For the curious adventurer who loves geological puzzles and the thrill of discovery.
For the curious adventurer who loves geological puzzles and the thrill of discovery.
Every hobby is defined by a set of core characteristics. Understanding these traits, from the energy it requires to the environment it thrives in, helps you find an activity that truly resonates with your personal style.
Primarily a solitary activity, but with communities available to share your results.
Keeps you active and on your feet, but isn't a full-blown workout.
This hobby takes you deep into the great outdoors, far from civilization.
Leans heavily towards logical and technical skills, involving precision, logic, and structured problem-solving.
Requires a solid mix of both mental engagement and physical coordination.
Offers both tangible, useful outcomes and a great deal of personal enjoyment.
Based on 24 community votes.
Your journey starts here. Follow these steps to get started with Meteorite Hunting.
Learn to distinguish meteorites from common terrestrial rocks. Focus on understanding the characteristics of iron, stony, and stony-iron meteorites, including their appearance, density, and magnetic properties.
Research areas with a high probability of meteorite falls, such as deserts, impact craters, or regions with minimal geological activity that might obscure finds. Consider recent documented falls for fresh material.
Gather essential gear like a strong magnet, a good magnifying glass or loupe, a sturdy shovel or trowel, collection bags, and a GPS device. Comfortable hiking boots and weather-appropriate clothing are also crucial.
Develop your observational skills by looking for specific features like fusion crust, regmaglypts (thumbprints), and a metallic interior. Compare suspect rocks to known meteorite samples whenever possible.
Many common rocks, like slag or hematite, can resemble meteorites. Thoroughly study and practice distinguishing features to avoid false positives.
Finding a meteorite is rare. Many hunters go years without a confirmed find. Consistent effort and exploring new locations are key to eventual success.
Newly found meteorites, especially iron types, can rust if not handled and stored correctly. Use appropriate containers and avoid unnecessary cleaning that could damage the fusion crust.
Not sure about Meteorite Hunting? Your next passion might be just a click away.
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Dive deeper with these community-recommended websites, guides, and forums.
The premier international organization for meteorite science, offering resources and a database of known falls.
A comprehensive mineral database that can assist in differentiating meteorites from terrestrial minerals.
Visual guides and field experiences from other meteorite hunters can provide practical tips and inspiration.
The thin, often glassy or matte black outer layer formed when a meteorite melts during atmospheric entry.
Depressions or thumbprint-like indentations on the surface of a meteorite, caused by aerodynamic ablation.
A type of meteorite composed primarily of iron and nickel.
The most common type of stony meteorite, characterized by small, spherical grains called chondrules.
