To get meteorites classified, start by contacting a reputable institution or laboratory specializing in meteoritics, such as a university's earth and planetary sciences department or a professional organization like the Meteoritical Society. These institutions have the expertise and equipment necessary for proper classification.
First, ensure the specimen is a genuine meteorite. Common indicators include a fusion crust, regmaglypts, and a high density. If uncertain, consult a local geologist or a meteorite expert for preliminary identification.
Once confirmed, submit a sample to a laboratory for analysis. The lab will conduct a series of tests, including petrographic analysis, electron microprobe analysis, and isotopic studies, to determine the meteorite's mineral composition, structure, and origin. These tests help classify the meteorite into one of the established groups, such as chondrites, achondrites, or iron meteorites.
After analysis, the results are submitted to the Meteoritical Society's Nomenclature Committee for official classification and naming. This process involves peer review and ensures the meteorite is added to the Meteoritical Bulletin Database, a comprehensive record of all recognized meteorites.
Throughout this process, maintain detailed records of the meteorite's discovery location, circumstances, and any initial observations. This information is crucial for scientific documentation and enhances the meteorite's research value.
For further guidance, refer to academic publications like Meteorites and Their Parent Planets by Harry Y. McSween or consult industry journals such as Meteoritics & Planetary Science. These resources provide in-depth insights into meteorite classification and the latest research in the field.
By following these steps, you ensure your meteorite is accurately classified, contributing valuable data to the scientific community and enhancing our understanding of the solar system's history.
