Metal Detecting for Meteorites: The Ultimate Guide to Finding Space Rocks

Metal detecting for meteorites is a fascinating pursuit that combines the thrill of treasure hunting with the wonder of space exploration.

As we enter 2025, this hobby continues to captivate both amateur enthusiasts and seasoned professionals.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to embark on your meteorite hunting adventure, from selecting the right equipment to understanding the potential value of your finds.

 

Why Hunt for Meteorites?

Meteorites are fragments of rock or metal that have survived their fiery journey through Earth's atmosphere from outer space. These celestial visitors offer a unique glimpse into the composition of our solar system and can be valuable for both scientific research and collectors.

Metal detecting for meteorites allows you to:

1. Contribute to scientific knowledge
2. Build a personal collection of rare specimens
3. Potentially discover valuable finds
4. Enjoy outdoor exploration and adventure

 

Choosing the Right Metal Detector for Meteorite Hunting

Not all metal detectors are created equal when it comes to finding meteorites. Here are some key features to look for:

1. High operating frequency (15 kHz or higher)
2. Good ground balancing capabilities
3. Specialized gold prospecting modes
4. Weatherproof design for harsh conditions

Some popular metal detectors for meteorite hunting include:

• Minelab GPZ 7000 or GPX 6000
• Fisher Gold Bug
• Tesoro Vaquero

 

Essential Equipment for Meteorite Hunting

In addition to your metal detector, you'll need:

1. A strong neodymium magnet on a stick
2. GPS device for marking locations
3. Protective gear (hat, sunscreen, sturdy boots)
4. Plenty of water and snacks
5. First aid kit
6. Camera for documenting finds

 

Best Locations for Metal Detecting Meteorites

 

 

While meteorites can fall anywhere on Earth, some locations are more conducive to successful hunting:

1. Deserts

Arid environments like the Mojave Desert in California or the Sahara in North Africa are ideal for several reasons:

• Minimal vegetation for easier visual spotting
• Slow weathering process preserves meteorites
• Often flat terrain for easier detecting

2. Dry Lake Beds

Places like the Great Salt Lake Desert in Utah offer excellent hunting grounds :

• Flat, open areas for easy scanning
• Contrasting surface for visual identification
• Potential for preserved meteorites

3. Known Strewn Fields

Strewn fields are areas where multiple meteorites from a single fall have been found . Famous examples include:

• Gold Basin, Arizona
• Henbury, Australia
• Sikhote-Alin, Russia

4. Antarctica

While not accessible to most hobbyists, Antarctica is a prime location for scientific meteorite expeditions due to its preserving conditions and dark meteorites contrasting against the white ice .

 

Techniques for Successful Meteorite Detecting

1. Research historical meteorite falls in your chosen area
2. Use a grid search pattern for thorough coverage
3. Combine metal detecting with visual inspection
4. Pay attention to subtle signals, as meteorites can produce faint tones
5. Use your magnet stick to test potential finds

 

Identifying Meteorites

When you get a signal, look for these characteristics:

1. Fusion crust: A dark, often glossy outer layer
2. Regmaglypts: Thumb-print like indentations on the surface
3. Magnetic properties: Most meteorites will stick to a strong magnet
4. Density: Meteorites are often heavier than Earth rocks of similar size

 

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Before you start metal detecting for meteorites, be aware of the legal landscape:

1. In the United States, meteorites found on private property belong to the landowner
2. Public lands may have restrictions or require permits for meteorite hunting
3. Some countries have laws claiming all meteorites as state property

Always obtain permission before detecting on private land and check local regulations for public areas.

 

The Value of Meteorites

 

The potential value of meteorites can vary widely based on several factors:

Common Meteorites

• Ordinary chondrites: $0.50 to $5 per gram
• Witnessed falls (e.g., Gao-Guenie): $1.50 per gram
• Campo del Cielo iron meteorite: About $400 for a one-kilogram specimen

Rare and Valuable Meteorites

• Lunar and Martian meteorites: $1,000 per gram or more
• Pallasites (stony-iron meteorites): $20 to $40 per gram for prepared slices
• Tatahouine diogenite: Around $50 per gram for prime specimens

Factors Influencing Price

1. Rarity: Scarcer types like lunar and Martian meteorites are more valuable
2. Size: Larger specimens generally fetch higher prices
3. Condition: Well-preserved meteorites with fusion crust or regmaglypts are more desirable
4. Scientific significance: Meteorites offering unique insights into solar system formation are highly valued
5. Provenance: Specimens with documented history or from famous collections can be more valuable

Notable Sales

• The Fukang meteorite: Considered one of the most expensive meteorites ever sold
• Lunar meteorites: Some have sold for up to $40,000 per gram
• High-end specimens: Prices can range from $2,000 to over $100,000 for rare or large pieces

 

Environmental Responsibility

As a responsible meteorite hunter, always:

1. Fill in any holes you dig
2. Remove any trash you find during your searches
3. Respect wildlife and vegetation
4. Stay on designated paths when possible

 

Reporting and Preserving Your Finds

If you believe you've found a meteorite:

1. Document the location with GPS coordinates
2. Take clear photographs of the specimen in situ
3. Handle the meteorite with clean hands or gloves to avoid contamination
4. Consider reporting significant finds to local universities or museums for scientific study

  

Conclusion: The Thrill of the Hunt

Metal detecting for meteorites offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, scientific discovery, and the potential for valuable finds. While the monetary value of meteorites can be significant, the true worth of these cosmic visitors lies in their scientific importance and the connection they provide to the vast expanse of our solar system.

Remember, successful meteorite hunting requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to learn. Each time you head out with your metal detector, you're embarking on a journey that connects you to the ancient history of our planet and the mysteries of space.

So, grab your detector, pack your gear, and set out to explore. 

Who knows? Your next sweep might just uncover a piece of cosmic history worth its weight in gold – or perhaps even more.

Happy hunting!