Britons are being called upon to become cosmic treasure hunters following the spectacular descent of a meteorite over the UK last week. Experts believe valuable fragments from the fireball are scattered across the ground, waiting to be discovered.
The dazzling event, which illuminated evening skies on Wednesday, September 15th, was captured by numerous doorbell cams, dashcams, and the UK's Fireball Alliance camera network. The data pinpointed the space rock's trajectory, concluding its journey over southern Scotland or northern England.
A Rare Opportunity for Discovery
Dr. Ashley King from the Natural History Museum's Planetary Materials Group is leading the charge. He emphasises the immense scientific value of these fragments, stating that fresh meteorites offer an unparalleled glimpse into the formation of our solar system over 4.5 billion years ago.
"This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance," Dr. King said. "Recovering these meteorites would be equivalent to a free sample return mission from space. The data we can gather is absolutely priceless."
How to Hunt for Space Rocks
If you're in the area, here's what to look for:
- Appearance: The fragments will likely be small, black or dark brown, and have a glossy 'fusion crust' from their fiery descent.
- Location: Check open areas, footpaths, and fields. They may be easier to spot against light-coloured surfaces or in areas without dense vegetation.
- What to Do: If you find a suspect rock, do not use a magnet. Carefully photograph it in place, note the location, collect it in aluminium foil or a clean bag, and report it to the UK Meteor Observation Network immediately.
The Precedent: The Winchcombe Meteorite
The successful recovery of the Winchcombe meteorite in 2021 demonstrates the power of public involvement. Fragments were found on a driveway and a nearby sheep field, leading to groundbreaking research. Scientists are hopeful for a similar success story, potentially adding a new named meteorite to the UK's collection.
So, if you're out for a walk in the border regions, keep your eyes on the ground—you might just stumble upon a piece of another world.
