GPS recording
GPS recording means noting the exact position where a meteorite is found, which makes it far more useful to science.
When you find a possible meteorite, record its position before you pick it up. Most mobile phones can show your latitude and longitude, or you can use a dedicated GPS device. Write down the coordinates, the date and time, and take photographs of the stone exactly as you found it, with something to show scale.
These records matter. Scientists can use find locations to map a strewn field, reconstruct the fall and calculate the meteoroid's orbit. For fresh falls, the time between landing and recovery affects how much the stone has weathered, which changes some measurements. A meteorite with good find records is more valuable to science and to collectors than one with none.
Try not to touch the stone with bare hands if it is a fresh fall: use a clean plastic bag or aluminium foil to lift it. Do not wash or magnet-test it more than necessary. Then contact a museum or meteorite expert as soon as you can.
Related terms
Level: Beginner Ages 7 and up