How to Hunt Meteorites on Public Land

Locate public land where meteorites have been known to be found, or where you suspect meteorites have landed. Local property and parcel maps can be accessed from a tax accessors office or a state records department. These maps will give you visual data that you can use to find public lands and show you where private property lines exist.

Walk lightly on the lands, and try not to destroy or disturb any natural habitats or tender vegetation. Treat the land as if it was your own, and leave it the same way you found it. Pay attention to any posted property signs or fencing–and do not cross onto private land without permission from the landowners.

Purchase a metal detector suitable for hunting meteorites. A good meteorite metal detector will have a depth multiplier, variable settings for specific metals, so they can penetrate deeper than others and cover a wider area. An ideal style of detector will be calibrated to find large iron substances–and it will penetrate deep.

Use the metal detector to hunt for the meteorites. This will enhance your chance of success because the meteorites are heavy in iron. Ensure that you&'ve read the instructions for your specific metal detector–set the detector to the appropriate setting such as the "relic" position, or a specific iron setting. Walk slowly and pay attention to your detector readings.

Dig a hole with a small shovel when you&'ve found a possible meteorite location via your detector. Ensure that you put the dirt back in the hole after you&'ve retrieved the meteorite–or if you didn&'t find one.

Clean the meteorite off. Use a small brush to dust off any dirt or debris, then place the meteorite in a satchel or haversack, whichever you prefer. This will keep you from having to lug around a heavy piece of iron–and dusting it off will keep you from carrying a bunch of dirt as well.