Lunar and Martian meteorites

Abstract

Meteorites are material from the times of the formation of the solar system. Their study gives us information of the conditions of the early solar system, which is otherwise very difficult to obtain. Some meteorites tell us about the compositions of asteroid classes they correspond to. Martian meteorites are the only samples of the Martian terrain we have on Earth, at least until a probe or a manned flight brings back some rocks.

I will first explain a little background information about meteorites in general. Then I will talk about different meteorite types and their numerous subtypes. Then I will go on to Martian meteorites and tell about their different classes, and how their origins were determined. After that I will talk about classification and recognition of lunar meteorites. Finally I explain how the ejection from Mars and Moon has been studied using simulations, and what the impact conditions must be to launch material into orbit.