MICROMETEORITES AND MICROMETEOR-WRONGS

Millions of micrometeorites hit the Earth every day and provide us with samples from non-terrestrial parent bodies (e.g., meteoroids, asteroids, and cometary material). But they also present an opportunity to engage the next generation of scientists. Several studies over the last ten years in the field of micrometeorites have provided a wealth of information on the collection techniques and identification of micrometeorites in urban settings. Adopting similar methods, we have begun collecting micrometeorites as well as natural and man-made objects of a similar size and morphology to develop a database of micrometeorites and micrometeor-wrongs. Specifically, this work includes the gathering of samples using magnets on flat rooftops, identifying potential micrometeorites samples using a binocular microscope, and then evaluating those samples using a scanning electron microscope. With this and the strong teaching program at UWRF, our goal is to utilize these techniques and develop a database to facilitate interest in the STEM fields and interaction between primary, secondary, and post-secondary students and educators. By developing early relationships with future K-12 instructors as well as providing resources and free instrument access, we hope that when they have their own classrooms that they will collect samples with their students and submit several each year for analysis at UWRF. This will generate interest in STEM, increase interaction between primary/secondary education instructors and post-secondary education scholars and researchers, as well as contribute to the expansion of the database. Initial progress report to be presented at conference.