You Can Search For Black Gold
By Bill Hirst
Imagine holding a piece of the cosmos in your hand, a tangible remnant of the early solar system, forged in the heart of a dying star and hurtling through space for millennia before landing on Earth. These celestial wanderers, known as meteorites, are more than just rocks; they are time capsules, offering invaluable insights into the formation of planets, the building blocks of life, and the very history of our universe. And, surprisingly, the opportunity to find one may be closer than you think. Some even refer to them as black gold, a testament to their rarity and scientific value.
Each year, an estimated tens of thousands of meteorites grace our planet with their presence, scattering across continents and oceans. While most burn up in the atmosphere as brilliant shooting stars, some survive the fiery descent, impacting the Earth’s surface as dark, often magnetic, stones. For those fortunate enough to discover them, these meteorites can be worth a considerable sum, sometimes fetching prices exceeding that of gold. This potential reward, coupled with the thrill of discovery, has fueled the passion of meteorite hunters worldwide, individuals driven by a love of science, a thirst for adventure, and the tantalizing prospect of uncovering a piece of black gold.
The allure of finding a meteorite is not merely about monetary gain. It’s about connecting with something ancient and extraordinary, a piece of cosmic history that has travelled billions of miles to reach our world. The experience can be likened to stepping into the Twilight Zone, venturing into a realm where the ordinary meets the extraordinary, and the boundaries of our understanding are stretched. Imagine yourself, not as a mere earthling, but as a cosmic explorer, sifting through terrestrial rocks in search of your own piece of black gold.
For those seeking an unconventional adventure, a journey beyond the typical vacation experience, the search for meteorites offers an unparalleled opportunity. While the thought of hunting for these space rocks might conjure images of bone-chilling expeditions to the Antarctic, where temperatures plummet to 50 below zero Fahrenheit and winds howl at 50 miles per hour, the reality is that meteorites fall everywhere. The challenge lies not in enduring extreme conditions, but in knowing where to look, understanding the geological processes that concentrate these cosmic treasures, and employing the right techniques to distinguish them from ordinary terrestrial rocks. The pursuit of black gold is a test of patience, observation, and a little bit of luck.
The key to successful meteorite hunting lies in targeting environments where the chances of finding these space rocks are maximized. Deserts, with their arid climates and sparse vegetation, are particularly promising locations. Over centuries, deserts experience minimal weathering, allowing meteorites to remain relatively undisturbed on the surface. In these landscapes, the contrast between the dark, often fusion-crusted meteorites and the lighter-colored desert rocks makes them easier to spot. New Mexico, with its expansive Chihuahuan Desert, presents a compelling destination for aspiring meteorite hunters. Here, amidst trillions of terrestrial rocks, lies the potential to unearth a piece of black gold.
Professional meteorite hunters employ a variety of tools and techniques to aid in their search. Metal detectors are a common and effective method for locating ferrous meteorites, those containing iron. These detectors emit a constant hum, which intensifies as they pass over a metallic object. However, not all meteorites are ferrous, and many terrestrial rocks contain iron, leading to false positives. Therefore, distinguishing between a genuine meteorite and a "hot rock" requires concentration, experience, and a discerning eye.
While metal detectors can be invaluable, relying solely on them can limit your chances of success. Many meteorites, particularly those that are non-ferrous or heavily weathered, may not trigger a metal detector. In these cases, the age-old method of "shoe-leather foot searching" becomes essential. This involves meticulously scanning the ground, carefully examining rocks for telltale signs of a meteorite, such as a dark fusion crust, regmaglypts (thumbprint-like depressions), and a higher density than surrounding rocks. The quest for black gold often requires a combination of technology and keen observation.
The climate in the Truth or Consequences area of New Mexico is generally predictable, making it an ideal location for meteorite hunting. Rainfall is scarce, averaging only 10 inches per year, so there’s little need for rain gear. Winters are mild, with temperatures rarely dipping below 10 degrees Fahrenheit for extended periods. Clear skies and gentle breezes are the norm, creating comfortable conditions for long days of searching. The pleasant weather allows hunters to focus on the task at hand, increasing their chances of finding a valuable piece of black gold.
Finding a meteorite is not merely about stumbling upon a rare rock; it’s about embarking on an adventure, connecting with the cosmos, and contributing to our understanding of the universe. It’s a chance to hold a piece of history in your hand, a relic from the dawn of the solar system. So, the next time you’re seeking an unusual and rewarding experience, consider the possibility of searching for black gold in the deserts of New Mexico. You might just find yourself on an unforgettable journey, one that takes you beyond the boundaries of our world and into the realm of cosmic discovery.
©2005 Bill Hirst, updated February 2024.