Residents of Staffordshire are being urged to be vigilant for meteorite fragments following a suspected meteorite landing in the county. A bright fireball, observed over the Midlands in the early hours of May 6, is believed to have dropped a meteorite in the vicinity of Blythe Bridge and Uttoxeter, according to the UK Fireball Alliance (UKFAll).
Scientists have advised those who find potential meteorite fragments not to touch them with bare hands to prevent contamination. Teams of researchers from various universities have already scoured fields around Blythe Bridge and Uttoxeter but have yet to locate any fragments.
UKFAll estimates that approximately 500 grams (1.1 pounds) of meteorite landed southeast of Stoke-on-Trent. The fragments are expected to be 5-10 centimetres (2-4 inches) wide, black or brown in color, and may possess a glassy outer surface.
Dr Ashley King expressed hope that local residents or workers might discover the meteorite. However, he cautioned against taking unnecessary risks or trespassing in restricted areas during the search.
“We don’t want anyone taking risks looking for it or going into areas where you shouldn’t,” Dr. King stated.
Richard Baggaley, chairman of a greenhouse factory in Cresswell—located in the search area—reported that scientists from the University of Glasgow requested access to his land following the meteor sighting.
“They were very excited. We were just amazed that such a thing could happen in our little corner of Staffordshire,” Mr Baggaley remarked.
Individuals who believe they have found the meteorite are encouraged to contact UKFAll or the Natural History Museum. A spokesperson for UKFAll reiterated the importance of not touching the rock with bare hands to avoid contamination. They recommended using aluminium foil or a clean, dry sandwich bag to handle the meteorite.
The search continues with the hope that local cooperation will lead to the discovery of this extraordinary celestial fragment.
