meteoriticist
/ˌmiːtiəˈrɪtɪsɪst/
Definition
A scientist who specializes in the study, classification, and analysis of meteorites and their physical and chemical properties.
Etymology
Derived from the Greek 'meteōron' (phenomenon in the sky) combined with the suffix '-ist' denoting a person who performs a specific activity. It is a modern professional term formed by appending these roots to describe a specific field of planetary science.
In the news
In the article, a meteoriticist led the analysis of the Hillsborough meteorite fragments, identifying unique organic compounds and classifying the rock's mineral composition. This expert role is essential for determining the origins of space rocks that land on Earth.
Meteorite that crashed through New Jersey house could hold the clues to life's origins
Read the full article ↗Space