Multipurpose Approaches for Mapping and Analyzing Meteorites

The oldest records of the solar system formation are stored within meteorites and unfold once analyzed. In this paper, we would like to utilize the meteorite collection at the Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences, and Technology (SAASST) to map the meteorite locations' findings. This would help expand the International Meteor Organization's (IMO) database of meteorite fall sites, ultimately narrowing down future search areas for meteorite hunters. Moreover, samples from the collection are used by university students to observe and comprehend the differences between meteorite and terrestrial rocks, in addition to understanding their elemental and chemical composition. Along with the Master of Science program in Space Sciences and Astronomy offered by the University of Sharjah, graduate students are encouraged to incorporate meteorite-related analysis using modern techniques such as X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD). The SAASST meteorite collection also raises awareness among the general public regarding meteorites and their scientific value. In addition, the UAE Meteor Monitoring Network at SAASST would help increase the collection by detecting meteors and observing their possible landing location. This research suggests that the field of meteorites is a critical aspect of astronomy that should be emphasized more, especially in the Gulf region. Our meteorite collection contributes to developing an interest in astronomy that engages the public and students to explore the solar system's formation.