Meteorite testing & identification
Is it a meteorite?
Gain certainty about what you found. Get your specimen tested by an expert.
Looks can be deceiving
Be Certain with Us
Each submitted specimen is examined by an expert who writes a clear conclusion about your specimen.
You’ll know exactly what you have.
Our testing follows the same meteorite science established by NASA, The Meteoritical Society, and the scientific meteoritics community.
What customers say
Bill Chapman
Sent in a meteorite I’d had for years. The report was clear, detailed, and actually explained why it was a meteorite! Fast turnaround too.
John Cutler
I was skeptical about mailing in a specimen for testing, but this was legit. Good communication, professional report. Exactly what I wanted.
Shin Chen
Good service
Kevin Hunold
I honestly had no idea what I had, and the testing answered it pretty definitively. Loved seeing the microscope pictures and actual measurements instead of just getting a yes/no.
How it works
Step-by-Step Process (for physical testing)
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1. Order online
Purchase the test. We email packing and shipping instructions.
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2. Mail your specimen
Use your own packaging and arrange tracked shipping, or add our $20 Shipping Kit for a box, packing material, and prepaid label.
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3. We examine it
Your specimen undergoes a battery of non-destructive testing including XRF elemental analysis.
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4. Receive your results
Your report arrives by email. Your specimen returns with tracking.
Normal turnaround: seven business days after delivery. Advanced analysis may take longer.
What you’ll receive
Your Findings Report sample
Specimen details, measurements, test results, and an explanation of the findings—all in the Findings Report.
Tap to enlarge the report
What your report may conclude
Terrestrial Origin
The evidence supports an Earth rock or manufactured material.
Meteorite
The evidence strongly favors a meteorite classification. And the next steps you can take.
A scientific classification is reported when the necessary evidence is available.
Your principal analyst
Justin Black, PhD
Justin Black is the Principal Analyst for Measured Matter. He holds a PhD in Astronomy and MS in Physics. His scientific training provides the foundation for evaluating specimens, interpreting data, and drawing scientific conclusions based on the evidence. Justin personally signs every Findings Report.
Before you order
Frequently Asked Questions
Which test service should I get?
Choose Photo Assessment ($10) if you want a quick expert opinion and guidance on whether further testing is worthwhile; the $10 is fully creditable toward Physical Testing.
Choose Physical Testing ($49) if you want your specimen directly examined and tested to determine whether the evidence supports a terrestrial or meteoritic origin.
Choose Meteorite Classification ($350) if you already believe you have a meteorite and want to determine its type and begin the path toward formal recognition.
Are you actually going to test it, or just look at it?
Yes—we physically examine and test your specimen. Every specimen undergoes X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis, bulk density measurement, magnetic susceptibility, microscopy, and physical examination. We also record its weight and dimensions. If the results suggest a credible stony meteorite candidate, we’ll contact you about additional laboratory analysis at no extra charge.
What exactly am I getting?
Scientific testing, a photo-documented Findings Report, and peace of mind knowing what exactly you have.
What if it turns out not to be a meteorite? Did I waste my money?
No. You’re paying for the testing and evidence—not for a positive result. Even if your specimen is terrestrial, you’ll have peace of mind and an evidence-based answer backed by test results and a signed Findings Report.
Who’s actually doing the testing?
Justin Black, PhD, serves as our Principal Analyst and personally reviews each specimen and Findings Report. He holds a PhD in Astronomy and MS in Physics.
Will the test damage my specimen?
No! No destructive testing is performed during the examination. Testing is performed only on accessible surfaces.
Will I get my specimen back, even if it’s not a meteorite?
Yes. Meteorite or not, your specimen is returned after testing. The return shipping back to you is included.
Can you send me a box and shipping label?
Yes. Choose the optional $20 Shipping Kit at checkout. We mail you a box, protective packing material, packing instructions, and a prepaid shipping label to our lab. The price includes delivery of the kit to your U.S. address and shipping your specimen to us. Once it arrives, pack your specimen, attach the label, and drop it off with the carrier shown on the label. No printer needed. Standard specimen limits apply; we will confirm packing requirements before sending the kit.
You can also use your own packaging and arrange shipping to us. Tracked return shipping after testing is included either way.
How long will it take?
Your testing will be finished within seven business days after your specimen arrives.
Will you explain why, or just tell me yes or no?
Your report explains in-depth the evidence behind the findings—not just the conclusion. The report also includes explanations of each test performed.
Can I see what the report looks like before I order?
Yes. You can view a sample Findings Report before purchasing.
Ready to have your specimen examined?
One specimen. A signed Findings Report. Tracked U.S. return included.