GGE-UROP PROJECT FORM

Project Title Keele:Stardust

Short DescriptionEver wanted to find a meteorite? Well this is your

chance! This project is a hunt for, and recording of, meteorites from Keele Campus.

Supervisors Name Steven Rogers and Adam Jeffery

Supervisors Email s.l.rogers@keele.ac.uk

Brief description

Meteorites are pieces of space debris that survive the journey through our atmosphere and reach the surface

of a planet or moon. Generally originating from comets, asteroids or meteoroids; they are formed of metallic and rocky material. The majority of debris that enters Earth’s atmosphere breaks up due to the

intense friction, pressure and chemical changes it experiences, making meteor falls of large meteorites relatively uncommon. So, to find meteorites on Keele

Campus we need to think differently; we need to think small! Much more abundant than their larger

counterparts (they range from 50 µm to 2 mm), micrometeorites can be found across the Earth’s

surface. This project will collect this cosmic dust from Keele Campus, prepare it, and record it. Ultimately the findings will be disseminated in a visual format that is

accessible and informative.

What will the outcomes of the project be?

To collect and record the occurrence of micrometeorites on Keele Campus, and ultimately

produce visually spectacular forms of display of the finds.

The School of Geography, Geology and the Environment, Keele. Page 1

What tasks will the student undertake?

Collecting and separating material from around campus. To separate meteorites from other fine

material a strong magnet will be used. Other, similar objects (that are non-magnetic i.e. industrial glass globules), will be identified using a low powered

microscope. The student will need learn to identify meteorites and categorise the finds. Images will be

take using a microscope/camera set-up and these will be displayed in an informative, visually impactive and

scientifically informative manner.

What skills, knowledge or experience will the student

need?None – this project could be undertaken by any student

What is the “module result average” threshold for this

project? N/A

What further skills will be developed as a result of the

placement?Science dissemination. Graphic design.

Start DateWhen the student is available – could begin over

summer if the student is local. Could work through semester time too.

End Date This project should be finished over a semester

Hours of work 10-15 hrs total

Place of work On Campus, some work could be completed at home

Access to FacilitiesAccess to microscopy lab and sample prep space will be

required. The student will get experience using low powered microscopy and vector graphic software.

Who will provide the student’s induction?

Supervisors

The School of Geography, Geology and the Environment, Keele. Page 2

Who will provide regular progress reviews and how

often?Supervisors

Is there a second Supervisor? Please provide name.

N/A

Other team members, if any. N/A

Project Expenses No funding – shouldn’t need any!

If you are interested in undertaking this project please submit a cover letter and CV to the GGE-UROP officer

gge.urop@keele.ac.uk (see “For Students” on the GGE-UROP webpage).

The School of Geography, Geology and the Environment, Keele. Page 3