Chinese Journal of Polar Research ›› 2024, Vol. 36 ›› Issue (3): 454-472.DOI: 10.13679/j.jdyj.20240041

Special Issue: 中国极地考察40周年

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The collection, research and prospect of Antarctic meteorites in China

XIA Zhipeng1, 2, YANG Dongliang1, WANG Xiaorui1, ZHANG Chuantong1, 2, CHEN Hongyi1, 3, MIAO Bingkui1, 2   

  1. 1 Institute of Meteorite and Planetary Material Research, Key laboratory of Planetary Geological Evolution, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin 541006, China; 
    2 Guangxi Key Laboratory of Hidden Metallic Ore Deposits Exploration, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin 541006, China;
    3 Collaborative Innovation Center for Exploration of Nonferrous Metal Deposits and Efficient Utilization of Resources in Guangxi, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin 541004, China
  • Received:2024-04-15 Revised:2024-05-15 Online:2024-09-30 Published:2024-09-30

Abstract: Meteorites are not only the link between the Earth and the universe, but also the key to unlocking the history of the solar system and exploring the evolution of the universe. As a key link between the Earth and the universe, meteorites are of great significance in revealing the history of the solar system and the evolution of the universe. Antarctica's unique geographical conditions and ice environment make it the region with the most meteorites found in the world.Antarctica's unique geographical and climatic conditions make it the region with the most meteorite discoveries in the world. Since the first meteorite-rich area was discovered in 1998 at Grove Mountain, China has collected 12,665 meteorites, ranking third in the global collection of Antarctic meteorites. This paper summarizes the history of meteorite discovery in Antarctica, reveals the uniqueness of meteorite concentration on the ice sheet, integrates the achievements of meteorite collection in Grove Mountain in China, and discusses the classification of meteorites and the latest research progress. While reviewing the achievements, challenges such as decreasing collection efficiency and limitation of enrichment area are also explored. Finally, in the face of the rapid development of planetary science and the good opportunity of the completion of China's Qinling Station, this paper puts forward some ideas for the future, including the establishment of an Antarctic meteorite investigation team, using Qinling Station and Zhongshan Station as logistical support bases, carrying out a comprehensive investigation of the TransAntarctic Mountains and Prince Charles Mountain meteorites, and strengthening the coordinated development of scientific research and science popularization of Antarctic meteorites.

Key words: Meteorite, collection and concentration area, Grove Mountains, Antarctica