This presentation is open to all ASSA members and the general public.

Title: Pallasite Meteorites: A Rare Glimpse into Planetary Formation

Speaker: Thomas Burke, Earth Sciences Department, The University of Adelaide

Abstract: Pallasite meteorites are among the rarest and most finite meteorites discovered on Earth, yet they represent some of our only insights into the evolution of planets during the early solar system. With a focus on geochronology, this talk discusses how we can glean information from these four and a half billion-year-old meteorites, presents different ideas surrounding the process of their formation, and highlights ongoing research of the newly developed technique for dating them. Furthermore, we shall talk about how the results of this research have implications for modern-day space exploration.

Note, Thomas will be providing a number of meteorites for audience members to inspect.

Bio: Thomas Burke is an early career scientist and a first year PhD student with a passion for space research. Thomas graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Advanced) in 2020 majoring in Geology, and then completed his Honours degree throughout 2021. Thomas’ Honours degree investigated the geochronology of the early solar system where he focussed on applying a new technique for determining the age of several pallasite meteorites. Commencing his PhD in March of 2022, Thomas aims to expand this research to a wide array of meteorites and investigate early planetary evolution, as well as the potential for applying this technique for rover based remote exploration on Mars.

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Notes:

• Tickets are only required to attend in-person.
• The presentation will be streamed live and recorded on YouTube. A ticket is not required to watch online.
• Event URL and in-person location can be found at the bottom of the EventBrite registration confirmation email.
• For more event information, visit: https://www.assa.org.au/events/meetings/general-meeting-june-2022/