Meteorites weathering under a variety of conditions in the Lut Desert

Somayeh Zahabnazouri 

Climate, topography, and geomorphology are fundamental terrestrial environmental factors that play a significant role in shaping rock weathering processes across Earth's surface. These elements are particularly crucial when studying meteorite weathering, as they dictate the microenvironmental conditions that influence both physical and chemical alterations over time. Despite extensive research on meteorite preservation, limited studies have focused on the detailed weathering mechanisms operating in hyper-arid environments, where extreme conditions accelerate or slow down degradation. This study investigates the impact of diverse weathering conditions on H5-type meteorites in the Lut Desert, one of the hottest and driest regions on Earth. By examining physical and chemical weathering processes, we identify key environmental factors that control meteorite degradation and preservation. Our findings highlight three dominant weathering mechanisms that actively shape meteorite surfaces in this hyper-arid setting: salt weathering, temperature-induced mechanical stress, and wind abrasion. These processes vary in intensity depending on the microenvironment in which the meteorites are situated. Meteorite fragments placed in distinct geomorphic settings—including sandy terrain, salt-encrusted surfaces, and lag gravel plains—exhibit differential weathering rates. While meteorites buried in sand are better protected from erosional forces and chemical alterations, those exposed to salt-rich environments and intense aeolian activity experience accelerated deterioration. Prolonged exposure to these harsh conditions results in the loss of surface textures, progressive fragmentation, and, ultimately, the complete disintegration of meteorite material. The findings of this study enhance our understanding of meteorite lifespans in extreme desert environments, offering valuable insights into the preservation potential of extraterrestrial materials on Earth. Additionally, by examining the interplay between meteorite weathering and desert geomorphology, this research contributes to broader discussions on terrestrial analogs for planetary surfaces, as well as the implications for meteorite recovery and classification in arid landscapes.