Telescope Advisor Logo Telescope Advisor
A brilliant meteor streaking through Earth's atmosphere as seen from the International Space Station — space rocks entering our atmosphere can become meteorites if they reach the ground

Science Guide · Meteorites · Ohio

Meteorites in Ohio: Complete Guide — Falls, Finds, and How to Identify Space Rocks

Meteorites — rocks from space that survive the journey through Earth's atmosphere — have been falling on Ohio for millions of years. The state has a rich history of documented meteorite falls, from the famous New Concord meteorite of 1860 to more recent finds. This guide covers Ohio's meteorite history, how to identify potential meteorites, what to do if you find one, and the fascinating science behind these messengers from the cosmos.

Known falls12 confirmed in Ohio
Most famousNew Concord (1860)
Types foundStony, iron, stony-iron
Best huntingPlowed fields & creek beds
By Elena Reyes Published: Updated: Reviewed & approved by Juhi Sahni, Senior Editor Editorial Standards
Elena Reyes — Senior Science Editor

Elena Reyes

Senior Science Editor

Covers NASA missions, space science discoveries, and astronomical events for Telescope Advisor. Translates complex astrophysical research into practical insights for backyard observers. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area.

What Is a Meteorite?

A meteorite is a solid piece of debris from an object such as a comet, asteroid, or meteoroid that originates in outer space and survives its passage through Earth's atmosphere to reach the ground. Before entering the atmosphere, these objects are called meteoroids. While streaking through the sky, they produce a bright trail of light — a meteor or shooting star. Only if a piece reaches the ground does it earn the name meteorite.

Meteorites come in three main types: stony meteorites (the most common, making up about 94% of all falls), iron meteorites (about 5%, mostly composed of iron-nickel alloy), and stony-iron meteorites (the rarest, about 1%). Each type tells a different story about the formation of our solar system. Stony meteorites come from the crusts of asteroids, iron meteorites from their cores, and stony-irons from the boundary between the two.

A composite image of meteor shower — meteors streaking across the night sky, some of which may produce meteorites if they survive atmospheric passage
Meteors and Meteorites — Most meteors burn up completely in the atmosphere. Only the largest and densest meteoroids survive to become meteorites. Ohio's 12 confirmed meteorites provide valuable scientific samples. Credit: NASA.

Notable Meteorites Found in Ohio

Ohio has 12 confirmed meteorite falls and finds, ranging from the 19th century to modern times. Here are the most notable:

NameYearTypeWeightLocationNotes
New Concord1860Stony (L6)~230 kg totalNew Concord (eastern OH)Famous witnessed fall; fragments across museums
Cincinnati1844 (found)Iron~30 kgCincinnati areaOne of Ohio's oldest documented finds
Dayton1890 (found)Iron~20 kgDayton areaClassic octahedrite iron meteorite
Licking County1925 (found)Stony (H5)~8 kgLicking CountyHigh-iron chondrite
Pleasant Grove1990 (found)Stony~3 kgMuskingum CountyModern find by a farmer

How to Identify a Meteorite

If you think you have found a meteorite, here are the key characteristics to check:

  • Fusion crust: A thin, dark, glassy coating on the outside, formed by melting during atmospheric passage.
  • Density: Meteorites are denser than most Earth rocks — they feel heavy for their size.
  • Magnetism: Most meteorites contain iron and will attract a magnet.
  • Shape: Meteorites are usually irregular but often have rounded edges. They are not perfectly round.
  • No bubbles or vesicles: Unlike volcanic rocks, meteorites do not have gas bubbles.
  • Regmaglypts: Thumbprint-like depressions on the surface caused by ablation.

Important warning: Most "meteorites" people find are actually meteor-wrongs — common Earth rocks that look unusual. The best way to confirm a potential meteorite is to contact the geology department at a local university or the Smithsonian Institution. Do not assume a rock is a meteorite just because it is heavy and dark.

Where to Look for Meteorites in Ohio

The best places to search for meteorites in Ohio are plowed farm fields, creek beds, and other open areas where the ground is regularly exposed. Meteorites are easiest to spot on light-coloured surfaces like limestone or snow. Private land requires the owner's permission. Public lands like state parks and national forests have restrictions on collecting meteorites — check local regulations before searching. The Meteoritical Society's database (meteoriticalsociety.org) provides detailed information about confirmed meteorites and can help guide searches.

When searching for meteorites, the most important tool is a strong magnet — most meteorites contain enough iron to attract a magnet. A metal detector can also be useful, especially for iron meteorites buried below the surface. Walk in a systematic grid pattern, scanning the ground carefully. Meteorites are typically darker than the surrounding rocks and may have a smooth, rounded shape with a dark fusion crust. Keep in mind that meteorite hunting requires patience — you may search for many hours without finding anything. The thrill of discovery, however, makes it all worthwhile.

What to Do If You Find a Meteorite

If you find a rock that you suspect is a meteorite, here is the proper procedure: (1) Do not clean it — the fusion crust and any attached soil may contain valuable scientific information. (2) Handle it as little as possible, ideally with clean gloves. (3) Photograph it in place before moving it, noting the exact location (GPS coordinates are ideal). (4) Place it in a clean plastic bag or container. (5) Contact a professional for identification — the geology department at Ohio State University, the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, or the Smithsonian Institution can help.

If you find a meteorite on your own land, you own it. Meteorites found on public land are subject to different rules — on federal land, meteorites are generally considered government property and must be reported. On state-owned land, rules vary. Always verify regulations before collecting. A confirmed meteorite find is a significant scientific discovery — researchers will want to study it to learn about the early solar system, and it may also have monetary value depending on its type and condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have meteorites been found in Ohio?

Yes, Ohio has 12 confirmed meteorites, including the famous New Concord fall of 1860, the Cincinnati iron meteorite, and several others found across the state.

How can I tell if I found a meteorite in Ohio?

Check for a dark fusion crust, high density, magnetism, and no gas bubbles. Most suspected meteorites are actually Earth rocks (meteor-wrongs). Contact a university geology department for confirmation.

Where can I find meteorites in Ohio?

Plowed farm fields, creek beds, and exposed limestone areas are the best places. Always get landowner permission on private property and check regulations on public lands.

What is the most famous meteorite from Ohio?

The New Concord meteorite, which fell on May 1, 1860, in southeastern Ohio. Multiple fragments totaling over 230 kg were recovered, and it is one of the best-documented meteorite falls in US history.

Are Ohio meteorites valuable?

Meteorite values vary widely based on type, size, and rarity. Common stony meteorites sell for $1–5 per gram, while rare types can fetch much more. Scientific documentation adds value.

What types of meteorites are found in Ohio?

Ohio has produced all three main types: stony meteorites (chondrites like New Concord), iron meteorites (like Cincinnati and Dayton), and stony-iron varieties.