Activity Overview
On the Texas Christian University campus, find the Oscar E. Monnig Meteorite Collection in the Sid Richardson Science Building and marvel at the impressive collection of these ancient rocks. The collection contains 1700 meteorites and displays the most remarkable 10% in the Gallery.
Interactive experiences with the meteorites are available, such as holding "a piece of the solar system in your hand" and "creating your own terrestrial impact crater."
The information provided in the Gallery's exhibits also helps you learn how to identify meteorites and unlock many of their mysteries, i.e. where they came from, how they reached earth, and what they can tell us about the solar system.
Things to Do
- Touch a piece of rock that once was on Mars.
- Check the calendar for interesting lectures and classes, such as a session that allows you to peer through telescopes provided by TCU's Department of Physics and Astronomy and see multiple planets and stars.
- Pick up an audio wand for a self-guided tour of the facility.
- Formal tours are also available and focus on the following: sources of meteorites, meteorite facts and terms, history of meteoritics, recognition of meteorites, hunting for meteorites, classification of meteorites, impact craters, and Texas meteorites.
Oscar E. Monnig Meteorite Gallery Insider Tips
- The Gallery is closed for all TCU holidays.
- Metered parking spots are available outside the building, and there is also a TCU visitors' parking lot. Passes for the visitors' lot must be picked up in advance from the TCU police station.
