Interview given to Nikos Apostolopoulos for the magazine Unlocking the Truth 2/2020
How many of you know that there is a Greek Meteorite Museum, and that it is located just 100 meters from the Aghios Eleftherios metro station? Visitors at the museum can observe more than 400 exhibits of authentic meteorites, as well as impact rocks formed by the collision of large asteroids with our planet. From 6.5 kilo main belt asteroids, to planetoids and comets containing complex organic compounds and aminoacids, identified as originating in space! Meteorites from the Moon, Mars and Mercury tell the exciting story of the creation of the planets and of the past existence of water and possibly even life on Mars! The museum uses video walls, projectors, tablets, microscopes and other interactive media, for its thematic presentations. It is about meteorites, asteroids, astronomy and the creation of our solar system.
The person in charge of the museum, Mr. Theodosiou is giving us a tour, explaining how it all began, but also a few words about the collection on display.
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The original concept was in my mind for many years, if not decades. Almost from when I seriously started with the collection of meteorites. Because the building that houses the Aeroliths Collection Theodosiou is privately owned across three floors, we can offer multiple interactive experiences for the museum's visitors. This took many years of efforts to finally become a reality
N.A.: The Greek Meteorite Museum is the first of its kind that opened in Athens. Would you tell us how it got started and a few words about the collections it exhibits?
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Yes, our museum, with its two additional floors can host besides presentations in astronomy, cosmology, meteorites and our solar system book launches, astronomy-themed music nights and even talks. It can function as an all-purpose cultural and education center. It has educational material found nowhere else in the country, as well as a unique ambiance, made possible by the 500 and more rare meteorites on display here.
N.A.: The museum often hosts presentations, educational seminars, experiment workshops and interactive presentations or games. Tell us a few words for these events.
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Given that we have at our disposal approximately 220 square meters on three levels, visitors can interact with many of the exhibits Naturally, our main focus is on primary and secondary school groups. They have responded with great enthusiasm and interest for the scientific knowledge and information unlike any other, that we present to them through video walls, games and interactive activities with the meteorites. We even conduct a treasure hunt in the outdoor area near our museum.
N.A.: Until now, how has the public received the newly opened meteorite museum? Has the reception been the one you were hoping for?
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Speaking as a member of the IMCA (The International Meteorite Collectors Association), we are an international body searching for meteorites in all parts of the world. When we do find them, we classify them mostly for display in museums and private collections. Meteorites fall every year, all over the planet, regardless of region. All we need to know is a meteorite’s impact site, before members of my team can set out to find and secure it. This process might occasionally yield new scientific data.
N.A.: How is the collection of meteorites carried out and in what parts of the world is there a larger concentration?
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Yes. Aeroliths Collection Theodosiou features impact rocks and meteorite material, from the most significant impact site in Greece. This is in the Zerelia Lakes region, near Almyros in Thessaly. This is where according to the evidence uncovered by my team in the last few years we can now state with certainty that these are twin craters of meteorite origin.
N.A.: Are there any meteorites in your collection that where found in Greece?
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After its first year of operation, the museum is now ready to host collections of world renowned collectors, but also from other museums, after agreements made lately, which would of course be open to the public.
N.A.: Does the museum host collections from abroad?
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It would be very hard for me to single out only one meteorite considering there are several exquisite and rare specimens. For example, the largest Martian meteorite fragment in our collection, weighting 14,5 grams, as well as several larger lunar meteorites some of them in cross-section so that their interior is visible. Personally, I think the processed iron meteorites from Zerelia are unique pieces relevant to the history of our ancient ancestors. According to evidence uncovered, the area’s inhabitants from the region of Thessaly, the Myrmidons, were processing meteorite iron, making tools and weapons before transforming it to steel. This is the only such case in the whole world, at least from what we know today.
N.A.: What is the most important exhibit for a visitor to see from up close?
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The rarity and scientific value of the material, as well as the site where it was found, all play a role. The whole process can be very complicated. As a result, their price can start at a few dollars per gram up to several thousands in some rare cases.
N.A.: How is the value of a meteorite determined and what process is followed?
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Naturally, the Greek Meteorites Museum's lab can perform restoration work on its exhibits. However, it is also able to receive and process possible meteorite material, for identification and classification purposes, both from within the country and from abroad. We have some really valuable experience in this field for our country. We collaborate with some of the most renowned centers of meteorite classification worldwide. We are the only official scientific network in Greece that guarantees accurate evaluation and careful handling of the samples sent to us.
N.A.: According to your website, there is a meteorite processing and restoration laboratory in the museum. What can you tell us about the kind of work done onsite?
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The museum is currently relying on private sector initiatives. Nevertheless, we are already in the process of finding additional sponsors, as there are already manifold collaborations with public universities both in our country and abroad. We are also in contact with distinguished geologists, astrophysicist and cosmonauts, like for example as part of the International Asteroid Day movement, which we represent in Greece.
N.A.: Does the museum receive any kind of support or funding from the state or public university institutions? Or are you relying exclusively on initiatives of the private sector?
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