Department
Solar System, Impacts and Meteorites
Investigating cosmic influences on the development of the Earth
Overview
The department investigates how processes within the solar system have shaped the evolution of Earth. Asteroids, meteorites and cosmic dust provide key insights into the formation of planets, their composition and the conditions that made Earth habitable.
A central focus lies on reconstructing cosmic events recorded in the geological archive. To achieve this, we analyse samples from impact craters, sedimentary deposits, meteorites and micrometeorites, as well as data from space missions. The aim is to understand how impact events influenced the lithosphere, atmosphere and biosphere, and to assess the risks posed by future impacts.
The department applies a wide range of methods, including micro- and geochemical analyses, laboratory experiments and numerical simulations. Research on late accretion, for example within the DFG Collaborative Research Centre TRR 170, provides additional insights into early Earth history through the study of lunar material.
At the same time, the department connects research with public engagement. Projects on urban micrometeorites contribute to citizen science and support geoscience and planetary science education.
Management
Prof. Dr Kai Wünnemann
Head of Department
Email: Kai.Wuennemann@mfn.berlin
Research
Key areas
Understanding traces from space
We combine studies of meteorites, micrometeorites and geological traces of past impacts with data from space missions. In this way, we reconstruct the history of our planetary system and investigate how cosmic events influence the atmosphere, the Earth’s surface and the biosphere.
Research in partnership with society
Our work ranges from fundamental research to educational and citizen science projects, such as the search for micrometeorites in cities. Studies of the Moon also provide insights into early phases of Earth’s history that are scarcely preserved on Earth itself.
Methods of modern planetary research
For this research, we combine laboratory analyses of rocks and minerals with simulations and experiments. This allows us to better understand impact events and their consequences – an important contribution to the study of Earth’s history and the origins of life.
Research areas
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