Meet The Meteorite Hunters Of Morocco (Hbo)

Unveiling the Hidden Treasures

In a land where foreign nomads once relied on raising and selling goats to survive, a new and more lucrative career path has emerged. These adventurous individuals now wait patiently, eyes fixed on the night sky, eagerly anticipating the streak of a meteorite. Once spotted, they embark on an exhilarating journey to locate its landing site. However, this task is no easy feat, often taking weeks to accomplish.

Every year, tens of thousands of asteroids make their way towards Earth. While finding a valuable meteorite, such as a broken-off piece from the moon or Mars, is rare, pebble-sized meteorites are more common and can be sold for as little as five dollars. But just how many meteorites can one find in a day? It's a question that lingers in the minds of these daring hunters.

The Birth of Meteorite Hunters

At what point does one decide to become a meteorite hunter? What drives them to take on such an extraordinary and hazardous profession? For Breakers, it was a particular meteorite that captured his attention. This meteorite fell in Tensift and is now known to be the most expensive in the world. But why does Morocco have such a thriving meteorite industry? Are there more meteorites falling here compared to other regions?

The answer lies not in the quantity of meteorites but rather in the favorable environment that Morocco provides. The vast expanse of flat barren land makes it easier to spot these celestial treasures. Additionally, the presence of nomads who rely on herding for their livelihood means they are constantly traversing the desert. These nomads have become invaluable finders in this thrilling pursuit.

The Middlemen and Traders

Aaronson, an international meteorite trader with clients ranging from private collectors to museums and scientists worldwide, heavily relies on middlemen like Malud Basheek. These intermediaries bridge the gap between the nomads who discover the meteorites and the traders who bring them to market. It is through their collaboration that these extraordinary specimens find their way into the hands of collectors and researchers.

The Rising Meteorite Market

Over the past 11 years, Basheek has witnessed a significant uptick in business. While official numbers are not kept, both hunters and nomads agree that the meteorite industry is on an upward trend. But what has caused this surge in market demand? The answer lies