[meteorite-list] Ebargoing of numbers on U.S. finds

[Adam Hupe]

Dear List Members,
 
I have a problem with this embargoing of numbers on U.S. finds. I have many cold 
finds that were studied and reported years ago with still no entry in the 
Meteoritical Bulletin, particularly California finds. I think it might be 
because blocks of numbers were reserved ahead of time by other hunters even 
though no meteorites were found at these locations. I hate to think that a 
serial number of 501 will be assigned when our team was the very first one to 
find a meteorite at a given location.  I have no problem whatsoever reporting 
exact coordinates for ordinary chondrites and having them published right away. 
  I have reported areas where meteorites were found to other hunters just to see 
them quietly working the areas for themselves instead of sharing the locations 
with others.  All I asked is that exact coordinates and weights of the finds be 
reported to the NomCom through a qualified research facility instead of having 
them thrown in a box to the benefit of no one.  
 
My philosophy is the more hunters, the merrier unless we are talking about a 
super rare type!  I would keep the first North American Lunar find coordinates 
to myself until a professionally organized team thoroughly works the area.  An 
ordinary weathered chondrite on the other hand; I would have no problem sharing 
the coordinates which I have done many times.
 
I have another find that was reported and not yet published.  This may be due to 
the find location being so outrageous.  I will give the exact coordinates and 
you can zoom right into the exact find location within 10 feet on Google Earth 
after the piece makes the Meteoritical Bulletin.   I am savoring the moment this 
piece is announced since the story is so good.  Perhaps, it will be approved 
soon if the location is not embargoed.
 
Best Regards,


Adam