Dolores Hill

Dolores has had a lifelong interest in amateur astronomy and meteorites. She has analyzed and studied meteorites at LPL since 1981, beginning with rims of individual chondrules in type 3 chondrites and Wark-Lovering rims of Allende CAls (Calcium-Aluminum-rich Inclusions) with Dr. Bill Boynton, Dr. Laurel Wilkening, (and Dr. David Wark). Specializing in neutron activation analysis (using gamma ray spectroscopy), radiochemistry of rare earth elements, and electron microprobe techniques, she has been privileged to analyze samples of many famous and rare meteorites. She analyzes and classifies meteorites, supports LPL meteorite research activities and laboratory safety, assists graduate students and other researchers. She enjoys sharing the excitement of meteorite research through talks and providing hands-on meteorite opportunities for school groups, astronomy clubs, and special public events. Dolores is a member of the Education and Public Outreach Team for the NASA OSIRIS-REx asteroid sample return mission to Potentially Hazardous Asteroid (101955) 1999 RQ36. She is an OSIRIS-REx Ambassador, assists science team members, and is co-lead with Carl Hergenrother, for Target Asteroids! a new citizen science project and Target NE0s!, a new Astronomical League observing program.