In preparation for the return of the first Martian samples in 2008, we are studying Martian meteorites in an effort to understand the evolution of the red planet.  As these meteorites span ages from >4 billion years to < 200 million years.  We have currently analyzed 3 of the 13 known Martian meteorites and have determined trace elements and PGEs via ICP-MS.  Not only have we demonstrated major problems with the current data base, but our new data suggests a change in magma source and mechanism over time.  We have a further 8 samples on the way for analysis to continue this study.

Papers resulting from this research:

Jones J.H., Neal C.R., and Ely J.C. (2003) Signatures of the highly siderophile elements on the SNC meteorites and Mars: A review and petrologic synthesis.  Chem. Geo. 196, 21-41.

Taylor L.A., Nazarov M.A., Shearer C.K., McSween H.Y., Jr., Cahill J., Neal C.R., Ivanova M.A., Barsukova L.D., Lentz R.C., Clayton R.N., and Mayeda T.K. (2002) Martian meteorite Dhofar 019:  A new Shergottite. Meteor. Planet. Sci. 37, 1107-1128.

Neal C.R. (2000) Issues involved in a Martian sample return: Integrity preservation and the Curation and Analysis Planning Team for Extraterrestrial Materials (CAPTEM) position. J. Geophys. Res. 105, 22,487-22,506.