The iron rock’s journey from the depths of space to a dense pine forest north of Stockholm has sparked a legal battle over ownership rights. The meteorite, which landed four years ago, was discovered by geologists Anders Zetterqvist and Andreas Forsberg, who were later challenged by the landowner, Johan Benzelstierna von Engestrom, for ownership.
The 30-pound iron meteorite, one of only a handful of fresh-fall iron meteorites found in the world, was a rare and valuable discovery. After a court battle that lasted for months, the appeals court ruled in favor of the landowner, overturning a previous decision that had sided with the geologists.
The legal case raised questions about ownership rights of unearthly objects that fall to Earth, as laws regulating the ownership of found meteorites vary from country to country. In Sweden, where the meteorite landed, there are no specific laws regarding ownership of meteorites.
The ruling by the appeals court was based on the interpretation of Swedish customary law, known as “Allemansrätten,” which provides the right of public access to nature. The judges considered meteorites as part of immovable property, similar to other stones found in nature.
While the landowner plans to donate the meteorite to a Swedish museum for public benefit, the geologists are considering appealing to Sweden’s Supreme Court. The decision has left them disappointed, as they fear it may discourage enthusiasts from searching for new meteorites in the future.
The legal battle over the ownership of the iron meteorite has not only highlighted the scientific and monetary value of such rare objects but also raised important questions about the rights of individuals to unearthly objects that make their way to Earth.
