Lindhurst Lab

The Lindhurst Laboratory for Experimental Geophysics is hosted in Caltech's Division of Geological and Planetary Sciences and is dedicated to investigating geophysical, geochemical, and planetary problems using shock wave methods. The lab is run by Paul Asimow, the Eleanor And John R. Mcmillan Professor Of Geology And Geochemistry. Research over the years has included both terrestrial and planetary applications. We study equations of the state of rocks, minerals and melts; examine the effects of shock deformation on minerals and rocks; identify and characterize shock pressure-induced phase changes; look at the energetics and geometry of impact cratering; synthesize novel materials; and interpret the collisional history of meteorites.