The role of impact magnetization in the solar system

In order to assess the role of impact magnetization on extra-terrestrial materials, shock magnetization laboratory experiments, and paleomagnetic studies of terrestrial impact sites, are reviewed. Both impact generated and impact modified materials are found to faithfully record the direction of the ambient field at the time of the shock event. Shock demagnetization and the acquisition of thermal remanence by cooling ejecta appear to be the primary impact-related mechanisms affecting the magnetization of lunar samples. The varied magnetization levels of shock metamorphosed meteorites probably reflect the diverse magnetic environments in which they evolved.