Pennsylvania man turns meteorite hunting into full-time career

Brett Joseph Cohen sells rare space rocks at annual trade show

Apr. 1, 2026 at 4:34pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Brett Joseph Cohen has turned his passion for hunting meteorites into a full-time career. The Pennsylvania resident was the only vendor selling meteorites and lunar rocks at the recent Philadelphia Mineralogical Society's annual trade show, where his table was filled with rare chunks of asteroids and other space debris.

Why it matters

Meteorite hunting is a niche hobby that requires specialized knowledge and skills. Cohen has developed expertise in identifying, collecting, and selling these valuable space rocks, making a living from his lifelong fascination with the cosmos.

The details

Cohen spends much of his time scouring remote areas of the United States in search of meteorites that have fallen to Earth. He carefully catalogs and prepares the specimens to sell to collectors and enthusiasts at events like the Philadelphia Mineralogical Society trade show.

  • Cohen has been meteorite hunting for over 20 years.
  • The Philadelphia Mineralogical Society trade show took place on Sunday, April 1, 2026.

The players

Brett Joseph Cohen

A Pennsylvania resident who has turned his passion for hunting meteorites into a full-time career, selling rare space rocks at events like the Philadelphia Mineralogical Society's annual trade show.

Philadelphia Mineralogical Society

A local organization that hosts an annual trade show where collectors and enthusiasts can buy, sell, and trade minerals, fossils, and meteorites.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I've been fascinated by meteorites since I was a kid. It's amazing to think these rocks have traveled billions of miles through space to end up here on Earth.”

— Brett Joseph Cohen

What’s next

Cohen plans to continue attending meteorite-focused events and trade shows across the country to connect with collectors and expand his business.

The takeaway

Meteorite hunting may seem like an obscure hobby, but for dedicated enthusiasts like Brett Joseph Cohen, it can become a fulfilling and lucrative full-time career. His story highlights the passion and expertise required to thrive in this niche field.