Low-Density Silica Xerogel Capture of Leonids Meteor Storm Dust Candidates by Stratospheric Balloon Return

High altitude balloon (20 km) and low-density capture media were explored to return meteor-related dust during the November 1998 Leonids meteor storm. One 20-30 micron particle captured showed a characteristic signature of extraterrestrial origin, featuring high aluminum, magnesium and other non-volatile metals. The technique of balloon capture will be optimized for March and November 1999 reflights.