Iron-magnesium silicates in rocky planetary interiors: Have we really discovered them all?

The study of iron-magnesium silicates within rocky planetary interiors has been a cornerstone of mineralogy, petrology and planetary science, offering insights into the composition and evolution of celestial bodies. The talk will present an exploration of the current understanding of these silicates and critically examines the question: Have we truly discovered them all?

Recent advancements in analytical techniques, including high-pressure experiments and computations, have challenged conventional assumptions about the ubiquity and diversity of iron-magnesium silicates. During the talk, key discoveries on Earth, Mars, and other celestial bodies will be reviewed revealing unexpected mineralogical variations and prompting a reevaluation of existing models.