Stones from Space, Records on Earth: Cataloging Meteorite Collections in Italian Museums with the BN-PL National Standard: State of the Art and Future Perspectives

The study of astromaterials, including meteorites, provides essential insights into the origin and evolution of the Solar System. Their scientific value relies not only on analytical investigations but also on rigorous documentation and long-term preservation. In this context, standardized cataloging systems are not merely administrative acts but fundamental tools for ensuring data accessibility, safeguarding collection integrity, and facilitating knowledge dissemination within the planetary science community. Importantly, most meteorites are preserved in museum collections, making these institutions central to their conservation and study. This contribution examines the BN-PL (Beni Naturalistici–Planetologia) Italian national cataloging standard, developed by the Central Institute for Cataloging and Documentation (ICCD) under the Ministry of Culture. Specifically designed for meteorite museum collections, BNPL forms part of a legally recognized, interoperable, and open-access system. The standard comprises over 21 thematic sections, covering classification, sample availability, provenance, acquisition, analytical data, conservation policies, exhibition records, and bibliography. Each entry is complemented by high-resolution images and multimedia documentation, supporting both research and public engagement. This work outlines the state of cataloging Italian meteorite museum collections using BNPL, highlighting its strengths and limitations, while also considering the potential development of the standard for cataloging astromaterials within the national heritage framework.