Dronino – A Rare Iron Meteorite from the Depths of History

The Dronino meteorite is a rare ataxite-type iron meteorite discovered in 2000 near the village of Dronino in the Ryazan district of Russia. Although its fall was not observed, scientific evidence suggests it landed before the 12th century, possibly over 800 years ago, in a time when the region was largely uninhabited.

Dronino is classified as an ungrouped iron meteorite, meaning it does not fit into any known iron meteorite group—making it truly unique. It contains up to 10% sulfide inclusions and features a distinctive internal structure composed of kamacite and taenite, along with traces of chromite and iron phosphate minerals.

Over 600 fragments have been recovered by scientific expeditions and meteorite hunters, scattered across a 0.5 × 1.5 km area. The largest single piece weighs an impressive 250 kg. Many Dronino fragments are heavily weathered and covered with a thick layer of rust, which gives them a rugged and dramatic appearance—testament to their long burial underground.

The Dronino meteorite is a fascinating choice for collectors and space enthusiasts who appreciate authenticity, rarity, and scientific intrigue.