Stone meteorite Abadla 004 - 0.422 grams
Abadla 004 is a rare meteorite classified as a primitive achondrite of the winonaite type. It was purchased in 2023 in the Abadla area of Algeria by Saharan meteorite hunters. More
Basic Information
- Find Coordinates: 30.873960°N, 2.802016°W
- Region: Bechar, Algeria
- Purchase Date: 2023
- Classification: Primitive achondrite (winonaite)
- Sample weight: 0.422 grams
Structure and Composition
- Texture: Metamorphic, with 120° triple junctions and partially poikilitic intergrowths.
- Main Minerals: Forsterite, enstatite, diopside, plagioclase, Fe-Ni metal (partially oxidized).
- Accessory Minerals: Troilite, schreibersite, daubréelite.
- Grain Size: 200–500 µm.
Geochemical Properties
- Olivine: Fa0.2±0.1; Fe/Mn: 1.4.
- Low-Ca Pyroxene: Fs0.6±0.1Wo2.1±0.2; Fe/Mn: 0.7.
- Ca-rich Pyroxene: Fs0.7±0.6Wo44.3±0.6; Fe/Mn: 1.7.
- Feldspar: An9.4±0.5Or3.9±0.3.
Classification and Significance
Winonaites originate from primitive planetesimals that underwent partial melting without complete differentiation. Abadla 004 is valuable for studying early solar system processes and the effects of terrestrial oxidation on meteorites.
Summary
Abadla 004 is a unique meteorite that provides crucial insights into the evolution of material in the early solar system. Its chemical and textural properties reveal a mix of metamorphic and primitive processes in its parent body.