Gao-Guenie is an H5 chondrite that fell in Burkina Faso in 1960. Estimated to be 4.5 billion years old, it features a fusion crust and a preserved interior. A true and verified fragment of the early solar system — ideal for collectors. More
Gao-Guenie Meteorite – A Messenger from the Early Solar System
The Gao-Guenie meteorite with weight 22.29 grams and sizes 27x27x20 mm is an H5 ordinary chondrite that fell in March 1960 near the town of Gao in southwestern Burkina Faso (formerly Upper Volta), West Africa. This was a witnessed fall, meaning its descent through Earth’s atmosphere was observed — over 100 fragments were recovered, some even landing within the village itself. Fortunately, no one was injured.
Estimated to be around 4.5 billion years old, Gao-Guenie carries a story that began during the formation of our solar system. It contains metal-rich minerals such as iron-nickel alloy, olivine, and pyroxene — primitive materials found in early planetary bodies.
Gao-Guenie is highly prized by collectors for its characteristic features: a dark fusion crust created by the intense heat of atmospheric entry and a well-preserved interior. This meteorite is a perfect specimen for anyone who wishes to own an authentic piece of cosmic history with a documented origin.
The Gao-Guenie meteorite, also known simply as Gao or Gao-Guenie H5, is a chondritic meteorite that fell in Burkina Faso, West Africa. This meteorite is significant both scientifically and historically. Here is a detailed description of its characteristics and importance:
Characteristics of the Gao-Guenie Meteorite
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Type of Meteorite: Gao-Guenie is an H5 chondrite. Chondrites are the oldest and most common type of meteorites, containing small spherical inclusions called chondrules. H chondrites have a high iron content and contain metallic iron-nickel alloys.
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Mineral Composition: Gao-Guenie is primarily composed of olivine, pyroxene, plagioclase, and metallic iron-nickel. These minerals are typical for H chondrites.
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Structure and Texture: This meteorite has a granular structure with visible chondrules. These chondrules are spherical particles formed by the rapid cooling of molten material in the early solar system.
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Age: Like other chondrites, Gao-Guenie dates back to the formation of the solar system, approximately 4.56 billion years ago.
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Physical Properties: The mass of the fragments found after the meteorite's fall varies from several grams to kilograms. The meteorite fragments are usually covered with a thin black fusion crust formed during their passage through the atmosphere.
History and Significance
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Date of Fall: The Gao-Guenie meteorite fell to Earth on March 5, 1960. The event was witnessed by many people in the area.
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Location of Fall: It fell near the towns of Gao and Guenine in Burkina Faso. Fragments of the meteorite were scattered over a relatively large area.
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Collection and Research: After the fall, a large number of fragments were collected and subsequently studied by scientists worldwide. These fragments provide valuable information about the composition and history of the early solar system.
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Scientific Importance: The Gao-Guenie meteorite is significant for scientific studies because its composition and structure provide insights into the processes that took place during the formation of the solar system. Analysis of its chondrules and minerals helps scientists understand the conditions that led to the creation of solid bodies in the early solar system.
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Cultural and Educational Value: Fragments of the Gao-Guenie meteorite are displayed in many museums and educational institutions worldwide, helping to raise public awareness of meteoritic science and planetary geology.
Summary
The Gao-Guenie meteorite is a valuable natural specimen that provides important information about the composition and evolution of the solar system. Its study brings insights crucial for understanding the early stages of planetary and other body formation in our solar system.