Northwest Africa 1881 Meteorite Quick Facts
- Name: Northwest Africa 1881
- Year Discovered: 2002
- Approximate Recovery Location: Morocco
- Precise Recovery Location:
- Mass: 13 grams
- Classification: LL4-6
- Discovery Type: Found
- Condition: Valid
More Details About the Northwest Africa 1881 Meteorite
The Northwest Africa 1881 meteorite was discovered in 2002. It was recovered in Morocco . It has a mass of 13 grams.
Northwest Africa 1881 is considered a “Valid” meteorite. “Valid” meteorites are typical meteorites with average weathering, while “relict” meteorites are those that have been extremely altered, either due to weathering over time or human intervention.
Northwest Africa 1881’s official classification is LL4-6. The classification “LL4-6” refers to an ordinary chondrite from the LL group that is a breccia composed of components ranging from petrologic type 4 to type 6. Ordinary chondrites are a major type of meteorite known for their distinct characteristics, including a high abundance of chondrules (small, round mineral grains) and specific chemical traits. In this case, the meteorite is a mixture of various types, indicating differences in metamorphism and mineral composition within the same specimen.
The Northwest Africa 1881 meteorite is a “Found” meteorite. Meteorites are classified as “falls” if they were observed falling and recovered, while “finds” are those discovered later, often weathered by longer exposure to Earth’s environment and without a record of being seen as they fell.
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Last Updated: 1/15/24