Northwest Africa 493 Meteorite Quick Facts
- Name: Northwest Africa 493
- Year Discovered: 2000
- Approximate Recovery Location: Morocco
- Precise Recovery Location:
- Mass: 346 grams
- Classification: H3.8
- Discovery Type: Found
- Condition: Valid
More Details About the Northwest Africa 493 Meteorite
The Northwest Africa 493 meteorite was discovered in 2000. It was recovered in Morocco . It has a mass of 346 grams.
Northwest Africa 493 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 493’s official classification is H3.8. The classification “H3.8” refers to a specific type of meteorite from the H group, known as an ordinary chondrite. These meteorites are characterized by their high iron content, small chondrules, and distinct mineral compositions, with type 3 indicating that they have abundant chondrules and minimal alteration. In simpler terms, it’s a type of meteorite that scientists use to study the early solar system due to its unique properties.
The Northwest Africa 493 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