Chwichiya 002 C3.00-ung Meteorite
Find / Fall: Find – June 10, 2018
Location: Saguia el Hamra, Western Sahara
Classification: C3.00-ung
Total Known Weight: 644 g
The Chwichiya 002 meteorite was found on June 10, 2018, in Western Sahara. The official total weight is 644 grams.
It is a most remarkable meteorite. There are only three Type 3.00 ungrouped Carbonaceous Chondrites. The other two are small with a combined total known weight of slightly over 50 grams. They may be paired to Chwichiya 002. So the total weight of this classification is approximately 700 grams. Type 3.00 meteorites are extremely rare. To receive that classification they must be nearly as pristine as the day they formed.
Chwichiya 002 has a dark porous interior with well defined chondrules set in a fine grain iron-rich matrix. The Chwichiya 002 meteorite contains troilite, magnetite, and rare metal. Tests reveal that the meteorite has a very low extent of aqueous alteration. Chwichiya 002 also appears to be less heated than the least heated type 3 ordinary chondrite, Semarkona.
Some specimens of Chwichiya 002 are friable and care must be used if you intend on handling. If packed in a plastic case please do not remove.
