Ait Saoun ( 0,918 g )

Ait Saoun
Drâa-Tafilalet, Morocco
Fall:  Tuesday, August 06, 2024, 9:40 PM local time
still under classification: possible Enstatite chondrite EH3 or EH4
 
History:
Ait Saoun is a newly classified meteorite that fell near a small village bearing the same name in Morocco. This meteorite has been identified as an EH3/4 chondrite based on comprehensive analyses following its fall. The event, marked by a spectacular fireball, has attracted significant attention from both the scientific community and meteorite enthusiasts.
 
On the evening of August 6, 2024, at approximately 10:45 PM, a brilliant fireball streaked across the night sky above Ait Saoun. This celestial event was not only visible but also audible, as locals reported hearing a resounding explosion. The phenomenon captured the interest of onlookers across the Sahara Desert, setting the stage for a significant meteorite discovery the following day.
 
The morning following the fireball's appearance, eager meteorite hunters descended upon the region in search of fragments. Their efforts proved fruitful as the first pieces were located within hours of the initial sighting. The announcement of the meteorite fall sparked a surge of activity, culminating in the collection of approximately 1-2 kilograms of fresh meteorites over several weeks. These discoveries included numerous small fragments, some of which displayed orientation and were characterized by glossy, shimmering fusion crusts.
 
Initially thought to be a rare carbonaceous meteorite, further analysis revealed Ait Saoun to be a unique example of an EH3/4 chondrite. This classification highlights its significance in the study of the solar system's early materials, making it a valuable specimen for both research and collection. The classification is still pending with the meteoritical bulletin and should be uploaded in the next few weeks.
 
The Ait Saoun meteorite represents more than just a rare collectible; it provides a window into our solar system’s history and the processes that shaped it. With its stunning features and scientific importance, Ait Saoun is a must-have for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of the cosmos from this extraordinary event.
 
The EH 3/4 meteorite classification refers to a specific type of enstatite chondrite, which is one of the more primitive classes of meteorites. These meteorites are rich in enstatite (a type of pyroxene) and typically contain minimal amounts of other minerals. The EH (high iron) chondrites, particularly, have a greater abundance of metallic Fe-Ni than their EL (low iron) counterparts.
 
 
 
Rating:
Class A
Entry Date/Time:
2023-08-20 20:40:56 UTC
End Location:
90 km WNW of Zagora
Endpoint Coordinates:
30.7306°N, 6.7273°W
Entry Energy/Mass Estimate:
~8 tonne TNT / ~300kg
Entry Speed:
unknown
End Height:
~37.8 km
Bearing Angle:
96° E
Incidence Angle:
~16° from vertical