NWA XXX Ordinary Chondrite Meteorite Individual, Unclassified, 316.40g, Complete Fusion Crust, Oriented

Oriented atmospheric entry preserved in fusion crust

This 316.40g ordinary chondrite individual displays oriented flight characteristics visible across its complete fusion crust surface. The thermal pattern shows a defined leading edge where atmospheric compression heated the meteoroid to incandescence, creating the glossy black coating that covers the entire specimen. The crust's variation in thickness and texture maps the pressure gradient experienced during deceleration through Earth's atmosphere. Fresh condition indicates minimal terrestrial weathering since the 2024 recovery in Western Sahara.

The specimen's mass and structural integrity make it suitable for both display and scientific examination. Ordinary chondrites constitute approximately 87% of observed meteorite falls, yet complete fusion crust coverage remains uncommon in recovered specimens. Most finds show partial crust loss from ground impact or post-fall weathering.

Fusion crust formation and preservation

The fusion crust formed during the final seconds of atmospheric flight as surface temperatures exceeded 1,500°C. This thermal shell developed through ablation—the continuous removal of heated material as the meteoroid descended. The oriented shape indicates stable flight geometry, with one surface consistently facing the direction of travel. Flow lines and differential thickness across the crust document the aerodynamic forces that shaped this specimen during entry.

Fresh fusion crust appears glossy black due to magnetite-rich glass formed from flash-melted chondritic material. This specimen's crust shows no significant caliche coating or desert varnish, suggesting either recent fall or rapid recovery after landing. The arid Western Sahara environment provides excellent preservation conditions for meteorite finds.

Scientific context

Ordinary chondrites formed in the early solar system approximately 4.56 billion years ago from dust and small particles in the protoplanetary disk. These meteorites preserve primitive materials that accreted before planetary differentiation began. The chondrules—millimeter-scale spherical structures within the matrix—solidified from molten droplets in the solar nebula. Unclassified specimens await detailed analysis to determine their specific group (H, L, or LL) and petrologic type, which indicate parent body composition and thermal history.

Most ordinary chondrites originate from S-type asteroids in the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. Impact events fragment these parent bodies, ejecting material that eventually intersects Earth's orbit. The complete fusion crust on this specimen provides evidence of its atmospheric passage and validates its extraterrestrial origin. Learn About Meteorites to understand the formation and classification of different meteorite types.

Frequently asked questions

Is this meteorite authenticated? This specimen is documented as an ordinary chondrite find from Western Sahara in 2024. While not yet fully classified to group and type, its fusion crust and internal characteristics confirm meteoritic origin. The specimen includes a certificate of authenticity. For classification details, search the Meteoritical Bulletin at: www.lpi.usra.edu/meteor/metbull.php.

What does "oriented" mean for this meteorite? Orientation indicates the specimen maintained a stable attitude during atmospheric flight, with one surface consistently facing forward. This stable flight created the asymmetric fusion crust pattern visible on the specimen, with thicker crust on the leading edge where heating was most intense.

What is included with this specimen? You receive the 316.40g oriented individual with complete fusion crust and a certificate of authenticity. No display stand is included.

Why is complete fusion crust coverage significant? Most meteorite finds show partial crust loss from impact damage or weathering. Complete coverage indicates the specimen survived atmospheric entry, landing, and recovery without fragmentation or surface degradation. This preservation makes the specimen valuable for studying entry heating patterns.

What will classification determine? Future analysis will assign this specimen to H, L, or LL group based on iron content and assign a petrologic type (3-6) based on thermal metamorphism degree. Classification provides specific information about parent body composition and processing history.

Display and collection value

The 316.40g mass provides substantial presence for display while remaining manageable for handling and study. Complete fusion crust coverage appeals to collectors seeking specimens that show clear evidence of atmospheric passage. Oriented meteorites demonstrate flight dynamics principles and represent a subset of finds with documented stable entry trajectories.

Fresh fusion crust contrasts visually with weathered or fusion crust-free specimens, making this individual immediately identifiable as a meteorite to observers. The 2024 find date means this specimen entered collections during the current era of meteorite documentation and trading. Collectors building comprehensive ordinary chondrite collections value specimens showing varied preservation states and morphologies. Browse our full selection in the Chondrites collection or explore Budget Friendly Pieces for accessible specimens across multiple types.