Stone Meteorite - Gao Guenie - 0.647 grams

Structural classification of the meteorite: Chondrite H5

Impact location: Burkina Faso, Africa

Date of fall: 5.3.1960 17:00

Date of discovery: 1960

The meteorite weighs 0.647 grams.

The meteorite is contained in a plastic box with a white backing and a description.

!!! You are buying exactly the piece that is shown in the photo !!!

The Gao-Guenie meteorite, also known simply as Gao or Gao-Guenie H5, is a chondritic meteorite that fell in Burkina Faso, West Africa. This meteorite is significant both scientifically and historically. Here is a detailed description of its characteristics and importance:

Characteristics of the Gao-Guenie Meteorite

1. Type of Meteorite: Gao-Guenie is an H5 chondrite. Chondrites are the oldest and most common type of meteorites, containing small spherical inclusions called chondrules. H chondrites have a high iron content and contain metallic iron-nickel alloys.

2. Mineral Composition: Gao-Guenie is primarily composed of olivine, pyroxene, plagioclase, and metallic iron-nickel. These minerals are typical for H chondrites.

3. Structure and Texture: This meteorite has a granular structure with visible chondrules. These chondrules are spherical particles formed by the rapid cooling of molten material in the early solar system.

4. Age: Like other chondrites, Gao-Guenie dates back to the formation of the solar system, approximately 4.56 billion years ago.

5. Physical Properties: The mass of the fragments found after the meteorite's fall varies from several grams to kilograms. The meteorite fragments are usually covered with a thin black fusion crust formed during their passage through the atmosphere.

History and Significance

1. Date of Fall: The Gao-Guenie meteorite fell to Earth on March 5, 1960. The event was witnessed by many people in the area.

2. Location of Fall: It fell near the towns of Gao and Guenine in Burkina Faso. Fragments of the meteorite were scattered over a relatively large area.

3. Collection and Research: After the fall, a large number of fragments were collected and subsequently studied by scientists worldwide. These fragments provide valuable information about the composition and history of the early solar system.

4. Scientific Importance: The Gao-Guenie meteorite is significant for scientific studies because its composition and structure provide insights into the processes that took place during the formation of the solar system. Analysis of its chondrules and minerals helps scientists understand the conditions that led to the creation of solid bodies in the early solar system.

5. Cultural and Educational Value: Fragments of the Gao-Guenie meteorite are displayed in many museums and educational institutions worldwide, helping to raise public awareness of meteoritic science and planetary geology.

Summary

The Gao-Guenie meteorite is a valuable natural specimen that provides important information about the composition and evolution of the solar system. Its study brings insights crucial for understanding the early stages of planetary and other body formation in our solar system.