Meteorite Tarda – Morocco
Type: stony meteorite / carbonaceous chondrite C2 - ungrouped
Locality: Morocco
Weight: 0,12g
Dimensions: 6 x 5 x 3 mm
Year fell: 2020
Total known weight: 4 kg
Surface treatment: none – raw
Packaging: Transparent plastic box (5,8 x 3,8 x 1,6 cm)
Category: | Tarda |
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By name: | Tarda |
? Type: | Stony |
Subspecies: | Chondrite |
? Surface treatment: | Natural (raw) |
Packaging: | In box |
Specialties: | Observed fall |
Tarda Meteorite – Carbonaceous Chondrite from Morocco
The Tarda meteorite is a carbonaceous chondrite (C2 - ungrouped) that fell in Morocco on August 25, 2020. Witnesses described a bright yellow fireball with greenish edges, accompanied by a whistling sound and several detonations. The first fragment was found the next day near the village of Tarda. A total of approximately 4 kg of material was recovered, with individual pieces ranging from a few milligrams to 99 grams.
Composition and Characteristics
This meteorite belongs to a rare group of carbonaceous chondrites, and its composition suggests it may originate from the outer regions of the solar system. Scientists compare it with other carbonaceous meteorites such as Tagish Lake, considering a common origin. The structure of the meteorite is fragile and has low density, making it prone to rapid degradation when exposed to moisture. The interior is dark black with small light grains or inclusions, which may reach up to one millimeter in size.