Białystok (meteorite)

Białystok (meteorite)

The Białystok (meteorite) is a notable meteorite that fell in the vicinity of Białystok, Poland on September 5, 1827. It is classified as an ordinary chondrite, a type of stony meteorite that is rich in olivine and pyroxene minerals.

History

The Białystok meteorite fell at approximately 12:00 PM local time, and was observed by numerous witnesses in the surrounding area. The meteorite's descent was accompanied by a loud detonation and a visible fireball, typical characteristics of a meteorite fall. The main mass of the meteorite, weighing approximately 4.5 kilograms, was recovered shortly after the fall.

Classification

The Białystok meteorite is classified as an ordinary chondrite, specifically an L6 type. Ordinary chondrites are the most common type of meteorite, comprising approximately 85% of all meteorite falls. The L6 designation indicates that the meteorite is rich in olivine and pyroxene minerals, and has undergone a high degree of thermal metamorphism.

Significance

The Białystok meteorite is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it is one of the few meteorites to have been observed falling, a factor that greatly increases its scientific value. Secondly, its relatively large size and the fact that it was recovered almost immediately after the fall means that it has been less subject to terrestrial weathering and contamination than many other meteorites. Finally, as an L6 chondrite, it provides valuable information about the composition and history of the solar system.

See also

• List of meteorites
• Meteorite classification
• Meteorite fall

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