NWA 16901 Meteorite – Ordinary Chondrite (L5), 85 g

This meteorite endcut comes from NWA 16901 and weighs 85.5 g. A total recovered mass of approximately 1200 g was originally acquired in Morocco in 2023. NWA 16901 is classified as an L5 ordinary chondrite and represents thermally metamorphosed stony meteorite material from its parent asteroid. The specimen is prepared as an endcut, preserving part of the natural exterior while exposing its internal structure on the cut face.

Features
• Name: NWA 16901 Meteorite
• Classification: Ordinary chondrite (L5, equilibrated)
• Origin: Undifferentiated asteroid (parent body unknown)
• Found: Northwest Africa
• Discovery Date: 2023 (Purchase)
• Total known weight: approx. 1.2 kg
• Weight: 85.5 g
• Dimensions: approx. 65 × 60 × 17 mm
• Condition: Endcut

Scientific and Physical Characteristics

The exterior of the specimen shows a weathered fusion crust with orangish-brown coloration. The cut surface reveals a Fe-oxide–stained interior with visible chondrules as well as dispersed metal and FeS phases.

Petrographic analysis indicates a recrystallized chondritic texture composed of partially preserved chondrules and lithic fragments embedded in a fine recrystallized matrix. Chondrules are present with an average diameter of approximately 737 µm, while secondary plagioclase occurs as fine-grained recrystallization products. Accessory phases include high-Ca pyroxene, plagioclase, troilite, chromite, and apatite.

Mineral chemistry confirms equilibration typical of type L5 ordinary chondrites, including olivine compositions around Fa24 and low-Ca pyroxene consistent with Fs21 compositions. These data support classification as an equilibrated ordinary chondrite with moderate thermal metamorphism and well-developed recrystallization textures.