Meteorite Abadla 004 – Algeria

The Abadla 004 meteorite, discovered in 2023 near Bechar, Algeria, belongs to the rare category of primitive achondrites, specifically the Winonaite group. This type of meteorite is distinguished by its metamorphosed structure and mineral composition, which includes forsterite, enstatite, diopside and plagioclase. The composition is similar to chondrites, specifically types H and E chondrites. They show evidence of metamorphosis, partial melting, brecciation and often contain relict chondrules, which is characteristic of their chemical and mineral composition, which lies between H and E chondrites.

The total weight of Abadal 004 is approximately 1.65 kg, with typical mineral grain sizes ranging from 200 to 500 micrometres. It also contains admixtures of troilite, schreibersite and daubreelite. The meteorite also has distinct shock features, an indication of the high pressures and temperatures it experienced during its origin or journey through space.