Meteorite NWA X – Northwest Africa

Meteorites designated as NWA X come from a region of northwest Africa where many different meteorites have fallen, resulting in many crash fields. Various meteorites are known from this area, which includes present-day Morocco, Libya, Algeria, and others, such as NWA 869 or NWA 7325. When it is not clear to which specific meteorite to assign a particular fall, it is generally referred to as NWA X. Different types of meteorites may be present within a single fall, and therefore it is not possible to determine exactly which meteorite belongs to which find without laboratory analysis.

Chondrites are the most common type of meteorite, accounting for up to 75% of all known impacts on Earth. These meteorites are characterized by the presence of small spheres or grains called chondrules, which formed in the early solar system more than 4 billion years ago. Chondrites are often as old as Earth and provide important information about the chemical composition and processes that took place during the formation of the solar system.

Characteristics of NWA X meteorites

1. Origin
   • These meteorites come from the vast desert regions of northwest Africa, particularly Morocco, Algeria, Libya, Mauritania and Mali.
   • The desert provides a suitable environment for finding meteorites due to its aridity and lack of vegetation.
2. Composition:
   • NWA meteorites can be stony (chondrites and achondrites), ferruginous or stony-iron.
   • Due to their wide range of origins, they can contain a variety of minerals and elements, often depending on their type.
3. Classification:
   • Unmarked "NWA X" meteorites have not been subjected to detailed scientific analyses to determine their exact classification.
   • They may eventually be classified as chondrites, achondrites, iron meteorites, or rock-iron meteorites based on further research and analysis.
4. Scientific significance:
   • These meteorites can provide valuable information about the composition and history of the solar system.
   • Analysis of NWA meteorites can contribute to a better understanding of the processes that led to the formation of planets and other bodies in the Solar System.