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.

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.