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Sectioned iron meteorite
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Sectioned iron meteorite
Iron meteorite. Sectioned fragment from an iron meteorite that caused the Odessa crater in Texas, USA, about 50, 000 years ago. The Widmanstatten pattern of lines on the newly-cut surface are produced by the edges of crystals in the meteorite. The pattern was formed about 4.5 billion years ago when the iron mass solidified in one of several minor planets between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter. These planets have since been disrupted to form the asteroid belt. The fragments resulting from collisions between asteroids are deflected into orbits that cross the path of the Earth. Analysis of meteorites can provide inform- ation on the composition of the early solar system
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Media ID 6425171
© DAVID PARKER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Cosmology Crystal Structure Iron Meteorite Meteorite Odessa
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This print showcases a sectioned iron meteorite, revealing the mesmerizing Widmanstatten pattern etched on its freshly-cut surface. This particular fragment originates from an iron meteorite that caused the formation of the Odessa crater in Texas, USA around 50,000 years ago. The intricate lines of the pattern are a result of crystal edges within the meteorite and were formed approximately 4.5 billion years ago when this celestial body solidified within one of several minor planets situated between Mars and Jupiter. These minor planets have long been disrupted, giving rise to what we now know as the asteroid belt. As asteroids collide with each other, fragments are deflected into orbits that intersect with Earth's path. By studying these precious remnants from space, scientists can gain valuable insights into the composition and characteristics of our early solar system. This thought-provoking image not only highlights the beauty inherent in nature's cosmic creations but also serves as a reminder of our connection to a vast universe beyond our own planet. It is through meticulous analysis and examination of such meteorites that researchers continue to unravel secrets about our origins and deepen our understanding of cosmology itself.
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