Mesosiderite-A3 (Stony Iron)
Fall of 12 March 1935, 59 kg

A true meteorite shower from the vicinity of Łowicz. 58 stones were reported in the early literature, but additional stones have apparently been found more recently. Fe-Ni metal and orthopyroxene-rich silicates (metal/silicate ration 3:2) account for ~99 wt% of the meteorite. Fe-Ni is ~ 8 wt% Ni while orthopyroxene is variable (En82-65). Calcic plagioclase has both bytownite and anorthite components. Inverted pigeonite and olivine coronas are indicative of alteration processes. Minor pyroxenes, sulfides, phosphides, and phosphates also indicate a range of complex interactions in the mineralogical history of the meteorite. Ar-Ar ages most likely indicate strong impacts between 3.6 and 4.0 billion years ago not unlike similar studies of other mesosiderites.

Tyminski & Brachaniec (2014) have suggested that specific mineralogical and textural features in Łowicz are due to connections with the HED clan. This consideration is now in active play as O-isotope ratios of mesosiderites — but not pallasites — have been shown to be quite similar to those of the normal HED meteorites.


As of 2000 35 stones were held by the Geological Museum of Warsaw.

Other Regions, Features and Areas containing this locality

References