Sebkha el Melah 001 meteorite, Taoudénit Cercle, Taoudénit Region, Malii

Regional Level Types
Sebkha el Melah 001 meteorite	Meteorite Fall Location
Taoudénit Cercle	Cercle
Taoudénit Region	Region
Mali	Country

The meteorite discovery took place in the Wad Alhath region of Mali, located about 54 km to the northeast of Tamanieret village and approximately 245 km southeast of Taoudenni. The find, in late March 2022, was made by Sahrawi meteorite hunters. A substantial total of around 17 kg was recovered, with the majority (12.5 kg) coming into possession of Bachir Salek. This includes the primary mass, at 3550 g.

The meteorite is predominantly comprised of clusters of coarse enstatite crystals interlocking in a pegmatitic texture. Individual crystals can be measured in cm, many of which exhibit clear cleavage planes and traces. A number of enstatite crystals appear milky-white, whilst a selection are colorless, ranging from translucent to transparent and possessing a gemmy quality. The enstatite crystals detach readily from the cluster, with the largest single crystal recorded at 45 grams and dimensions of approximately 5 cm by 2 cm. Dark-colored patches punctuate some crystals. Noticeable amounts of fusion crust, varying in hue from cream-colored to white, are present, with a smaller quantity of fusion crust being dark-colored. The meteorite is devoid of vesicles and exhibits no signs of brecciation.

Other Regions, Features and Areas containing this locality