Campo de Cielo meteorite, 1 1/2 inch
The Campo del Cielo refers to a group of iron meteorites or to the area where they were found. This area is situated on the border between the provinces of Chaco and Santiago del Estero, 1,000 kilometers (620 mi) northwest of Buenos Aires, Argentina. The crater field covers an area of 3 by 18.5 kilometres (1.9 by 11.5 mi) and contains at least 26 craters, the largest being 115 by 91 metres (377 by 299 ft).
The craters’ age is estimated as 4,000–5,000 years. The craters, containing iron masses, were reported in 1576, but were already well known to the aboriginal inhabitants of the area. The craters and the area around contain numerous fragments of an iron meteorite. The total weight of the pieces so far recovered is about 100 tonnes, making the meteorite possibly the heaviest one ever recovered on Earth.
These meteorites originated from a meteorite impact event that occurred millions of years ago in Argentina. Despite their ancient origins, they were only discovered in 1576 when the indigenous inhabitants of the region came across the scattered fragments. Composed mainly of iron and nickel, these meteorites exhibit a high metal content, which gives them their characteristic magnetic properties. They provide valuable insights into the processes that shaped the early solar system and offer clues about the conditions prevailing in the asteroid belt. Analysis of these meteorites continues to contribute to our understanding of celestial dynamics and the history of our solar system.
The total known weight of Campo del Cielo meteorites is estimated to be several tons. While precise measurements vary, scientists estimate that the combined weight of Campo del Cielo meteorites discovered so far amounts to several thousand kilograms. These meteorites come in various sizes, ranging from small fragments to larger specimens weighing hundreds of kilograms. The significant weight of Campo del Cielo meteorites underscores their importance in scientific research and their appeal to collectors.
Prehistoric 101 (Learn about fossils, minerals, and meteorites)
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The Meteoritical Society Database
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