Observed fall: Yes probable
Year of probable fall: 2023
Country: Morocco
Mass: 5.49 kg
Classification: Ordinary chondrite (L4)
History: (Zaid Oualguirah) On March 3, 2023, at 2:00 pm GMT, while approximately 1 km to the east of the fall site, nomadic sheep herders named Derija Bent Yahya, Abo bakr Aabidha, Brika weld Himdah and Elkhadir observed a fireball travelling with a SE to NW trajectory fall in the desert region ~45 km SW of Akhfennir, Morocco. As the meteoroid entered the atmosphere, the fireball was reported to be yellow turning to white in color and was accompanied by a sonic boom that is reported to have scattered the herder’s flock. Residents of Samara, individuals in the Al Haggounia strewnfield and residents of Akhfennir all reported to have observed the fireball. The first pieces were found by Abo bakr Aabidha and other residents from Akhefennir on March 4. Thirty-six individuals from the Moroccan Association of Meteorite Hunters organized a search on March 13 and were able to collect an additional 2 kg of stones. The area where samples were found lies within a valley that contains desert pavement separated by abundance of small seasonal ponds. Initial samples were found in the mud where the land surface was wet from recent snow. As seasonal ponds dried, additional samples were found. The Moroccan Association of Meteorite hunters recovered 20 samples weighing a total of 1942 g. Subsequent finds were made bringing the total known weight to ~4764 g. Coordinates and weights of finds indicate the distribution ellipse has a length of 4.3 km and confirm the SE to NW trajectory. 43 stones weighing 1036 g were sold to Jean Redelsperger.
Physical characteristics: Many stones are completely coated by black fusion crust. Some are oriented and larger stones show regmaglypts and surfaces showing slickensides. Fragments found in mud show spots of oxidation on crusted surfaces and exposed interiors. The broken face shows the interior is composed of light grey chondrules, FeNi and troilite grains.
