Meteorites from Sweden

Discovered in 1906 in the far north of Sweden, near the town of Kitkiöjärvi, Muonionalusta is classified as an iron meteorite of the IVA group, belonging to the octahedrite sub-group. This meteorite is particularly famous for its striking Widmanstätten patterns, a crystalline structure that forms when the meteorite cools slowly over millions of years, allowing the iron-nickel alloy to form distinctive geometric shapes. These patterns are a hallmark of high-quality iron meteorites and make Muonionalusta a favourite among collectors.

Muonionalusta is not just valued for its aesthetic appeal, but also for its scientific significance. It is one of the oldest known meteorites, with an age estimated at around 4.5 billion years, nearly as old as the solar system itself. Studies of this meteorite have provided researchers with valuable insights into the early processes that shaped our solar system, particularly in understanding the differentiation of planetary bodies.

What sets Muonionalusta apart from many other meteorites is the size of the fragments and the large number of meteorite pieces that have been found over the years. The meteorite’s ability to be sliced into thin, polished sections, revealing its beautiful Widmanstätten patterns, has made it highly sought after, both for scientific study and for display in private collections.

The meteorite’s origin is thought to be from the asteroid belt, and the discovery of Muonionalusta in Sweden continues to make it a symbol of the country’s contribution to meteorite research.

Sweden