Tarda Meteorite – Carbonaceous Chondrite (C2-ungrouped)

Tarda is a rare C2-ungrouped carbonaceous chondrite that fell on 25 August 2020, preserving evidence of aqueous alteration in the early Solar System.

Its primitive composition and unique classification make it an important meteorite for understanding the role of water and organic processes in planetary formation.

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Tarda Main Mass 149.50 g | Oriented C2-ungrouped Carbonaceous Chondrit

Tarda Main Mass 149.50 g | Oriented C2-ungrouped Carbonaceous Chondrit 2

Tarda Meteorite – Carbonaceous Chondrite (C2-ungrouped)

Tarda Main Mass, C2-ungrouped Oriented Meteorite – 149.50 g - Price on Request

The 149.50 g main mass of Tarda, a scientifically important meteorite that fell on 25 August 2020. This C2-ungrouped carbonaceous chondrite, preserving traces of aqueous alteration from the early Solar System, is distinguished by its naturally oriented form, a nose-like leading end, fresh black fusion crust, and contrasting pale impact marks acquired on...

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A Rare Carbonaceous Chondrite

Tarda is classified as a C2-ungrouped carbonaceous chondrite, placing it among the most primitive meteorites known. Carbonaceous chondrites are valued for preserving early Solar System material, largely unchanged since their formation.

Its ungrouped classification highlights its distinct composition, setting it apart from well-defined carbonaceous chondrite groups.

A Witnessed Fall

Tarda fell on 25 August 2020 in Morocco, making it a recent witnessed fall. Such events provide fresh material with minimal terrestrial alteration, enhancing both scientific and collector value.

The preservation state of Tarda contributes significantly to its importance.

Evidence of Water in the Early Solar System

One of the defining features of Tarda is the presence of aqueous alteration, indicating interaction with liquid water on its parent body.

This makes it a key specimen for studying:

Water activity in primitive asteroids
Early Solar System chemistry
The role of water in planetary evolution

Primitive Composition

As a carbonaceous chondrite, Tarda retains a primitive chemical composition rich in volatile elements and organic compounds.

Such meteorites are among the most scientifically valuable materials available for understanding the building blocks of planets.

Scientific Importance

Tarda contributes to research on:

Primitive solar nebula material
Hydration processes in early asteroids
The origin of water and organic matter in the Solar System

Its ungrouped nature makes it particularly important, as it may represent a previously unsampled parent body.

Collector Interest

Due to its recent fall, rarity, and classification, Tarda is highly sought after by collectors. Fresh carbonaceous chondrites are especially desirable due to their scientific relevance and limited availability.

Each specimen represents a direct sample of early Solar System material.

Available Specimens

The specimens presented in this category include selected pieces of the Tarda meteorite.

→ View the main mass Tarda specimen

FAQ

What type of meteorite is Tarda?

Tarda is a C2-ungrouped carbonaceous chondrite.

Why is Tarda important?

It preserves evidence of aqueous alteration and primitive Solar System material.

When did Tarda fall?

It fell on 25 August 2020.

Is Tarda rare?

Yes, it is a rare and scientifically important carbonaceous chondrite.

What makes it unique?

Its ungrouped classification and preservation of water-related alteration processes.