Oued Chebeika 002 – CI1 Carbonaceous Chondrite

An Exceptionally Rare Meteorite

Oued Chebeika 002 (OC 002) belongs to the CI1 group of carbonaceous chondrites, one of the rarest and most scientifically important classes of meteorites. Only a very limited number of CI chondrites are known worldwide.

This group includes historically significant meteorites such as Orgueil and Ivuna, making OC 002 part of an extremely exclusive category.

A Composition Close to the Solar Nebula

CI chondrites are unique in that their bulk chemical composition closely matches that of the solar photosphere for non-volatile elements. This makes them fundamental reference materials in cosmochemistry.

They are considered among the most primitive meteorites, preserving material that has undergone minimal fractionation since the formation of the Solar System.

Extensive Aqueous Alteration

Oued Chebeika 002 exhibits strong aqueous alteration, indicating that its parent body experienced significant interaction with liquid water.

This alteration transformed original minerals into hydrated phases such as phyllosilicates, recording early water activity in primitive asteroids.

Such features provide essential insights into:

• The presence of water in the early Solar System
• Hydration processes in primitive bodies
• The chemical evolution of planetary materials

Absence of Chondrules

Unlike most chondrites, CI meteorites are characterized by the absence of chondrules. Their fine-grained, homogeneous matrix reflects extensive alteration and reprocessing on the parent body.

This gives them a distinct appearance and places them apart from other carbonaceous chondrites.

Organic Matter and Primitive Chemistry

CI chondrites are known to contain organic compounds and volatile elements, making them critical for the study of prebiotic chemistry.

They provide valuable information on the distribution of organic matter in the early Solar System and its potential role in planetary evolution.

Scientific Importance

Oued Chebeika 002 is of exceptional importance for research into:

• Primitive Solar System composition
• Water-rich asteroids
• Organic chemistry in space
• Cosmochemical reference models

Due to their rarity, CI chondrites are intensively studied and rarely available outside institutional collections.

Collector Interest

CI chondrites are among the most sought-after meteorites by advanced collectors due to their extreme rarity and scientific importance.

Well-preserved specimens are exceptionally scarce, making each available piece highly significant.

Available Specimens

Selected material from Oued Chebeika 002 may be available in limited quantities.

→ View available Oued Chebeika 002 specimen

FAQ

What is Oued Chebeika 002?

It is a CI1 carbonaceous chondrite, one of the rarest types of meteorites.

Why are CI chondrites important?

Their composition closely matches that of the early Solar System, making them key reference materials.

Do CI meteorites contain chondrules?

No, they are characterized by the absence of chondrules.

What makes Oued Chebeika 002 rare?

CI chondrites are extremely scarce, with only a few known examples worldwide.

Is material available for collectors?

Only very limited amounts are available, making them highly desirable.