Exceptional complete specimen of the Martian meteorite Tissint, weighing 220 g, preserving its entire natural fusion crust. The surface displays well-developed regmaglyptes associated with distinct flow lines, recording dynamic ablation processes during atmospheric entry. A rare example of a large Tissint stone that remained intact upon impact.
Tissint – Martian Meteorite (2011 Fall)
This remarkable 220 g specimen of Tissint represents an exceptional example of a complete Martian meteorite preserving its original external features. Tissint fell in 2011 in Morocco (18th july 2011) and is classified as a basaltic shergottite, derived from volcanic rocks formed on the surface of Mars.
The meteorite retains a continuous and well-preserved glossy fusion crust over its entire surface. Numerous regmaglyptes are visible and are accompanied by clearly defined flow lines, reflecting the movement of molten material during atmospheric entry. These combined features record sustained surface ablation under intense thermal and aerodynamic stress.
What makes this specimen particularly remarkable is its mass and integrity. Tissint meteorites are known for their tendency to fragment violently upon impact, resulting in a large number of small pieces. Complete stones of this size are therefore extremely uncommon. The preservation of an intact specimen weighing 220 g, without significant breakage, places this meteorite among the rarer examples of the Tissint fall.
As a witnessed Martian fall with minimal terrestrial alteration, Tissint holds major scientific importance. Its fresh state has allowed detailed studies of Martian magmatic processes, shock features, and volatile components. In this specimen, the combination of large mass, complete preservation, and well-developed ablation features makes it particularly suitable for advanced private collections or institutional display.
