The Aletai meteorite is a massive iron meteorite discovered in the Xinjiang region of northwestern China. Its story began in 1898 with the discovery of a 28-ton mass, but additional fragments recovered over the following century revealed something extraordinary. The meteorite’s pieces were scattered across approximately 430 kilometers (267 miles), forming the longest known meteorite strewn field on Earth. Scientists believe the asteroid entered Earth’s atmosphere at an unusually shallow angle, breaking apart and scattering enormous fragments across the landscape. Classified as an anomalous IIIE iron meteorite, Aletai originated from the metallic interior of an ancient asteroid more than 4.5 billion years ago. 

This 97 gram iron-nickel meteorite is a beautiful representation of what was once the core of a former planet or differentiated asteroid. This full slice has been etched to reveal the Widmanstätten pattern unique to certain iron meteorites. This distinctive, interwoven crystalline structure was formed by the slow cooling of metal alloys over millions of years in space. Its unique geometric design not only makes iron meteorites visually striking but also provides valuable insight into the cooling history of planetary cores. 

Aletai specimens are especially prized by collectors for their distinctive metallic composition, beautiful Widmanstätten patterns, and extraordinary discovery history, with massive fragments recovered across the longest known meteorite strewn field on Earth.

Official Meteoritical Bulletin Entry for Aletai: https://www.lpi.usra.edu/meteor/metbull.cfm?code=64400

This meteorite is not just a collectible; it’s an educational tool that brings the mystery and science of space directly into your hands.

Your purchase includes the exact meteorite pictured, a Certificate of Authenticity, a laser-etched placard, and a stand for display.

Unique Features of This Meteorite

Iron meteorites likely originate from the cores of differentiated planetesimals or protoplanets that formed early in the solar system’s history. These hefty space rocks are mostly made of iron and nickel. They're like cosmic cannonballs! When cut and polished, many show off a beautiful criss-cross pattern called the Widmanstätten pattern. Iron meteorites are prized by collectors for their striking appearance and durability.

--Widmanstätten Pattern--

A distinctive, interwoven crystalline structure found in iron meteorites, formed by the slow cooling of metal alloys over millions of years in space. This pattern, composed of nickel-iron crystals called kamacite and taenite, becomes visible when the meteorite is cut, polished, and etched with acid. Its unique geometric design not only makes iron meteorites visually striking but also provides valuable insight into the cooling history of planetary cores.