bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Yamato 86029: Aqueously altered and thermally metamorphosed CI‐like chondrite with unusual textures
Authors: TONUI Eric K. , ZOLENSKY Michael E. , LIPSCHUTZ Michael E. , WANG Ming‐Sheng , NAKAMURA Tomoki
Published: January 2010

Abstract— We describe the petrologic and trace element characteristics of the Yamato 86029 (Y‐86029) meteorite. Y‐86029 is a breccia consisting of a variety of clasts, and abundant secondary minerals including coarse‐ and fine‐grained phyllosilicates, Fe‐Ni sulfides, carbonates, and magnetite. There are no chondrules, but a few anhydrous olivine‐rich grains are present within a very fine‐grained phyllosilicate‐rich matrix.

Analyses of 14 thermally mobile trace elements suggest that Y‐86029 experienced moderate, open‐system thermal metamorphism. Comparison with data for other heated carbonaceous chondrites suggests metamorphic temperatures of 500–600°C for Y‐86029. This is apparent petrographically, in partial dehydration of phyllosilicates to incompletely re‐crystallized olivine. This transformation appears to proceed through ‘intermediate’ highly‐disordered ‘poorly crystalline’ phases consisting of newly formed olivine and residual desiccated phyllosilicate and their mixtures. Periclase is also present as a possible heating product of Mg‐rich carbonate precursors.

Y‐86029 shows unusual textures rarely encountered in carbonaceous chondrites. The periclase occurs as unusually large Fe‐rich clasts (300–500 μm). Fine‐grained carbonates with uniform texture are also present as small (10–15 μm in diameter), rounded to sub‐rounded ‘shells’ of ankerite/siderite enclosing magnetite. These carbonates appear to have formed by low temperature aqueous alteration at specific thermal decomposition temperatures consistent with thermodynamic models of carbonate formation. The fine and uniform texture suggests crystallization from a fluid circulating in interconnected spaces throughout entire growth. One isolated aggregate in Y‐86029 also consists of a mosaic of polycrystalline olivine aggregates and sulfide blebs typical of shock‐induced melt re‐crystallization.

Except for these unusual textures, the isotopic, petrologic and chemical characteristics of Y‐86029 are quite similar to those of Y‐82162, the only other heated CI‐like chondrite known. They were probably derived from similar asteroids rather than one asteroid, and hence may not necessarily be paired.
TOF‐SIMS analysis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in Allan Hills 84001
Authors: Stephan THomas , Jessberger Elmar K. , Heiss Christian H. , Rost Detlef
Published: January 2010

Abstract— The presence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the Martian meteorite Allan Hills 84001 (ALH 84001) was considered to be a major sign of ancient biogenic activity on planet Mars (McKay et al. 1996). An asserted spatial association of PAHs with carbonates, carriers of so‐called nanofossils, was crucial for their suggested connection to early life forms. Although both observations can be explained individually without employing living organisms, a lateral correlation of PAHs and carbonates would suggest a genetic link between PAHs and the microstructures, favoring a biogenic explanation. On the other hand, without such a correlation, a biogenic or even a Martian origin of the PAHs cannot be inferred. Here we show that there is no correlation of PAHs and carbonates in ALH 84001. Furthermore, a general trend of high PAH concentrations at locations where terrestrial lead is present obviously suggests a terrestrial origin for PAHs in ALH 84001.
Differentiation of metal‐rich meteoritic parent bodies: I. Measurements of PGEs, Re, Mo, W, and Au in meteoritic Fe‐Ni metal
Authors: PETAEV M. I. , JACOBSEN S. B.
Published: January 2010

Abstract— We describe an analytical technique for measurements of Fe, Ni, Co, Mo, Ru, Rh, W, Re, Os, Ir, Pt, and Au in bulk samples of iron meteorites. The technique involves EPMA (Fe, Ni, Co) and LA‐ICP‐MS analyses of individual phases of iron meteorites, followed by calculation of bulk compositions based on the abundances of these phases. We report, for the first time, a consistent set of concentrations of Mo, Ru, Rh, Pd, W, Re, Os, Ir, Pt, and Au in the iron meteorites Arispe, Bennett County, Grant, Cape of Good Hope, Cape York, Carbo, Chinga, Coahuila, Duchesne, Gibeon, Henbury, Mundrabilla, Negrillos, Odessa, Sikhote‐Alin, and Toluca and the Divnoe primitive achondrite. The comparison of our LA‐ICP‐MS data for a number of iron meteorites with high‐precision isotope dilution and INAA data demonstrates the good precision and accuracy of our technique.

The narrow ranges of variations of Mo and Pd concentrations within individual groups of iron meteorites suggest that these elements can provide important insights into the evolution of parent bodies of iron meteorites. Under certain assumptions, the Mo concentrations can be used to estimate mass fractions of the metal‐sulfide cores in the parent bodies of iron meteorites. It appears that a range of Pd variations within a group of iron meteorites can serve as a useful indicator of S content in the core of its parent body.
Do comets have chondrules and CAIs? Evidence from the Leonid meteors
Authors: SWINDLE Timothy D. , CAMPINS Humberto
Published: January 2010

Abstract— Chondrules, silicate spheres typically 0.1 to 1 mm in diameter, are the most abundant constituents in the most common meteorites falling on Earth, the ordinary chondrites. In addition, many primitive meteorites have calcium‐aluminum‐rich inclusions (CAIs). The question of whether comets have chondrules or CAIs is relevant to understanding what the interior of a comet is like and what a cometary meteorite might be like. In addition, one prominent model for forming chondrules and CAIs, the X‐wind model, predicts their presence in comets, while most other models do not. At present, the best way to search for chondrules and CAIs in comets is through meteor showers derived from comets, in particular, the Leonid meteor shower. Evidence potentially could be found in the overall mass distribution of the shower, in chemical analyses of meteors, or in light curves. There is no evidence for a chondrule abundance in the Leonid meteors similar to that found in chondritic meteorites. There is intriguing evidence for chondrule‐ or CAI‐sized objects in a small fraction of the light curves, but further work is required to generate a definitive test.
Martian xenon components in Shergotty mineral separates: Locations, sources, and trapping mechanisms
Authors: OCKER K. D. , GILMOUR J. D.
Published: January 2010

Abstract— Isotopic signatures and concentrations of xenon have been measured in Shergotty mineral separates by laser step heating. Martian atmosphere and ‘martian interior’ xenon are present, as is a spallation component. Martian atmospheric xenon is 5–10 times more concentrated in opaque minerals (magnetite, ilmenite, and pyrrhotite) and maskelynite than in pyroxenes, perhaps reflecting grain size variation. This is shown to be consistent with shock incorporation. A component consisting of solar xenon with a fission contribution, similar to components previously identified in martian meteorites and associated with the martian interior, is best defined in the pyroxene‐dominated separates. This component exhibits a consistent 129Xe (129Xe/132Xe ˜1.2) excess over solar/planetary (129Xe/132Xe ˜1.04). We suggest that gas present in the melt, perhaps a mixture of interior xenon and martian atmosphere, was incorporated into the pyroxenes in Shergotty as the minerals crystallized.
The lherzolitic shergottite Grove Mountains 99027: Rare earth element geochemistry
Authors: Hsu Weibiao , Guan Yunbin , Wang Henian , Leshin Laurie A. , Wang Rucheng , Zhang Wenlan , Chen Xiaoming , Zhang Fusheng , Lin Chengyi
Published: January 2010

Abstract— We report here on an ion probe study of rare earth element (REE) geochemistry in the lherzolitic shergottite Grove Mountains (GRV) 99027. This meteorite shows almost identical mineralogy, petrology, and REE geochemistry to those of the lherzolitic shergottites Allan Hills (ALH) A77005, Lewis Cliff (LEW) 88516, and Yamato (Y‐) 793605. REE concentrations in olivine, pyroxenes, maskelynite, merrillite, and melt glass are basically comparable to previous data obtained from ALH A77005, LEW 88516, and Y‐793605. Olivine is the dominant phase in this meteorite. It is commonly enclosed by large (up to several mm) pigeonite oikocrysts. Non‐poikilitic areas consist of larger olivine grains (˜mm), pigeonite, augite, and maskelynite. Minor merrillite (up to 150 μm in size) is widespread in non‐poikilitic regions, occurring interstitially between olivine and pyroxene grains. It is the main REE carrier in GRV 99027 and has relatively higher REEs (200–1000 × CI) than that of other lherzolitic shergottites. A REE budget calculation for GRV 99027 yields a whole rock REE pattern very similar to that of other lherzolites. It is characterized by the distinctive light REE depletion and a smooth increase from light REEs to heavy REEs. REE microdistributions in GRV 99027 strongly support the idea that all lherzolitic shergottites formed by identical igneous processes, probably from the same magma chamber on Mars.

Despite many similarities in mineralogy, petrography, and trace element geochemistry, subtle differences exist between GRV 99027 and other lherzolitic shergottites. GRV 99027 has relatively uniform mineral compositions (both major elements and REEs), implying that it suffered a higher degree of sub‐solidus equilibration than the other three lherzolites. It is notable that GRV 99027 has experienced terrestrial weathering in the Antarctic environment, as its olivine and pyroxenes commonly display a light REE enrichment and a negative Ce anomaly. Caution needs to be taken in future chronological studies.
40Ar‐39Ar studies of whole rock nakhlites: Evidence for the timing of formation and aqueous alteration on Mars
Authors: Swindle Timothy D. , Olson Eric K.
Published: January 2010

Abstract— 20–25 mg whole rock samples of the nakhlites Lafayette and Nakhla have been analyzed via the 40Ar‐39Ar technique, in part to verify their formation ages, but primarily, in an attempt to determine the timing of aqueous alteration in these martian meteorites. As in previous studies, plateaus in apparent age are observed at about 1300 Ma (1322 ± 10 for Lafayette, 1332 ± 10 and 1323 ± 11 for Nakhla), presumably corresponding to crystallization ages. The plateaus are not entirely flat, perhaps reflecting the effects of recoil during creation of 39Ar in the nuclear irradiation. The first 5–20% of the K‐derived Ar released from all three samples give apparent ages <1300 Ma. Coupled with the fact that chronometric isotopic studies of nakhlites typically show some disturbance, we believe the low temperature pattern represents more recent (than 1300 Ma) formation of martian aqueous alteration products such as iddingsite. No low temperature plateaus are observed. This is consistent with petrographic evidence for multiple formation events, although the lack of low temperature plateaus is far from conclusive. On the other hand, if there was a single time of alteration, we believe that it will be difficult, if not impossible, to determine it using the K‐Ar system.
Investigation of ion beam techniques for the analysis and exposure of particles encapsulated by silica aerogel: Applicability for Stardust
Authors: GRAHAM G. A. , GRANT P. G. , CHATER R. J. , WESTPHAL A. J. , KEARSLEY A. T. , SNEAD C. , DOMÍNGUEZ G. , BUTTERWORTH A. L. , McPHAIL D. S. , BENCH G. , BRADLEY J. P.
Published: January 2010

Abstract— In 2006, the Stardust spacecraft will return to Earth with cometary and perhaps interstellar dust particles embedded in silica aerogel collectors for analysis in terrestrial laboratories. These particles will be the first sample return from a solid planetary body since the Apollo missions. In preparation for the return, analogue particles were implanted into a keystone of silica aerogel that had been extracted from bulk silica aerogel using the optical technique described in Westphal et al. (2004). These particles were subsequently analyzed using analytical techniques associated with the use of a nuclear microprobe. The particles have been analyzed using: a) scanning transmission ion microscopy (STIM) that enables quantitative density imaging; b) proton elastic scattering analysis (PESA) and proton backscattering (PBS) for the detection of light elements including hydrogen; and c) proton‐induced X‐ray emission (PIXE) for elements with Z > 11. These analytical techniques have enabled us to quantify the composition of the encapsulated particles. A significant observation from the study is the variable column density of the silica aerogel. We also observed organic contamination within the silica aerogel. The implanted particles were then subjected to focused ion beam (FIB) milling using a 30 keV gallium ion beam to ablate silica aerogel in site‐specific areas to expose embedded particles. An ion polished flat surface of one of the particles was also prepared using the FIB. Here, we show that ion beam techniques have great potential in assisting with the analysis and exposure of Stardust particles.
Analyses of the chondritic meteorite Orvinio (H6): Insight into the origins and evolution of shocked H chondrite material
Authors: GRIER Jennifer A. , KRING David A. , SWINDLE Timothy D. , RIVKIN Andrew S. , COHEN Barbara A. , BRITT Daniel T.
Published: January 2010

Abstract— We have studied the petrography, reflectance spectra, and Ar‐Ar systematics of the Orivinio meteorite. Orvinio is an H chondrite not an L chondrite as sometimes reported. The material in the meteorite was involved in several impact events. One impact event produced large swaths of impact melt from H chondrite material surrounding relict clasts of chondrule‐bearing material. Not only were portions of a bulk H chondrite planestesimal melted during the impact event, but shock redistribution of metal and sulfide phases in the meteorite dramatically altered its reflectance spectra. Both the melt and relict clasts are darker than unshocked H chondrite material, bearing spectral similarities to some C‐class asteroids. Such shock metamorphism, which lowers the albedo of an object without increasing its spectral slope, may partially explain some of the variation among S‐class asteroids and some of the trends seen on asteroid 433 Eros. Noble gases record the evidence of at least two, and perhaps three, impact events in the meteorite and its predecessor rocks. The most significant evidence is for an event that occurred 600 Ma ago or less, perhaps ˜325 Ma ago or less. There is also a signature of 4.2 Ga in the Ar‐Ar systematics, which could either reflect complete degassing of the rock at that time or partial degassing of even the most retentive sites in the more recent event.
Observations at terrestrial impact structures: Their utility in constraining crater formation
Authors: Grieve Richard A. F. , Therriault Ann M.
Published: January 2010

Abstract— Hypervelocity impact involves the near instantaneous transfer of considerable energy from the impactor to a spatially limited near‐surface volume of the target body. Local geology of the target area tends to be of secondary importance, and the net result is that impacts of similar size on a given planetary body produce similar results. This is the essence of the utility of observations at impact craters, particularly terrestrial craters, in constraining impact processes. Unfortunately, there are few well‐documented results from systematic contemporaneous campaigns to characterize specific terrestrial impact structures with the full spectrum of geoscientific tools available at the time. Nevertheless, observations of the terrestrial impact record have contributed substantially to fundamental properties of impact. There is a beginning of convergence and mutual testing of observations at terrestrial impact structures and the results of modeling, in particular from recent hydrocode models. The terrestrial impact record provides few constraints on models of ejecta processes beyond a confirmation of the involvement of the local substrate in ejecta lithologies and shows that Z‐models are, at best, first order approximations. Observational evidence to date suggests that the formation of interior rings is an extension of the structural uplift process that occurs at smaller complex impact structures. There are, however, major observational gaps and cases, e.g., Vredefort, where current observations and hydrocode models are apparently inconsistent. It is, perhaps, time that the impact community as a whole considers documenting the existing observational and modeling knowledge gaps that are required to be filled to make the intellectual breakthroughs equivalent to those of the 1970s and 1980s, which were fueled by observations at terrestrial impact structures. Filling these knowledge gaps would likely be centered on the later stages of formation of complex and ring structures and on ejecta.
Tectonic influences on the morphometry of the Sudbury impact structure: Implications for terrestrial cratering and modeling
Authors: Spray John G. , Butler Hadyn R. , Thompson Lucy M.
Published: January 2010

Abstract— Impact structures developed on active terrestrial planets (Earth and Venus) are susceptible to pre‐impact tectonic influences on their formation. This means that we cannot expect them to conform to ideal cratering models, which are commonly based on the response of a homogeneous target devoid of pre‐existing flaws. In the case of the 1.85 Ga Sudbury impact structure of Ontario, Canada, considerable influence has been exerted on modification stage processes by late Archean to early Proterozoic basement faults. Two trends are dominant: 1) the NNW‐striking Onaping Fault System, which is parallel to the 2.47 Ga Matachewan dyke swarm, and 2) the ENE‐striking Murray Fault System, which acted as a major Paleoproterozoic suture zone that contributed to the development of the Huronian sedimentary basin between 2.45–2.2 Ga. Sudbury has also been affected by syn‐ to post‐impact regional deformation and metamorphism: the 1.9–1.8 Ga Penokean orogeny, which involved NNW‐directed reverse faulting, uplift, and transpression at mainly greenschist facies grade, and the 1.16–0.99 Ga Grenville orogeny, which overprinted the SE sector of the impact structure to yield a polydeformed upper amphibolite facies terrain. The pre‐, syn‐, and post‐impact tectonics of the region have rendered the Sudbury structure a complicated feature. Careful reconstruction is required before its original morphometry can be established. This is likely to be true for many impact structures developed on active terrestrial planets.

Based on extensive field work, combined with remote sensing and geophysical data, four ring systems have been identified at Sudbury. The inner three rings broadly correlate with pseudotachylyte (friction melt) ‐rich fault systems. The first ring has a diameter of ˜90 km and defines what is interpreted to be the remains of the central uplift. The second ring delimits the collapsed transient cavity diameter at ˜130 km and broadly corresponds to the original melt sheet diameter. The third ring has a diameter of ˜180 km. The fourth ring defines the suggested apparent crater diameter at ˜260 km. This approximates the final rim diameter, given that erosion in the North Range is <6 km and the ring faults are steeply dipping. Impact damage beyond Ring 4 may occur, but has not yet been identified in the field. One or more rings within the central uplift (Ring 1) may also exist. This form and concentric structure indicates that Sudbury is a peak ring or, more probably, a multi‐ring basin. These parameters provide the foundation for modeling the formation of this relatively large terrestrial impact structure.
Mass‐velocity distributions of fragments in oblique impact cratering on gypsum
Authors: Onose Naomi , Fujiwara Akira
Published: January 2010

Abstract— Oblique impact cratering experiments into gypsum targets were performed, and masses and velocities of the fragments were measured within the observational limit of 0.1–100 m/s in velocity and 0.0003–1 g in mass. The fragments observed were divided in two groups according to ejection time: early fragments ejected conically within a few msec after the impact followed by late fragments consisting of hundreds of slow, small fragments ejected almost perpendicular to the target. The relationship between mass and velocity of early fragments was observed to follow a power law with an exponent of −0.11 ± 0.06, consistent with previous studies (e.g., Nakamura and Fujiwara 1991; Giblin et al. 1998). The cumulative number of fragments heavier or equal to a given mass versus fragment mass distributions shows a power law exponent of −1.49 ± 0.09 for late fragments and steeper than −0.49 ± 0.18 for early fragments. More than 10% of the mass was ejected from the crater with ejection speed slower than 2 m/s. Those fragments will reaccumulate on porous (<1500 kg/m3) and small (<4 km in diameter) asteroids.
Spectacular fall of the Kendrapara H5 chondrite
Authors: Dhingra D. , Bhandari N. , Shukla P. N. , Murty S. V. S. , Mahajan R. R. , Ballabh G. M. , Lashkari G. , Shukla A. D. , Parthasarathy G.
Published: January 2010

Abstract— An extremely bright fireball was seen for over 250 km near the eastern coast of India in the evening sky on September 27, 2003. In a rare observation, the fireball was seen by two airline pilots, providing direction of the trail with reasonable accuracy, consistent with ground‐based observations. A few fragments of the meteorite were subsequently recovered along the end of the trail in different parts of Kendrapara district (20°30′ N; 86°26′ E) of Orissa. Based on petrography and chemical composition, the meteorite is classified as H5 chondrite. The cosmogenic radionuclides54Mn,22Na,60Co, and26Al and tracks have been studied in this stony meteorite. Two of the fragments show an unusually high activity of60Co (˜160 dpm/kg) indicating a meteoroid radius of 50–150 cm. Assuming that less than 10% (by weight) of the fragments could be recovered because of difficult terrain, an atmospheric mass ablation of >95% is estimated. Based on the observations of the trail and the estimated mass ablation, orbital parameters of the meteoroid have been calculated. The aphelion is found to lie in the asteroidal belt (1.8–2.4 AU), but the inclination of the orbit is large (22°–26°) with respect to the ecliptic. Noble gases have been analysed in two samples of this meteorite. He and Ne are dominantly cosmogenic. Using production rates based on the sample depth derived from60Co content,21Ne‐based exposure age of 4.50 ± 0.45 Ma is derived for Kendrapara. One of the samples, known to be more deeply shielded based on high60Co activity, shows the presence of80Kr,82Kr, and128Xe produced by (n, γ) reaction on79Br,81Br, and127I, respectively. The (80Kr/82Kr)n ratio of 3.5 ± 0.9 is consistent with neutrons being mostly thermal. Trapped84Kr and132Xe are in the expected range for metamorphic grade H5.
An anthropogenic origin of the “Sirente crater,” Abruzzi, Italy
Authors: Speranza Fabio , Sagnotti Leonardo , Rochette Pierre
Published: January 2010

Abstract— In this paper, we review the recent hypothesis, based mostly on geomorphological features, that a ∼130 m‐wide sag pond, surrounded by a saddle‐shaped rim from the Sirente plain (Abruzzi, Italy), is the first‐discovered meteoritic crater of Italy. Sub‐circular depressions (hosting ponds), with geomorphological features and size very similar to those exhibited by the main Sirente sag, are exposed in other neighboring intermountain karstic plains from Abruzzi. We have sampled present‐day soils from these sag ponds and from the Sirente sags (both the main “crater” and some smaller ones, recently interpreted as a crater field) and various Abruzzi paleosols from excavated trenches with an age range encompassing the estimated age of the “Sirente crater.” For all samples, we measured the magnetic susceptibility and determined the Ni and Cr contents of selected specimens. The results show that the magnetic susceptibility values and the geochemical composition are similar for all samples (from Sirente and other Abruzzi sags) and are both significantly different from the values reported for soils contaminated by meteoritic dust. No solid evidence pointing at an impact origin exists, besides the circular shape and rim of the main sag. The available observations and data suggest that the “Sirente crater,” together with analogous large sags in the Abruzzi intermountain plains, have to be attributed to the historical phenomenon of “transumanza” (seasonal migration of sheep and shepherds), a custom that for centuries characterized the basic social‐economical system of the Abruzzi region. Such sags were excavated to provide water for millions of sheep, which spent summers in the Abruzzi karstic high pasture lands, on carbonatic massifs deprived of natural superficial fresh water. Conversely, the distribution of the smaller sags from the Sirente plain correlates with the local pattern of the calcareous bedrock and, together with the characteristics of their internal structure, are best interpreted as natural dolines. In fact, reported radiocarbon ages for the formation of the main sag pond and of the smaller sags differ (significantly) by more than two millennia, thus excluding that they were all contemporaneously formed by a meteoritic impact.
Osmium isotope constraints on the proportion of bolide component in Chicxulub impact melt rocks
Authors: Gelinas A. , Kring D. A. , Zurcher L. , Urrutia‐Fucugauchi J. , Morton O. , Walker R. J.
Published: January 2010

Abstract— The spatial distribution and amount of material transferred from the bolide involved in the Cretaceous/Tertiary (K/T) event to the target rocks at Chicxulub is still poorly constrained. In this study, Re‐Os isotopic analyses of impact melt breccias and lithic clasts from the Yaxcopoil‐1 (Yax‐1) borehole were used to determine the distribution and proportion of the bolide component in the target rocks. Because of the much greater concentration of Os in chondritic meteorites compared to the target rocks, little addition of the bolide component would be necessary to greatly perturb the Os concentration and isotopic composition of target rocks. Hence, this is a very sensitive means of examining bolide contributions to the target rocks. For the examined suite of samples, the initial 187Os/188Os ratios vary from 0.19 to 2.3. Conservative mixing calculations suggest that the bolide component comprised as much as approximately 0.1%, by mass, of some samples. Most samples, however, have negligible contributions from the bolide. No samples have Os that is dominated by the bolide component, so for this suite of samples, it is impossible to fingerprint the chemical nature of the bolide using relative abundances of siderophile elements. These results suggest that the bolide did not contribute a significant amount of material to the target rocks. This may, in turn, indicate that most of the bolide was vaporized upon impact or otherwise ejected without mixing with the melt from the target.
Structure and impact indicators of the Cretaceous sequence of the ICDP drill core Yaxcopoil‐1, Chicxulub impact crater, Mexico
Authors: KENKMANN T. , WITTMANN A. , SCHERLER D.
Published: January 2010

Abstract As part of the ICDP Chicxulub Scientific Drilling Project, the Yaxcopoil‐1 (Yax‐1) bore hole was drilled 60 km south‐southwest of the center of the 180 km‐diameter Chicxulub impact structure down to a depth of 1511 m. A sequence of 615 m of deformed Cretaceous carbonates and sulfates was recovered below a 100 m‐thick unit of suevitic breccias and 795 m of post‐impact Tertiary rocks. The Cretaceous rocks are investigated with respect to deformation features and shock metamorphism to better constrain the deformational overprint and the kinematics of the cratering process. The sequence displays variable degrees of impact‐induced brittle damage and post‐impact brittle deformation. The degree of tilting and faulting of the Cretaceous sequence was analyzed using 360°‐core scans and dip‐meter log data. In accordance with lithological information, these data suggest that the sedimentary sequence represents a number of structural units that are tilted and moved with respect to each other. Three main units and nine sub‐units were discriminated. Brittle deformation is most intense at the top of the sequence and at 1300–1400 m. Within these zones, suevitic dikes, polymict clastic dikes, and impact melt rock dikes occur and may locally act as decoupling horizons. The degree of brittle deformation depends on lithology; massive dolomites are affected by penetrative faulting, while stratified calcarenites and bituminous limestones display localized faulting. The deformation pattern is consistent with a collapse scenario of the Chicxulub transient crater cavity. It is believed that the Cretaceous sequence was originally located outside the transient crater cavity and eventually moved downward and toward the center to its present position between the peak ring and the crater rim, thereby separating into blocks. Whether or not the stack of deformed Cretaceous blocks was already displaced during the excavation process remains an open question. The analysis of the deformation microstructure indicates that a shock metamorphic overprint is restricted to dike injections with an exception of the so called “paraconglomerate.” Abundant organic matter in the Yax‐1 core was present before the impact and was mobilized by impact‐induced heating and suggests that >12 km3 of organic material was excavated during the cratering process.
Chicxulub: Testing for post‐impact hydrothermal input into the Tertiary ocean
Authors: ROWE A. J. , WILKINSON J. J. , COLES B. J. , MORGAN J. V.
Published: January 2010

Abstract Studies of large terrestrial impact craters indicate that post‐impact hydrothermal activity is a likely consequence of the crustal deformation and heating induced by such events. In the case of the Chicxulub basin, where marine conditions were re‐established soon after the impact, significant fluxing of seawater through the crust and hydrothermal venting into the water column might be anticipated. We have carried out geochemical analyses of Tertiary carbonate sediments within the Yaxcopoil‐1 (Yax‐1) drill hole to test for evidence of such post‐impact hydrothermal circulation. Hydrothermal activity is most likely to be found close to thick layers of melt rock inside the collapsed transient cavity, and it is estimated that Yax‐1 is located ˜20 km outside this cavity. Consequently, the most likely signature of hydrothermal venting into the water column would be geochemical anomalies attributable to fallout of suspended particulate matter from a submarine hydrothermal plume.

Samples of Tertiary biomicrites from depths of 794.01 to 777.02 m have high concentrations of manganese, iron, phosphorous, titanium, and aluminium and low iron/manganese ratios relative to samples from higher in the stratigraphic succession. This geochemical anomaly decreases fairly systematically between 793.13 m and 777.02 m, above which an abrupt change in geochemistry is observed. A mass balance calculation suggests that the anomaly is unlikely to be the result of a decreasing detrital input to the carbonate sediments and the nature of the element enrichments is consistent with expectations for fallout from a distal hydrothermal plume. We conclude that a post‐impact hydrothermal system did develop at Chicxulub, which led to the expulsion of hydrothermal fluids into the Tertiary water column. Preliminary biostratigraphic and magnetostratigraphic dating on Yax‐1 core suggest that this hydrothermal activity lasted for at least 300 ka.
The gentle separation of presolar SiC grains from meteorites
Authors: Tizard J. , Lyon I. , Henkel T.
Published: January 2010

Abstract— This paper describes the development of a new, effective, and non‐destructive method of SiC isolation from meteorites by freeze‐thaw disaggregation, size, and density separation. This new method is important because there is evidence that current methods, which use strong acids and chemical treatments to dissolve silicates and separate out the interstellar grains, may alter the surfaces of the grains chemically and isotopically. Furthermore, any non‐refractory coating present on the grains would be destroyed. Using our new separation method, SiC grains were enriched from ˜6 ppm abundance in Murchison whole rock to 0.67% abundance in the 0.4‐1.4 μm size range and 0.27% abundance in the 1.4–17 μm size range. Individual SiC grains were easily identified using electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) mapping of grains distributed thinly on gold foil; a small aliquot from these fractions has so far yielded >150 SiC grains for isotopic analysis. The method separates out SiC grains efficiently, is applicable to very small or rare samples, and avoids the harsh acid treatments that may alter possible amorphous or non‐refractory coats on the grains. The procedure also preserves the remainder of the original sample and it is hoped that it may be extended to other micron‐sized presolar grains found in meteorites such as corundum, graphite, and silicon nitride.
The non‐igneous genesis of angrites: Support from trace element distribution between phases in D'Orbigny
Authors: Varela María Eugenia , Kurat Gero , Zinner Ernst , Hoppe Peter , Ntaflos Theodoros , Nazarov Mikhail A.
Published: January 2010

Abstract—D'Orbigny is an exceptional angrite. Chemically, it resembles other angrites such as Asuka‐881371, Sahara 99555, Lewis Cliff (LEW) 87051, and LEW 86010, but its structure and texture are peculiar. It has a compact and porous lithology, abundant glasses, augite‐bearing druses, and chemical and mineralogical properties that are highly unusual for igneous rocks. Our previous studies led us to a new view on angrites: they can possibly be considered as CAIs that grew to larger sizes than the ones we know from carbonaceous chondrites. Thus, angrites may bear a record of rare and special conditions in some part of the early solar nebula. Here we report trace element contents of D'Orbigny phases. Trace element data were obtained from both the porous and the compact part of this meteorite. We have confronted our results with the popular igneous genetic model. According to this model, if all phases of D'Orbigny crystallized from the same system, as an igneous origin implies, a record of this genesis should be expressed in the distribution of trace elements among early and late phases. Our results show that the trace element distribution of the two contemporaneous phases olivine and plagioclase, which form the backbone of the rock, seem to require liquids of different composition. Abundances of highly incompatible elements in all olivines, including the megacrysts, indicate disequilibrium with the bulk rock and suggest liquids very rich in these elements (>10,000 x CI), which is much richer than any fractional crystallization could possibly produce. In addition, trace element contents of late phases are incompatible with formation from the bulk system's residual melt. These results add additional severe constraints to the many conflicts that existed previously between an igneous model for the origin of angrites and the mineralogical and chemical observations. This new trace element content data, reported here, corroborate our previous results based on the shape, structure, mineralogy, chemical, and isotopic data of the whole meteorite, as well as on a petrographic and chemical composition study of all types of glasses and give strength to a new genetic model that postulates that D'Orbigny (and possibly all angrites) could have formed in the solar nebula under changing redox conditions, more akin to chondritic constituents (e.g., CAIs) than to planetary differentiated rock.
Experimental reproduction of tectonic deformation lamellae in quartz and comparison to shock‐induced planar deformation features
Authors: Vernooij M. G. C. , Langenhorst F.
Published: January 2010

Abstract— Planar features can develop in quartz during comparatively slow tectonic deformation and during very fast dynamic shock metamorphism. Despite their very different structural nature, tectonically induced deformation lamellae have sometimes been mistaken as shock‐induced planar deformation features (PDFs). To understand the formation of deformation lamellae and to address the substantial differences between them and PDFs, we have conducted deformation experiments on single crystals of quartz in a Griggs‐type apparatus, at a temperature of 800 °C, a confining pressure of 12 kbar, and a strain rate of 0.7–1.1 · 10−6. The deformed samples were analyzed with transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and compared to natural PDFs from the Ries Crater, Germany. TEM revealed that tectonic deformation lamellae are associated with numerous sub‐parallel curved subgrain walls, across which the orientation of the crystal changes slightly. The formation of deformation lamellae is due to glide‐ and climb‐controlled deformation in the exponential creep regime. In contrast, the PDFs in shocked quartz from the Ries are perfectly planar, crystallographically controlled features that originally represented amorphous lamellae. Due to post‐shock annealing and hydrothermal activity they are recrystallized and decorated with fluid inclusions.
Fine‐grained dust rims in the Tagish Lake carbonaceous chondrite: Evidence for parent body alteration
Authors: Greshake Ansgar , Krot Alexander N. , Flynn George J. , Keil Klaus
Published: January 2010

Abstract— The Tagish Lake carbonaceous chondrite consists of heavily aqueously altered chondrules, CAIs, and larger mineral fragments in a fine‐grained, phyllosilicate‐dominated matrix. The vast majority of the coarse‐grained components in this meteorite are surrounded by continuous, 1.5 to >200 μm wide, fine‐grained, accretionary rims, which are well known from meteorites belonging to petrological types 2 and 3 and whose origin and modification is still a matter of debate. Texturally, the fine‐grained rims in Tagish Lake are very similar throughout the entire meteorite and independent of the nature of the enclosed object. They typically display sharp boundaries to the core object and more gradational contacts to the meteorite matrix. Compared to the matrix, the rims are much more finegrained and characterized by a significantly lower porosity. The rims consist of an unequilibrated assemblage of phyllosilicates, Fe,Ni sulfides, magnetites, low‐Ca pyroxenes, and forsteritic olivines, and are, except for a much lower abundance of carbonates, very similar to the Tagish Lake matrix. Electron microprobe and synchrotron X‐ray microprobe analyses show that matrix and rims are also very similar in composition and that the rims differ significantly from matrix and bulk meteorite only by being depleted in Ca. X‐ray elemental mapping and mineralogical observations indicate that Ca was lost during aqueous alteration from the enclosed objects and preferentially crystallized as carbonates in the porous matrix. The analyses also show that Ca is strongly fractionated from Al in the rims, whereas there is no fractionation of the Ti/Al‐ratios. Our data suggest that the fine‐grained rims in Tagish Lake initially formed by accretion in the solar nebula and were subsequently modified by in situ alteration on the parent body. This pervasive alteration removed any potential evidence for pre‐accretionary alteration but did not change the overall texture of the Tagish Lake meteorite.
Investigation of Shuttle Radar Topography Mission data of the possible impact structure at Serra da Cangalha, Brazil
Authors: Reimold Wolf U. , Cooper Gordon R. J. , Romano Rafael , Cowan Duncan R. , Koeberl Christian
Published: January 2010

Abstract— The Serra da Cangalha crater structure in northeast Brazil, ˜13 km in diameter, has long been widely considered to be a confirmed impact structure, based on reports of shatter cone findings. Only very limited field work has been carried out at this crater structure. Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM) and Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) data sets for the region around this crater structure are compared here with regard to their suitability to determine first‐order structural detail of impact crater structures. The SRTM data provide very detailed information regarding drainage patterns and topography. A pronounced central ring of up to 300 m elevation above the surrounding area, two comparatively subdued intermediate rings of 6 and 10.5 km diameter, respectively, and the broad, complex crater rim of up to >100 m elevation can be distinguished in the Serra da Cangalha data. The maximum cratering‐related regional deformation (radial and concentric features) seems to be limited to a radial distance of 16–18 km from the center of the structure. A first comparison of macrostructural information from several impact structures with that from Serra da Cangalha does not yield firm trends, but the database is still very small at this stage. The varied nature of the target geology strongly influences the development of structural features in any impact event.
Stratigraphy and composition of lava flows in Mare Nubium and Mare Cognitum
Authors: Bugiolacchi Roberto , Spudis Paul D. , Guest John E.
Published: January 2010

Abstract— Three major periods of basaltic activity characterize the infill of the basins. Each of these periods was itself punctuated by discrete phases of widespread magma eruptions: three during both the Late Imbrian Epoch and the early Eratosthenian Period and then two in the late Eratosthenian Period. We found the youngest lavas off the eastern border of the Fra Mauro peninsula and, mantling a much larger area, over most of the central western Nubium basin.

Our results place the Nubium/Cognitum basalts in the low‐Ti category (1–5 wt% TiO2).

The data indicate that the majority (˜90%) of the mare terrain has iron content between 18 and 22 wt%. In particular, FeO contents tend to concentrate toward two compositional poles, each of ˜20 wt%, and a much smaller one of ˜15 wt%. These values are typical of nearside lunar maria.

To complement our compositional data, we present a census of craters larger than 500 m using Orbiter IV images. The result was a crater count average with frequency 5.6 × 10−2 km−2, translating into an inferred mean age of 3300 Ma for the exposed lava flows.

By combining lava chemistry with age, we find a possible correlation between the ages of the most prominent flow units and their estimated titanium content, with younger basalts becoming progressively Ti‐richer with time (from 2–3 to 4–5 wt% TiO2).
Chesapeake Bay impact structure: Morphology, crater fill, and relevance for impact structures on Mars
Authors: Horton J. Wright , Ormö Jens , Powars David S. , Gohn Gregory S.
Published: January 2010

Abstract— The late Eocene Chesapeake Bay impact structure (CBIS) on the Atlantic margin of Virginia is one of the largest and best‐preserved “wet‐target” craters on Earth. It provides an accessible analog for studying impact processes in layered and wet targets on volatile‐rich planets. The CBIS formed in a layered target of water, weak clastic sediments, and hard crystalline rock. The buried structure consists of a deep, filled central crater, 38 km in width, surrounded by a shallower brim known as the annular trough. The annular trough formed partly by collapse of weak sediments, which expanded the structure to ˜85 km in diameter. Such extensive collapse, in addition to excavation processes, can explain the “inverted sombrero” morphology observed at some craters in layered targets.

The distribution of crater‐fill materials in the CBIS is related to the morphology. Suevitic breccia, including pre‐resurge fallback deposits, is found in the central crater. Impact‐modified sediments, formed by fluidization and collapse of water‐saturated sand and silt‐clay, occur in the annular trough. Allogenic sediment‐clast breccia, interpreted as ocean‐resurge deposits, overlies the other impactites and covers the entire crater beneath a blanket of postimpact sediments.

The formation of chaotic terrains on Mars is attributed to collapse due to the release of volatiles from thick layered deposits. Some flat‐floored rimless depressions with chaotic infill in these terrains are impact craters that expanded by collapse farther than expected for similar‐sized complex craters in solid targets. Studies of crater materials in the CBIS provide insights into processes of crater expansion on Mars and their links to volatiles.
Stony meteorite characterization by non‐destructive measurement of magnetic properties
Authors: Smith D. L. , Ernst R. E. , Samson C. , Herd R.
Published: January 2010

Abstract— Four parameters of low‐field magnetic susceptibility (bulk value, frequency dependence, degree of anisotropy, and ellipsoid shape) have been determined for 321 stony meteorites from the National Collection of Canada. These parameters provide a basis for rapid, non‐destructive, and accurate meteorite classification as each meteorite class tends to have a distinct range of values. Chondrites show a clear trend of increasing bulk susceptibility from LL to L to H to E within the 3.6 to 5.6 logχ (in 10−9 m3/kg) range, reflecting increasing Fe‐Ni metal and Fe‐Ni sulfide content. Achondrite values range in logχ from 2.4 to 4.7 and primitive achondrites from 4.2 to 5.7. Frequency dependence is observed, using 19,000 Hz and 825 Hz, with variations in strength among meteorite classes and individual specimen dependence ranging from 1–25.6%. Degrees of anisotropy range from 1 to 53% with both oblate and prolate ellipsoids present. The aubrite class is marked by high degrees of anisotropy, low bulk magnetic susceptibility, and prolate fabric. Camel Donga is set apart from other eucrites, marked by higher bulk susceptibility, degree of anisotropy, and magnitude of oblate ellipsoid shape. The Shergotty, Nakhla, and Chassigny (SNC) meteorites show subclass distinction using frequency dependence and Chassigny is set apart with a relatively strong oblate fabric. The presence of both strong oblate and prolate fabrics among and within meteorite classes of chondritic and achondritic material points to a complex, multi‐mechanism origin for anisotropy, more so than previously thought, and likely dominated by impact processes in the later stages of stony parent body formation.