bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Noble gases in enstatite chondrites II: The trapped component
Authors: Patzer Andrea , Schultz Ludolf
Published: January 2010

Abstract— The trapped noble gas record of 57 enstatite chondrites (E chondrites) has been investigated. Basically, two different gas patterns have been identified dependent on the petrologic type. All E chondrites of type 4 to 6 show a mixture of trapped common chondritic rare gases (Q) and a subsolar component (range of elemental ratios for E4–6 chondrites: 36Ar/132Xe = 582 ± 270 and 36Ar/84Kr = 242 ± 88). E3 chondrites usually contain Q gases, but also a composition with lower 36Ar/132Xe and 36Ar/84Kr ratios, which we call sub‐Q (36Ar/132Xe = 37.0 ± 18.0 and 36Ar/84Kr = 41.7 ± 18.1). The presence of either the subsolar or the sub‐Q signature in particular petrologic types cannot be readily explained by parent body metamorphism as postulated for ordinary chondrites. We therefore present a different model that can explain the bimodal distribution and composition of trapped heavy noble gases in E chondrites.

Trapped solar noble gases have been observed only in some E3 chondrites. About 30% of each group, EH3 and EL3 chondrites, amounting to 9% of all analyzed E chondrites show the solar signature. Notably, only one of those meteorites has been explicitly described as a regolith breccia.
Cosmic impactversusterrestrial origin of the Azuara structure (Spain): A review
Authors: Cortés Angel L. , Díaz‐Martínez Enrique , Sanz‐Rubio Enrique , Martínez‐Frías Jesús , Fernández Cristina
Published: January 2010

Abstract—The Azuara structure is the largest one proposed so far in Spain as possibly related to a cosmic impact event. A review of the evidence set forward in favor of and against its cosmic origin indicates that the discussion is not yet finished. Some megascopic features (inverted stratigraphy, megabreccia, negative gravity anomalies) and shock‐metamorphic effects (planar deformational features) have been described in relation with the structure, although their real significance has been questioned and is still being debated. Comparison with other similar‐sized verified impacts suggests that unequivocal impactogenic features are yet to be found before the Azuara structure can be related to a cosmic impact. Until then, the Azuara structure should be considered as an unverified impact structure, and should not be included in global comprehensive maps of terrestrial impact structures.
Spaceborne ultraviolet 251–384 nm spectroscopy of a meteor during the 1997 Leonid shower
Authors: Jenniskens Peter , Tedesco Ed , Murthy Jayant , Laux Christophe O. , Price Stephen
Published: January 2010

Abstract— We used the ultraviolet to visible spectrometers onboard the midcourse space experiment to obtain the first ultraviolet spectral measurements of a bright meteor during the 1997 Leonid shower. The meteor was most likely a Leonid with a brightness of about‐2 magnitude at 100 km altitude. In the region between 251 and 310 nm, the two strongest emission lines are from neutral and ionized magnesium. Ionized Ca lines, indicative of a hot T ≅ 10 000 K plasma, are not detected. The Mg and Mg+ line intensity ratio alone does not yield the ionization temperature, which can be determined only by assuming the electron density. A typical air plasma temperature of T = 4400 K would imply a very high electron density: ne = 2.2 times 1018 m‐3, but at chondritic abundances of Fe/Mg and Si/Mg ≅ 1. For a more reasonable local‐thermodynamic‐equilibrium (LTE) air plasma electron density, the Mg and Mg+ line ratio implies a less than chondritic Fe/Mg = 0.06 abundance ratio and a cool non‐LTE T = 2830 K ionization temperature for the ablation vapor plasma. The present observations do not permit a choice between these alternatives. The new data provide also the first spectral confirmation of the presence of molecular OH and NO emission in meteor spectra.
Spectra of extremely reduced assemblages: Implications for Mercury
Authors: BURBINE Thomas H. , McCOY Timothy J. , NITTLER Larry R. , BENEDIX Gretchen K. , CLOUTIS Edward A. , Dickinson Tamara L.
Published: January 2010

Abstract— We investigate the possibility that Mercury's crust is very reduced with FeO concentrations of less than ˜0.1 wt%. We believe that such a surface could have a composition of enstatite, plagioclase, diopside, and sulfide, similar to the mineral assemblages found in aubritic meteorites. To test this hypothesis, we investigated the spectra of aubrites and their constituent minerals as analogs for the surface of Mercury. We found that some sulfides have distinctive absorption features in their spectra shortwards of ˜0.6 μm that may be apparent in the spectrum of such an object. Determination of the surface composition of Mercury using orbital x‐ray spectroscopy should easily distinguish between a lunar highlands and enstatite basalt composition since these materials have significant differences in concentrations of Al, Mg, S, and Fe. The strongest argument against Mercury having an enstatite basalt composition is its extreme spectral redness. Significant reddening of the surface of an object (such as Mercury) is believed to require reduction of FeO to nanophase iron, thus requiring a few percent FeO in the material prior to alteration.
The Foelsche structure, Northern Territory, Australia: An impact crater of probable Neoproterozoic age
Authors: HAINES Peter W. , RAWLINGS David J.
Published: January 2010

Abstract— The Foelsche structure is situated in the McArthur Basin of northern Australia (16°40′ S, 136°47′ E). It comprises a roughly circular outcrop of flat‐lying Neoproterozoic Bukalara Sandstone, overlying and partly rimmed by tangentially striking, discontinuous outcrops of dipping, fractured and brecciated Mesoproterozoic Limmen Sandstone. The outcrop expression coincides with a prominent circular aeromagnetic anomaly, which can be explained in terms of the local disruption and removal or displacement of a regional mafic igneous layer within a circular area at depth. Samples of red, lithic, pebbly sandstone from the stratigraphically lowest exposed levels of the Bukalara Sandstone within the Foelsche structure contain detrital quartz grains displaying mosaicism, planar fractures (PFs) and planar deformation features (PDFs). PFs and PDFs occur in multiple intersecting sets with orientations consistent with a shock metamorphic origin. The abundance and angular nature of the shocked grains indicates a nearby provenance. Surface expression and geophysical data are consistent with a partly buried complex impact crater of ˜6 km in diameter with an obscured central uplift ˜2 km in diameter. The deformed outcrops of Limmen Sandstone are interpreted as relics of the original crater rim, but the central region of the crater, from which the shocked grains were likely derived, remains buried. From the best available age constraints the Foelsche structure is most likely of Neoproterozoic age.
Brachinites: Igneous rocks from a differentiated asteroid
Authors: Mittlefehldt David W. , Bogard Donald D. , Berkley John L. , Garrison Daniel H.
Published: January 2010

Abstract— We have done petrologic studies of brachinites Allan Hills (ALH) 84025, Elephant Moraine (EET) 99402, and EET 99407; bulk geochemical studies of EET 99402 and EET 99407; Ar‐Ar studies of Brachina and EET 99402; and a Xe isotopic study of Brachina. Textural, mineral compositional, and bulk compositional evidence show that EET 99402 and EET 99407 are paired. ALH 84025, EET 99402, and EET 99407 have igneous textures. Petrofabric analyses of ALH 84025 and EET 99407 demonstrate the presence of lineations and probable foliations of olivine grains that support formation as igneous cumulates. Mineral minor element chemistry and bulk rock incompatible lithophile element contents of the brachinites are distinct from those of acapulcoitelodranite clan meteorites, a suite of high‐grade metamorphic rocks and anatectic residues. The differences demonstrate a higher blocking temperature of equilibration for the brachinites and that cumulus plagioclase is present in EET 99402, EET 99407, and probably ALH 84025, thus indicating an igneous origin. Brachinites are differentiated, ultramafic achondrites, and are not part of a suite of primitive achondrites. We infer that their parent asteroid is a differentiated body.

Brachina has an excess of 129Xe correlated with reactor‐produced 128Xe, demonstrating that short‐lived 129I was present at the time of formation. This, plus literature data, attests to early formation of the brachinites, within a few Ma of the formation of chondrites. Ar‐Ar age data show that Brachina and EET 99407 were degassed about 4.13 Ga ago, possibly by a common impact event. EET 99402 and EET 99407 show petrographic evidence for shock, including possible conversion of plagioclase to maskelynite followed by devitrification. Brachina is unshocked, making a direct association between the Ar‐Ar age and textures ambiguous.
Chronology, geochemistry, and petrology of a ferroan noritic anorthosite clast from Descartes breccia 67215: Clues to the age, origin, structure, and impact history of the lunar crust
Authors: Norman Marc D. , Borg Lars E. , Nyquist Lawrence E. , Bogard Donald D.
Published: January 2010

Abstract— The petrology, major and trace element geochemistry, and Nd‐Ar‐Sr isotopic compositions of a ferroan noritic anorthosite clast from lunar breccia 67215 have been studied in order to improve our understanding of the composition, age, structure, and impact history of the lunar crust. The clast (designated 67215c) has an unusually well preserved igneous texture. Mineral compositions are consistent with classification of 67215c as a member of the ferroan anorthositic suite of lunar highlands rocks, but the texture and mineralogy show that it cooled more rapidly and at shallower depths than did more typical ferroan anorthosites (FANs). Incompatible trace element concentrations are enriched in 67215c relative to typical FANs, but diagnostic signatures such as Ti/Sm, Sc/Sm, plagiophile element ratios, and the lack of Zr/Hf and Nb/Ta fractionation show that this cannot be due to the addition of KREEP. Alternatively, 67215c may contain a greater fraction of trapped liquid than is commonly present in lunar FANs. 147Sm‐143Nd isotopic compositions of mineral separates from 67215c define an isochron age of 4.40 ± 0.11 Gyr with a near‐chondritic initial ε143Nd of +0.85 ± 0.53. The 40Ar‐39Ar composition of plagioclase from this clast records a post‐crystallization thermal event at 3.93 ± 0.08 Gyr, with the greatest contribution to the uncertainty in this age deriving from a poorly constrained correction for lunar atmosphere 40Ar. Rb‐Sr isotopic compositions are disturbed, probably by the same event recorded by the Ar isotopic compositions. Trace element compositions of FANs are consistent with crystallization from a moderately evolved magma ocean and do not support a highly depleted source composition such as that implied by the positive initial ε143Nd of the ferroan noritic anorthosite 62236. Alternatively, the Nd isotopic systematics of lunar FANs may have been subject to variable degrees of modification by impact metamorphism, with the plagioclase fraction being more strongly affected than the mafic phases. 147Sm‐143Nd isotopic compositions of mafic fractions from the 4 ferroan noritic anorthosites for which isotopic data exist (60025, 62236, 67016c, 67215c) define an age of 4.46 ± 0.04 Gyr, which may provide a robust estimate for the crystallization age of lunar ferroan anorthosites.
Porosity and density of ordinary chondrites: Clues to the formation of friable and porous ordinary chondrites
Authors: WILKISON Sarah L. , McCOY Timothy J. , McCAMANT Jane E. , ROBINSON Mark S. , BRITT Daniel T.
Published: January 2010

Abstract— Densities and porosities of meteorites are physical properties that can be used to infer characteristics of asteroid interiors. We report density and porosity measurements of 42 pieces of 30 ordinary chondrites and provide a quantification of the errors of the gas pycnometer method used in this study. Based on our measurements, we find that no significant correlation exists between porosity and petrologic grade, chemical group, sample mass, bulk and grain density, or shock level. To investigate variations in porosity and density between pieces of a meteorite, we examined stones from two showers, Holbrook and Pultusk. Examination of nine samples of Holbrook suggests relative homogeneity in porosity and density between pieces of this shower. Measurements of three samples of Pultusk show homogeneity in bulk density, in contrast to Wilkison and Robinson (2000), a study that reported significant variations in bulk density between 11 samples of Pultusk. Finally, examination of two friable ordinary chondrites, Bjurböle and Allegan, reveal variability in friability and porosity among pieces of the same fall. We suggest that friable ordinary chondrites may have formed in a regolith or fault zone of an asteroid.
FeO‐rich silicates in the Sahara 97159 (EH3) enstatite chondrite: Mineralogy, oxygen isotopic compositions, and origin
Authors: KIMURA M. , HIYAGON H. , LIN Y. , WEISBERG M. K.
Published: January 2010

Abstract— We report the mineralogy and oxygen isotopic compositions of FeO‐rich silicates in the Sahara 97159 EH3 chondrite. This component is referred to as FeO‐rich because it contains substantially more FeO than the characteristic FeO‐poor silicates in the highly reduced enstatite meteorites. These FeO‐rich silicates are mostly low‐Ca pyroxene (Fs5–35) and their compositions suggest an origin under more oxidizing conditions, like those for the ordinary chondrites. However, the mafic silicates in ordinary and carbonaceous chondrites are dominantly olivine, and the FeO‐rich silicates in the E chondrites are less commonly olivine. The oxygen isotopic compositions of the FeO‐rich silicates are indistinguishable from those of FeO‐poor silicates in Sahara 97159. These observations suggest that both the FeO‐rich silicates and the FeO‐poor silicates in EH chondrites formed from the same oxygen reservoir where redox conditions varied widely.
Impact tectonics in the core of the Vredefort dome, South Africa: Implications for central uplift formation in very large impact structures
Authors: LANA C. , GIBSON R. L. , REIMOLD W. U.
Published: January 2010

Abstract— The 80 km wide Vredefort dome presents a unique opportunity to investigate the deep levels of the central uplift of a very large impact structure. Exposure of progressively older strata in the collar of the dome and of progressively higher‐grade metamorphic rocks toward its center is consistent with differential uplift; however, the deepest levels exposed correspond to pre‐impact midcrust, rather than lower crust, as has been suggested previously. Pre‐impact Archean gneissic fabrics in the core of the dome are differentially rotated, with the angle of rotation increasing sharply at a distance of ˜16–19 km from the center. The present asymmetric dips of the collar strata, with layering dipping outward at moderate angles in the southeastern sector but being overturned and dipping inward in the northwestern sector, and the eccentric distribution of the pre‐impact metamorphic isograds around the core of the dome can be reconciled with symmetric rotation of an initially obliquely NW‐dipping target sequence during central uplift formation. The rocks in the core of the dome lack distinctive megablocks or large‐slip‐magnitude faults such as have been described in other central uplifts. We suggest that the large‐scale coherent response of these rocks to the central uplift formation could have been accommodated by small‐scale shear and/or rotation along pervasive pseudotachylitic breccia vein‐fractures.
Iron oxidation state in the Fe‐rich layer and silica matrix of Libyan Desert Glass: A high‐resolution XANES study
Authors: Giuli Gabriele , Paris Eleonora , Pratesi Giovanni , Koeberl Christian , Cipriani Curzio
Published: January 2010

Abstract— Libyan Desert Glass (LDG) is an enigmatic type of glass that occurs in western Egypt in the Libyan Desert. Fairly convincing evidence exists to show that it formed by impact, although the source crater is currently unknown. Some rare samples present dark‐colored streaks with variable amounts of Fe, and they are supposed to contain a meteoritic component.

We have studied the iron local environment in an LDG sample by means of Fe K‐edge highresolution X‐ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy to obtain quantitative data on the Fe oxidation state and coordination number in both the Fe‐poor matrix and Fe‐rich layers. The pre‐edge peak of the high‐resolution XANES spectra of the sample studied displays small but reproducible variations between Fe‐poor matrix and Fe‐rich layers, which is indicative of significant changes in the Fe oxidation state and coordination number. Comparison with previously obtained data for a very low‐Fe sample shows that, while iron is virtually all trivalent and in tetrahedral coordination ([4]Fe3+) in the low‐Fe sample, the sample containing the Fe‐rich layers display a mixture of tetra‐coordinated trivalent iron ([4]Fe3+) and penta‐coordinated divalent iron ([5]Fe2+), with the Fe in the Fe‐rich layer being more reduced than the matrix. From these data, we conclude the following: a) the significant differences in the Fe oxidation state between LDG and tektites, together with the wide intra‐sample variations in the Fe‐oxidation state, confirm that LDG is an impact glass and not a tektite‐like glass; b) the higher Fe content, coupled with the more reduced state of the Fe, in the Fe‐rich layers suggests that some or most of the Fe in these layers may be directly derived from the meteoritic projectile and that it is not of terrestrial origin.
Minor element zoning and trace element geochemistry of pallasites
Authors: Hsu Weibiao
Published: January 2010

Abstract— I report here on an ion probe study of minor element spatial distributions and trace element concentrations in six pallasites. Pallasite olivines exhibit ubiquitous minor element zoning that is independent of grain size, morphology, and adjacent phases. Ca, Cr, Ti, V, and Ni concentrations decrease from center to rim by factors of up to 10, while Mn is generally unzoned or increases slightly at the very edge of some olivine grains. The maximum concentrations of these elements at the center of olivine vary from grain to grain within the same meteorite and among the pallasites studied. These zoning profiles are consistent with thermal diffusion during rapid cooling. The inferred cooling rates at high temperature regimes are orders of magnitude faster than the low‐temperature metallographic cooling rates (˜0.5 to 2°C/Ma). This suggests that pallasites, like mesosiderites, have experienced rather complicated thermal histories, i.e., cooling rapidly at high temperatures and slowly at low temperatures.

Pallasite olivines are essentially free of REEs. However, the phosphates display a wide range of REE abundances (0.001 to 100 x CI) with distinct patterns. REEs are generally homogeneous within a given grain but vary significantly from grain to grain by a factor of up to 100. Albin and Imilac whitlockite are highly enriched in HREEs (˜50 x CI) but are relatively depleted in LREEs (˜0.1 to 1 x CI). Eagle Station whitlockite has a very unusual REE pattern: flat LREEs at a 0.1 x CI level, a large positive Eu anomaly, and a sharp increase from Gd (0.1 x CI) to Lu (70 x CI). Eagle Station stanfieldite has a similar REE pattern to that of whitlockite but with much lower REEs by a factor of 10 to 100. Springwater farringtonite has relatively low REE concentrations (0.001 to 1 x CI) with a highly fractionated HREE‐enriched pattern (CI‐normalized Lu/La ˜100). Postulating any igneous processes that could have fractionated REEs in these phosphates is difficult. Possibly, phosphates were incorporated into pallasites during mixing of olivine and IIIAB‐like molten Fe. These phosphates preserve characteristics of a previous history.

Pallasites have not necessarily formed at the mantle‐core boundary of their parent bodies. The pallasite thermal histories suggest that pallasites may have formed at a shallow depth and were subsequently buried deep under a regolith blanket.
Microdistribution of primordial Ne and Ar in fine‐grained rims, matrices, and dark inclusions of unequilibrated chondrites—Clues on nebular processes
Authors: VOGEL Nadia , WIELER Rainer , BISCHOFF Addi , BAUR Heinrich
Published: January 2010

Abstract— The low temperature fine‐grained material in unequilibrated chondrites, which occurs as matrix, rims, and dark inclusions, carries information about the solar nebula and the earliest stages of planetesimal accretion. The microdistribution of primordial noble gases among these components helps to reveal their accretionary and alteration histories. We measured the Ne and Ar isotopic ratios and concentrations of small samples of matrix, rims, and dark inclusions from the unequilibrated carbonaceous chondrites Allende (CV3), Leoville (CV3), and Renazzo (CR2) and from the ordinary chondrites Semarkona (LL3.0), Bishunpur (LL3.1), and Krymka (LL3.1) to decipher their genetic relationships. The primordial noble gas concentrations of Semarkona, and—with certain restrictions—also of Leoville, Bishunpur, and Allende decrease from rims to matrices. This indicates a progressive accretion of nebular dust from regions with decreasing noble gas contents and cannot be explained by a formation of the rims on parent bodies. The decrease is probably due to dilution of the noble‐gas‐carrying phases with noble‐gas‐poor material in the nebula. Krymka and Renazzo both show an increase of primordial noble gas concentrations from rims to matrices. In the case of Krymka, this indicates the admixture of noble gas‐rich dust to the nebular region from which first rims and then matrix accreted. This also explains the increase of the primordial elemental ratio 36Ar/ 20Ne from rims to matrix. Larger clasts of the noble‐gas‐rich dust form macroscopic dark inclusions in this meteorite, which seem to represent unusually pristine material. The interpretation of the Renazzo data is ambiguous. Rims could have formed by aqueous alteration of matrix or—as in the case of Krymka—by progressive admixture of noble gas‐rich dust to the reservoir from which the Renazzo constituents accreted. The Leoville and Krymka dark inclusions, as well as one dark inclusion of Allende, show noble gas signatures different from those of the respective host meteorites. The Allende dark inclusion probably accreted from the same region as Allende rims and matrix but suffered a higher degree of alteration.

The Leoville and Krymka dark inclusions must have accreted from regions different from those of their respective rims and matrices and were later incorporated into their host meteorites. The noble gas data imply a heterogeneous reservoir with respect to its primordial noble gas content in the accretion region of the studied meteorites. Further studies will have to decide whether these differences are primary or evolved from an originally uniform reservoir.
Early petrologic processes on the ureilite parent body
Authors: Singletary S. J. , Grove T. L.
Published: January 2010

Abstract— We present a petrographic and petrologic analysis of 21 olivine‐pigeonite ureilites, along with new experimental results on melt compositions predicted to be in equilibrium with ureilite compositions. We conclude that these ureilites are the residues of a partial melting/smelting event. Textural evidence preserved in olivine and pigeonite record the extent of primary smelting. In pigeonite cores, we observe fine trains of iron metal inclusions that formed by the reduction of olivine to pigeonite and metal during primary smelting. Olivine cores lack metal inclusions but the outer grain boundaries are variably reduced by a late‐stage reduction event. The modal proportion of pigeonite and percentage of olivine affected by late stage reduction are inversely related and provide an estimation of the degree of primary smelting during ureilite petrogenesis. In our sample suite, this correlation holds for 16 of the 21 samples examined.

Olivine‐pigeonite‐liquid phase equilibrium constraints are used to obtain temperature estimates for the ureilite samples examined. Inferred smelting temperatures range from ∼1150°C to just over 1300°C and span the range of estimates published for ureilites containing two or more pyroxenes. Temperature is also positively correlated with modal percent pigeonite. Smelting temperature is inversely correlated with smelting depth—the hottest olivine‐pigeonite ureilites coming from the shallowest depth in the ureilite parent body. The highest temperature samples also have oxygen isotopic signatures that fall toward the refractory inclusion‐rich end of the carbonaceous chondrite‐anhydrous mineral (CCAM) slope 1 mixing line. These temperature‐depth variations in the ureilite parent body could have been created by a heterogeneous distribution of heat producing elements, which would indicate that isotopic heterogeneities existed in the material from which the ureilite parent body was assembled.
Evolution and classification of acapulcoites and lodranites from a chemical point of view
Authors: PATZER Andrea , HILL Dolores H. , BOYNTON William V.
Published: January 2010

Abstract— We examined 15 bulk samples of the acapulcoite‐lodranite clan for their major, minor, and trace element concentrations using INAA techniques. Among the analyzed meteorites are 2 new acapulcoites (Dhofar [Dho] 290, Thiel Mountains [TIL] 99002) as well as an additional acapulcoite that has been described previously only in very brief form (Graves Nunataks [GRA] 98028). The petrographic attributes of these 3 samples are addressed thoroughly. We also include petrographic information on 2 acapulcoites from Africa: Northwest Africa (NWA) 725 and NWA 1058.

In general, our study strongly supports the widely accepted idea that acapulcoites and lodranites evolved through partial melting and melt migration of metal/sulfide phases and plagioclase. Furthermore, we concur with previous researchers that the original bimodal classification scheme for acapulcoites and lodranites proves to be too simple. Based on our data set, we introduce an alternative, extended scheme. With respect to their elemental distribution patterns, we distinguish 5 subtypes comprising primitive, typical, transitional, and enriched acapulcoites on one hand and lodranites on the other. The chemical distinction between the primitive, typical, and transitional acapulcoites is rather subtle and gradual. It stands in contrast to the clear modifications observed for the signatures of the enriched acapulcoites and the lodranites. The definition of subcategories basically reflects the concentrations of 2 key elements: K and Se. We note, however, that the assignment of subgroups may not be exclusively inferred from elemental abundances but should also consider additional petrographic information.
Noble gases in chondrules and associated metal‐sulfide‐rich samples: Clues on chondrule formation and the behavior of noble gas carrier phases
Authors: VOGEL Nadia , LEYA Ingo , BISCHOFF Addi , BAUR Heinrich , WIELER Rainer
Published: January 2010

Abstract— Chondrules are generally believed to have lost most or all of their trapped noble gases during their formation. We tested this assumption by measuring He, Ne, and Ar in chondrules of the carbonaceous chondrites Allende (CV3), Leoville (CV3), Renazzo (CR2), and the ordinary chondrites Semarkona (LL3.0), Bishunpur (LL3.1), and Krymka (LL3.1). Additionally, metalsulfide‐rich chondrule coatings were measured that probably formed from chondrule metal. Low primordial 20Ne concentrations are present in some chondrules, while even most of them contain small amounts of primordial 36Ar. Our preferred interpretation is that‐in contrast to CAIs‐the heating of the chondrule precursor during chondrule formation was not intense enough to expel primordial noble gases quantitatively. Those chondrules containing both primordial 20Ne and 36Ar show low presolar‐diamond‐like 36Ar/20Ne ratios. In contrast, the metal‐sulfide‐rich coatings generally show higher gas concentrations and Q‐like 36Ar/20Ne ratios. We propose that during metalsilicate fractionation in the course of chondrule formation, the Ar‐carrying phase Q became enriched in the metal‐sulfide‐rich chondrule coatings. In the silicate chondrule interior, only the most stable Ne‐carrying presolar diamonds survived the melting event leading to the low observed 36Ar/20Ne ratios. The chondrules studied here do not show evidence for substantial amounts of fractionated solar‐type noble gases from a strong solar wind irradiation of the chondrule precursor material as postulated by others for the chondrules of an enstatite chondrite.
Impact ejecta in upper Eocene deposits at Massignano, Italy
Authors: Glass Billy P. , Liu Shaobin , Montanari Alessandro
Published: January 2010

Abstract— Previous workers have shown that an impact ejecta layer at Massignano, Italy contains a positive Ir anomaly, flattened spheroids (pancake spherules), Ni‐rich spinel crystals, and shocked quartz with multiple sets of planar deformation features. Because of sample sizes and work by different investigators, it was not clear if the shocked quartz is associated with the Ir anomaly and pancake spherules or if it belongs to a separate impact event. To address this problem, we carried out a high‐resolution stratigraphic study of this ejecta layer. The ejecta layer was sampled continuously at 1 cm intervals in two adjacent columns. The carbonate was removed with dilute HCl, and the non‐carbonate fraction was gently sieved. Pancake spherules were recovered from the 250–500 μm size fraction and counted. At the peak abundance, the number of pancake spherules in the 250–500 μm size fraction is about 6–7/g of sample. The pancake spherules removed from the 250–500 μm size fraction are mostly translucent to opaque pale green, but some have a grey color or dark opaque patches due to a coating of Ni‐ and Cr‐rich spinel crystals. Energy‐dispersive X‐ray analysis and X‐ray diffraction data indicate that the green spherules are composed of iron‐rich smectite, probably nontronite. Black opaque spinel stringers (dark spinel‐rich pancake spherules), usually <200 μm across, can be seen in a polished section of a block that includes the ejecta layer. None of the dark spinel‐rich pancake spherules were recovered from the sieved non‐carbonate fraction due to their fragile nature, but we believe that they are from the same impact event as the green pancake spherules. The <250 μm size fractions from both columns were disaggregated using ultrasonics and re‐sieved. The 63–125 μm size fractions were then searched for shocked quartz using a petrographic microscope. At the peak‐abundance level, the number of shocked quartz grains in the 63–125 μm size fraction is about 7/g of sample. Some of the shocked quartz grains have a “toasted” appearance. These grains have a brownish color and contain a patchy distribution of faint, densely spaced planar deformation features (PDFs). Polymineralic fragments containing one or two shocked quartz grains with one or two sets of PDFs were observed. They appear to have an organic matrix and are probably fragments of agglutinated foraminiferal tests. We searched for, but did not find, coesite or shocked zircons. We found that the peak abundance of the shocked quartz is within a centimeter of the peak abundance of the green pancake spherules. We conclude that the pancake spherules are diagenetically altered clinopyroxene‐bearing spherules and that the shocked quartz, green (and presumably the dark spinel‐rich) pancake spherules, and Ir anomaly all belong to the same impact event. This conclusion is consistent with previous suggestions that the cpx spherule layer may be from the 100 km‐diameter Popigai impact crater in northern Siberia.
First petrographic results on impactites from the Yaxcopoil‐1 borehole, Chicxulub structure, Mexico
Authors: Tuchscherer Martin G. , Reimold W. Uwe , Koeberl Christian , Gibson Roger L. , de Bruin Deon
Published: January 2010

Abstract—The ICDP Yaxcopoil‐1 (Yax‐1) borehole located 60 km south‐southwest of the center of the Chicxulub impact structure intercepted an interval of allogenic impactites (depth of 795–895 m). Petrographic analysis of these impactites allows them to be differentiated into five units based on their textural and modal variations. Unit 1 (795–922 m) comprises an apparently reworked, poorly sorted and graded, fine‐grained, clast‐supported, melt fragment‐bearing suevitic breccia. The interstitial material, similar to units 2 and 3, is permeated by numerous carbonate veinlets. Units 2 (823–846 m) and 3 (846–861 m) are groundmass‐supported breccias that comprise green to variegated angular and fluidal melt particles. The groundmass of units 2 and 3 comprises predominantly fine‐grained calcite, altered alkali element‐, Ca‐, and Si‐rich cement, as well as occasional lithic fragments. Unit 4 (861–885 m) represents a massive, variably devitrified, and brecciated impact melt rock. The lowermost unit, unit 5 (885–895 m), comprises highly variable proportions of melt rock particles (MRP) and lithic fragments in a fine‐grained, carbonate‐dominated groundmass. This groundmass could represent either a secondary hydrothermal phase or a carbonate melt phase, or both. Units 1 and 5 contain well‐preserved foraminifera fossils and a significantly higher proportion of carbonate clasts than the other units. All units show diagnostic shock deformation features in quartz and feldspar clasts.

Our observations reveal that most felsic and all mafic MRP are altered. They register extensive K‐metasomatism. In terms of emplacement, we suggest that units 1 to 3 represent fallout suevite from a collapsing impact plume, whereby unit 1 was subsequently reworked by resurging water. Unit 4 represents a coherent impact melt body, the formation of which involved a significant proportion of crystalline basement. Unit 5 is believed to represent an initial ejecta/ground‐surge deposit.
Formation of accretionary dust mantles in the solar nebula: Evidence from preirradiated olivines in CM chondrites
Authors: Metzler Knut
Published: January 2010

Abstract— CM chondrites are regolith breccias consisting of lithic clasts embedded in a fine‐grained clastic matrix. The majority of these lithic clasts belongs to a texturally well‐defined rock type (primary rock) that can be described as an agglomerate of chondrules and other coarse‐grained components, most of which are surrounded by fine‐grained rims (dust mantles). Metzler et al. (1992) explain these textures as the result of accretionary processes in the solar nebula, while an alternative model explains them to be the result of regolith processes on the parent body (Sears et al. 1993).

The main intention of the present study is to discern between both models by investigating the occurrence, frequency, spatial distribution, and textural setting of preirradiated (track‐rich) olivines in CM chondrites. Track‐rich olivines were studied in situ in six polished thin sections from 4 different CM chondrites (Cold Bokkeveld, Mighei, Murchison, Nogoya) by optical and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It was found that their occurrence is restricted to the clastic matrix of these meteorites. The primary rock seems to have formed in an environment shielded from cosmic radiation, since fragments of this rock are free of track‐rich grains and solar noble gases. This finding supports the solar nebula model for the formation of dust mantles around chondrules and other coarse‐grained components, and points against a regolith origin.

In Cold Bokkeveld, a small breccia‐in‐breccia clast was found, which has been irradiated as an entity within the uppermost millimeters to meters of its parent body for at least about 3 Ma. This clast seems to represent a compacted subsurface layer that was later excavated by impact and admixed to the host breccia.

Furthermore, the results of this study may affect the interpretation of compaction ages obtained by fission track methods, since these ages may be mixtures of different contact ages between finegrained, U‐rich dust and U‐poor olivines. In some cases, they may date the formation of dust mantles in the solar nebula, while in other cases the lithification of the host breccias may be dated.
Aerogel keystones: Extraction of complete hypervelocity impact events from aerogel collectors
Authors: Westphal Andrew J. , Snead Christopher , Butterworth Anna , Graham Giles A. , Bradley John P. , Bajt Saša , Grant Patrick G. , Bench Graham , Brennan Sean , Pianetta Piero
Published: January 2010

Abstract— In January 2006, the Stardust mission will return the first samples from a solid solar system body beyond the Moon and the first samples of contemporary interstellar dust ever collected. Although sophisticated laboratory instruments exist for the analysis of Stardust samples, techniques for the recovery of particles and particle residues from aerogel collectors remain primitive. Here, we describe our recent progress in developing techniques for extracting small volumes of aerogel, which we have called “keystones,” which completely contain particle impacts but minimize the damage to the surrounding aerogel collector. These keystones can be fixed to custom‐designed micromachined silicon fixtures (so called “microforklifts”). In this configuration, the samples are self‐supporting, which can be advantageous in situations where interference from a supporting substrate is undesirable. The keystones may also be extracted and placed onto a substrate without a fixture. We have also demonstrated the capability of homologously crushing these unmounted keystones for analysis techniques that demand flat samples.
Is the transition impact to post‐impact rock complete? Some remarks based on XRF scanning, electron microprobe, and thin section analyses of the Yaxcopoil‐1 core in the Chicxulub crater
Authors: SMIT J. , VAN DER GAAST S. , LUSTENHOUWER W.
Published: January 2010

Abstract The transition from impact to post‐impact rocks in the Yaxcopoil‐1 (Yax‐1) core is marked by a 2 cm‐thick clay layer characterized by dissolution features. The clay overlies a 9 cm‐thick hardground, overlying a 66 cm‐thick crossbedded unit, consisting of dolomite sandstone alternating with thin micro‐conglomerate layers with litho‐ and bioclasts and the altered remains of impact glass, now smectite. The micro‐conglomerates mark erosion surfaces. Microprobe and backscatter SEM analysis of the dolomite rhombs show an early diagenetic, complex‐zoned, idiomorphic overgrowth, with Mn‐rich zones, possibly formed by hot fluids related to cooling melt sheet in the crater. The pore spaces are filled with several generations of coelestite, barite, K‐feldpar, and sparry calcite. XRF core scanning analysis detected high Mn values in the crossbedded sediments but no anomalous enrichment of the siderophile elements Cr, Co, Fe, and Ni in the clay layer. Shocked quartz occurs in the crossbedded unit but is absent in the clay layer. The basal Paleocene marls are strongly dissolved and do not contain a basal Paleocene fauna. The presence of a hardground, the lack of siderophile elements, shocked quartz, or Ni‐rich spinels in the clay layer, and the absence of basal Paleocene biozones P0 and Pa all suggest that the top of the ejecta sequence and a significant part of the lower Paleocene is missing. Due to the high energy sedimentation infill, a hiatus at the top of the impactite is not unexpected, but there is nothing in the biostratigraphy, geochemistry, and petrology of the Yax‐1 core that can be used to argue against the synchroneity of the end‐Cretaceous mass‐extinctions and the Chicxulub crater.
Hydrothermal alteration in the core of the Yaxcopoil‐1 borehole, Chicxulub impact structure, Mexico
Authors: ZüRCHER Lukas , KRING David A.
Published: January 2010

Abstract Petrographic, electron microprobe, and Raman spectrometric analyses of Yaxcopoil‐1 core samples from the Chicxulub crater indicate that the impact generated a hydrothermal system. Relative textural and vein crosscutting relations and systematic distribution of alteration products reveal a progression of the hydrothermal event in space and time and provide constraints on the nature of the fluids. The earliest calcite, halite, and gaylussite suggest that the impactite sequence was initially permeated by a low temperature saline brine. Subsequent development of a higher temperature hydrothermal regime is indicated by thermal metamorphic diopside‐hedenbergite (Aeg3Fs18‐33En32‐11Wo47‐53) after primary augite and widespread Na‐K for Ca metasomatic alkali exchange in plagioclase. Hydrothermal sphene, apatite, magnetite + (bornite), as well as early calcite (combined 3 to 8 vol%) were introduced with metasomatic feldspar. A lower temperature regime characterized by smectite after probable primary glass, secondary chlorite, and other pre‐existing mafic minerals, as well as very abundant calcite veins and open‐space fillings, extensively overprinted the early hydrothermal stage. The composition of early and late hydrothermal minerals show that the solution was chlorine‐rich (Cl/F >10) and that its Fe/Mg ratio and oxidation state increased substantially (4 to 5 logfO2 units) as temperature decreased through time. The most altered zone in the impactite sequence occurs 30 m above the impact melt. The lack of mineralogical zoning about the impact melt and convective modeling constraints suggest that this unit was too thin at Yaxcopoil‐1 to provide the necessary heat to drive fluids and implies that the hydrothermal system resulted from the combined effects of a pre‐existing saline brine and heat that traveled to the Yaxcopoil‐1 site from adjacent areas where the melt sheet was thicker. Limonite after iron oxides is more common toward the top of the sequence and suggests that the impactite section was subjected to weathering before deposition of the Tertiary marine cover. In addition, scarce latest anatase stringers, chalcopyrite, and barite in vugs, francolite after apatite, and recrystallized halite are the likely products of limited post‐hydrothermal ambient‐temperature diagenesis, or ocean and/or meteoric water circulation.
Ejection of Martian meteorites
Authors: Fritz Jörg , Artemieva Natalia , Greshake Ansgar
Published: January 2010

Abstract—We investigated the transfer of meteorites from Mars to Earth with a combined mineralogical and numerical approach. We used quantitative shock pressure barometry and thermodynamic calculations of post‐shock temperatures to constrain the pressure/temperature conditions for the ejection of Martian meteorites. The results show that shock pressures allowing the ejection of Martian meteorites range from 5 to 55 GPa, with corresponding post‐shock temperature elevations of 10 to about 1000 °C. With respect to shock pressures and post‐shock temperatures, an ejection of potentially viable organisms in Martian surface rocks seems possible. A calculation of the cooling time in space for the most highly shocked Martian meteorite Allan Hills (ALH) 77005 was performed and yielded a best‐fit for a post‐shock temperature of 1000 °C and a meteoroid size of 0.4 to 0.6 m. The final burial depths of the sub‐volcanic to volcanic Martian rocks as indicated by textures and mineral compositions of meteorites are in good agreement with the postulated size of the potential source region for Martian meteorites during the impact of a small projectile (200 m), as defined by numerical modeling (Artemieva and Ivanov 2004). A comparison of shock pressures and ejection and terrestrial ages indicates that, on average, highly shocked fragments reach Earth‐crossing orbits faster than weakly shocked fragments. If climatic changes on Mars have a significant influence on the atmospheric pressure, they could account for the increase of recorded ejection events of Martian meteorites in the last 5 Ma.
Target rocks, impact glasses, and melt rocks from the Lonar impact crater, India: Petrography and geochemistry
Authors: Osae Shiloh , Misra Saumitra , Koeberl Christian , Sengupta Debashish , Ghosh Sambhunath
Published: January 2010

Abstract—The Lonar crater, India, is the only well‐preserved simple crater on Earth in continental flood basalts; it is excavated in the Deccan trap basalts of Cretaceous‐Tertiary age. A representative set of target basalts, including the basalt flows excavated by the crater, and a variety of impact breccias and impact glasses, were analyzed for their major and trace element compositions. Impact glasses and breccias were found inside and outside the crater rim in a variety of morphological forms and shapes. Comparable geochemical patterns of immobile elements (e.g., REEs) for glass, melt rock and basalt indicates minimal fractionation between the target rocks and the impactites. We found only little indication of post‐impact hydrothermal alteration in terms of volatile trace element changes. No clear indication of an extraterrestrial component was found in any of our breccias and impact glasses, indicating either a low level of contamination, or a non‐chondritic or otherwise iridium‐poor impactor.
The orbit and atmospheric trajectory of the Orgueil meteorite from historical records
Authors: Gounelle Matthieu , Spurný Pavel , Bland Philip A.
Published: January 2010

Abstract— Using visual observations that were reported 140 years ago in the Comptes Rendus de l'Académie des Sciences de Paris, we have determined the atmospheric trajectory and the orbit of the Orgueil meteorite, which fell May 14, 1864, near Montauban, France. Despite the intrinsic uncertainty of visual observations, we were able to calculate a reasonably precise atmospheric trajectory and a moderately precise orbit for the Orgueil meteoroid. The atmosphere entry point was ˜70 km high and the meteoroid terminal point was ˜20 km high. The calculated luminous path was ˜150 km with an entry angle of 20°. These characteristics are broadly similar to that of other meteorites for which the trajectory is known. Five out of six orbital parameters for the Orgueil orbit are well constrained. In particular, the perihelion lies inside the Earth's orbit (q ˜0.87 AU), as is expected for an Earth‐crossing meteorite, and the orbital plane is close to the ecliptic (i ˜0°). The aphelion distance (Q) depends critically on the pre‐atmospheric velocity. From the calculated atmospheric path and the fireball duration, which was reported by seven witnesses, we have estimated the pre‐atmospheric velocity to be larger than 17.8 km/sec, which corresponds to an aphelion distance Q larger than 5.2 AU, the semi‐major axis of Jupiter orbit. These results suggest that Orgueil has an orbit similar to that of Jupiter‐family comets (JFCs), although an Halley‐type comet cannot be excluded. This is at odds with other meteorites that have an asteroidal origin, but it is compatible with 140 years of data‐gathering that has established the very special nature of Orgueil compared to other meteorites. A cometary origin of the Orgueil meteorite does not contradict cosmochemistry data on CI1 chondrites. If CI1 chondrites originate from comets, it implies that comets are much more processed than previously thought and should contain secondary minerals. The forthcoming return of cometary samples by the Stardust mission will provide a unique opportunity to corroborate (or contradict) our hypothesis.