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Introduction
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Northwest Africa 5000 is the largest meteorite from the ancient Lunar Highlands ever found. It is exceedingly important in that it represents a previously unexplored part of the Moon and is the only Highlands Gabbro available for study. Originally, it weighed a tremendous 25 lbs 6.6 oz. (11,528 grams.) Even at the current weight of 21 lbs. 3 oz. (9,610 grams), it is bigger than anything in the NASA Apollo collection. Although the weight is very impressive, its presence is awe-inspiring. When trying to portray Northwest Africa 5000, one may be at a loss for words -- it is simply too beautiful to properly describe but we will attempt to do so. The contrast is incredible. The matrix looks like a black and white intaglio print of the universe rendered by a spirited yet masterful artist. This stone contains breccias within breccias, |
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and the preferential orientation of clasts lends a unique 3-D appearance to flat surfaces. A
generous amount of 4.5 billion year old gleaming metal is present, adding yet another striking
element to nature’s artwork. The exterior presentation is outstanding with well-preserved regmaglypts ("thumb-printing"
marks from atmospheric entry), areas of translucent fusion crust and attractive desert patina. Northwest Africa 5000 has become
legendary in the short period of time since its discovery in 2007. |
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"The Rock, A Superlative Meteorite From The Moon" |
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