description Brachina Overview
Brachina is a meteorite found in South Australia in 1974 and is the type specimen of the brachinites, a group of primitive achondrites. It is composed predominantly of olivine, accompanied by smaller amounts of pyroxene, plagioclase, chromite, metal, and sulfide. Its texture and chemistry record extensive thermal processing and partial melting on a differentiated asteroid while preserving some comparatively primitive compositional characteristics.
help Brachina FAQ
Where was the Brachina meteorite found?
The Brachina meteorite was discovered in South Australia in 1974. Its name comes from the Brachina area in the Flinders Ranges region of the state.
What type of meteorite is Brachina?
Brachina is the type specimen of the brachinite group, a class of primitive achondrites. This means it partially retains geochemical signatures of its chondritic precursor material despite having undergone some igneous processing.
What is the main mineral composition of the Brachina meteorite?
Brachina is composed predominantly of olivine, along with smaller amounts of pyroxene, plagioclase, chromite, metal, and sulfide. This olivine-rich assemblage is a defining characteristic of the brachinite group.
How many brachinite meteorites are known besides Brachina?
Brachinites remain one of the rarer meteorite groups, with only a modest number of recognized specimens beyond Brachina itself. Each new find is compared against Brachina's composition and texture since it established the group's defining properties.
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