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Flensburg

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description Flensburg Overview

Flensburg is a small carbonaceous meteorite that fell near Flensburg in northern Germany on 12 September 2019, shortly after a daylight fireball was observed. It is classified as an ungrouped C1 chondrite and contains hydrated minerals and unusually fresh carbonates formed through interactions between rock and liquid water on its parent body. Its rapid recovery and limited terrestrial exposure make it valuable for research into aqueous alteration during the early history of the solar system.

help Flensburg FAQ

Was the Flensburg meteorite fall actually witnessed?

Yes. A daylight fireball was observed over northern Europe on 12 September 2019, and a small meteorite was subsequently recovered near Flensburg, Germany. Because it was found quickly, researchers could study unusually fresh material.

Why is Flensburg classified as an ungrouped C1 chondrite?

Its composition and extensive water-related alteration do not fit neatly within established carbonaceous-chondrite groups such as CI or CM. The C1 designation indicates highly altered, fine-grained carbonaceous material with no obvious chondrules.

What do Flensburg's carbonates reveal about its parent asteroid?

The meteorite contains fresh carbonates and hydrated minerals produced through reactions involving liquid water. These minerals preserve evidence that water circulated through its parent body early in Solar System history.

Is Flensburg similar to common iron meteorites such as Gibeon?

No. Flensburg is a fragile, carbon-rich stony meteorite, whereas Gibeon is a metallic IVA iron meteorite. Flensburg therefore lacks the etched Widmanstätten pattern seen on polished Gibeon slices.

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