description Karoonda Overview
Karoonda is a carbonaceous chondrite that fell near Karoonda in South Australia in 1930. Classified as CK4, it is the type specimen from which the CK meteorite group takes its name. CK chondrites are distinguished by strongly oxidized mineralogy and evidence of thermal metamorphism, making Karoonda an important reference material for classifying related meteorites and investigating alteration within their parent asteroid.
insights Ranking position
Karoonda ranks #52 of 213 in the Meteorite ranking, behind Alais, ahead of Imilac.
help Karoonda FAQ
Why is the Karoonda meteorite the namesake of the CK group?
Karoonda is the type specimen used to define the CK carbonaceous-chondrite group, with the letter K derived from its name. Its strongly oxidized minerals and metamorphosed texture became reference traits for recognizing related meteorites.
What does CK4 mean in Karoonda's classification?
CK identifies the Karoonda group, while petrologic type 4 indicates that heat substantially recrystallized its original material. Chondrules remain recognizable, but they are less pristine than those in minimally altered type 3 meteorites.
Where and when did Karoonda fall?
Karoonda fell near the town of Karoonda in South Australia in 1930. The witnessed fall supplied scientists with material whose place and circumstances of arrival were documented.
Why is Karoonda more oxidized than many other chondrites?
CK chondrites contain relatively oxidized iron-bearing minerals, with much of the iron incorporated into silicates and oxides rather than free metal. Karoonda also records thermal metamorphism on its parent body, which helped reshape its mineral texture.
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