description Millbillillie Overview
Millbillillie is a eucrite meteorite associated with a witnessed fireball over Western Australia in October 1960, although stones were recovered years later. Eucrites are basaltic achondrites within the howardite-eucrite-diogenite group and are generally linked to the crust of asteroid 4 Vesta. Millbillillie's dark fusion crust and pale, brecciated interior make recovered specimens visually distinctive and useful in studies of differentiated asteroids.
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What type of meteorite is the Millbillillie meteorite?
The Millbillillie meteorite is classified as a eucrite, which is a type of basaltic achondrite. It belongs to the larger howardite-eucrite-diogenite (HED) clan of meteorites, which are generally believed to originate from the crust of the asteroid Vesta.
When and where did the Millbillillie meteorite fall to Earth?
The fall of the Millbillillie meteorite is associated with a spectacular daytime fireball observed in October 1960 over Western Australia. The event was witnessed by station workers in the outback, though the actual stones were not recovered until years later.
How did the Millbillillie meteorite get its name?
The meteorite was named after the Millbillillie pastoral station in Western Australia where the fireball was witnessed. The first stone was actually found by a local station manager in 1970, a full decade after the atmospheric event.
Why are eucrite meteorites like Millbillillie scientifically important?
Eucrites like Millbillillie are intensely studied because they represent ancient volcanic activity on a planetary body other than Earth. Their mineral compositions give researchers vital clues about the early differentiation of the solar system and the geologic history of Vesta.
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