description Orgueil Overview
Orgueil is a CI1 carbonaceous chondrite meteorite that fell near Orgueil in southern France on 14 May 1864. CI chondrites are chemically primitive, fine-grained rocks rich in hydrated minerals and organic compounds, and their nonvolatile elemental abundances closely resemble those measured in the solar photosphere. Because the material has undergone extensive alteration by water on its parent body while avoiding strong heating, it is used to investigate early Solar System chemistry and prebiotic organic matter.
insights Ranking position
Orgueil ranks #1 of 213 in the Meteorite ranking, ahead of Allende.
help Orgueil FAQ
Why is the Orgueil meteorite used as a chemical reference for the solar system?
Orgueil is a CI1 carbonaceous chondrite whose nonvolatile elemental abundances closely match those measured in the Sun's photosphere. Scientists therefore use CI meteorites as a benchmark for the solar system's bulk chemical composition.
Where did the Orgueil meteorite fall?
Orgueil fell in southern France in May 1864, scattering fragile dark stones across the area. The meteorite was named after the nearby town of Orgueil.
Why must Orgueil specimens be handled carefully?
CI1 material is porous, water-rich, and mechanically fragile. Exposure to humidity and contamination can alter the very minerals and organic compounds that make Orgueil scientifically valuable.
Was a fossil-bearing Orgueil meteorite fragment proven genuine?
No, a notorious specimen presented as containing extraterrestrial biological material was exposed as a hoax. Investigators found that terrestrial plant material had been inserted beneath a glued meteorite crust.
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