description Sikhote-Alin Overview
Sikhote-Alin is a IIAB iron meteorite that broke apart over the Sikhote-Alin Mountains in the Russian Far East on 12 February 1947. Witnesses observed a brilliant daylight fireball, and the event produced numerous impact pits and a large strewn field containing many tonnes of iron fragments. Specimens range from sculpted individual masses marked by atmospheric ablation to jagged shrapnel created by explosive fragmentation. The fall is documented through eyewitness reports, photographs, and extensive scientific recovery work.
help Sikhote-Alin FAQ
What happened during the Sikhote-Alin meteorite fall?
On February 12, 1947, a large iron meteoroid broke apart over the Sikhote-Alin mountains in the Russian Far East. Witnesses saw a brilliant fireball, and the fragmentation produced numerous impact pits and scattered iron masses.
Why do Sikhote-Alin specimens have two different appearances?
Some pieces separated high in the atmosphere and developed rounded surfaces with deep thumbprint-like regmaglypts. Others were torn apart nearer the ground, leaving sharp-edged shrapnel fragments.
What type of meteorite is Sikhote-Alin?
Sikhote-Alin is classified as a IIAB iron meteorite. Its metallic composition allowed many fragments to survive atmospheric entry despite the violent breakup.
Was the Sikhote-Alin fall witnessed by people?
Yes, it was one of the largest well-documented witnessed meteorite falls. Artist P. I. Medvedev even painted the smoke trail after observing the event, and that image later appeared on a Soviet commemorative stamp.
explore Explore More
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
