Ajdabiya 001

A PIECE OF THE MOON IN THE SHAPE OF A SPHERE

Formed into a sphere reminiscent of the Moon from which it came, this Ajdabiya 001 meteorite is a distinctive lunar meteorite with closely packed, unusually large, angular, light grey lithic clasts, some measuring up to 2 centimeters in length. These large clasts give Ajdabiya 001 a very unusual look, unlike other lunar meteorites. Adding to this sphere's visual interest are streaks of orange, red, and white, colors that are unusual in lunar samples.

Lunar material is some of the rarest material to exist on our planet — only 1,536 kilograms (3,386 lb) of confirmed lunar meteorites currently exist on Earth. And, while six of the Apollo missions brought back 382 kilograms (842 lb) of so-called "Moon rocks" from their combined voyages, these samples of the Moon are unavailable for private ownership. As a result, any piece of lunar material is exceedingly rare and highly sought after by both institutions and private collectors.

As with all meteorites that are shaped into spheres, they require the work of highly trained artisans and cutting-edge equipment to make, as the cutting, grinding, and polishing processes can all cause the piece to fracture. As such, any meteorite sphere — and particularly a lunar sphere — is quite a rarity.

REFERENCES:

Meteoritical Bulletin Entry for Ajdabiya 001