Diogenite
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| Diogenite | |
|---|---|
| — Group — | |
| File:JohnstownDiogenite.jpg The Johnstown Diogenite. | |
| Type | Achondrite |
| Structural classification | Igneous rocks of plutonic origin |
| Class | Asteroidal achondrite |
| Clan | HED |
| Parent body | 4 Vesta |
| Composition | Primarily magnesium-rich orthopyroxene, a little plagioclase & olivine |
| Total known specimens | ~40 |
| File:Tatahouine Diogenite 72g.jpg Tatahouine, diogenite | |
Diogenites are a group of the HED meteorite clan, a type of achondritic stony meteorites.
Origin and composition
[edit | edit source]Diogenites are currently believed to originate from deep within the crust of the asteroid 4 Vesta, and as such are part of the HED meteorite clan. There are about 40 distinct members known.
Diogenites are composed of igneous rocks of plutonic origin, having solidified slowly enough deep within Vesta's crust to form crystals which are larger than in the eucrites. These crystals are primarily magnesium-rich orthopyroxene, with small amounts of plagioclase and olivine.[1]
Name
[edit | edit source]Diogenites are named for Diogenes of Apollonia, an ancient Greek philosopher who was the first to suggest an outer space origin for meteorites.[2]
See also
[edit | edit source]References
[edit | edit source]External links
[edit | edit source]- Diogenite images - Meteorites Australia