Timimoun 002 Diogenite

Discover our collection of Timimoun 002 Diogenite, an exceptionally rare meteorite that formed deep within the crust of a differentiated asteroid during the earliest history of the Solar System.

Officially recognised by the Meteoritical Society, Timimoun 002 was recovered in the Adrar Province of Algeria on 3 July 2024 and officially approved on 13 September 2025. It is classified as a Diogenite, a member of the HED (Howardite–Eucrite–Diogenite) meteorite clan, with an official total known weight of just 4 kilograms.

Unlike ordinary chondrites, diogenites are achondrites, meaning they crystallised from molten rock inside a differentiated parent body rather than preserving primitive chondrules. Most planetary scientists believe diogenites originated from the lower crust or upper mantle of the asteroid 4 Vesta, one of the largest bodies in the asteroid belt.

Timimoun 002 is an anorthite-bearing brecciated diogenite composed predominantly of orthopyroxene, which accounts for more than 90% of the rock. Accessory minerals include anorthite, augite, ilmenite, low-titanium chromite, troilite and a silica polymorph. One particularly unusual feature is the presence of non-linear augite exsolution lamellae within the orthopyroxene, a texture rarely observed in diogenites.

Laboratory studies also identified evidence of moderate shock metamorphism. Expansion cracks surrounding silica grains indicate that the meteorite experienced a significant impact event after crystallisation, although the shock was insufficient to transform anorthite into maskelynite. This preserves valuable evidence of the asteroid's geological history.

With a total known weight of only 4 kilograms, Timimoun 002 is an exceptionally scarce meteorite that combines rarity, scientific importance and excellent provenance. It represents material that crystallised deep within a differentiated planetary body over 4.5 billion years ago, providing a direct connection to the earliest stages of Solar System evolution.

Our collection showcases authentic Timimoun 002 specimens selected for their provenance, recognised classification and scientific significance.

As our collection continues to grow, additional Timimoun 002 specimens and preparations will be added.

Official Classification

Why Collect Timimoun 002?

• Officially classified as a Diogenite.
• Member of the HED meteorite group.
• Total known weight of only 4 kilograms.
• Composed of more than 90% orthopyroxene.
• Displays unusual orthopyroxene exsolution textures rarely observed in diogenites.
• Records moderate impact shock within its parent asteroid.
• An exceptional addition to advanced meteorite and planetary science collections.

Featured Specimens

Our collection may include:

• Raw Specimens
• Cut Specimens
• End Cuts
• Collector Specimens
• Research Quality Specimens
• Display Specimens

As our collection grows, additional Timimoun 002 specimens and preparations will become available.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Timimoun 002?

Timimoun 002 is an officially recognised Diogenite meteorite recovered in Algeria during 2024 and approved by the Meteoritical Society in 2025.

What is a diogenite?

Diogenites are rare igneous achondrite meteorites composed mainly of orthopyroxene. They are believed to have crystallised deep within the crust or upper mantle of the differentiated asteroid 4 Vesta.

What does HED mean?

HED stands for Howardite, Eucrite and Diogenite, three closely related meteorite groups thought to originate from the same differentiated parent body.

Why is Timimoun 002 unusual?

Timimoun 002 contains exceptionally abundant orthopyroxene together with unusual augite exsolution lamellae, a feature rarely documented in diogenites. It also preserves evidence of moderate impact shock.

Where was Timimoun 002 found?

It was recovered in the Adrar Province of Algeria on 3 July 2024 before being officially approved in 2025.

Is every specimen unique?

Yes. Every Timimoun 002 specimen differs naturally in shape, texture, weathering and mineral distribution, making each one completely unique.

Related Collections

You may also be interested in:

• Meteorite Specimens
• Stony Meteorites
• Meteorites by Name
• Timimoun 003 Aubrite
• Rafsa 007 Angrite
• Oued El Hamim 001 Lunar Meteorite

References

• Meteoritical Bulletin Database – Timimoun 002.
• Meteoritical Society – The Meteoritical Bulletin.