Timimoun 003 Aubrite
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Discover our collection of Timimoun 003 Aubrite, an exceptionally rare achondrite that formed during the earliest stages of planetary evolution within our Solar System.
Officially recognised by the Meteoritical Society, Timimoun 003 was recovered in the Adrar Province of Algeria during 2025 and classified as an Aubrite (Enstatite Achondrite). With an official total known weight of just 26 kilograms, Timimoun 003 represents one of only around 90 officially recognised aubrites, making it a highly desirable meteorite for collectors and researchers alike.
Unlike ordinary chondrites, aubrites are achondrites, meaning they crystallised from molten rock within a differentiated parent body rather than preserving the primitive chondrules seen in most stony meteorites. They are dominated by the mineral enstatite, an extremely magnesium-rich pyroxene that gives aubrites their distinctive pale grey to almost white appearance.
Timimoun 003 is classified as a coarse-grained aubrite. Laboratory analysis identified large enstatite crystals accompanied by accessory minerals including titanium-bearing troilite, daubréelite, silicon-bearing kamacite, diopside and albite. Rare grains of fresh metallic iron remain visible within the meteorite, while terrestrial weathering has produced characteristic brown staining and secondary alteration minerals on exposed surfaces.
Current scientific evidence suggests aubrites originated from a highly reduced differentiated asteroid, possibly related to E-type asteroids found within the Hungaria asteroid group. Their unique chemistry reflects formation under extremely oxygen-poor conditions during the birth of the Solar System, making them fundamentally different from most other meteorites.
Timimoun 003 combines exceptional rarity with outstanding scientific importance, offering collectors the opportunity to own material representing one of the rarest recognised meteorite groups known.
Our collection showcases authentic Timimoun 003 specimens selected for their provenance, recognised classification and scientific significance.
As our collection continues to grow, additional Timimoun 003 specimens and preparations will be added.
Official Classification
| Property | Information |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Timimoun 003 |
| Meteorite Type | Stony Meteorite |
| Classification | Aubrite |
| Find or Fall | Find |
| Country of Recovery | Algeria |
| Locality | Adrar Province |
| Year Found | 2025 |
| Year Approved | 2025 |
| Total Known Weight | 26kg |
| Official Database | Meteoritical Bulletin Database |
Why Collect Timimoun 003?
- Officially classified as an Aubrite (Enstatite Achondrite).
- Total known weight of 26 kilograms.
- Composed predominantly of coarse-grained enstatite crystals.
- Represents one of the rarest recognised meteorite groups.
- Formed within a differentiated parent body under extremely oxygen-poor conditions.
- An exceptional addition to advanced meteorite collections and planetary science displays.
Featured Specimens
Our collection may include:
- Raw Specimens
- Cut Specimens
- End Cuts
- Display Specimens
- Research Quality Specimens
- Collector Specimens
As our collection grows, additional Timimoun 003 specimens and preparations will become available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Timimoun 003?
Timimoun 003 is an officially recognised Aubrite recovered in Algeria during 2025. It is a rare achondrite composed predominantly of the mineral enstatite.
What is an aubrite?
Aubrites are rare igneous meteorites formed within differentiated planetary bodies. They consist mainly of magnesium-rich enstatite and contain very little metallic iron compared with ordinary chondrites.
Why is Timimoun 003 unusual?
Its coarse-grained enstatite crystals, rare accessory minerals and formation under extremely oxygen-poor conditions distinguish it from almost every other meteorite group.
Where was Timimoun 003 found?
It was recovered in Adrar Province, Algeria, during 2025.
Why are aubrites so rare?
Aubrites are among the rarest recognised meteorite groups, with only around 90 officially recognised examples worldwide at the time of Timimoun 003's approval.
Is every Timimoun 003 specimen unique?
Yes. Every specimen differs naturally in shape, weathering, crystal distribution and surface texture, making each example unique.
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References
- Meteoritical Bulletin Database – Timimoun 003.
- Meteoritical Society – Meteoritical Bulletin No. 114.
- Ćuk, M. et al. Hungaria Asteroid Family as the Source of Aubrite Meteorites.
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