Georgia Meteorite: A 4.56 Billion-Year-Old Asteroid That Precedes Earth

A meteorite that struck a home in Georgia is estimated to be 4.56 billion years old, making it older than the Earth itself. The meteorite formed from a larger asteroid that broke apart 470 million years ago. Scientists plan to submit their findings and propose naming the space rock the McDonough Meteorite.

An intriguing cosmic visitor has been identified in Georgia, with implications that extend far beyond the state's borders. On June 26, a meteorite struck a home in Henry County, leaving a lasting impression on both the homeowner and the scientific community. The meteorite, named the McDonough Meteorite, is estimated to be 4.56 billion years old, predating the Earth itself by approximately 20 million years.

The meteorite, a Low Metal (L) ordinary Chondrite, was analyzed by Scott Harris, a researcher in the University of Georgia's Franklin College of Arts and Sciences' department of geology. Harris concluded that the meteorite formed in the presence of oxygen, making it one of the oldest known meteorites. Its origins can be traced back to a group of asteroids in the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, which broke apart around 470 million years ago [1].

The McDonough Meteorite is significant not only for its age but also for its potential to provide insights into the threat posed by larger, more dangerous asteroids. Harris plans to publish a paper detailing the meteorite's composition, speed, and dynamics, which could help in understanding and mitigating such threats [1].

The meteorite's impact on the homeowner's roof was substantial, with the bolide (fireball) entering the atmosphere at cosmic velocity and causing significant damage. The event underscores the importance of public awareness and modern technology in recovering meteorites, which have become more frequent in recent decades [1].

The McDonough Meteorite is the sixth witnessed fall in Georgia's history and the 27th meteorite recovered in the state. The meteorite will be stored at UGA for further analysis, with additional pieces on display at the Tellus Science Museum in Cartersville [1].

In conclusion, the McDonough Meteorite offers a unique opportunity to study an ancient piece of the solar system and its potential impact on Earth. As scientists continue to analyze the meteorite, they hope to gain a better understanding of the cosmos and the threats it may pose.

References:
[1] https://news.uga.edu/uga-names-new-meteorite/
[2] https://apnews.com/article/meteor-georgia-fireball-bolide-9d90cc17fd316e3ee69ec610788e5531
[3] https://abcnews.go.com/Technology/wireStory/fiery-meteor-punched-georgia-homes-roof-older-earth-124493520