The Tom Phillips Microscopic Meteorite Gallery of Images

Meteorite: Jiddat al Harrasis (JaH) 055
Classification: L4/5 S2 W3
Process: Cross Polarized
Found in the Dhofar Desert of Oman in 2004.  Over 200 Kg has been collected.
 
These micrographs are of this meteorite in thin section viewed in cross polarized (Xpol) light.  When the analyzer polarizer is rotated, the wave length of light passing through the sample, and subsequently through the analyzer, is altered, effecting the colors we observe.  It is this phenomenon that allows experienced petrologists to determine the makeup of the sample.  These micrographs are an example of this color changing.
 
The feature is a barred chondrule.

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