Petrology, mineralogy, and trajectory reconstruction of the Maoming (L5) ordinary chondrite

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Jin Yu Zhang, Hong Yi Chen, Yi Man Yin, Lan Fang Xie, Xu Kai Gao, Xi Jun Liu

MAPS, Version of Record online: 11 May 2026

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“The Maoming meteorite, which fell in Guangdong Province, China, on May 28, 2025, represents the second-largest witnessed meteorite recovery event in China since 1949, with a total recovered mass of 423 kg. This study presents an integrated analysis of its petrology, mineral chemistry, and aerodynamic behavior to reconstruct the complete atmospheric entry-to-impact sequence. Fresh samples were examined using optical microscopy, electron probe microanalysis, and density measurements, while the entry trajectory was simulated using a fourth-order Runge–Kutta model constrained by impact crater morphology and atmospheric data. Based on mineralogical homogeneity and shock-weathering features, Maoming is classified as an L5 ordinary chondrite (shock stage S3, weathering grade W1) with a double-layered fusion crust indicating peak temperatures of 1410°C–1615°C. Aerodynamic modeling, based on a constrained initial velocity of ~15 km/s, yields an entry angle of 13.9° and a terminal impact velocity of 267.23 m/s at a trajectory angle of 65°. The simulated penetration depth (2.98 m) closely matches field observations (~3 m), validating the reconstructed dynamics. Despite its friable, fractured structure, the meteoroid survived atmospheric passage without catastrophic disruption, contrasting with typical fragmentation-dominated entries. This case provides critical empirical constraints on the survival of moderately strong, fractured ordinary chondrites under moderate entry conditions. The combined petrological and aerodynamic approach presented here provides a framework for rapid trajectory reconstruction and impact effect quantification. This framework also offers empirical constraints on the trajectory and cratering mechanics of meter-scale, moderately strong meteoroids.”

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