AXTELL, A NEW CV3 CHONDRITE FIND FROM TEXAS

We describe a previously unreported meteorite found in Axtell, Texas, in 1943. Based on the mineralogical composition and texture of its mat rix and the sizes and abundance of chondrules, we classify it as a CV3 carbonaceous chondrite. The dominant opaque phase in the chondrules i s magnetite, and that in refractory inclusions is Ni-rich NiFe metal ( awaruite). Axtell, therefore, belongs to the oxidized subgroup of CV3 chondrites, although unlike Allende it escape strong sulfidation. The meteorite bears a strong textural resemblance to Allende, and its chro ndrule population and matrix appear to be quite similar to those of Al lende, but its refractory inclusions, thermoluminescence properties, a nd cosmogenic Co-60 abundances are not. Our data are consistent with a terrestrial age for Axtell of approximately 100 years and a metamorph ic grade slightly lower than that of Allende.