Unraveling the Mystery: ‘Mudball’ Meteorite’s Journey From Space to Central America

In 2019, an extraordinary meteorite fell in Costa Rica, fascinating scientists with its unique characteristics. Unlike typical meteorites, which bear the scars of numerous cosmic collisions, this meteorite—referred to as a “mudball” due to its water-rich minerals—appeared remarkably pristine. Recovered near Aguas Zarcas, it weighs 27 kilograms (60 lbs), marking the largest fall since the Murchison meteorite in 1969.

Peter Jenniskens, a meteor astronomer, notes that the water content does not compromise its strength, challenging previous assumptions. The meteor entered Earth’s atmosphere at a steep angle of 81 degrees, traveling at 14.6 kilometers per second. This trajectory minimized its exposure to atmospheric friction, allowing more of it to survive the fiery descent, evidenced by stunning fusion-crusted stones exhibiting iridescent hues.

Cosmochemist Kees Welton confirmed that the last collision for this meteorite occurred around two million years ago, making its arrival remarkably recent given the solar system’s 4.6-billion-year history. The remarkable recovery of Aguas Zarcas not only captivated Costa Ricans but also represents a significant leap in the field of meteoritics, echoing past milestones in space exploration. Gerado Soto of the University of Costa Rica reflected on its profound impact, comparing its significance to that of historic space missions.