Hammadah al Hamra 346 (Ghadamis) - L6 Ordinary Chondrite

Hammadah al Hamra 346, often abbreviated to HaH 346 and also associated with the name Ghadamis, is an L6 Ordinary Chondrite from Gharyan, Libya, linked to a possible witnessed fall in 2018. A large fireball was widely seen and heard over the southern Jabal al Gharbi region on 26 August 2018, with hundreds of fresh stones later recovered in early 2019 around 95 km southwest of Ash Shuwayrif. More than 100 kg of material was reported, making HaH 346 a significant recent Libyan meteorite event.

Specimens of Hammadah al Hamra 346 are often noted for their fresh matte black fusion crust, with little evidence of wind abrasion or weathering. Interiors are typically light grey, consistent with an L6 Ordinary Chondrite, showing a compact, thermally altered texture with subdued chondrules and scattered metal grains. The type 6 classification reflects a high degree of recrystallisation on its parent asteroid, while its fresh condition supports its association with a recent fall.

Studying Hammadah al Hamra 346 provides insight into Ordinary Chondrite parent bodies, atmospheric entry, and the recovery of fresh meteorite material from modern falls. For collectors, it offers a strong combination of recent fall context, attractive fusion crust, and recognised classification. Each specimen represents ancient asteroid material connected to a well-documented modern meteorite recovery in Libya.