Lunar Meteorites - Mare Gabbros (LUN G)

Lunar Mare Gabbro meteorites, often classified as LUN G, are a rare subtype of Lunar meteorites that originate from intrusive igneous rocks within the Moon’s mare regions. Unlike Mare Basalts, which formed from lava flows at the surface, Mare Gabbros crystallised slowly beneath the lunar surface, allowing larger mineral crystals to develop. Formed several billion years ago, this material was later excavated by impact events and ejected into space, eventually reaching Earth as meteorites. LUN G specimens therefore provide access to deeper sections of the Moon’s volcanic crust.

LUN G meteorites are typically dark grey to black and display a coarse-grained texture, with visible crystals of minerals such as pyroxene and plagioclase. Their slower cooling history results in a more crystalline and structured appearance compared to the finer textures of Mare Basalts. This gives them a distinctive look among Lunar meteorites, often showing clear mineral boundaries when cut and polished.

Studying Lunar Mare Gabbro meteorites provides valuable insight into subsurface magmatic processes on the Moon, including how magma cooled and crystallised beneath the surface. They help scientists understand the internal structure and thermal evolution of lunar volcanic regions. For collectors, LUN G meteorites are highly desirable due to their rarity and their representation of deeper lunar material. Each specimen offers a unique glimpse beneath the Moon’s surface, adding depth to Lunar meteorite collections.