While the Winchcombe meteorite may have fallen to Earth in Gloucestershire, its origins lie more than 300 million kilometres away. Where does the Winchcombe meteorite come from? 'We know it's not been contaminated, so this research adds weight to theories that carbonaceous asteroids were important in bringing these molecules to Earth after its formation.' 'The composition of its water, based on the hydrogen isotopes, is very similar to what is seen in Earth's oceans, while amino acids, which are used to build DNA, are also found inside it.' Its rapid collection by members of the public and scientists ensured it was preserved in almost pristine condition, allowing researchers to investigate the materials it has carried from outer space.Ī new study, published in the journal Science Advances, adds support to the suggestion that meteorites brought important molecules to Earth that helped to set the scene for life to evolve.ĭr Ashley King, who co-led the study and is an expert on meteorites at the Museum, says, 'The Winchcombe meteorite is incredibly well preserved, and has all the ingredients which can start to create a suitable environment for life to evolve are locked up inside it.' The Winchcombe meteorite was the first of its type ever to be recovered in the UK when it struck the eponymous Gloucestershire town in 2021. It’s also possible that the case was closed.Extraterrestrial water and the building blocks of DNA are among the contents of a rare meteorite that landed in the UK last year.
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