Widmanstätten pattern
The Widmanstätten pattern is a distinctive crystalline structure found in some meteorites, particularly those composed of iron and nickel. This pattern appears as a series of interlocking bands or lines, which are formed during the slow cooling of the metal in space. When these meteorites are cut and etched, the unique design becomes visible, showcasing the natural beauty of the material.
This pattern is named after the Austrian scientist Alois Widmanstätten, who first described it in the early 19th century. The Widmanstätten pattern is not only a key identifier for certain meteorites but also provides valuable information about their formation and the conditions in which they originated in the solar system.