Heritage Ministry inaugurates Meteorite Corner at Mandarin Oriental Hotel
This initiative aligns with the Ministry's efforts to utilize geological heritage and enhance the tourism and cultural experience in the Sultanate of Oman.
The corner features a collection of rare meteorite samples from the "Jiddat Al Harasis" strewn field, offering hotel guests a unique opportunity to view them up close and learn about their history and scientific value. It also highlights Oman's commitment to preserving these meteorites as an important cultural legacy.
Among the exhibits is a distinctive sample from Jiddat al Harasis 091, which represents the largest meteorite fall discovered in Oman to date. Its strewn field extends approximately 52 kilometres, with over 700 collected pieces totaling around 4,600 kilograms. Documented scientific studies indicate that this fall at its original site occurred over 12,600 years ago.
The corner also includes a meteorite sample from Jiddat al Harasis 073, classified as an L6 chondrite stony meteorite. This is considered the second-largest meteorite fall discovered in Oman so far. Scientific studies suggest that this meteorite traveled through the asteroid belt in space, weighing over 20 tonnes, and is estimated to have fallen at its original site 15,600 years ago, during the Paleolithic era.
A total of 3,638 pieces from this fall have been documented, with an aggregate weight of 620.9 kilograms and a strewn field extending 25.8 kilometres. The display of these meteorites aims to educate hotel guests, both local and international, about the significance of meteorites, their scientific and historical value, and the legal frameworks and legislations governing them under the Cultural Heritage Law. This initiative emphasizes meteorites as crucial evidence of the solar system's formation, while also showcasing Oman's efforts in collecting, preserving, and studying meteorite samples.
This pioneering initiative represents a step towards fostering more partnerships between the government and private sectors to showcase Oman's unique natural treasures on diverse and modern platforms. It aligns with the country's vision to integrate culture and science into a comprehensive and holistic tourism experience.
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