Chondrites

Chondrites are a type of meteorite made up of small, round mineral grains called chondrules that formed early in the solar system’s history. These space rocks are considered some of the oldest materials from space, providing insights into the solar system’s formation about 4.6 billion years ago. They haven't been significantly altered by heat or other processes after they formed, preserving original features. Scientists study chondrites to understand the building blocks of planets and the conditions present in the early solar nebula. Their composition and structure make them invaluable in planetary science research.