Evolution of outer space matter under terrestrial conditions (as exemplified by the Bilibino iron meteorite).

The Bilibino meteorite fell to the earth not less than 300,000 years ago; located in the zone of terrestrial hypergenesis, the meteorite surface experienced deep transformations. In the present paper, an examination is made of the mineral composition of new formations, and the textural and chemical zonality of the distribution of these formations with respect to the meteorite and the rocks contained therein. On the basis of the chemical composition of the minerals and their interrelationships, it is found that the early stage of the evolution of cosmic matter in terrestrial conditions proceeded in a reducing environment, while the later stage proceeded in an oxidizing environment.