For snow to develop, two distinct weather conditions are essential: cold temperatures and moist air. Surprisingly, these conditions can be met in the Sahara Desert.

Although the notion of snowfall in a hot desert may seem contradictory, occurrences have been documented several times in the Sahara over the past few decades, with the most recent event recorded in January 2022. Therefore, while snowfall in the region may be uncommon, it is not unheard of.

The formation of snow is dependent on a unique combination of atmospheric air circulation and the characteristics of the land surface. Despite the Sahara's reputation for extreme heat, low temperatures are also recorded, particularly at night, due to the lack of vegetation and clear skies. In fact, temperatures as low as

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Perched along the coastline of the Gulf of Tunis, an observer is afforded a captivating panorama of the Mediterranean, adorned by the distant allure of two islands: Zembra and Zembretta. These islands, steeped in natural splendor, offer a serene sanctuary for enthusiasts of wildlife and avifauna.

Nestled within the northeastern expanse of the Gulf of Tunis, Zembra and Zembretta collectively constitute a national park renowned for its rich ecological tapestry of flora and fauna, complemented by awe-inspiring landscapes conducive to hiking and camping endeavors.

"Zembra, the largest island, expands 369 hectares and reaches 432 meters above sea level," remarked Hichem Azafzaf, president of the Association of Friends of Birds. "Consisting of a rock formation, Zembra has stunning and captivating cliffs for visitors to enjoy." He further noted, "Zembretta, 8 kilometers east of Zembra, covers an area of 2 hectares."

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The Kuriat islands represent the westernmost permanent breeding ground for loggerhead turtles along the Mediterranean's southern coast and are currently undergoing the process of being designated as a protected nature reserve.

While the islands serve as a crucial sanctuary for turtles, the pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters of Little Kuriat are also irresistible to holidaymakers. Nestled off the coast of Monastir—a resort town south of the capital Tunis—this paradisiacal island is where tourists and loggerhead turtles coexist, thanks to an innovative initiative.

Since 2017, the Tunisian government and a local NGO have collaborated to oversee a turtle conservation program right under the noses of beachgoers clad in bathing suits. These beachgoers are offered an environmental education alongside their holiday experience.

How Does It Work?

During the summer, the smallest of the Kuriat Islands attracts hundreds of day-trippers seeking to bathe in its inviting waters. However, this tourist activity is regulated, with all visitors required to depart the island by 3 p.m.

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Luckily enough, this meteorite represents the 100th registered fragment originating from Mars, excluding paired stones, and marks the first discovery of its kind in Tunisia.

The Sahara Desert has emerged as a significant source of Martian meteorite recovery, contributing nearly half of the entire collection (101 total; The Meteoritical Bulletin Database as of December 2011). Over the first decade of our millennia, 50 new fragments have been recovered, with 35 of them found in the Sahara. These recent discoveries offer valuable opportunities to enhance our understanding of Martian meteorites.

Ksar Ghilane 002 was recovered on January 13, 2010, by José Vicente Casado and David Allepuz in the Ksar Ghilane dense collection area (KG) at coordinates 32°48.375′ N and 009°49.970′ E. The discovery site is situated on the Saharan platform, atop Senonian limestone.

This meteorite is a singular stone weighing 538 grams, measuring approximately 10 × 4.5 × 3.5 cm. The surface of KG 002 exhibits signs of desert weathering, notably sand abrasion, which has led to the erosion of much of the fusion crust. Upon visual examination, KG 002 is characterized by light green pyroxene crystals, abundant maskelynite, and sparse opaque oxides as depicted by the photography below.

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