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 Out of This World: Rare Martian Meteorite Hits Auction with Multi-Million-Dollar Price Tag
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July 6, 2025

Out of This World: Rare Martian Meteorite Hits Auction with Multi-Million-Dollar Price Tag

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The Largest Martian Meteorite Ever Found on Earth Heads to Auction

A remarkable piece of extraterrestrial history is set to make headlines as it goes under the hammer at Sotheby’s on July 16. Known as NWA 16788, this meteorite is not only the largest piece of Mars ever discovered on Earth but also one of the rarest space rocks in existence.

Key Details About NWA 16788

  • Weight: Approximately 54 pounds
  • Size: About 15 inches at its widest point
  • Origin: Ejected from Mars due to a massive asteroid strike
  • Landing Site: Sahara Desert, Niger
  • Discovery Date: November 16, 2023

This extraordinary rock was found by a meteorite hunter in a remote area of Niger and is about 70% larger than the next biggest Martian meteorite currently known. According to Sotheby’s, there are only around 400 Martian meteorites identified on Earth, which accounts for less than 1% of all known space rocks.

Scientific Significance

NWA 16788 stands out not just because of its size but also due to its pristine condition. Experts note that it shows minimal terrestrial weathering, meaning its original composition has remained largely unchanged since it arrived on Earth. This makes it an invaluable specimen for scientists eager to study the geological makeup of Mars without the complications introduced by long-term exposure to Earth’s environment.

The meteorite is believed to have made its journey through space relatively recently, adding to its scientific value. Its recent arrival means researchers can study materials that have been minimally altered by Earth’s atmosphere and ecosystems.

Controversy Surrounding the Auction

While the auction promises to draw attention and potentially significant financial gain, it has sparked debate among experts regarding the role of private ownership in scientific discovery. Paleontologist Steve Brusatte expressed concern that such a valuable specimen might end up locked away in a private collection rather than being accessible for public education and research.

However, others argue that the market for meteorites plays a crucial role in expanding our scientific collections. Julia Cartwright, a planetary scientist, emphasized that the absence of a commercial incentive would drastically reduce the number of meteorites available for study. She pointed out that the current abundance of specimens in scientific repositories owes much to the efforts of private collectors and dealers who actively search for these cosmic treasures.

Understanding Meteorites

To clarify some terminology:

  • Meteoroid: A small rocky or metallic body in outer space.
  • Meteor: The visible path of a meteoroid as it enters Earth’s atmosphere, often referred to as a “shooting star.”
  • Meteorite: A meteoroid that survives its passage through the atmosphere and lands on Earth’s surface.

NASA explains that meteorites offer critical insights into the formation and evolution of our solar system. Each one serves as a time capsule, preserving information about the conditions present during the early stages of planetary development.

As the auction date approaches, the scientific community and the public alike await the outcome with interest, hoping that this unique piece of Mars will ultimately serve both science and society in meaningful ways.

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