The largest individual Martian rock ever found on Earth achieved an astonishing price. It sold at a Sotheby’s auction for almost US$5.3 million. An anonymous bidder secured this rare specimen.
This massive chunk of Mars is a meteorite named NWA-16788. Weighing 24.67 kilograms (54.39 pounds), it significantly surpasses the previous record. That record-holder, Taoudenni 002, weighed 14.51 kg. It was discovered in Mali in 2021.
AUCTION SUCCESS AND SCIENTIFIC VALUE
The Sotheby’s auction began on July 16 at 14:00 UTC. It concluded just under five hours later. Before the event, experts estimated its value. They expected between $2 million and $4 million. Ultimately, it sold for $5.296 million. The Martian rock’s pristine condition contributed to its value. Its rich history also led to it surpassing expectations.
UNVEILING ITS JOURNEY TO EARTH
NWA-16788 shows “minimal terrestrial weathering.” This indicates its physical and chemical makeup remained largely unaltered. It arrived in the Sahara Desert fairly recently. The rock likely careened into Earth following an asteroid impact on Mars. This is suggested by shock-melted areas. Also, about a fifth of its composition is maskelynite. This glass forms when feldspar transforms under intense heat and pressure.
The Sotheby’s listing describes the meteorite’s formation. It “formed from the slow cooling of Martian magma.” It has a coarse-grained texture. Pyroxene, maskelynite, and olivine are its primary components. These micro-gabbroic qualities make it particularly rare. Only 5.4 percent of Martian meteorites fall into this classification.
DISCOVERY AND CONFIRMATION
A meteorite hunter discovered NWA-16788. The discovery occurred in the Agadez region of Niger. This happened in November 2023. A small sample was sent to the Shanghai Astronomy Museum. There, its Martian identity was confirmed.
A DEBATE WITHIN THE SCIENTIFIC COMMUNITY
The auction generated mixed feelings among scientists. Some questioned placing a price tag on such a rare specimen. Paleontologist Steve Brusatte from the University of Edinburgh expressed concern. “It would be a shame if it disappeared into the vault of an oligarch,” he said. He believes it belongs in a museum. This allows for study and public enjoyment.
