A Piece of Mars Lands on Earth and Breaks Auction Records
In a recent auction, a massive rock from Mars made headlines by selling for a staggering $5.3 million. This isn't just any rock; it's the largest piece of Mars ever found on Earth.
A Rare Piece of Space History
- Weight: 54 pounds
- Name: NWA 16788
- Discovery Location: Sahara Desert, Niger (2023)
- Journey: Blasted off Mars by an asteroid impact, traveled 140 million miles to Earth
The auction, held in New York, saw intense competition for this rare piece of space history. The final bid was $4.3 million, but with added fees, the total price tag hit $5.3 million.
Unique Composition
This meteorite is special not just for its size but also for its composition:
- Type: Olivine-microgabbroic shergottite
- Formation: Cooled Martian magma
- Surface: Glassy, indicating extreme heat during atmospheric entry
A Rare Find
- Total Known Martian Rocks on Earth: 400
- Size Comparison: Nearly 70% larger than the next biggest piece
The auction house described it as a significant piece of Martian history, offering a unique glimpse into the red planet's past.
Other Fascinating Items
The auction also featured other remarkable items:
- Juvenile Dinosaur Skeleton: Sold for over $30 million
- Species: Ceratosaurus
- Period: Late Jurassic
- Discovery Location: Wyoming (1996)
- Condition: Meticulously assembled and mounted for display
A Fascinating Event
The event was part of a larger auction week focused on rare geological and archaeological objects. It's a reminder of how our fascination with space and ancient history can drive incredible value. Whether it's a piece of Mars or a dinosaur skeleton, these items connect us to worlds and times far beyond our own.