Largest piece of Mars goes up for auction at Sotheby's
- The meteorite NWA 16788, discovered in November 2023, weighs 54 pounds and is believed to be the largest piece of Mars on Earth.
- It is estimated to sell for between $2 million and $4 million at a Sotheby’s auction on July 16.
- The auction highlights the tension between private collection and public scientific access to such valuable specimens.
In November 2023, a significant discovery occurred in the Agadez region of Niger, where a 54-pound meteorite known as NWA 16788 was found. This specimen is believed to be the largest piece of Mars that has ever fallen to Earth and is one of approximately 400 recognized Martian meteorites. The meteorite's unique red hue and glassy fusion crust indicate that it was likely blasted from the Martian surface by a powerful asteroid impact. This event has excited the scientific community and collectors alike, as such findings of Martian material are exceptionally rare. NWA 16788 is estimated to fetch between $2 million and $4 million at a Sotheby’s auction scheduled for July 16, making it the most valuable meteorite ever offered at auction. Auction house Sotheby’s emphasizes the tremendous significance of this meteorite, which contributes nearly 7% of all known Martian material present on Earth. The meteorite showcases not only the geological history of Mars but also the astronomical events that contributed to its journey to our planet. While the meteorite is set for sale, it has sparked a debate concerning whether it should be sold to a private bidder or donated to a scientific institution for public display and research. Some experts believe that such rare specimens should be accessible for scientific investigation and public enjoyment, rather than disappear into private collections. The ongoing discourse around this auction emphasizes the relationship between private collectors and scientific research. As the world awaits the outcome of the auction, excitement builds around the potential for scientific analysis of NWA 16788 after it changes hands. The possibility exists that the new owner may commit to studying the meteorite, which could lead to further insights into Martian history and material. While the auction garners attention for its financial implications, it also brings to light the importance of preserving such discoveries for education and scientific progress.