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Largest Mars meteorite sells for $5.3 million
The NWA 16788 meteorite, the biggest Martian rock on Earth, fetched a high price at auction.
A meteorite that is the largest known piece of Mars on Earth sold at a Sotheby’s New York auction.
Largest known Mars meteorite sells for $5.3 million at auction
A meteorite, known as NWA 16788, has been sold for $5.3 million at a Sotheby’s auction in New York. This meteorite, discovered in Niger, weighs 54 pounds and is the largest known piece of Mars found on Earth. According to Sotheby’s, it is significantly larger than other Martian meteorites, which are typically small fragments. Cassandra Hatton from Sotheby’s described it as a monumental specimen, providing a tangible connection to Mars. The meteorite may have been ejected from Mars by an asteroid impact. Although many scientists are concerned about its sale, some argue that private ownership can drive scientific research and discovery.
Key Takeaways
"It belongs in a museum, where it can be studied."
Steve Brusatte emphasizes the need for public accessibility to the meteorite for educational purposes.
"Ultimately, if there was no market, we would not have nearly as many meteorites."
Julia Cartwright discusses the balance between private collection and scientific research.
The sale of NWA 16788 reveals a growing trend in the commercialization of space artifacts, raising questions about accessibility and scientific integrity. While some experts advocate for meteorites to be preserved in museums for public education, others highlight that private collectors can stimulate research funding. As the line blurs between public heritage and private ownership, the fate of such unique items becomes a point of contention. Will they enrich our understanding of the cosmos, or will they be locked away from public view?
Highlights
- A monumental specimen provides a tangible connection to Mars
- The largest Martian meteorite ever auctioned raises eyebrows
- If samples weren’t collected, we wouldn’t know as much as we do
- Concerns grow over meteorites disappearing into private collections
Concerns over privatization of scientific specimens
The sale of the meteorite raises concerns that significant scientific artifacts may be lost to private collections, limiting public access and educational opportunities. Experts fear that valuable items could remain locked away rather than being available for study or display.
The future of our connection to space now depends on the choices of private owners.
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