The Most Expensive Meteorite: A Piece of Mars Sold for $4.3 Million
Introduction
A meteorite that is the largest known piece of Mars on Earth sold at a Sotheby’s New York auction Wednesday. The rock, which weighs over 4.5 kg and measures about 10 inches long, fetched a staggering $4.3 million from an anonymous buyer. This is a new record for the highest price paid for a meteorite at an auction. The previous record was held by a piece of the moon that sold for $2.8 million in 2019.
Key Details
The meteorite, known as NWA 12691 or "The Martian," was discovered in the Sahara Desert in 2011. It is believed to have originated from the surface of Mars, making it a rare and valuable collector's item. The rock is composed of a mixture of minerals and oxygen isotopes that are only found on the Red Planet, making it a one-of-a-kind specimen. The buyer of the meteorite remains anonymous, but it is likely that this piece will be added to a private collection or displayed in a museum.
Impact
This sale is not only significant for the record-breaking price, but also for the potential scientific insights that can be gained from studying the meteorite. Scientists have been able to learn more about the composition and history of Mars through previous meteorite discoveries, and this piece could provide even more valuable information.
