Sotheby’s to auction largest Martian meteorite found on Earth

A Martian meteorite weighing over 24 kilograms is going under the hammer.

The specimen, known as NWA 16788, is verified as the largest piece of Mars ever found on Earth.

It is estimated to fetch between 2 million and 4 million U.S. dollars at Sotheby's upcoming auction in New York on July 16.

Before the sale, the meteorite will be on public display in Sotheby's galleries from July 8 to 15.

The rare chunk, which represents more than 6 percent of all Martian material found on Earth, was discovered in Niger in 2023.

Though it is unclear exactly when it landed on Earth, minimal weathering suggests a recent fall.