Overview

• NWA 16788 weighs 54 pounds, making it the biggest known Mars fragment on Earth and representing about 6.5% of all Martian material available for study
• Laboratory analysis shows minimal terrestrial weathering and features of glassy fusion crust and maskelynite formed under immense pressure
• The specimen is open for public viewing at Sotheby’s New York through July 15 ahead of the live auction on July 16
• Online and cryptocurrency bids have already climbed to roughly $1.6 million toward an estimated $2 million to $4 million final price
• Scientists including Steve Brusatte argue that the meteorite should be donated to a museum or research institution to ensure public access and ongoing study