Sale of Mars rock out of this world

Mars rock sells for $5.3 million - 1st September 2025

The recent sale of a rock from Mars is a topic for discussion in Niger. The rock, a meteorite, is known as NWA 16788 and has just sold in New York for $5.3 million.

In general, meteorites are fairly small in size, but this one weighs 24.5 kg. According to Sotheby's auction house, where it was sold, this is the largest one ever.

While meteorites can land anywhere on planet Earth, many seem to be discovered in the Sahara desert. There, the climate is kind to them and there are also very few humans around. NWA 16788 dropped into the desert, in the Agadez region. It was later picked up and passed on to the owner of an important Italian gallery.

Nigerien authorities say that is where the difficulties started. Professor Sereno, from Niger Heritage, spoke to the BBC. "International law says you cannot simply take something that is important to the heritage of the country," he said.

Meanwhile, the Martian rock was displayed for a short time in Italy. Two slices were taken off and saved for further scientific research. After that, it was delivered to New York, for auction. While Sotheby's says suitable documentation was completed from start to finish, the Niger government is unsure.

According to an article in the Heritage magazine, an enormous number of these meteorites end up in private hands. The buyers are either collectors or people who want to invest their money. However, it's also essential to ensure that these rare objects are available to scientists and to wider society.