One of the largest lunar meteorites auctioned in the auction house Christie’s on Thursday, and it is estimated at $2.49 million
Moonstone weighing more than 13.5 kg probably broke away from the planet’s surface in a collision with an asteroid or comet, and then fell in the Sahara desert.
Known as NWA 12691, he is considered the 5th largest piece of the moon ever found on our planet. In total there are 650 kg of moon rocks found on Earth.
A piece of the moon for sale: One of the world’s largest lunar meteorites will go on private sale at Christie’s, valued at $2.49 million https://t.co/mi33PY2aFk pic.twitter.com/od2gkLTXbk
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«The opportunity to hold a part of another world in their hands is something that I will never forget,» said James Hislop, head of science and natural history Christie’s. «This is a real piece of the moon. It is the size of a soccer ball more than your head.»
As many discovered meteorites, it was found in the Sahara after flying approximately 240 thousand miles to the earth from the moon. Then he was replaced by the original owner and since then had been carefully studied.
Scientists can be sure of its origins due to the fact that compared with samples brought to space mission of the Apollo program to the moon.
«In the 60-ies and 70-ies of the spaceships of the Apollo program came back with 400 kg of moon rocks and scientists had the opportunity to analyze the chemical and isotopic composition of those stones, finding that they meet certain meteorites,» said Hislop.
Meteorites are incredibly rare and only 1 out of 1,000 flies from the moon, making it absolutely incredible facility, he added.
«We expect to see huge international interest from museums of natural history… this is an amazing trophy for anyone interested in the history of space and lunar studies.»
The moon has fascinated people since the beginning of human history as a symbol of power, of love, of time and of the future, and is a natural satellite of the Earth. Presumably the Moon formed 4.5 billion years ago when Earth collided with a body, comparable in size with Mars.
Christie’s will also auction a group of 13 iron meteorites. The collection is estimated at 1.4 million pounds.
