THE YOUNGEST LUNAR MATERIAL EJECTED OFF THE LUNAR SURFACE -- NWA 6950 . ...

Description

THE YOUNGEST LUNAR MATERIAL EJECTED OFF THE LUNAR SURFACE -- NWA 6950
Lunar Mare - olivine gabbro
Sahara Desert at the Mali/Algeria Border
Similar to the previous two lots, the first indication of the scientific importance of this meteorite was in 2004 when it was reported that scientists had just discovered that NWA 773 contained the youngest lunar material known to exist in a lunar meteorite. Since then, other meteorites have been determined to be paired with NWA 773 (which is to say they are from the same event... the same source meteoroid), and NWA 6950 is one of these additional stones and contains some of the youngest lunar material known and dates from 2.865 billion years ago. NWA 6950 meteorite is an olivine gabbro, which is an intrusive igneous rock containing large amounts of olivine that formed deep under the lunar crust or in magma chambers of volcanoes. We know that gabbro crystallized deep under the crust because of the large grain/crystal size, which requires slow and steady cooling. The existence of this material proves that the Moon was volcanically active 2.8 billion years ago. This revelation upended theories on the Moon as it was believed the Moon was already "dead" more than 500 million years earlier. As such, it has been argued that NWA 6950 is among the most scientifically important lunar meteorites discovered. The present specimen is a partial slice and measures 55.6 mm by 23 mm and weighs 2.97 grams. It clearly exhibits the darker green olivine crystals imbedded in a lighter green/gray matrix.

Estimate: $2,600 - $3,000.

*Heritage Auctions strives to provide as much information as possible but encourages in-person inspection by bidders. Statements regarding the condition of objects are only for general guidance and should not be relied upon as complete statements of fact, and do not constitute a representation, warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted in the condition report but are apparent in the provided photos which are considered part of the condition report. Please note that we do not de-frame lots estimated at $1,000 or less and may not be able to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. All lots are sold "AS IS" under the Terms & Conditions of Auction.

Shipping, Taxes, Terms and Bidding
This item cannot be shipped using standard methods. Please contact us for more information.

Sales Tax information  |  Terms and Conditions

Bidding Guidelines and Bid Increments

Glossary of Terms