Martian Meteorite NWA 17472 – 0,4g – Northwest Africa
Type: Martian meteorite /Shergottite
Locality: Northwest Africa
Weight: 0,4g
Dimensions: 15 x 11 x 1 mm
Year found: 2024
Total known weight: 4 kg
Surface treatment: cut, polished slice
Packaging: Transparent plastic box (5,8 x 3,8 x 1,6 cm)
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NWA 17472 – Martian Meteorite
NWA 17472 is a rare Martian meteorite that was found in Northwest Africa in 2024 and officially classified in 2025 as a basaltic shergottite. The total known weight of the meteorite is approximately 4 kilograms, with the main mass consisting of two stones found together.
Mineral Composition and Structure
NWA 17472 has a fine-grained igneous texture typical of basaltic shergottites. Approximately half of the meteorite consists of clinopyroxene, while about 40% is composed of maskelynite. Smaller amounts of merrillite, titanomagnetite, ilmenite, and troilite are also present. A polished cut reveals gray pyroxene crystals and lustrous maskelynite, giving the meteorite its distinctive appearance.
Origin from Mars
NWA 17472 represents an authentic sample of the Martian crust, formed by the crystallization of magma at or near the surface of Mars. It is classified as an evolved basaltic shergottite, whose chemical composition reflects the progressive evolution of Martian magma.
Rarity
Martian meteorites are among the rarest meteorites found on Earth and represent only a tiny fraction of all meteorites known to date. With a total known weight of approximately 4 kilograms, NWA 17472 is an exceptionally rare material originating from the planet Mars.