Rare meteorite temporarily at Space Expo
This summer, Space Expo is showcasing a very special object: a Gibeon meteorite! It will be auctioned on August 30th, so this is your last chance to see it up close and even touch it!
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Valuable and rare
This iron meteorite is billions of years old, weighs 240 kg and struck the Earth a few thousand years ago. It wasn't discovered until the 19th century near the village of Gibeon in Namibia. Export from this region is no longer possible, but this object arrived in the Netherlands before these regulations came into effect.
Iron meteorites are rare compared to other types. This large fragment of the Gibeon meteorite is especially remarkable because it has remained so well-preserved. You can even see burn marks from its journey through the atmosphere. Thanks to its high iron and nickel content, it has barely rusted.
Space Expo had its authenticity verified by international experts, including the IMCA and Professor Chris Herd from Canada. We are certain: this is a genuine piece of the Gibeon meteorite. It is truly unique, as there are only 87 other similar meteorites known worldwide!
Largest iron meteorite ever auctioned
The meteorite is owned by the Mercurius Observatory in Dordrecht. They are offering it for auction to raise funds for a new planetarium and to renovate their exhibition. The auction is being conducted by Hessink Fine Art Auctioneers.
The meteorite will go under the hammer at Space Expo on August 30th. Expectations are high, as it is the largest iron meteorite in the world ever to be offered at auction!
Win a spot at the private auction
You can still see and touch the meteorite until August 30th. Visit Space Expo soon and take a selfie with the Gibeon meteorite. Share your photo on Instagram or Facebook, tag Space Expo and use the hashtag #gibeonmeteoriet. The best entry will win a great prize and get to attend the exclusive auction! You can enter until August 23rd.
Tip: Meteorite consultation hour
Do you think you've found a meteorite yourself? Come to Space Expo on August 23rd and have your find examined by meteorite expert Sebastiaan de Vet! You can attend the consultation hour (from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM) for free without an extra reservation upon presentation of a Space Expo ticket.
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