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Historic Meteorite Auction Shatters Expectations
Sterrenwacht Mercurius in Dordrecht has achieved a remarkable financial breakthrough after auctioning a rare 240-kilogram fragment of the Gibeon meteorite for €1.7 million. The auction, conducted by Hessink Fine Art Auctioneers, far exceeded pre-sale estimates of €800,000 to €1 million, providing the struggling observatory with essential funding for its survival and expansion.
Observatory's Financial Lifeline
Erik Blokland, a representative from the Dordrecht observatory, described the result as "bizarre and fantastic." The observatory had been facing financial difficulties and decided to auction the meteorite to secure its future. "We were sweating in places we didn't know could sweat," Blokland admitted as bidding escalated beyond expectations.
The Gibeon Meteorite: A Cosmic Treasure
The auctioned meteorite represents a significant piece of cosmic history. Formed approximately 4.5 billion years ago, the Gibeon meteorite originated as the molten core of an asteroid that orbited the sun between Mars and Jupiter. This particular fragment displays the distinctive Widmanstätten pattern—triangular crystalline structures that form in iron-nickel alloys during extremely slow cooling in the vacuum of space.
Historical Significance and Journey
The original Gibeon meteorite, weighing approximately 26,000 kilograms, fragmented upon atmospheric entry thousands of years ago, scattering across what is now Namibia's Kalahari Desert. Indigenous Nama people first discovered and utilized the meteoritic iron for tools and weapons. During colonial times, fragments were transported to Europe, with this particular 240-kilogram piece previously owned by an Arizona-based company before being acquired by Sterrenwacht Mercurius in 2004.
Future Plans for the Observatory
The unexpected windfall will enable comprehensive renovations of the observatory facilities and completion of a planned planetarium. The funds will ensure the institution's continued operation as an educational and astronomical resource for the Dordrecht community and beyond.
Meteorite Market Trends
This auction establishes a new benchmark for meteorite sales, reflecting growing interest in space-related collectibles and scientific specimens. The winning bidder was identified only as an "American bidder," continuing the trend of international collectors investing in significant cosmic artifacts.
