Discovery of the Rare Maryborough Meteorite
Man Keeps a Rock For Years Hoping It's Gold. It Turns Out to Be Far More Valuable. 🔗
David Hole discovered a heavy, reddish rock while prospecting in Maryborough Regional Park, Australia, believing it contained gold. After years of failed attempts to open it, he learned it was a rare meteorite, which researchers later named Maryborough. Weighing 17 kilograms and estimated to be 4.6 billion years old, this meteorite is much rarer and more valuable than gold. It provides insights into the Solar System's formation and contains unique features like chondrules. The meteorite likely originated from the asteroid belt and offers clues about the early Earth and the universe.
What did David Hole initially think the heavy rock was?
David Hole initially believed the heavy rock was a gold nugget.
How did researchers confirm the rock's true identity?
Researchers confirmed the rock was a meteorite after examining its unusual weight and composition, publishing a scientific paper about it.
Why is the Maryborough meteorite considered more valuable than gold?
The Maryborough meteorite is considered more valuable than gold because it is much rarer, providing significant scientific insights into the formation and chemistry of the Solar System.