NWA 7034 (Black Beauty)

Discovered in 2011 in the deserts of Morocco, NWA 7034, famously nicknamed “Black Beauty,” is one of the most scientifically valuable Martian meteorites ever found. This extraordinary specimen stands out among thousands of known meteorites due to its unique composition, age, and water content. Believed to have originated from the Martian surface, it was ejected into space by a powerful impact event millions of years ago before eventually landing on Earth.

What makes NWA 7034 truly exceptional is its complex mixture of ancient and relatively young volcanic material. Laboratory analyses—particularly those conducted by NASA and other leading planetary science institutions—revealed that it contains fragments of basaltic rock that are over 4.4 billion years old, making them the oldest known Martian materials ever studied. These ancient fragments are embedded in a younger matrix, indicating a dynamic geological history that spans a significant portion of Mars’ evolution.

Another defining feature of NWA 7034 is its unusually high water content. Compared to other Martian meteorites, Black Beauty contains up to 10 times more water, primarily in the form of hydroxyl ions locked within its mineral structure. This discovery has provided compelling evidence that water was not only present on Mars but also interacted with the Martian crust over extended periods. As such, Black Beauty plays a critical role in our understanding of Mars’ climatic and hydrologic history.

In addition to its scientific importance, the meteorite’s aesthetic appeal also captivates collectors and researchers alike. Its polished black fusion crust and dense, fine-grained interior have earned it the poetic moniker “Black Beauty.” Due to its rarity, age, and geochemical complexity, NWA 7034 is considered one of the most significant Martian meteorites ever recovered. Today, it continues to be studied in laboratories around the world, offering invaluable insights into the early history of the Red Planet and the possibility of past life beyond Earth.