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Mars Rocks Fell to Earth in July: Scientists

Meteorites were collected in Africa

By Evann Gastaldo,  Newser Staff

Posted Jan 17, 2012 10:52 AM CST

(Newser) – We may not be able to get people to Mars yet, but Mars can get to us. Fifteen pounds of meteorite that fell to Earth over Morocco last July came from the red planet, scientists confirm. The largest chunk is more than two pounds, the AP reports. Astronomers believe something smashed into Mars millions of years ago, resulting in fragments flying through the solar system and occasionally falling to Earth; this marks just the fifth time experts have confirmed Martian rocks falling to Earth.

This handout photo provided by Darryl Pitt of the Macovich Collection shows an external view of a Martian meteorite recovered in December 2011 near Foumzgit, Morocco.
This handout photo provided by Darryl Pitt of the Macovich Collection shows an external view of a Martian meteorite recovered in December 2011 near Foumzgit, Morocco.   (AP Photo/Darryl Pitt, Macovich Collection)
This photo provided by Darryl Pitt of the Macovich Collection shows a view of the internal structure of the first Martian meteorite (specimens of the planet Mars) known to have struck Earth in 49 years.
This photo provided by Darryl Pitt of the Macovich Collection shows a view of the internal structure of the first Martian meteorite (specimens of the planet Mars) known to have struck Earth in 49 years.   (AP Photo/Darryl Pitt of the Macovich Collection)
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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 3 comments
SilenceDogood
Jan 17, 2012 6:36 PM CST
Maybe this is the rock that Pelosi crawed out from under?
Rational.-Anarchist
Jan 17, 2012 6:24 PM CST
We better leave Mars alone before they start throwing lots BIGGER rocks at us! (See "Starship Troopers," " The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress.")
HewHessofHay
Jan 17, 2012 1:20 PM CST
It's hilarious that so many folks find this annoying or depressing or scary.  B^)
 

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