Martian meteorites are rare extraterrestrial rocks originating from the planet Mars, ejected into space by large impact events and eventually delivered to Earth. Their Martian origin is firmly established through mineralogical, chemical, and isotopic signatures that match data obtained from orbital and surface missions to Mars.
These meteorites are traditionally grouped under the SNC classification, an acronym derived from three historic falls: Shergotty, Nakhla, and Chassigny. Despite this common designation, Martian meteorites represent a diverse suite of igneous rocks that record multiple stages of volcanic and magmatic activity on Mars.
Based on mineralogy and texture, Martian meteorites are subdivided into several related groups, including basaltic shergottites, olivine-phyric shergottites, lherzolitic shergottites, nakhlites, and chassignites. A further rare category, orthopyroxenites, is currently represented by a single known specimen. Together, these groups provide direct insight into the internal structure, magmatic evolution, and geological history of the Martian crust and mantle.
Martian meteorites are among the rarest materials available for study and collection. Each specimen offers a tangible connection to Mars, combining exceptional scientific value with profound historical and cultural significance as direct samples of another planetary body.
