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NASA's Mars Rock Identified; Scientist Challenges Findings

3/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

NASA identified the cone-shaped object on Mars as a naturally occurring wind-formed rock.
The size was revised from 20 centimeters to about 1 centimeter.
Avi Loeb, a Harvard University astrophysicist, disputes NASA's assessment, claiming a smooth cylindrical surface and noting no similar formations nearby, and he challenges NASA to show comparable rocks.
NASA says pareidolia explains the feature, but Loeb remains skeptical and urges investigation with the Curiosity rover.

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Story summary

NASA identified the cone-shaped object on Mars as a naturally occurring wind-formed rock.
The size was revised from 20 centimeters to about 1 centimeter.
Avi Loeb, a Harvard University astrophysicist, disputes NASA's assessment, claiming a smooth cylindrical surface and noting no similar formations nearby, and he challenges NASA to show comparable rocks.
NASA says pareidolia explains the feature, but Loeb remains skeptical and urges investigation with the Curiosity rover.