The interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS was first observed on July 1 by the NASA-funded ATLAS survey in Chile. This comet, traveling at 137,000 miles per hour and originating from another star system, is distinct from typical comets that are bound by our solar system’s gravity. Unlike previous interstellar objects, 3I/ATLAS provides a longer window for observation. Astronomers are eager to study it in October, as it offers insights into the uniqueness of our solar system before it permanently passes by.
The interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS was detected by the NASA-funded ATLAS survey telescope on July 1 while traveling at 137,000 miles per hour from another star system.
This is only the third confirmed interstellar object through the solar system, with 3I/ATLAS expected to remain 150 million miles away from Earth.
Planetary astronomer Teddy Kareta notes the eagerness to study 3I/ATLAS, as it may provide insight about the uniqueness of our solar system before it is lost forever.
As 3I/ATLAS approaches Earth in October, astronomers await the opportunity to study the comet closely under dark skies with large telescopes.
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