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Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS Glows as It Nears Sun

11/8/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Comet 3I/ATLAS, the third known interstellar object, was discovered in July 2025 and passed close to the Sun on October 30, 2025.
Qicheng Zhang of the Lowell Observatory notes the green glow from diatomic carbon as the comet becomes visible from Earth.
Scientists confirm it is a comet and that its trajectory poses no threat to Earth.
Astronomers study its composition and origins, with missions tracking its path.

History

Historical Context

The discovery of Comet 1I/2017 U1, later named ‘Oumuamua, in 2017 marked the first confirmed interstellar object in our solar system, exhibiting a hyperbolic trajectory and no cometary activity. This finding, alongside the later discovery of Comet 3I/ATLAS in 2025, underscores advancements in astronomical technology and the potential for understanding cosmic formation and the dynamics of interstellar objects.

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Story summary

Comet 3I/ATLAS, the third known interstellar object, was discovered in July 2025 and passed close to the Sun on October 30, 2025.
Qicheng Zhang of the Lowell Observatory notes the green glow from diatomic carbon as the comet becomes visible from Earth.
Scientists confirm it is a comet and that its trajectory poses no threat to Earth.
Astronomers study its composition and origins, with missions tracking its path.

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