CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — Recent telescope observations have unveiled a growing tail on the comet 3I-Atlas, which is making its way through our solar system from another star. Released on Thursday, these stunning images taken by the Gemini South telescope in Chile late last month provide the most detailed view yet of this intriguing celestial body.
The newly released pictures highlight a broad coma of dust and gas surrounding the icy nucleus of the comet as it accelerates towards the sun. Notably, the tail of the comet appears to be more extended than in previous observations, indicating increased activity. According to the National Space Foundation’s NoirLab, which oversees the telescope, these findings confirm that 3I-Atlas is becoming increasingly dynamic as it navigates through our solar system.
Comet 3I-Atlas holds the distinction of being only the third known interstellar object to visit our solar system. As of Thursday, this fascinating comet was located approximately 238 million miles (or 384 million kilometers) from Earth and is steadily drawing closer. NASA has indicated that 3I-Atlas will make its closest approach to the sun by the end of October, followed by a near encounter with Earth in December, when it will be about 167 million miles (269 million kilometers) away—still farther than the sun.
The Associated Press Health and Science Department, which covers these incredible findings, receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. However, it is essential to note that the AP is solely responsible for all content related to this article.
As we continue to observe comet 3I-Atlas, the scientific community is excited about the potential insights this interstellar visitor may provide about the origins of our solar system and the broader universe. Stay tuned for further updates as this remarkable comet approaches our sun and Earth!
