Gigantic Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS Shows Unusual Acceleration, Turns Blue Near Sun
Astronomers have observed that the newly discovered interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS, first identified this summer, exhibits a mysterious acceleration not driven by gravity and has turned noticeably blue as it neared the Sun.
Strange Acceleration and Possible Causes
Harvard University astrophysicist Avi Loeb noted that NASA’s data revealed this non-gravitational acceleration, likely the result of gas escaping from the comet as it heats up near the Sun. According to Loeb, the comet could lose nearly half of its mass and form a vast trail of debris over the next few months.
“The non-gravitational acceleration might be the technological signature of an internal engine.” — Avi Loeb
Observation Challenges and Future Monitoring
Currently, 3I/ATLAS remains hidden behind the Sun, making it unobservable from Earth. Astronomers expect it to become visible again in early December, when ground-based telescopes will resume tracking its movement.
Until that time, NASA and its international partners, including the European Space Agency (ESA), continue to monitor the comet using instruments aboard spacecraft positioned beyond Earth’s atmosphere.
“@NASA’s observations show that this is the third interstellar comet to pass through our solar system. No threat to life here on Earth.” — Sean Duffy, NASA Acting Administrator
Author Summary
The interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS shows puzzling acceleration and color changes, intriguing scientists as it prepares to reappear from behind the Sun in December.