The interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS has been recognized as one of the oldest ever observed by astronomers—its age is estimated at 10 to 12 billion years. Analysis of data from the James Webb Telescope suggests that the comet originated in the cold and distant regions of the early Milky Way.
The European Space Agency has released the first images of the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS, captured by the Juice spacecraft on its way to Jupiter. This data will provide new insights into the structure and origin of this rare object.
The Europa Clipper interplanetary station may pass through the tail of the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS in the fall of 2025. If the probe detects particles from the comet, it would mark the first confirmed contact with an object from another star system.
The interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS is moving twice as fast as its predecessors, and scientists are unable to explain its unusually high speed. The origin of this object remains a mystery.
Astronomers suggest creating a special space probe in advance to avoid missing unique opportunities to study interstellar objects that enter the Solar System. This approach would allow for a rapid response to new discoveries and help gather valuable data about the Universe.