Comet 3I/ATLAS reaches its closest point to the Sun this Wednesday, the 29th
The interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS reaches perihelion on October 29, at 1.4 astronomical units from the Sun, equivalent to 210 million kilometers. The object, detected by NASA in July, forms a tail due to solar heating of the nucleus. Images from the Gemini South telescope in Chile, captured on August 27, show the development of the coma and tail.
The 3I/ATLAS is the third confirmed interstellar object in the solar system. It moves toward Mars and should become visible again in November, after passing on the opposite side of the Sun.
- Origin: Unknown star system.
- Size: Largest among detected interstellar objects.
- Speed: Fastest recorded.
Gemini South observations
The Gemini South telescope captured the sharpest image of 3I/ATLAS on August 27. Solar radiation heats the ice in the nucleus, releasing gas and dust.
Mais sobre o assunto: Comet 3I/ATLAS from another star system approaches perihelion on 29th with dominant CO2 makeup
The tail forms due to solar wind pressure, angled away from the Sun. Processing froze the background stars to highlight the comet’s movement.
Object characteristics
The 3I/ATLAS is classified as a comet due to its ice and dust composition. It travels through half the solar system since detection. Astronomers consider it the oldest observed interstellar object. The trajectory indicates origin outside the solar system.
Perihelion and effects
Perihelion occurs at 210 million kilometers from the Sun. Heating intensifies material release. Gas geysers may increase brightness in November. Ground and orbital telescopes monitor the event.
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Images and processing
Gemini South photos show a bright plume around the nucleus. Processing highlighted the prominent tail. Techniques froze the stellar background. Credits go to the international observatory team.
Saiba mais: Comet 3I/Atlas reaches perihelion on 10/29 at 1.36 AU and enters solar occultation phase
Current trajectory
The comet advances in the inner solar system. It currently crosses toward Mars. Departure begins after perihelion. The object will leave the system in months.
Future monitoring
Ground and orbital instruments track 3I/ATLAS. Observations reveal galactic composition. Collected data include speed and size. The comet will not return to the solar system.
Detection details
NASA confirmed 3I/ATLAS in July. The object was identified by the ATLAS system. It is the third interstellar after 1I/’Oumuamua and 2I/Borisov. Detection occurred on a hyperbolic trajectory.
The study of 3I/ATLAS uses multiple telescopes to analyze ejected material, rotation speed, and tail variations, providing data on formation in distant systems. The minimum distance to the Sun allows high-speed gas ejection, altering appearance. November observations compare changes in brightness and tail extension. The interstellar origin confirms ejection from another star system.
