The unusual acceleration of the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS, detected in July 2025, was explained by a study published on the arXiv server. The research, led by Florian Neukart, from Leiden University, points out that the degassing of volatiles, such as carbon monoxide and dioxide, is sufficient to justify the movement, ruling out exotic hypotheses. Observations from the MeerKAT radio telescope confirmed the release of water, reinforcing the conclusion. The comet, the third interstellar object identified in the Solar System, continues to be monitored.
The study analyzed the trajectory of 3I/ATLAS, which exhibits characteristics typical of comets, such as an icy nucleus and ionic and dust tails. The non-gravitational acceleration, observed 203 million km from the Sun, intrigued scientists. The research used simulations to confirm that less than 1% of the comet’s active surface generates the thrust.
- Degassing of volatiles explains the accelerated movement.
- Less than 1% of the comet’s surface is enough for thrust.
- MeerKAT radio telescope detected hydroxyl molecules, indicating water.
Boost Source
Neukart’s study used thermophysical models and the Monte Carlo method to test gas combinations. The results indicate that common volatiles, such as carbon monoxide, drive the comet. Substances such as ammonia and methane, although present, have a secondary effect on ice mixtures.
Conventional explanation
The research ruled out theories such as sunlight pressure or artificial technologies, common in similar cases. Neukart highlights that a simple physical mechanism is sufficient. Comet 3I/ATLAS, captured by the Virtual Telescope Project in November 2025, shows a growing ionic tail, confirming intense activity.
Continuous monitoring
New observations are essential to validate the model, according to Neukart. MeerKAT continues to track water emissions from the comet. Detailed analysis may reveal clues about the formation of planetary systems, as 3I/ATLAS came from outside the Solar System. The comet is millions of kilometers away, but its trajectory is monitored in real time by astronomers. Tools like TheSkyLive.com allow the public to monitor their position.
Scientific contribution
The study reinforces the importance of explanations based on physical evidence, avoiding speculation. The discovery alleviates the need for unconventional hypotheses, such as those suggested for the asteroid ‘Oumuamua. Neukart emphasizes that outgassing is a common process in comets, even in interstellar visitors. The research, still under review, could pave the way for new studies on objects of extrasolar origin, expanding understanding of the dynamics of comets and the composition of stellar systems.distant airs.
Comet data
3I/ATLAS was identified on July 1, 2025, after ‘Oumuamua (2017) and 2I/Borisov (2019). Its bright core and tails were quickly confirmed, indicating a cometary nature.
Future outlook
3I/ATLAS analysis can shed light on the origin of materials in distant planetary systems. Its composition, rich in volatiles, suggests similarities to local comets, but with particularities that intrigue scientists.
