Comet 3I/ATLAS appears more active in unprecedented images from Hubble and ESA’s JUICE probe
NASA and Agência Espacial Europeia (ESA) released detailed images of the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS this week. The records were obtained by the Telescópio Espacial Hubble and the Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer probe (JUICE). The object shows high activity after passing through perihelion in October 2025.
The comet travels at approximately 210 thousand kilometers per hour and approaches Terra. The minimum distance will occur on December 19, when it will be around 270 million kilometers from the planet. Essa proximity allows for detailed scientific observations before the visitor leaves Sistema Solar for good.
The images show the nucleus surrounded by a bright coma and two distinct tails. The data indicates that 3I/ATLAS released a large amount of gas and dust after solar heating.
Telescópio Espacial Hubble Records
Hubble captured the comet with a technique that follows its rapid movement. Background stars appear as long dashes in the image.
The coma, the atmosphere of gas and dust that surrounds the nucleus, presents an intense glow. Esse phenomenon results from the sublimation of volatile materials by solar heat.
Close observation by the JUICE probe
The JUICE probe recorded the comet just 66 million kilometers away. The NavCam instrument clearly identified two distinct tails.
- Plasma tail: formed by ionized gas, points away from the Sol due to radiation pressure.
- Dust tail: fainter and more curved, it follows the comet’s orbital trajectory.
The proximity allowed for higher resolution than the images from Hubble.
Physical characteristics revealed
Estimates point to a core diameter of between 440 meters and 5.6 kilometers. Caso confirmed, 3I/ATLAS would be the largest interstellar object ever observed.
The passage through perihelion intensified the release of material. The phenomenon explains the sudden increase in brightness recorded.
Tracking multi-mission campaign
Six NASA spacecraft participated in the simultaneous observations. Rovers on Marte and solar orbiters also directed instruments at the comet.
Telescópio Espacial James Webb is expected to contribute data in the coming weeks. Astrônomos terrestrials continue coordinated monitoring.
Next steps in data analysis
JUICE’s scientific instruments collected detailed spectroscopic information. The complete transmission of this data to Terra is scheduled for February 2026.
These records will make it possible to determine the chemical composition of the nucleus. The material could reveal formation conditions in another star system.
Scientific importance of interstellar object
3I/ATLAS is the third confirmed object of extrasolar origin in Sistema Solar. Sua hyperbolic trajectory proves that it is not gravitationally bound to Sol.
The study opportunity is unique. Após December 2025, the comet will head into interstellar space with no expected return.
