A fresh image of comet 3I/ATLAS has caught everyone’s attention. This interstellar visitor is glowing a striking green, although it’s missing its tail in the photos. But don’t worry; that’s perfectly normal!
Qicheng Zhang, a researcher at the Lowell Observatory in Arizona, made recent observations using a powerful telescope. The comet, which became visible again after passing behind the sun, offers a unique chance to study its characteristics.
When comets get close to the sun, they develop an atmosphere called a coma. This happens because the sun heats up the comet, turning ice into gas. In this case, the comet shines brightest with a green filter—typical for many comets that pass near the sun. Zhang used this technique to spot diatomic carbon particles, which glow green. He explained that the sun’s UV rays break apart large carbon and hydrogen molecules present in the comet, allowing astronomers to detect them easily.
Interestingly, while the image shows no clear dust tail, Zhang pointed out a slight brighter glow on one side of the comet. This suggests the tail is still there, just hidden. It lights up as it curves around the comet, making it less visible from our vantage point.
Since its discovery in July, comet 3I/ATLAS has created a buzz. Some even speculated it might be an alien spacecraft! However, most scientists agree it’s just a comet from an unknown star system. It’s only the third interstellar visitor ever recorded and might even be the oldest, predicted to be around 3 billion years older than our solar system.
Recent research has indicated that this comet has been exposed to intense space radiation, resulting in a thick outer crust. If true, this could make it challenging for scientists to determine the comet’s origins, as it might vent altered materials rather than those from its original star system.
After passing its closest point to the sun on October 29, the comet is now more visible. Early risers can catch a glimpse of it in the morning sky. Observations are crucial now, as comets are often most active after they’ve approached the sun, which allows experts to learn more about their gases and structure.
Zhang took various images of 3I/ATLAS, including one showcasing its diatomic carbon glow. Those images reveal what the comet might look like if we could see it with our own eyes.
In a shared study published recently, Zhang noted that 3I/ATLAS had brightened significantly before perihelion, appearing bluer than the sun. This mix of colors could indicate a fascinating change in the comet’s properties. He mentioned that it’s brightest in the bluest filters they tested.
As the comet continues its journey, it’s becoming accessible for observation even with smaller telescopes. Expect exciting discoveries about this extraordinary comet in the upcoming months. Keep an eye out; it’s not every day we get a glimpse of such cosmic wonders!
For further insights on comets, check out NASA’s facts on comets.
