Home / Science / Hubble Captures Stunning Image of Interstellar Comet Hurtling Through Solar System
Hubble Captures Stunning Image of Interstellar Comet Hurtling Through Solar System
7 Aug
Summary
- Hubble Space Telescope captures best picture yet of interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS
- Comet is hurtling through solar system at 130,000 mph, poses no threat to Earth
- Hubble reveals comet's small icy core, teardrop-shaped dust plume, and faint tail
In a remarkable feat of space exploration, the Hubble Space Telescope has captured the most detailed image yet of the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS as it speeds through our solar system. Discovered just last month by a telescope in Chile, this comet is only the third known interstellar object to pass our way, and it poses no threat to Earth.
Hubble's observations have provided valuable new insights into the comet's composition and structure. Originally estimated to have an icy core several miles across, the latest data from Hubble has narrowed that down to no more than 3.5 miles, and it could even be as small as 1,000 feet. The telescope also revealed a teardrop-shaped plume of dust surrounding the nucleus, as well as faint traces of a dusty tail.
Hurtling through space at an astonishing 130,000 mph, 3I/ATLAS will make its closest approach to Mars, keeping a safe distance from both the red planet and Earth. As this rare interstellar visitor continues its journey, astronomers are eager to learn more about its origins and the secrets it may hold about the formation of our solar system and beyond.
