Home / Science / Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS Triggers Global Simulation for Planetary Defense
Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS Triggers Global Simulation for Planetary Defense
23 Oct
Summary
- Interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS larger than Manhattan, traveling at extreme speeds
- Exhibits unusual behavior, including an 'anti-tail' pointing toward the Sun
- Officially added to UN-endorsed planetary defense monitoring list
As of October 23rd, 2025, Earth's planetary defense efforts are being bolstered by the addition of the mysterious interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS to the monitoring list of a United Nations-endorsed group focused on protecting the planet from near-Earth objects.
3I/ATLAS, the third known object from outside our solar system to pass through our celestial neighborhood, has been exhibiting unusual behavior that is defying some of the long-held rules of cosmic physics. Larger than Manhattan and traveling at nearly twice the speed of earlier interstellar visitors, the comet has presented unique challenges for predicting its trajectory.
In response, the International Asteroid Warning Network (IAWN) has decided to conduct a special training exercise from November 27, 2025, to January 27, 2026. During this period, telescopes and tracking systems worldwide will focus on 3I/ATLAS, aiming to refine techniques for precisely locating it in the sky and enhancing Earth's readiness for potential cosmic threats.
