NASA’s official release notes that the agency will continue monitoring 31/ATLAS as it moves deeper into the solar system, eventually passing the orbit of Jupiter in 2026.
NASA release: https://www.nasa.gov
Associated Press report: Associated Press News: Breaking News, Latest Headlines and Videos | AP News
NASA Opens Window into the Ancient Past
The comet’s size is estimated between 1,444 feet and 3.5 miles, and early findings suggest it originated from a star system much older than our own.
“That means that 3I/ATLAS is not just a window into another solar system, it’s a window into the deep past—and so deep in the past that it predates even the formation of our Earth and our sun,” explained NASA scientist Tom Statler.
Since July 1, twelve NASA instruments—including space telescopes, planetary orbiters, and ground-based observatories—have captured data and imagery. More are expected to contribute as 31/ATLAS continues its high-speed journey.
Anticipation Builds for Photo Release of 31/ATLAS
Interest in 31/ATLAS surged following NASA’s first high-resolution Hubble image released three months ago. Since then, online obsession has skyrocketed.
