A breathtaking interstellar comet is making its way towards the Sun, and you can witness this celestial event live today!

Meet 3I/ATLAS, the latest cosmic interloper from the depths of space, marking its place in astronomical history as only the third confirmed object from outside our solar system. Previously, we welcomed 'Oumuamua in 2017 and comet 2I/Borisov in 2019. Discovered on July 1 by the NASA-funded ATLAS telescope in Chile, this comet showcases fascinating characteristics that have astronomers buzzing.

According to the Minor Planet Center (MPC), 3I/ATLAS, formerly known as C/2025 N1 (ATLAS), exhibits indications of cometary activity, including a faint coma and a short 3-inch tail.

Don't miss out! You can tune into the comet's journey this evening (July 3) at 6:00 p.m. EDT (2200 GMT), courtesy of the Virtual Telescope Project. They will be live-streaming stunning views from their telescopes in Manciano, Italy, provided the weather cooperates. Access the livestream on Virtual Telescope's WebTV or YouTube channel.

Currently, 3I/ATLAS lies approximately 4.5 astronomical units (about 670 million kilometers or 416 million miles) from the Sun, shining at a faint magnitude of 18.8. Unfortunately, it’s too dim for backyard astronomers to spot. However, as it approaches perihelion on October 30, when it will come within 1.4 AU (130 million miles or 210 million km) of the Sun, it’s predicted to brighten.

The Virtual Telescope Project captured an intriguing image of 3I/ATLAS on July 2, showcasing the comet as a vibrant point of light against a backdrop of streaking stars, emphasizing its swift movement across the cosmos.

Traveling at an astonishing speed of 68 kilometers per second (152,000 mph) relative to the Sun, this celestial entity poses no threat to Earth, as confirmed by NASA. Once it dips behind the Sun in late fall, comet 3I/ATLAS is expected to re-emerge in early December, offering astronomers a rare second chance to observe this fascinating visitor from beyond our cosmic neighborhood.

So, mark your calendars to catch this celestial marvel live and experience the wonder of deep space right from your home!