Science

Unveiling the Cosmos: A New Interstellar Comet and the Secrets of Enceladus

2025-07-20

Author: Ming

Cosmic Surprise: An Interstellar Comet Joins Our Solar Family

In a stunning revelation, astronomers have discovered Comet 3I/ATLAS, an interstellar visitor that might hold clues about the galaxy's history. This isn’t just any comet; it's the third known object from outside our solar system, following ‘Oumuamua and Borisov. What's particularly striking is its staggering speed—traveling at 57 kilometers per second (over 200,000 kilometers per hour) as it zooms through our solar system.

Observational studies have revealed that this cosmic traveler displays a reddish hue, reinforcing its claim as an outsider. It bears structural similarities to familiar comets, intriguing scientists as they work tirelessly to unravel its origins. Chris Lintott, an astrophysicist from Oxford University, suggests that this comet likely hails from an aged star nestled in the thick disk of our galaxy, potentially older than our very own solar system!

What Makes Comet 3I/ATLAS So Unique?

Unlike its speedy predecessors, 3I/ATLAS grants researchers ample time for observation. This December, it will reach its closest approach at a distance of about 250 million kilometers from Earth, offering astronomers a perfect opportunity to study its enigmatic makeup through powerful telescopes.

Secrets Beneath the Ice: Enceladus' Hidden Ocean