π NASA Detects 'Interstellar Visitor' Hurtling Through Solar System at 152,000 mph
Astronomers have identified a mysterious space object, designated 3I/ATLAS, racing through our solar system at an astonishing 60 kilometres per second. Believed to have originated from another star system, this “cosmic visitor” marks only the third confirmed interstellar object ever detected by humans.
According to NASA, the comet-like body is expected to make its closest approach to the Sun in four months before leaving the solar system forever.
π What Is 3I/ATLAS?
The International Astronomical Union's Minor Planet Centre (MPC) confirmed the object’s interstellar origin after analysing its trajectory.
-
Size: Estimated between 10 and 20 km wide (possibly smaller if composed mainly of ice).
-
Speed: Travelling at 152,000 mph (245,000 km/h).
-
Path: Currently moving inward and will pass just inside Mars’ orbit.
Despite its immense speed and size, experts have reassured the public that 3I/ATLAS poses no threat to Earth.
π How Was It Discovered?
Originally labelled A11pl3Z, the object was first detected by the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS), which uses telescopes in Hawaii and South Africa to scan the skies for potential hazards.
Once its trajectory was studied, the MPC designated it interstellar, confirming it is not gravitationally bound to the Sun and is simply passing through our cosmic neighbourhood.
πͺ Not the First Interstellar Visitor
This is only the third time astronomers have confirmed an object from outside our solar system:
-
1I/Κ»Oumuamua (2017): A cigar-shaped object that sparked speculation about alien origins.
-
2I/Borisov (2019): A comet that sailed through our system.
-
3I/ATLAS (2025): The largest interstellar object observed so far.
Unlike Oumuamua and Borisov, 3I/ATLAS is much larger and traveling on a hyperbolic trajectory, ensuring it will never return.
π‘️ Is 3I/ATLAS Dangerous?
According to Richard Moissl of the European Space Agency, there is no risk to Earth or nearby planets. As it passes through the solar system, it will remain at a safe distance from all major celestial bodies.
π Why Is This Discovery Important?
Interstellar objects give scientists a rare chance to study materials from beyond our solar system. Observations of 3I/ATLAS could provide clues about the composition of distant planetary systems and even the formation of the universe.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. The information provided is based on data from NASA and the Minor Planet Centre. For official updates, visit NASA’s website.
π Original Source
This news article is based on the original report by NDTV: NASA Detects 'Interstellar Visitor' Hurtling Through Solar System
