3I/ATLAS Live Updates: Comet Location, When It Could Pass Earth, Be Visible
Summary
A comet called 3I/ATLAS from outside our solar system is nearing the sun. It will be closest to the sun on Wednesday, but won't be visible without a telescope because of its great distance from Earth. The comet poses no threat to Earth and will be visible from the Northern Hemisphere by early December.Key Facts
- 3I/ATLAS is an interstellar comet, meaning it comes from outside our solar system.
- Scientists discovered the comet on July 1 using the NASA-funded ATLAS telescope in Chile.
- It will be closest to the sun, known as "perihelion," this Wednesday.
- The comet will stay at a safe distance, at least 240 million kilometers away from Earth.
- It is too dim to see with the naked eye because it is far from the sun and Earth.
- The comet will be visible in the Northern Hemisphere in early December, with its nearest pass to Earth on December 19.
- Before 3I/ATLAS, the other two interstellar objects discovered were 1I/`Oumuamua and 2I/Borisov.
- Scientists note the comet shows typical features of solar system comets, including releasing nickel vapor.
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