3IATLAS – Foto: Jack_the_sparow/Shutterstock.com
An interstellar comet, identified as 3I/ATLAS, originating from another solar system, is at risk of collapsing due to intense solar heat. Discovered in 2023, the celestial object is nearing its perihelion, the closest point to the Sun, where extreme temperatures may fragment it. Astronomers are monitoring the comet, which shows signs of instability, with observations indicating possible disintegration in the coming months. The event is rare, as interstellar comets cross our solar system only a few times per century.
The 3I/ATLAS was detected by telescopes of the ATLAS project (Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System). Its hyperbolic trajectory confirms an origin outside the solar system, making it the third known interstellar comet, following ‘Oumuamua and 2I/Borisov. Preliminary data suggest that the comet, composed of ice and dust, may not withstand solar gravitational and thermal forces.
- Observations show increased gas release, a sign of heating.
- Fragments could create meteor showers visible from Earth.
- Telescopes like Hubble track the phenomenon in real time.
Origin and trajectory of the comet
The 3I/ATLAS comes from an unknown region beyond the Oort Cloud, thousands of light-years away. Its speed and orbit suggest it is not bound by solar gravity.
Astronomers estimate the comet traveled for millions of years before entering the solar system. Its composition, rich in volatile compounds, makes it vulnerable to heat.
Risks of imminent collapse
The comet is months away from reaching perihelion, expected in 2026. Observations show cracks in its nucleus, indicating potential fragmentation.
Proximity to the Sun increases ice sublimation, releasing gas jets.
Intense heat may destabilize the structure, causing total rupture.
If it collapses, 3I/ATLAS could form a debris trail in space.
Global monitoring
Telescopes worldwide track 3I/ATLAS, with data collected by observatories in Hawaii and Chile. NASA and ESA collaborate in studying the phenomenon.
Spectroscopic analysis reveals rare compounds, like organic molecules, offering clues about distant stellar system formation.
Monitoring also assesses whether comet fragments could reach Earth, though the risk is low.
Scientific impacts
Studying 3I/ATLAS provides a unique window into interstellar objects. Its composition differs from local comets, suggesting distinct chemical processes in its home system.
Potential disintegration could yield valuable data on comet internal structures.
Future observations
Monitoring will intensify in the coming months, focusing on perihelion. Astronomers aim to capture detailed images of possible fragmentations.
