Interstellar comet 3I/Atlas reaches a speed of 57 km/s as it approaches the Solar System. This mark allows the object to escape the Sun’s gravitational pull without entering orbit. Astronomers detected the celestial body on a hyperbolic trajectory, coming from another star system.
The Sun exerts gravitational force capable of influencing objects up to 3.8 light years away. In the case of the 3I/Atlas, the initial speed exceeds that necessary for escape. The interaction only results in a deviation from the route, similar to a gravitational slingshot.
- 3I/Atlas speed: 57 km/s;
- Comparison with ‘Oumuamua: 26 km/s;
- Comparison with Borisov: 33 km/s.
3I/ATLAS Is Not Behind the Sun.
Astronomers were told the interstellar object would disappear behind the Sun during its Oct 29 perihelion. But new observations show that’s not true.On Oct 25, the team recorded 3I/ATLAS visible beside the Sun — not hidden.
Position: RA 13h 38m… pic.twitter.com/cqRoIn8PGT— 3I/ATLAS (@3IAtlas_Anomaly) October 28, 2025
Origin of interstellar objects
Bodies like 3I/Atlas probably orbited distant stars before being ejected. Events such as gravitational interactions or stellar explosions cause the expulsion. These objects travel through interstellar space for millions of years.
Detection occurs when they cross the Solar System. Telescopes identify trajectories not linked to the Sun. 3I/Atlas represents the third confirmed after ‘Oumuamua and Borisov.
Acceleration observed in ‘Oumuamua
‘Oumuamua exhibited unexpected acceleration as it passed the Sun in 2017. The main explanation involves degassing hydrogen trapped inside. Solar heat releases the gas, generating natural propulsion.
Another hypothesis suggests extraterrestrial technology, such as a light candle. This idea, defended by Avi Loeb, remains without concrete evidence. The scientific community prioritizes natural mechanisms.
Hypothetical collision effects
A direct collision with the Sun would accelerate 3I/Atlas to more than 600 km/s. The temperature would rise to millions of degrees before impact. The object would completely evaporate due to the solar plasma.
The Sun converts 4 million tons of mass into energy per second. Any interstellar comet would be insignificant on this scale. There would be no noticeable changes to the star or the Solar System.
Characteristics of the hyperbolic trajectory
Hyperbolic trajectories indicate speed greater than the local escape velocity. The 3I/Atlas enters and leaves the Solar System without looping. Solar gravity changes direction but not speed enough for capture.
Observations confirm that the object heads into deep space. Telescope data tracks the current path. Speed keeps the body in perpetual motion through the cosmos.
Comparisons with known comets
Cometsof the Solar System reach a maximum of tens of km/s at perihelion. Interstellar objects arrive with speeds inherited from the galactic environment. This difference highlights the external origin of the 3I/Atlas.
Studies analyze composition to identify materials from other stars. Spectroscopy reveals common elements but unique proportions. The analysis reinforces the interstellar nature.
Gravitational drift in detail
The passage through the Sun bends the trajectory of the 3I/Atlas at a specific angle. Calculations predict the point of closest approach. The interaction lasts a few weeks before the final departure.
Computer models simulate the slingshot effect. The kinetic energy of the object prevails over attraction. Observatories monitor to refine orbital data.
