Is Comet 3I/ATLAS Racing Through the Solar System a Threat to Earth?
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Synopsis
Discover the fascinating journey of Comet 3I/ATLAS as it speeds through our solar system. NASA has confirmed that this rare comet poses no danger to Earth, making it a thrilling subject for space enthusiasts and casual observers alike. Learn more about its discovery and trajectory!
Key Takeaways
- Comet 3I/ATLAS is racing through the solar system.
- It travels at a speed of 61 km/s.
- NASA confirms it poses no threat to Earth.
- The comet will approach the Sun around October 30.
- It will not come closer than 1.8 astronomical units to Earth.
New Delhi, Oct 4 (NationPress) The unusual Comet 3I/ATLAS, racing through the solar system at a speed of 61 kilometers per second, is deemed safe for Earth, according to NASA, the US space agency closely monitoring this celestial object.
Comet 3I/ATLAS is recognized as the third confirmed interstellar object detected from outside our solar system, following 'Oumuamua' in 2017 and 2I/Borisov in 2019.
The letter I signifies “interstellar,” indicating that this object originated from beyond our solar system. The number 3 in its name denotes its status as the third known interstellar entity.
Initially spotted by the NASA-supported ATLAS (Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System) telescope in Rio Hurtado, Chile, the comet was recorded by the Minor Planet Center on July 1, 2025.
As stated by NASA, although this rare comet travels at remarkable speeds, it poses no danger to our planet.
“Upon discovery, the interstellar comet was moving at approximately 137,000 miles per hour (about 221,000 kilometers per hour, or 61 kilometers per second), and its velocity is expected to increase as it nears the Sun,” NASA reported.
3I/ATLAS is projected to make its closest approach to the Sun around October 30, at a distance of about 210 million kilometers, just within Mars' orbit.
“Comet 3I/ATLAS poses no threat to Earth and will remain at a safe distance. The nearest it will come to our planet is roughly 1.8 astronomical units (around 170 million miles, or 270 million kilometers),” NASA confirmed.
The agency is tracking the comet using various space telescopes, including Hubble, Webb, and SPHEREx, ensuring that there is no risk of this interstellar object colliding with Earth.
“While the comet's path brings it into the inner solar system, it will not approach Earth closely. Throughout its journey, Comet 3I/ATLAS will not come nearer than 1.8 astronomical units (about 170 million miles or 270 million kilometers) to our planet,” it added.
The comet is set to travel behind the Sun by late October and will pass Jupiter in March 2026, continuing its path out of the solar system.
Point of View
I find the arrival of Comet 3I/ATLAS an exciting event in the realm of astronomy. While concerns about celestial threats are valid, NASA's assurance of safety empowers the public to appreciate the wonder of space exploration without fear.
NationPress
04/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Comet 3I/ATLAS?
Comet 3I/ATLAS is an interstellar comet traveling through our solar system, discovered by the ATLAS survey telescope.
Does Comet 3I/ATLAS pose a threat to Earth?
No, NASA confirms that Comet 3I/ATLAS poses no threat to Earth and will remain at a safe distance.
How fast is Comet 3I/ATLAS traveling?
Comet 3I/ATLAS is traveling at about 137,000 miles per hour, which is approximately 61 kilometers per second.
When will Comet 3I/ATLAS be closest to the Sun?
It is expected to reach its closest point to the Sun around October 30.
What telescopes are tracking Comet 3I/ATLAS?
NASA is tracking the comet using Hubble, Webb, and SPHEREx space telescopes.
