The European Space Agency (ESA) is closely tracking Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS as it continues its remarkable journey through our solar system. This unique visitor from beyond will be monitored by specialized spacecraft involved in both Jupiter and Mars missions. Significantly, 3I/ATLAS is only the third interstellar object ever discovered navigating our cosmic neighborhood. Astronomers anticipate that ground-based telescopes will also have a chance to observe it as it makes its closest approach to the Sun.
Understanding the Monitoring of 3I/ATLAS
According to a statement from the ESA, 3I/ATLAS was first identified in Chile in 2025. It follows the previously discovered interstellar objects Oumuamua and 2I/Borisov, making it the third of its kind. Between October 1st and 7th, two Mars orbiters – Mars Express and the ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter – will actively monitor the comet. During this period, the comet and the spacecraft will be at their closest, approximately 30 million kilometers apart.
Following this, around November 1st, the Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer (JUICE) will begin its own mission to track 3I/ATLAS as it reaches its closest point to the Sun. This particular phase is critical because the Sun’s intense heat is expected to trigger the comet’s most active period, causing its icy components to vaporize rapidly.
Significance of Tracking 3I/ATLAS
By monitoring 3I/ATLAS closely during its solar approach, scientists hope to uncover its precise chemical composition and observe its activity at maximum intensity. This presents an invaluable opportunity for astronomers to compare its characteristics with those of other known comets.
Should its chemistry align with comets from our own solar system, it could suggest that planetary systems share common fundamental building blocks. Conversely, if its composition proves unique, it might offer intriguing insights into exotic ingredients originating from entirely different star systems.