What's Happening?
The Virtual Telescope Project is hosting a livestream on November 16 to showcase interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS as it moves away from the sun. Discovered on July 1, 3I/ATLAS is the third interstellar object confirmed to visit our solar system. The comet made
its closest approach to the sun on October 30, known as perihelion, and is now visible rising above the eastern horizon in the constellation Virgo. The livestream will feature views captured by robotic telescopes in Manciano, Italy, highlighting the comet's glowing central coma and ion tail. With a magnitude of +10.9, the comet is too dim for the naked eye but can be observed with a small telescope.
Why It's Important?
The observation of interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS provides valuable insights into objects originating outside our solar system. Studying such comets helps astronomers understand the composition and behavior of interstellar objects, contributing to knowledge about the universe beyond our solar system. The livestream offers an opportunity for the public to engage with astronomy and witness a rare celestial event. It also underscores the capabilities of modern telescopic technology in capturing and sharing astronomical phenomena, fostering interest and education in space exploration.
