What is the story about?
What's Happening?
Interstellar comet 3I/Atlas, discovered in July 2025, is making a close approach to Mars, allowing spacecraft to study it. The comet, only the third known interstellar object, travels at 219,000 km/h and will be observed by Mars orbiters like Mars Express and ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter. NASA's Perseverance and Curiosity rovers, along with the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, will also attempt observations. ESA's JUICE mission will study the comet after it reaches perihelion, providing valuable data on its composition.
Why It's Important?
3I/Atlas offers a rare opportunity to study an interstellar object, potentially revealing insights into the composition of comets from other star systems. Understanding its makeup could inform theories about planetary formation and the presence of exotic chemicals in the universe. The comet's study may impact scientific research and space exploration strategies, enhancing knowledge of interstellar phenomena.
What's Next?
Following its Mars flyby, 3I/Atlas will be observed by ESA's JUICE mission as it approaches the Sun. The comet's perihelion will allow detailed analysis of its gas and dust composition, providing a chemical fingerprint. Observations will continue as the comet moves past Jupiter, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of interstellar objects.
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