Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS's Blue Shine Is Surprising Astronomers
Comet 3I/ATLAS, the third known visitor from beyond our Solar System, is brightening rapidly as it approaches perihelion, its closest point to the Sun.
Due to its position behind the Sun, ground-based observations are nearly impossible, so astronomers are using space-based observatories, including solar-monitoring satellites.
- STEREO-A
- SOHO
- GOES-19
Researchers Qicheng Zhang and Karl Battams used these satellites to capture the comet's transformation, revealing a surprising blue shine.
Related: Strange Green Glow From Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS Has Scientists Puzzled
Astronomers are surprised by the comet's rapid brightening and unusual color.
Author's summary: Astronomers surprised by Comet 3I/ATLAS's rapid brightening.