Archive · 26 Sep 2025
Sun's Activity Could Affect Interstellar Comet 3I/Atlas
Scientists are watching an interstellar comet named 3I/Atlas, which is currently speeding towards the sun.
The sun is becoming more active and is expected to release a burst of energy called a CME, which might hit the comet.
If this happens, it could knock off the comet's tail, as has happened to other comets in the past.
3I/Atlas is unusually large and heavy for a comet.
The comet will also pass near Mars, which will allow scientists to get a closer look at this interstellar visitor.
Interstellar comet 3I/Atlas is approaching the Sun.
The Sun is expected to release a CME that could collide with 3I/Atlas.
The collision may cause the comet's tail to break off.
3I/Atlas is unusually large, with a mass exceeding 33 billion tons.
The comet will pass near Mars on October 3, 2025.
- Who
- Scientists and NASA
- What
- Solar activity may affect the interstellar comet 3I/Atlas, possibly causing its tail to break off.
- When
- Predicted collision of CME with comet on September 25, 2025; Comet near Mars on October 3, 2025.
- Where
- Near the Sun and Mars
- Why
- To understand the effects of solar activity on interstellar objects.
- Object Name
- 3I/Atlas
- Mass
- Over 33 billion tons
- Diameter Estimate
- Nucleus over 5.6 kilometers
- Speed
- 60,000 km/s
- CME Collision Prediction
- September 25, 2025
- Near Mars
- October 3