Interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS makes its closest approach to Earth tonight: When, where and how to watch
हिंदी में सुनें
Listen to this article in Hindi
Interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS makes its closest approach to Earth on December 19. Learn when, where, and how to view this rare celestial event.
Comet 3I/ATLAS, an interstellar visitor that has captured the attention of astronomers, will make its closest approach to Earth today, Friday, December 19. Since its discovery on July 1 by the NASA-funded ATLAS telescope network in Chile, this comet has been closely monitored as one of the most unique objects to pass near our planet.
This comet is only the third confirmed interstellar object to journey through our solar system. The others were 1I/ʻOumuamua, spotted in 2017, and 2I/Borisov, in 2019. The comet's trajectory indicates that it originated far beyond our Sun, and it is expected to eventually leave our solar system permanently.
When to See It:
According to calculations by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, 3I/ATLAS will be at its closest point to Earth at 1 AM EST (0600 GMT) on December 19. At that time, it will be approximately 1.8 astronomical units away, which translates to about 168 million miles (270 million kilometers).
Is Earth in Danger?
NASA has confirmed that there is absolutely no risk to Earth or any other planet from this comet. Even at its closest, it will remain at a safe distance of roughly 170 million miles away.
Why This Flyby Is Important:
Despite the distance, the comet's visit offers a valuable scientific opportunity. As 3I/ATLAS travels through the inner solar system, the Sun's heat causes its icy core to release gases and dust. By studying this material, scientists can gain insights into the composition of matter from another star system. The observations taken during this closest approach are especially crucial, allowing researchers to study how interstellar comets react when exposed to sunlight. In recent weeks, observatories, including the Hubble Space Telescope and the JUICE Jupiter probe, have been observing the comet as it travels through the inner solar system.
How to View It:
The comet will not be visible without equipment. Those using a telescope with an aperture of at least 30 centimeters may have a chance to see it. Observers should look toward the east to northeast during the early pre-dawn hours. The comet will be located just below Regulus, which is the brightest star in the constellation Leo. Given the comet’s faintness and rapid movement, consulting with local observatories or attending organized skywatching events is recommended.
