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.
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).
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.
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.