Observation of Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS
ESA's Mars orbiters have observed comet 3I/ATLAS, the third interstellar comet ever discovered, as it passed near Mars.
The comet revealed a glowing coma as it was heated by the Sun, and researchers are still studying the data to understand its makeup and origins.
Between October 1 and 7, the ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO) and Mars Express spacecraft tracked the comet's motion with their onboard cameras.
The closest approach to Mars occurred on October 3, with the comet being about 30 million km away.
This rare event also foreshadows future missions like the Comet Interceptor.
- ESA's Mars orbiters had the best view of this rare visitor.
- The Comet Interceptor is designed to chase such elusive visitors.
Author's summary: ESA's Mars orbiters observe interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS.