NASA will hold a live news conference on Wednesday, November 19, at 3 p.m. EST to unveil unprecedented images of the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS. The agency will share observations gathered over the past month from telescopes and spacecraft, providing the clearest view yet of this rare celestial visitor.
A Comet’s Rare Journey
Comet 3I/ATLAS is only the third confirmed interstellar comet to enter our solar system. Its journey is remarkable because it originates from outside our planetary neighborhood, offering a glimpse into the composition and dynamics of other star systems. The comet made its closest approach to the Sun on October 29, becoming significantly brighter as its icy surface vaporized.
Delayed Release Due to Government Shutdown
The release of these images was delayed due to the recent U.S. government shutdown (October 1 to November 12). The furlough of NASA personnel prevented public communication during a critical period when the comet passed major milestones, including a close approach to Mars on October 3. This timing meant valuable observations remained unseen until now.
Mars Flyby and Close Approach
The comet came within 19 million miles (30 million kilometers) of Mars, offering a unique opportunity for observation by spacecraft stationed there. While distant, this was the closest encounter 3I/ATLAS will have with any planet on its current trajectory. Earth will not receive a comparable view, as the comet will pass within 170 million miles (270 million kilometers) on December 19.
ESA Observations and Context
The European Space Agency (ESA) captured early images using its ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter and Mars Express. These observations, while limited by the spacecraft’s primary mission, confirmed the presence of a coma—the cloud of gas surrounding the comet—and helped refine its trajectory. ESA data, combined with Earth-based telescope observations, narrowed down the comet’s path through our solar system.
What to Expect from NASA
NASA will share images taken by the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter’s HiRISE camera, capturing the comet during and after its Mars flyby. The agency will also present observations from other telescopes, offering a comprehensive view of 3I/ATLAS. The live stream will be available on NASA’s website, YouTube, and Amazon Prime.
Public Engagement
Members of the public can submit questions using the hashtag #AskNASA on social media, with some potentially answered live during the conference.
This release of images is significant because 3I/ATLAS provides a rare opportunity to study an object originating from another star system. The comet’s composition and behavior could offer insights into the formation and evolution of planetary systems beyond our own
