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.
- ESA's ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO) and Mars Express spacecraft tracked the comet between October 1 and 7.
- The comet was about 30 million km away during its closest approach to Mars on October 3.
This rare event also foreshadows future missions like the Comet Interceptor, designed to chase such elusive visitors.
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Author's summary: ESA's Mars orbiters observe interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS.