Interstellar Visitor Turns Ghoulish Green, With More Outbursts Expected as It Nears Earth. The cosmic wanderer known as comet 3I/ATLAS is undergoing dramatic transformations just days before its closest approach to our planet. The comet has changed to a bright green color, indicating that it is in a very active phase, according to recent images from the Gemini North observatory in Hawaii. Scientists caution that as delayed solar radiation seeps into its ancient core, this unpredictable activity could cause more eruptions.
What is Causing the Comet’s Eerie Green Color?
The comet’s new emerald glow is not a Halloween trick but a chemical reaction in space. According to NOIRLab, which operates the Gemini observatories, the color comes from diatomic carbon (C2).
When exposed to sun radiation, this molecule—which consists of two linked carbon atoms—emits a greenish glow. Other well-known comets, such as 12P/Pons-Brooks, have exhibited the same phenomena. The significant change for 3I/ATLAS is its color shift; when last observed in August, it appeared red. This evolution from red to green strongly indicates it has begun releasing new, different material as it becomes more active.
Why Are Scientists Expecting More Outbursts?
Sunlight does not warm a comet’s core immediately. This delayed heating means 3I/ATLAS may produce further gas and dust bursts in the days ahead as it moves closer to Earth, keeping its activity uncertain and under careful watch.
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What is the Mystery of the Anti-Tail?
Adding to the comet’s strange appearance is the presence of an “anti-tail.” Unlike the typical tail that streams away from the Sun, an anti-tail appears to point toward it. This rare feature is likely an optical illusion caused by our viewing perspective. It is believed to be composed of larger, heavier dust particles that appear to protrude in the opposite direction as they flatten out along the comet’s orbit. As researchers attempt to completely understand the intricate dynamics of comet dust, this perplexing shape is still being studied.
How Rare is This Interstellar Visitor?
Known as “3I,” this is just the third interstellar comet ever confirmed in our solar system, following ‘Oumuamua and 2I/Borisov. Its long trip from deep space gives scientists a rare chance to examine matter from another star system. The green outburst now being seen is scientifically important, since shifts in color and activity hint at elements present in faraway planetary systems.
Key FAQs:
Q: When will comet 3I/ATLAS be closest to Earth?
A: The comet is only a few days away from making its closest approach, yet it will stay far enough away to not endanger Earth.
Q: Can I see the green comet with the naked eye?
A: It is unlikely. Observing its color and details requires powerful professional telescopes like Gemini North.
Q: Why did it change from red to green?
A: The crimson hue most likely originated from carbon-based chemicals or other, older dust. The change to green denotes the emission of new diatomic carbon (C2) gas as a result of enhanced solar heating.
Q: What does “3I” stand for?
A: “3I” means it is the third Interstellar object discovered. “ATLAS” is the name of the survey project (Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System) that first spotted it in July.
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