In a spectacular cosmic coincidence, during its imaging of the comet 3I/ATLAS, the Hubble Space Telescope has produced its sharpest image ever. In February, one of the world’s most powerful telescopes in Chile spotted a mysterious new celestial object. This makes it the third known interstellar visitor to come near our solar system. Currently, 3I/ATLAS is hurtling toward the rest of the solar system at an astonishing 130,000 miles per hour. That’s about 130,000 miles per hour!
Located 277 million miles from Earth when imaged on July 21, 2025, 3I/ATLAS is not a hazard to Earth. The comet’s path will take it much closer to Mars than to Earth. Unlike its immediate predecessors, it will do so while remaining at a safe distance from either planet.
Discovery and Characteristics of 3I/ATLAS
The detection of 3I/ATLAS last month was an exciting first in interstellar objects. Astronomers used some of the world’s most advanced telescopes in Chile to catch a glimpse of this icy interloper from beyond our solar system. In addition to their unique and dynamic characteristics, comets such as 3I/ATLAS teach us invaluable lessons on the formation and evolution of planetary systems.
At first, the size of 3I/ATLAS’ icy core was thought to be a few miles wide. With continued observations, this estimate has been narrowed down to no more than 3.5 miles (or about 5.6 kilometers). Understanding the size and composition of such interstellar objects is crucial for scientists as they explore the origins of comets and their potential implications for our solar system.
Hubble’s Contribution to Astronomy
As it turns 30, the Hubble Space Telescope is still an essential part of astronomical research. Perhaps most famously, it sends back breathtaking, high-definition pictures of far away planets and moons. This new 3I/ATLAS image is a powerful reminder of Hubble’s extraordinary capability to reveal breathtaking, unparalleled detail. These are characteristics that would be impossible to observe from Earth with telescopes alone.
Astronomers use these photos not just for artistic inspiration but increasingly for scientific research. The clarity and detail in Hubble’s photographs can reveal information about the object’s composition, trajectory, and potential interactions with other celestial bodies.
Safe Passage for 3I/ATLAS
Even with how close, fast, and breathtaking it is, 3I/ATLAS is certainly not a threat to Earth or Mars. As it approaches the solar system, it should trace a precisely plotted route. This carefully defined trajectory ensures that the spacecraft has a safe flyby path around both planets. This unusual situation gives scientists the opportunity to study the comet without fear of adversely affecting terrestrial life.
The ongoing observation of 3I/ATLAS will provide researchers with opportunities to gather data that could enhance our understanding of interstellar objects and their behavior as they traverse our solar system.