NASA astronomers have discovered a third interstellar object: what is known about comet C/2025 N1.

Astronomers have discovered a new object in the Solar System. They have recorded a new object that likely arrived from the depths of interstellar space. The mysterious 3I/Atlas was detected on July 1 using the Atlas telescope at an observatory in Chile. According to preliminary estimates, it may be the third known interstellar body in history to cross the Solar System. The object is moving at a speed of 60 km/s on a hyperbolic orbit and is currently over 670 million kilometers away from the Sun. Scientists note that its trajectory indicates that 3I/Atlas is not 'local', but a true cosmic traveler. After its discovery, researchers observed cometary activity - a faint coma and a short tail. For this reason, the object has also been assigned the name C/2025 N1.

3I/Atlas - no threat to Earth

Some scientists speculate that 3I/Atlas may be up to 20 km in diameter - larger than the asteroid that once caused the extinction of the dinosaurs. However, experts reassure that the object poses no threat to Earth. 3I/Atlas will come closest to the Sun around October 30 - at a distance of 130 million kilometers. After that, it is likely to leave the Solar System.

Studying the object on its way to Earth

'Currently, it is not expected that the comet will be visible to the naked eye, but it can be seen through an amateur telescope in late 2025 - early 2026. As it is studied over the coming weeks, we will have a better understanding of how visible it will actually be,' added Jake Foster from the Royal Observatory in Greenwich.

Earlier, it was reported that in 2026 French astronaut Sophie Adenot will travel to the ISS with a menu developed by renowned chef Anne-Sophie Pic - holder of 10 Michelin stars.

Astronomers have discovered a new object in the Solar System that likely arrived from interstellar space. The mysterious object 3I/Atlas poses no threat to Earth and exhibits cometary activity. Its trajectory indicates that it is a true cosmic traveler. The object will be closer to the Sun in October, after which it is likely to leave the Solar System.