The interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS has captured the attention of space enthusiasts and astronomers alike following the emergence of new videos and images allegedly showcasing its spinning motion. These visuals, shared by amateur astronomers and influenced by observations from scientific institutions like NASA and ESA, have sparked significant interest in the comet's behaviors as it makes its unique passage through the solar system. Despite the exciting claims regarding its spinning motion, none of the observations have yet been verified by scientific agencies.
The intrigue surrounding 3I/ATLAS increased after multiple posts circulated online suggesting that the comet exhibits a rotating structure. The originality of these claims can be traced to shared footage from Ray’s Astrophotography and various social media platforms, which depicted patterns reminiscent of dust rings, detached shells, and irregular coma configurations—elements that prompted speculations about its potentially spinning state.
Furthermore, an amateur astronomer's video released at a specific time, alongside the announcement of an impending NASA live event to discuss new images of 3I/ATLAS, added to the general excitement. Despite these claims, it is crucial to acknowledge that they remain unsubstantiated by expert analysis.
3I/ATLAS is remarkable not only for its hypothesized spinning motion but also for its status as an interstellar object. Discovered on July 1, 2025, by the ATLAS survey telescope in Chile, it ranks as the third confirmed celestial body originating from outside our solar system, following 1I/ʻOumuamua and 2I/Borisov. This unique status underscores its hyperbolic trajectory, which ensures that it will not return following its current close encounter with the solar system.
As the comet makes its way past the Sun at speeds exceeding 210,000 kilometers per hour, it continues to pose no threat to Earth. NASA confirmed that the comet remains at a safe distance during its transit. Beginning its closest approach to the Sun on October 30, 2025, it has shifted back into visibility, manifesting in the early morning hours for observers equipped with suitable telescopes.
Astronomers believe that 3I/ATLAS may contain substantial amounts of carbon dioxide, an indicator of its formation in the colder regions of distant stellar systems. This unique composition presents an exceptional opportunity for scientists to study the characteristics of objects originating from beyond our solar neighborhood.
As it travels through the night sky, the ESA's JUICE spacecraft is set to observe 3I/ATLAS from November 2 to 25, providing essential data that scientists expect to analyze in 2026. Space enthusiasts eager to track the comet can utilize NASA's Eyes on the Solar System tool for further exploration.
In summary, while the narrative surrounding the spinning of 3I/ATLAS remains unverified, ongoing observations from both amateur and professional astronomers continue to unveil the comet's intriguing characteristics as it becomes increasingly visible in Earth’s skies. Those wishing to observe this fascinating celestial body will require a medium-sized telescope and a clear view towards the eastern horizon in the early hours of the morning.
FAQs: Q1: Why are people saying 3I/ATLAS is spinning? A1: Claims stem from unverified footage depicting motion patterns and dust rings associated with the comet. Q2: How can people observe 3I/ATLAS from Earth? A2: A medium-sized telescope is needed to see the comet in the morning sky from mid to late November, as it's not visible to the naked eye.