Prof Brian Cox Reveals Fascinating Insights on Interstellar Object 3I/ATLAS Story
Professor Brian Cox recently shared his insights on the interstellar object 3I/ATLAS, currently traversing the Solar System. Discovered on July 1, 2025, by astronomers from the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS), this comet stands out due to its rapid speed and significant eccentricity.
Understanding 3I/ATLAS
The object’s eccentricity is measured between 6.1 and 6.2, confirming it as an interstellar object. It is the third of its kind ever recorded, hence the designation 3I/ATLAS, which reflects both its interstellar nature and the discovering team.
Comet Characteristics and Journey
- Confirmed as a comet due to its outgassing.
- Believed to have traveled through interstellar space for approximately 10 billion years.
- Possibly formed 7.5 billion years ago, before the Earth and Sun’s formation.
Cox highlighted the significance of this event during an interview with the BBC, noting that it represents a remarkable advancement in human understanding of the cosmos. He pointed out the incredible journey of 3I/ATLAS through the Milky Way, reinforcing the vast timescales involved.
Astronomical Observations
Despite the comet’s passage behind the Sun from our perspective, notable observations have been made. The European Space Agency (ESA) successfully captured images of 3I/ATLAS as it flew past Mars using the ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter. Additionally, the Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer (JUICE) mission is set to image the comet as it approaches Jupiter.
Scientific Community’s Reaction
The discovery of 3I/ATLAS has sparked speculation, with some suggesting it could be artificial. However, scientists, including those from NASA and SETI, maintain there is no substantial evidence to support such claims. The comet serves as a time capsule, shedding light on the early universe.
Cox contextualized this achievement within human history, reflecting on the rapid progress made in just a few centuries. He noted that, merely 400 years ago, humanity debated the Earth’s place in the cosmos. Today, we’ve reached a level of technological sophistication that allows us to photograph interstellar comets from other planets.
Future Observations and Capturing Data
While NASA’s Perseverance rover was also tasked with capturing images of 3I/ATLAS, confirmation of successful imaging is still pending. The ability to track and observe a comet from other planetary orbits marks a significant milestone for humanity in space exploration.
