Geophysicist Stefan Burns reports that the comet may represent a previously unobserved class of celestial bodies, with complex structures in its coma and interactions unlike any seen in typical comets or asteroids.

In a stunning twist in the saga of the interstellar object known as 3I/ATLAS, new data reveals that this enigmatic celestial body is not only growing in size but is also exhibiting a striking green glow as it hurtles through our solar system.

Geophysicist Stefan Burns, who has been closely monitoring the comet’s journey, stated, “3I/ATLAS is continuing to morph in front of us as it travels closer to the sun, and it’s unlike anything we’ve seen before.”

As 3I/ATLAS nears its perihelion—the point in its orbit where it comes closest to the sun—expected around October 29, the scientific community is grappling with how to classify this peculiar object.

Traditionally categorized as a comet, 3I/ATLAS defies conventional definitions with its bizarre characteristics, including an unusually high velocity of approximately 60 kilometers per second and a unique composition that includes a significant amount of carbon dioxide.

“Most people refer to it as a comet, but I’m hesitant to use that label,” Burns remarked.

“We still don’t fully understand what it is. The new data suggests it might represent a previously unobserved class of small planetary bodies, which is quite different from our typical understanding of comets and asteroids.”

The latest findings, derived from polarization measurements taken between July and August, indicate that 3I/ATLAS is not only expanding its coma—a cloud of gas, dust, and plasma surrounding it—but also developing complex structures within that coma.

“It’s already half the size of the sun and growing larger every day,” Burns noted, emphasizing the sheer scale of this interstellar visitor.

Adding to the intrigue, recent imagery captured during a lunar eclipse in Namibia shows the comet glowing a vivid green. This is particularly puzzling because, according to previous observations, 3I/ATLAS lacked the necessary elements typically associated with such a glow.

“If it’s glowing green, how is it doing so?” Burns questioned, noting that the green hue is usually attributed to diatomic carbon, which fluoresces when energized by sunlight. “This might suggest some unfamiliar chemistry at play.”

Burns explained that 3I/ATLAS exhibits a dark reddish color, common among trans-Neptunian objects, likely due to exposure to the harsh interstellar environment.

The juxtaposition of its reddish tone with the unexpected green glow raises questions about the object’s composition and the processes occurring as it approaches the sun.

The polarization data collected shows striking differences in light reflectance, indicating a complex and evolving structure. “This polarization is not homogeneous; it has clear structures,” Burns elaborated.

“We’re seeing distinct layers within the coma, suggesting that the interactions between light and the materials surrounding 3I/ATLAS are more complex than we initially thought.”

As the comet continues on its trajectory, it is currently passing through the asteroid belt and is expected to make its closest approach to Mars on October 3.

“We have a reconnaissance probe orbiting Mars that will be able to take high-resolution photos of 3I/ATLAS,” Burns said, eager to uncover more about the object’s nucleus, which remains largely unknown.

“The size estimates vary widely, ranging from 0.2 kilometers to 50 kilometers in diameter. We need better data to pin that down.”

The trajectory of 3I/ATLAS poses potential risks as it approaches the inner solar system. “With its high speed and large size, it could be catastrophic if it were to collide with Earth or any other planet,” Burns warned.

“That’s why Earth is currently on the opposite side of the sun during this period of close approach. It’s a precautionary measure.”

Looking ahead, Burns anticipates heightened solar activity as 3I/ATLAS nears the sun. “October and November could see increased solar flares and other phenomena due to the interactions between this massive object and the solar environment,” he predicted.

As the scientific community continues to monitor 3I/ATLAS, the excitement surrounding its journey is palpable.

“This object is unlike anything we’ve ever seen,” Burns concluded. “It challenges our understanding of celestial mechanics and the nature of interstellar bodies. We’re just beginning to unravel its mysteries.”

With the world watching closely, the story of 3I/ATLAS is far from over. As it approaches the sun and reveals more of its secrets, astronomers and enthusiasts alike are eager to learn what this extraordinary interstellar traveler has in store.