Mysterious Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS Shows Unusual Acceleration and Color Change Puzzling Scientists

Nov 10, 2025 03:01 pm CST

Scientists worldwide are studying 3I/ATLAS, the third known interstellar visitor to our solar system, which has exhibited puzzling behaviors including unexpected acceleration, a shift to blue coloration, and the disappearance of its tail. Discovered in July by a Chilean telescope, the comet will make its closest approach to Earth in December at a safe distance of 269 million kilometers, with NASA and ESA continuing to track its journey toward Jupiter through 2026.