Did 3I/ATLAS Just Change It's Shape? - New Images Go Viral Shocking Social Media

Did 3I/ATLAS Just Change It’s Shape? – New Images Go Viral Shocking Social Media

The interstellar object 3I/ATLAS has recently gained attention on social media due to a series of photographs suggesting changes in its appearance from night to night. Observers have noted various forms, including a disc shape, jets, and moments when it appeared to have a bright, active coma, leading to speculation about the possibility of it shapeshifting.

Tracking of 3I/ATLAS began in July 2025, when it was identified by the ATLAS survey telescope network. Its hyperbolic trajectory indicates that it originated outside the Solar System, making it the third confirmed interstellar visitor, following 1I/’Oumuamua and 2I/Borisov.

Amateur astrophotographers have documented the comet’s variations, leading to theories that its changing appearance could be evidence of non-normal comet behavior. However, scientists emphasize that such variations are consistent with typical comet behavior influenced by gas and dust emissions, as well as viewing conditions from Earth.

Recent observations from the James Webb Space Telescope indicate that the comet’s coma is composed mostly of carbon dioxide, water vapor, and dust. These emissions can change based on the comet’s proximity to the Sun.

Scientific consensus suggests that what observers interpret as shape-changing behaviors are actually results of varying viewing angles and outgassing phenomena, not evidence of a shapeshifting entity.

  • Why it matters: Understanding the behavior of comets like 3I/ATLAS can provide insight into the dynamics of interstellar objects, shaping future astronomical research.
  • Comprehending natural cometary behavior helps counter misinformation, fostering informed public discourse about celestial events.
  • The latest: Infrared observations confirm that 3I/ATLAS shows changes in brightness and appearance predominantly due to natural gaseous emissions, not unusual phenomena.

Source: https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/did-3i-atlas-just-change-its-shape-new-images-go-viral-shocking-social-media-1762129

Source: https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/did-3i-atlas-just-change-its-shape-new-images-go-viral-shocking-social-media-1762129

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