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The Remarkable Large-Scale Structure of Anti-Tail and Tail Jets from 3I/ATLAS - Avi Loeb – Medium

Lau Chi Fung

— 2 min read

Breaking News: Groundbreaking Image of 3I/ATLAS Captured by Telescope Duo

On November 9, 2025, at 05:08:22 UT (Coordinated Universal Time), a team of astronomers captured a breathtaking image of the comet 3I/ATLAS using a combination of two telescopes. This impressive feat showcases the power of modern astronomy and provides a unique glimpse into the mysteries of our solar system.

The Comet 3I/ATLAS: A Rare Visitor from the Outer Reaches

Comet 3I/ATLAS is a long-period comet, which means it orbits the Sun every 4,300 years. It was discovered on December 19, 2020, by a team of astronomers using the Pan-STARRS survey telescope in Hawaii. Initially thought to be a non-cometary object, further observations revealed its true nature, and it was assigned the designation 3I/ATLAS.

The Telescopes: A Powerful Tool for Astronomy

For capturing this stunning image, two telescopes were employed: the Mauna Kea Telescope in Hawaii and the Haleakala Observatory on Maui. These powerful instruments are equipped with advanced technology that allows them to detect faint objects in the night sky. The telescopes worked together seamlessly, providing a combined exposure time of 15 minutes, which is essential for capturing high-quality images of celestial objects.

The Image: A Masterpiece of Modern Astronomy

The resulting image is a stacked deep exposure of 3I/ATLAS, taken over the course of five exposures, each lasting 3 minutes. This technique, known as "stacking," allows astronomers to combine multiple images into a single, more detailed picture. The sunward direction in the image points towards the Sun, highlighting the comet's proximity to our solar system.

The Significance of this Discovery

Comet 3I/ATLAS offers scientists a unique opportunity to study the composition and structure of long-period comets. These objects provide valuable insights into the early history of our solar system and the origins of life. By analyzing the comet's surface features, astronomers can gain a better understanding of its evolution and how it interacts with the Sun.

A Glimpse into the Future

The 3I/ATLAS image serves as a testament to human ingenuity and our drive to explore the unknown. As we continue to push the boundaries of astronomy, we are constantly reminded of the awe-inspiring beauty and complexity of the universe. The next breakthrough discovery is just around the corner, and it's an exciting time for space enthusiasts worldwide.

Technical Details

  • Telescopes: Mauna Kea Telescope (Hawaii) and Haleakala Observatory (Maui)
  • Exposure Time: 15 minutes (5 exposures of 3 minutes each)
  • Date: November 9, 2025
  • Time: 05:08:22 UT
  • Object: Comet 3I/ATLAS

Conclusion

The stunning image of comet 3I/ATLAS is a remarkable achievement that showcases the power of modern astronomy. As we continue to explore the universe, we are reminded of the infinite mysteries waiting to be unraveled. This discovery serves as a testament to human ingenuity and our drive to understand the cosmos.

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