Interstellar comet swinging past Mars as a fleet of spacecraft looks on - AP News

Published: Thursday, October 2, 2025 at 1:19 pm

Interstellar Comet to Buzz Mars, Observed by Spacecraft

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A comet originating from outside our solar system is set to make a close approach to Mars on Friday, offering a unique opportunity for scientists to study an interstellar object. The comet, designated 3I/Atlas, will pass within 18 million miles of the red planet, marking its closest encounter during its journey through the inner solar system. The comet is traveling at an impressive speed of 193,000 mph.

Multiple spacecraft are poised to observe the comet. The European Space Agency (ESA) has two satellites orbiting Mars that are already capturing images. NASA's satellite and rovers on Mars are also prepared to contribute to the observations.

The comet was discovered in July and poses no danger to Earth or any other planets in our solar system. It will reach its closest point to the sun at the end of October. The ESA's Juice spacecraft, currently en route to Jupiter and its icy moons, will also monitor the comet throughout November. In December, the comet will make its closest approach to Earth, passing within 167 million miles.

Based on observations from the Hubble Space Telescope, the comet's nucleus is estimated to be no more than 3.5 miles across. NASA suggests it could be as small as 1,444 feet.

BNN's Perspective: The ongoing observation of interstellar objects like this comet provides invaluable data for understanding the formation and evolution of planetary systems beyond our own. The coordinated efforts of multiple space agencies highlight the collaborative nature of scientific exploration and the shared interest in expanding our knowledge of the cosmos.

Keywords: interstellar comet, Mars, spacecraft, ESA, NASA, 3I/Atlas, space exploration, astronomy, solar system, comet observation

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