What is Comet 3I/Atlas and how to track it

The interstellar comet 3I/Atlas has reached its perihelion, the point where it comes closest to the Sun. After this, it will begin moving away from the solar system at an incredible speed of around 210,000 kilometers per hour, eventually leaving our solar system forever by January 2026.

A Rare Visitor from Beyond Our Solar System

Astronomers believe 3I/Atlas came from outside our solar system, based on its unique composition and age. This makes it a very special object for scientists, offering a rare chance to study material from distant stars. Contrary to some rumors, no planetary defense system was activated, as the comet poses no threat to Earth.

Safe Distance from Earth

On December 19, 3I/Atlas will pass about 270 million kilometers from Earth — roughly 700 times farther than the Moon. Because of this distance, it won’t be visible to the naked eye. However, astronomers plan to use powerful telescopes to study its structure and behavior for a few days during this period.

Tracking 3I/Atlas in Real Time

Even though you can’t see it from Earth, you can still track the comet’s path online.

• Websites like The Sky Live and 3Iatlaslive provide real-time updates about the comet’s position and movement using NASA data.

• NASA’s Eyes on the Solar System simulator also lets anyone watch the comet’s journey through space for free.

• Several YouTube channels are streaming the comet’s movement live using data from NASA’s simulation tools.

For now, scientists say the comet is behaving steadily, and everything indicates it will continue its calm journey through the solar system before disappearing into deep space forever.

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