Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS Approaches Sun: Key Viewing Details

The interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS is set to reach its closest point to the Sun on October 29, 2025, at approximately 11:47 Universal Time (UT). During this perihelion, the comet will come within about 1.36 astronomical units of the Sun, slightly farther than Earth’s distance from the Sun. This significant cosmic event marks the comet’s journey through our solar system, with scientists eagerly anticipating its visibility in the coming weeks.

NASA has confirmed that 3I/ATLAS will pass just inside the orbit of Mars when it reaches perihelion, approximately 1.4 astronomical units or 130 million miles (210 million kilometers) from the Sun. Due to its positioning on the far side of the Sun, the comet is expected to become visible from Earth only in November 2025.

Discovery and Classification of 3I/ATLAS

3I/ATLAS was first reported to the Minor Planet Center on July 1, 2025, by the ATLAS survey telescope, which is funded by NASA and located in Rio Hurtado, Chile. Following its initial detection, astronomers traced earlier observations back to June 14, 2025, utilizing data from both ATLAS telescopes and Caltech’s Zwicky Transient Facility in California. The comet’s designation of “3I” signifies it as the third confirmed interstellar object, with its hyperbolic orbit indicating a trajectory that will not return to the Sun.

NASA’s analysis of 3I/ATLAS reveals that its trajectory clearly originates from deep interstellar space, distinguishing it from other comets that typically are part of the solar system.

No Threat to Earth

NASA has reassured the public that 3I/ATLAS poses no danger to Earth. The closest approach to our planet will be around 1.8 astronomical units, or approximately 170 million miles (270 million kilometers). The space agency emphasizes that despite its remarkable journey, the comet’s path is well outside the orbit of Earth.

As the excitement builds around the arrival of 3I/ATLAS, astronomers and space enthusiasts are preparing for its visibility next month. This event represents a rare opportunity to observe a celestial object that has traveled from beyond our solar system, underscoring the vastness and intrigue of space exploration. The public can expect more updates as the comet approaches and becomes visible in the night sky.

For those interested in witnessing this cosmic spectacle, keeping an eye on official updates from NASA and astronomical societies will provide guidance on the best viewing times and locations once the comet becomes observable.