On July 1st, 2025, NASA’s Atlas survey telescope in Chile first discovered the strange sighting of a comet. The comet also known as C/2025 N1, previously termed A11pl3Z, was found to be interstellar. The comet followed an unchained route past the Sun, and even passed the Earth at a distance of 1.8 astronomical units (AU). As a huge breakthrough in scientific discovery, 3I Atlas is the third recorded interstellar object to enter our solar system.
A question asked by many, states if the comet holds any secrets, such as a connection with any forms of extraterrestrial life. Some Harvard students believe this theory is convincing, due to the comet’s high CO2 levels, nickel concentration, and odd trajectory. Though many people disprove this theory; demonstrating that CO2 and nickel concentration is too high. Though due to our small technology, we will never know for sure.
It is certain that the interstellar comet itself will permanently leave the Solar System, but its impact on space discovery will stay.
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