Unexpected NASA observation during flyby
3I/ATLAS interstellar comet or alien spacecraft? The images came from Europa Clipper, a spacecraft launched to study Jupiter’s moon Europa. NASA said the spacecraft was not tracking the comet intentionally. It happened to be in the correct position while both objects moved through the solar system.
Europa Clipper used its Europa Ultraviolet Spectrograph to record the comet. The observation lasted seven hours on 6 November. At that time, the spacecraft was about 102 million miles away from the comet. Scientists said this coincidence allowed them to test instruments designed for another mission.
Closest approach to Earth explained
3I/ATLAS interstellar comet or alien spacecraft? The comet is traveling at about 153,000 miles per hour. It reaches its closest approach to Earth overnight between 18 and 19 December. At its nearest point, the comet remains about 168 million miles away. This equals around 270 million kilometers.
NASA confirmed the distance means there is no risk to Earth. The comet is moving through the inner solar system before continuing toward Jupiter.
Can people see the comet today?
3I/ATLAS interstellar comet or alien spacecraft? Amateur astronomers can try to observe the comet using powerful backyard telescopes. NASA said the object will appear as a faint and fast-moving green dot. It is not visible to the naked eye.
Observers under dark skies may need telescopes with an aperture of at least eight inches. Astrophotographers have reported limited visible detail in recent images.
Livestream viewing for skywatchers
3I/ATLAS interstellar comet or alien spacecraft? People can also watch the comet online. The Virtual Telescope Project is hosting a free livestream starting at 11 p.m. EST on December 18. This equals 0400 GMT on December 19.
The livestream will show real-time telescope views from robotic observatories in Manciano, Italy, weather permitting. The closest approach occurs at 1 a.m. EST on December 19.
Ultraviolet images reveal hidden details
3I/ATLAS interstellar comet or alien spacecraft? The Europa Clipper image uses ultraviolet light. Human eyes cannot see ultraviolet wavelengths. Scientists processed the data by separating and stacking wavelengths. This method reveals how the comet looks beyond visible light.
Other observatories have studied 3I/ATLAS using infrared and X-ray wavelengths. These studies help scientists understand the comet’s structure and composition.
What scientists know about the comet?
3I/ATLAS interstellar comet or alien spacecraft? NASA said there is no evidence the object is artificial. It is classified as a natural interstellar comet. Scientists analyzed gases released from the comet, known as a coma.
Earlier observations show the comet contains carbon dioxide ice. It also releases diatomic carbon gas. This gas causes the green glow seen in images. The spacecraft is not searching for life in the comet.
Connection to the Europa mission
3I/ATLAS interstellar comet or alien spacecraft? Both the comet and Europa Clipper are heading toward Jupiter. The comet will pass closest to Jupiter in March 2026. Europa Clipper will arrive later in April 2030.
Once at Jupiter, Clipper will study Europa. Scientists believe a liquid water ocean may exist beneath Europa’s icy surface. The mission will study the surface, atmosphere, and possible geysers.
Why 3I/ATLAS is important?
3I/ATLAS interstellar comet or alien spacecraft? Discovered in July 2025 by the ATLAS survey, the comet is only the third confirmed interstellar object detected. The earlier ones were 1I/‘Oumuamua in 2017 and 2I/Borisov in 2019.
Researchers say studying 3I/ATLAS may help explain how planetary systems form around other stars.
What comes next?
3I/ATLAS interstellar comet or alien spacecraft? NASA said detailed ultraviolet data from Europa Clipper are still under analysis. Results will be released after processing is complete. Scientists say the images already provide a rare look at material from outside the solar system.
FAQs
Q1: Is 3I/ATLAS an alien spacecraft?
No. NASA says 3I/ATLAS is a natural interstellar comet. Data show normal comet gases and ice. There is no evidence of artificial structure or alien technology.
Q2: How can I watch 3I/ATLAS today?
You can view 3I/ATLAS using a large telescope under dark skies or watch the Virtual Telescope Project livestream showing real-time images during the comet’s closest approach to Earth.