3I/ATLAS, a rare interstellar comet, may predate the Sun. (Image: NASA)
Science
M
Moneycontrol05-01-2026, 12:34

Ancient Comet 3I/ATLAS: Universe's Oldest Visitor?

  • Interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS, potentially 8-14 billion years old, could be older than our Sun and the universe's oldest visitor.
  • It's only the third confirmed interstellar object, offering a rare glimpse into primordial matter from the universe's early days.
  • Unusual wobbling jet streams and distinctive chemical markers suggest a unique formation history for 3I/ATLAS.
  • Its survival for eons in interstellar space makes it a natural time capsule, preserving chemical fingerprints from early cosmic history.
  • Scientists are studying 3I/ATLAS to understand early star formation, refine cosmic chemistry, and challenge assumptions about cosmic objects.

Why It Matters: 3I/ATLAS offers an unprecedented look into the universe's ancient past, potentially rewriting cosmic history.

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