Comets

A comet from beyond our solar system shows dramatically higher levels of deuterium-rich water than any object seen locally. The findings suggest it formed under much colder conditions than those in our own planetary neighborhood. Researchers used observations from two major telescopes to make the measurements.

13 Mwezi wa nne, 2026 Imeripotiwa na AI

Astronomers have detected Comet 41P/Tuttle-Giacobini-Kresák reversing its rotation direction, marking the first rapid such change observed in a celestial body. The 1-kilometer-wide comet slowed from a 20-hour spin in March 2017 to 46-60 hours two months later, then accelerated to about 14 hours by December. Researchers suggest outgassing from sublimating ice caused the reversal.

The interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS, recently passing its closest point to the sun, shows unusually high levels of carbon dioxide that could stem from billions of years of cosmic ray exposure. This alteration might prevent scientists from tracing its home star system. Upcoming observations could reveal more pristine material beneath its surface.

20 Mwezi wa kumi, 2025 Imeripotiwa na AI

For the first time, astronomers are observing a ring system forming in real time around the comet-like object Chiron. This distant body, orbiting between Saturn and Uranus, shows changing rings with each observation. The discovery could reveal how such systems develop in the outer solar system.