Solar System

Astronomers using the Hubble Space Telescope observed comet C/2025 K1 (ATLAS) shortly after it split into four fragments, thanks to a lucky scheduling change. The high-resolution images provide unprecedented detail on the event. Researchers noted an unexpected delay in the comet's brightening after the breakup.

20 Mwezi wa tatu, 2026 Imeripotiwa na AI

The Vera C. Rubin Observatory in Chile has detected a 710-metre-wide asteroid that rotates once every 1.9 minutes, faster than previously thought possible for its size. Named 2025 MN45, it is the quickest-spinning asteroid over 500 metres across ever observed. Astronomers say its speed suggests it is a single solid rock or even metal, not a loose rubble pile.

A fresh look at data from NASA's Cassini mission indicates that Saturn's largest moon, Titan, likely lacks a vast subsurface ocean and instead features a slushy interior with isolated pockets of liquid water. This finding challenges earlier assumptions and could reshape the search for life on icy worlds. Researchers published their results on December 17 in the journal Nature.

11 Mwezi wa kumi na mbili, 2025 Imeripotiwa na AI

A supernova explosion near the forming solar system could explain the presence of key radioactive elements that influenced Earth's water content. Researchers suggest this process occurred at a safe distance, avoiding disruption to planet formation. The mechanism implies Earth-like planets might be common around sun-like stars.