A prominent plasma physicist has sparked significant discussion within the astronomical community by asserting that the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS is visible, countering claims that it is hidden behind the Sun. In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), Dr. John Brandenburg stated, “Object 3I ATLAS had an apparent jet exhaust towards the Sun in September, producing a braking effect. This has now apparently reversed.”
This assertion contradicts earlier reports suggesting that the interstellar traveler was effectively obscured from view as it passed behind the Sun. A prior statement indicated that “3I/ATLAS is behind the Sun from Earth … it can”t be seen in Earth”s sky” at this time. However, Dr. Brandenburg”s comments suggest that the comet may not be entirely concealed and that its behavior merits further examination.
The comet, classified as 3I/ATLAS, was discovered by the ATLAS survey and is noted as the third known interstellar object. An article titled “Spying Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS Near Perihelion” highlights the object”s intriguing trajectory, composition, and unusual activity, which has captured significant scientific attention. Notably, it appears to have exhibited activity earlier than predicted, with signs of volatile sublimation occurring at distances greater than what is typically observed in Solar System comets. Additionally, it displays a peculiar sunward “anti-tail” plume, interpreted by some observers as material being expelled toward the Sun, a behavior that is atypical for comets.
3I/ATLAS is expected to reach its perihelion, or closest approach to the Sun, around October 29, 2025, at an approximate distance of 1.36 AU from the Sun. The suggestion that 3I/ATLAS might be visible has led to a division among astronomers and enthusiasts. Some maintain that the object remains lost in solar glare, overwhelmed by the Sun”s brightness. In contrast, Brandenburg”s observations imply that the comet”s unusual jet activity or plasma interactions might have made it sufficiently bright to be detected, at least through specialized instruments.
If validated, this could indicate that 3I/ATLAS is behaving in unexpected ways, potentially releasing more dust and gas than initially anticipated or even generating its own electromagnetic effects that could be observed with space-based telescopes. Such phenomena would mark it as the first interstellar comet viewed under near-solar conditions in real time, enhancing its already remarkable standing as the third confirmed object from beyond the Solar System.
Brandenburg”s assertion has not only raised questions regarding visibility but also how interstellar objects engage with solar radiation and magnetic fields. His expertise in plasma physics lends credence to his claim that the object”s “apparent jet exhaust” may have influenced its trajectory and rendered it temporarily more reflective or detectable. Should 3I/ATLAS”s brightness have indeed increased due to these jets, it could suggest that its surface or composition contains materials particularly sensitive to solar heat, leading to powerful bursts of energy that could alter its path slightly.
Researchers tracking its movement will be closely monitoring new data from solar-tracking instruments to see if these dynamics can be confirmed. As the object moves away from the Sun”s glare in the coming weeks, it should become increasingly observable with both ground-based and orbital telescopes. This observation window will be crucial for assessing whether Brandenburg”s visibility claims withstand scientific examination. If imaging or spectroscopic analysis confirms that the interstellar object remained visible even during its conjunction with the Sun, it could transform the approach astronomers take in studying near-solar phenomena and interstellar visitors.
For now, the intrigue lies in the uncertainty surrounding 3I/ATLAS. Whether it is seen through the Sun”s haze or emerging from it, this cosmic wanderer continues to challenge conventional expectations. Coupled with Brandenburg”s provocative insights, its extraordinary behavior secures its position at the forefront of one of the most captivating debates in contemporary astronomy.
