Comet 3I/ATLAS has been transformed by billions of years of space radiation, James Webb Space Telescope observations reveal

Live ScienceFriday, October 31, 2025 at 8:54:04 PM
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Comet 3I/ATLAS has been transformed by billions of years of space radiation, James Webb Space Telescope observations reveal
Recent observations from the James Webb Space Telescope have revealed that the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS has undergone significant transformation due to billions of years of exposure to space radiation. This thick irradiated crust indicates that the comet no longer resembles its original home star system, providing valuable insights into the effects of cosmic environments on celestial bodies. Understanding these changes is crucial for astronomers as it helps them learn more about the history and evolution of comets and their role in the universe.
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