An unknown object is heading toward our Solar System at an impressive speed. Astronomers believe it could be an interstellar visitor, only the third ever observed.
First detected in late June by the ATLAS system, this object named A11pl3Z has intrigued the scientific community. Its trajectory and speed suggest an origin beyond our Solar System, making it an exciting subject of study for researchers.
The potentially interstellar object A11pl3Z approaching the Sun at breakneck speed.
Credit: David Rankin/Catalina Sky Survey
With an estimated size of 12 miles (20 km), A11pl3Z could be an asteroid or comet. Its speed of 152,000 mph (245,000 km/h) and trajectory make it an ideal candidate for studying objects from other star systems. Observations continue to confirm its origin.
Previous interstellar visitors like 'Oumuamua and comet Borisov made astronomical history. A11pl3Z could join this prestigious list, offering a new opportunity to learn about space beyond our Solar System.
The closest approach to the Sun is expected in October, followed by a pass near Mars. Scientists hope to use telescopes like James Webb to study this object in detail, particularly looking for signs of extraterrestrial technology. A justified search given, among other reasons, the media frenzy around the potential artificial origin raised by 'Oumuamua's discovery.
The projected trajectory of A11pl3Z through the Solar System.
Credit: David Rankin/Catalina Sky Survey
The discovery of A11pl3Z highlights the importance of sky monitoring systems like ATLAS. These tools allow detection of fast-moving, distant objects, opening a window to the Universe beyond our immediate neighborhood.
What is an interstellar object?
An interstellar object is a celestial body that doesn't originate from our Solar System. Unlike local asteroids and comets, these cosmic travelers journey through interstellar space.
Their discovery is relatively recent, with 'Oumuamua in 2017 as the first confirmed example. These objects offer a unique opportunity to study matter from other star systems.
Their speed and trajectory are the main indicators of interstellar origin. Unlike Solar System objects, they aren't gravitationally bound to the Sun.
Studying these visitors helps scientists better understand the diversity of materials and processes in our galaxy.
How do astronomers track these objects?
Detecting interstellar objects relies on automated telescopes constantly scanning the sky. Systems like ATLAS can spot unusual movements.
Once detected, the object is tracked by multiple observatories to confirm its trajectory. Precise calculations determine if it comes from outside the Solar System.
Technological advances like the Vera C. Rubin telescope improve our chances of detecting these rare objects. These tools also allow detailed study of their physical properties.