An unknown object goes towards our solar system at an impressive speed. Astronomers believe that it could be an interstellar visitor, the third never observed.
Detected for the first time at the end of June by the Atlas system, this object named A11PL3Z intrigues the scientific community. His trajectory and his vitesse suggest an origin beyond our Solar systemwhich makes it an exciting subject of study for researchers.
Credit: David Rankin/Catalina Sky Survey
With an estimated size at 20 kilometers, A11PL3Z could be an asteroid or a comet. Its speed of 245,000 km/h and its trajectory make it an ideal candidate for studying objects from other stellar systems. THE observations continue to confirm its origin. The previous interstellar visitors, such as’ Oumaumua and the comet Borisov, marked the history of astronomy. A11PL3Z could join this prestigious list, offering a new opportunity to learn more about space beyond our solar system.
The approach closest to the sun is scheduled for October, followed by a passage near Mars. Scientists hope to use telescopes like the James Webb to study this object in detail, notably seeking signs of extraterrestrial technology. A justified research from, among other things, media passion around of the possible artificial origin raised by the discovery of ‘Umuamua.
Credit: David Rankin/Catalina Sky Survey
The discovery of A11PL3Z underlines the importance of sky surveillance systems as atlas. These tools make it possible to detect rapid and distant objects, opening a window on the universe beyond our neighborhood immediate.
What is an interstellar object?
An interstellar object is a celestial body that does not come from our solar system. Unlike asteroids and local comets, these cosmic travelers roam the space between the stars.
Their discovery is relatively recent, with ‘Oumuamua in 2017 as the first confirmed example. These objects offer a unique opportunity to study the material from other stellar systems.
Their speed and trajectory are the main indicators of their interstellar origin. Unlike objects in the solar system, they are not linked gravitational to the sun.
The study of these visitors allows scientists to better understand the diversity of materials and processes in our galaxy.
How do astronomers track these objects?
The detection of interstellar objects is based on automated telescopes which scrutinize the sky permanently. These systems, like Atlas, are able to identify unusual movements.
Once detected, the object is followed by several observatories to confirm its trajectory. Precise calculations make it possible to determine if it comes from the outside of the solar system.
Technological progress, such as the Vera C. Rubin telescope, improve our chances of detecting these rare objects. These tools also make it possible to study their physical properties in detail.
