The Third Interstellar Object Ever Seen in Our Solar System
A potential interstellar object has been observed traversing our solar system, sparking excitement among astronomers worldwide. Dubbed A11pl3Z, this object represents only the third interstellar visitor ever detected. The first, asteroid ‘Oumuamua, was discovered in 2017, followed by comet Borisov in 2019.
Initial sightings of A11pl3Z were made by NASA’s Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS), with additional observations from amateur astronomers at the Deep Random Survey in Chile. Estimated to be approximately 20 kilometres in diameter, A11pl3Z is currently traveling at a speed of 66 kilometres per second, with its closest approach to the sun expected in October. This close encounter will provide a unique opportunity for scientists to study this interstellar object.
While the fleeting nature of interstellar objects presents challenges for in-depth observation, astronomers are eager to leverage existing telescopes to gather as much data as possible. The European Space Agency’s Comet Interceptor mission, set to launch in 2029, may offer future opportunities to intercept and study such objects.
As observations of A11pl3Z continue to accumulate, astronomers are preparing to refine its trajectory and confirm its interstellar origin. With over 100 observations logged so far, the Minor Planet Center is expected to officially classify A11pl3Z as an interstellar object in the coming days.
