Scientists from ISRO-affiliated Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) have successfully observed the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS using their 1.2-meter telescope at Mount Abu Observatory, capturing detailed images and spectral data between November 12 and 15, 2025. These observations provide crucial insights into the comet’s structure, composition, and activity as it travels away from the inner Solar System after its closest approach to the Sun.

The false-colour images reveal a near-circular coma—a glowing envelope of gas and dust emitted as sunlight sublimates frozen ices on the comet’s nucleus. The Mount Abu team also captured the comet's ion tail comprised of charged particles pushed away by solar wind. Spectroscopic data detected molecular emission features of CN, C2, and C3, typical of comets from our Solar System, helping researchers identify the comet’s chemical makeup and gas production rates.

3I/ATLAS is the third known interstellar comet observed passing through our Solar System after 1I/'Oumuamua and 2I/Borisov. Discovered in July 2025 by the ATLAS survey, it follows a hyperbolic trajectory indicating origin from another star system, making this a unique scientific opportunity to study pristine ices more than 3,500 years old. NASA plans to reveal complementary images taken from Mars orbit when the comet was near perihelion, adding to global research efforts.

Also Read: Scientists’ Breakthrough Discovery on Mount Etna Could Predict Deadly Eruptions

Located near Gurushikhar at an altitude of 1,680 meters, the Mount Abu Observatory plays a vital role in planetary and astronomical research, with its 1.2-meter telescope capable of high-precision imaging and transient cosmic event monitoring. These ISRO-led observations enrich global understanding of material formation beyond the Sun and provide valuable data to characterize the behaviour of these extraordinary celestial visitors.

The detailed study of 3I/ATLAS's coma, tail, and spectral signatures by Indian scientists underscores India’s growing contribution to cutting-edge space research and strengthens international cooperation in exploring rare interstellar phenomena.

Also Read: Mark Cuban Says AI Job Seekers Should Look Beyond Big Tech and Aim for Smaller Companies