If this hypothesis is confirmed, scientists will be forced to reconsider their perceptions of how these celestial bodies were formed.

Observations of the comet were made between July and November 2025 as it made its rapid approach to the Sun, providing a unique opportunity to study this celestial body that originated near another star. The comet is distinguished because it has remained far from the stars throughout its history, without being exposed to heat and radiation, thus becoming a sample of ancient matter that is billions of years old.

As it approached the Sun to a distance of about 2.5 astronomical units, the comet recorded a sharp and prolonged increase in brightness, different from the usual flares resulting from gas explosions. Scientists believe that this is related to the melting of ice on its surface, and they assume that the reason is the presence of rare ice volcanoes, as most comets are covered with a layer of dust that protects their surface from sunlight, while comet 3I/ATLAS lacks this protection, which allows the ice to melt and release water.

Analysis of the spectrum of light reflected from the comet’s surface showed a similarity to rare meteorites known as carbonaceous chondrites, which contain large amounts of iron and nickel. Scientists believe the minerals present enhance chemical reactions as the ice melts, causing additional gas emissions and keeping cryovolcanoes active.

Source: Naukatv.ru