The interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS, discovered on July 1, 2025, has opened a new stage of study for NASA and ESA. It is a celestial body traveling at high speed from outside the Solar System and is preparing for a key passage in the coming weeks.
Space agencies have already confirmed that it poses no risk to Earth, although its approach in December will be a historic scientific opportunity.
When will the closest approach occur?
On October 29 it will reach its perihelion, the closest point to the Sun, at an approximate distance of 210 million kilometers (130 million miles). During that stage, its erosion will intensify, generating a more pronounced trail of dust and gases.
It will then continue its journey until December 19, the day it will be closest to Earth, although it will be located behind the Sun. Therefore, it will be impossible to see it with the naked eye.
