阿特拉斯,被成功观测!
Zhong Guo Zheng Quan Bao·2025-11-06 03:01

Core Viewpoint - The Tianwen-1 spacecraft successfully observed the interstellar object ATLAS, revealing its comet-like features, marking a significant achievement in China's space exploration efforts [1][3]. Group 1: Observation Details - The Tianwen-1 orbiter utilized a high-resolution camera to observe ATLAS from approximately 30 million kilometers away, making it one of the closest probes to this celestial body [2][3]. - ATLAS, discovered on July 1, 2025, by a telescope in Chile, is the third known interstellar object to visit the solar system, with an estimated age between 3 billion and 11 billion years [3][5]. Group 2: Findings from the Observation - The images captured during the observation clearly show the comet-like characteristics of ATLAS, including a nucleus and surrounding coma, with a diameter of several thousand kilometers [5][8]. - The research team created an animation of ATLAS's trajectory using a series of images taken over 30 seconds, indicating ongoing in-depth studies of the object [5]. Group 3: Preparation and Challenges - The Tianwen-1 spacecraft, operational since February 2021, underwent extensive preparations for the ATLAS observation starting in early September [6]. - The observation posed significant challenges due to the object's distance, rapid movement, and small size, requiring precise control of the spacecraft's orientation and imaging strategy [6][8]. Group 4: Technological Significance - This observation represents a critical expansion of Tianwen-1's mission capabilities, as the optical equipment was originally designed for bright Martian surfaces, marking the first attempt to capture images of such a distant and faint target [8]. - The successful observation of ATLAS serves as a technical trial for future asteroid exploration missions with Tianwen-2, contributing valuable experience to the program [8].