Interstellar object 3I/ATLAS continues its journey across the solar system

Interstellar Object Threeey Atlas Analysis - Observation of Threeey Atlas, the third interstellar object, is underway, with real-time streaming of telescope images [1] - The object is considered a building block from another star system, sparking scientific interest [1][2] - The object's tail development is under close observation, though its nature remains uncertain [2] Trajectory and Observation - Threeey Atlas will pass by Mars around October 3rd, offering NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter a prime viewing opportunity [3] - The Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter's camera could potentially resolve the object with a pixel size of 30 kilometers, providing crucial data [8] - Earth-based observation windows are closing due to the sun's glare, making the Mars flyby critical [2][9] Object Characteristics and Composition - Initial estimates suggested a size of 20 to 40 kilometers in diameter, comparable to a city like San Francisco [4] - The object's nature is debated: it could be a solid object or a dense cloud of dust [5] - Unusual behavior, such as a glow ahead of the object and a teardrop-shaped plume, is being investigated [10] - The object's plume is primarily carbon dioxide (95% by mass) with only 5% water vapor, based on web telescope data [12] - Recent data indicates the presence of nickel without iron, a combination typically associated with industrial production [12] Scientific Debate and Classification - The object's classification is uncertain, with possibilities ranging from a natural object to a technological one [14] - One astronomer uses a "Lobe scale" to rank the object, currently placing it at four out of ten, leaning towards natural but with open questions [14]