In an interstellar milestone, China's Mars orbiter from the Tianwen-1 mission has locked onto the mysterious visitor 3I/ATLAS, snapping high-resolution images from roughly 30 million kilometers away.
The spacecraft, operated by the China National Space Administration (CNSA) in the Chinese mainland, captured clear cometary features that now feed an international quest to understand its origins.
Key observation highlights:
- Proximity: About 30 million kilometers from 3I/ATLAS
- Imaging: Clear comet-like structures spotted
- Animation: 30-second time-lapse reveals the object’s motion
Ground teams processed the data through a dedicated application system and stitched together an animation that brings the cosmic traveler to life. Researchers are now diving into these observations, aiming to unlock fresh insights into interstellar chemistry and dynamics.
This achievement showcases how a well-equipped orbiter can transform a fleeting cosmic encounter into a lasting scientific legacy, inspiring young space enthusiasts and thought leaders around the world.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
