NASA's SPHEREx Observes Organic Molecules Emitted by Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS
NASA's SPHEREx space telescope detected organic molecules, including methanol, cyanide, and methane, emanating from interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS during its December 2025 approach.
NASA's SPHEREx space telescope has observed interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS releasing organic molecules such as methanol, cyanide, and methane during its December 2025 passage through the solar system. These compounds, fundamental to biological processes on Earth, can also result from non-biological processes.
The SPHEREx team reported a significant increase in the comet's brightness two months after its closest approach to the Sun, indicating heightened activity. Lead author Carey Lisse noted that the comet was "full-on erupting into space," releasing substantial amounts of water ice and carbon-rich material previously trapped beneath its surface.
Comet 3I/ATLAS, discovered in July 2025, is the third known interstellar object to traverse our solar system. Its study offers a rare opportunity to compare the composition of comets from other star systems with those formed locally, enhancing our understanding of planetary formation and the distribution of organic materials across the galaxy.