Astronomer Gianluca Masi captured a spectacular image of interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS on Nov. 19, as it raced headlong away from the sun following a close pass of our parent star on Oct. 29, an event known as perihelion.

The unusual comet—which is to pass Earth again in the coming weeks—is only the third known object to visit us from outside the solar system.

Harvard scientist Avi Loeb speculated that NASA’s recently released photos of 3I/ATLAS could potentially point to its artificial origins — and even wondered if the so-called comet was purposely targeting and sweeping meteorites out of its path. He posited his theory in a viral new blog post on Medium.

ESA's ExoMars orbiter has tracked interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS at unprecedented speed, refining its trajectory and offering vital lessons for planetary defence.

The new study involved taking a fresh look at the "Altamura Man," which is an exceptionally well-preserved Neanderthal skeleton covered in a thick layer of calcite, sometimes called "cave popcorn." The researchers' findings suggest that the size of Neanderthal noses might not have had anything to do with living in cold temperatures.

A flying piece of cosmic rock or an alien threat? Comet 3I/ATLAS is hurtling through our solar system and captivating scientists and internet users alike, even prompting Kim Kardashian to ask NASA for answers.

Space agency NASA is monitoring two large bus-sized asteroids passing through Earth this week. NASA is closely keeping a watch on 2051 VPI and 3361 Orpheus amid the growing mystery surrounding interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS.