NASA’s SPHEREx Detects Organic Molecules In Interstellar Comet

 



NASA’s SPHEREx space telescope has delivered new insights into interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS, only the third such object ever observed passing through the solar system. Observations made in December 2025 revealed a rich mix of organic molecules and heightened cometary activity, strengthening scientific understanding of material formed beyond the Sun’s influence.

Infrared observations of a rare interstellar visitor

The NASA’s SPHEREx mission turned its infrared instruments toward comet 3I/ATLAS shortly after it passed closest to the Sun. Scientists detected organic molecules including methanol, cyanide and methane. While these compounds are central to biological processes on Earth, researchers emphasise that such molecules can also form through non-biological processes in space.

Post-perihelion brightening and cometary activity

Mission scientists reported a dramatic increase in the comet’s brightness nearly two months after its closest approach to the Sun. This delayed surge is linked to sublimation, a process in which frozen ices turn directly into gas as heat penetrates deeper layers of the comet. Escaping gases form a surrounding atmosphere, or coma, rich in water vapour, carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide.

Evidence of pristine subsurface material

According to the research team, the delayed venting suggests that deep, previously unexposed ices began erupting well after peak solar heating. Observations indicate that 3I/ATLAS released carbon-rich material that had remained locked beneath its surface for billions of years. Scientists also noted the presence of soot, rocky dust and large solid fragments, indicating that the comet is ejecting heavier material than typically seen.

#Molecules
#MolecularBiology
#ChemicalBiology
#Biomolecules
#MolecularScience
#MolecularStructure
#MolecularInteractions
#LifeAtMolecularLevel
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