A 7-Billion-Year-Old Ice Ball Just Entered Our Solar System – New Study

Education, Research & Positions
Dr AF Saeed
12th July 2025
0
2 minutes read

A mysterious, ice-rich comet named 3I/ATLAS has entered our solar system — and it may be the oldest comet ever observed. Estimated to be over 7 billion years old, this interstellar visitor likely originated from the Milky Way’s thick disk, far beyond the familiar realm of our Sun and planets. Discovery of a Possible Ancient […]

Summary

Comet 3I/ATLAS, potentially the oldest comet ever seen at over 7 billion years old, is visiting our solar system. Originating from the Milky Way’s thick disk, this ice-rich interstellar object is a rare find. Its ancient nature suggests it formed in the earliest days of our galaxy, offering scientists a glimpse into the building blocks of planetary systems far beyond our own Sun and planets. Its composition and trajectory are of significant interest to researchers.