Astronomers discover two populations of unusual dark comets in our solar system

in space •  3 days ago 

Astronomers discover two populations of unusual dark comets in our solar system …

IMG_1752.jpeg

An artist's illustration shows the interstellar visitor 'Oumuamua venting gaseous material from its surface, as a comet would. NASA/ESA/Joseph Olmsted and Frank Summers, STScI

Astronomers have spotted seven new examples of a cosmic phenomenon known as dark comets that could help scientists determine whether the celestial bodies helped deliver vital elements like water to Earth early in the planet’s history.

The discovery doubles the known number of these mysterious celestial objects across our solar system that resemble asteroids but zip through space like comets, albeit without the “tail” comets are known for.

IMG_1753.jpeg

Source : https://www.cnn.com/2024/12/18/science/dark-comets-solar-system/index.html

Authors get paid when people like you upvote their post.
If you enjoyed what you read here, create your account today and start earning FREE BLURT!