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Manhattan-Sized Comet Draws Attention of International Astronomers

25 Oct. 13:47

Source

The comet 31/ATLAS, roughly the size of Manhattan and weighing around 33 billion tons, has become a focus of international astronomical study. According to Avi Loeb from Harvard University, this object far exceeds previously observed interstellar bodies, with a mass at least a thousand times greater than similar comets.

Loeb highlighted several unusual characteristics of 31/ATLAS. Notably, the comet exhibits an anti-tail—a stream of particles pointing toward the Sun rather than away, contrary to normal comet behavior. There was also detection of nickel emissions without iron, a rare phenomenon for such objects.

The comet also shows non-gravitational acceleration, and its trajectory suggests close approaches to several planets in the Solar System, including Jupiter, Venus, and Mars. Although NASA has not reported any threat, the International Asteroid Warning Network (IAWN) has initiated monitoring of the object. Observations are planned from November 27, 2025, to January 27, 2026.

Loeb urged the international community to remain vigilant regarding the comet and be prepared for potential unpredictable events.

















US Court Overturns Immigration Visa Ban Affecting Citizens of 75 Countries

23 Aug. 10:18

Source

A federal court in New York has overturned the US Department of State's directive restricting the issuance of immigration visas to citizens of 75 countries. According to Reuters, the ruling follows legal challenges brought by human rights advocacy groups and visa applicants.

Judge Jeannette Vargas ruled that Secretary of State Marco Rubio exceeded his statutory authority, emphasizing that denying visas solely based on nationality violates legal standards. The court decision presents a major legal setback for the Trump administration's tightened immigration policies.