Comet 31/ATLAS formed 12 billion years ago, revealing primordial planetary system conditions.
Scientists studying comet 31/ATLAS, an interstellar visitor, have determined it formed approximately 12 billion years ago in a primordial planetary system. Its chemical composition is unlike anything in our solar system. Researchers measured the ratio of carbon and hydrogen isotopes using the James Webb Space Telescope. These isotopes provided insights into the temperature and radiation of its formation environment, estimated to be -243°C, significantly colder than our solar system's formation. The carbon composition specifically indicated its age, dating back to a period of intense star formation when the universe was only about 13% of its current age (13.8 billion years ago).
Key Points
- Comet 31/ATLAS, an interstellar object, is estimated to have formed 12 billion years ago.
- Its chemical composition is unique and differs from objects in our solar system.
- Hydrogen and carbon isotopes were measured using the James Webb Space Telescope to determine its formation conditions.
- The comet formed in an extremely cold environment, around -243°C.
- Its age places its formation during a period of intense star formation when the universe was only about 13% of its current age.
Exam Facts
- Comet: 31/ATLAS.
- Estimated formation age: 12 billion years ago.
- Formation temperature: -243°C.
- Telescope used: James Webb Space Telescope.
- Age of the universe: 13.8 billion years ago.
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