Tianwen 1 Mars orbiter captures rare images of interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS

In a groundbreaking achievement for China’s space exploration program, the Tianwen 1 Mars orbiter has successfully captured rare images of the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS as it traversed the solar system. The China National Space Administration (CNSA) announced the discovery on November 6, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing Tianwen 1 mission. The comet, which passed near Mars on October 3, is only the third confirmed interstellar object ever observed, following 1I/’Oumuamua and 2I/Borisov. This remarkable feat underscores China’s growing capabilities in deep-space observation and its contributions to planetary science. The images provide valuable insights into the composition and behavior of interstellar comets, offering scientists a unique opportunity to study objects originating from beyond our solar system. The Tianwen 1 mission, launched in 2020, continues to deliver groundbreaking discoveries, solidifying China’s position as a key player in global space exploration.