An Interstellar Comet? C/2019 Q4 Comet Borisov

TL;DR

A new interstellar object, Comet Borisov, is passing through our solar system, providing an opportunity to study its composition and compare it to Oumuamua.

Transcript

In 2017 an object was discovered passing through the solar system that showed a trajectory that indicated that it was not from this solar system, instead it had originated from another star system entirely and had been ejected into interstellar space only to come across us. This object was of course Oumuamua, which ranks as one of the stranger obje... Read More

Key Insights

• 💁 Comet Borisov provides an opportunity to study an interstellar object over a longer period of time, potentially yielding valuable data about its composition and formation.
• ◼️ The differences between Comet Borisov's behavior and Oumuamua's lack of outgassing raise questions about the processes affecting interstellar objects in the interstellar medium.
• 🚀 Intercepting interstellar objects would require advanced planning and launch systems, but with future technologies, it might become more feasible.

Questions & Answers

Q: What makes Comet Borisov different from Oumuamua?

Comet Borisov exhibits typical comet behavior, with a clearly visible coma and tail, while Oumuamua did not display any signs of outgassing. Understanding these differences can provide insights into the origins and composition of interstellar objects.

Q: Can we intercept Comet Borisov?

While the velocity of Comet Borisov is faster than Oumuamua, it might have been possible to intercept it with advanced planning and launch systems. However, intercepting future interstellar objects will depend on various factors and circumstances.

Q: Will studying Comet Borisov provide clues about astrobiology?

If Comet Borisov's composition is similar to solar system comets, including organic compounds and water, it would support the possibility of astrobiology. Comparisons between interstellar and solar system comets can provide insights into the conditions for life in other star systems.

Q: Why are interstellar objects becoming more frequently observed?

The regular observation of interstellar objects passing through our solar system is not unexpected, as our own solar system frequently ejects material into interstellar space. With advancements in technology and new telescopes like the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope, we are likely to detect more interstellar objects.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• In 2017, the interstellar object Oumuamua was discovered, and now Comet Borisov is passing through our solar system, giving scientists a chance to collect more data over a longer period of time.

• Comet Borisov was discovered by amateur astronomer Gennadiy Borisov, who caught it early on its way into the solar system, unlike Oumuamua which was only spotted after it had passed Earth.

• Comet Borisov appears to be a typical comet, with a coma and tail, unlike Oumuamua which barely outgassed. Scientists are interested in understanding the differences between the two objects.