A comet entering the inner solar system

Can a Comet Interceptor detect a pristine Comet?

Comet Interceptor will target a pristine comet entering the inner Solar System for the first time. Such objects are difficult to get close to because we can only detect them when they fly near the Sun, leaving little time to plan and launch a mission.

What is Comet Interceptor?

Comet Interceptor is the first mission to take a close look at a pristine comet that has never or rarely entered the inner Solar System before. This could be a so-called long-period comet which comes from the outer reaches of the Sun’s realm, or maybe even an interstellar object that comes from outside the Solar System.

Why is a Comet Interceptor parked in space?

Such objects are difficult to get close to because we can only detect them when they fly near the Sun, leaving little time to plan and launch a mission. That’s why Comet Interceptor will be parked in space, springing to life to intercept a comet when the time is right.

How do comets move through the Solar System?

Every comet that passes through our solar system speeds up on the way out. For one thing, as it swings around the far side of the sun, the solar gravity gives it a sort of whipcrack push. What’s more, dust on the surface of the comet outgasses due to solar heating, providing a natural jet that adds even greater acceleration.

How does a comet form a tail?

This material forms a tail that stretches millions of miles. Comets are cosmic snowballs of frozen gases, rock, and dust that orbit the Sun. When frozen, they are the size of a small town. When a comet's orbit brings it close to the Sun, it heats up and spews dust and gases into a giant glowing head larger than most planets.

Is Comet Interceptor a planetary defence mission?

While not a planetary defence mission, Comet Interceptor is the first rapid response mission ever, validating this new way of doing a space mission. Comet Interceptor will target a pristine comet entering the inner Solar System for the first time.