Overview

• New Gemini South GMOS images reveal a pronounced tail and bright coma, underscoring active cometary behavior.
• Michigan State University’s peer‑reviewed analysis of May 2025 TESS data extends the timeline and shows the object was already active far from the Sun.
• Hubble, JWST and SPHEREx observations indicate CO2‑driven outgassing and unusual chemistry, with reports of abundant nickel and little iron still labeled preliminary.
• Observations track faster‑than‑expected brightening and increasing activity, with scientists noting that such behavior can be unpredictable.
• NASA’s Tom Statler and Neil deGrasse Tyson dismiss artificial‑origin claims as Hubble caps the nucleus at about 2.8 km, while Mars orbiters target the Oct. 3 pass before perihelion in late October and an Earth approach in mid‑December.