Overview
- Solar and space observatories (STEREO, SOHO, GOES‑19) documented an unexpectedly rapid brightening, a distinctly blue hue, and measurable non‑gravitational acceleration near the October 29–30 perihelion.
- Ground observers report the object is again visible before dawn, with early post‑perihelion images from Lowell Observatory and new small‑telescope detections led by Qicheng Zhang.
- ESA’s JUICE spacecraft is conducting a targeted observing campaign through November 25, with data expected to reach analysts in early 2026 due to telemetry constraints.
- Agencies emphasize there is no hazard to Earth, with closest approach projected for December 19 at roughly 167–170 million miles.
- A minority of researchers, notably Avi Loeb, posit an artificial‑engine explanation, whereas most teams favor an unusual natural comet pending December searches for a large surrounding gas and dust cloud.