Comet 3I/ATLAS, an interstellar visitor, is set to have its final encounter with Jupiter on March 16, 2026. This encounter is significant, as the strong gravitational force of Jupiter will alter the comet's trajectory, pushing it out of our solar system. Recent research has analyzed the anticipated path of 3I/ATLAS through a comprehensive study involving the long-term orbital integration of 500 simulations, detailing the comet's journey for a century both into the past and future.

The study suggests that 3I/ATLAS is likely originating from the Sagittarius constellation and traveling towards the Gemini constellation. As the researchers note, determining the comet's exact region of origin remains challenging due to uncertainties associated with kinematic data.

The proximity of 3I/ATLAS to Jupiter during this encounter will be critical, as it will pass close to Jupiter's Hill radius, at a distance of approximately 0.355 astronomical units (au). This close approach will cause significant gravitational perturbation, likely more powerful than the influence previously exerted by Mars, which had a minor impact on the comet's trajectory.

In addition to gravitational effects, non-gravitational forces—such as outgassing and radiation pressure from the Sun—could unexpectedly alter the comet's course. The research emphasizes that the best opportunity for observations of 3I/ATLAS will occur from March 9 to March 22, 2026, shortly before its encounter with Jupiter. During this period, the Juno spacecraft will be optimally positioned to collect data and provide insights into this enigmatic comet and its origins, enhancing our understanding of celestial bodies from beyond our solar system.