3I/ATLAS is 7 miles wide — the largest interstellar object ever seen — new photos from Vera C. Rubin Observatory reveal

The largest known interstellar object, comet 3I/ATLAS, is about 7 miles wide, as revealed by new images from the Vera C. Rubin Observatory. Discovered July 1, this ancient comet is racing sunward at over 130,000 mph. The observatory's powerful telescope imaged the comet pre-discovery, showcasing its ability to detect future interstellar objects. Experts anticipate the observatory could identify up to 50 new alien interlopers in the next decade, advancing the study of these rare celestial visitors.