Tucson, Arizona — Astronomers have identified a new interstellar object, provisionally named A11pl3Z, that appears to be on a path toward the sun, potentially offering a glimpse into the cosmos beyond our solar system. This object is thought to be a third visitor from interstellar space, following the discovery of ‘Oumuamua in 2017 and Comet 2I/Borisov in 2019.
The International Astronomical Union’s Minor Planet Center confirmed the object on July 1, 2025, marking its entry into the Near-Earth Object database. Despite its proximity, there are no concerns about A11pl3Z colliding with Earth or coming dangerously close to it. Instead, it poses an exciting opportunity for astronomers to study an object originating outside our solar system.
Images shared by amateur astronomer Sam Deen and astrophysics student Astrafoxen highlight A11pl3Z’s trajectory, suggesting it is indeed interstellar. Observed data from the Deep Random Survey in Chile shows the object currently at an approximate magnitude of 18.8, indicating its dimness but also its discernibility through powerful telescopes. It is expected to reach its closest point to the sun in October, at about two astronomical units away, or twice the distance from Earth to the sun.
Marshall Eubanks, a physicist and co-founder of Space Initiatives, estimates A11pl3Z could measure up to 12 miles (20 kilometers) in diameter, making it a considerable yet benign entry into our solar neighborhood. The object will also approach Mars, coming within 0.4 astronomical units of the planet this fall, though it will remain too faint to be easily observed by the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter.
The trajectory data of A11pl3Z shows an eccentricity of 10.4, indicating that its orbit is highly elongated and unlike typical celestial bodies found in the solar system. This unusual characteristic reinforces the notion that it is indeed a newcomer from the galaxy at large.
Social media chatter among astronomers is abuzz with anticipation as observations continue. The European Space Agency’s Planetary Defenders are monitoring A11pl3Z using global telescopes, making their findings and updates available to the public.
The discovery of A11pl3Z underscores the importance of both professional and amateur contributions to astronomy. As detailed observations come in, more clarity about this enigmatic object is expected, potentially shedding light on its origins and the mysteries of our universe.
In summary, A11pl3Z represents an exciting chapter in the study of interstellar objects, as astronomers prepare for its closest passage to the sun later this year. The ongoing quest to understand such visitors from beyond highlights the collaborative nature of modern astronomy and the thrill of exploration beyond our celestial borders.