NASA’s SPHEREx Mission Tracks Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS Through Infrared Eyes

Written by: Astrophyzix Science Communication
Article Type: Official Space Agency sourced News, Explainer, Evidence-based

 

NASA’s SPHEREx Mission Tracks Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS Through Infrared Eyes

NASA’s SPHEREx mission — the Spectro-Photometer for the History of the Universe, Epoch of Reionization, and Ices Explorer has provided one of the most detailed infrared views yet of the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS. As this rare visitor passed through our solar system, SPHEREx measured the light emitted by the gases and dust around the comet’s nucleus, revealing how its frozen materials reacted to solar heating and offering insight into the composition of a body formed around another star.

South Atlantic Anomaly Explained: Earth’s Weak Magnetic Zone, Radiation Risks, and What It Means for Satellites

Written by: Astrophyzix Science Communication
Article Type: Explainer, Scientific Deep-dive, Evidence-based

 

Introduction: What Is the South Atlantic Anomaly?

The South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA) is a region of reduced geomagnetic field strength extending over parts of South America and the South Atlantic Ocean. Within this region, the inner Van Allen radiation belt comes unusually close to Earth’s surface, allowing high-energy charged particles—primarily protons—to penetrate to altitudes typically occupied by low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. As a result, spacecraft passing through the SAA experience enhanced radiation exposure compared to other regions at similar altitudes.

Asteroid (99942 Apophis): From Impact Scare to a Once-in-a-Lifetime Scientific Encounter - Part Two

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Astrophyzix Asteroid Close Approach Series 

Written by: Astrophyzix Science Communication 

Article Type: News, Explainer, Evidence Check

Information Updated: 10 February 2026
 

Introduction

Asteroid 99942 Apophis captured global attention shortly after its discovery in 2004, when early calculations suggested a small but alarming chance of an Earth impact in 2029. At the time, limited observational data created large uncertainties in its predicted trajectory. Over the following two decades, continuous tracking and radar measurements transformed Apophis from a previously feared impact threat into one of the most scientifically valuable near-Earth asteroids ever observed.

Will Apophis hit Earth in 2029? 

No. On 13/04/29 Apophis will pass at a distance of around 20,000 miles or 33,000km.