NASA’s SPHEREx telescope has observed interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS unexpectedly brightening as it leaves the solar system. The comet released water vapour, carbon dioxide, and organic compounds months after its closest solar approach. Scientists say the findings provide a rare chemical snapshot of material formed around another star, helping compare planetary ingredi…​NASA’s SPHEREx telescope has observed interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS unexpectedly brightening as it leaves the solar system. The comet released water vapour, carbon dioxide, and organic compounds months after its closest solar approach. Scientists say the findings provide a rare chemical snapshot of material formed around another star, helping compare planetary ingredi…  ​ science