3I/ATLAS comet is bursting with alcohol, surprising astronomers

An artist's impression of 3I/ATLAS is shown as it passes near the Sun, illuminating one side of the comet. On the side of the comet closer to the sun, the methanol gas is shown in blue, with icy dust grains still present in the gas. On the dark side of the comet, the hydrogen cyanide is shown in orange. Breakthroughs, discoveries, and DIY tips sent six days a week. The comet 3I/ATLAS is well on its way back into deep space, but the famous cosmic visitor continues to fascinate astronomers.