96P/Machholz 1: A Mysterious Comet from Beyond Our Solar System

Comet 96P/Machholz 1, measuring 3.7 miles in width, is being monitored by the NASA-European Space Agency’s Solar and Heliospheric Observatory.

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The comet is believed to have originated from beyond our solar system and is on its way towards the sun within Mercury's orbit. 96P/Machholz 1 has low levels of cyanogen and carbon, which suggest it could have come from another solar system.

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Scientists and researchers are eager to uncover the secrets of the unusual comet as it approaches the sun.

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96P/Machholz 1 was first discovered by amateur astronomer David Machholz in 1986 using a homemade cardboard telescope.

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The comet's large size, over two-thirds the height of Mount Everest, appears to protect it from complete evaporation.

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The unusual orbit of the comet has experts puzzled, with theories suggesting it could be from another solar system or formed in unknown regions of ours.

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The NASA-European Space Agency’s Solar and Heliospheric Observatory has tracked over 3,000 comets since its launch in December 1995.

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The detection of 96P/Machholz 1 has added to the scientific achievements of the observatory, beyond its primary purpose of monitoring solar activity.

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