Hubble Sees First-Time Icy Visitor Comet K2

Comet K2, discovered in 2017, is a unique and primitive comet that is active at a great distance from the Sun. Unlike typical comets, K2's activity is due to the sublimation of volatile gases at cooler temperatures. This discovery provides a rare opportunity to study a pristine object from the early solar system. Observations from telescopes like Hubble and the upcoming James Webb Space Telescope will allow scientists to learn more about K2 before it leaves the solar system forever.

What makes a comet 'active'?

• It has a solid core.

• It is close to the Sun and its ices sublimate.

• It has a rocky surface.

• It is far from the Sun and remains frozen.

Where was comet K2 discovered?

• By the Hubble Space Telescope

• By the James Webb Space Telescope

• By the Kepler Space Telescope

• By the Pan-STARRS telescope in Hawaii

What is the origin of comet K2?

• The inner solar system

• The Asteroid Belt

• The Oort Cloud

• The Kuiper Belt

Why is comet K2 active at such a great distance from the Sun?

• It is made of water ice.

• It has frozen volatile gases that sublimate at cooler temperatures.

• It is heated by nearby stars.

• It is affected by strong solar winds.

What technological advancement helps in discovering distant comets like K2?

• Advanced space probes

• Improved ground-based telescopes

• Better satellite communication

• Enhanced survey programs like Pan-STARRS