Is ‘Oumuamua an Interstellar Asteroid or Comet?

Oumuamua, the first confirmed interstellar object, was discovered in 2017. Scientists used various observatories, including NASA's Hubble Space Telescope, to study its unexpected speed boost and trajectory. The object exhibited non-gravitational acceleration, likely due to gas jets, similar to comets. However, unlike typical comets, Oumuamua showed no visible coma or tail, possibly due to sparse or large dust particles. Although further observations are impossible due to its distance, future sky surveys aim to detect more interstellar visitors.

What was the significance of 'Oumuamua's discovery?

• It was the first object to collide with Earth.

• It was the first object from outside our solar system.

• It was the first comet to be observed by Hubble.

• It was the largest asteroid ever found.

What unusual behavior did 'Oumuamua exhibit?

• It split into two objects.

• It changed color as it moved.

• It emitted radio signals.

• It gained an unexpected boost of speed.

How does 'Oumuamua's behavior compare to that of comets?

• It is made entirely of ice.

• It orbits the sun in a circular path.

• It has a visible tail like most comets.

• It emits jets of gas but lacks a visible coma.

Why might 'Oumuamua not have a visible coma or tail?

• It is too far from the sun.

• It has no dust left after its journey.

• It is moving too slowly.

• It is made of metal.

What is the future outlook for observing interstellar objects like 'Oumuamua?

• They will be easy to find with current technology.

• They will be visible only during solar eclipses.

• They will be observed frequently by the Hubble Space Telescope.

• They are likely to be rare and hard to detect.