The comet Bernardinelli-Bernstein is a member of the comet cluster that surrounds the Solar System, located far beyond the orbit of Pluto.
First observed in 2014, the object was initially thought to be a dwarf planet, as it is a thousand times larger than an average comet. It was later placed in the comet class.
Also called C/2014 UN271, the comet takes its other popular name from its discoverers, Gary Bernstein and Pedro Bernardinelli.
Scientists know relatively little about the outer Solar System, where the Oort Cloud is located. Therefore, researchers will have a great opportunity to study the comet as it approaches the Sun.
These investigations are expected to provide important insights into the mysterious outer reaches of the Solar System and its origins.
However, the approach of the aforementioned giant meteorite to the Earth along with the Sun may cause concern. However, scientists believe that this is nothing to worry about.
Because the meteorite is currently located about 30 astronomical units (the unit of measurement determined by the distance of the Earth from the Sun – AU) from the Sun.
It will take 10 years for the comet to reach its closest position to the Sun, and the object will remain just outside Saturn’s orbit even at this position. So it won’t come close enough to Earth to pose any threat.
The giant celestial body will reach its closest position to the Sun on January 21, 2031, after which it will enter a long period of retreat.
Source: The Independent
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