The Biggest Comet Ever Found is Headed Our Way

Scientists discovered Comet Bernardinelli-Bernstein, potentially the largest comet ever detected, using data from the Dark Energy Survey. The DEcam, a powerful camera, helped identify this comet among other trans-neptunian objects. Initially thought to be a minor planet, UN271 was reclassified as a comet due to its coma. This long-period comet, originating from the Oort cloud, offers a unique opportunity to study the early solar system. It will pass closest to the sun in 2031, allowing further observation and analysis.

What was the primary goal of the Dark Energy Survey, which led to the discovery of Comet Bernardinelli-Bernstein?

• To discover new planets in the solar system

• To understand the nature of dark energy

• To map the entire Milky Way galaxy

• To find extraterrestrial life

How did researchers initially identify Comet Bernardinelli-Bernstein?

• By measuring its gravitational pull on nearby objects

• By observing its tail through a telescope

• By analyzing images for moving points of light

• By detecting radio signals from the comet

What was Comet Bernardinelli-Bernstein initially classified as before being recognized as a comet?

• An asteroid

• A minor planet

• A trans-neptunian object

• A dwarf planet

Where is Comet Bernardinelli-Bernstein believed to have originated from?

• The Andromeda Galaxy

• The Oort Cloud

• The Asteroid Belt

• The Kuiper Belt

When is Comet Bernardinelli-Bernstein expected to pass closest to the Sun?

• January 23rd, 2025

• January 23rd, 2050

• January 23rd, 2031

• January 23rd, 2040