Astronomers have discovered a new type of space object called “dark comets.” These objects, which appear like asteroids with hidden ice, could be responsible for a large portion of near-Earth objects. While they lack the visible coma and tail of regular comets, they exhibit unexplained acceleration, suggesting the presence of unseen ice sublimation.
Researchers believe dark comets originated from the asteroid belt, further supporting the theory that icy materials exist within it. Their discovery strengthens the idea that icy objects delivered water to Earth during its early formation. This aligns with the existence of “active asteroids” within the belt that display comet-like behavior.
While the precise connection between dark comets and active asteroids is unclear, both types could have played significant roles in delivering water to Earth. Future research will further explore these intriguing objects.
The study suggests a possible route for transporting ice into the inner solar system. While it doesn’t definitively prove that dark comets brought water to Earth, it highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the origin of Earth’s water. It provides a new pathway for ice to travel from other parts of the solar system to Earth’s environment.
Additionally, the research indicates that one dark comet may have originated from the Jupiter family of comets, those whose orbits bring them near Jupiter. The findings have been published in the journal Icarus.
