PARABNORMAL NEWS — A near-Earth object long believed to be an asteroid has been revealed to be a hidden comet, a discovery that could improve scientists' ability to track potential threats to Earth.
Known as 1998 SH2, the object showed no visible tail or glowing coma and was classified as an asteroid for nearly 30 years. But during a close flyby in 2025, NASA researchers noticed it wasn't following its predicted orbit.
Further analysis revealed tiny jets of gas escaping from the object that are subtly altering its path. Follow-up observations confirmed the object is actually a faint active comet.
Scientists say the discovery highlights the importance of continuously monitoring near-Earth objects. Because comets can change course as gas escapes from their surfaces, identifying these hidden objects could improve orbit predictions and strengthen planetary defense efforts.
Photo: NASA/JPL-Caltech
