A recent discovery has the astronomy community buzzing. Dr. Avi Loeb, chair of the astronomy department at Harvard, suggests that a massive interstellar object, dubbed 31/ATLAS, may have an alien origin. He warns that this object could either help or threaten us, making it crucial to stay alert.
First spotted by a Chilean telescope, 31/ATLAS measures over 12 miles wide and travels at a staggering 37 miles per second. It’s projected to be about 130 million miles from Earth on October 30, according to NASA.
Loeb and his research team recently published a paper hinting that this object might be a form of “hostile” alien technology. Though it hasn’t undergone peer review, the paper proposes that its unusual trajectory warrants further investigation. Loeb claims that the brightness of 31/ATLAS suggests a significant size, noting that interstellar space typically doesn’t deliver such massive objects frequently. He emphasized that it usually takes about 10,000 years for such a large mass to reach our solar system.
What’s particularly intriguing is the glow surrounding 31/ATLAS. Instead of trailing behind like comets, its glow appears in front. This oddity adds to the mystery, prompting Loeb to advocate for careful scrutiny of interstellar bodies. He insists it’s crucial to determine whether these objects are harmless or pose a threat.
The rise in interest around 31/ATLAS showcases a broader social trend of fascination with extraterrestrial life. Polls indicate that a significant portion of the public believes in the existence of aliens, with recent surveys highlighting a desire for transparency about space exploration and findings.
Loeb is not alone in his curiosity. Many experts are rallying for more funding for research on unidentified aerial phenomena (UAPs). According to a 2022 report by the Pentagon, over 350 recent UAP sightings remain unexplained, igniting debates on military involvement and safety.
As we prepare for the future, whether 31/ATLAS is a boon or a possible danger, experts urge continued vigilance. Dr. Loeb’s findings may open new chapters in our understanding of the cosmos, and the public’s interest indicates we’re ready for those discussions.
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