Ever since the strange object known as 3I/ATLAS entered our solar system, excitement has grown among scientists and space enthusiasts alike. Harvard astrophysicist Avi Loeb suggests it might even be an artifact from an alien civilization.
Most researchers think 3I/ATLAS is just a comet. Recent observations from the Gemini South telescope in Chile show that it’s developing a longer tail as it nears the Sun. This tail forms from dust and gas escaping the object.
However, Loeb remains skeptical. He points out that 3I/ATLAS will make its closest approach to the Sun next month, providing a chance for deeper study. He has urged NASA to use the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter and Juno probe to watch this unusual object closely.
Loeb suggests that if 3I/ATLAS is indeed a technological object, it could be visiting us or deploying smaller probes—similar to reports of unidentified flying objects (UFOs). He emphasizes the importance of staying alert to this possibility.
In an interview with NewsNation, Loeb noted the object’s impressive size—up to 28.5 miles across—which is significantly larger than other interstellar visitors. “This size makes it stand out,” he explained. “There isn’t much material in interstellar space to account for such a massive object.”
Moreover, the trajectory of 3I/ATLAS is quite unusual; it will come close to several planets, such as Mars and Venus. It will pass within just 1.67 million miles of Mars’ orbit, which Loeb calls a “remarkable fine-tuning” of its path.
Yet, Loeb acknowledges that it could all be a natural phenomenon. He mentioned the possibility that 3I/ATLAS may just be a rock with ice on its surface. If this is the case, it would be classified as a natural object.
Despite this, he believes we should keep an open mind. “Some may dismiss unusual findings, but an open-minded scientist sees these as opportunities to learn,” he stated in a blog post. His view is that nature often surprises us, and we should be prepared for anything.
In this age of rapid advancements in technology and space exploration, curiosity remains essential. As we continue to explore our universe, the quest for understanding may surprised us in ways we cannot yet imagine.
For more details, you can check out Loeb’s blog and his thoughts on the subject.
