The interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS has been making waves recently. New images show it surrounded by a “complex jet structure,” sparking interest in whether this object might actually be an artificial alien craft. Harvard astrophysicist Dr. Avi Loeb pointed out that the images, taken on November 8, reveal at least seven distinct jets. Some of these jets are directed towards the sun, leading Loeb to suggest they could be from thrusters on a spacecraft.
However, he also noted a more conventional explanation: these jets might just be pockets of ice common in natural comets. Loeb recommends measuring the jets’ outflow velocity and composition over the coming month to determine whether 3I/ATLAS is a natural or technological object. The comet is set to get closest to Earth on December 19.
Another Object in the Spotlight
Another object named C/2025 V1 is stirring discussions. While many speculate if it’s related to 3I/ATLAS, Loeb believes the connection is unlikely due to the vast distance between them—up to 225 million kilometers apart. He emphasized that without some form of non-gravitational propulsion, these two objects are not linked.
Since its discovery in July, 3I/ATLAS has shown some unusual behaviors, like a non-gravitational acceleration that NASA recently observed. Loeb describes it as glowing “bluer than the sun,” hinting it might have a technological feature inside.
Upcoming Viewing Opportunities
Astronomers and sky gazers are gearing up for 3I/ATLAS’s next appearance on November 11, 2025. It recently made its closest approach to the sun on October 30, coming within 130 million miles. For now, it’s hidden behind the sun’s glare. When it reappears, it will be visible low in the eastern sky near Sagittarius, but only with a large telescope—at least 8 inches in diameter, as it won’t be bright enough to see with the naked eye.
Tips for Observing
- Look East: Check the eastern sky an hour before sunrise.
- Find a Dark Spot: Escape city lights for a better view.
- Use the Right Equipment: A telescope will be necessary for a decent look at this intriguing object.
For those unable to catch a glimpse in person, live tracking will be provided by NASA and various universities, offering real-time visuals of this cosmic traveler.
Conclusion
As we await 3I/ATLAS’s return, questions about its nature linger. Is it purely a comet, or is there something more profound at play? Observational efforts in the coming month could shed light on this mystery, sparking excitement and perhaps answering some of these questions.
For more insights into the ongoing developments about interstellar objects, you might explore NASA’s page on comets or check for updates from credible sources like Scientific American.
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