The interstellar object known as 3I/ATLAS has demonstrated unusual characteristics as it traveled through our solar system, raising intriguing questions among scientists. Observations revealed that the object is accelerating in a manner not solely attributed to gravitational forces and appears “bluer than the Sun.” These findings have prompted Avi Loeb, a Harvard astrophysicist, to suggest the possibility that the object might be an artificial spacecraft.
NASA reported this week that 3I/ATLAS exhibited significant non-gravitational acceleration, indicating a process known as outgassing. This phenomenon is typical for comets, suggesting that the object may lose approximately half its mass and produce a substantial plume of debris in the upcoming months. In a recent publication, Loeb posited that the object’s acceleration, combined with its pronounced blue hue, could signify the presence of an engineered propulsion system. He stated, “This might also explain the report on 3I/ATLAS getting ‘bluer than the Sun.’”
While Earth’s telescopes were unable to capture direct images of 3I/ATLAS as it passed within 172 million miles of the Sun, spacecraft orbiting the Sun ahead of Earth were able to gather valuable data. Observations indicated a “rapid brightening” of the object, which was noted to be “distinctly bluer than the Sun,” according to a paper from the US Naval Research Lab. This unexpected color contrast challenges earlier assessments, which categorized the object as red before it shifted to green.
The closest approach of 3I/ATLAS to Earth is predicted for December 19, 2023, when it will come within approximately 167 million miles. This event will provide researchers on Earth with an optimal opportunity to further investigate whether the object is a comet or a potential artificial craft. Loeb emphasized the significance of this upcoming approach, stating, “If we do not observe a massive cloud of gas around 3I/ATLAS in December, it could be an indicator of a propulsion system.”
Loeb expressed frustration with NASA for not releasing images taken by the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter during its close pass to the Red Planet in early October. Reports suggest that these highly anticipated images will remain withheld until the government reopens. In response to concerns about the object, NASA’s Acting Administrator Sean Duffy sought to allay fears regarding any potential threat posed by 3I/ATLAS.
Duffy reassured the public, stating on X, “NASA’s observations show that this is the third interstellar comet to pass through our solar system. No aliens. No threat to life here on Earth.” His remarks aimed to clarify the nature of the object amidst growing speculation.
As the scientific community continues to analyze the data from 3I/ATLAS, the object remains a focal point of intrigue, blending the realms of astrophysics and the search for extraterrestrial life. The coming weeks will be crucial for determining the true nature of this interstellar visitor and its implications for our understanding of the universe.
