During a recent episode of “The Joe Rogan Experience,” interest in the interstellar object 3I/ATLAS was reignited. Avi Loeb, a prominent astrophysicist from Harvard University, appeared on the podcast and proposed that this object may not be a typical comet. His insights led to a surge of inquiries regarding the timing of 3I/ATLAS”s passage near Earth.
Loeb conveyed to Rogan that he finds certain characteristics of 3I/ATLAS to be rather peculiar. He noted that the object”s trajectory appears to be “targeted.” Loeb explained that the alignment of its path with the orbital plane of the planets is within 5 degrees, a scenario that statistically occurs by chance only once in 500 times. He elaborated, “It”s moving in a retrograde trajectory opposite to the motion of the planets, which is ideal for it to release mini-probes that could reach the planets.”
Further discussing its movement, he stated, “It goes on the opposite side of the Sun relative to Earth when it”s closest, and that”s the time when a spacecraft could perform a maneuver to take advantage of the Sun”s gravitational assist. All of these are interesting indications that may imply some intelligence designed the trajectory.” Such remarks have generated renewed curiosity among fans eager to know when 3I/ATLAS will pass by Earth.
Currently, 3I/ATLAS has reached perihelion, its nearest point to the Sun. However, its closest approach to Earth is scheduled for December 19, 2025. NASA has confirmed that there is no risk of impact from this celestial object.
Avi Loeb, who holds a PhD, is known for his extensive work in theoretical physics and has authored several books, including his latest titled “Interstellar: The Search for Extraterrestrial Life and Our Future in the Stars.”
