A recent video circulating on social media has sparked intense debate among scientists regarding the interstellar object known as 3I/ATLAS. The footage, which some claim to feature “leaked” content from a Japanese Space Agency, shows a grainy image of the object appearing elongated and structured, leading to speculation that it resembles a spacecraft more than a typical comet.
The object in question, Comet 3I/ATLAS, was first detected on July 1, 2025, by the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) telescope located in Río Hurtado, Chile. Its designation as “3I” signifies that it is only the third interstellar object discovered, originating from beyond our Solar System. Since its initial observation, Earth has been moving away from 3I/ATLAS while the comet travels toward the Sun, placing it on the far side of the Sun and making it impossible to observe from our planet.
This current invisibility has fueled various theories regarding the object”s true nature. While the viral videos lack verification, scientists are relying on more credible methods to gather information. The European Space Agency (ESA) is taking advantage of a unique opportunity to study 3I/ATLAS through its interplanetary missions. From October 1 to 7, two of ESA”s Mars orbiters—Mars Express and the ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter—will observe the comet as it makes a close approach to Mars, with the nearest distance reaching approximately 30 million kilometers on October 3.
This observation is significant because it provides a perspective that Earth-based telescopes cannot achieve. Following this, between November 2 and 25, the ESA”s Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer (Juice) will direct its instruments toward 3I/ATLAS shortly after the comet”s closest approach to the Sun. Scientists anticipate that Juice will capture the comet in a “very active state,” likely resulting in a visible halo surrounding its nucleus and an extended tail, both enhanced by the Sun”s intense heat.
The data collected from these observations is expected to offer critical insights into the composition and behavior of 3I/ATLAS, potentially debunking the spacecraft theories circulating online. As scientists prepare for these observations, the mystery surrounding this enigmatic interstellar visitor continues to unfold.
