Recent observations of the interstellar object known as 3I/ATLAS have ignited significant discussion among astronomers. This celestial body, which is making its way through our solar system, has displayed what appears to be a “reverse thrust” as it moved behind the Sun. This anomaly is the latest in a series of unexpected behaviors that have scientists debating its true nature.
3I/ATLAS is only the third confirmed interstellar visitor detected, following “Oumuamua in 2017 and Borisov in 2019. First identified on July 1, this object has shown several unusual characteristics, including a changing trajectory, unexpected brightness, and a unique composition of gases.
The Artificial Object Hypothesis
Harvard astrophysicist Avi Loeb has been vocal about the possibility that 3I/ATLAS may not be a natural comet. He posits that if the object reemerges from behind the Sun in an unexpected position, it might indicate some form of propulsion or controlled movement, suggesting an artificial origin. “If 3I/ATLAS emerges somewhere gravity alone cannot explain, that would suggest an engineered object,” Loeb stated in an interview. He also noted that some scientists hesitate to pursue this line of inquiry due to concerns about their reputations.
Findings from Observatories
Data from the Two-Meter Twin Telescope in the Canary Islands revealed a faint jet approximately 3.7 miles long directed toward the Sun. Further studies conducted in August identified nickel emissions that were not accompanied by the typical iron signature, a phenomenon not observed in conventional comets. Researchers in Chile estimated that 3I/ATLAS is releasing about five grams of nickel and twenty grams of cyanide every second, with these emissions intensifying as it approaches the Sun. A separate study from NASA indicated a massive output of carbon dioxide, with approximately 940 trillion molecules emitted per second, implying that the object originated in a very different solar environment.
Despite its apparent brightness, NASA has adjusted its size estimate for the comet from twelve miles down to about 1.7 miles in diameter. Most of its visible light is attributed to a thick coma, which is a cloud of dust and gas surrounding the object.
Debate Over Images and Shape
Images captured by NASA”s Perseverance rover on Mars have drawn attention for suggesting a cylindrical shape. However, Loeb contends that this appearance may have been distorted due to the rover”s camera processing multiple exposures over time. He estimates that the actual object is “smaller and rounder,” possibly around 28 miles in diameter. Additionally, amateur astronomers have noted a greenish glow surrounding the object, a characteristic consistent with strong gas emissions. Various research teams have concluded that the unusual color, dust patterns, and an “anti-tail” (a tail appearing to point toward the Sun) can all be accounted for by the object”s viewing angles and sunlight reflection.
Monitoring and Future Observations
Although there is no danger of collision, NASA has included 3I/ATLAS in its official catalog of objects of interest for planetary defense. This has prompted a mobilization of 227 observatories globally to monitor the object. The closest approach to Earth is expected on December 19, with scientists anticipating additional data collection when it passes near NASA”s Juno spacecraft on March 16, 2026. Loeb emphasizes that the recurring sightings of interstellar objects like 3I/ATLAS, “Oumuamua, and Borisov highlight the limited understanding of celestial bodies beyond our solar system.
