Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS is Larger, More Anomalous Then Previously Thought, Harvard Astrophysicist Claims
An interstellar comet, 3I/ATLAS, discovered in July, is exhibiting characteristics that suggest it is far more considerable and unusual than initially estimated, according to a new analysis by Harvard University astrophysicist Avi Loeb. Loeb proposes the comet may not be a naturally occurring object, citing seven anomalies that set it apart from typical comets.
The comet, traveling at over 220,000 kilometers per hour, has surprised scientists with its size and trajectory. LoebS research highlights a perfectly aligned path with the planetary plane, an unusual nickel composition, and a polished surface indicated by polarized light reflection. These factors, combined with its close proximity to Mars, Venus, and Jupiter in a short timeframe, and a potential correlation with the 1977 “WOW” signal, have led Loeb to suggest the possibility of a non-natural origin.
Discovered by the ATLAS survey on July 1,3I/ATLAS is currently not a threat to Earth. However,it is expected to become visible again through ground-based telescopes in early December 2025,after reaching its closest point to the Sun.The comet’s unusual properties are prompting further investigation into the possibility of extraterrestrial technology, though Loeb emphasizes the need for continued observation and data collection to confirm his hypothesis.
NASA captured illustrative images of the comet, which can be viewed here: [https://www.nacion.com/resizer/v2/ZN5F22QTHRASNG4DR3FBMOB3OM.png?smart=true&auth=8d0aa0f576e4ef51979ac2d3e767551cba74fbbb55c1ca0ef587185267c3e05e&width=768&height=511 768w, https://www.nacion.com/resizer/v2/ZN5F22QTHRASNG4DR3FBMOB3OM.png?smart=true&auth=8d0aa0f576e4ef51979ac2d3e767551cba74fbbb55c1ca0ef587185267c3e05e&width=1024&height=681 1024w, https://www.nacion.com/resizer/v2/ZN5F22QTHRASNG4DR3FBMOB3OM.png?smart=true&auth=8d0aa0f576e4ef51979ac2d3e767551cba74fbbb55c1ca0ef587185267c3e05e&width=1440&height=958 1440w](https://www.nacion.com/resizer/v2/ZN5F22QTHRASNG4DR3FBMOB3OM.png?smart=true&auth=8d0aa0f576e4ef51979ac2d3e767551cba74fbbb55c1ca0ef587185267c3e05e&width=768&height=511 768w, https://www.nacion.com/resizer/v2/ZN5F22QTHRASNG4DR3FBMOB3OM.png?smart=true&auth=8d0aa0f576e4ef51979ac2d3e767551cba74fbbb55c1ca0ef587185267c3e05e&width=1024&height=681 1024w,https://www.nacion.com/resizer/v2/ZN
