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Harvard Astrophysicist Suggests Mysterious Interstellar Object May Be an Alien Probe
Harvard astrophysicist Avi Loeb suggests Comet 3I/ATLAS may be an alien probe, while NASA data shows a typical cometary brightening with outgassing, scientists say.
- In February 2026, NASA's SPHEREx measured infrared emission from Comet 3I/ATLAS, and Loeb suggested it might be an artificial probe, igniting controversy.
- Researchers say Comet 3I/ATLAS brightened dramatically about two months after perihelion due to eruptive venting and sublimation of water and volatile ices releasing dust and gases.
- On July 1, 2026, ground-based images of 3I/ATLAS were captured, making it the third interstellar object detected, sparking comparisons to 'Oumuamua.
- The co‑authored paper warned the object could be a hostile spacecraft and urged preparedness, noting potential serious consequences and possible need for defensive measures despite likely futility.
- SPHEREx's campaign positions researchers to study rare visitors, with analyses revealing the coma contains early solar‑system materials, including organics, soot, and rock dust.
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Harvard astrophysicist suggests mysterious interstellar object may be an alien probe
3I/ATLAS, a mysterious interstellar object racing toward the Sun, is baffling scientists with its speed and origin. Some researchers suggest it could even be alien-made, drawing comparisons to probes humanity has sent beyond the Solar System. Detecting whether it’s natural or artificial would rely on subtle signs like radio emissions or unusual movements.
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Total News Sources17
Leaning Left2Leaning Right2Center4Last UpdatedBias Distribution50% Center
Bias Distribution
- 50% of the sources are Center
50% Center
L 25%
C 50%
R 25%
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