Future observations as the comet approaches Earth are expected to provide more clarity. (Image: Ref)
A fresh claim from a leading Harvard scientist is bringing back discussions about the true nature of an object that came from deep space. Avi Loeb suggests that the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS may have released tiny, fast-moving objects, which could potentially be technological probes from an alien civilization.
Loeb's latest theory is based on a photograph of 3I/ATLAS taken on November 20. He points to "two narrow jets directed opposite to each other" that are oriented vertically from the comet's axis. According to Loeb, these strange linear features extend an astonishing million kilometres from the main body. He finds their appearance puzzling, noting that the comet's known rotation should have caused wiggles or gaps in the jets, which are not visible. This anomaly, he argues, demands an explanation beyond a simple natural phenomenon.
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The scientist offers a provocative interpretation. He proposes that these straight lines are not jets of gas, but the trails left behind by "mini-objects" that have departed from 3I/ATLAS. Loeb presents two possibilities for what these objects could be. They might be natural pieces of ice that broke off from the comet's nucleus. Alternatively, he resurrects his earlier hypothesis that the comet could be a "technological mothership" releasing small, self-replicating probes to study our solar system.
This is not the first time Loeb has suggested an extraterrestrial origin for 3I/ATLAS. Weeks ago, he speculated that it could be an alien mothership that would likely release such mini-probes when it reached its closest point to the Sun, known as perihelion. The comet passed perihelion in late October. Loeb calculates that if objects were released then, they could have easily travelled the million-kilometre distance observed in the new image over the subsequent 22 days.
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The interstellar visitor, first detected in July due to its high speed and path not bound by the Sun's gravity, is continuing its journey. It is scheduled to make its closest approach to Earth in December 2025. Loeb states that upcoming observations as the object nears our planet will be crucial. They will help determine if the mysterious lines are real features and not just satellite streaks, and if they are real, whether their origin is natural or something far more extraordinary.
