A Harvard astrophysicist has ignited a new scientific firestorm. Professor Avi Loeb suggests the interstellar object 3I/ATLAS might be an artificial probe. This claim challenges the long-held belief it is just a natural comet. Loeb's theory is generating intense debate among astronomers worldwide.
His latest hypothesis follows his earlier work on the object 'Oumuamua. Loeb previously argued that object could also be alien technology. This new assertion places 3I/ATLAS under unprecedented scrutiny. According to Reuters, the scientific community is deeply divided on the issue.
Loeb points to several unusual features of 3I/ATLAS. He highlights its strange "anti-tail" of dust and gas. This jet points toward the Sun, not away from it. That behavior is extremely rare in known comets.
The object's chemical makeup also raises questions. Recent spectral analysis detected nickel emissions without iron. Loeb calls this combination "physically inconsistent" for a natural comet. He suggests these traits hint at a manufactured origin.
Many astronomers urge caution against rushing to conclusions. They acknowledge the anomalies but advocate for more study. The mainstream scientific position remains that 3I/ATLAS is a natural, if unusual, interstellar object.
Loeb has also alleged that space agencies might not be sharing all data. He calls for full transparency with raw telescope imagery. NASA has publicly denied withholding any information. The agency states all data from major observatories is shared through open-access archives.