Harvard Scientist Flags Interstellar Comet as Possible Probe
Harvard astrophysicist Avi Loeb published calculations arguing that interstellar object 3I/ATLAS is far larger and heavier than first estimated—over 33 billion tons and at least 3.1 miles across—and that its measured non‑gravitational acceleration could warrant considering artificial (probe) hypotheses. Loeb urged NASA to point the HiRISE camera on the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter at the object to obtain resolving data as it approaches inner solar system distances in the coming days and weeks; the object was first spotted in July and is slated to pass near Mars' orbital distance soon.
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Space
🔍 Key Facts
- Avi Loeb and colleagues calculate 3I/ATLAS has mass >33 billion tons and a nucleus at least 3.1 miles across.
- Observers report measurable non-gravitational acceleration attributed to outgassing; Loeb says this implies a much larger mass than earlier models.
- Loeb publicly requested NASA imagery (HiRISE on the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter) to refine size and mass estimates as the object approaches the inner solar system.