Scientists insist these signals are consistent with a natural comet ‘outgassing’ as it passes the sun
The MeerKAT radio telescope in South Africa detected the first “radio signals” from 3I/Atlas. Astronomers first spotted the interstellar object in July. It is the size of Manhattan and is speeding through our solar system at 130,000 mph. Its unlikely flight path has fueled speculation that it may be an artificial object visiting our solar system.
But these radio waves appear to come from natural comet “outgassing.” This occurs when water molecules melt as a huge comet passes by the sun.
Harvard professor highlights 3I/Atlas unusual features
Harvard Professor Avi Loeb pointed out that 3I/Atlas—which is only the third interstellar object we’ve had the technology to observe—has a highly unlikely flight path. Its trip through space will pass relatively close to four planets, but not Earth. He also noted that the object has a highly irradiated surface, an overabundance of carbon dioxide and nickel, and a puzzling “anti-tail,” which is opposite that of many other comets.
Scientists weigh in on the alien spaceship theory
The scientific community agrees that 3I/Atlas is potentially the oldest and most widely traveled comet we’ve ever observed. Studying it is well worth the effort. But most experts are not convinced by the “alien spaceship” or “probe” theories.
Radio waves traveling from 3I/Atlas to Earth might seem to support the alien spaceship theory. But the truth is the opposite. These radio waves match regular comet activity. Essentially, the object whipped around the sun, passing close by in late October. The heat supercharged it. Frozen water molecules melted and other elements reacted. The resulting vibrations are strong enough that we can “hear” them from Earth.
It is a genuinely awesome phenomenon, no matter what you believe.
