Brian Cox Addresses Claims of Alien Probe in 3I/ATLAS Discovery

Speculation surrounding the interstellar object known as 3I/ATLAS has intensified, with some suggesting it could be an alien probe. Renowned physicist Professor Brian Cox has now provided clarity on these claims, emphasizing a scientific perspective. First identified on July 1, 2025, by the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) team, 3I/ATLAS quickly captured attention due to its remarkable characteristics.

The object is distinguished by its high speed and a high eccentricity measurement of between 6.1 and 6.2, confirming it as only the third interstellar object ever documented. Unlike a typical asteroid, 3I/ATLAS has been classified as a comet, actively outgassing as it approaches the Sun. This behavior suggests it is not a dormant rock but rather a dynamic celestial body, offering a glimpse into the distant past.

A Cosmic Time Capsule

Professor Cox described 3I/ATLAS as a “time capsule,” providing unique insights into the conditions of the early universe. The comet is believed to be an ancient relic that has journeyed through interstellar space for approximately 10 billion years, likely formed around 7.5 billion years ago, long before the formation of Earth or even the Sun. This extensive journey across the Milky Way reinforces the vast timescales that govern our universe.

As the comet continues its path, it serves as a tangible connection to the universe’s origins, presenting scientists with a rare opportunity for direct study. Despite its current positioning behind the Sun from our perspective, robotic explorers have been monitoring its progress. The European Space Agency (ESA)‘s ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter successfully captured images of 3I/ATLAS as it passed by Mars, with observation efforts set to continue as it ventures deeper into the Solar System.

Scientific Consensus on 3I/ATLAS

While theories of an artificial origin have captivated the public imagination, the scientific community remains largely skeptical. Experts from NASA and the SETI Institute have stated that there is no credible evidence to support claims that 3I/ATLAS is anything other than a natural comet.

Cox placed the discovery in historical context, noting humanity’s rapid scientific advancements over the centuries. “Merely 400 years ago, we were debating whether the Earth went around the Sun,” he pointed out. Today, we possess the technology to photograph an ancient comet from another star system using orbiters around other planets.

The ongoing study of 3I/ATLAS marks a significant achievement in our exploration of the cosmos, underscoring that the truth about this interstellar visitor centers not on extraterrestrial life but on our own capacity for discovery and understanding. As scientists continue to analyze its composition and behavior, the comet promises to reveal invaluable information, enhancing our knowledge of the universe and our place within it.