Harvard’s Avi Loeb Claims ‘Alien Ship’ Approaches with Seven Jets

Harvard astrophysicist Avi Loeb has proposed that the interstellar object 3I/ATLAS, currently approaching the Sun, may be an artificial spacecraft equipped with seven visible thrusters. This assertion has sparked both intrigue and skepticism within the scientific community and the public alike.

According to a report from the Daily Star, images of 3I/ATLAS reveal a “large glowing halo” extending approximately half a million kilometres from the object, accompanied by seven distinct jets. Loeb describes some of these jets as anti-tails, projecting in the direction of the sun. In his published article, Loeb emphasizes that 3I/ATLAS could be a “gift from interstellar space,” highlighting ten anomalies that distinguish it from known comets.

Notable Anomalies and Implications

Loeb’s claims center around several key observations. He notes the object’s unusual trajectory, which aligns closely with the ecliptic plane, and its significant mass, which is larger than typical interstellar objects. Additionally, he points out that substantial non-gravitational acceleration has been detected. He states, “The ten anomalies motivated me to propose the possibility that 3I/ATLAS is an extraterrestrial technological product of another civilization in the Milky Way galaxy.”

If verified, the implications of 3I/ATLAS being artificial could be profound. The presence of visible thrusters might indicate a mission of exploration or reconnaissance. An article from NDTV World highlights that regardless of whether the object is benign or hostile, it would require society to consider its potential intent.

The questions raised by this possibility are significant: Are we alone in the universe? Could we identify the actions of another civilization? Does this object present any risk to Earth or our way of life?

Scientific Skepticism and Ongoing Observation

Despite Loeb’s assertions, many mainstream astronomers remain unconvinced. Experts have dismissed the hypothesis of alien technology as “nonsense.” Dr. Samantha Lawler from the University of Regina stated, “All evidence points to this being an ordinary comet that was ejected from another solar system.” Similarly, Brian Cox, a well-known astrophysicist, has criticized speculation not rooted in verified science, characterizing claims about 3I/ATLAS as “drivel.”

The debate focuses on whether the seven jets reported are simply natural outgassing typical of comets or indicative of engineered thrusters. While the Daily Star article leans towards speculative imagery, Loeb argues that the combination of trajectory, acceleration, and visual features could suggest propulsion rather than mere sublimation. Yet, as Live Science points out, Loeb’s paper is more of a “pedagogical exercise” than definitive proof of extraterrestrial origin.

As 3I/ATLAS approaches its perihelion, NASA and other observatories are monitoring its trajectory, brightness, chemical composition, and any signs of unexpected maneuvering. Loeb asserts that the true nature of this interstellar visitor will become clearer as it travels through the inner Solar System.

For the public, the key takeaway is to maintain a sense of curiosity while remaining grounded in scientific rigor. The idea of an alien ship is undoubtedly captivating, generating headlines and viral interest. Nevertheless, prevailing evidence still supports the notion of 3I/ATLAS as a natural interstellar body rather than a product of intelligent technology.

In conclusion, if 3I/ATLAS is indeed firing seven visible thrusters and enveloped in a halo as it approaches the Sun, it could significantly alter our understanding of humanity’s place in the cosmos. Until peer-reviewed data and confirmed observations support this claim, the narrative remains one of high drama and uncertainty.