Scientists explain the unusual object 3I/ATLAS in the Solar System

• The object 3I/ATLAS was discovered on July 1, 2025.
• Scientists suggest that this may be a typical comet, rather than an interstellar object.
• The threat of collision with 3I/ATLAS is minimal.

This is reported by RBC Ukraine, Marca.

Recently, scientists discovered a new interstellar object 3I/ATLAS, also known as C/2025 N1, which was detected on July 1, 2025, using the ATLAS telescope in Chile. This object, measuring about 15 miles, is considered the third known interstellar visitor to our Solar System.

The object 3I/ATLAS has attracted attention due to its high speed, which is estimated to be around 130,000-140,000 miles per hour, and its unusual trajectory, which brings it close to planets such as Venus, Mars, and Jupiter. Some researchers, including astronomer Avi Loeb from Harvard University, have speculated that it could be a "foreign cosmic probe" due to its speed and the absence of typical cometary gases in its spectrum. However, most astronomers believe these theories are unsubstantiated.

The object 3I/ATLAS will come closest to the Sun on July 29, but at that time, Earth will be on the opposite side, making it difficult to observe. Scientists continue to monitor this object to gather more data.

Currently, there is no evidence that 3I/ATLAS is an artificial construct or that it poses a threat. Scientists emphasize that this object, moving faster than anything else, is a typical comet, not a cosmic apparatus. Thus, the threat of collision is minimal, and the defense systems from hazardous objects are working effectively.

Tags: Technology/Space