Comet alert: Over the next few months, several comets will visit Earth and some of them are expected to be visible to the naked eye. One of them is visiting us after the year 629. It will be a great time for stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts to catch a glimpse of these comets.

Comet alert: Over the next few months, several comets will visit Earth and some of them are expected to be visible to the naked eye. One of them is visiting us after the year 629. It will be a great time for stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts to catch a glimpse of these comets.

Comet parade: 5 comets are racing towards Earth. When to see them, perihelion, distance and other details

NASA’s SPHEREx space observatory has noticed a cloud of carbon dioxide (CO2) around 3I/ATLAS, the interstellar object racing towards the inner solar system. The observations were made between August 8–12, and Harvard scientist Avi Loeb has an interesting theory about it. He has been claiming that this object is not natural and has been sent by extraterrestrial beings to probe Earth and other planets. He wrote in a blog post that SPHEREx noticed "a mass loss rate of about 70 kilograms per second" and "no water (H2O) cloud was detected." Loeb added that the NASA report shows a "lack of a bright water gas coma", which has confused scientists since 3I/ATLAS was "not too far outside the Solar system’s 'water ice line” at 2.5 AU" when the observatory made the observations. He admits that even though H2O is not present in gas form, "the reflected spectrum from the surface of 3I/ATLAS" showed a "mix of water and carbon dioxide ices combined with organics."Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/wake-up-call-for-humanity-scientist-wants-3i-atlas-to-be-alien-spaceship-here-s-why-1756095787834">'Wake-up call for humanity’: Scientist wants 3I/ATLAS to be alien spaceship — Here’s why</a> Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/harvard-scientist-calls-on-world-leaders-to-prepare-common-plan-on-alien-attack-1755064546960">3I/ATLAS and its 'intent': Harvard scientist calls on world leaders to prepare for an alien attack</a>&nbsp;<h2>NASA observatory data suggests 3I/ATLAS is extremely large</h2>He once again argued that the latest images by SPHEREx do not resolve the "dust coma" contention, and the sunlight scattered around it is compact and reflecting off the dust on it. He cited the data collected by the NASA observatory to suggest that 3I/ATLAS has a large nucleus with a diameter of 46 kilometres. Loeb says that if this object is a space rock, then it is a million times bigger than the previous interstellar comet 2I/Borisov. However, as per his calculations, this is not possible. Based on his projections about the amount of rocky material present per unit volume in interstellar space, humans should have by now found at least a million objects about the size of 2I/Borisov before a 46-kilometre object.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/when-will-alien-invasion-on-earth-happen-spacecraft-ship-probe-1754106497174">Scientist reveals HOW and WHEN alien 'mothership' could attack Earth, warns governments to take action</a>&nbsp;<h2>Reddening in reflection shows 3I/ATLAS is large</h2>In the same blog post, Loeb once again asserted that 3I/ATLAS is targeting the inner solar system "by technological design", implying that it has been sent by an intelligent civilisation capable of interstellar travel. Loeb pointed to its trajectory in contrast to the orbit of the planets around the Sun and implied that the chances of such a random orientation happening are only one in 500. The Hubble Space Telescope has also observed a reddening in the spectrum of reflected sunlight from 3I/ATLAS and no tail, which means there is not much dust around it. Meanwhile, the reddening proves that this interstellar object is large. A COs layer that is only a millimetre-thick is being removed from the object, which he says shows that a thin layer of dust is sufficient to maintain this cloud of COs gas around it. This cloud is hiding something, and it is not a comet, Loeb says. &nbsp;

3I/ATLAS interstellar object: A NASA observatory has noticed a cloud of CO2 around 3I/ATLAS. Harvard scientist Avi Loeb says there is no water cloud and no “bright water gas coma”. He has once again asserted that this shows that it is nearly impossible for  3I/ATLAS to be a space rock.

NASA’s SPHEREx space observatory has noticed a cloud of carbon dioxide (CO2) around 3I/ATLAS, the interstellar object racing towards the inner solar system. The observations were made between August 8–12, and Harvard scientist Avi Loeb has an interesting theory about it. He has been claiming that this object is not natural and has been sent by extraterrestrial beings to probe Earth and other planets. He wrote in a blog post that SPHEREx noticed "a mass loss rate of about 70 kilograms per second" and "no water (H2O) cloud was detected." Loeb added that the NASA report shows a "lack of a bright water gas coma", which has confused scientists since 3I/ATLAS was "not too far outside the Solar system’s 'water ice line” at 2.5 AU" when the observatory made the observations. He admits that even though H2O is not present in gas form, "the reflected spectrum from the surface of 3I/ATLAS" showed a "mix of water and carbon dioxide ices combined with organics." Also Read: 'Wake-up call for humanity’: Scientist wants 3I/ATLAS to be alien spaceship — Here’s why Also Read: 3I/ATLAS and its 'intent': Harvard scientist calls on world leaders to prepare for an alien attack NASA observatory data suggests 3I/ATLAS is extremely large He once again argued that the latest images by SPHEREx do not resolve the "dust coma" contention, and the sunlight scattered around it is compact and reflecting off the dust on it. He cited the data collected by the NASA observatory to suggest that 3I/ATLAS has a large nucleus with a diameter of 46 kilometres. Loeb says that if this object is a space rock, then it is a million times bigger than the previous interstellar comet 2I/Borisov. However, as per his calculations, this is not possible. Based on his projections about the amount of rocky material present per unit volume in interstellar space, humans should have by now found at least a million objects about the size of 2I/Borisov before a 46-kilometre object. Also Read: Scientist reveals HOW and WHEN alien 'mothership' could attack Earth, warns governments to take action Reddening in reflection shows 3I/ATLAS is large In the same blog post, Loeb once again asserted that 3I/ATLAS is targeting the inner solar system "by technological design", implying that it has been sent by an intelligent civilisation capable of interstellar travel. Loeb pointed to its trajectory in contrast to the orbit of the planets around the Sun and implied that the chances of such a random orientation happening are only one in 500. The Hubble Space Telescope has also observed a reddening in the spectrum of reflected sunlight from 3I/ATLAS and no tail, which means there is not much dust around it. Meanwhile, the reddening proves that this interstellar object is large. A COs layer that is only a millimetre-thick is being removed from the object, which he says shows that a thin layer of dust is sufficient to maintain this cloud of COs gas around it. This cloud is hiding something, and it is not a comet, Loeb says.

3I/ATLAS interstellar object: A NASA observatory has noticed a cloud of CO2 around 3I/ATLAS. Harvard scientist Avi Loeb says there is no water cloud and no “bright water gas coma”. He has once again asserted that this shows that it is nearly impossible for &nbsp;3I/ATLAS to be a space rock.

1-in-500 cosmic coincidence? Scientist says 3I/ATLAS could be millions of times bigger than 2I/Borisov, only if...

Harvard scientist Avi Loeb earnestly hopes that the interstellar alien object in the solar system turns out to be a spacecraft sent by extraterrestrial beings. This comes after his very open assertion, backed by evidence, that it is not a natural space rock or comet. He has said that almost everything about 3I/ATLAS points to it being an object designed by someone. Its trajectory, the light it released, and the lack of a tail are signs that it is not a naturally occurring cosmic body. Meanwhile, everyone else is refuting his claims, saying it is impossible that 3I/ATLAS is an alien spacecraft. But Loeb stands steadfast on his observations. In fact, he actually wishes that the interstellar object were an alien probe coming for Earth. In a new blog post, Loeb states that the "mothership" will be a wake-up call for humans busy fighting for land and resources on Earth. He has previously called for world leaders to join hands and work towards a common threat, which 3I/ATLAS could be.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/harvard-scientist-calls-on-world-leaders-to-prepare-common-plan-on-alien-attack-1755064546960">3I/ATLAS and its 'intent': Harvard scientist calls on world leaders to prepare for an alien attack</a>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientist-claims-mystery-interstellar-object-is-here-to-test-human-intelligence-and-we-have-already-failed-here-s-why-1755585246596">Scientist claims mystery interstellar object is here to test human intelligence, and we have already failed. Here's why</a>&nbsp;<h2>Why humans need alien technology</h2>Loeb says he is aware that "our financial or political systems will respond to such a potential threat in earnest only after our first encounter with alien technology." If the world agrees that 3I/ATLAS is aliens coming to seed Earth and other planets with probes, it "would reset our priorities", Loeb says. "Humanity desperately needs a wakeup call," Loeb wrote, and if his fears about the interstellar visitor turn out to be real, it would reset priorities and humans will be forced to stop focusing on "terrestrial conflicts", and explore what lies "beyond Earth". "With that perspective in mind, would it be better if 3I/ATLAS happens to be a spacecraft?" Loeb, known for his alien theories, asks.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/when-will-alien-invasion-on-earth-happen-spacecraft-ship-probe-1754106497174">Scientist reveals HOW and WHEN alien 'mothership' could attack Earth, warns governments to take action</a>&nbsp;The second reason Loeb thinks it is a good idea to encounter alien technology is that stumbling upon it in the way of 3I/ATLAS will save the world millions in research. If an alien spacecraft is coming towards Earth, it would be a treasure trove of technology that humans have yet to create. Accessing the scientific knowledge of another world will fast-forward human technology without adding to the financial burden of funding research to reach there, besides saving time.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/scientist-claims-interstellar-comet-could-be-alien-technology-1755926067724/embed&nbsp;<h2>Human space travel to Moon, Mars and beyond</h2>The third reason the Harvard scientists want the visitor from outer space to be an alien spaceship is that it would be proof that interstellar travel is possible and inspire humans to undertake the journey themselves one day. Right now, NASA and other space agencies are trying to go as far as Mars. But encountering an alien spaceship will help them go beyond just the red planet. Notably, the Voyager spacecraft are already in deep space, but Loeb seems to be pointing to the fact that humans can visit interstellar space too if we gain access to alien technology.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/baba-vanga-predicted-alien-contact-in-2025-interstellar-spaceship-comet-solar-system-1754538939635">Baba Vanga Predicted Alien Contact In 2025. Is Interstellar 'Mothership' Hurtling Towards Earth Them Reaching Out?</a>&nbsp;Loeb argues that if humans are sure that aliens can attack Earth, they would sit up and take the necessary steps to protect the planet. He wrote that setting up "an alert system of monitors and interceptors around the Sun would protect Earth from a global threat by alien technology," besides telling us what lies beyond what we already know.&nbsp;

Are aliens coming to attack Earth with 3I/ATLAS? A Harvard scientist thinks it will be good news for Earth if the interstellar visitor turns out to be an alien spacecraft. He says encountering alien technology will change humanity forever. 

Harvard scientist Avi Loeb earnestly hopes that the interstellar alien object in the solar system turns out to be a spacecraft sent by extraterrestrial beings. This comes after his very open assertion, backed by evidence, that it is not a natural space rock or comet. He has said that almost everything about 3I/ATLAS points to it being an object designed by someone. Its trajectory, the light it released, and the lack of a tail are signs that it is not a naturally occurring cosmic body. Meanwhile, everyone else is refuting his claims, saying it is impossible that 3I/ATLAS is an alien spacecraft. But Loeb stands steadfast on his observations. In fact, he actually wishes that the interstellar object were an alien probe coming for Earth. In a new blog post, Loeb states that the "mothership" will be a wake-up call for humans busy fighting for land and resources on Earth. He has previously called for world leaders to join hands and work towards a common threat, which 3I/ATLAS could be. Also Read: 3I/ATLAS and its 'intent': Harvard scientist calls on world leaders to prepare for an alien attack Also Read: Scientist claims mystery interstellar object is here to test human intelligence, and we have already failed. Here's why Why humans need alien technology Loeb says he is aware that "our financial or political systems will respond to such a potential threat in earnest only after our first encounter with alien technology." If the world agrees that 3I/ATLAS is aliens coming to seed Earth and other planets with probes, it "would reset our priorities", Loeb says. "Humanity desperately needs a wakeup call," Loeb wrote, and if his fears about the interstellar visitor turn out to be real, it would reset priorities and humans will be forced to stop focusing on "terrestrial conflicts", and explore what lies "beyond Earth". "With that perspective in mind, would it be better if 3I/ATLAS happens to be a spacecraft?" Loeb, known for his alien theories, asks. Also Read: Scientist reveals HOW and WHEN alien 'mothership' could attack Earth, warns governments to take action The second reason Loeb thinks it is a good idea to encounter alien technology is that stumbling upon it in the way of 3I/ATLAS will save the world millions in research. If an alien spacecraft is coming towards Earth, it would be a treasure trove of technology that humans have yet to create. Accessing the scientific knowledge of another world will fast-forward human technology without adding to the financial burden of funding research to reach there, besides saving time. https://www.wionews.com/videos/scientist-claims-interstellar-comet-could-be-alien-technology-1755926067724/embed Human space travel to Moon, Mars and beyond The third reason the Harvard scientists want the visitor from outer space to be an alien spaceship is that it would be proof that interstellar travel is possible and inspire humans to undertake the journey themselves one day. Right now, NASA and other space agencies are trying to go as far as Mars. But encountering an alien spaceship will help them go beyond just the red planet. Notably, the Voyager spacecraft are already in deep space, but Loeb seems to be pointing to the fact that humans can visit interstellar space too if we gain access to alien technology. Also Read: Baba Vanga Predicted Alien Contact In 2025. Is Interstellar 'Mothership' Hurtling Towards Earth Them Reaching Out? Loeb argues that if humans are sure that aliens can attack Earth, they would sit up and take the necessary steps to protect the planet. He wrote that setting up "an alert system of monitors and interceptors around the Sun would protect Earth from a global threat by alien technology," besides telling us what lies beyond what we already know.

Are aliens coming to attack Earth with 3I/ATLAS? A Harvard scientist thinks it will be good news for Earth if the interstellar visitor turns out to be an alien spacecraft. He says encountering alien technology will change humanity forever.&nbsp;

'Wake-up call for humanity’: Scientist wants 3I/ATLAS to be alien spaceship — Here’s why

Where do interstellar objects come from? Scientists have revealed where Oumuamua, 2I/Borisov, and 3I/Atlas originated in space, and also their age. One of them is almost as old as Earth. Where are they headed?

Where do interstellar objects come from? Scientists have revealed where 1I/'Oumuamua, 2I/Borisov, and 3I/Atlas originated in space, and also their age. One of them is almost as old as Earth. Where are they headed?

Where did interstellar objects 1I/'Oumuamua, 2I/Borisov, and 3I/Atlas come from? And where are they going?

Harvard scientist Avi Loeb has claimed that the interstellar object 3I/ATLAS hurtling towards the inner solar system is an alien spaceship sent by an advanced civilisation. Other astronomers agree that it is a comet, but Loeb has proposed his alternate theory, one that has been dismissed by almost every other expert. This could have flagged humans as undeserving of a "high status in the class of intelligent civilisations within the Milky Way galaxy." Loeb has now claimed that the probe is something like a Turing Test for humanity. He says that anyone who dismisses the object as a space rock could have failed the test in the eyes of an extraterrestrial being. Interstellar object 3I/ATLAS is only the third visitor to our solar system from outer space. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/baba-vanga-predicted-alien-contact-in-2025-interstellar-spaceship-comet-solar-system-1754538939635">Baba Vanga Predicted Alien Contact In 2025. Is Interstellar 'Mothership' Hurtling Towards Earth Them Reaching Out?</a>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/when-will-alien-invasion-on-earth-happen-spacecraft-ship-probe-1754106497174">Scientist reveals HOW and WHEN alien 'mothership' could attack Earth, warns governments to take action</a>&nbsp;<h2>Interstellar ‘mothership’ is here to test human intelligence: Loeb</h2>In a new blog post, Loeb explained what the aliens could be trying to do with the "mothership" they have sent to the solar system. He wrote, "It is well known to any interstellar traveller that there are plenty of icy rocks in planetary systems. These constitute the leftover building blocks from the construction process of the planets." He argued that since space rocks impact the Earth on a regular basis, "an alien might assume that any intelligent observer on Earth must be familiar" with them. He then went on to point at "terrestrial comet expert" Chris Lintott of Oxford, who called his "alien spaceship" theory &nbsp;"nonsense on stilts", to say, that aliens who come across someone who dismisses the idea, will "justifiably conclude that humans failed the test and do not deserve a high status in the class of intelligent civilizations within the Milky-Way galaxy." Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/harvard-scientist-calls-on-world-leaders-to-prepare-common-plan-on-alien-attack-1755064546960">3I/ATLAS and its 'intent': Harvard scientist calls on world leaders to prepare for an alien attack</a>&nbsp;<h2>Why Loeb thinks 3I/ATLAS could be an alien ship</h2>Loeb has presented several arguments to claim that 3I/ATLAS is not a natural occurrence, and there is a high chance that it is a probe sent by an advanced alien civilisation. He thinks that astronomers across the world who have quickly labelled it a comet have missed out on the crucial clues that it is hiding. Loeb cited Hubble telescope images to state that even though the object has a "glow" ahead of it, it doesn't have a tail, as is common with comets. He added in a blog post that there is "no evidence for a bright cometary tail in the opposite direction." While astronomers think that this shows that the dust was evaporating from the object's Sun-facing side. However, Loeb claims the object is creating its own light. He wrote that it is a "spacecraft powered by nuclear energy, and the dust emitted from its frontal surface might be from dirt that accumulated on its surface during its interstellar travel." Also Read: A<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/alien-attack-in-november-harvard-scientist-flags-mysterious-object-hurtling-towards-earth-1753526257304">lien attack in November? Harvard scientists warn mysterious object hurtling towards Earth</a>&nbsp;Loeb has suggested a way to approach the "spacecraft" - send a Morse code message to 3I/ATLAS, and wait for a response. He told reporters the exact message humans should send to the aliens - "Hello, welcome to our neighbourhood. Peace!"

 Mysterious interstellar object 3I/ATLAS is here to test human intelligence, Harvard scientist Avi Loeb has claimed. He says if we are not able to comprehend how it could be different from a space rock, then we do not deserve a place “in the class of intelligent civilisations.” 

Harvard scientist Avi Loeb has claimed that the interstellar object 3I/ATLAS hurtling towards the inner solar system is an alien spaceship sent by an advanced civilisation. Other astronomers agree that it is a comet, but Loeb has proposed his alternate theory, one that has been dismissed by almost every other expert. This could have flagged humans as undeserving of a "high status in the class of intelligent civilisations within the Milky Way galaxy." Loeb has now claimed that the probe is something like a Turing Test for humanity. He says that anyone who dismisses the object as a space rock could have failed the test in the eyes of an extraterrestrial being. Interstellar object 3I/ATLAS is only the third visitor to our solar system from outer space. Also Read: Baba Vanga Predicted Alien Contact In 2025. Is Interstellar 'Mothership' Hurtling Towards Earth Them Reaching Out? Also Read: Scientist reveals HOW and WHEN alien 'mothership' could attack Earth, warns governments to take action Interstellar ‘mothership’ is here to test human intelligence: Loeb In a new blog post, Loeb explained what the aliens could be trying to do with the "mothership" they have sent to the solar system. He wrote, "It is well known to any interstellar traveller that there are plenty of icy rocks in planetary systems. These constitute the leftover building blocks from the construction process of the planets." He argued that since space rocks impact the Earth on a regular basis, "an alien might assume that any intelligent observer on Earth must be familiar" with them. He then went on to point at "terrestrial comet expert" Chris Lintott of Oxford, who called his "alien spaceship" theory "nonsense on stilts", to say, that aliens who come across someone who dismisses the idea, will "justifiably conclude that humans failed the test and do not deserve a high status in the class of intelligent civilizations within the Milky-Way galaxy." Also Read: 3I/ATLAS and its 'intent': Harvard scientist calls on world leaders to prepare for an alien attack Why Loeb thinks 3I/ATLAS could be an alien ship Loeb has presented several arguments to claim that 3I/ATLAS is not a natural occurrence, and there is a high chance that it is a probe sent by an advanced alien civilisation. He thinks that astronomers across the world who have quickly labelled it a comet have missed out on the crucial clues that it is hiding. Loeb cited Hubble telescope images to state that even though the object has a "glow" ahead of it, it doesn't have a tail, as is common with comets. He added in a blog post that there is "no evidence for a bright cometary tail in the opposite direction." While astronomers think that this shows that the dust was evaporating from the object's Sun-facing side. However, Loeb claims the object is creating its own light. He wrote that it is a "spacecraft powered by nuclear energy, and the dust emitted from its frontal surface might be from dirt that accumulated on its surface during its interstellar travel." Also Read: Alien attack in November? Harvard scientists warn mysterious object hurtling towards Earth Loeb has suggested a way to approach the "spacecraft" - send a Morse code message to 3I/ATLAS, and wait for a response. He told reporters the exact message humans should send to the aliens - "Hello, welcome to our neighbourhood. Peace!"

&nbsp;Mysterious interstellar object 3I/ATLAS is here to test human intelligence, Harvard scientist Avi Loeb has claimed. He says if we are not able to comprehend how it could be different from a space rock, then we do not deserve a place “in the class of intelligent civilisations.”&nbsp;

Scientist claims mystery interstellar object is here to test human intelligence, and we have already failed. Here's why

A Pacific expedition is being planned by a prominent Harvard physicist to find what he believes to be an alien artefact which has fallen from space into the ocean.

Physicist Avi Loeb announced that an ocean expedition worth $1.5 million to Papua New Guinea is being organised by him in search of fragments of an object which crashed off the coast of the country's Manus Island in 2014.

The object was noticed by Loeb in 2019 and it was identified as the first ever discovered interstellar meteor, which means its origin lies outside our solar system.

As per Loeb, the interstellar origin of the meteor was confirmed to NASA by the Department of Defence’s space command in April 2022.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/aliens-on-distant-exoplanets-scientists-say-terminator-zones-could-harbour-life-573183">Aliens on distant exoplanets? Scientists say ‘terminator zones’ could harbour life</a>

Loeb and his team also reached the conclusion that the meteor was tougher compared to all other 272 meteors listed in the Centre for Near Earth Object Studies catalogue of NASA.

“Intrigued by this conclusion, I established a team that designed a two-week expedition to search for the meteor fragments at a depth of 1.7km on the ocean floor. Analysing the composition of the fragments could allow us to determine whether the object is natural or artificial in origin,” wrote Loeb in a post on Medium.

“We have a boat. We have a dream team, including some of the most experienced and qualified professionals in ocean expeditions. We have complete design and manufacturing plans for the required sledge, magnets, collection nets and mass spectrometer,” he further stated.

As per Loeb, there is a possibility that the meteor is tough “because they are artificial in origin…launched a billion years ago from a distant technological civilisation.”

WATCH | Is an alien looking at us from Mars?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/is-an-alien-looking-at-us-from-mars-488132/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A ship with a magnetic sledge is expected to be used for the ocean expedition. The team will include seven sledge operations along with a scientific team.

“We will tow a sledge mounted with magnets, cameras and lights on the ocean floor inside of a 10km×10km search box. A number of sources have been used to narrow the search site to this relatively small search box,” wrote Loeb and his team.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>. 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

A Pacific expedition is being planned by a prominent Harvard physicist to find what he believes to be an alien artefact which has fallen from space into the ocean.

A Pacific expedition is being planned by a prominent Harvard physicist to find what he believes to be an alien artefact which has fallen from space into the ocean. Physicist Avi Loeb announced that an ocean expedition worth $1.5 million to Papua New Guinea is being organised by him in search of fragments of an object which crashed off the coast of the country's Manus Island in 2014. The object was noticed by Loeb in 2019 and it was identified as the first ever discovered interstellar meteor, which means its origin lies outside our solar system. As per Loeb, the interstellar origin of the meteor was confirmed to NASA by the Department of Defence’s space command in April 2022. ALSO READ | Aliens on distant exoplanets? Scientists say ‘terminator zones’ could harbour life Loeb and his team also reached the conclusion that the meteor was tougher compared to all other 272 meteors listed in the Centre for Near Earth Object Studies catalogue of NASA. “Intrigued by this conclusion, I established a team that designed a two-week expedition to search for the meteor fragments at a depth of 1.7km on the ocean floor. Analysing the composition of the fragments could allow us to determine whether the object is natural or artificial in origin,” wrote Loeb in a post on Medium. “We have a boat. We have a dream team, including some of the most experienced and qualified professionals in ocean expeditions. We have complete design and manufacturing plans for the required sledge, magnets, collection nets and mass spectrometer,” he further stated. As per Loeb, there is a possibility that the meteor is tough “because they are artificial in origin…launched a billion years ago from a distant technological civilisation.” WATCH | Is an alien looking at us from Mars? A ship with a magnetic sledge is expected to be used for the ocean expedition. The team will include seven sledge operations along with a scientific team. “We will tow a sledge mounted with magnets, cameras and lights on the ocean floor inside of a 10km×10km search box. A number of sources have been used to narrow the search site to this relatively small search box,” wrote Loeb and his team. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Harvard physicist in search for ‘alien artefact’ that fell from space

Scientists have launched an undersea expedition to trace and collect the pieces of the first known&nbsp;interstellar object&nbsp;that hit Earth in 2014, reports Science Alert. The said object had crashed into the ocean just off the coast of Papua New Guinea.

Examples of Interstellar objects are asteroids,&nbsp;comets, or rogue planets that are not gravitationally bound to a star.

The data at the time revealed that the object was a meteorite. Dubbed CNEOS 2014-01-08, the object is believed to have measured about a half-meter wide, and its potentially interstellar origins were first recognised by then graduate student Amir Siraj and Harvard professor Avi Loeb.

The data they collected at the time indicated that it could be an interstellar object—the first known to hit Earth and the third ever recorded. &nbsp;The other two interstellar objects recorded are Oumuamua and Borisov.

Siraj and Loeb had concluded that CNEOS 2014-01-08 might be from beyond our Solar System due to its unusually high heliocentric velocity, meaning it was moving at speeds that suggest it may not be bound within the Sun's gravity.

However, the problem in 2014 was that the data used to measure the object's impact which would confirm whether it is an interstellar object came from a US Department of Defense spy satellite. As a result, the details of the object were carefully guarded.

Therefore, a paper by Siraj and Loeb has remained unpublished and not peer-reviewed.

But this year in March, US Space Force's Space Operations Command's chief scientist Joel Mozer reviewed the classified data and confirmed that the “velocity estimate reported to NASA&nbsp;is sufficiently accurate to indicate an interstellar trajectory”.

US Space Force lieutenant general&nbsp;John Shaw signed the letter confirming the interstellar object.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
5/ From the <a href="https://twitter.com/AsteroidWatch?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AsteroidWatch</a> tabletop exercise earlier this year, we learned that as long as the simulated asteroid was in the space domain, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USSPACECOM?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USSPACECOM</a> was the supported combatant command within the <a href="https://twitter.com/DeptofDefense?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DeptofDefense</a>.
— U.S. Space Command (@US_SpaceCom) <a href="https://twitter.com/US_SpaceCom/status/1511854933665931265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

However, tracing the remnants of the meteorite is likely to throw up some challenges as it might burned up during its descent into Earth's atmosphere, likely leaving only fragments behind, scattered across the ocean floor.

Hence, the expedition team would be likely carrying a large magnet connected to a trawling ship to pick up the pieces.

In an interview for Universe Today last year, Loeb said that the expedition would give the scientific community the chance “to actually put our hands on the relic and figure out whether it’s natural, whether it’s a rock, or whether, you know, a small fraction of those [interstellar objects] might be artificial.”

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Scientists have launched an undersea expedition to trace and collect the pieces of the first known interstellar object that hit Earth in 2014, reports Science Alert.

Scientists have launched an undersea expedition to trace and collect the pieces of the first known interstellar object that hit Earth in 2014, reports Science Alert. The said object had crashed into the ocean just off the coast of Papua New Guinea. Examples of Interstellar objects are asteroids, comets, or rogue planets that are not gravitationally bound to a star. The data at the time revealed that the object was a meteorite. Dubbed CNEOS 2014-01-08, the object is believed to have measured about a half-meter wide, and its potentially interstellar origins were first recognised by then graduate student Amir Siraj and Harvard professor Avi Loeb. The data they collected at the time indicated that it could be an interstellar object—the first known to hit Earth and the third ever recorded. The other two interstellar objects recorded are Oumuamua and Borisov. Siraj and Loeb had concluded that CNEOS 2014-01-08 might be from beyond our Solar System due to its unusually high heliocentric velocity, meaning it was moving at speeds that suggest it may not be bound within the Sun's gravity. However, the problem in 2014 was that the data used to measure the object's impact which would confirm whether it is an interstellar object came from a US Department of Defense spy satellite. As a result, the details of the object were carefully guarded. Therefore, a paper by Siraj and Loeb has remained unpublished and not peer-reviewed. But this year in March, US Space Force's Space Operations Command's chief scientist Joel Mozer reviewed the classified data and confirmed that the “velocity estimate reported to NASA is sufficiently accurate to indicate an interstellar trajectory”. US Space Force lieutenant general John Shaw signed the letter confirming the interstellar object. 5/ From the @AsteroidWatch tabletop exercise earlier this year, we learned that as long as the simulated asteroid was in the space domain, #USSPACECOM was the supported combatant command within the @DeptofDefense. — U.S. Space Command (@US_SpaceCom) April 6, 2022 × However, tracing the remnants of the meteorite is likely to throw up some challenges as it might burned up during its descent into Earth's atmosphere, likely leaving only fragments behind, scattered across the ocean floor. Hence, the expedition team would be likely carrying a large magnet connected to a trawling ship to pick up the pieces. In an interview for Universe Today last year, Loeb said that the expedition would give the scientific community the chance “to actually put our hands on the relic and figure out whether it’s natural, whether it’s a rock, or whether, you know, a small fraction of those [interstellar objects] might be artificial.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Scientists to search ocean for interstellar object that hit Earth in 2014

A Harvard scientist wants to investigate a meteor that is said to be an alien technology and currently lying at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean.&nbsp;

Last week, a document released by the United States Space Command (USSC) stated that researchers discovered the first known interstellar meteor to ever hit Earth.&nbsp;

As per the document released by US Space Command, the officials noted that a meteor that made an impact on Earth on January 8, 2014, was an interstellar object.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-insight-lander-captures-images-of-sunrise-on-mars-473049">NASA InSight lander captures images of sunrise on Mars</a>

The object, measuring just 1.5 feet across, is named CNEOS 2014-01-08. Researchers noted that it crash-landed along the northeast coast of Papua New Guinea.&nbsp;

In the latest development, Harvard astrophysicist Avi Loeb claimed that the object is apparently a piece of alien technology. "Our discovery of an interstellar meteor heralds a new research frontier," Loeb wrote in The Debrief.&nbsp;

"The fundamental question is whether any interstellar meteor might indicate a composition that is unambiguously artificial in origin. Better still, perhaps some technological components would survive the impact," he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/check-out-this-nasa-hubble-image-of-five-colliding-galaxies-473038">Check out this fantastic Hubble image of five colliding galaxies</a>

Significantly, Professor Loeb spent decades studying astronomy and reportedly he is probing the possibility that life exists beyond Earth.&nbsp;

As reported by Daily Mail, he suggested that the object can be investigated by taking it out using a magnet in order to examine it. He added that retrieving the object could be an opportunity to fulfil a lifelong dream of getting his hands on alien technology.&nbsp;

"My dream is to press some buttons on a functional piece of equipment that was manufactured outside of Earth," Loeb also wrote.&nbsp;

The document released by USSC noted that the velocity and trajectory of the meteor suggested the space rock was apparently from deep space, meaning the extrasolar in origin.&nbsp;

The paper also mentioned that this discovery will help enable a new method for studying the composition of interstellar objects. The new method will be based on spectroscopy of their gaseous debris as they burn up in the Earth's atmosphere.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Deadly coral disease grips Florida coast, efforts on to restore damaged reef

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/deadly-coral-disease-grips-florida-coast-efforts-on-to-restore-damaged-reef-473064/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

A Harvard scientist wants to investigate a meteor that is said to be an alien technology and currently lying at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean. Last week, a document released by the United States Space Command (USSC) stated that researchers discovered the first known interstellar meteor to ever hit Earth.

A Harvard scientist wants to investigate a meteor that is said to be an alien technology and currently lying at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean. Last week, a document released by the United States Space Command (USSC) stated that researchers discovered the first known interstellar meteor to ever hit Earth. As per the document released by US Space Command, the officials noted that a meteor that made an impact on Earth on January 8, 2014, was an interstellar object. ALSO READ | NASA InSight lander captures images of sunrise on Mars The object, measuring just 1.5 feet across, is named CNEOS 2014-01-08. Researchers noted that it crash-landed along the northeast coast of Papua New Guinea. In the latest development, Harvard astrophysicist Avi Loeb claimed that the object is apparently a piece of alien technology. "Our discovery of an interstellar meteor heralds a new research frontier," Loeb wrote in The Debrief. "The fundamental question is whether any interstellar meteor might indicate a composition that is unambiguously artificial in origin. Better still, perhaps some technological components would survive the impact," he added. ALSO READ | Check out this fantastic Hubble image of five colliding galaxies Significantly, Professor Loeb spent decades studying astronomy and reportedly he is probing the possibility that life exists beyond Earth. As reported by Daily Mail, he suggested that the object can be investigated by taking it out using a magnet in order to examine it. He added that retrieving the object could be an opportunity to fulfil a lifelong dream of getting his hands on alien technology. "My dream is to press some buttons on a functional piece of equipment that was manufactured outside of Earth," Loeb also wrote. The document released by USSC noted that the velocity and trajectory of the meteor suggested the space rock was apparently from deep space, meaning the extrasolar in origin. The paper also mentioned that this discovery will help enable a new method for studying the composition of interstellar objects. The new method will be based on spectroscopy of their gaseous debris as they burn up in the Earth's atmosphere. WATCH | Deadly coral disease grips Florida coast, efforts on to restore damaged reef ×

Presence of alien tech on Earth? Scientist wants to probe interstellar object 'lying in the Pacific Ocean'

The universe holds secrets we’re not completely programmed to understand. But humanity is always at the cusp of a breakthrough when it comes to knowledge accumulation and the new 3D map of our solar system proves just that!

Ever thought about what lies at the edge of our very own solar system? Turns out, it’s a blob!&nbsp;

What's the edge of our solar system?

The edge of our system is where cosmic forces collide. On one edge lies solar wind comprising charged particles that emanate from the Sun. On the other side lie winds of space, laden with radiation absorbed from billions of stars situated nearby.

Solar winds or flares cause blackouts on Earth every once in a while but otherwise do an excellent job of protecting the planet from space radiation.

According to LiveScience, the solar winds wrap our solar system in a protective layer, preventing 70 per cent of space radiation from entering our system. Earth’s own magnetic shield does the job of protecting us from the leftover radiation.

This protective layer is called the heliosphere and its edge is called heliopause. At this junction lies a physical border where our solar system ends and the outside space begins.&nbsp;

What does the 3D map reveal?

On June 10, a new study in the Astrophysical Journal revealed the first 3D map of the heliosphere ever.

To achieve this, scientists used data collected by NASA’s Interstellar Boundary Explorer satellite over 10 years. Using this, they tracked particles in solar winds that travel from the Sun to the edge of solar system and back.

Based on this, they calculated how far the solar wind was able to go before being blown back by interstellar radiation. This allowed the researchers to map the edges of our solar system.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/we-finally-know-what-causes-mesmerising-auroras-in-polar-night-skies-393085" hreflang="en">We finally know what causes mesmerising auroras in polar night skies!</a>

The map shows how the heliosphere isn’t really a sphere, but a squishy looking blob-like entity with inconsistent borders. In one end the border is thick while it is extremely thin on the other side.

This is because the Sun is also locked in orbit at the centre of the Milky Way, akin to Earth’s orbit around Sun. In one direction, the Sun has more scope of pushing out solar winds that counter interstellar radiation, explaining the inconsistency of the border.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/indian-scientists-discover-four-near-earth-asteroids-in-nasa-backed-research-programme-393060" hreflang="en">Indian scientists discover four near-Earth asteroids in NASA-backed research programme</a>

The universe holds secrets we’re not completely programmed to understand. But humanity is always at the cusp of a breakthrough when it comes to knowledge accumulation and the new 3D map of our solar system proves just that!

The universe holds secrets we’re not completely programmed to understand. But humanity is always at the cusp of a breakthrough when it comes to knowledge accumulation and the new 3D map of our solar system proves just that! Ever thought about what lies at the edge of our very own solar system? Turns out, it’s a blob! What's the edge of our solar system? The edge of our system is where cosmic forces collide. On one edge lies solar wind comprising charged particles that emanate from the Sun. On the other side lie winds of space, laden with radiation absorbed from billions of stars situated nearby. Solar winds or flares cause blackouts on Earth every once in a while but otherwise do an excellent job of protecting the planet from space radiation. According to LiveScience, the solar winds wrap our solar system in a protective layer, preventing 70 per cent of space radiation from entering our system. Earth’s own magnetic shield does the job of protecting us from the leftover radiation. This protective layer is called the heliosphere and its edge is called heliopause. At this junction lies a physical border where our solar system ends and the outside space begins. What does the 3D map reveal? On June 10, a new study in the Astrophysical Journal revealed the first 3D map of the heliosphere ever. To achieve this, scientists used data collected by NASA’s Interstellar Boundary Explorer satellite over 10 years. Using this, they tracked particles in solar winds that travel from the Sun to the edge of solar system and back. Based on this, they calculated how far the solar wind was able to go before being blown back by interstellar radiation. This allowed the researchers to map the edges of our solar system. Also read: We finally know what causes mesmerising auroras in polar night skies! The map shows how the heliosphere isn’t really a sphere, but a squishy looking blob-like entity with inconsistent borders. In one end the border is thick while it is extremely thin on the other side. This is because the Sun is also locked in orbit at the centre of the Milky Way, akin to Earth’s orbit around Sun. In one direction, the Sun has more scope of pushing out solar winds that counter interstellar radiation, explaining the inconsistency of the border. Also read: Indian scientists discover four near-Earth asteroids in NASA-backed research programme

In a first, new 3D map reveals details about the edge of our solar system

Astronomers have detected&nbsp;how many interstellar objects may be visiting our solar system, in a recent study.

The research conducted by Cornell University shows interstellar objects (ISOs) passing through the solar system can be directly observed by Earth-based telescopes and potentially explored at close range by spacecraft.

The aim of the study was to find&nbsp;additional ISOs and planning missions to intercept or rendezvous with these bodies will greatly benefit from the knowledge of their likely orbits and arrival rates.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/occams-razor-harvard-astronomer-says-that-alien-vessel-paid-us-a-visit-362060">'Occam's razor': Harvard astronomer says that alien vessel paid us a visit</a>

&nbsp;

The feasibility of reaching interstellar objects passing through the solar system has been assessed with specific missions to the interstellar objects 1I/’Oumuamua and 2I/Borisov,&nbsp;&nbsp;the first InterStellar Objects (ISOs) discovered passing through the solar system.

Observations made with the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope and others show that the object is moving faster than predicted while leaving the Solar System.

Researchers assume that venting material from its surface due to solar heating is responsible for this behaviour. This outgassing can be seen in this artist’s impression as a subtle cloud being ejected from the side of the object facing the Sun. As outgassing is a behaviour typical for comets, the team thinks that `Oumuamua’s previous classification as an interstellar asteroid has to be corrected.

Such missions are feasible with more massive spacecraft (100 kg or larger) using existing rockets and technologies either if they can be initiated around the time of perihelion passage, for example, by a Comet Interceptor type mission or by using a combination of planetary flybys and solar Oberth manoeuvres (rocket accelerations at high speed close to the Sun) to overtake the ISO as it retreats from the Sun.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-identify-surprising-similarities-between-humans-and-strange-creatures-from-550-million-years-ago-369169" hreflang="en">Scientists identify surprising similarities between humans and strange creatures from 550 million years ago</a>

Marshall Eubanks, the lead author of the study said&nbsp;"[J]ust by proving that they exist, it has had a profound impact, creating a field of study almost from nothing (a field that funding authorities are just beginning to recognize).''

He added, ''Interstellar Objects provide us with the opportunity to study, and in the future literally touch, exobodies decades before the earliest possible missions to even the nearest stars, such as Proxima Centauri."

As per the study, led by researchers from the Initiative for Interstellar Studies (i4is), roughly seven ISOs enter our Solar System every year and follow predictable orbits while they visit the Earth.

The study of 'Oumuamua in October of 2017 was not only was this an object that had formed in another star system, but its arrival and detection implied a large population of such objects.

The detection of 2I/Borisov in 2019 confirmed that ISOs enter our Solar System on a pretty regular basis.

Asteroid surveys may have a streak limit, a limit on the acceptance of fast-moving small objects, in order to reduce confusion with terrestrial satellites.

Interstellar objects likely formed very far from the solar system in both time and space; their direct exploration will constrain the formation and history of small bodies, situating them within the dynamical assembly and chemical evolution of the Galaxy. The velocities of many of these objects in the solar system will make their detection and their exploration by spacecraft challenging, but not impossible with present and near-future technology.

If the number of density estimates based on the discovery of 1I/’Oumuamua are even approximately correct, there should be a number of 1I-type interstellar objects in the solar system at any one time.

Even a fast flyby of an ISO passing through the solar system would be scientifically very rewarding, especially if the object can be subjected to the analysis of impact signatures.

Unfortunately, 2I-type interstellar comets appear to be much rarer, which a much smaller infall rate, and will probably be a once in a decade phenomena.

Astronomers have detected how many interstellar objects may be visiting our solar system, in a recent study. The research conducted by Cornell University shows interstellar objects (ISOs) passing through the solar system can be directly observed by Earth-based telescopes and potentially explored at close range by spacecraft.

Astronomers have detected how many interstellar objects may be visiting our solar system, in a recent study. The research conducted by Cornell University shows interstellar objects (ISOs) passing through the solar system can be directly observed by Earth-based telescopes and potentially explored at close range by spacecraft. The aim of the study was to find additional ISOs and planning missions to intercept or rendezvous with these bodies will greatly benefit from the knowledge of their likely orbits and arrival rates. Also read| 'Occam's razor': Harvard astronomer says that alien vessel paid us a visit The feasibility of reaching interstellar objects passing through the solar system has been assessed with specific missions to the interstellar objects 1I/’Oumuamua and 2I/Borisov, the first InterStellar Objects (ISOs) discovered passing through the solar system. Observations made with the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope and others show that the object is moving faster than predicted while leaving the Solar System. Researchers assume that venting material from its surface due to solar heating is responsible for this behaviour. This outgassing can be seen in this artist’s impression as a subtle cloud being ejected from the side of the object facing the Sun. As outgassing is a behaviour typical for comets, the team thinks that `Oumuamua’s previous classification as an interstellar asteroid has to be corrected. Such missions are feasible with more massive spacecraft (100 kg or larger) using existing rockets and technologies either if they can be initiated around the time of perihelion passage, for example, by a Comet Interceptor type mission or by using a combination of planetary flybys and solar Oberth manoeuvres (rocket accelerations at high speed close to the Sun) to overtake the ISO as it retreats from the Sun. Also read: Scientists identify surprising similarities between humans and strange creatures from 550 million years ago Marshall Eubanks, the lead author of the study said "[J]ust by proving that they exist, it has had a profound impact, creating a field of study almost from nothing (a field that funding authorities are just beginning to recognize).'' He added, ''Interstellar Objects provide us with the opportunity to study, and in the future literally touch, exobodies decades before the earliest possible missions to even the nearest stars, such as Proxima Centauri." As per the study, led by researchers from the Initiative for Interstellar Studies (i4is), roughly seven ISOs enter our Solar System every year and follow predictable orbits while they visit the Earth. The study of 'Oumuamua in October of 2017 was not only was this an object that had formed in another star system, but its arrival and detection implied a large population of such objects. The detection of 2I/Borisov in 2019 confirmed that ISOs enter our Solar System on a pretty regular basis. Asteroid surveys may have a streak limit, a limit on the acceptance of fast-moving small objects, in order to reduce confusion with terrestrial satellites. Interstellar objects likely formed very far from the solar system in both time and space; their direct exploration will constrain the formation and history of small bodies, situating them within the dynamical assembly and chemical evolution of the Galaxy. The velocities of many of these objects in the solar system will make their detection and their exploration by spacecraft challenging, but not impossible with present and near-future technology. If the number of density estimates based on the discovery of 1I/’Oumuamua are even approximately correct, there should be a number of 1I-type interstellar objects in the solar system at any one time. Even a fast flyby of an ISO passing through the solar system would be scientifically very rewarding, especially if the object can be subjected to the analysis of impact signatures. Unfortunately, 2I-type interstellar comets appear to be much rarer, which a much smaller infall rate, and will probably be a once in a decade phenomena.

Astronomers detect how many interstellar objects may be visiting our solar system

When astronomers first spied a mysterious&nbsp;cigar-shaped object speeding past the sun&nbsp;last October, they could tell from its path that it had come from another star system but they didn't know exactly what it was.

<p content="When it flew past our sun, the world marvelled over its elongated, cigar-shaped body which&lt;a href=&quot;https://uk.news.yahoo.com/oumuamua-oh-interstellar-object-actually-225825249.html&quot;&gt; some scientists initially suggested might be an alien probe&lt;/a&gt;.&amp;nbsp;" data-reactid="24" type="text">The space rock&nbsp;named 'Oumuamua'&nbsp;was the first known&nbsp;interstellar object to visit our solar system, and made headlines around the world in 2017.

A study published on Wednesday in the journal Nature indicates that the interstellar visitor, dubbed Oumuamua, is neither an asteroid nor an&nbsp;alien spacecraft&nbsp;&nbsp;but a small interstellar comet also known as&nbsp;a hydrogen iceberg.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unique-cigar-shaped-object-is-first-interstellar-asteroid-24734">Unique cigar-shaped object is first interstellar asteroid</a>

<p content="What’s more, there might be many more of them out there, forming in the dense cores of molecular clouds throughout our Milky Way galaxy, the researchers suggest.&amp;nbsp;" data-reactid="26" type="text">What’s more, there might be many more of them out there, forming in the dense cores of molecular clouds throughout our Milky Way galaxy, the researchers suggest.&nbsp;

<p content="The researchers believe that the idea that it’s a block of hydrogen ice could explain many of the weird properties that led scientists to label it a possible alien spacecraft.&amp;nbsp;" data-reactid="29" type="text">The researchers believe that the idea that it’s a block of hydrogen ice could explain many of the weird properties that led scientists to label it a possible alien spacecraft.&nbsp;

Professor Gregory Laughlin of Yale said, “We developed a theory that explains all of ‘Oumuamua’s weird properties.&nbsp;

“We show that it was likely composed of hydrogen ice. This is a new type of object, but it looks like there may be many more of them showing up, going forward.”

<p content="Researchers at the University of Hawaii first discovered ‘Oumuamua in 2017, but as ‘Oumuamua hurtled through the inner part of the solar system, astronomers noticed it had several unusual properties.&amp;nbsp;" data-reactid="32" type="text">Researchers at the University of Hawaii first discovered ‘Oumuamua in 2017, but as ‘Oumuamua hurtled through the inner part of the solar system, astronomers noticed it had several unusual properties.&nbsp;

When astronomers first spied a mysterious cigar-shaped object speeding past the sun last October, they could tell from its path that it had come from another star system but they didn't know exactly what it was.

When astronomers first spied a mysterious cigar-shaped object speeding past the sun last October, they could tell from its path that it had come from another star system but they didn't know exactly what it was. The space rock named 'Oumuamua' was the first known interstellar object to visit our solar system, and made headlines around the world in 2017. A study published on Wednesday in the journal Nature indicates that the interstellar visitor, dubbed Oumuamua, is neither an asteroid nor an alien spacecraft but a small interstellar comet also known as a hydrogen iceberg. Also read: Unique cigar-shaped object is first interstellar asteroid What’s more, there might be many more of them out there, forming in the dense cores of molecular clouds throughout our Milky Way galaxy, the researchers suggest. The researchers believe that the idea that it’s a block of hydrogen ice could explain many of the weird properties that led scientists to label it a possible alien spacecraft. Professor Gregory Laughlin of Yale said, “We developed a theory that explains all of ‘Oumuamua’s weird properties. “We show that it was likely composed of hydrogen ice. This is a new type of object, but it looks like there may be many more of them showing up, going forward.” Researchers at the University of Hawaii first discovered ‘Oumuamua in 2017, but as ‘Oumuamua hurtled through the inner part of the solar system, astronomers noticed it had several unusual properties.

New theory finally identifies mysterious 'cigar' asteroid