What Is 3I Atlas and Why Is It So Mysterious?

Last summer, astronomers discovered '3I Atlas,' only the third confirmed interstellar object to enter our solar system. Its discovery alone is significant, suggesting such objects may be less rare than previously thought. This object is unusual because it travels on the same plane as Earth's orbit, unlike the expected steep angles of most interstellar visitors. Its brightness and lack of visible outgassing have led astronomer Avi Loeb to hypothesize it could be artificial. This has sparked a major scientific debate, with most other astronomers rejecting the idea and attributing its strange features to natural causes. The controversy intensified when a journalist criticized Loeb's theory, prompting a strong, public rebuttal. Further complicating the mystery, new data reveals the object is releasing strange metals, specifically an extreme ratio of nickel to iron, which researchers find extremely puzzling. Loeb continues to advocate for more observation, arguing the possibility of an artificial origin should not be ruled out.