
A mysterious interstellar object named 3I/ATLAS entered the solar system in mid-2025. Astronomers across the world noticed its unusual path and lack of a visible tail. That odd behaviour made scientists question whether it was a natural 3I/ATLAS comet or a piece of alien technology.
Loeb said he would feel relieved if 3I/ATLAS turned out to be a simple icy rock, as that would mean no risk to humanity. Yet he also suggested that if it proved artificial, it could still benefit humankind in major ways.