Astronomers and social media users have been debating the newly discovered interstellar object 3I/ATLAS after viral videos claimed it was moving in unusual ways through the Solar System. The discussion intensified after clips shared on TikTok suggested scientists were 'baffled' by the object becoming brighter following its close approach to the Sun.
The claims quickly fuelled online speculation that the object could be artificial or linked to extraterrestrial activity, with some users suggesting the increased luminosity was a form of 'signal' or propulsion system. However, astronomers and space researchers have not presented any evidence supporting theories involving alien technology or artificial spacecraft.
