Astronomer Michio Kaku Challenges Claims About 3I/ATLAS Asteroid

Speculation surrounding the asteroid known as 3I/ATLAS has intensified following comments from renowned theoretical physicist Michio Kaku, who has dismissed claims that it may be an alien probe. Discovered on July 1, 2025, by the Asteroid Terrestrial-Impact Last Alert System (ATLAS), 3I/ATLAS has drawn attention due to its unusual orbit and physical characteristics.

Harvard astrophysicist Avi Loeb argues that the asteroid’s hyperbolic trajectory, proximity to the ecliptic plane, and absence of a conventional comet tail indicate it may be of technological origin. In his analysis, Loeb stated, “We shouldn’t assume anything, and we should assess the risk given the data that we have.” His assertions have ignited debate among scientists about the nature of this cosmic object.

In contrast, Kaku has cautioned against jumping to conclusions about extraterrestrial life. He has specifically criticized misleading media portrayals that suggest he supports the alien hypothesis. “These deceptive videos are based on misrepresented segments from real interviews,” Kaku explained, emphasizing the need for a more grounded approach to understanding 3I/ATLAS.

Kaku pointed out that the asteroid could be an ancient object, potentially around 7 billion years old. He noted that, over such an extensive timeframe, it is plausible for it to have accumulated debris. “While 3I/ATLAS may appear peculiar, its properties still fit within the range of known cosmic phenomena,” he stated during a recent televised interview.

The lack of a definitive comet-like tail initially raised questions among astronomers. A Hubble Space Telescope image taken on July 21, 2025, revealed only a faint glow, which failed to conform to expectations for a typical comet. However, subsequent observations have indicated the formation of a dust coma and tail as the asteroid approaches its perihelion, scheduled for December 19, 2025.

The orbit of 3I/ATLAS is indeed unusual, traveling at approximately 58 kilometers per second on a retrograde path inclined about five degrees to the ecliptic. Loeb’s team interprets this alignment as potentially ‘fine-tuned’ if it were artificial, yet the majority of space agencies, including NASA, maintain that the evidence points to an ordinary comet rather than a spacecraft.

Kaku’s perspective reinforces the importance of scientific caution amid sensational claims. He highlighted that the absence of propulsion signatures, radio emissions, or any signs of maneuverability undermines the theory of an artificial origin. As he noted, “Speculation must not outpace evidence,” cautioning against the tendency to sensationalize space mysteries.

As 3I/ATLAS approaches its perihelion on October 29, 2025, astronomers will closely monitor changes in its brightness and behavior. If it behaves like a typical comet—outgassing near the Sun, shedding dust, and displaying a tail—it would support the case for a natural origin. Conversely, any unexplained acceleration or signs of propulsion could reignite the debate over its potential artificial nature.

In conclusion, while the prospect of discovering alien technology captivates the public imagination, Kaku’s grounded perspective aligns with the mainstream astrophysical consensus that 3I/ATLAS is likely an ancient, non-technological interstellar object. As he aptly stated, the cosmos is mysterious enough without forcing aliens into every anomaly. The scientific community continues to advocate for rigorous investigation grounded in verifiable evidence.