Astronomers Stunned by 3I/ATLAS Comet’s Unexplained Twin Jets

The interstellar comet known as 3I/ATLAS has captivated astronomers with its unexpected twin jets, which extend straight and stable over millions of kilometres. This phenomenon challenges established understanding of comet behaviour and physics, as the jets appear defiant of the natural processes typically observed in such celestial bodies. Recent observations have revealed a series of anomalies that have left even seasoned scientists questioning their assumptions.

One of the leading voices in this discussion is Avi Loeb, an astrophysicist at Harvard University. He suggests that the peculiar characteristics of 3I/ATLAS may indicate it is more unusual—and potentially hazardous—than initially thought. This perspective arises from the comet’s jets, which are emitting gas and dust in tightly collimated streams that remain geometrically stable over time. Observations from various telescopes and spacecraft support this assertion, presenting a complex picture of the comet’s behaviour.

Unusual Observations and Data Analysis

On November 9, 2025, long-exposure images captured by multiple observatories indicated that the jets of 3I/ATLAS extend over distances greater than one million kilometres. Remarkably, these jets do not appear to smear as one would expect from a rotating comet nucleus, which typically leads to blurred emissions. Instead, the jets maintain a fixed alignment, defying conventional expectations of cometary behaviour.

An analysis of thermal-imaging data further highlighted concentric heat rings surrounding the comet’s nucleus, alongside a unique thermal envelope. These features have been described as “extraordinary anomalies,” suggesting that the mechanisms behind 3I/ATLAS may not align with traditional comet models. The stable jet alignment, despite the comet’s rotation period of approximately 16.16 hours, raises questions about the source of energy powering these emissions. Critics argue that solar radiation alone may not provide sufficient energy to cause the observed mass ejections.

While the physical observations present a compelling case for the uniqueness of 3I/ATLAS, spectroscopic data complicate the narrative. The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) found that the comet’s coma is predominantly composed of carbon dioxide (CO2), with measurable amounts of water (H2O), carbon monoxide (CO), and dust particles. This composition is typical for comets; however, the CO2/H2O mixing ratio of approximately 8.0 ± 1.0 is one of the highest recorded, suggesting a CO2-rich nucleus.

Ongoing Investigations and Challenges

Despite the intriguing discoveries, mainstream interpretations maintain that 3I/ATLAS is a natural comet, albeit an exceptional one. According to NASA, the comet exhibits behaviour characteristic of icy bodies releasing gas and dust as they approach the Sun. Yet, not all scientists are convinced. Loeb has consistently pointed out the discrepancies that challenge the notion of a purely natural object, emphasizing the need for further investigation.

Data from various missions, including the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter and the Hubble Space Telescope, are currently being analyzed to reconcile conflicting observations. Independent studies are calling attention to the persistent anomalies, with some researchers proposing targeted follow-up observations to measure jet velocities and mass flux, which could provide insights into whether these jets behave like sublimation plumes or engineered exhausts.

As scientists work to uncover the truth about 3I/ATLAS, they remain cautious. Comets, particularly those from interstellar origins, may exhibit behaviours not yet documented within the Solar System. While the discovery of 3I/ATLAS raises significant questions and challenges existing models, the default classification of the comet remains as a natural object until further evidence can decisively indicate otherwise.

The mysteries surrounding 3I/ATLAS continue to provoke thought and discussion within the scientific community, as astronomers strive to understand what this remarkable comet reveals about the universe.