3I/ATLAS
Also known as: 3I ATLAS · 3i atlas · 3i-atlas · 31 atlas · atlas comet · interstellar comet
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3I/ATLAS is an interstellar comet, meaning it originated outside our solar system. First reported on July 1, 2025, it is the third interstellar object observed passing through our cosmic neighborhood, according to NASA. Activity from an icy nucleus and a surrounding coma of gas and dust identified it as a comet. The subject may also interest people who follow UFOs, but that is not evidence of an artificial origin.
NASA and the European Space Agency describe 3I/ATLAS as a natural comet that poses no threat to Earth. Interviews on this site with astrophysicist Avi Loeb discuss 3I/ATLAS, unexplained objects, and claims that NASA is withholding information. These are topics for discussion, not proof that the comet is extraterrestrial in origin.
This page brings together articles and interviews about 3I/ATLAS, its status as an interstellar object, and the debate surrounding it. The information distinguishes confirmed facts from claims and opinions.
Everything we've published on 3I/ATLAS
Common questions about 3I/ATLAS
What is 3I/ATLAS?
3I/ATLAS is an interstellar comet from beyond our solar system. It is the third confirmed object of its kind observed passing through our cosmic neighborhood.
Is 3I/ATLAS an alien spacecraft?
NASA and the European Space Agency describe it as a natural comet. The available facts do not point to an artificial or extraterrestrial origin.
Is 3I/ATLAS dangerous to Earth?
No. NASA said the object poses no threat to Earth and will remain at least 1.6 astronomical units away.
When and where was 3I/ATLAS discovered?
It was first reported on July 1, 2025, by the ATLAS survey telescope in Río Hurtado, Chile.
Why is 3I/ATLAS considered a comet?
Observations revealed an active icy nucleus and a surrounding coma of gas and dust. Astronomers identified the object as a comet based on these features.