Astronomers have discovered an interstellar comet, 3I/ATLAS, hurtling through the Solar System at nearly twice the speed of previous visitors. The comet, estimated to be around 5.6 kilometers in size, may originate from a different region of our galaxy and is potentially much older than any known body in our Solar System.
To study this comet, scientists suggest repurposing NASA’s Juno spacecraft to intercept it as it approaches Jupiter. An “Oberth Maneuver” would be performed by the spacecraft, increasing its speed and allowing it to fly by the comet. This maneuver could provide valuable insights into the nature of 3I/ATLAS.
However, there are concerns about the feasibility of this plan due to NASA’s reduced budget and staffing. The Juno spacecraft is set to end its mission in September 2025 or until its “end of life.” Additionally, claims from Harvard astronomer Avi Loeb suggest that the object could be an interstellar probe sent by an intelligent species, which may add complexity to any potential study.
Loeb’s hypothesis proposes that since resources are finite in the universe, lifeforms may want to pre-emptively attack other forms of life. According to his paper, 3I/ATLAS could be intentionally avoiding Earth-based observations when it is brightest or when signals are sent from its location.
While this plan raises hopes for a closer look at the comet, NASA’s current priorities include heading to Mars and managing reduced budgets. The discovery of 3I/ATLAS and potential study with Juno will require more information as more objects are observed and potentially studied with future spacecraft.
Source: https://www.iflscience.com/aging-nasa-spacecraft-could-intercept-the-interstellar-comet-on-the-other-side-of-the-sun-astronomers-suggest-80223