Plasma Physicist Claims Visibility of 3I/ATLAS Interstellar Object

A significant development has emerged in the astronomical community regarding the interstellar object 3I/ATLAS. Renowned plasma physicist Dr. John Brandenburg has publicly asserted that 3I/ATLAS is visible, contrary to previous claims that it is obscured behind the Sun. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he stated, “Object 3I ATLAS had an apparent jet exhaust towards the Sun in September, producing a braking effect. This has now apparently reversed.” This assertion challenges earlier reports that suggested the object could not be seen from Earth due to its position behind the Sun.

Some sources maintained that “3I/ATLAS is behind the Sun from Earth … it can’t be seen in Earth’s sky” at present. Dr. Brandenburg’s comments imply that the dynamics of this comet-like object warrant further investigation. Discovered by the ATLAS survey, 3I/ATLAS is the third known interstellar object and has generated considerable scientific interest due to its unusual characteristics.

Unusual Activity and Anticipated Perihelion

Research shared in the article “Spying Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS Near Perihelion” highlights the peculiar trajectory, composition, and activity of 3I/ATLAS. Notably, the object appears to have exhibited activity much earlier than anticipated, with indications of volatile sublimation occurring at distances greater than what is typical for Solar System comets. Observers have noted a distinctive sunward ‘anti-tail’ plume, suggesting material is being ejected towards the Sun rather than away from it, which is atypical for a comet.

3I/ATLAS is expected to reach perihelion, its closest approach to the Sun, on October 29, 2025, at approximately 1.36 AU from the Sun. The revelation that it might already be visible has sparked debate among astronomers and enthusiasts alike. Some argue the object remains lost in solar glare, its light masked by the Sun’s brilliance, while others, following Dr. Brandenburg’s observations, suggest that its unique jet activity or plasma interactions may have made it detectable, at least with specialized instruments.

If this visibility claim is substantiated, it could indicate that 3I/ATLAS is behaving in unforeseen ways, potentially shedding more dust and gas than expected or even generating its own electromagnetic effects that could be observed with space-based telescopes. Such behavior would mark it as the first interstellar comet observed under near-solar conditions in real-time, adding to its already remarkable status.

Scientific Implications and Future Observations

The discussion surrounding 3I/ATLAS extends beyond simple visibility; it delves into how interstellar objects interact with solar radiation and magnetic fields. Dr. Brandenburg’s expertise in plasma physics lends credibility to his assertion that the object’s ‘apparent jet exhaust’ may have influenced its motion, making it temporarily more reflective or detectable. If indeed the brightness of 3I/ATLAS has increased due to such jet activity, it may suggest that its surface or composition includes materials highly sensitive to solar heat. This could result in powerful bursts of energy that might slightly alter its trajectory.

Astronomers at various institutions tracking 3I/ATLAS will be closely monitoring data from solar-tracking instruments to confirm these forces. As the object moves away from the Sun’s glare in the coming weeks, it should become easier to observe with both ground-based and orbital telescopes. This period will be crucial for assessing whether Dr. Brandenburg’s claim of visibility holds up under scientific scrutiny.

If images or spectroscopic readings confirm that 3I/ATLAS remained visible even during its conjunction with the Sun, it could significantly change how astronomers study near-solar phenomena and interstellar visitors. For now, the excitement lies in the uncertainty around this object. Whether it is seen through the Sun’s haze or emerging freshly from it, 3I/ATLAS continues to defy conventional expectations, ensuring its place at the forefront of one of astronomy’s most engaging discussions.