New images show 3I/ATLAS does not have a tail

Interstellar Object Observation - New images of interstellar object Three Atlas show it does not have a noticeable cometary tail, contrary to expectations [2] - The object experienced non-gravitational acceleration and a change in color to blue, and became brighter by a factor of five [1][7] - On December 19th, Three Atlas will be closest to Earth [8] Scientific Analysis and Uncertainty - Harvard astronomer Avi Loeb notes the object should have a massive cloud of gas and dust based on comet knowledge [4] - The object was heated by 770 watts per square meter after passing perihelion [4] - Carbon dioxide sublimation should have caused disintegration or a dense gas and dust cloud [5] - One interpretation suggests ice fragments evaporate and vaporize before forming a visible plume [6] - The object's behavior defies expectations, leading to uncertainty about its nature [7][9] Speculation and Future Research - The key question is whether the object is natural or technological in origin [10] - If natural, understanding its origin environment is crucial [10] - Further data in the coming weeks, especially around December 19th, is anticipated [8] - The object challenges existing expert knowledge, highlighting the value of scientific inquiry [11][12]