So, what happens next?
Not much. NASA says 3I/ATLAS is just passing through, and will eventually continue its journey into interstellar space – never to be seen again. Unless, of course, Loeb is right.
He’s suggested that if the object is some kind of engineered craft, it could reach Earth between November 21 and December 5.
Mark your calendars. Prepare your bunkers. Still, even Loeb admits the outcome might not be doom and gloom.
“It may come to save us or destroy us,” he said. “We’d better be ready for both options – and check whether all interstellar objects are rocks.”
Only time will tell…
