Astronomers Observe Interstellar Comet (3I/ATLAS) but Find No Evidence of Extraterrestrial Signals

A team of astronomers conducted detailed observations of the interstellar comet (3I/ATLAS) using the Green Bank radio telescope, aiming to detect any unusual signals that could suggest the presence of non-Earth intelligent technology. However, the findings did not yield conclusive evidence for such phenomena.

According to a report from Science Alert, the Breakthrough Listen project team employed one of the world’s most sensitive radio telescopes, with a diameter of 100 meters, to monitor the comet for several hours as it approached its closest point to Earth on December 19, 2025.

The scientists focused on identifying “artificial technical signatures” across a broad spectrum of radio frequencies. While several signals were detected during the observation, further analysis indicated that these signals did not originate from the comet itself but were likely the result of interference from human-made sources.

Discovered on July 1, 2025, comet (3I/ATLAS) is notable for its trajectory, which confirms its interstellar origin, generating significant scientific interest. It came within approximately 270 million kilometers of Earth, allowing for detailed observations with advanced equipment.

During the observation, the team utilized a systematic monitoring approach, alternating the telescope's focus between the comet and other regions of the sky to minimize unrelated signals. After refining the data, nine potential signals were identified; however, subsequent evaluations confirmed their terrestrial origins.

Despite the lack of evidence for extraterrestrial technology, scientists emphasized that this does not rule out the possibility of such technology existing elsewhere. They noted that the comet does not display characteristics of an artificial object or a means of intelligent communication.

NASA officials remarked that the comet behaves like a natural celestial body, and all available evidence supports this classification. Its interstellar origin, however, adds to its scientific significance.

Researchers involved in the study asserted that investigations, even those that do not lead to groundbreaking discoveries, play a crucial role in developing monitoring tools and enhancing our understanding of cosmic phenomena. They highlighted that “not finding anything” can itself yield valuable scientific insights.