Comet 3I/Atlas doesn't need to be 'alien' to deserve a closer look, scientists say

By Katia Riddle

Published November 17, 2025 at 4:26 PM EST

There's a new celebrity in town and it's... a comet. Much of the attention has to do with an astrophysicist's grandiose suggestions that 3I/ATLAS could contain alien life. Other scientists disagree.

Katia Riddle

Katia Riddle is a correspondent at NPR covering mental health. She has reported extensively on the impact of events such as Hurricane Helene, Los Angeles wildfires and the loneliness epidemic. Prior to her current role, she covered public health including reproductive rights and homelessness. She won a 2024 Gracie Award for a series on reproductive rights.

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Comet 3I/Atlas doesn't need to be 'alien' to deserve a closer look, scientists say

Support quality journalism, like the story above, with your gift right now.

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