← NewsAll
CIA declines to confirm 3I/ATLAS records amid 'alien ship' speculation
Summary
US intelligence used a Glomar response and would neither confirm nor deny holding records on 3I/ATLAS. Astronomers report the object shows a visible coma and tail and civilian space agency data indicate no signs of artificial origin.
Content
US intelligence declined to confirm or deny whether it holds records on 3I/ATLAS in response to a Freedom of Information Act request. The agency issued a Glomar response saying it could neither confirm nor deny the existence of responsive documents. Astronomers say 3I/ATLAS is only the third confirmed object observed entering the solar system from beyond interstellar space. Researchers report the object displays a visible coma and tail and that civilian space agency data show no indication it is artificial.
Key facts:
- The CIA issued a Glomar response to a FOIA request about 3I/ATLAS, refusing to confirm or deny records.
- 3I/ATLAS is the third confirmed interstellar object and is moving too fast to be captured by the Sun's gravity.
- Observers report a visible coma and tail, features commonly associated with comets made of ice and dust.
- Data released by civilian space agencies, including NASA, show no evidence the object is artificial.
- Former officials and reports note Glomar responses are used to protect intelligence methods, and US agencies routinely track space objects for collision risk, satellite safety and national defence.
- The CIA's refusal to acknowledge records has contributed to online speculation and discussion about the overlap between space surveillance and national security.
Summary:
The CIA's refusal to confirm or deny records has heightened public attention and speculation about 3I/ATLAS. Scientists continue to report comet-like features and civilian data show no signs of artificial origin. Researchers say improving detection systems will likely lead to more interstellar discoveries and raise questions about how scientific transparency and intelligence secrecy intersect. Undetermined at this time.