Mission to 3I/ATLAS: Can We Intercept the Next Interstellar Object?

Scientists from the Initiative for Interstellar Studies have proposed an ambitious mission to intercept 3I/ATLAS, the third known interstellar visitor to enter our solar system. Because the object was detected late and is traveling at extreme speed, a direct launch is no longer possible.Instead, researchers outline a 2035 mission using a Solar Oberth maneuver—diving close to the Sun for a powerful velocity boost—combined with a gravitational slingshot around Jupiter. The spacecraft could reach its target after a decades-long journey, offering a rare opportunity to study material from another star system using current technology. Such a mission could transform our understanding of extrasolar planetary formation without requiring true interstellar travel.Thank you for listening to Bedtime Astronomy — your guide to the cosmos. New episodes on space exploration, NASA missions & the latest astronomy breakthroughs.This episode includes AI-generated content.