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Scientists Plan 2085 Mission to Interstellar Object 3I/ATLAS

2/25/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Scientists consider a mission to study interstellar object 3I/ATLAS, discovered July 2025.
It passed closest to the Sun in October and is releasing ancient carbon dioxide and water vapor as it exits the solar system.
A probe could catch up by 2085 if launched by 2035 via the Oberth effect.
Researchers favor a refueled SpaceX Starship, but the mission's duration and challenges raise questions.

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Story summary

Scientists consider a mission to study interstellar object 3I/ATLAS, discovered July 2025.
It passed closest to the Sun in October and is releasing ancient carbon dioxide and water vapor as it exits the solar system.
A probe could catch up by 2085 if launched by 2035 via the Oberth effect.
Researchers favor a refueled SpaceX Starship, but the mission's duration and challenges raise questions.