A Murmuration Based Interpretation of 1I/'Oumuamua: A Swarm Dynamics Model for Its Photometric and Dynamical Anomalies

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Authors: Juanita J. Salisbury
Cited by: 0

Abstract

The interstellar object 1I/’Oumuamua exhibited a combination of properties that challenge standard natural‑object models: a large‑amplitude, complex light curve; non‑principal‑axis rotation; a non‑gravitational acceleration consistent with radiation pressure; and a complete absence of comet‑like outgassing, dust, or thermal excess. Traditional interpretations assume a rigid, monolithic body, but this assumption is not required by the data. This paper develops an alternative hypothesis in which ’Oumuamua is modeled as a coherent swarm of nano‑scale units, a “murmuration,” whose emergent behavior can reproduce the observed light curve and acceleration. This framework naturally accommodates radiation‑pressure propulsion, torque‑free acceleration, dynamic shape presentation, and the absence of volatiles. The murmuration model is presented as a physically coherent, observationally consistent alternative to rigid‑body interpretations, expanding the hypothesis space for interstellar objects.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Astro and Planetary Science Stellar planetary and galactic studies Space Satellite Systems and Control

Publication details

Journal / source
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)
Publication date
27 January 2026
Language
EN