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