A Murmuration-Based Interpretation of 3I/ATLAS: Evidence for a Recurrent Swarm-Dynamics Architecture in Interstellar Objects

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Authors: Juanita J. Salisbury
Cited by: 0

Abstract

3I/ATLAS, the third known interstellar object, exhibits a combination of comet‑like emissions and dynamical anomalies that challenge standard natural‑body interpretations. This paper extends the murmuration model previously applied to 1I/‘Oumuamua, evaluating whether a coordinated swarm of nano‑scale units can reproduce the observed morphology, symmetry, rotation, and non‑gravitational acceleration of 3I/ATLAS. Several features—including smooth acceleration, threefold jet symmetry, rotation‑axis alignment with the Sun, and unusual refractory dust—are naturally accommodated by a swarm‑dynamics architecture. The murmuration framework thus provides a unified explanation for two interstellar objects with distinct appearances, suggesting that emergent, non‑rigid architectures may represent a broader class of interstellar phenomena.

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