A rare interstellar object is hurtling toward the sun and, despite viral claims, experts say it's just a normal comet, although it's showing some unexpected behavior.

3I/Atlas marks the third interstellar object ever discovered in our solar system; scientists found the interstellar object in July 2025, according to Space.com.

As the comet nears its closest point to the sun in its orbit on Wednesday, Oct. 29, and amid a Harvard astronomer's hypothesis about potential alien technology, the internet has been abuzz with curiosity about 3I/Atlas.

Experts with NASA say there's no reason to worry , as the object is a natural comet posing no threat to Earth, though its unusual chemical activity offers a chance for new scientific discoveries, according to the Guardian.

Here's what to know

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