A Harvard astrophysicist has reignited the debate about extraterrestrial life with a startling claim: an interstellar object may have struck Earth nearly a decade ago. Professor Avi Loeb, known for his controversial theories on alien technology, suggests that a meteor detected in 2014 was not from our solar system.
An Interstellar Visitor Before 'Oumuamua
While 'Oumuamua captured global attention in 2017 as the first known interstellar visitor, Loeb's research indicates another object may have preceded it. According to declassified US government data, a small meteor entered Earth's atmosphere off Papua New Guinea in January 2014 at extraordinary speeds.
Evidence From Government Sensors
The meteor's velocity – approximately 134,200 mph – suggests it originated beyond our solar system. Loeb and his team analysed data from US Department of Defense sensors, typically used to monitor nuclear detonations, to reach their conclusion. The findings were confirmed by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
Searching for Extraterrestrial Clues
Loeb plans an expedition to recover fragments from the Pacific Ocean seabed. "Finding pieces would allow us to determine whether the object was natural or technological in origin," he explained. The scientist, who previously suggested 'Oumuamua might be an alien probe, believes studying such objects could provide evidence of extraterrestrial civilizations.
Scientific Community Divided
While some researchers remain skeptical, Loeb's work continues to challenge conventional thinking about our place in the universe. "If we find a technological relic, it would be the most significant discovery in human history," Loeb stated. The planned ocean expedition could provide answers – or raise even more questions about interstellar visitors to Earth.
