NASA even posted a comparison image, showing a razor-sharp Martian landscape next to the fuzzy 3I/ATLAS photo.
Leslie Tamppari of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory explained:
“This is one of those rare occasions where we get to study a passing space object, as well.”
HiRISE “The Real Issue Isn’t the Blurry Image”
Though NASA assured the public that the images still hold scientific value, Avi Loeb criticized the agency’s response, saying the real problem is the lack of meaningful discussion.
He argues that labeling 31/ATLAS a “normal comet” ignores key anomalies.
Loeb suggests that “obvious facts may be covering deeper questions,” urging scientists to remain open to unconventional explanations.
Comet 3I/ATLAS will reach its closest point to Earth around December 19, though still much farther than its earlier pass near Mars at 0.2 AU.
NASA’s fuzzy HiRISE images of 31/ATLAS may not satisfy the public’s expectations, but they highlight an important debate about scientific transparency and the limits of our instruments. As the comet continues its journey, curiosity — and controversy — are only growing.
