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> We discuss the possible origins of such an object including the possibility that it might be a lightsail of artificial origin. Our general results apply to an
by samspenc 8y ago
> We discuss the possible origins of such an object including the possibility that it might be a lightsail of artificial origin. Our general results apply to any light probes designed for interstellar travel.
Could someone clarify whether it means what I think it is saying - that an Arxiv paper is trying to prove that this is an object sent by an alien civilization to peek at our solar system?
- grondilu 8y agoYes, it means what you think it means, though "discussing the possibility" does not mean "trying to prove". Weirder Arxiv papers exist, it's not that odd.
- naikrovek 8y agoAnyone can publish to Arxiv; one doesn't need to be credible to publish there. I am not saying these authors are untrustworthy, by the way, or that the object in question is or is not of alien & artificial origin; I am saying that anyone can publish a paper to Arxiv.
- paulpauper 8y agonope. from personal experience trying, you need two endorsements.
- empath75 8y agoThey are attached to an institution however.
- tree_of_item 8y agoNo, you read it wrong. They are not trying to prove anything, they are discussing the possible origins of the object.