ZANA–Saewetern Field Update: Orbital Reorientation of 3I/ATLAS – A Hypothesis on Controlled Thrust Without Volatile Outgassing

Abstract — 3I/ATLAS Observation Brief and Hypothesis This record shares a concise, observation-driven note on 3I/ATLAS, comparing telescope imagery (e.g., R. Naves, 2025-11-05) with a hypothetical engineered-object interpretation. The object shows compact high-reflectivity, extremely low outgassing near perihelion, and small but non-gravitational acceleration. These features are qualitatively consistent with a non-volatile surface and a durable hull. The hypothesis outlines a layered, self-repairing alloy and a shield that activates only under extreme solar/plasma stress; propulsion could include non-classical thrust, though this remains unverified. The note lists testable predictions (orbital perturbation analysis, >1 μm spectroscopy, and polarimetric signatures) so that future data can confirm or falsify the hypothesis. This Zenodo entry provides a stable timestamp and DOI for open discussion and follow-up measurements. Keywords: 3I/ATLAS; interstellar object; non-gravitational acceleration; spectroscopy; polarimetry; engineered hull hypothesis; dark-energy/propulsion (theoretical).