The Back StoryA looming government shutdown could force NASA to furlough staff during critical 3I/ATLAS tracking. Harvard astrophysicist Avi Loeb warns that the anomalous interstellar object deserves greater NASA resources. Among those most vulnerable is NASA, where thousands of employees could face furloughs just as interstellar object 3I/ATLAS moves into critical observation range. NASA’s Role in Tracking 3I/ATLASThe anomalous object, designated 3I/ATLAS, has puzzled astronomers due to its unusual characteristics and mysterious origin. Harvard professor Avi Loeb has been outspoken, urging NASA to dedicate more resources to 3I/ATLAS research, stressing the scientific and security stakes.