New theory may explain how mystery space object Oumuamua came into being: astronomers

Omuamua, an interstellar object, has puzzled scientists with its unusual shape and unexplained acceleration. Discovered by the Pan Stars Observatory in Hawaii in 2017, its name means 'a messenger from afar arriving first.' A study suggests that tidal forces from a host star may have fragmented its parent body, forming Omuamua's elongated shape. The object's dry surface contrasts with expectations of icy interstellar objects, possibly due to intense heat near the star. As Omuamua travels through the solar system, trapped water ice may vaporize, providing thrust and causing its gravity-defying acceleration.

What is the main reason scientists are puzzled by Omuamua?

• Its shape and acceleration

• Its size

• Its distance from Earth

• Its color

When was Omuamua first observed?

• January 10th, 2019

• December 25th, 2018

• November 1st, 2016

• October 19th, 2017

What do researchers suggest about Omuamua's parent body?

• It was a black hole

• It was a planet

• It had a close encounter with a host star

• It was a single large comet

What might explain Omuamua's dry surface?

• It is covered in dust

• It melted under intense heat near a star

• It was formed in a cold region

• It is made of metal

How could water ice beneath Omuamua's surface affect its movement?

• By changing its color

• By freezing and slowing it down

• By vaporizing and creating thrust

• By making it heavier