Scientists solve mystery of interstellar object 'Oumuamua

Visitor from another solar system is actually a comet in disguise, say researchers

It isn't a bird, and it isn't a plane. But quite what the cigar-shaped interstellar object 'Oumuamua is has remained something of a mystery. Now research suggests it is a comet in disguise.

Named after the Hawaiian for messenger or scout - a nod to the fact it was initially spotted by researchers working at the Pan-Starrs telescope in Hawaii in October - 'Oumuamua was quickly revealed to be a visitor from another solar system, making it the first known interstellar object to swing through our neighbourhood.