Unraveling the Origins of 'Oumuamua: Clues Hidden in its Unprecedented Speed

Astronomers can determine the origin and composition of interstellar objects (ISOs) like 'Oumuamua based on their velocity as they enter our solar system. ISOs are expected to come from the thin disk of the galaxy, which contains stars with more heavy elements. The lower an ISO's relative velocity compared to the sun, the more likely it is to fall into the inner solar system where it can be detected. ISOs from the thin disk are expected to have a lower fraction of water due to the abundance of heavy elements. The upcoming Vera Rubin Observatory is expected to discover hundreds of new ISOs, providing more insights into their origins and chemical properties.