11-14-2025, 12:12 AM
ISO-StratSim: A Computational Framework for Testing the Thermal Asymmetry and Volatile Stratification Hypothesis
Author: Lee Johnston — Founder of The Lumin Archive
Abstract
This paper introduces ISO-StratSim, a modular computational framework developed to test the hypothesis that interstellar objects evolve internal stratification and thermal asymmetry during both their interstellar drift and their passage through stellar systems. The model simulates multi-layer volatile transport, conductive and radiative energy exchange, asymmetric heating profiles, and the migration of trapped gases within porous matrices.
ISO-StratSim provides a flexible platform for exploring the thermodynamic pathways that produce the heterogeneous internal structures observed in ISOs such as 3I/ATLAS. The framework supports comparative studies, parameter sweeps, and scenario modelling, enabling deeper investigation into the origin and evolution of extrasolar cometary bodies.
Download & DOI
Zenodo DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17585199
Click above to download the full PDF and associated materials.
A local PDF copy may also be attached to preserve an internal archive version within The Lumin Archive.
Full Citation
Johnston, L. (2025). ISO-StratSim: A Computational Framework for Testing the Thermal Asymmetry and Volatile Stratification Hypothesis. Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17585199
Overview
ISO-StratSim is designed to explore the layered chemical and thermal evolution of interstellar objects. Key capabilities include:
• Simulation of asymmetric solar and interstellar heating profiles
• Time-dependent conductive and radiative energy transport
• Multilayer volatile migration and stratification modelling
• cryogenic evolution and deep-space thermal relaxation
• Volatile release, burial, and internal redistribution
• Scenario-based comparisons across ISO types and histories
The framework aims to unify observational constraints, thermophysical modelling, and evolutionary theory into a single computational toolset for future ISO studies.
Published as part of The Lumin Archive’s commitment to open scientific modelling of interstellar objects and advanced thermophysical processes.
Author: Lee Johnston — Founder of The Lumin Archive
Abstract
This paper introduces ISO-StratSim, a modular computational framework developed to test the hypothesis that interstellar objects evolve internal stratification and thermal asymmetry during both their interstellar drift and their passage through stellar systems. The model simulates multi-layer volatile transport, conductive and radiative energy exchange, asymmetric heating profiles, and the migration of trapped gases within porous matrices.
ISO-StratSim provides a flexible platform for exploring the thermodynamic pathways that produce the heterogeneous internal structures observed in ISOs such as 3I/ATLAS. The framework supports comparative studies, parameter sweeps, and scenario modelling, enabling deeper investigation into the origin and evolution of extrasolar cometary bodies.
Download & DOI
Zenodo DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17585199
Click above to download the full PDF and associated materials.
A local PDF copy may also be attached to preserve an internal archive version within The Lumin Archive.
Full Citation
Johnston, L. (2025). ISO-StratSim: A Computational Framework for Testing the Thermal Asymmetry and Volatile Stratification Hypothesis. Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17585199
Overview
ISO-StratSim is designed to explore the layered chemical and thermal evolution of interstellar objects. Key capabilities include:
• Simulation of asymmetric solar and interstellar heating profiles
• Time-dependent conductive and radiative energy transport
• Multilayer volatile migration and stratification modelling
• cryogenic evolution and deep-space thermal relaxation
• Volatile release, burial, and internal redistribution
• Scenario-based comparisons across ISO types and histories
The framework aims to unify observational constraints, thermophysical modelling, and evolutionary theory into a single computational toolset for future ISO studies.
Published as part of The Lumin Archive’s commitment to open scientific modelling of interstellar objects and advanced thermophysical processes.