Fact Check: UFOs

What We Know

The term "UFO" (Unidentified Flying Object) has been widely used to describe aerial phenomena that cannot be identified. In recent years, the U.S. government has shifted its terminology to "UAP" (Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena) to encompass a broader range of unidentified objects, including those in air, sea, and space. The Department of Defense's All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) reported receiving 757 UAP reports in a recent period, with 485 incidents occurring during that time and 272 from previous years that were reported late (DOD Examining Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena). AARO has resolved many cases to common objects like balloons and drones, but only a small percentage are deemed potentially anomalous. Importantly, AARO has stated that there is no verifiable evidence of extraterrestrial beings or technology (DOD Examining Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena).

In contrast, a new film titled The Age of Disclosure claims an 80-year cover-up of UFO evidence by the government, featuring interviews with military and intelligence officials. Critics, including Joshua Semeter from Boston University, argue that the film lacks substantial evidence and emphasizes the need for better data collection and scientific analysis of UAP sightings (New Film The Age of Disclosure Alleges Government Cover-Up of UFOs).

Analysis

The evidence surrounding UFOs and UAPs is complex and often contradictory. The AARO's reports provide a structured approach to understanding UAPs, emphasizing that while many sightings can be explained, a minority remain unexplained. The assertion that no evidence of extraterrestrial technology has been found is significant and suggests that while the phenomenon is real, it does not necessarily imply extraterrestrial origins (DOD Examining Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena).

Conversely, the film The Age of Disclosure presents a narrative of government secrecy and cover-up, which resonates with some audiences but lacks rigorous scientific backing. Semeter's skepticism highlights the importance of a disciplined scientific approach to UAP investigations, advocating for simultaneous observations from multiple sensors to enhance data reliability (New Film The Age of Disclosure Alleges Government Cover-Up of UFOs). This perspective is crucial, as it underscores the need for credible evidence rather than sensational claims.

The reliability of sources is also a factor. The AARO is a government entity with a mandate to investigate UAPs scientifically, making its findings relatively credible. In contrast, the film's claims are based on anecdotal evidence and interviews, which may not hold the same weight in scientific discourse (DOD Examining Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena, New Film The Age of Disclosure Alleges Government Cover-Up of UFOs).

Conclusion

The claim that UFOs (or UAPs) represent a significant and unexplained phenomenon is Partially True. While there is a substantial number of reports and some unexplained cases, the assertion that these phenomena indicate extraterrestrial life or technology is not supported by current evidence. The AARO's findings emphasize the need for further investigation and data collection, while sensational claims about government cover-ups lack the necessary scientific validation.