What Has The US Congress Done So Far On UAP/UFOs?
From initial skepticism to growing acknowledgment, the US Congress has played a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of UAP research and investigation. The involvement of the US Congress in discussing the issue of UAPs dates back decades, but the most intriguing engagements have occurred in recent years. Interest in the subject of UAPs has escalated, leading to widespread belief that the US government holds significant undisclosed information. A tug-of-war emerges between the secrecy faction and the disclosure faction within the US government, making it crucial to comprehend the unfolding events surrounding this matter.
December 2017 - The New York Times Article
What kickstarted the current UAP disclosure efforts was a New York Times article that was written by Helene Cooper, Ralph Blumenthal and Leslie Kean. It spoke of the Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program (AATIP), a shadowy endeavor that investigated reports of unidentified flying objects, operated within the Pentagon’s confines, largely concealed from public view. Initiated in 2007, the program’s main funding came from then-Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, who collaborated with billionaire entrepreneur Robert Bigelow, a proponent of space phenomena research.
Despite official claims that the program ended in 2012, insiders assert its persistence. While funding ceased, program members continued investigating episodes reported by military personnel, alongside their other defense-related duties. The program examined sightings of high-speed aircraft with peculiar propulsion behaviors and videos of encounters between unidentified objects and American military aircraft. The 2004 incident involving Navy fighter jets pursuing a mysterious oval object off the coast of San Diego showcases the enigma’s depth.
Former senators Harry Reid, Ted Stevens, and Daniel Inouye were instrumental in driving UAP research funding. However, the program was kept largely hidden, rooted in classified allocations. The program’s findings led some, like Mr. Bigelow, to claim firm belief in extraterrestrial existence and UAP visitations to Earth.
2019 - The Navy Confirms
Soon the actors would emerge. Commander David Fravor and his colleague Alex Dietrich were involved in the 2004 Nimitz Incident, as captured in the FLIR video. Ryan Graves and his squadron were witnesses to wave of UFO sightings on the eastern coast. They were responsible for capturing the Gimbal video. Further, Lie Elizondo and Chris Mellon would also make public appearances and explain the scale of threat that the US faced from the phenomena.
The NY Times article also presented three videos – Gimbal, Go Fast and FLIR. The videos were initially given to the press by Christopher Mellon, the former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Intelligence. Around the same time, Luis Elizondo, the director of AATIP, had resigned from the Pentagon in October 2017 to protest government secrecy and opposition to the investigation, stating in a resignation letter to Defense Secretary James Mattis that the program was not being taken seriously.
As Elizondo explains, these objects showed no visible signs of propulsion, control surfaces, exhaust plumes etc, yet were capable of trans-medium travel, hypersonic speeds, and anti-gravity. The US Navy would later confirm these anomalies and begin briefing Members of Congress on the issue.
2021 - The UAP Task Force Report
Bipartisan efforts within Congress propelled the UAP issue forward. Closed-door interviews by the House and Senate Armed Services Committees with pilots like Chad Underwood, Alex Dietrich, David Fravor, and Ryan Graves escalated interest among politicians on Capitol Hill. The resulting discussions prompted elected officials to engage actively in the matter.
Deputy Secretary of Defense David L. Norquist’s authorization on August 4, 2020, marked the establishment of the Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) Task Force (UAPTF), led by the Department of the Navy. The task force’s primary focus was enhancing UAP comprehension while assessing potential national security threats. Detecting, analyzing, and cataloging UAPs emphasized on personnel safety and operational security, signifying the Department of Defense’s dedication to comprehensive scrutiny.
The Senate Intelligence Committee took further steps by aiming to make UAP information public. Initially intended as part of the Intelligence Authorization Act for 2021, the request failed to pass. Subsequently, efforts were redirected to the Covid-19 relief bill, signed by Donald Trump in December 2020. Buried within this massive legislation was a provision requiring the Director of National Intelligence to collaborate with the Defense Department and disclose all government knowledge on UAPs. The Director of National Intelligence had 180 days to submit the report to Congress within 180 days, signaling a shift in attitude.
The Office of the Director of National Intelligence unveiled the UAPTF’s report to the public on June 25, 2021. Covering the period from 2004 to 2021, the investigation delved into 144 incidents exclusively reported by military personnel. Among these, a lone case was identified as a deflating balloon, while 143 remained unexplained. Intriguingly, 80 cases were captured by multiple sensors concurrently as witnessed by personnel. Patterns emerged in UAP attributes, encompassing size, shape, and propulsion. Startlingly, the data suggested that these unidentified aerial phenomena possessed remarkably advanced technologies, potentially altering the balance of power in combat scenarios.
The report underscored a spectrum of capabilities, encompassing anti-gravity, rapid agile maneuvers, hypersonic speeds, low-observable signatures, and advanced propulsion devoid of sonic disruptions. As a conclusion, it firmly asserted that UAPs presented a significant national security risk and a potential hazard to aviation safety. The submission of a classified report to the Senate Intelligence Committee underscored the depth and intricacy of the subject matter.
The report stated, “While many UAPs in our dataset remain unidentified due to limited data or challenges in collection, processing, or analysis, we may require additional scientific knowledge to effectively collect, analyze, and characterize some of them. Such objects will be categorized as such until scientific advancements allow better understanding.” The UAPTF aimed to concentrate extra analysis on instances where UAPs exhibited unusual flight behaviors or unique signature management. Importantly, the report highlighted that the UAPTF had documented 11 cases of near misses between pilots and UAPs.
Furthermore, the report emphasized, “We currently lack data indicating any UAP as part of a foreign collection program or representing a significant technological leap by a potential adversary. We remain vigilant for signs of such programs due to the counterintelligence challenges they would pose, especially given that some UAPs have been detected near military installations or by aircraft equipped with advanced sensor systems of the US government.”
2022 - Public Hearings and Whistleblower Protections
On May 7, 2022 the U.S. House of Representatives took a significant step in addressing the UFO phenomenon by voting to establish a secure government system for reporting UFOs. This amendment, added to the National Defense Authorization Act, aimed to compel current and former officials to share any knowledge they possess about these mysterious aerial phenomena while ensuring protection from potential reprisals. The bipartisan amendment, proposed by Representatives Mike Gallagher (R-Wis.) and Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), reflected a growing bipartisan effort to increase oversight of this enduring intelligence-gathering challenge.
The amendment mandated the establishment of an internal reporting system for the swift sharing of information related to unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP), previously restricted by nondisclosure agreements or orders. The provision encompasses current and former military personnel, government civilians, and contractors, fostering a more transparent environment. However, the “amnesty” clause excluded events related to top-secret U.S. programs or those associated with special access or compartmented access programs. Furthermore, the bill tasked the Department of Defense Inspector General with conducting an independent assessment of the provision’s compliance and the efficacy of the established system within a year of its final passage.
The final version of the NDAA also greatly expanded the scope of the new investigative agencies by acknowledging their transmedium capabilites. The House’s approval of the amendment signified a significant stride towards increased transparency and accountability in addressing the perplexing phenomenon of unidentified aerial objects. By facilitating reporting and knowledge-sharing, this initiative aims to unravel the enigma of UFOs while safeguarding those who come forward with information.
On May 17, 2022, a significant milestone was achieved as the Senate conducted its inaugural public hearing on UFOs, attended by Scott Bray and Ronald Moultrie from the Office of Naval Intelligence. Expressing heightened concern, they emphasized the growing frequency of UAP sightings and their apparent engagement in signal manipulation. While numerous cases remain unexplained, the shortage of data contributes to this challenge. During the public session, representatives encountered limitations in providing answers to certain inquiries, including queries about underwater UAPs. To address these gaps, a classified briefing was scheduled subsequent to the public hearing. This event marked a notable step towards transparency and understanding in the realm of UAP research.
After the UAPTF and its successor -AOIMSG were found to be inadequate, the Department of Defense set up the All Domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) which was led by Dr. Sean Kirkpatrick.
2023 - AARO and NASA Hold Public Discussions
In January 2023, AARO unveiled its second report, conducted in collaboration with the Director of National Intelligence (DNI), further detailing their analyses of UAP data. The report revealed that AARO had delved into a total of 510 UAP cases. Among these cases, 171 instances remained enigmatic and could not be conclusively explained. Despite the consistent challenge of insufficient data, the report emphasized the persistence of UAP events within restricted or sensitive airspace. The report raised concerns about potential implications for flight safety and the potential for adversary data collection activities. ODNI underscored that this trend might be attributed to a collection bias stemming from the substantial number of active aircraft and sensors, coupled with heightened attention and directives to report anomalies. The report’s findings reflect the intricate task of comprehending UAP occurrences amid complex operational contexts and the intricacies of data interpretation.
In April 2023, Dr. Sean Kirkpatrick took the stand before the Senate Armed Services Committee to elucidate the operational framework of the AARO. His testimony encompassed not only the modus operandi of AARO but also provided updates on the progress of their analysis of UAP. Dr. Kirkpatrick also fielded inquiries regarding the technical prerequisites that his office required to effectively carry out their mandate.
During his analysis, Dr. Sean Kirkpatrick revealed a significant pattern in UAP reports – a majority of the sightings described round or spherical orbs. These enigmatic phenomena were frequently observed within an altitude range of 10,000 to 30,000 feet. An intriguing observation arose from the fact that many of these reports lacked discernible signs of visible exhaust, leaving the nature of their propulsion mechanisms shrouded in mystery. The Department of Defense (DOD) went on to disclose that a substantial portion of AARO’s workload was dedicated to investigating anomalous cases, accounting for nearly half of the total 650+ UAP reports under scrutiny.
During his presentation, Dr. Kirkpatrick unveiled compelling video evidence showcasing a UAP resembling a metallic orb. This footage was captured by an MQ-9 Drone in Iraq in 2022, exemplifying the type of UAP that has become notably prevalent among US Forces’ observations. The report’s findings also highlighted global UAP hotspots, encompassing the American coasts, West Asia, and the Korean Peninsula. Notably, this distribution closely mirrors the geographical footprint of American military presence around the world, which may contribute to the scarcity of data on UAP hotspots beyond these regions. This insight emphasizes the correlation between UAP sightings and geopolitical dynamics, underscoring the need for a comprehensive understanding of the global context in which these phenomena manifest.
On the 31st May, NASA’s UAP Panel, set up by Director Bill Nelson, held its first ever public discussion on UAPs. Dr. Sean Kirkpatrick, who was invited to brief NASA on the framework used by AARO to resolve cases, revealed that the Pentagon was indeed collaborating with its ‘Five Eyes’ partners – Canada, UK, Australia, and New Zealand. On May 31st, a groundbreaking event occurred when NASA’s UAP Panel, initiated under the direction of Director Bill Nelson, conducted its inaugural public discussion on the subject of Unidentified Aerial Phenomena. Dr. Sean Kirkpatrick, renowned for his role in AARO, was a featured speaker, presenting the methodology utilized by AARO to decipher UAP cases. Notably, Dr. Kirkpatrick unveiled a significant revelation: the Pentagon was engaged in collaborative efforts with its ‘Five Eyes’ intelligence alliance partners, comprising Canada, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.
During the session, a representative from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also shared insights with the NASA panel. This presentation illuminated the FAA’s technological capabilities and how they could contribute to the resolution of UAP reports. Notably, it was disclosed that air traffic controllers submit 3-5 UAP reports on a monthly basis. The period from February to March 2023 marked a remarkable surge in UAP reports—more than 60 cases—attributed to increased vigilance following the Chinese Spy Balloon incident.
Subsequently, the panel embarked on an analysis of the currently available data. Their discussion encompassed potential strategies through which existing platforms could be leveraged to yield additional data, enhancing the efficacy of UAP report resolutions. This event signifies a crucial step forward in fostering transparency and collaboration across government agencies and organizations in addressing the enigma of UAPs.
David Grusch Comes Forward
A former intelligence official named David Grusch who has become a whistleblower recently revealed classified information to both Congress and the Intelligence Community Inspector General (ICIG). The information pertains to highly secretive programs that, according to his claims, involve the retrieval of intact and partially intact crafts of non-human origin. These revelations have been unlawfully withheld from Congress, and the whistleblower has filed a complaint asserting that he faced illegal retaliation for disclosing this confidential information. This report was unveiled for the first time through authors Leslie Keane and Ralph Blumenthal via the Debrief. Additionally, Grusch also gave a 40 minute interview to Ross Coulthart Harris which was aired by News Nation.
David Charles Grusch, the whistleblower in question, is a 36-year-old former combat officer who served in Afghanistan. He boasts experience with the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) and the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO). Grusch played a crucial role in these agencies, acting as the reconnaissance office’s representative to the Unidentified Aerial Phenomena Task Force between 2019 and 2021. Subsequently, from late 2021 to July 2022, he served as the NGA’s co-lead for UAP analysis and concurrently represented the agency in the task force’s operations. He was also responsible for writing some of the language in the NDAA for 2023 that granted whistleblowers protection in divulging UAP secrets to Congress.
David Grusch’s claims are as follows:
1. Global UAP Possession: The United States, along with some of its allies and adversaries, is purportedly in possession of Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAPs).
2. Reverse Engineering and Strategic Advantage: Allegedly, there are ongoing efforts to reverse-engineer these UAPs, with the goal of gaining strategic and military advantages for the United States.
3. Sophisticated Disinformation Campaign: Grusch contends that a sophisticated disinformation campaign is being orchestrated to intentionally keep the general public uninformed about these matters.
4. Misappropriation of Budgets: The whistleblower claims that the funding for these efforts has been secured through the misappropriation of budgets, possibly diverting resources from other areas.
5. Involvement of Private Contractors: It is alleged that certain private contractors, such as Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman, have been entrusted with the examination of these craft.
6. Biological Samples Recovery: Grusch claims that biological samples have been retrieved in connection to UAP encounters.
7. Fatal Consequences: Shockingly, the whistleblower suggests that both UAPs and government entities have been responsible for fatalities in order to maintain secrecy.
8. Advanced Material Sciences: UAPs appear to defy the limits of current material sciences, showcasing capabilities that surpass our understanding.
9. Non-Human Intelligence: Grusch asserts that UAPs originate from one or potentially multiple “Non-Human Intelligences” (NHIs), indicating the presence of entities beyond human understanding.
10. Mixed Intentions: According to his claims, these NHIs are not universally benevolent, suggesting a range of intentions and behaviors associated with them.
Additional intelligence officials, both active and retired, who possess knowledge of these programs due to their involvement in various agencies, have independently come forward with similar information that corroborates the whistleblower’s claims. Some of these officials have provided their information on and off the record to the Inspector General and to Congress. The Inspector General called Grusch’s complaint as “credible and urgent”.
“His assertion concerning the existence of a terrestrial arms race occurring sub-rosa over the past eighty years focused on reverse engineering technologies of unknown origin is fundamentally correct, as is the indisputable realization that at least some of these technologies of unknown origin derive from non-human intelligence,” said Karl Nell, the retired Army Colonel who worked with Grusch on the UAP Task Force.
Grusch’s attorney Charles McCullough, is a former Intelligence Community Inspector General. When asked by the BBC about the U.S. having “intact and partially intact alien vehicles in its possession”, Grusch repeated his claims, and McCullough noted that Congress should have “access to the information it needs to properly oversee things going on in the executive branch”.
Chuck Schumer's UAP Disclosure Act
In July 2023, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer proposed an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act that could potentially bring about significant transparency in the realm of Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP). The proposed Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP) Disclosure Act of 2023 draws inspiration from the President John F. Kennedy Assassination Records Collection Act of 1992 and aims to create a UAP Records Collection.
The UAP Disclosure Act of 2023, seeks to establish transparency in UAP-related matters. Congress clearly knows more than the scientific community, with provisions for expert review, declassification presumption, UFO crash retrieval and legacy programs, and controlled disclosure plans, all under deadlines. This proposed legislation holds several key provisions:
1. Acknowledgment of Undisclosed UFO Documents: The Act acknowledges the existence of a multitude of UFO-related documents that remain undisclosed, despite their mandated declassification deadlines.
2.Misuse of National Security Provisions: The government has allegedly used provisions related to national security and atomic energy to withhold UAP-related information from the public.
3. Formation of Expert Review Board: The Act establishes a board consisting of experts from diverse fields, including national security officials, foreign service officials, scientists, engineers, economists, historians, and sociologists. This board will review classified UFO documents and determine their suitability for public disclosure.
4. Presumption of Declassification: All government records related to UAPs will carry a presumption of immediate declassification unless strong reasons are provided to justify withholding them.
5. Prohibition of Document Alteration or Destruction: Government officials are prohibited from altering or destroying any documents pertaining to UAPs.
6. Comprehensive Definitions: The Act defines terms such as UAP and Non-Human Intelligence meticulously to prevent evasive answers based on technicalities.
7. Controlled Disclosure Campaign Plan: The Act calls for the creation of a Controlled Disclosure Campaign Plan that outlines actions, recommendations, and benchmarks for the disclosure of postponed UAP-related information.
8. Eminent Domain over Recovered Technologies: The Federal Government is tasked with exercising eminent domain over any recovered technologies of unknown origin and biological evidence of non-human intelligence.
9. Access to Testimony and Witnesses: The Review Board is granted access to testimony from unidentified anomalous phenomena witnesses, observers, legacy program personnel, and whistleblowers.
10. Disclosure of Materials Held Under Seal: The Review Board may request the Attorney General to petition courts to release information relevant to UAPs that is currently held under court seal.
11. Cooperation of Executive Agencies: The Act urges cooperation among all heads of Executive agencies to facilitate the disclosure of UAP-related material consistent with the public interest.
The Whistleblowers' Hearing
On July 20, Congressmen Tim Burchett, Anna Paulina Luna, Jared Moskowitz, and Craig Burlison conducted a press conference in anticipation of an upcoming UFO hearing. During the conference, they disclosed encountering significant resistance from the Department of Defense (DoD) and Intelligence community regarding the hearing’s organization. They revealed impediments set up by these agencies to obstruct the event. Initially planning to invite six government witnesses, including NASA representatives, they faced the withdrawal of three witnesses. The remaining panel included David Grusch, David Fravor, and Ryan Graves.
The Congressmen highlighted their struggles to access information from pilots at Eglin Air Force Base, needing to employ persuasion to acquire access and data. They voiced concerns about excessive secrecy surrounding a matter the Pentagon claimed limited knowledge of, asserting that classified sessions contained more compelling evidence. They urged the media to pose incisive questions to extract more comprehensive answers from the government.
The UFO hearing that took place on July 26th stands as a pivotal moment in the annals of UFO history. While the witnesses’ testimonies didn’t necessarily divulge groundbreaking new revelations beyond what had been shared publicly before, the weight of their statements under oath, carrying the implications of potential perjury, lent a newfound gravitas to their words. Notably, the hearing’s significance was underscored by the overarching bipartisanship that prevailed. Representatives spanning the political spectrum acknowledged historical oversights across administrations, choosing not to indulge in partisan blame games, a rare departure from customary proceedings.
Equally remarkable was the meticulously prepared approach of these lawmakers, armed with accurate information and armed with incisive inquiries for the witnesses. The atmosphere was devoid of hostility, with no attempt to intimidate or unduly pressure the testifiers. Rather, Congress conducted itself with utmost decorum, displaying a depth of understanding through well-informed questions that etched the information onto the congressional record with precision.
This measured and earnest approach echoed the seriousness with which the legislative body embraced the topic. By forsaking the stigma often associated with UFO discussions, Congress made headway in normalizing discourse on the subject. The hearing’s impact transcends the immediate event, contributing to a broader shift in societal attitudes towards a subject that had long remained shrouded in secrecy and relegated to the fringes.
Ryan Graves, an F-18 pilot, spoke about the frequent UAP sightings he and other aviators have experienced. These UAP encounters were not isolated incidents but routine occurrences. He revealed that these objects could defy the laws of physics by remaining stationary in Category 4 Hurricane Winds, then suddenly accelerating to supersonic speeds, engaging in unpredictable and baffling maneuvers. Graves, through his organization Americans for Safe Aerospace, communicated with commercial pilots who witnessed similar crafts. He disclosed that pilots observed UAPs at various altitudes, even reaching 40,000 ft and low earth orbit. He estimated that around 95% of UAP sightings went unreported. He also disclosed accounts of Boeing contractors observing a massive UAP near Vandenberg Airforce Base. Subsequently, aggressive behaviors like rapid approach and sudden departure were documented officially.
In a serious and crucial testimony before Congress, David Fravor recounted his firsthand experience during the 2004 Nimitz incident. He provided explicit details that shed light on the perplexing nature of the encounter. Fravor conveyed that the unidentified aerial phenomena (UAPs) encountered displayed characteristics that defied conventional understanding. These crafts lacked wings, control surfaces, and any apparent signs of propulsion that would align with human-made technology. The astounding performance demonstrated by these crafts surpassed the capabilities of any known nation. These craft seemed to operate beyond the boundaries of our current understanding of material science, posing a puzzling challenge.
Fravor’s crew faced further complications during the encounter. Their radar systems experienced significant interference, suggesting an intentional disruption. This jamming of their radar systems added another layer of mystery to the incident, as it indicated a level of sophistication beyond the norm. Moreover, Fravor highlighted the improbability of the government conducting secretive tests of advanced technology near high-value equipment like multi-million-dollar aircraft. This is exactly why the Defense Department dedicates specific areas for testing of classified technologies.
David Grusch reiterated his claims regarding UAPs. Grusch referred repeatedly to his detailed allegations made in a News Nation interview. However, he emphasized the need for caution in disclosing sensitive information due to his ongoing whistleblower reprisal complaint, a matter he was unwilling to compromise.
Throughout his testimony, Grusch’s careful words carried a sense of urgency and worry. He subtly alluded to the validity of numerous questions by indicating that the answers lie within the confines of classified information. The information could be divulged to members with appropriate clearances within a Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF), which, regrettably, the attending members lacked access to.
One of the most startling revelations by Grusch was his confirmation of the existence of a covert Crash Retrieval Program. This clandestine initiative, marked by its non-human origin, pointed toward the gravity of the phenomenon. Equally chilling was Grusch’s assertion that recovered biologics were part of this program. Grusch’s claims transcend the recent past; he stated that knowledge of non-human intelligences has been within the government’s grasp since the 1930s, highlighting a history of awareness and concealment. He delved into the realm of defense contractors, asserting that some were channeling funds through Independent Research and Development (IRAD) projects, raising concerns about misappropriation and covert operations.
Dr. Sean Kirkpatrick entered the narrative as Grusch asserted that he had informed Kirkpatrick of his explosive claims. This link between Grusch and a key figure in UAP investigation underscores the gravity of the information and its potential implications.
The scope of Grusch’s claims was expansive, as he asserted possession of detailed classified information on several paramount questions. He mentioned the disturbing possibility of individuals being murdered as part of the UAP program, casting an ominous shadow over the phenomena. Grusch also delved into the intricate mechanics of how the government conceals information, shedding light on a disconcerting disinformation campaign.
Grusch’s claims didn’t stop there; he navigated deeper into the enigma by addressing the origin of the non-human intelligences, a question that remains shrouded in mystery. The specifics of the locations, programs, and departments involved in these covert initiatives also formed part of his detailed revelations, hinting at a complex web of operations hidden from public view.
Furthermore, Grusch unmasked the involvement of private contractors and sub-contractors in the intricate web of reverse engineering. The implications of these claims extend beyond the U.S., as he alluded to international collaboration on the matter, hinting at a global dimension to the phenomenon.
Perhaps one of the most astonishing aspects of Grusch’s testimony was his insinuation that the government has made contact with non-human intelligence. This assertion, if true, could have monumental implications for our understanding of our place in the cosmos.
During questioning by Representative Andy Ogles, the witnesses – Ryan Graves, David Fravor, and David Grusch – jointly asserted their concerns. They believed that the UAPs might engage in surveillance, aiming to identify weaknesses within US military capabilities and systems. These phenomena also displayed a keen interest in US nuclear technologies, raising worries about their motives. Collectively, the witnesses saw UAPs as a potential existential threat to national security, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
Graves and Fravor expressed their lack of means to defend against potential hostile UAP actions, underlining the vulnerability of our defenses. Representative Ogles concluded that a tangible threat to national security was evident, as he called attention to the issue’s urgency. He announced his intent to invoke the Holman Rule against those denying Congress access to vital information, thereby emphasizing the seriousness and imperative nature of addressing these concerns.
Congress Demands Answers
Following the significant UFO hearing, U.S. Representatives Tim Burchett (TN-02), Matt Gaetz (FL-01), Anna Paulina Luna (FL-13), and Jared Moskowitz (FL-23) took swift action by addressing a letter to House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (CA-20). Their urgent plea advocated for the establishment of a Select Committee dedicated to investigating “Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena” (UAPs).
In their compelling letter, the Representatives emphasized the need for this Select Committee to wield substantial authority, including the power to subpoena witnesses. The proposed committee’s primary mission would be to probe into the federal government’s response to UAPs, ensuring rigorous oversight over these mysterious occurrences. The letter drew particular attention to the sworn testimony from David Grusch during the hearing. This testimony underscored a troubling revelation: the Pentagon’s withholding of vital UAP-related programs and information from Congress, creating an unsettling information gap.
The call for a Select Committee demonstrated the Representatives’ determination to bridge this critical information gap and to illuminate the enigmatic realm of UAPs. Their urgent appeal to establish this committee echoed the seriousness of the matter and reflected their commitment to uncovering the truth behind these unidentified phenomena that pose potential national security concerns.
On August 21, lawmakers addressed Thomas A. Monheim, the Inspector General of the Intelligence Community, regarding the issue. In light of the sworn testimony provided by Mr. David Grusch during the recent UFO hearing, the lawmakers sought crucial clarifications. Their inquiries were grounded in the fact that Mr. Grusch’s testimony was provided under oath, lending utmost seriousness to the matter.
The lawmakers presented two specific questions that demanded transparent answers:
1. They sought information about the involvement of various members, positions, facilities, military bases, or any other relevant entities within the intelligence community in UAP crash retrieval programs, whether through direct or indirect means.
2. They similarly inquired about the involvement of intelligence community members, positions, facilities, military bases, or any other relevant entities in UAP reverse engineering programs, again, through direct or indirect involvement.
Acknowledging the urgency of the matter, the lawmakers stipulated a deadline for response by September 15, 2023. However, they also recognized the potential classification of the information requested. If the provided information contained classified material, they further requested access to this information in a secure setting no later than September 26, 2023.
The lawmakers expressed gratitude for the attention paid to their inquiry, emphasizing the importance of receiving comprehensive and accurate answers to address the serious concerns raised by Mr. Grusch’s testimony.
NASA's UAP Report Arrives
On September 14, 2023, NASA unveiled its highly anticipated report on Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAPs). NASA’s director, Bill Nelson, was unequivocal in stating that the study’s findings did not yield conclusive evidence of UAPs being of extraterrestrial origin. However, he openly acknowledged the enigmatic and puzzling nature of UAPs, emphasizing that many mysteries still shroud these airborne anomalies.
During a significant briefing, Dr. Nicola Fox, the associate administrator for NASA’s science mission directorate, made a groundbreaking announcement. NASA revealed its commitment to further exploring the mysteries surrounding UAPs by establishing a permanent department dedicated to their study. This move signifies the agency’s unwavering dedication to unraveling the complexities surrounding these phenomena. Additionally, NASA disclosed plans to establish a vital collaboration with the Aerial Anomaly Research Organization (AARO), recognizing the critical role of partnership in addressing UAP-related matters.
To lead this pioneering UAP research effort, NASA appointed Mark McInerney as the director, who had previously served as NASA’s liaison with the Department of Defense for U.A.P. issues. His extensive background includes roles within NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Maryland, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and the National Hurricane Center. The newly appointed director will play a pivotal role in several key areas:
1. Centralization of Resources and Data:
A primary responsibility of the director will be to centralize communications, resources, and data analytical capabilities across the federal government. This centralized approach aims to establish a robust database for the evaluation of UAP-related information.
2. Leveraging NASA’s Expertise:
NASA intends to harness its proficiency in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and space-based observation tools for UAP investigations. These advanced technologies will be instrumental in analyzing and understanding the nature of UAPs.
3. Coordination with Federal Bodies:
The director will serve as NASA’s primary point of contact for UAP research with other federal agencies, with a particular focus on collaborating with AARO. This coordinated effort seeks to ensure that UAP investigations are carried out collectively and efficiently.
In the pursuit of comprehensive data collection and analysis, NASA also announced its intention to engage with the public and commercial pilots. By actively involving these stakeholders, NASA aims to improve data gathering and advance citizen reporting of UAP sightings. This proactive approach is designed to destigmatize UAP reporting, encouraging individuals to come forward with their observations and experiences, ultimately contributing to a deeper understanding of these enigmatic phenomena.
In their report, NASA has outlined its commitment to contribute to the study of UAP within the comprehensive whole-of-government framework led by AARO. This endeavor represents a unique scientific opportunity that demands a meticulous, evidence-based approach. The report outlined the following ways in which NASA could help solve the UAP mystery:
NASA, renowned for its scientific expertise and global reputation for transparency, is poised to play a pivotal role in advancing UAP studies. The agency’s vast array of Earth- and space-observing assets, alongside an extensive archive of historical and current datasets, will be harnessed to better comprehend UAPs. Although NASA’s Earth-observing satellites typically lack the spatial resolution to detect small UAPs directly, they can provide essential data regarding environmental conditions linked to UAP occurrences.
Additionally, the U.S. commercial remote-sensing industry, with its high-resolution Earth-observing satellites, will serve as a valuable complement to the detection and analysis of UAP. However, these efforts are currently hampered by poor sensor calibration, lack of metadata, and baseline data, which NASA is well-positioned to address.
Furthermore, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are crucial tools for identifying UAP within extensive datasets. NASA’s extensive experience in applying these techniques can be instrumental in this endeavor. Engaging the public is a critical aspect of UAP understanding, and NASA plans to explore modern crowdsourcing techniques to gather data from citizens worldwide. A standardized system for making civilian UAP reports is sorely needed, and NASA is set to assist AARO in its development.
Moreover, NASA’s involvement in UAP research will play a vital role in destigmatizing UAP reporting, which has been a barrier to data collection. The agency’s public trust and commitment to transparent reporting, rigorous analysis, and public engagement will set a model for approaching the study of UAP. Lastly, the report emphasizes the critical issue of U.S. airspace safety. NASA’s Aviation Safety Reporting System (ASRS), administered for the FAA, is seen as a promising avenue for integration into a systematic, evidence-based framework for UAP research. Harnessing this system for pilot UAP reporting could provide a valuable database for a more comprehensive understanding of these phenomena.
For a more detailed breakdown of the report, click here.
AARO 2023 UAP Report
On October 17, 2023, the All Domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) fulfilled its annual obligation by releasing the much-anticipated UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) report, as mandated by the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2022, which was further amended by the NDAA for Fiscal Year 2023. The release of the report was accompanied by a statement from Pentagon Press Secretary Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, who emphasized the utmost importance of safeguarding the safety of service personnel, military installations, and the security of U.S. operations across all domains – land, sea, air, and space. He stressed that the U.S. takes reports of incursions into these areas seriously and conducts thorough examinations of each incident.
In the executive summary, the report states that none of the UAP seen could be positively attributed to a foreign actor. However, it did give the usual dismissive statement about most UAP reports are mere misperceptions and could be solved if there was enough data. AARO has stated multiple times that with enough data, a lot more cases could be resolved. The report also shared the following insights:
The latest UAP report, covering data from August 31, 2022, to April 30, 2023, focuses on 291 reports, with only 17 falling outside this timeframe. The inclusion of a UAP event within the maritime domain was significant. As of April 30, 2023, AARO’s repository contains 801 cases, underscoring the surge in reporting.
A pronounced collection bias characterizes UAP sightings, primarily concentrated in restricted military airspace due to heightened personnel and sensor presence. Notably, the report observes a growing number of sightings by commercial aviators, broadening the geographical range of UAP observations. However, the data still exhibits a U.S.-centric bias in reporting compared to global trends.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has provided over 100 UAP reports, reinforcing the presence of UAPs near U.S. airspace and adjacent waters. These reports predominantly describe unidentified lights without specific shapes, occurring at altitudes ranging from 5,000 to 60,000 feet. Importantly, AARO clarifies that none of these reports were considered anomalous or posed threats to aircraft safety.
The report offers reassurance by reporting no adverse health effects resulting from UAP encounters. However, it acknowledges the potential for such effects in the future, emphasizing the need for ongoing vigilance.
AARO’s integrated analysis process captures raw data for in-depth examination by scientists and intelligence experts, with a focus on sensor data for high investigative quality. Plans to introduce specialized sensors tailored for UAP event capture in the near future signal a commitment to enhancing investigative precision and reliability.
In the glossary provided by AARO, “UAP Material” is defined as debris linked to Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena, while “UAP Engagement” refers to military actions directed at Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena. These definitions suggest the potential presence of more detailed and possibly classified information in the confidential version of the report.
A comparative analysis of the report’s trends and data presented by Dr. Sean Kirkpatrick to NASA earlier this year reveals intriguing disparities. These variations are primarily due to the inclusion of reports from commercial aviators, significantly broadening the scope of reported UAP encounters.
Notably, the current data underscores a noteworthy observation: a majority of UAP reports lack descriptions of morphology, a detail not prominently featured in the previous dataset. Among the reported morphologies, orbs and spheres constitute half of the current dataset, with other shapes like ovals, triangles, rectangles, squares, and cylinders making up 15%. Moreover, the prevalence of ambiguous sensor contacts has decreased by nearly half, indicating improved clarity in UAP reporting.
The altitude distribution of UAP reports has also shifted, with the previous data indicating that only 6% of reports originated from altitudes above 40,000 feet, primarily associated with commercial air traffic. In the latest report, this number has risen to 10%, signifying a growing presence of UAPs at higher altitudes. Most reports still originate from altitudes between 20,000 and 30,000 feet.
Regarding global hotspots for UAP activity, a noticeable trend emerges. There is a reduced number of reports originating from Northern Europe, Iran/Afghanistan, and the Pacific. Instead, there is an increased concentration of reports from the Arabian Sea, Alaska, and the Mediterranean regions. The U.S. coastlines, Middle East, and the Korean Peninsula continue to dominate the data in both datasets, underscoring the persistence of these regions as focal points for UAP encounters.
To read a detailed breakdown of the report, click here.
