unknown

NORAD’s value is on full display as flying objects shot down over North America

Published

2 weeks ago

December 12, 2024

The Conversation

NORAD — In this photo provided by the U.S. navy, sailors recover a high-altitude surveillance balloon off the coast of Myrtle Beach, S.C., on Feb. 5, 2023. A missile was fired by a U.S. F-22 off the Carolina coast to bring the balloon down. (U.S. Navy via AP)

Andrea Charron, University of Manitoba

Four (and counting) air objects have violated North American airspace in less than a week.

It began with a Chinese high-altitude surveillance balloon flying over Alaska and northwestern Canada.

The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) tracked the balloon and the three other air objects. None appeared to pose a military threat to North America, but they still caused concern because they could both gather intelligence and interfere with civilian air traffic.

NORAD is binational. Canadian and United States military personnel are assigned to NORAD to focus on the defence of the North American continent, not just Canada or the U.S. It’s a vital command that has been overlooked and undervalued. It is, however, the first line of defence for both states — as many Americans and Canadians are now learning.

NORAD’s reason for being

NORAD has three missions:

It warns and tracks air objects of concern (aerospace warning)
It can defeat (in other words, shoot down) these objects or escort them out of national airspace (aerospace control)
It tracks maritime vessels approaching North America that may be of concern (maritime warning)

What’s unique about NORAD is that Canadian and American interceptors, personnel and assets work together seamlessly in joint commands. For example, Canadian personnel can be in charge of American NORAD personnel in Alaska while U.S. jets assigned to NORAD may operate in Canadian airspace.

NORAD personnel communicate and co-ordinate with each other across national boundaries. This is all part of the NORAD agreement.

It’s no accident that a statement by U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin specifically noted Canada and NORAD’s role in the dramatic shooting down of the Chinese surveillance balloon over the Atlantic Ocean on Feb. 4.

A Black man in a suit stands next to a dark-haired woman in a red coat, a Canadian flag in the foreground and a military band next to them. — U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin welcomes Canada’s Defence Minister Anita Anand to the Pentagon during a welcoming ceremony in 2023 in Washington, D.C. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

NORAD Commander General Glen VanHerck — a four-star U.S. general — is based at Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado Springs, and can reach out to both the American president and the Canadian prime minister.

He’s equally responsible to American and Canadian citizens. If a flying object needs to be shot down, the American president approves any action in U.S. airspace while the prime minister approves it in Canadian airspace. Sovereignty is respected.

However, both Canadian and American personnel and assets are involved.

This was evident in the case of the air objects flying over the Yukon and Lake Huron.

While they were shot down in Canadian airspace with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s permission, American fighter jets were in position to assist and execute the commands.

Under NORAD provisions, it doesn’t matter if it’s Canadian or American jets used to shoot down unidentified flying objects over North America. NORAD’s mission was achieved with the appropriate national command authority.

NORAD now on our radar

While NORAD certainly needs modernizing — it requires not only new radars, satellites and interceptors, but also ways to integrate information and intelligence from more partners and allies — the events of the past few days show it’s agile.

Those same events have also reminded both Canadians and Americans that North America is vulnerable.

A grey-haired man in a military uniform speaks while a dark-haired man is seen behind him wearing a face mask. — Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Gen. Glen VanHerck, NORAD commander, take part in a NORAD briefing in Colorado Springs, Colo., in June 2022. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick

We don’t know the origins of all of the flying objects — that will be up to the FBI, RCMP and intelligence agencies to discern. If the air objects originated in foreign nations, next steps will involve the U.S. State Department and Global Affairs Canada. If they’re domestic in origin, it will be a matter for police and regulatory authorities.

Either way, the recent events have provided North Americans with a clear wake-up call. Canada is not the “fire-proof house” it once hoped it could be.

Neither is the U.S. immune from potential threats just because of its military might.

NORAD celebrates its 65th anniversary in May. The organization is clearly needed now more than ever. But its biggest challenge remains the lack of understanding of its value and importance.

If there’s any silver lining to the events of the past few weeks, perhaps it’s that North Americans will now recognize and appreciate the role NORAD plays in keeping them safe.

Andrea Charron, Associate Professor and Director of the Centre for Defence and Security Studies, University of Manitoba

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

The science section of our news blog STM Daily News provides readers with captivating and up-to-date information on the latest scientific discoveries, breakthroughs, and innovations across various fields. We offer engaging and accessible content, ensuring that readers with different levels of scientific knowledge can stay informed. Whether it’s exploring advancements in medicine, astronomy, technology, or environmental sciences, our science section strives to shed light on the intriguing world of scientific exploration and its profound impact on our daily lives. From thought-provoking articles to informative interviews with experts in the field, STM Daily News Science offers a harmonious blend of factual reporting, analysis, and exploration, making it a go-to source for science enthusiasts and curious minds alike. https://stmdailynews.com/category/science/

Discover more from Daily News

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

unknown

Mysterious Lights Over Oregon: Pilots Report Unusual Aerial Phenomena

Published

1 week ago

December 19, 2024

Rod Washington

This past weekend, the skies of Oregon became the backdrop for an extraordinary event that has both puzzled and dazzled observers. At least four commercial pilots reported encountering unexplained bright lights displaying incredible speeds and erratic movements, renewing interest and debate about aerial phenomena.

The Encounter Details

The first report came from a pilot operating an air ambulance who described a startling experience. A bright, red light zoomed towards his Life Flight plane, only to reverse direction and head back towards the Pacific Ocean at bewildering speeds. The event left the pilot and his crew astounded by the light’s velocity and abrupt maneuvers.

Meanwhile, the pilot of a United Airlines flight over Eugene also reported seeing multiple mysterious objects. These unidentified lights moved vertically and horizontally in patterns that defied easy explanation, with no evidence of military activity in the area at the time.

Adding to the intrigue, the Life Flight pilot noted that one of the lights engaged in a corkscrew pattern, an observation that was corroborated by the aircraft’s collision avoidance system. Air traffic control, maintaining a cautious approach, authorized the pilot to maneuver as necessary to maintain safety.

@stmblog
Spotted strange lights in Oregon’s skies? You’re not alone! UFO sightings are on the rise. #OregonUFOSightings #MysteriousLights 🛸✨ ♬ original sound – STMDailyNews

https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTYVWd4ew

Visual Evidence and Continued Sightings

Throughout these encounters, several pilots managed to capture brief video clips. These clips, although hard to discern due to the dark conditions, show glimpses of the unusual red, circular lights. Another report from two Horizon Airlines pilots further confirmed that whatever was out there wasn’t isolated to a single incident or observer.

Experts Weigh In: Possible Explanations

In the wake of these mystifying sightings, experts have been quick to offer explanations. Douglas Buettner, a scientist who has researched similar incidents, suggests that these lights could likely be flares from Starlink satellites. Starlink, a constellation designed by SpaceX to provide global broadband coverage, has been known to produce vivid optical flares when its panels reflect sunlight.

Buettner’s research, which includes previous pilot reports and observations, supports the idea that this natural reflection of sunlight could explain the phenomena observed. However, he also admits the current data is insufficient to conclusively rule out other possibilities.

Government and Public Response

Following these reports, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed the sighting of unidentified lights by a pilot, although they have not commented further. In a recent Senate hearing, the Pentagon’s director overseeing unidentified anomalous phenomena indicated a spike in such reports since the launch of satellite constellations like Starlink, underscoring the growing interest and concern regarding these observations.

The Broader Implications

While the most likely explanation for these mysterious lights points to satellite flares, the repeated occurrences of such phenomena continue to stir the public’s imagination and scientific curiosity. As we advance in our technological capabilities, the skies above us grow increasingly populated with human-made objects that can sometimes return to us as bewildering spectacles.

In either case, these events serve as a reminder of the vast and unexplored frontiers above us and the ever-present human quest for understanding the mysteries of our universe. Whether they turn out to be mundane or truly otherworldly, the skies over Oregon this weekend have given us all something to ponder and marvel at.

Discover more from Daily News

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

STM Daily News

New Jersey Drone Sightings: Unraveling the Mystery

Published

1 week ago

December 18, 2024

Rod Washington

In recent weeks, New Jersey has increasingly found itself under the watchful eye of mysterious drones. These sightings have captivated residents and officials alike, leading to widespread speculation and calls for action. Below is a comprehensive update on the current situation regarding drone sightings in the Garden State, including insights from government officials and community reactions.

The Surge of Sightings

Reports of large drones—up to six feet in diameter—flying over various regions of New Jersey have surged since mid-November. Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia highlighted the unusual characteristics of these drones, often flying with their lights off and evading detection by traditional methods. Though the origin and purpose of these drones remain unclear, many are convinced that they are not the product of hobbyists.

Notably, many sightings have been concentrated near sensitive locations such as the Picatinny Arsenal, a U.S. military research facility, and Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster. Concerns have only intensified since these drones seem to be operating outside the realm of normal commercial or recreational use.

Government Investigations and Assurances

Federal and state law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), have become actively involved in investigating these sightings. Despite receiving over 5,000 tips, officials state that there is currently no evidence suggesting that these drones pose a threat to national security or public safety. Instead, authorities believe that many of the reported sightings can be attributed to legal drones and other aerial phenomena, including misidentified manned aircraft and even celestial bodies like stars.

Governor Phil Murphy has reinforced this perspective, emphasizing that while drone sightings have raised valid concerns, there’s no immediate threat to public safety. The governor has called for federal assistance in the investigation and urged Congress to empower states with more authority to manage drone activities.

Congressional Response and Public Sentiment

The situation has sparked a debate among lawmakers, with some calling for stricter regulations or even a temporary ban on drone flights in New Jersey. Notably, two congressional representatives have gone so far as to request that the military intervene, highlighting the urgency felt by some constituents. U.S. Rep. Jeff Van Drew even suggested that a foreign entity could be behind the sightings, a theory that has been categorically denied by federal officials.

Public sentiment varies significantly, with many residents expressing concerns about the unknown nature of these drones. James Edwards from Succasunna has pointed out the anxiety gripping the community, noting, “There’s so much that’s unknown,” and calling for a measured response to the sightings.

The View from Washington

At the national level, President Joe Biden has responded to the growing unease, asserting that there is nothing nefarious behind the drone sightings. He emphasized the lawful presence of over one million registered drones operating across the country and assured the public that the situation is being closely monitored.

John Kirby, the White House National Security Advisor, reiterated that the majority of drone sightings do not indicate a coordinated threat and stem from common commercial, hobbyist, or law enforcement operations.

What Lies Ahead?

As investigations continue, officials stress the importance of discerning legitimate threats from unwarranted fears. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing dialogues both in Trenton and Washington to address public concerns and craft appropriate regulatory responses.

While the mystery of the New Jersey drones deepens, it’s vital for residents to remain calm and informed. As the investigation unravels the truths behind these sightings, a collective effort from the community, lawmakers, and federal agencies can help ensure safety and transparency in the skies above New Jersey.

Stay tuned for updates as this story continues to evolve, and be sure to report any new sightings or information to the appropriate authorities. Together, we can navigate the complexities of drone activity in our airspace while embracing this new technological frontier.

Discover more from Daily News

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

unknown

Mysterious Drones Over New Jersey: A Deep Dive into the Sky’s Intrigue

Published

2 weeks ago

December 14, 2024

Rod Washington

AdobeStock 121937645 — Silhouette of drone flying above city at sunset

In recent weeks, New Jersey has found itself at the center of a perplexing enigma—mysterious drones hovering in the night sky over various towns, stirring intrigue and concern among locals and officials alike. Reports of these unidentified flying objects (UFOs) have raised questions regarding their origins, purposes, and safety implications, prompting both state and federal investigations.

Eyewitness Accounts: What Are Residents Seeing?

Reports of these nighttime sightings began surfacing in mid-November. Many residents described seeing groups of drones flying in organized patterns, often noted for their unusual size—some likening them to “SUV-size drones.” Notably, sightings have occurred near sensitive areas such as Picatinny Arsenal, a U.S. military research facility, and even over Donald Trump’s golf course in Bedminster. The objects have also been documented flying over coastal regions, creating a sense of unrest among those who dwell below.

Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia did not hold back in her fears, describing these drones as potentially 6 feet in diameter and sometimes operating with their lights off. The mystery deepens as some local lawmakers gathered with state police and officials from the Department of Homeland Security to discuss the increasing frequency of these sightings which have spanned across New Jersey and even into parts of Pennsylvania.

Official Responses: Federal and State Action

The increasing reports of drone activity have prompted cautious responses from state and federal officials. The New Jersey State Police, alongside the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the FBI, have started to investigate. These agencies are eager to understand the nature of these unidentified flying objects and urge residents to report any suspicious activity.

White House National Security spokesman John Kirby recently stated that a review of the reported sightings has determined that many of these instances may actually involve manned aircraft operating legally. He affirmed that there has been no evidence of foreign involvement or threats to public safety linked to these sightings thus far.

However, not everyone is at ease. Senator Richard Blumenthal from Connecticut has gone so far as to suggest that unidentified drones spotted over sensitive areas should be shot down. At the same time, apprehensions voiced by New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy echo a collective desire for clarity. Murphy stated, “This is something we’re taking deadly seriously,” emphasizing the need for transparency and prompt actions from federal authorities.

@stmblog
Have you spotted mystery drones in New Jersey? 🚁 Join the discussion on sightings and safety! Let’s uncover the truth together! #DronesNJ #mysterydrones visit: https://stmdailynews.com/mysterious-drones-over-new-jersey-a-deep-dive-into-the-skys-intrigue/ ♬ original sound – STMDailyNews

Investigative Challenges: Identifying the Objects

The investigation into these drone sightings faces significant hurdles. Many reports may stem from harmless, legal manned aircraft, according to preliminary assessments. Yet, the mix of anxiety and curiosity has led to calls for stricter regulations on drone flights. Some lawmakers have proposed immediate restrictions, while constituents express frustration at the apparent lack of answers regarding their safety.

Local residents are also contemplating taking matters into their own hands, threatening to shoot down the drones if the government doesn’t provide clarity and action. Such self-directed responses highlight the rising tensions and concerns over privacy and safety.

What Next? Community and Government Collaboration

As the investigation unfolds, collaboration between community members and officials remains crucial. The FBI has urged residents to share any videos, photographs, or information regarding the drone sightings. Local officials emphasize that vigilance from the public can aid in piecing together the mystery.

What’s going on with the drones over New Jersey? Alex Hollings from sanboxx news gives his take on the mystery.

In the meantime, experts in drone technology maintain that many of the sightings could indicate unauthorized drone operation, necessitating clearer laws governing drone usage. The law regulating aircraft does not empower police to intervene effectively; hence, an increasing number of legislators are advocating for an examination and potential amendment of existing laws.

While the origin and purpose of these drones remain unsolved, the experience resonates with the broader conversation around drone technology, personal privacy, and safety in increasingly crowded skies. Local communities eagerly await answers, hoping that soon we can demystify what lurks above in our endless night sky.

Conclusion

The mystery of the drones over New Jersey reflects the intersection of technology, safety, and public concern in today’s society. With investigations still ongoing and community engagement essential, residents and officials alike are hoping for clarity as they navigate this aerial enigma together. In an age where the skies are becoming more crowded, understanding the nature and purpose of these flying machines will be paramount for ensuring both safety and peace of mind.