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I’m an astronomer and I think aliens may be out there – but UFO sightings aren’t persuasive
Surveys indicate that nearly half of Americans believe in UFOs and alien visits, despite scientists claiming these views lack substantial evidence and can often be explained by mundane phenomena.
Chris Impey, University of Arizona
If intelligent aliens visit the Earth, it would be one of the most profound events in human history.
Surveys show that nearly half of Americans believe that aliens have visited the Earth, either in the ancient past or recently. That percentage has been increasing. Belief in alien visitation is greater than belief that Bigfoot is a real creature, but less than belief that places can be haunted by spirits.
Scientists dismiss these beliefs as not representing real physical phenomena. They don’t deny the existence of intelligent aliens. But they set a high bar for proof that we’ve been visited by creatures from another star system. As Carl Sagan said, “Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence.”
I’m a professor of astronomy who has written extensively on the search for life in the universe. I also teach a free online class on astrobiology. Full disclosure: I have not personally seen a UFO.
Unidentified flying objects
UFO means unidentified flying object. Nothing more, nothing less.
There’s a long history of UFO sightings. Air Force studies of UFOs have been going on since the 1940s. In the United States, “ground zero” for UFOs occurred in 1947 in Roswell, New Mexico. The fact that the Roswell incident was soon explained as the crash landing of a military high-altitude balloon didn’t stem a tide of new sightings. The majority of UFOs appear to people in the United States. It’s curious that Asia and Africa have so few sightings despite their large populations, and even more surprising that the sightings stop at the Canadian and Mexican borders.
Most UFOs have mundane explanations. Over half can be attributed to meteors, fireballs and the planet Venus. Such bright objects are familiar to astronomers but are often not recognized by members of the public. Reports of visits from UFOs inexplicably peaked about six years ago.
Many people who say they have seen UFOs are either dog walkers or smokers. Why? Because they’re outside the most. Sightings concentrate in evening hours, particularly on Fridays, when many people are relaxing with one or more drinks.
A few people, like former NASA employee James Oberg, have the fortitude to track down and find conventional explanations for decades of UFO sightings. Most astronomers find the hypothesis of alien visits implausible, so they concentrate their energy on the exciting scientific search for life beyond the Earth. https://www.youtube.com/embed/lAopNJMbFEI?wmode=transparent&start=0 Most UFO sightings have been in the United States.
Are we alone?
While UFOs continue to swirl in the popular culture, scientists are trying to answer the big question that is raised by UFOs: Are we alone?
Astronomers have discovered over 4,000 exoplanets, or planets orbiting other stars, a number that doubles every two years. Some of these exoplanets are considered habitable, since they are close to the Earth’s mass and at the right distance from their stars to have water on their surfaces. The nearest of these habitable planets are less than 20 light years away, in our cosmic “back yard.” Extrapolating from these results leads to a projection of 300 million habitable worlds in our galaxy. Each of these Earth-like planets is a potential biological experiment, and there have been billions of years since they formed for life to develop and for intelligence and technology to emerge.
Astronomers are very confident there is life beyond the Earth. As astronomer and ace exoplanet-hunter Geoff Marcy, puts it, “The universe is apparently bulging at the seams with the ingredients of biology.” There are many steps in the progression from Earths with suitable conditions for life to intelligent aliens hopping from star to star. Astronomers use the Drake Equation to estimate the number of technological alien civilizations in our galaxy. There are many uncertainties in the Drake Equation, but interpreting it in the light of recent exoplanet discoveries makes it very unlikely that we are the only, or the first, advanced civilization.
This confidence has fueled an active search for intelligent life, which has been unsuccessful so far. So researchers have recast the question “Are we alone?” to “Where are they?”
The absence of evidence for intelligent aliens is called the Fermi Paradox. Even if intelligent aliens do exist, there are a number of reasons why we might not have found them and they might not have found us. Scientists do not discount the idea of aliens. But they aren’t convinced by the evidence to date because it is unreliable, or because there are so many other more mundane explanations.
Modern myth and religion
UFOs are part of the landscape of conspiracy theories, including accounts of abduction by aliens and crop circles created by aliens. I remain skeptical that intelligent beings with vastly superior technology would travel trillion of miles just to press down our wheat.
It’s useful to consider UFOs as a cultural phenomenon. Diana Pasulka, a professor at the University of North Carolina, notes that myths and religions are both means for dealing with unimaginable experiences. To my mind, UFOs have become a kind of new American religion.
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So no, I don’t think belief in UFOs is crazy, because some flying objects are unidentified, and the existence of intelligent aliens is scientifically plausible.
But a study of young adults did find that UFO belief is associated with schizotypal personality, a tendency toward social anxiety, paranoid ideas and transient psychosis. If you believe in UFOs, you might look at what other unconventional beliefs you have.
I’m not signing on to the UFO “religion,” so call me an agnostic. I recall the aphorism popularized by Carl Sagan, “It pays to keep an open mind, but not so open your brains fall out.”
Chris Impey, University Distinguished Professor of Astronomy, University of Arizona
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/
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Exciting news is on the horizon for commuters in the Santa Barbara and Goleta area! After years of planning and anticipation, the Metrolink commuter train service is set to launch this fall, providing a new, efficient way to travel between Ventura County and Santa Barbara County. With the increasing focus on alternative transportation options, this project represents a significant step forward for our communities and environment.
The Journey Begins
The Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG) is at the forefront of this initiative, fulfilling a promise made to voters who approved a funding tax aimed at both widening the freeway and exploring innovative transportation alternatives. Originally considered along with Amtrak, the decision to partner with Metrolink emerged, as their schedules proved more conducive to the commuter needs of the area.
Metrolink’s plan is to operate a streamlined route starting from Moorpark, with stops in our beautiful Santa Barbara and Goleta, avoiding the timing conflicts that hampered the Amtrak discussions. Aaron Bonfilio, SBCAG’s Director of Multimodal Programs, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, saying, “working with them to develop this agreement is critical to the next step. And that’s what this is all about.”
A Convenient Ride
Imagine leaving Oxnard at a crisp 7 a.m. and arriving in Santa Barbara by 7:51 a.m., or reaching Goleta shortly after at 8:03 a.m. The convenience of this service is striking, with additional afternoon departures that will surely benefit daily commuters. Goleta Mayor Paula Perotte expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “Oh, that’s totally reasonable,” highlighting the strategic scheduling designed to meet local needs.
Riders can look forward to a brand new train depot in Goleta, currently under construction, with daily bus connections to enhance accessibility. Bonfilio mentioned the multiple options available through the Coastal Express, providing around 20 trips in both directions each morning and afternoon.
An Affordable and Productive Commute
The introductory round-trip fare of just $10, or $5 in each direction, is a refreshing incentive intended to encourage residents to leave their cars behind. It’s not only planet-friendly but wallet-friendly, too! For those opting to work during their commute, Mayor Perotte noted that riding the train may even allow workers to log their commute time since they can be productive on their laptops while on board.
Initial projections show around 200 daily riders, and with a capacity for over 500, there’s plenty of room for growth. “I think once people get used to riding the train, they’re going to love it,” said Mayor Perotte, sharing her vision of creating a new commuting habit that moves people away from sitting in traffic.
Ready to Roll
SBCAG is currently finalizing agreements to ensure everything is in place before the fall launch, paving the way for an exciting new chapter in commuting for Santa Barbara and Goleta residents. This initiative not only represents a practical solution to transportation challenges but also offers a glimpse into a future where public transit continues to evolve.
In closing, let’s prepare to say goodbye to traffic woes and hello to the ease and joy of train travel. Get ready to hop on the Metrolink and enjoy the ride into a more connected and sustainable future! 🚆✨
STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.
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In a significant health alert, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has upgraded the recall of Costco’s Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon to a Class I designation, indicating a serious health risk. This recall follows the discovery of Listeria monocytogenes during routine laboratory testing.
Originally announced in late October, the recall involved 111 cases of smoked salmon packaged in twin 12-ounce units, with a UPC number of 0 96619 25697 6 and a lot number of 8512801270. The affected products have a best-by date of November 13, 2024, and were distributed between October 9 and October 13, 2024, specifically to Costco locations in Florida.
Listeria monocytogenes is known to cause listeriosis, a severe infection that can result in serious health complications or even death, especially among vulnerable populations such as pregnant individuals, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Although no illnesses have been reported in connection with this product, consumers are advised to check their freezers for these recalled items.
Costco is urging customers who purchased this product to return it for a full refund.
For your safety, the FDA reminds consumers that Listeria can be found in a variety of foods, particularly raw or smoked seafood, unpasteurized dairy products, and deli meats. If you suspect you may have consumed contaminated food, please consult with a healthcare professional.
Stay safe and informed by regularly checking for updates on food recalls from reliable sources.
Related links:
The FDA Issued a Class I Recall on Costco’s Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon https://www.foodandwine.com/costco-kirkland-signature-smoked-salmon-class-i-recall-listeria-monocytogenes-8780336
https://www.fda.gov/food/foodborne-pathogens/listeria-listeriosis
STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.
Groundbreaking for a Sustainable Future: LA Metro’s Southeast Gateway Line Light Rail Project
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Lifestyle
Newsweek Names Delta Dental of California One of America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity 2025
Annual ranking recognizes companies fostering inclusion and championing diversity based on anonymous employee feedback, public data, and third-party research.
SAN FRANCISCO /PRNewswire/ — Delta Dental of California and Affiliates, the leading dental insurance provider, has been recognized by Newsweek as one of America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity in 2025. This distinguished award is presented by Newsweek and Plant-A Insights Group to recognize U.S. companies across industries that prioritize fostering diversity and inclusive workplace cultures.
“Our people are our greatest asset,” said Brian Sherman, executive vice president and chief people officer of Delta Dental of California and Affiliates. “This recognition reflects our deep commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs that support and celebrate the unique perspectives and contributions of our employees.”
America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity is an annual ranking determined by a rigorous evaluation of public data, HR insights, and anonymous employee surveys. The list honors organizations with over 1,000 employees that demonstrate a meaningful commitment to offering distinctive company cultures inclusive of backgrounds and demographics, including age group, race, cultures, and sexual orientations. Research suggests about 80 percent of U.S. workers believe it’s important for companies to create inclusive cultures.
“As companies in the United States continue to navigate the evolving dynamics of the workplace, diversity remains a cornerstone of organizational success and social responsibility,” said Nancy Cooper, global editor in chief of Newsweek. “Newsweek and market-data research firm Plant-A Insights are proud to introduce ‘America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity 2025,’ highlighting companies committed to building inclusive workplaces.”
Delta Dental of California received a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars for its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion practices in 2024. The company has also been recognized with other Newsweek accolades, including America’s Greatest Workplaces 2023, America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity 2023, and Americas Greatest Workplaces for Parents and Families 2023.
Delta Dental is committed to providing consistent, quality access to oral health care, improving education and driving lasting policy changes to address systemic issues. To learn more about what makes Delta Dental of California and Affiliates one of the best employers in the U.S., visit our career page.
About Delta Dental of California and Affiliates
Since 1955, Delta Dental of California and Affiliates has offered comprehensive, high-quality oral health care coverage to millions of enrollees and built the strongest network of dental providers in the country. The Delta Dental of California enterprise includes its affiliates Delta Dental Insurance Company, Delta Dental of Pennsylvania, Delta Dental of New York, Inc., as well as the national DeltaCare USA network, and provides dental benefits to more than 31 million people across 15 states and the District of Columbia.* All are members of the Delta Dental Plans Association based in Chicago, Illinois, the not-for-profit national association that through a national network of Delta Dental companies collectively covers millions of people nationwide. Delta Dental is a registered trademark of Delta Dental Plans Association.
For more information about Delta Dental of California and Affiliates, please visit www.deltadentalins.com
*Delta Dental of California and Affiliates’ operating areas encompass Alabama, California, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Montana, Nevada, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, Utah, West Virginia and the District of Columbia, as well as Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.
SOURCE Delta Dental of California
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