An EA case for interest in UAPs/UFOs and an idea as to what they are

Abstract

Epistemic status: I’ve been mulling this over for a few months but have done no in-depth research on the topic. I think it’s plausibly true that the case I make below is solid but it’s outlandish enough that, on priors, I discount it significantly. It’s also outlandish enough that I’ve chosen to write this anonymously (at least for now). The Pentagon has now endorsed the idea that UAPs (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena)[1] exist (see this report by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence). Several prominent individuals have expressed support for the idea that UAP are real objects and cannot be explained by current technology.[2] All are uncertain as to what they are. Below are some potential explanations, most supported by the DNI report.