The term "unidentified anomalous phenomena" (UAP) refers to any event in the sky that has other physical characteristics than any known natural phenomenon or aircraft, and thus cannot be classified as one.
Any independent study in this area of research attracts attention among the scientific community. Not only do these studies improve future data collection and analysis, but they also allow for novel discoveries in the scientific and aerial sectors and hold value for national security by providing deepened knowledge of anomalous phenomena.
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration, or NASA, is known for spaceflight and exploration, as well as for its breakthrough studies in different space fields, including UAP, that contribute to the global scientific community.
In 2022, NASA set up an independent UAP study. This article summarizes NASA archival information to analyze the study's main objectives, methods used, and research group composition to provide a better understanding of UAP.
NASA UAP Research: Key Objectives
Analysis of Existing Data
The first objective was to synthesize existing data on UAP. Further analysis of this data was meant to help understand the nature of anomalous phenomena. To meet this goal, NASA attempted to collect the most robust set of data possible from government, commercial organizations, non-profits, and civilians.
Refinement of Data Collection Methods
The collection and analysis of existing UAP data had another big goal – to see what additional information NASA should collect to form a better understanding of unidentified anomalous phenomena. This knowledge helped the researchers to refine existing data collection methods and establish new protocols for collecting and organizing information.
Application of Scientific Methods
To process existing and newly collected data, NASA identified the most effective existing methods of analysis. Additionally, the research group involved experts from data analytics communities who were responsible for the development of new methods of analysis that would provide clear roadmaps and improve observations of UAPs in the future.
Assessment of Physical Limitations
In the study, NASA used existing scientific and analysis methods, as well as new tools that use machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI), to organize available information in clear databases. These data sets aimed to determine and clarify the physical characteristics of UAP for a better understanding of their nature.
Analysis of Airspace Data
In the course of the study, the research group also obtained and analyzed the available civilian airspace data. The gathered information included data from radar systems and air traffic control towers. Its analysis was aimed at detecting UAP and informing of any related risks early.
Improvement of Current Reporting Protocols
Another goal of the study was to create a refined reporting framework. A new (confidential and voluntary) reporting system helped increase civilian reports. NASA also emphasized the existing negative perception around the UAP reports and claimed that its research is also aimed at reducing the stigma that surrounds UAP reporting.
Evidence-Based Suggestions on Air Traffic Management Systems
Lastly, the independent study conducted by NASA aimed to investigate how advancements in data collection, analytics, and reporting can help improve existing air traffic management (ATM) systems. In its reports, NASA provided evidence-based recommendations on how to modify current ATM protocols to acquire more data on past and future UAPs.
NASA Research Group Composition
For this study, NASA gathered a council of experts from aeronautics, technology, and data analytics. The research group consisted of 16 professionals. The chair of the study was astrophysicist David Spergel, currently the president of the Simons Foundation in New York City and a former chair of the astrophysics department at Princeton University.
The expert panel also included:
- Dr. Anamaria Berea
- Dr. Federica Bianco
- Dr. Reggie Brothers
- Dr. Paula Bontempi
- Dr. Jennifer Buss
- Dr. Nadia Drake
- Mr. Mike Gold
- Capt. Scott Kelly
- Dr. Matt Mountain
- Mr. Warren Randolph
- Dr. Walter Scott
- Dr. Joshua Semeter
- Dr. Karlin Toner
- Dr. Shelley Wright
- Dr. David Grinspoon
The responsible federal official who coordinated the work of the group was Daniel Evans, the assistant deputy associate administrator for research at NASA's Science Mission Directorate. The work of the group began on 24 October 2022 and continued for nine months.
Conclusion
Unidentified aerial phenomena have always been an unknown issue surrounded by many uncertainties and limitations. Yet, studying UAPs is important for advancing scientific understanding and providing clearer roadmaps for future research. Such studies are also pivotal for ensuring national and public security.
NASA's independent study on UAP offers a big step forward in this sector. The administration has put significant effort and time into facilitating a better understanding of aerial phenomena and suggesting evidence-based improvements in reporting and air traffic management protocols. Most importantly, NASA stayed true to its baseline principles, such as transparency, openness, and scientific integrity. The administration keeps all its archival information and reports publicly accessible for anyone who wants to see them and facilitate further studies.