How to Spot a UFO: A Beginner’s Guide to Skywatching

Have you ever gazed at the night sky and wondered if that strange light was a UFO? Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs), now often called UAPs (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena), fascinate skywatchers worldwide. With a few tips and tools, anyone can become a UFO spotter. Here’s a beginner’s guide to help you distinguish potential extraterrestrial craft from earthly objects.

Start by finding a dark, open location away from city lights. Use apps like SkyView or Stellarium to identify stars, planets, and satellites, which are often mistaken for UFOs. Look for objects moving erratically, changing colors, or hovering without sound—unlike planes or drones, which have predictable patterns and blinking lights. Keep a notebook or camera handy to document sightings, noting time, location, and weather. Joining groups like MUFON or local astronomy clubs can connect you with others to share and verify observations.

Be skeptical but open-minded. Most “UFOs” turn out to be weather phenomena, aircraft, or even SpaceX satellites. Whether you’re in a big city or a remote village, skywatching offers a thrilling chance to explore the unknown and perhaps catch a glimpse of something extraordinary.