What Is a UFO? A Beginner’s Guide to Unidentified Flying Objects

Have you ever looked up at the sky and wondered about that strange light moving oddly? A UFO, or Unidentified Flying Object, is any aerial phenomenon or object that cannot be immediately identified by an observer. The term gained fame after pilot Kenneth Arnold’s 1947 sighting of “flying saucers” near Mount Rainier, sparking global curiosity about whether these could be extraterrestrial spacecraft. While UFOs are often linked to aliens in popular culture, they can also include natural events, weather balloons, or military aircraft—anything that defies quick explanation.

The concept evolved over decades, with governments like the U.S. launching projects such as Project Blue Book to investigate thousands of reports, many of which remain unsolved. For beginners, understanding a UFO starts with an open mind—observing, documenting, and reporting what you see can contribute to the ongoing mystery, whether it’s a misidentified plane or something truly otherworldly.

If you’re new to this topic, start by exploring local skywatching opportunities. Websites like UFOvni can guide you with tips and resources, helping you distinguish between a satellite and a potential UFO. The journey into this phenomenon is as much about science as it is about wonder, inviting everyone to look up and question the unknown.