UAP vs. UFO: Understanding the New Terminology

If you’ve heard the term UAP lately and wondered how it differs from UFO, you’re not alone. UFO, or Unidentified Flying Object, has been the go-to phrase since the 1940s, but UAP, or Unidentified Aerial Phenomena, is the newer term adopted by governments and scientists to describe any unexplained object or event in the sky. This shift, led by the U.S. Pentagon’s All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) in 2021 and expanded in 2025 reports, aims to remove the extraterrestrial stigma, encouraging a broader, data-driven approach to investigation.

The change reflects a more serious tone, as UAP encompasses not just flying objects but also atmospheric anomalies, like drones or natural phenomena, that defy explanation. While UFO often conjures images of alien spacecraft, UAP invites a neutral lens, focusing on evidence over speculation—though the public still debates whether the two terms overlap with extraterrestrial possibilities.

For enthusiasts, this evolution means adapting how you report sightings. Whether you use “UFO” or “UAP” on platforms like UFOvni, the key is precision—note details like speed, shape, and duration. As research progresses, this terminology shift could redefine our understanding of the skies, making it an exciting time to explore the unknown.