In the past week, mysterious aerial objects, described as drones or orbs, have been spotted across New Jersey and neighboring states, causing widespread intrigue and concern. These sightings began on November 18, 2024, and have continued almost nightly, with reports now extending to New York, Maryland, and Florida[1][2].
The objects, often seen late at night, are reported to be up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) in diameter, operating with their lights off and exhibiting coordinated flight patterns[1]. Some officials have suggested there could be hundreds or even thousands of sightings, with reports of up to 180 occurrences per night[2].
Key developments:
- Location: Initially detected near the Raritan River and Round Valley Reservoir, sightings have spread across New Jersey, including areas near Picatinny Arsenal and Donald Trump’s golf course in Bedminster[1].
- Government response: The U.S. government, including the FBI and Department of Homeland Security, maintains that these objects pose no threat to national security[1][2]. However, the origin and intentions of these aerial phenomena remain unclear.
- Investigations: Federal and state agencies are actively investigating the sightings. The FAA has imposed temporary flight restrictions in certain areas, including over Trump’s Bedminster golf course[6].
- Public reaction: The sightings have sparked numerous conspiracy theories and public discussions, with residents and officials alike seeking answers[3].
- Recent updates: As of December 18, 2024, sightings continue to be reported. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has reached out to President Biden for insights, and newly elected Senator Andy Kim personally investigated the phenomenon[3].
- Possible explanations: While many reports describe drone-like objects, some officials suggest that a significant number of sightings might be misidentified aircraft. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas stated that many sightings could be “a case of mistaken identity”[5].
Despite ongoing investigations and public interest, the nature and origin of these aerial objects remain a mystery, with authorities unable to provide conclusive explanations for the phenomenon[7][8].
References:
[1] https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c62785697v0o
[2] https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/drones-new-jersey-us-sightings-what-know-rcna184367
[3] https://apnews.com/article/drones-new-jersey-buzz-6ef6cfdd5dd6508da22b3c3a1d2f6718
[4] https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/what-to-know-drones-spotted-new-jersey-rcna184218
[5] https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/drones-new-jersey-mystery-objects-iran-ufo-trump-b2664443.html
[6] https://www.npr.org/2024/12/11/nx-s1-5226000/new-jersey-drones
[7] https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2024/12/14/who-is-behind-nj-drone-sightings/76991754007/
[8] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=waRix_q8QUU
[9] https://abcnews.go.com/US/mystery-drones-new-jersey-new-york-timeline-what-officials-said/story?id=116824178
[10] https://www.cbsnews.com/news/drones-new-jersey-what-we-know/
[11] https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/new-jersey-drones-mystery-fbi-homeland-security-rcna183758
[12] https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/mystery-drone-sightings-new-jersey/4054419/