StarTalk Radio Episode Summary: "The Truth About UAPs with Jon Kosloski"

Podcast Information:

• Title: StarTalk Radio
• Host: Neil deGrasse Tyson
• Guest: John Kosloski, Director of the All Domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO)
• Release Date: August 5, 2025
• Description: In this episode, astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson delves into the intriguing world of Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAPs) with John Kosloski, the director responsible for investigating these mysterious sightings. The discussion navigates through the complexities of UAP detection, data collection, and the scientific methodologies employed to unravel these unexplained occurrences.

1. Introduction to UAP Rebranding

Paul Mercurio [04:23]:
"Why were UFOs rebranded as UAP? The public made UFO synonymous with extraterrestrials, which complicates governmental investigations."

John Kosloski explains that the term UAP (Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena) was adopted to distance governmental agencies from the extraterrestrial assumptions commonly associated with UFOs. This rebranding ensures that investigations remain unbiased and open to various explanations beyond alien involvement.

2. Methods of UAP Detection

John Kosloski [07:09]:
"The most common detection is via human observation, but we're also leveraging cameras, radar, and various sensors to capture these phenomena."
[07:12]

Kosloski outlines the multifaceted approach to detecting UAPs, which includes:

• Human Eyeball Reports: Primary source of initial sightings.
• Camera Surveillance: Utilizing doorbell cams and other stationary cameras to capture visual evidence.
• Radar and Electromagnetic Sensors: Advanced instruments to detect physical objects and their movements.

3. Challenges in Data Collection and Classification

John Kosloski [11:21]:
"There's nothing inherently classified about the anomalous phenomenon. It's often the context of data collection that leads to classification."
[11:21]

The classification of UAP data hinges not on the phenomena themselves but on the sensitivity of the collection methods. For instance, high-fidelity sensors on military platforms may necessitate data classification to protect technological capabilities.

4. Public Involvement and Data Reliability

John Kosloski [14:17]:
"We're preparing to open up public reporting mechanisms to gather high-quality data from citizen scientists."
[14:17]

Kosloski emphasizes the importance of public participation in data collection. With the impending launch of a public reporting platform, individuals will be able to submit media and narratives. This crowdsourced data is crucial for expanding the dataset beyond governmental channels.

However, the reliability of such data poses challenges:

• Verification: Ensuring the authenticity of public submissions.
• Biases: Addressing geographical and confirmation biases that can skew data interpretations.

Guest Comedian [09:15]:
"How do you vet reports from the general public without turning into belief police?"
[09:15]

To mitigate these concerns, Kosloski explains that all reports are initially accepted as sincere data, which are then corroborated through multiple narratives and scientific analysis.

5. Technological Advancements and AI in Analysis

John Kosloski [15:12]:
"We're investing in automation, machine learning, and AI to triage and analyze the vast amount of incoming data."
[15:12]

The integration of artificial intelligence is pivotal for handling over 1,800 cases, with plans to enhance capabilities through:

• Natural Language Processing: To sift through narrative data effectively.
• Pattern Recognition: Identifying correlations and anomalies within the data.

However, Kosloski acknowledges the ongoing challenge of AI-generated fake data and emphasizes the need for robust safeguards to maintain data integrity.

6. Case Studies Illustrating UAP Investigations

Case 1: "Go Fast" Incident [42:19-43:48]

• Description: An F18 Super Hornet pilot encounters a fast-moving object near the surface of the water.
• Analysis: Detailed examination revealed motion parallax effects, indicating the object was likely at 13,000 ft, well above the plane's altitude of 25,000 ft. The phenomenon was consistent with natural objects like birds or balloons, rather than advanced technology.

Quote - John Kosloski [43:32]:
"We don't know what it is, but it's moving at wind speed, making it likely a balloon or similar object."
[43:32]

Case 2: Puerto Rico Object [48:01-50:56]

• Description: A Customs and Border Protection platform observes objects merging and dipping into water via midwave infrared cameras.
• Analysis: Thermal crossover effects made it appear as though objects were interacting with the water. Post-analysis suggested the objects were likely sky lanterns or balloons, launched during local celebrations.

Quote - John Kosloski [50:03]:
"We're not sure what it is, but the behavior aligns with balloons or sky lanterns subject to thermal dynamics."
[50:03]

7. Addressing Psychological Biases and Public Perception

Paul Mercurio [37:17]:
"Is that like a form of confirmation bias?"
[37:17]

The conversation touches upon how psychological factors, such as confirmation bias, influence public reporting and perception of UAPs. Kosloski acknowledges these biases and highlights efforts to educate the public to improve data quality and reduce misinterpretations.

Quote - John Kosloski [52:29]:
"Through transparency and educational materials, we're aiming to build trust and help the public distinguish between real anomalies and misidentifications."
[52:29]

8. Transparency and Building Trust

John Kosloski [52:08]:
"Absolute transparency is our method to build trust with the public."
[52:08]

To foster trust, the AARO is committed to:

• Releasing Videos and Narratives: Sharing raw data and case resolutions with the public.
• Educational Outreach: Providing resources to help individuals understand common misidentifications and recognize genuine anomalies.

Kosloski underscores that transparency is essential for demystifying UAPs and encouraging credible reporting.

9. Future Prospects and Collaborative Efforts

John Kosloski [56:22]:
"The public reporting mechanism is launching soon, and we're aiming to collaborate internationally to enhance our investigative capabilities."
[56:22]

Looking ahead, AARO plans to:

• Expand Public Data Collection: Launch the reporting website by the end of the fiscal year.
• International Collaboration: Work with other countries to aggregate global UAP data.
• Scientific Publications: Introduce a scientific journal in Fiscal Year 26 to disseminate findings and foster academic collaboration.

Guest Comedian [56:53]:
"Maybe you should name your journal through our community!"
[56:53]

While humor interjects, the intent is clear: fostering a collaborative environment between governmental agencies, scientists, and the public.

10. Conclusion and Final Thoughts

John Kosloski [57:12]:
"We're committed to uncovering the truths behind these phenomena through rigorous scientific methods and fostering public engagement."
[57:12]

In wrapping up, Kosloski reiterates the importance of continuous data collection, scientific analysis, and public trust in the quest to understand UAPs. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to stay informed and participate in the ongoing investigation.

Notable Quotes:

• John Kosloski [07:09]:
  "The most common detection is just the human eyeballs... but we're also leveraging cameras, radar, and various sensors to capture these phenomena."

• John Kosloski [15:12]:
  "We're investing in automation, machine learning, and AI to triage and analyze the vast amount of incoming data."

• John Kosloski [43:32]:
  "We don't know what it is, but it's moving at wind speed, making it likely a balloon or similar object."

• John Kosloski [52:29]:
  "Through transparency and educational materials, we're aiming to build trust and help the public distinguish between real anomalies and misidentifications."

• John Kosloski [57:12]:
  "We're committed to uncovering the truths behind these phenomena through rigorous scientific methods and fostering public engagement."

This episode of StarTalk provides an in-depth look into the governmental approach to UAP investigations, highlighting the balance between advanced technological methods and the complexities of public involvement. John Kosloski's insights shed light on the meticulous processes undertaken to ensure that UAP phenomena are studied objectively and transparently, aiming to demystify one of the most intriguing subjects in modern science.