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Mon Dec 16 2024

Don't be alarmed: the mysterious drones over New Jersey may not be as enigmatic as they seem.

It is unlikely that a drone invasion will occur.

Currently, drone sightings have become an activity that attracts attention, especially on the east coast of the United States. After hearing the characteristic buzzing of a drone, many people scan the sky for movements that may reveal its presence. This interest in drones is not new for some enthusiasts who, like the author, enjoy flying these devices in their leisure time while trying to identify specific DJI models that tend to be more common under 250 grams.

Recently, the number of reported sightings has increased significantly. On platforms like TikTok, videos showcasing large drones, even five or six feet in diameter, being used for various commercial applications, from surveillance to package delivery, are circulating. In areas like New York, the phenomenon has become increasingly common, although some observers still do not feel the urgency to engage in the search for these flying devices.

On a recent clear night, the author and his family were enjoying stargazing when they noticed the appearance of satellites in the sky. This experience made them reflect on the possibility that the lights were not necessarily drones, suggesting that many sightings may be misinterpreted. As he argues, this could be the result of drone testing conducted by government entities or companies seeking to assess the operation of aerial fleets at night.

It is important to note that large drones are not easy to operate, especially at night, when greater experience is required. Furthermore, the idea that these drones could be from foreign threats is considered unlikely, as, unless they are military-grade, they would not travel long distances to hover over residential areas.

As the number of nighttime flights by hobbyist operators increases, there is a risk of amplifying concerns about a supposed "drone invasion." While some argue that a faster and more efficient response from authorities is needed regarding this situation, the reality is that many of the objects in the sky are not drones but rather planes, helicopters, or satellites.

Finally, it would be wise for the government to establish a more rigorous tracking system for any device that takes off in public airspace. Confusion and panic surrounding drones will continue to grow if the concerns of the public are not addressed, which could lead to extreme and dangerous actions.