In December, numerous reports of unidentified flying objects resembling drones surfaced across New Jersey, sparking widespread curiosity and fear. Some residents worry these drones signify they are being spied on in their daily lives, despite repeated assurances from authorities that nothing malicious has occurred.
“First, a Chinese spy balloon drifted across U.S. airspace for a week. Now, unidentified drones are flying over New Jersey, avoiding radar detection. Gaps in our airspace are being exploited, and because of it, the safety of Americans is at risk,” wrote New Jersey Representative Jeff Van Drew, amplifying concerns on social media.
However, government officials have provided alternative explanations. According to the White House National Security Communications Adviser John Kirby, many of the sightings are likely of piloted aircraft operating legally rather than actual drones. Additionally, the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security have stated they have found no evidence that these objects pose a national security threat or have entered restricted airspace.
Still, these sightings have ignited a mix of fear and humor among the public. Former NFL kicker Lawrence Tynes joked on X, “The drones in New Jersey can easily be explained. Teams are clearly spying on the Jets and Giants practices, which is why they have struggled this season.”
But how has this situation impacted the Friends Academy community? David Chen, a member of the FA Class of 2025, shared his unsettling experience during a flight home from winter break. From his window seat, he noticed stationary lights in the sky that didn’t make any logical sense(photo below). “It was the scariest plane ride of my life,” he recounted, describing the event as “silent shock.” While his reaction may seem intense, it highlights the widespread unease surrounding the idea of constant surveillance.
The debate persists: Are these sightings a harmless misunderstanding or a sign of deeper issues, such as surveillance and airspace vulnerabilities? The mysterious fog seen recently (a topic for another time) only adds to the growing speculation.
What do you think about these mysterious objects? Are they cause for concern, or has this all been blown out of proportion? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
