A new and provocative academic paper from Harvard University and the University of Montana has stirred debate by offering unconventional explanations for Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAPs), previously referred to as UFOs.
The study, published in June 2024 in the journal Philosophy and Cosmology, challenges mainstream theories that UAPs are simply extraterrestrial crafts or advanced technology. Instead, the researchers propose a more terrestrial hypothesis.
The paper, titled The Cryptoterrestrial Hypothesis: A Case for Scientific Openness to a Concealed Earthly Explanation for Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena, suggests that UAPs might be operated by ancient, hidden civilisations or future humans, evolving separately from modern humanity. It even considers the possibility of “earthbound angels,” adding a spiritual dimension to the discourse.
Alternative explanations for UAPs: from hidden civilisations to future humans
The authors of the paper, including Harvard psychology researcher Tim Lomas, theologian Brendan Case, and anthropologist Michael Paul Masters, aim to broaden scientific discussion on aliens and UAPs.
They theorise that the mysterious objects could be vessels piloted by ancient Earthly beings, such as intelligent species that have remained hidden in the Earth’s oceans or underground. These beings could include intelligent dinosaurs or another form of advanced humans that have existed in secret.
Another bold theory explored in the paper suggests UAPs could be operated by future humans, traveling back in time to observe their own history while avoiding detection to prevent altering timelines. The theological aspect posits that UAPs might be linked to divine or spiritual entities, reframing the concept of “aliens” as angels.
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Despite some skepticism and criticism, co-author Michael Paul Masters defended the research, stressing the need for open scientific inquiry into such phenomena. “The main point of this work is to make the case for scientific openness,” Masters stated. “We wanted to initiate a discussion between our scientific colleagues, and it certainly sparked media attention.”
UAP research gaining legitimacy
The paper comes at a time when UAP research is gaining legitimacy in the mainstream. Following the release of US Navy footage showing pilots encountering fast-moving, unidentified objects, the Pentagon and US. Congress began openly acknowledging the phenomena. In 2023, Capitol Hill held hearings on the issue, marking a shift from decades of official denial.
Co-author Brendan Case declined to engage with further media attention, citing the overwhelming public response. However, Masters revealed that the paper received over 175,000 downloads from ResearchGate, indicating broad interest. He hinted at future papers exploring the possibility that UAPs are operated by future humans rather than extraterrestrial life (Aliens).
The work has its critics, including David Kyle Johnson, a philosophy professor at King’s College, Pennsylvania, who argues that while speculation is part of scientific progress, claims need to remain grounded in reality. Nevertheless, the authors of the Cryptoterrestrial Hypothesis believe their research is necessary to explore the unexplained and advance scientific understanding of UAPs.
As the debate continues, the field of UAP research is expanding, with more scientists willing to explore unconventional theories that challenge the traditional extraterrestrial narrative.
