From eerie lights in the sky to full-blown alien abductions, there’s no lack of reports that extraterrestrials not only exist but have visited our planet.

While many so-called sightings are easy to write off or explain, some leave even the most skeptical scratching their heads. 

The truth is that several reported alien sightings defy standard explanations. In some cases, there are hundreds of witnesses, and in others, the witnesses are exceptionally credible, often bearing military credentials. 

While that doesn’t mean aliens are real, it certainly makes these sightings more intriguing.

As these 17 events show—three of which California residents might recognize—we’re far from explaining everything that happens in our universe. 

1: The Basel Broadsheet 

Alien sightings aren’t limited to modern history. There are several reports from the ancient world of bizarre astronomical events, and even after humans gained a basic understanding of science and the stars, strange occurrences persisted. 

In 1566, people observed dozens of black and white objects floating in the sky over Basel, Switzerland.

One witness recorded the event in picture form on a document known as “The Basel Broadsheet.” 

2: Mystery Airships

The first publicized UFO sighting in the United States occurred in 1896, according to American Heritage.

Between 6 and 7 PM, hundreds of people in Sacramento, California, reported seeing “an electric arc lamp propelled by some mysterious force.” The next day, it was seen in San Francisco. 

Planes had not yet been invented, and witnesses noted the strange ship traveled into the wind, which meant it could not be a balloon. The San Francisco Chronicle reported the event, initially claiming it was the work of a local, wealthy inventor.

However, the “inventor” later recanted his story, and the Chronicle issued a revised report that left the origin of the mystery ship a mystery. 

3: Betty and Barney Hill 

One of the most well-known and strangest UFO stories is that of Betty and Barney Hill.

The Hills were driving on a dark road in New Hampshire in 1961 when they claimed a bright light began to follow them. 

The Hills claimed they were abducted and are unsure of what happened that night. The next thing they remember, it was daylight, their clothes were torn, and their watches had stopped working. 

4: The Lizard Man

In a Vanity Fair report, psychotherapist Barbara Lamb detailed seeing a reptilian being. Lamb was an avid crop circle researcher who often traveled to England for her studies.

However, the lizard man didn’t appear to her in an English field; it was in her living room in Claremont, California.

She described the creature as being tall with yellow eyes. And, though she admitted she was not typically fond of lizards or snakes, she felt oddly unafraid.

She reached out to touch the reptile man’s hand, and he swiftly disappeared. 

5: The First Flying Saucers

No one can say what private pilot Kenneth Arnold saw as he flew past Mt. Rainier in 1947. Still, his description of the events changed the world’s vocabulary.

It’s thanks to his alien sighting that we have the term “flying saucers.” 

On a pleasant June afternoon, the experienced pilot was searching for a crashed Marine transport plane when he saw a bright flash.

At first, he thought the flash was from the downed plane, but then, as more flashes appeared, Arnold realized it was coming from multiple objects in the air. 

He said he watched as a formation of nine objects, flying faster than any plane was capable at the time, passed Mt. Rainier.

Though he denied ever calling the odd-shaped ships flying saucers, reporters used the term when covering the story.  

6: Zimbabwe School Children 

In 1994, 60 schoolchildren in Zimbabwe reported seeing UFOs near the playground. The odd flying crafts reportedly landed, and children interacted with the aliens inside. 

Though many have dismissed this event as a case of mass hysteria, strange lights were sighted throughout the country at the same time.

Some even reported seeing ships in the air as far away as South Africa. 

7: Britain’s Roswell

Many refer to the Rendlesham Forest Incident as “Britain’s Roswell.”

While some consider it a legend, on par with stories of King Arthur and the Loch Ness Monster, many believe there must be some truth in the tale, especially given the witnesses in question. 

In December of 1980, several U.S. military personnel stationed in the forest reported seeing strange lights. They went to investigate.

What they found may have been an alien spaceship covered in strange hieroglyphs, or it could have all been a prank by the British military.  

8: The Real Roswell

In 1947, the U.S. Army sent out a press release that shook the nation. In it, they said they had recovered a “flying disc” from a ranch near Roswell, New Mexico. 

Reports are conflicted about what really happened in the small New Mexico town, but some things are confirmed. We know a rancher found wreckage on his property, which was brought to the attention of the U.S. Army.

We also know the Army quickly retracted its initial report about finding a flying disc and said, instead, that they’d recovered a weather balloon. 

Many remain skeptical of the Army’s changed report. Theories about what they really found range from a Soviet spy device to actual alien lifeforms. 

9: O’Hare’s Flying Saucer 

The FAA called it a weather phenomenon, but the twelve airline employees who spotted a flying craft over O’Hare International Airport aren’t so sure.

On November 7, 2006, just before a United Airlines flight was set to take off, employees said they saw a metallic shape hovering over the gate. 

They all reported that the shape hung in the air for several minutes before shooting up into the clouds at an unimaginable speed. Oddly, the event did not register on the airport’s radar. 

10: The Melbourne 350 

It was the largest mass sighting of a UFO in Australia, but many still remain skeptical of witness claims.

In the incident known as the Melbourne 350, 350 witnesses at Westall High School, including both students and staff, watched as five planes tried to corral and capture a UFO. 

The planes surrounded the UFO for a few moments before it reportedly fled at breakneck speeds.

Students and teachers claim they were instructed never to speak about the incident. 

11: Broad Haven Primary School

The village of Broad Haven in Wales is sometimes described as the “Bermuda Triangle,” of alien sightings. There are more than 450 reports of extraterrestrial encounters in the small, remote town. 

In 1977, a group of playing school children claimed to see alien lifeforms. Teachers were skeptical of the claims, so they separated the kids and asked each of them to draw what they saw.

All of the children drew the same picture of a flying saucer. 

12: Valentich Vanishes

“That strange aircraft is hovering on top of me again. It is hovering, and it’s not an aircraft.” Those were the last known words of twenty-year-old pilot Frederick Valentich.

Valentich was flying his plane off the coast of Cape Otway in October 1978 when he sent the final transmission to air traffic control.

After those chilling last words, Valentich and his plane disappeared and have never been found. 

13: The Real Men in Black 

It’s said that what happened to Fred Crisman and Harold Dahl inspired The Men in Black movies.

As the story goes, Dahl was with his son and dog on the waters of Puget Sound when they spotted six strange aircraft overhead. Metal debris then fell from the sky, killing Dahl’s dog and injuring his son. 

After Dahl told his work supervisor, Fred Crisman, what happened, men in black suits appeared.

They told them never to speak of the incident again. 

14: Aliens Over the Pentagon

In 1952, seven UFOs appeared in secured airspace over the Pentagon. The event was captured on film, and the crafts registered on radar. 

The U.S. government quickly sent jets to investigate, but as they approached, the unknown aircraft disappeared from the radar.

When the jets were grounded, the UFOs reappeared.  

15: The Exeter UFO

Norman Muscarello was just a scared 18-year-old when he went to the police in Exeter, New Hampshire, to report a UFO. He had been hitchhiking along the highway when eerie red lights came flying towards him.

Muscarello said he jumped into a ditch to avoid being hit. 

When police went to investigate, they surely believed they would uncover a logical explanation. However, they were met with the same red lights traveling at top speeds.

The event became so famous that the town continues to hold a renowned UFO festival each year. 

16: French’s Drowned UFOs

Lieutenant Colonel Richard French was tasked with explaining away the UFO phenomena that so many reported in the 1950s. Unfortunately for him, he went on to witness alien aircraft. 

At a Citizen Hearing on Disclosure in 2013, French revealed he witnessed two downed UFOs in the waters off St. John.

He claimed to see aliens fixing the downed vessels and then flying off. 

17: Commander Fravor’s Tic-Tacs

Retired Navy Commander David Fravor reported seeing “tic-tac-like” flying objects floating in the sky off the coast of Southern California in 2004.

Fravor said advanced ship radar had picked up aerial objects descending at over 80,000 miles per hour, and they had taken to the air to investigate. 

Fravor later testified to the sighting in a hearing with White House lawmakers.

He also spoke about the event in numerous interviews, including 60 Minutes.  

Are There Really Aliens?

Alien sightings have become a part of U.S. culture and now hold a place in modern folklore.

However, their existence is hotly contested. While some believe the evidence of their previous visits is overwhelming, others believe there are more likely explanations. 

According to the Pentagon, there is “no evidence” of UFOs.

In a recent report covering sightings from 1945 to 2022, Pentagon researchers said they “found no evidence that any U.S. government investigation, academic-sponsored research, or official review panel has confirmed that any sighting of a UAP represented extraterrestrial technology.” 

Weirdest Laws in Each State

Most Americans are clear on treating thy neighbor as they’d want to be treated to reduce the chance of fines and jail time. But did you know you could be breaking the law by carrying an ice cream cone in your pocket? These are the weirdest laws in each state, most of which courts (thankfully!) no longer enforce.

Weirdest Laws in Each State That’ll Make You Chuckle

11 Poor Hygiene Habits Americans Don’t Know They Have

Americans believe in cleanliness, but we may not be as hygienic as we think. These eleven habits reveal where many Americans fail in the hygiene department.

11 Poor Hygiene Habits Americans Don’t Know They Have

Imagine a place where the subway is a classroom for life skills, every street corner has its own story, and a perfectly toasted bagel is a work of art.

Whether you were born in New York City or fell in love with the chaos and decided to move there, being a New Yorker means having a unique set of instincts and passions that only true city dwellers understand.

Subway Savvy

Riding the subway isn’t just a way to get from one place to another—it’s a lifestyle. New Yorkers know that a daily subway ride is part of the routine. Whether you’re dodging the occasional delay or navigating the busy platforms, true New Yorkers learn to (mostly) love the system.

Over three million people ride the NYC subway every day, according to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority. You can bet it’s easy to pick out which passengers are the locals and which are tourists.

Every real New Yorker has their favorite subway line and preferred time to ride. You might not appreciate the rattling trains and crowded platforms if you aren’t used to it.

But for true New Yorkers, these little challenges are just part of the city’s charm.

Late-Night Eats

In a city that never sleeps, neither do its food options. New Yorkers know that the best meals often happen in the middle of the night.

Whether it’s a greasy slice of pizza or a steaming bowl of ramen, late-night food joints are a must.

Late-night eats aren’t just about filling your stomach—they’re about the culture. In New York, grabbing a bite at 3 a.m. is normal.

The city offers a mix of world flavors and traditions that can be especially appreciated on these nocturnal adventures. It’s a reminder that while the rest of the country winds down, New Yorkers are just getting started.

Park Culture

New York City’s parks are more than just patches of green—they’re community hubs. Central Park, for instance, isn’t only famous for its scenic beauty; it’s a gathering place for joggers, picnickers, and musicians.

The Central Park Conservancy reports that Central Park alone welcomes over 42 million people every year.

Every park has its own personality and local rules that New Yorkers understand without question. Whether you’re watching a game of pickup basketball or joining a free outdoor concert, NYC’s parks are where you see the city’s pulse.

Street Smarts

New York City streets are a lesson in survival and quick thinking. From hailing a cab in a busy intersection to navigating through crowded sidewalks, real New Yorkers know to be alert and confident.

Outsiders might find the fast pace overwhelming, but New Yorkers take it in stride. Every block holds its own surprises and challenges that build street smarts over time.

This everyday hustle isn’t about being rude—it’s about staying safe and efficient. New Yorkers know the best shortcuts and hidden gems along the way, and they dodge tourist traps like pros.

Urban Etiquette

Living in New York City means knowing a special set of unwritten rules. New Yorkers have a unique etiquette when it comes to sharing space, especially in tight spots like the subway or crowded sidewalks.

There’s an unspoken understanding about not stopping abruptly, moving with purpose, and respecting personal space, even in the busiest areas.

Urban etiquette is also seen in the way people handle everyday interactions. You might exchange a quick nod or smile with a fellow commuter without saying a word. It’s a balance between friendliness and focus.

Outsiders may find the pace brisk, but for New Yorkers, it’s the right rhythm that keeps the city moving.

Coffee and Bagels

A true New Yorker knows that coffee and bagels are more than just breakfast—they’re a way of life. Many mornings start with a hot cup of joe and a perfectly toasted bagel.

According to a Betway study, New Yorkers consume 111 bagels per person each year. The pairing of coffee and bagels isn’t found anywhere else in quite the same way. It’s not only about the taste but also about the experience.

Many small, family-run bakeries serve bagels that have been perfected over generations.

And the coffee?

It’s strong, bold, and as fast-paced as the city itself. It’s a perfect match for those busy mornings and long days.

Neighborhood Pride

Every neighborhood in New York has its own vibe and story. Whether you’re from Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, or the Bronx, you know the streets where you grew up.

New Yorkers take pride in their local spots, knowing where the best pizza is or which block has the coolest murals.

This strong neighborhood spirit also brings residents together. Block parties, local events, and community gatherings are common in many areas, offering a chance to celebrate the unique culture of each neighborhood.

It’s a reminder that while New York is one big city, it is also a collection of many small, tightly-knit communities that each add to its overall charm.

Street Food Culture

New York’s street food scene is as vibrant and diverse as the city itself. Food trucks and street vendors offer everything from hot dogs and pretzels to exotic dishes from around the world.

The hustle and bustle of these food carts is a daily reminder of the melting pot that New York truly is.

Many New Yorkers swear by their favorite food truck or corner vendor. According to the Immigration Research Initiative, there are over 20,000 licensed street food vendors alone across the city.

The experience of grabbing a bite on the go is not just about the food—it’s about feeling connected to the vibrant street culture that defines New York.

Sports Passion

Sports are a big deal in New York, and the city’s residents take their teams very seriously. The energy at sports bars in NYC and live stadium events is unmatched.

The passion for teams like the Yankees, Mets, Knicks, and Giants is a unifying force across the boroughs.

New York’s sports fans are known for their loyalty and spirited debates. Game days bring communities together, whether you’re cheering in a packed bar or watching from home.

It’s not just about the win or loss—it’s about being part of a tradition that makes New York unique.

Street Art Scene

The streets of New York are like an open-air art gallery, filled with murals, graffiti, and sculptures that tell the city’s story.

Walking down a busy avenue, you might come across a colorful mural that sparks a conversation or inspires you to look at the city in a new way.

Real New Yorkers know street art isn’t just decoration—it’s a form of expression and a testament to the city’s creative spirit.

Artists from many backgrounds contribute to NYC’s rich tapestry of visual stories that are ever-changing. The art on the streets reflects the diverse voices and experiences of New Yorkers, making each neighborhood a unique canvas of creativity.

Resilience and Adaptability

New Yorkers are known for their resilience. The city has faced its share of challenges—from harsh weather to 9/11 to economic ups and downs—but its people always find a way to bounce back.

Whether it’s a snowy winter or a rainy day, long-term New Yorkers adapt and keep moving forward. This toughness is part of what makes the city so inspiring.

Resilience is more than just a word in New York; it’s a way of life.

This adaptability not only helps locals survive but also brings the community closer, creating a city that’s as strong as it is vibrant.

10 New York City Facts Outsiders Would Never Guess Are True

There’s more to the Big Apple than meets the average tourist’s eye. From quirky historical tidbits to mind-boggling statistics, these are surprising facts about New York City that non-locals can’t wrap their heads around.

10 New York City Facts Outsiders Would Never Guess Are True

8 Oh-So-True Differences Between Miamians and New Yorkers

From the climate to how locals spend their weekends, Miamians and New Yorkers often feel like they’re living on different planets. Whether you call one of these cities home or have visited them, we guarantee we’ll leave you nodding your head and chuckling at how stark and undeniably true these differences are.

8 Oh-So-True Differences Between Miamians and New Yorkers

Keeping up with strategies to stretch your dollars at the gas pump is important, especially for Californians who spend dozens of hours in traffic each month.

Another perk? Getting the most out of your fuel means reducing your carbon footprint, a win-win for your wallet and our planet.

Here, we delve into some savvy yet often overlooked methods to reduce gas expenses using a combination of statistics and personal experience.

1: Choose Your Refill Days Carefully

Many Americans aren’t aware that the day of the week that you choose to fill your tank can affect how much money you’re spending.

According to a gas price comparison app GasBuddy, Monday is the best day of the week to buy gas if you’re looking for low prices. Friday is the second-best day.

Remember, this only applies to averages; Many factors can impact gas prices on any given day. But statistically, Mondays are your safest bet.

2: Make the Most Out of Apps

Speaking of price comparisons, many app options are available right on your smartphone. Apps such as GasBuddy, Fuel Forward, Gas Guru, Waze, and AAA Mobile make finding affordable gas prices easier.

Because prices can vary from gas station to gas station just blocks or even across the street from each other, having these apps handy can help you save money and time.

Spare yourself the weekly drive around the neighborhood for the cheapest station.

3: Regular or Premium?

The labels of “regular gas” and “premium gas” are a little misleading. The key difference lies in the octane rating, a way to measure the fuel’s tendency to ignite from the compression force of the piston.  

Unless you’re driving a high-performance car that specifically calls for premium gas, there’s little benefit to using it in a standard consumer car.

It doesn’t burn cleaner, nor is it more energy efficient. It just costs more.

4: Avoid Topping Off Your Tank

Not only does trying to fill your gas tank to the very top cost you extra money, but it can also be harmful to your vehicle. It can damage the onboard refueling vapor recovery system (ORVR), a charcoal canister that collects and absorbs fuel vapor during the refueling process.

The ORVR is typically designed to last the full lifetime of your car.

However, topping off too often can saturate the system, requiring expensive repairs. So next time you’re at the pump, don’t worry about catching that perfect even dollar amount!

5: Tighten Your Gas Cap

Another tip for saving money and improving safety: Make sure your gas cap is adequately tightened after refueling. Leaving it too loose or off too long can allow vapor to escape into the air.

Most modern vehicles come with an alert light or message when your gas cap isn’t tight enough, but you should always check it yourself at every refuel.

6: Opt for Little Towns

Gas stations make a point to target people who are traveling long distances and have fewer options.

It’s common to see higher gas prices in major cities, just off highway exits, and near airports.

If you need to refuel while on a road trip, consider taking a little detour through the town rather than filling up at the first gas station off the exit. This way, you can save money and get the most sightseeing out of your trip!

7: Join a Gas Loyalty Program

Most gas brands and some grocery stores offer loyalty programs with discounts on gas and cash back on store purchases and car washes.

The premise is simple: The more you spend, the more points you earn and the more you save in the long run.

If you frequently use a particular gas station brand, joining its loyalty program is worth considering. Just keep in mind that your points only apply to that specific company.

8: Get a Gas Rewards Credit Card

Alternatively, you can get a gas rewards credit card that works anywhere through your bank of choice. Gas rewards cards earn rewards points or cash back for each dollar spent on gas, typically at a rate of 3% to 5%.

There’s also that lovely welcome bonus!

But as with any credit card, always shop around and read the fine print. Consider rules and caps, the card’s annual percentage rate (APR), and any additional fees.

9: Don’t Wait Until You’re Almost Out

Waiting until the last possible moment to get gas is not only a risky gamble for getting stranded somewhere, but it also limits your options.

You don’t want to be in a situation where you’re so desperate for gas that you must accept the nearest station, which could be nonsensically expensive.

Once that low fuel light comes on, it’s time to listen. Don’t be responsible for limiting your own options.

10: Carpooling is Cool

In some cases, leaving your vehicle behind altogether can be the best option.

Why take two cars if you’re all heading the same way anyway? 

Get to know your neighbors and your coworkers. Take turns driving and split the gas bill. Besides, isn’t traveling more fun when you have company?

11: Consider Different Payment Methods

Certain gas stations offer a lower price if you pay with cash instead of using a credit card. You can sometimes save between 10 to 15 cents on the gallon, occasionally even more.

That said, keep in mind your cash back credit card could offer similar rewards.

Take the time to do a little math and calculate whether it’s cheaper to pay with cash or make use of your credit card’s cash back program.

12: Check Your Tire Pressure

There’s never a bad time to check the air pressure on your tires. Having even one slightly deflated tire can negatively affect how smoothly your vehicle runs.

This means that your car requires more power (aka gas) to get going.

Checking your tire pressure is especially important when traveling long distances, where a flat tire would be an extra-big inconvenience. Always keep a spare tire handy!

13: Slow Down

Flat tires are a bad way to slow down; avoiding being in a hurry to get where you’re going is a good way. That’s because the faster you drive, the more gas your vehicle guzzles.

By adopting more eco-friendly driving habits, you not only save money but also reduce your carbon footprint.

Long stretches of highway can be tempting to speed through, but for the biggest gas-saving benefits, stay below 75 mph. Even better, keep your lead foot driving below 65 mph.

14: Lighten Your Load

Car clutter isn’t just an aesthetic concern; it also affects fuel efficiency. Remove unnecessary items from your vehicle, especially heavy ones.

Every pound of excess means higher energy expenditure, so streamline your car’s cargo to maximize fuel savings.

As convenient as it might seem, your car’s trunk isn’t a good storage space. It’s just weighing you down.

15: Plan Your Trips Ahead of Time

Strategically planning your routes can help minimize fuel consumption. Combine multiple errands into a single trip to reduce needless driving.

Check traffic conditions beforehand and consider alternative routes that are shorter or less congested.

Avoid rush hour traffic whenever possible, as frequent stops and slow-moving traffic can burn unnecessary fuel. Sometimes it’s worth avoiding the highway altogether.

9 Times in History When Gas Prices Spiked to Crazy High Levels

The frustration you feel when pulling up to the pump and seeing a higher price is nothing new. Gas prices have had peaks and valleys since World War II, and they’ve disrupted Americans’ lives many times. 

9 Times in History When Gas Prices Spiked to Crazy High Levels

“I’m Tipped Out”

The tip jar, or worse, the tip screen, has become a ubiquitous part of American life. These are some of the top reasons Americans don’t want to tip anymore.

“I’m Tipped Out.” 11 Reasons Americans No Longer Want To Tip