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If the files contain a confirmed extraterrestrial being, he jokes, no documents would be necessary — the proof would speak for itself.

Tyson argues that many reported sightings can be attributed to unfamiliarity with atmospheric optics, astronomical objects or military technology. In his view, the human tendency to fill knowledge gaps with dramatic explanations often leads to what he calls “aliens of our ignorance.”

In today’s hyperconnected world — where billions of photos and videos are uploaded daily — Tyson also questions how an alien presence could remain successfully hidden.

The “Giggle Factor” and Serious Science

Shelly Wright of the University of California San Diego acknowledges that discussions about UFOs often carry a “giggle factor,” even among scientists. Yet she believes serious inquiry into unexplained phenomena is worthwhile.

Wright points out that much of the data surrounding UAP incidents involves sensitive military surveillance systems. That means many released documents could be heavily redacted to protect national security.

Still, older materials might be declassified without compromising defense capabilities. If so, modern analytical tools could allow researchers to reexamine decades-old data in new ways.

Microbes, Not Martians

For Janna Levin, a professor of physics and astronomy at Barnard College, the real scientific excitement lies not in humanoid visitors, but in microbes.

Astronomers searching for life aren’t necessarily looking for little green beings stepping off spacecraft. Instead, they’re hunting for microscopic life forms — the kind that sparked biology on Earth billions of years ago.

Even within our own solar system, researchers are studying Mars, Europa and Enceladus for signs of microbial activity. If any released documents contain credible evidence of biological traces — even ancient ones — that would be revolutionary.

But advanced alien technology? Levin says scientists aren’t expecting that.

The Galileo Project and the Search for the Truly Anomalous

Avi Loeb, a Harvard astrophysicist and founder of the Galileo Project, is more open to the possibility that a small fraction of cases could defy easy explanation.

Loeb argues that most UAP incidents likely have conventional explanations. However, he believes the scientific method demands that researchers examine outliers carefully.

If even a handful of documented cases appear to operate beyond known human capabilities — and withstand rigorous scrutiny — that would merit serious investigation.