In 1992, multiple witnesses reported over 200 disc-shaped objects silently rising from the surface of Santa Monica Bay, California, before swiftly departing. This incident is part of a larger narrative surrounding unidentified submerged objects (USOs).
Six years later, U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer Charles Howard detailed an encounter with three large white lights underwater while visiting Guantanamo Bay, describing them as round and measuring 10 to 20 feet (3 to 6 meters) in diameter. Howard later shared this experience publicly on the History Channel’s 'UFO Files.'
USO sightings have captivated UFO enthusiasts for years, with reports indicating these objects can breach the air-water boundary and travel at speeds exceeding hundreds of miles per hour. California remains a hotspot for UFO reports, accounting for 68 out of 563 sightings nationwide in July 2019.
Since around 2020, the term 'UFO' has evolved into 'UAP' (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena), reflecting a broader scope of investigation that includes underwater anomalies. This shift is largely due to advocacy from researchers and military officials, emphasizing the need to address threats from both aerial and submerged phenomena.
In July 2022, the Pentagon established the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO), expanding the definition of UAPs to include anomalies in air, water, space, and ground. This change underscores a recognition of underwater UFOs as legitimate concerns.
Despite this, the Pentagon clarified that UAPs do not necessarily indicate extraterrestrial visitation. Many reported phenomena have been attributed to drones, weather balloons, or other explainable natural occurrences.
As of February 2024, AARO is reviewing nearly 80 years of UAP investigation records, concluding that most sightings are misidentifications or commonplace phenomena. The organization aims to standardize reporting and enhance data collection regarding UAPs, including those from underwater environments.
Future reports on USOs and transmedium phenomena are anticipated, with experts stressing the need for substantial evidence to substantiate claims of underwater anomalies.