Alien Outposts Discovered In Antarctica?

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A self-proclaimed UFO researcher has found what he believes to be alien outposts in Antarctica. Posting at a blog and YouTube channel under the moniker "americanbunker," he has "analyzed" satellite photos of Antarctica via Google Earth, and says the photos show UFOs and other creatures.

Instead of an alien invasion or a cover-up by the U.S. Geological Survey (many of the photos were made public by the USGS), there's probably a psychological phenomenon at play here: "Pareidolia" is the scientific term for the common human tendency to find patterns in random shapes. We're especially susceptible to perceiving faces or figures where they aren't .

When you see an elephant in the clouds, a man's face on the moon or UFOs in satellite photos of Antarctica, a more probable explanation is that it's a trick of the mind.

For example, consider this blurry satellite image highlighted again and again by "americanbunker." He says he found the most UFOs and alien outposts, presumably including the ones he thinks are shown in this image, on Ross Island and Beaufort Island in Antarctica's McMurdo Sound.

Pixellated objects in Antarctica as seen by Google Earth. They are likely bumps in terrain casting shadows. (Image credit: american bunker U.S. Geological Survey Google Earth)

Both islands were formed by volcanoes, however, and rocky outcroppings and peaks like the one below are relatively common there. Although it's difficult to say whether this particular formation is what americanbunker is highlighting in the above photo, an object like this is probably casting the mysterious shadows that he has interpreted as an alien base.

Photograph of Castle Rock, a land feature in Antarctica. (Image credit: Antarctic Photo Library, U.S. Antarctic Program)

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Live Science Staff
Live Science Staff
For the science geek in everyone, Live Science offers a fascinating window into the natural and technological world, delivering comprehensive and compelling news and analysis on everything from dinosaur discoveries, archaeological finds and amazing animals to health, innovation and wearable technology. We aim to empower and inspire our readers with the tools needed to understand the world and appreciate its everyday awe.