The upcoming UAP hearing on November 13, 2024, has been generating significant anticipation among those following developments in the study and disclosure of unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP). The hearing will take place at 2154 Rayburn House Office Building at 11:30 am under the auspices of the Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Government Innovation subcommittee, alongside the National Security, the Border, and Foreign Affairs subcommittee. Four distinguished witnesses have been named to testify, each bringing unique expertise and perspectives that could shed light on the government’s understanding of UAPs. Here’s what we know about them based on public information, their LinkedIn profiles, and past statements.
1. Louis Elizondo – Former DoD Special Agent
Louis Elizondo is perhaps the most recognisable figure among the witnesses. As the former head of the Pentagon’s Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program (AATIP), he played a pivotal role in bringing public attention to the government’s interest in UAPs. According to his LinkedIn, Elizondo’s background spans decades of work in national security, counterintelligence, and special operations. His time leading AATIP marked a turning point in transparency efforts regarding UAP phenomena, as it culminated in the release of several declassified videos showcasing unexplained aerial encounters by military pilots.
Publicly, Elizondo has been vocal about the necessity for greater governmental openness regarding UAPs. He has stated that the phenomenon has potential implications for both national security and scientific exploration. Given his firsthand experience with confidential Pentagon investigations, his testimony could provide critical insights into what the U.S. government already knows and what might remain hidden.
2. Rear Admiral Tim Gallaudet – Retired U.S. Navy Rear Admiral
Rear Admiral Tim Gallaudet’s career boasts an impressive blend of military and scientific credentials. As a former oceanographer of the Navy and a specialist in meteorology, Gallaudet brings an authoritative voice on scientific analysis, operational planning, and national defence. His media profile highlights his tenure as the Acting Undersecretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere and his work on various scientific and security initiatives.
Though Gallaudet has not been as outspoken about UAPs as Elizondo, his unique background suggests he could address the potential atmospheric and environmental factors at play during UAP sightings - especially USOs (Unidentified Submersible Objects). Additionally, his experience could position him to discuss how UAPs might interact with naval operations and defence readiness, emphasising the importance of preparedness in the face of unknown aerial technologies.
3. Michael Gold – Space Law and Policy Expert
Michael Gold’s extensive career in space law, policy, and aerospace innovation is well-documented. His roles at NASA, Radiance Technologies, and Bigelow Aerospace underscore an understanding of space exploration and the legal frameworks governing it. His social media profile illustrates his involvement in pioneering policy initiatives, which have often bridged the gap between government and private-sector space operations. There isn’t much about the UAP/UFO topic form him publicly, so he’s likely to be a dark horse in this one.
Gold has contributed to conversations on advanced aerospace initiatives, both in the context of technological progress and policy implications. He may offer testimony that explores how UAPs challenge current space law and defense regulations, as well as what potential legislative adjustments could be necessary to address the reality of advanced aerial phenomena. His insights could illuminate how UAPs fit into a broader discussion about space exploration, commercial interests, and national security.
4. Michael Shellenberger – Investigative Journalist
Michael Shellenberger is known for his fearless investigative journalism that cuts through complex issues with clarity and depth. His work has spanned topics like energy policy, government accountability, and public interest advocacy. Shellenberger’s overt commitment to uncovering stories that challenge conventional narratives and provoke thoughtful discourse.
While not primarily focused on UAPs in his past work, Shellenberger’s approach to documenting suppressed or misunderstood topics makes him a compelling witness. His testimony could provide an outsider’s perspective that questions how UAP information is managed by government agencies and the media. Given his recent coverage of Immaculate Constellation, the alleged reverse-engineering program, he may have more to provide contextually, or perhaps other information he withheld from the story he initially wrote, awaiting the congressional hearing to open up about.
What Might We Expect From This Hearing?
While it is impossible to predict exactly what each witness will reveal, their combined expertise and unique positions of authority and credibility (and credentials) offer a promising start. Let’s not forget a witness in Congress is afforded more opportunity and immunity than DOPSR (Defense Office of Prepublication and Security Review) would afford them. So maybe we will get a bit more from them. Elizondo’s testimony could focus on what the government has documented but kept under wraps, Gallaudet might touch on national security and environmental contexts with an emphasis on USOs, Gold could explore legislative gaps, NASA secrets, and perhaps AAWSAP (Advanced Aerospace Weapon System Applications Program) secrets, too- let’s not forget it was rumoured that Bigelow Aerospace (through AAWSAP, were attempting to obtain an actual recovered UAP). Shellenberger may challenge the narrative around disclosure and accountability and provide more details on Immaculate Constellation, backed by his source, who provided a written report to Congress to go along with Shellenberger’s upcoming testimony. This hearing could mark a significant moment in the journey toward transparency, getting this evidence on the Congressional report and provide us deeper understanding of UAPs. Here’s hoping!
I recently put together a video diving-in to the four men and their backgrounds, which you can watch here:
*Luis not Louis!
Good spot!