The UFO Files : Notes on an Alien Encounter

The UFO Files are the recently de-classified notes on a moment that captivates humanity: the arrival of an alien spacecraft on Planet Earth. The year is 2033. An investigator known only as Polaris has compiled this report into every aspect of the spaceship and the beings that built it.

Piece by piece, uncover a thrilling narrative of courage and curiosity during this closest of encounters, while delving into the cutting-edge science and technology that help Polaris understand—and welcome—these visitors from a distant star system. Read the torn-out headlines announcing an unexplained radio signal from outer space, then learn all about the electromagnetic spectrum and how we use it to communicate.

Come face to face with the flying drones that emerge from the spacecraft, then delve into how dragonflies have mastered the art of flight. And as the mystery of who or what lies within the spaceship unfolds, discover the animals on Earth—including glowing squid and photosynthetic sea slugs—that are so strange as to be almost alien. Every beat of the story is supported by clear, concise explanations of mind-blowing science for 9–12-year-olds, as well as out-of-this-world illustrations by Weston Wei. Other topics include:Nuclear fusion and clean energyUsing AI to decode an unknown languageExoplanets, stars, and astronomyThe Fermi paradox and the likelihood of alien lifeHow rockets flyMany, many moreThe UFO Files is not just a compelling sci-fi story or a primer on core STEM subjects—it's both at once!

Above all, it is a celebration of scientific curiosity, tolerance, and the awe that comes when we open our minds to the stars and wonder whether we are not alone.