Unexplained drone activity and alarming radiation spikes have left New York and New Jersey residents puzzled. Experts suggest the drones may be searching for hazardous materials, but with readings reaching over 1,000 CPM in some areas, concerns about public safety and military involvement are mounting.
By PC Bureau
Recent drone sightings across the New York and New Jersey metro areas have coincided with significant spikes in radiation levels, sparking public concern and speculation. Over the past week, radiation readings exceeding safety thresholds were detected in two areas—Hamilton Park in Weehawken, New Jersey, and Fort Hamilton near the Verrazano Narrows Bridge. According to the Geiger Counter World Map, counts per minute (CPM) in these locations reached as high as 1,000 CPM, far exceeding the normal background radiation of 30–50 CPM.
Radiation Spikes and Possible Explanations
Radiation spikes of this magnitude are rare and have prompted theories about localized environmental or industrial factors. While medical isotopes or industrial equipment failures are plausible sources, some experts believe the drones themselves might be equipped with advanced sensors to detect gas leaks or radioactive material. John Ferguson, CEO of Saxon Aerospace, posited that the drones may be part of a search effort for hazardous substances, given their capability to operate at night using infrared or thermal imaging technology.
Ferguson explained that unmanned aerial systems rarely fly at night unless tasked with specialized missions. He theorized that the drones might be seeking something “very important” and expressed skepticism about any nefarious intent behind their operations. However, he acknowledged the possibility of experimental drones using radioactive power sources like Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators (RTGs), which could explain the elevated radiation readings if the equipment were compromised.
Military and Counterterrorism Concerns
The mystery deepens with reports of drone activity near sensitive military installations, such as New Jersey’s Picatinny Arsenal and Naval Weapons Station Earle. Military officials have confirmed unauthorized drone breaches, contradicting claims from National Security Council spokesman John Kirby, who dismissed thousands of reports as misidentified helicopters or airplanes.
Advanced detection systems, such as DARPA’s SIGMA program, have been deployed to monitor radiation threats in the region. SIGMA uses a network of stationary and mobile sensors for real-time radiation detection and is integral to counterterrorism efforts in New York and New Jersey. However, federal agencies, including the FBI and DHS, have stated there is “no evidence at this time” linking the drones to foreign adversaries or national security threats.
Please also read: Drone Mystery: Federal Agencies Shoot from the Hips
Public Reaction and Government Response
The unexplained drone activity has raised alarm among residents, especially after an ABC 7 News crew captured footage of a mysterious white orb over Mendham Township. These sightings, coupled with increasing radiation readings, have intensified public demands for transparency. Governor Kathy Hochul announced federal support through a high-tech drone detection system to aid local law enforcement in investigating the incidents. She also urged Congress to allocate more resources to address the issue.
Despite these efforts, questions remain unanswered. Ferguson noted that many of the drones observed appear compliant with federal regulations, further complicating the narrative. In a series of online videos, he reiterated his theory that the drones are likely involved in a search operation rather than malicious activities.
What Lies Ahead?
As the situation unfolds, authorities are under pressure to determine the source of the radiation spikes and the purpose of the drones. Whether these are part of a covert operation, an experimental technology test, or something more routine, the convergence of radiation anomalies and drone sightings has brought an air of mystery to the night skies over New York and New Jersey. For now, residents are left with speculation, awaiting clarity from government agencies.
