A Harvard astronomer known for his unconventional views on extraterrestrial life has been appointed by the Trump administration to lead a scientific advisory panel examining unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP), commonly known as UFOs, and their potential national security implications.

Avi Loeb, a cosmologist who previously chaired Harvard’s astronomy department until 2020, will head the newly formed team of external experts tasked with investigating the origins of unexplained objects reported by military personnel in recent years. The panel, established by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, is part of a broader initiative launched in February 2026 under President Donald Trump aimed at increasing government transparency on UAP-related information.

Describing the work ahead as similar to solving a "detective story," Loeb emphasized a systematic approach focused on human explanations before considering other possibilities. He has long advocated for scientific exploration of potential alien technology, gaining attention since 2017 after proposing that an interstellar object passing near Earth might represent an artificial light sail, rather than a natural comet or asteroid. While Loeb’s ideas have garnered enthusiasm from enthusiasts and some scientists, they have also drawn skepticism and criticism from many in the academic community for lacking robust evidence and bypassing traditional peer review channels.

Steve Desch, an astrophysicist at Arizona State University and vocal critic of Loeb’s hypotheses, expressed concerns that Loeb’s leadership could undermine efforts to rigorously study UAP. Desch views his claims as speculative and warned that the panel’s work may not advance understanding if it embraces unverified conclusions about extraterrestrial origins.

Loeb dismissed such critiques, asserting that the scientific establishment often resists novel concepts. He stressed his intent to ground the panel’s work firmly in data and national security considerations. The team includes more than a dozen scientists and individuals with varying perspectives on UAP, including Timothy Gallaudet, a retired Navy rear admiral who has suggested that some UAP could be controlled by nonhuman intelligence, and Ben Lamm, a tech entrepreneur interested in biotechnology.

Following their inaugural meeting in June, the group requested additional materials from the Department of Defense, seeking more than 50 videos, images, and documents related to documented UAP encounters. Although the advisory council’s deliberations are conducted behind closed doors, Loeb has pledged a commitment to public communication, including outreach via a dedicated website to share findings.

This initiative aligns with earlier efforts by the Pentagon, which released multiple data sets over the past year encompassing both declassified FBI reports and recent military footage showing aerial objects exhibiting unusual flight characteristics.

Loeb characterized the panel’s mission as an opportunity to advance scientific inquiry and national security interests alike at a moment when public trust in science faces challenges. The administration’s move reflects a growing willingness to address the long-standing mystery surrounding UAP with increased openness and multidisciplinary study.