A strange metallic sphere discovered in the Colombian town of Buga has prompted a wave of speculation, with some suggesting it may be linked to unidentified flying objects (UFOs), while scientists urge restraint and further investigation.

The spherical object, reportedly seen flying over Buga in early March, was later recovered by local researchers. Initial observations indicate the object is made of multiple metal layers and contains a cluster of nine smaller "microspheres" inside. Notably, the sphere has no visible welds or joints — an uncommon trait that has intrigued investigators.

Jose Luis Velazquez, one of the scientists studying the object, said the item bears unusual carvings that have not yet been identified. “It’s a very rare piece,” he said in a video circulated online. “I’ve never seen a piece like this.”

The discovery has stirred considerable interest in UFO circles, with some claiming it as possible evidence of extraterrestrial technology. However, experts from the scientific community have advised a cautious approach.

Dr Julia Mossbridge, a physicist at the University of San Diego and founder of The Institute for Love and Time (TILT), believes the sphere could be part of a conceptual art project rather than an otherworldly artefact.

“Before you decide something’s anomalous or a UFO, bring the object to a group like the Galileo Project,” said Dr Mossbridge, referencing the research initiative led by Harvard astrophysicist Avi Loeb that applies scientific methods to the study of aerial phenomena.

She added that the fascination with such mysterious objects often mirrors broader societal uncertainties. “We’re entering a time when we don’t have the control that we thought we had. If an artist is doing this, why is that? I think it’s because we’re learning we don’t fully understand what’s in our skies or waters.”

Despite her scepticism, Mossbridge did not dismiss all anomalous reports, noting that even government agencies have acknowledged unexplained aerial incidents.

“The federal government has admitted that there are things we don’t understand, but we are investigating them,” she said, emphasising the importance of international, independent research into such phenomena. “The sphere in Colombia is in a different country. So what are the rules about how we deal with something interesting found there?”

In a separate statement, Mossbridge urged the public to approach unknown phenomena with curiosity rather than alarm. “The natural human response to the unknown is fear,” she said. “But we need to recognise that understanding and exploration — not fear — are what keep us safe.”