Google Maps has uncovered some of the world’s strangest sights, from enigmatic structures in remote deserts to peculiar formations in icy landscapes. But a recent discovery in the Sahara Desert might just top them all. Internet sleuths have stumbled upon what appears to be a “flying saucer” buried in the sands near the small town of Bordj Omar Driss, Algeria, sparking wild speculation about extraterrestrial visitors.

A UFO Buried for Millennia?

Located at the coordinates 28°8’45.15’N 6°48’20.85’E, the odd, circular structure was first highlighted by UFO enthusiast Scott Waring. Using Google Earth Pro’s elevation tools, Waring claims the object is buried 34.4 feet (10.5 meters) deep. He argues that, given the Sahara’s sediment accumulation rate of 0.5 mm per year, this “UFO” must have crash-landed around 21,000 years ago, long before recorded human history.

Waring shared his findings with MailOnline, stating, “It’s likely the UFO has been there for tens of thousands of years, predating recorded human history.” He also noted that the structure wasn’t visible in earlier satellite images, suggesting it was recently “excavated.”

Adding to the mystery, Waring claims the object appears “torn open” around its lower central dome, possibly indicating looting before authorities could secure it. He even warned that organizations like the CIA might attempt to discredit such discoveries to keep the public in the dark.

The online community has buzzed with excitement over Waring’s claims. One commenter exclaimed, “This definitely looks like a crash site or something, considering it popped up on the map out of nowhere!” Another speculated, “I wonder whether some bodies have been found… This is so weird.” A more cautious user urged others to “take screensH๏τs everyone, cause you know Google is going to make this disappear.”

A Simpler Explanation?

Despite the fervor, experts urge skepticism. Nick Pope, a former UFO investigator for the UK’s Ministry of Defence, told MailOnline that the image alone lacks context. “With recent advances in AI, it’s hard to ensure images haven’t been doctored,” Pope said. “Even if genuine, applying Occam’s Razor—the idea that the simplest explanation is usually correct—this is more likely to be a circular building than a crashed alien spacecraft.”

Online investigators have revealed a more grounded explanation: the structure is likely the foundation for an onshore wind turbine. These mᴀssive concrete bases, dug deep into the ground, often have a “flying saucer”-like appearance with a round body and central dome, especially before the tower is erected. Aerial images of confirmed wind turbine foundations bear a strong resemblance to the Sahara structure. Just southwest of the site, another wind turbine foundation is visible, with part of its tower already under construction, further supporting this theory.

Algeria’s push for renewable energy adds credibility to the wind turbine theory. The country is heavily investing in wind power, aiming for 27% of its electricity to come from renewables by 2035. With consistent wind speeds of up to eight meters per second, the region is ideal for such projects, making a wind turbine foundation far more plausible explanation than an ancient alien crash site.

The Mystery Persists

Still, the “UFO” saucer’s shape and its sudden appearance in recent satellite images keep some believers hooked. Waring’s claim that the object’s absence in older images suggests recent excavation fuels speculation of a cover-up. Could it be that something extraordinary has been unearthed, only to be mislabeled as a mundane structure?

UFO researcher Philip Mantle, however, warns against such leaps. “The vast majority of UFO sightings have rational explanations,” he told MailOnline. “PH๏τos like this rank alongside stories claiming Elvis is still alive and living with aliens. They’re not to be taken seriously.” Mantle notes that most UFO reports either have clear explanations or lack enough data for analysis, leaving only a tiny fraction worthy of serious study.

What’s Really Out There?

The Sahara’s “flying saucer may not be a spaceship, but its discovery highlights humanity’s enduring fascination with the unknown. Whether it’s a wind turbine foundation or something stranger more mysterious, Google Maps continues to spark debate and wonder, and a touch of conspiracy. For now, the desert keeps its secrets buried—perhaps under a layer of sand, or maybe just concrete.