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A small, shiny balloon has been spotted soaring over the western U.S. on Friday, sparking curiosity and speculation among the public and the authorities.
43,000 and 45,000 feet
The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), the military agency that monitors the airspace over the U.S. and Canada, said it detected the balloon at an altitude of between 43,000 and 45,000 feet, higher than most commercial planes fly. NORAD sent fighter jets to intercept the balloon over Utah and confirmed that no one controlled it and did not threaten national security.
“The balloon was intercepted by NORAD fighters over Utah, who determined it was not maneuverable and did not present a threat to national security. NORAD will continue to track and monitor the balloon,” NORAD …