What is Area 51? What happens in Area 51?

Area 51 is associated with stories of UFOs, government cover-ups, and possible alien technology testing. So what is Area 51? What is going on inside Area 51? Let's find out together!

Area 51 is a top-secret military facility in southern Nevada that has long been the subject of speculation, secrecy, and stories about unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and alien technology.

Located in the remote desert near Groom Lake, Area 51 is infamous for conspiracy theories that it houses alien spacecraft and conducts experiments out of public view. While these theories have captured the public imagination for decades, the true purpose of Area 51 is probably more down-to-earth — though still shrouded in mystery.

What is Area 51?

Area 51 is part of the Nevada Test and Training Range, located approximately 120 miles (200 km) northwest of Las Vegas. The base was established in 1955, initially to support the development of the Lockheed U-2 spy plane, and has since hosted testing of a number of classified aircraft.

The name "Area 51" comes from its designation on an Atomic Energy Commission map. It was also called "Paradise Ranch" to attract personnel to the aerospace company Lockheed (now Lockheed Martin).

Today, the base and the larger Nevada Test and Training Range complex are part of the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS). The CIA calls it Groom Lake and Homey Airport. Satellite imagery of the base, previously restricted, has been available on platforms like Google Maps since 2018.

Despite its frequent mention, 'Area 51' is rarely used in official documents. According to Benjamin Radford, a science writer and UFO skeptic, the term is largely a creation of the media and conspiracy theorists.

' The base itself is quite small, but the restricted area around it is over 90,000 acres [36,000 hectares] — partly to keep out prying eyes and partly because they need to test classified aircraft ,' Radford told Space.com. ' It's mostly known to conspiracy theorists & the media as Area 51. To the US government, it's simply the Nevada Test and Training Range, part of Edwards Air Force Base .'

What's inside Area 51? What is Area 51 used for?

Area 51 has been the site of development and testing of some of the most advanced, secretive aircraft in US history. In addition to the U-2, aircraft such as the SR-71 Blackbird, the A-12 Archangel, and the F-117 Nighthawk stealth fighter have all been tested here.

In 2013, the CIA declassified documents that acknowledged the existence of Area 51, specifically regarding the U-2 program. These files were obtained by the National Security Archive through a Freedom of Information Act request.

While the base's primary mission may be testing classified military technology, its association with UFOs and aliens persists, partly due to the area's mysterious atmosphere and tight security.

Is Area 51 related to UFOs and aliens?

Yes—at least in the public imagination. Testing of new and classified military aircraft may be the main reason Area 51 & UFOs are linked. It's important to note that the term "UFO" refers to any unidentified flying object, not an alien spacecraft.

' It is true that strange lights and aircraft can sometimes be spotted in the area, which can easily lead to UFOs, but of course, new aircraft can look like that too, ' Radford explains. ' The basic, misunderstood premise behind the Area 51 myth can be summed up as follows: The government won't reveal what's going on there, so it must be something extremely secretive .'

What we know as Area 51, he added, is just one of many military bases, national laboratories and government scientific research centers around the country that handle classified — even Top Secret — information and where workers and visitors need security clearance to enter.

Why is Area 51 so mysterious?

Area 51 's secrecy  stems from national security concerns. It remains a military operating area, meaning photography, surveillance, or unauthorized access is strictly prohibited.

The base is equipped with motion sensors, patrols, and underground surveillance cameras, according to Radford. Signs warn that lethal force is permitted if unauthorized entry is detected. The base itself is not fenced, but its boundaries are marked with clear warning signs and orange posts.

Security analysts say the need for secrecy involves protecting advanced aviation projects, drone testing, radar-evading systems and possibly hypersonic flight programs.

How is Area 51 protected?

Area 51 is protected by a strict security infrastructure:

1. No-fly zone: Civilian aircraft are prohibited from flying over the base.
2. Restricted access: Only authorized personnel are allowed in.
3. Surveillance technology: Includes radar, cameras and motion sensors
4. Military presence: Security forces patrol the area and may arrest trespassers.

Violating these boundaries could result in fines, arrest, or worse. The base's security posture is on par with other sensitive defense facilities around the world.

Isabella Humphrey

Update 25 May 2025