The truth is out there. And by out there, we mean shimmering over the Pentlands.
In a case that would baffle even Mulder and Scully, residents near the picturesque capital location were so concerned they may be experiencing a close encounter when mysterious orange lights began shining in the sky, police were called out to investigate on Friday evening.
The hills are regularly used by the Ministry of Defence for training exercises at the Dreghorn Barracks.
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But records show no practice was scheduled that day, with firing taking place on Thursday, February 10.
A video shot from a nearby home shows two glowing figures flickering against the obsidian sky before becoming parallel and remaining hanging in the air.
Sharlyn Ferrol, who captured the lights, said it was "not what [she] expected to see on her way home."
Pictures also show the Sauron-esque masses appearing over the horizon to the astonishment of locals.
A Police Scotland spokesperson confirmed officers had attended a report of the unidentified objects, adding “checks” had been carried out.
However, there was no confirmation - or denial - of extraterrestrial life making its presence known, leaving locals mystified as to their origins.
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Walkers are usually warned to steer clear of the area during army drills, with ‘danger to life’ notices placed around the area and red flags hoisted as an indication training is underway.
Firing times posted online showed exercises were held between 9am and 4pm on February 10, but nothing was scheduled for the 11th.
The MOD did not respond to Edinburgh Live’s request for comment.
A police spokesperson added: “We were made aware of the incident and checks were carried out.”
