The three recent appearances (and two subsequent removals) of “monoliths” in Romania, Utah and California are intriguing examples of what can capture the public’s imagination.
These constructions are metallic-looking structures about three or four metres tall, with a simple geometric design and reflective surface.
They will look familiar to fans of Arthur C Clarke’s Space Odyssey novels, sharing an uncanny resemblance to a monolithic structure pivotal to the story.
Adding to the mystery, the Utah monolith was reportedly in place long before it came to light on November 18. While its location was not announced, members of the public found Google Earth images of the object dating back to 2016.