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Spurious correlation #3,941 · View random

A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is The distance between Uranus and Saturn and the second variable is UFO sightings in Illinois.  The chart goes from 1975 to 2021, and the two variables track closely in value over that time. Small Image
Download png
, svg

AI explanation

The gravitational tug-of-war between the two gas giants created cosmic traffic jams, forcing UFOs to detour through Illinois for a smoother ride. This led to an uptick in confused farmers and perplexed city folk reporting strange lights in the sky. Or maybe, just maybe, it's because Uranus and Saturn were just trying to planet a little closer to home.

Model: dalle-3
Prompt: Generate an image that captures the eerie beauty of a rural Illinois field at night, with the planets Uranus and Saturn dominating the landscape. A faint shimmering in the air highlights their distance from each other. In the distance, UFOs slip through a temporary wormhole, swirling around startled cows before disappearing into the depths of the universe. The overall scene should evoke a sense of wonder and mystery, fitting for a sci-fi fantasy setting. The depiction should include only scenes, people, and objects, it should not include text or speech bubbles.
This image generation prompt was also generated by AI, using the following sequence:

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You select one of a few potential scene descriptors that seems to go along with the variables described. You respond only with the scene descriptions provided and say nothing else.
User prompt: Here are two variables: The distance between Uranus and Saturn and UFO sightings in Illinois. Given these, which of the following image style descriptions seems most appropriate? Pick the one that seems to be related to one of the variables at hand. Please respond with only one of the following potential descriptions: Sci-fi fantacy a meme Symbolism A photo-realistic image Cyber folk
ChatGPT: Sci-fi fantasy

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You describe simple visual scenes that depict the two variables stated. You combine both variables into one scene.
User prompt: Please describe a visual scene that prominently depicts both The distance between Uranus and Saturn and UFO sightings in Illinois, in the following situation: Because the gravitational pull between Uranus and Saturn caused a temporary wormhole to open over Illinois, allowing UFOs to slip through and mess with some cows before heading back home for dinner.. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: In a rural Illinois field, the planets Uranus and Saturn hang prominently in the night sky, their distance from each other causing a faint shimmering in the air. Suddenly, a mysterious light appears, as UFOs slip through the temporary wormhole, swirling around the startled cows before disappearing back into the depths of the universe.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You write and improve image generation prompts for DALLE-3. You maintain the same subjects, but enhance the visuals.
User prompt: Please respond with an image generation prompt that would be likely to create an interesting visual using DALLE-3, using the following style: [ Sci-fi fantasy ] and depicting this scene: In a rural Illinois field, the planets Uranus and Saturn hang prominently in the night sky, their distance from each other causing a faint shimmering in the air. Suddenly, a mysterious light appears, as UFOs slip through the temporary wormhole, swirling around the startled cows before disappearing back into the depths of the universe. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: Generate an image that captures the eerie beauty of a rural Illinois field at night, with the planets Uranus and Saturn dominating the landscape. A faint shimmering in the air highlights their distance from each other. In the distance, UFOs slip through a temporary wormhole, swirling around startled cows before disappearing into the depths of the universe. The overall scene should evoke a sense of wonder and mystery, fitting for a sci-fi fantasy setting.

*Variations in the User Prompts from chart to chart are just the result of random number generation in Python. I wrote a few arrays of various styles and methods to ask questions to change up the results. Every time this site writes an explanation or generates an image, the script picks from each at random.

I sequence the requests into multiple prompts because I find GPT 3.5 to perform much better with short, well-managed contexts. Thus, I track the context directly in Python and only ask ChatGPT targeted questions.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106 (fine-tuned)
System prompt: You provide humorous responses in the form of plausible sounding explanations for correlations. You assume the correlation is causative for the purpose of the explanation even if it is ridiculous. You do not chat with the user, you only reply with the causal connection explanation and nothing else.
User prompt: Please make up a funny explanation for how increases in The distance between Uranus and Saturn positively influenced UFO sightings in Illinois.\Make it sound serious until the end.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)
Uranus and Saturn in Alignment: A Distant Connection to UFO Sightings in Illinois

The Journal of Planetary Paradoxes

Jan 2024

Reminder: This paper is AI-generated. Not real!
Quick note: This sequence is long and repetitive. That's how the prompt engineering works for this one. I manage the output in Python to format it into this PDF.




Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics journal.You write titles and abstracts of goofy academic research papers.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, and add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please draft the title and abstract of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between The distance between Uranus and Saturn and UFO sightings in Illinois. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences.

Rhyme words in the title.

Your research team used data from Caclculated using Astropy and National UFO Reporting Center to assess this nagging question. You found a correlation coefficient of 0.8767215 and p < 0.01 for 1975 to 2021.

Please respond in this format (replace "Lorem ipsum dolor sit" with your title and abstract)

[[TITLE]]
Lorem ipsum dolor sit

[[ABSTRACT]]
Lorem ipsum dolor sit



ChatGPT:
[[TITLE]]
Uranus and Saturn in Alignment: A Distant Connection to UFO Sightings in Illinois

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study boldly goes where no research has gone before, delving deep into the celestial connection between the distance of Uranus and Saturn and UFO sightings in the heart of Illinois. Our research team employed a galactic yardstick, using data from Astropy and the National UFO Reporting Center, to investigate this cosmic conundrum. The correlation coefficient of 0.8767215 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning 1975 to 2021 left us stargazing at the intriguing association. It seems that when Uranus and Saturn align, UFO sightings in Illinois are on the incline, prompting the question: Are we being watched from a distance, or is it just a case of celestial misidentification?

As we analyzed the data, a light-hearted dad joke seemed apropos: Why don't astronomers tell secrets? Because they just planet! Our findings unveil an unexpected twist in the celestial interplay, raising eyebrows and telescopes alike. While our study does not offer a definitive explanation, it provides stellar evidence to support the link between celestial events and terrestrial encounters of the unidentified kind. So, the next time you look up at Uranus and Saturn in the night sky, remember, you may not be the only one looking back!


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics journal.You draft the introduction section of an academic research paper.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up the introduction section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between The distance between Uranus and Saturn and UFO sightings in Illinois. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Uranus and Saturn in Alignment: A Distant Connection to UFO Sightings in Illinois

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study boldly goes where no research has gone before, delving deep into the celestial connection between the distance of Uranus and Saturn and UFO sightings in the heart of Illinois. Our research team employed a galactic yardstick, using data from Astropy and the National UFO Reporting Center, to investigate this cosmic conundrum. The correlation coefficient of 0.8767215 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning 1975 to 2021 left us stargazing at the intriguing association. It seems that when Uranus and Saturn align, UFO sightings in Illinois are on the incline, prompting the question: Are we being watched from a distance, or is it just a case of celestial misidentification?

As we analyzed the data, a light-hearted dad joke seemed apropos: Why don't astronomers tell secrets? Because they just planet! Our findings unveil an unexpected twist in the celestial interplay, raising eyebrows and telescopes alike. While our study does not offer a definitive explanation, it provides stellar evidence to support the link between celestial events and terrestrial encounters of the unidentified kind. So, the next time you look up at Uranus and Saturn in the night sky, remember, you may not be the only one looking back!

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[INTRODUCTION]]



ChatGPT:
[[INTRODUCTION]]

The pursuit of extraterrestrial life has long captivated human imagination, inspiring countless science fiction tales, speculative hypotheses, and the occasional tin-foil hat. Yet, amidst the cosmic cacophony of planetary alignments and celestial symphonies, a peculiar pattern emerged in the heart of the United States. Our study explores the enigmatic link between the distance of Uranus and Saturn and the reported sightings of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) in the vast expanse of Illinois.

As we embark on this astronomical adventure, let's pause for a celestial-themed dad joke: Why did the astronaut break up with his girlfriend? Because he needed space! Now, onto the astronomical anomalies and earthly encounters that have left us starry-eyed and questioning the cosmos.

The gravitational forces exerted by Uranus and Saturn are well-documented in the annals of astrophysics, but their influence on earthly UFO sightings remains largely uncharted territory. Our research capitalizes on a celestial stroke of luck, as the periodic alignments of Uranus and Saturn offer a rare opportunity to probe the cosmic underpinnings of UFO activity in Illinois. We ascertain the galactic yardstick, using data from the National UFO Reporting Center and celestial ephemeris calculations from Astropy, to chart the course of this cosmic correlation.

In the spirit of intergalactic jest, here's another dad joke: How do aliens keep their pants up? With an asteroid belt! Now, back to the serious scholarly pursuit of unraveling the mysteries that transcend our earthly bounds and evoke the allure of the great unknown.

Our findings not only yield statistical significance—hint: correlation coefficient of 0.8767215 and p < 0.01—but also invite a speculative dialogue on the nature of these sightings. Is it a cosmic coincidence or a cosmic conspiracy? Our analysis is poised to ignite a supernova of discussions in the spheres of astronomy, ufology, and statistical cosmography.

In closing, let's leave you with one more pun: What do you call an extraterrestrial with a spicy attitude? An inter-paprika! With a cosmic wink and a scholarly nod, we invite you to embark on this illuminating journey through the cosmic coordinates of Uranus, Saturn, and the curious occurrences in the skies above Illinois. As we peer through the lens of statistical analysis, may we find not just answers, but a newfound appreciation for the whimsy of our celestial dance with the unknown.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics journal.You draft a literature review section of an academic research paper, that starts out dry for the first few sentences but then becomes hilarious and goofy.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up a literature review section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between The distance between Uranus and Saturn and UFO sightings in Illinois. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences.

Speak in the present tense for this section (the authors find...), as is common in academic research paper literature reviews. Name the sources in a format similar to this: In "Book," the authors find lorem and ipsum.

Make up the lorem and ipsum part, but make it sound related to the topic at hand.

Start by naming serious-sounding studies by authors like Smith, Doe, and Jones - but then quickly devolve. Name some real non-fiction books that would be related to the topic. Then name some real fiction books that sound like they could be related. Perhaps you also got inspiration from some board games that are vaugely related.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Uranus and Saturn in Alignment: A Distant Connection to UFO Sightings in Illinois

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study boldly goes where no research has gone before, delving deep into the celestial connection between the distance of Uranus and Saturn and UFO sightings in the heart of Illinois. Our research team employed a galactic yardstick, using data from Astropy and the National UFO Reporting Center, to investigate this cosmic conundrum. The correlation coefficient of 0.8767215 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning 1975 to 2021 left us stargazing at the intriguing association. It seems that when Uranus and Saturn align, UFO sightings in Illinois are on the incline, prompting the question: Are we being watched from a distance, or is it just a case of celestial misidentification?

As we analyzed the data, a light-hearted dad joke seemed apropos: Why don't astronomers tell secrets? Because they just planet! Our findings unveil an unexpected twist in the celestial interplay, raising eyebrows and telescopes alike. While our study does not offer a definitive explanation, it provides stellar evidence to support the link between celestial events and terrestrial encounters of the unidentified kind. So, the next time you look up at Uranus and Saturn in the night sky, remember, you may not be the only one looking back!

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
The pursuit of extraterrestrial life has long captivated human imagination, inspiring countless science fiction tales, speculative hypotheses, and the occasional tin-foil hat. Yet, amidst the cosmic cacophony of planetary alignments and celestial symphonies, a peculiar pattern emerged in the heart of the United States. Our study explores the enigmatic link between the distance of Uranus and Saturn and the reported sightings of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) in the vast expanse of Illinois.
As we embark on this astronomical adventure, let's pause for a celestial-themed dad joke: Why did the astronaut break up with his girlfriend? Because he needed space! Now, onto the astronomical anomalies and earthly encounters that have left us starry-eyed and questioning the cosmos.
The gravitational forces exerted by Uranus and Saturn are well-documented in the annals of astrophysics, but their influence on earthly UFO sightings remains largely uncharted territory. Our research capitalizes on a celestial stroke of luck, as the periodic alignments of Uranus and Saturn offer a rare opportunity to probe the cosmic underpinnings of UFO activity in Illinois. We ascertain the galactic yardstick, using data from the National UFO Reporting Center and celestial ephemeris calculations from Astropy, to chart the course of this cosmic correlation.
In the spirit of intergalactic jest, here's another dad joke: How do aliens keep their pants up? With an asteroid belt! Now, back to the serious scholarly pursuit of unraveling the mysteries that transcend our earthly bounds and evoke the allure of the great unknown.
Our findings not only yield statistical significance—hint: correlation coefficient of 0.8767215 and p < 0.01—but also invite a speculative dialogue on the nature of these sightings. Is it a cosmic coincidence or a cosmic conspiracy? Our analysis is poised to ignite a supernova of discussions in the spheres of astronomy, ufology, and statistical cosmography.
In closing, let's leave you with one more pun: What do you call an extraterrestrial with a spicy attitude? An inter-paprika! With a cosmic wink and a scholarly nod, we invite you to embark on this illuminating journey through the cosmic coordinates of Uranus, Saturn, and the curious occurrences in the skies above Illinois. As we peer through the lens of statistical analysis, may we find not just answers, but a newfound appreciation for the whimsy of our celestial dance with the unknown.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]



ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

In "Planetary Alignments and Paranormal Activity," Smith and Doe explore the potential connection between the position of Uranus and Saturn and reported UFO sightings in various regions of the world. The authors note a recurring trend of increased UFO sightings coinciding with specific celestial events, igniting discussions within the ufology community.

Adding to this corpus of research, Jones et al. examine the astrological implications of Uranus and Saturn alignments in "Celestial Convergence: A Cosmic Glimpse into UFO Phenomena." Their findings suggest a potential correlation between the relative distance of these celestial bodies and anomalous aerial sightings reported by civilians and pilots alike.

In "The Enigmatic Influence of Planetary Configurations," Thompson delves into the historical context of celestial phenomena and its purported influence on earthly occurrences. Drawing from ancient myths and modern-day accounts, the author presents a compelling argument for the subtle yet profound impact of planetary alignments on human experiences.

Shifting our focus to a more whimsical yet thought-provoking realm, the fictional works of "The X-Files: Goblins and Ghouls in the Galactic Matrix" by Mulder and Scully captivate readers with thrilling tales of extraterrestrial encounters. While not grounded in empirical evidence, these narratives reflect the enduring fascination with the unknown and the cosmic possibilities that lurk beyond our terrestrial boundaries.

In a similar vein, "Contact" by Carl Sagan offers a speculative glimpse into the potential ramifications of interstellar communication, inviting readers to ponder the complexities of encountering intelligent life beyond our solar system. Through a blend of scientific reverence and imaginative storytelling, Sagan's work stirs the imagination while grounding it in the realms of theoretical astrophysics.

Furthermore, the board game "Space Alert" presents a simulated scenario of galactic exploration and encounter with alien entities, offering players a chance to navigate the perils and wonders of interstellar travel. While purely recreational in nature, this game reflects the enduring allure of cosmic exploration and the possibility of unexpected cosmic encounters.

In a lighthearted interstellar twist, let's pause for a celestial-themed dad joke: How do aliens report their sightings? They make an "astro"-nomical observation! As we navigate the cosmic labyrinth of literature and contemplate the enigmatic link between Uranus, Saturn, and UFO sightings in Illinois, we find ourselves not only probing the limits of statistical association but also reveling in the expansive whimsy of the great cosmic unknown.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics journal.You draft the methodology section of an academic research paper.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up the methodology section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between The distance between Uranus and Saturn and UFO sightings in Illinois. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from Caclculated using Astropy and National UFO Reporting Center . You used data from 1975 to 2021

Make up the research methods you don't know. Make them a bit goofy and convoluted.

Here is the title, abstract, and introduction of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Uranus and Saturn in Alignment: A Distant Connection to UFO Sightings in Illinois

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study boldly goes where no research has gone before, delving deep into the celestial connection between the distance of Uranus and Saturn and UFO sightings in the heart of Illinois. Our research team employed a galactic yardstick, using data from Astropy and the National UFO Reporting Center, to investigate this cosmic conundrum. The correlation coefficient of 0.8767215 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning 1975 to 2021 left us stargazing at the intriguing association. It seems that when Uranus and Saturn align, UFO sightings in Illinois are on the incline, prompting the question: Are we being watched from a distance, or is it just a case of celestial misidentification?

As we analyzed the data, a light-hearted dad joke seemed apropos: Why don't astronomers tell secrets? Because they just planet! Our findings unveil an unexpected twist in the celestial interplay, raising eyebrows and telescopes alike. While our study does not offer a definitive explanation, it provides stellar evidence to support the link between celestial events and terrestrial encounters of the unidentified kind. So, the next time you look up at Uranus and Saturn in the night sky, remember, you may not be the only one looking back!

[[INTRODUCTION]]
The pursuit of extraterrestrial life has long captivated human imagination, inspiring countless science fiction tales, speculative hypotheses, and the occasional tin-foil hat. Yet, amidst the cosmic cacophony of planetary alignments and celestial symphonies, a peculiar pattern emerged in the heart of the United States. Our study explores the enigmatic link between the distance of Uranus and Saturn and the reported sightings of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) in the vast expanse of Illinois.
As we embark on this astronomical adventure, let's pause for a celestial-themed dad joke: Why did the astronaut break up with his girlfriend? Because he needed space! Now, onto the astronomical anomalies and earthly encounters that have left us starry-eyed and questioning the cosmos.
The gravitational forces exerted by Uranus and Saturn are well-documented in the annals of astrophysics, but their influence on earthly UFO sightings remains largely uncharted territory. Our research capitalizes on a celestial stroke of luck, as the periodic alignments of Uranus and Saturn offer a rare opportunity to probe the cosmic underpinnings of UFO activity in Illinois. We ascertain the galactic yardstick, using data from the National UFO Reporting Center and celestial ephemeris calculations from Astropy, to chart the course of this cosmic correlation.
In the spirit of intergalactic jest, here's another dad joke: How do aliens keep their pants up? With an asteroid belt! Now, back to the serious scholarly pursuit of unraveling the mysteries that transcend our earthly bounds and evoke the allure of the great unknown.
Our findings not only yield statistical significance—hint: correlation coefficient of 0.8767215 and p < 0.01—but also invite a speculative dialogue on the nature of these sightings. Is it a cosmic coincidence or a cosmic conspiracy? Our analysis is poised to ignite a supernova of discussions in the spheres of astronomy, ufology, and statistical cosmography.
In closing, let's leave you with one more pun: What do you call an extraterrestrial with a spicy attitude? An inter-paprika! With a cosmic wink and a scholarly nod, we invite you to embark on this illuminating journey through the cosmic coordinates of Uranus, Saturn, and the curious occurrences in the skies above Illinois. As we peer through the lens of statistical analysis, may we find not just answers, but a newfound appreciation for the whimsy of our celestial dance with the unknown.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]



ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

Our research methodology embarked on a celestial scavenger hunt, collecting data from the depths of the internet and utilizing the trusted resources of Astropy and the National UFO Reporting Center. To uncover the cosmic clues linking the distances between Uranus and Saturn and the reported UFO sightings in Illinois, we engaged in a series of unconventional procedures that were astronomically enlightening—though not without a dash of space-themed humor.

First, we meticulously gathered historical data on the spatial coordinates of Uranus and Saturn, taking into account their cosmic tango over the years 1975 to 2021. This involved long nights of celestial observation and detailed ephemeris calculations, leaving us stargazing in true astrophile fashion. As we delved deeper into our data collection, a stellar-themed dad joke couldn't be resisted: What do planets like to read? Comet books!

Simultaneously, we combed through the reports of UFO sightings in Illinois, meticulously cataloging each encounter that piqued our extraterrestrial curiosity. We exercised utmost diligence in cross-referencing these sightings with the astronomical positions of Uranus and Saturn, aiming to unveil any discernible patterns or celestial synchronicities.

Our statistical approach was no mere moonwalk, as we employed a rigorous analysis to quantify the potential correlation between the distances of Uranus and Saturn and the frequency of UFO sightings in Illinois. Utilizing advanced statistical software and modeling techniques, we calculated a correlation coefficient of 0.8767215 with p < 0.01. This left us wide-eyed at the magnitude of the connection and instigated an astronomical bout of contemplation.

In the midst of our cosmic quest, an interstellar joke demanded entrance: Why don't aliens eat clowns? Because they taste funny! Despite the levity, our dedication to precision and scientific integrity remained steadfast as we scrutinized the findings and navigated the celestial landscapes of significance testing.

Moreover, we conducted spatial autocorrelation analyses to assess the potential influence of neighboring celestial bodies on the observed association between Uranus-Saturn distances and UFO sightings in Illinois. This dimension of our analysis provided a panoramic view of the cosmic interplay, offering insights into the broader cosmic neighborhood that may influence the terrestrial manifestations of space-related encounters.

As we conclude this section, a parting astronomical jest feels fitting: What's an astronaut's favorite part of a computer? The space bar! With our methodology charted and our findings poised for galactic discourse, we invite fellow scholars to enter the cosmic dance and join us in pondering the celestial mechanics that may underpin the enigmatic connection between the outer reaches of our solar system and the unidentified visitors in the Illinois skies.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics journal.You draft the results section of an academic research paper. You speak in the past tense (you found...).
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up the results section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between The distance between Uranus and Saturn and UFO sightings in Illinois. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from Caclculated using Astropy and National UFO Reporting Center .

For the time period 1975 to 2021, you found a correlation 0.8767215, r-squared of 0.7686406, and p < 0.01.

One figure will be included. The figure (Fig. 1) is a scatterplot showing the strong correlation between the two variables. You don't need to specify where; I will add the figure.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Uranus and Saturn in Alignment: A Distant Connection to UFO Sightings in Illinois

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study boldly goes where no research has gone before, delving deep into the celestial connection between the distance of Uranus and Saturn and UFO sightings in the heart of Illinois. Our research team employed a galactic yardstick, using data from Astropy and the National UFO Reporting Center, to investigate this cosmic conundrum. The correlation coefficient of 0.8767215 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning 1975 to 2021 left us stargazing at the intriguing association. It seems that when Uranus and Saturn align, UFO sightings in Illinois are on the incline, prompting the question: Are we being watched from a distance, or is it just a case of celestial misidentification?

As we analyzed the data, a light-hearted dad joke seemed apropos: Why don't astronomers tell secrets? Because they just planet! Our findings unveil an unexpected twist in the celestial interplay, raising eyebrows and telescopes alike. While our study does not offer a definitive explanation, it provides stellar evidence to support the link between celestial events and terrestrial encounters of the unidentified kind. So, the next time you look up at Uranus and Saturn in the night sky, remember, you may not be the only one looking back!

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
The pursuit of extraterrestrial life has long captivated human imagination, inspiring countless science fiction tales, speculative hypotheses, and the occasional tin-foil hat. Yet, amidst the cosmic cacophony of planetary alignments and celestial symphonies, a peculiar pattern emerged in the heart of the United States. Our study explores the enigmatic link between the distance of Uranus and Saturn and the reported sightings of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) in the vast expanse of Illinois.
As we embark on this astronomical adventure, let's pause for a celestial-themed dad joke: Why did the astronaut break up with his girlfriend? Because he needed space! Now, onto the astronomical anomalies and earthly encounters that have left us starry-eyed and questioning the cosmos.
The gravitational forces exerted by Uranus and Saturn are well-documented in the annals of astrophysics, but their influence on earthly UFO sightings remains largely uncharted territory. Our research capitalizes on a celestial stroke of luck, as the periodic alignments of Uranus and Saturn offer a rare opportunity to probe the cosmic underpinnings of UFO activity in Illinois. We ascertain the galactic yardstick, using data from the National UFO Reporting Center and celestial ephemeris calculations from Astropy, to chart the course of this cosmic correlation.
In the spirit of intergalactic jest, here's another dad joke: How do aliens keep their pants up? With an asteroid belt! Now, back to the serious scholarly pursuit of unraveling the mysteries that transcend our earthly bounds and evoke the allure of the great unknown.
Our findings not only yield statistical significance—hint: correlation coefficient of 0.8767215 and p < 0.01—but also invite a speculative dialogue on the nature of these sightings. Is it a cosmic coincidence or a cosmic conspiracy? Our analysis is poised to ignite a supernova of discussions in the spheres of astronomy, ufology, and statistical cosmography.
In closing, let's leave you with one more pun: What do you call an extraterrestrial with a spicy attitude? An inter-paprika! With a cosmic wink and a scholarly nod, we invite you to embark on this illuminating journey through the cosmic coordinates of Uranus, Saturn, and the curious occurrences in the skies above Illinois. As we peer through the lens of statistical analysis, may we find not just answers, but a newfound appreciation for the whimsy of our celestial dance with the unknown.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]



ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

The statistical analysis of the data revealed a strong correlation between the distance separating Uranus and Saturn and the frequency of UFO sightings in Illinois. The correlation coefficient of 0.8767215 indicated a robust positive relationship between these celestial parameters. To put this finding in simpler terms: the closer Uranus and Saturn are in the sky, the more likely it is for UFO sightings to occur in the Land of Lincoln.

In keeping with the cosmic theme, here's a dad joke to lighten the statistical atmosphere: What did the UFO say to the alien? Take me to your reader! Puns aside, the strength of this correlation, with an r-squared of 0.7686406 and p-value less than 0.01, leaves little room for celestial coincidence and calls for further investigation into this intriguing phenomenon.

Fig. 1 provides a visual representation of the strong correlation, depicting a scatterplot that vividly illustrates the relationship between the distance of Uranus and Saturn and the reported UFO sightings in Illinois. The figure offers a compelling snapshot of the celestial dance that seems to coincide with the earthly encounters of the unidentified kind.

As we gaze into the heavens and ponder the cosmic mysteries that intertwine with our daily existence, it becomes evident that the celestial dynamics of our solar system may indeed have an unexpected influence on our earthly experiences. This study sheds light on a fascinating correlation, prompting us to consider the possibility of celestial phenomena impacting our terrestrial perceptions.

In closing, let's wrap up with one final dad joke to keep the cosmic conversation light: What do you get when you cross a UFO and a snowman? Frostbite! With that, we invite fellow researchers and enthusiasts to engage in a lively exploration of the celestial puzzles that continue to captivate our imaginations and ignite our curiosity.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics journal.You draft the discussion section of an academic research paper.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up the discussion section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between The distance between Uranus and Saturn and UFO sightings in Illinois. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences.

Limit your response to 500 tokens.

Here are the title, abstract, literature review, and results sections. Please harken back to 1-2 of the goofy items in the literature review, but pretend to take them completely seriously. Discuss how your results supported the prior research.

Do not write a conclusion. I will add a conclusion after this.

[[TITLE]]
Uranus and Saturn in Alignment: A Distant Connection to UFO Sightings in Illinois

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study boldly goes where no research has gone before, delving deep into the celestial connection between the distance of Uranus and Saturn and UFO sightings in the heart of Illinois. Our research team employed a galactic yardstick, using data from Astropy and the National UFO Reporting Center, to investigate this cosmic conundrum. The correlation coefficient of 0.8767215 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning 1975 to 2021 left us stargazing at the intriguing association. It seems that when Uranus and Saturn align, UFO sightings in Illinois are on the incline, prompting the question: Are we being watched from a distance, or is it just a case of celestial misidentification?

As we analyzed the data, a light-hearted dad joke seemed apropos: Why don't astronomers tell secrets? Because they just planet! Our findings unveil an unexpected twist in the celestial interplay, raising eyebrows and telescopes alike. While our study does not offer a definitive explanation, it provides stellar evidence to support the link between celestial events and terrestrial encounters of the unidentified kind. So, the next time you look up at Uranus and Saturn in the night sky, remember, you may not be the only one looking back!

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
In "Planetary Alignments and Paranormal Activity," Smith and Doe explore the potential connection between the position of Uranus and Saturn and reported UFO sightings in various regions of the world. The authors note a recurring trend of increased UFO sightings coinciding with specific celestial events, igniting discussions within the ufology community.
Adding to this corpus of research, Jones et al. examine the astrological implications of Uranus and Saturn alignments in "Celestial Convergence: A Cosmic Glimpse into UFO Phenomena." Their findings suggest a potential correlation between the relative distance of these celestial bodies and anomalous aerial sightings reported by civilians and pilots alike.
In "The Enigmatic Influence of Planetary Configurations," Thompson delves into the historical context of celestial phenomena and its purported influence on earthly occurrences. Drawing from ancient myths and modern-day accounts, the author presents a compelling argument for the subtle yet profound impact of planetary alignments on human experiences.
Shifting our focus to a more whimsical yet thought-provoking realm, the fictional works of "The X-Files: Goblins and Ghouls in the Galactic Matrix" by Mulder and Scully captivate readers with thrilling tales of extraterrestrial encounters. While not grounded in empirical evidence, these narratives reflect the enduring fascination with the unknown and the cosmic possibilities that lurk beyond our terrestrial boundaries.
In a similar vein, "Contact" by Carl Sagan offers a speculative glimpse into the potential ramifications of interstellar communication, inviting readers to ponder the complexities of encountering intelligent life beyond our solar system. Through a blend of scientific reverence and imaginative storytelling, Sagan's work stirs the imagination while grounding it in the realms of theoretical astrophysics.
Furthermore, the board game "Space Alert" presents a simulated scenario of galactic exploration and encounter with alien entities, offering players a chance to navigate the perils and wonders of interstellar travel. While purely recreational in nature, this game reflects the enduring allure of cosmic exploration and the possibility of unexpected cosmic encounters.
In a lighthearted interstellar twist, let's pause for a celestial-themed dad joke: How do aliens report their sightings? They make an "astro"-nomical observation! As we navigate the cosmic labyrinth of literature and contemplate the enigmatic link between Uranus, Saturn, and UFO sightings in Illinois, we find ourselves not only probing the limits of statistical association but also reveling in the expansive whimsy of the great cosmic unknown.

[[RESULTS]]
The statistical analysis of the data revealed a strong correlation between the distance separating Uranus and Saturn and the frequency of UFO sightings in Illinois. The correlation coefficient of 0.8767215 indicated a robust positive relationship between these celestial parameters. To put this finding in simpler terms: the closer Uranus and Saturn are in the sky, the more likely it is for UFO sightings to occur in the Land of Lincoln.
In keeping with the cosmic theme, here's a dad joke to lighten the statistical atmosphere: What did the UFO say to the alien? Take me to your reader! Puns aside, the strength of this correlation, with an r-squared of 0.7686406 and p-value less than 0.01, leaves little room for celestial coincidence and calls for further investigation into this intriguing phenomenon.
Fig. 1 provides a visual representation of the strong correlation, depicting a scatterplot that vividly illustrates the relationship between the distance of Uranus and Saturn and the reported UFO sightings in Illinois. The figure offers a compelling snapshot of the celestial dance that seems to coincide with the earthly encounters of the unidentified kind.
As we gaze into the heavens and ponder the cosmic mysteries that intertwine with our daily existence, it becomes evident that the celestial dynamics of our solar system may indeed have an unexpected influence on our earthly experiences. This study sheds light on a fascinating correlation, prompting us to consider the possibility of celestial phenomena impacting our terrestrial perceptions.
In closing, let's wrap up with one final dad joke to keep the cosmic conversation light: What do you get when you cross a UFO and a snowman? Frostbite! With that, we invite fellow researchers and enthusiasts to engage in a lively exploration of the celestial puzzles that continue to captivate our imaginations and ignite our curiosity.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

The findings of our study lend credence to the intriguing and often-dismissed hypothesis regarding the potential connection between the distance separating Uranus and Saturn and the prevalence of UFO sightings in Illinois. It seems that the celestial dance of these distant planets may have a tangible influence on the frequency of terrestrial encounters with unidentified aerial phenomena.

Harkening back to the literature review, our results align harmoniously with the work of Smith and Doe, who observed a recurring trend of increased UFO sightings coinciding with specific celestial events. Similarly, Jones et al.'s findings regarding the astrological implications of Uranus and Saturn alignments find support in our robust correlation coefficient. It appears that our statistical analysis not only echoes but amplifies the evidence for a substantive relationship between celestial configurations and anomalous aerial sightings.

One might jest that our study serves as a testament to the adage: "When Uranus and Saturn align, UFOs may drop by for a visit!" Cognizant of the playful interplay between celestial whimsy and statistical rigor, our findings present a compelling case for further exploration of this cosmic conundrum.

In line with the unexpected twist within the literature review, our results shine a spotlight on the celestial influences that may manifest in earthly encounters of the unidentified kind. Admittedly, the correlation coefficient of 0.8767215 and p < 0.01 left us starry-eyed, but our statistical analysis provides firm ground for the consideration of what was once deemed extraterrestrial whimsy.

It is worth noting that the strength of our correlation, with an r-squared of 0.7686406, underscores the substantial impact of celestial dynamics on the occurrence of UFO sightings in Illinois. This raises the tantalizing prospect that perhaps "UFO" should stand for "Uranus and Saturn's Formations Observed" instead!

Our study also extends a cosmic invitation for further research and contemplation of the enigmatic link between celestial phenomena and terrestrial experiences. How apt it is to say that in the grand cosmic scheme, "When Uranus and Saturn align, the truth may just be out there!"


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics journal.You draft the discussion section of goofy academic research papers that sounds like it belongs based on the title and abstract provided.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up a short conclusion of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between The distance between Uranus and Saturn and UFO sightings in Illinois. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences.

Limit your response to 300 tokens. At the very end, assert that no more research is needed in this area.

Here are the title, abstract, introduction, and results sections.
[[TITLE]]
Uranus and Saturn in Alignment: A Distant Connection to UFO Sightings in Illinois

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study boldly goes where no research has gone before, delving deep into the celestial connection between the distance of Uranus and Saturn and UFO sightings in the heart of Illinois. Our research team employed a galactic yardstick, using data from Astropy and the National UFO Reporting Center, to investigate this cosmic conundrum. The correlation coefficient of 0.8767215 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning 1975 to 2021 left us stargazing at the intriguing association. It seems that when Uranus and Saturn align, UFO sightings in Illinois are on the incline, prompting the question: Are we being watched from a distance, or is it just a case of celestial misidentification?

As we analyzed the data, a light-hearted dad joke seemed apropos: Why don't astronomers tell secrets? Because they just planet! Our findings unveil an unexpected twist in the celestial interplay, raising eyebrows and telescopes alike. While our study does not offer a definitive explanation, it provides stellar evidence to support the link between celestial events and terrestrial encounters of the unidentified kind. So, the next time you look up at Uranus and Saturn in the night sky, remember, you may not be the only one looking back!

[[INTRDUCTION]]
The pursuit of extraterrestrial life has long captivated human imagination, inspiring countless science fiction tales, speculative hypotheses, and the occasional tin-foil hat. Yet, amidst the cosmic cacophony of planetary alignments and celestial symphonies, a peculiar pattern emerged in the heart of the United States. Our study explores the enigmatic link between the distance of Uranus and Saturn and the reported sightings of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) in the vast expanse of Illinois.
As we embark on this astronomical adventure, let's pause for a celestial-themed dad joke: Why did the astronaut break up with his girlfriend? Because he needed space! Now, onto the astronomical anomalies and earthly encounters that have left us starry-eyed and questioning the cosmos.
The gravitational forces exerted by Uranus and Saturn are well-documented in the annals of astrophysics, but their influence on earthly UFO sightings remains largely uncharted territory. Our research capitalizes on a celestial stroke of luck, as the periodic alignments of Uranus and Saturn offer a rare opportunity to probe the cosmic underpinnings of UFO activity in Illinois. We ascertain the galactic yardstick, using data from the National UFO Reporting Center and celestial ephemeris calculations from Astropy, to chart the course of this cosmic correlation.
In the spirit of intergalactic jest, here's another dad joke: How do aliens keep their pants up? With an asteroid belt! Now, back to the serious scholarly pursuit of unraveling the mysteries that transcend our earthly bounds and evoke the allure of the great unknown.
Our findings not only yield statistical significance—hint: correlation coefficient of 0.8767215 and p < 0.01—but also invite a speculative dialogue on the nature of these sightings. Is it a cosmic coincidence or a cosmic conspiracy? Our analysis is poised to ignite a supernova of discussions in the spheres of astronomy, ufology, and statistical cosmography.
In closing, let's leave you with one more pun: What do you call an extraterrestrial with a spicy attitude? An inter-paprika! With a cosmic wink and a scholarly nod, we invite you to embark on this illuminating journey through the cosmic coordinates of Uranus, Saturn, and the curious occurrences in the skies above Illinois. As we peer through the lens of statistical analysis, may we find not just answers, but a newfound appreciation for the whimsy of our celestial dance with the unknown.

[[RESULTS]]
The statistical analysis of the data revealed a strong correlation between the distance separating Uranus and Saturn and the frequency of UFO sightings in Illinois. The correlation coefficient of 0.8767215 indicated a robust positive relationship between these celestial parameters. To put this finding in simpler terms: the closer Uranus and Saturn are in the sky, the more likely it is for UFO sightings to occur in the Land of Lincoln.
In keeping with the cosmic theme, here's a dad joke to lighten the statistical atmosphere: What did the UFO say to the alien? Take me to your reader! Puns aside, the strength of this correlation, with an r-squared of 0.7686406 and p-value less than 0.01, leaves little room for celestial coincidence and calls for further investigation into this intriguing phenomenon.
Fig. 1 provides a visual representation of the strong correlation, depicting a scatterplot that vividly illustrates the relationship between the distance of Uranus and Saturn and the reported UFO sightings in Illinois. The figure offers a compelling snapshot of the celestial dance that seems to coincide with the earthly encounters of the unidentified kind.
As we gaze into the heavens and ponder the cosmic mysteries that intertwine with our daily existence, it becomes evident that the celestial dynamics of our solar system may indeed have an unexpected influence on our earthly experiences. This study sheds light on a fascinating correlation, prompting us to consider the possibility of celestial phenomena impacting our terrestrial perceptions.
In closing, let's wrap up with one final dad joke to keep the cosmic conversation light: What do you get when you cross a UFO and a snowman? Frostbite! With that, we invite fellow researchers and enthusiasts to engage in a lively exploration of the celestial puzzles that continue to captivate our imaginations and ignite our curiosity.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In light of our findings, it is clear that the distance between Uranus and Saturn holds a significant influence on the frequency of UFO sightings in Illinois. The robust positive correlation coefficient of 0.8767215 and p-value less than 0.01 provides compelling evidence that when these celestial neighbors cozy up in the night sky, Illinois may just become a hotspot for otherworldly visitations.

To keep our conclusion in orbit with the rest of this paper, here's a fitting dad joke: Why did the UFO break up with its spaceship? It needed some space! Our study, while shedding light on this celestial-terrestrial connection, leaves ample room for further inquiry. As much as we'd love to keep probing the cosmos for more cosmic correlations, it seems that Uranus and Saturn have conspired to reveal their secret in this instance.

As a final pun-derful sendoff, here's a dad joke to close the astronomical observations: What did the UFO say to the skeptical earthling? "I'm for real, just beam me up!" With that, we assert that no further research is needed in this area. The stars have aligned, and it's time to let this particular extraterrestrial enigma rest in peace.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide fictional names of academic journals. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide the name of a funny but plausible sounding research, scientific, or academic journal that would publish a paper entited Uranus and Saturn in Alignment: A Distant Connection to UFO Sightings in Illinois. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

The Journal of Planetary Paradoxes


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide fictional names of nonprofit research organizations and associations. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide the name of a funny but plausible sounding nonprofit, academic, or scientific association or organization that would sponsor research that resulted in a paper entited Uranus and Saturn in Alignment: A Distant Connection to UFO Sightings in Illinois. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Institute for Extraterrestrial Studies and Ethnography (IESE)


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide potential search keywords separated by commas. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide potential search keywords for a paper titled Uranus and Saturn in Alignment: A Distant Connection to UFO Sightings in Illinois with an abstract of This study boldly goes where no research has gone before, delving deep into the celestial connection between the distance of Uranus and Saturn and UFO sightings in the heart of Illinois. Our research team employed a galactic yardstick, using data from Astropy and the National UFO Reporting Center, to investigate this cosmic conundrum. The correlation coefficient of 0.8767215 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning 1975 to 2021 left us stargazing at the intriguing association. It seems that when Uranus and Saturn align, UFO sightings in Illinois are on the incline, prompting the question: Are we being watched from a distance, or is it just a case of celestial misidentification?
As we analyzed the data, a light-hearted dad joke seemed apropos: Why don't astronomers tell secrets? Because they just planet! Our findings unveil an unexpected twist in the celestial interplay, raising eyebrows and telescopes alike. While our study does not offer a definitive explanation, it provides stellar evidence to support the link between celestial events and terrestrial encounters of the unidentified kind. So, the next time you look up at Uranus and Saturn in the night sky, remember, you may not be the only one looking back!

ChatGPT:

Uranus, Saturn, alignment, UFO sightings, Illinois, celestial connection, Astropy, National UFO Reporting Center, correlation coefficient, celestial events, terrestrial encounters, celestial misidentification, galactic yardstick, distant connection, celestial interplay

*There is a bunch of Python happening behind the scenes to turn this prompt sequence into a PDF.



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Data details

The distance between Uranus and Saturn
Detailed data title: The average distance between Uranus and Saturn as measured on the first day of each month
Source: Caclculated using Astropy
Additional Info: I wrote a Python script using Astropy to calculate the distance between the named planets on the first day of each month for every year.

See what else correlates with The distance between Uranus and Saturn

UFO sightings in Illinois
Detailed data title: UFO sightings reported in Illinois
Source: National UFO Reporting Center
See what else correlates with UFO sightings in Illinois

Correlation r = 0.8767215 (Pearson correlation coefficient)
Correlation is a measure of how much the variables move together. If it is 0.99, when one goes up the other goes up. If it is 0.02, the connection is very weak or non-existent. If it is -0.99, then when one goes up the other goes down. If it is 1.00, you probably messed up your correlation function.

r2 = 0.7686406 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 76.9% of the change in the one variable (i.e., UFO sightings in Illinois) is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., The distance between Uranus and Saturn) over the 47 years from 1975 through 2021.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 6.7E-16. 0.0000000000000006664680756378
The p-value is a measure of how probable it is that we would randomly find a result this extreme. More specifically the p-value is a measure of how probable it is that we would randomly find a result this extreme if we had only tested one pair of variables one time.

But I am a p-villain. I absolutely did not test only one pair of variables one time. I correlated hundreds of millions of pairs of variables. I threw boatloads of data into an industrial-sized blender to find this correlation.

Who is going to stop me? p-value reporting doesn't require me to report how many calculations I had to go through in order to find a low p-value!
On average, you will find a correaltion as strong as 0.88 in 6.7E-14% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 1,500,446,962,959,201 random variables You don't actually need 1 quadrillion variables to find a correlation like this one. I don't have that many variables in my database. You can also correlate variables that are not independent. I do this a lot.

p-value calculations are useful for understanding the probability of a result happening by chance. They are most useful when used to highlight the risk of a fluke outcome. For example, if you calculate a p-value of 0.30, the risk that the result is a fluke is high. It is good to know that! But there are lots of ways to get a p-value of less than 0.01, as evidenced by this project.

In this particular case, the values are so extreme as to be meaningless. That's why no one reports p-values with specificity after they drop below 0.01.

Just to be clear: I'm being completely transparent about the calculations. There is no math trickery. This is just how statistics shakes out when you calculate hundreds of millions of random correlations.
with the same 46 degrees of freedom, Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 46 because we have two variables measured over a period of 47 years. It's just the number of years minus ( the number of variables minus one ), which in this case simplifies to the number of years minus one.
you would randomly expect to find a correlation as strong as this one.

[ 0.79, 0.93 ] 95% correlation confidence interval (using the Fisher z-transformation)
The confidence interval is an estimate the range of the value of the correlation coefficient, using the correlation itself as an input. The values are meant to be the low and high end of the correlation coefficient with 95% confidence.

This one is a bit more complciated than the other calculations, but I include it because many people have been pushing for confidence intervals instead of p-value calculations (for example: NEJM. However, if you are dredging data, you can reliably find yourself in the 5%. That's my goal!


All values for the years included above: If I were being very sneaky, I could trim years from the beginning or end of the datasets to increase the correlation on some pairs of variables. I don't do that because there are already plenty of correlations in my database without monkeying with the years.

Still, sometimes one of the variables has more years of data available than the other. This page only shows the overlapping years. To see all the years, click on "See what else correlates with..." link above.
19751976197719781979198019811982198319841985198619871988198919901991199219931994199519961997199819992000200120022003200420052006200720082009201020112012201320142015201620172018201920202021
The distance between Uranus and Saturn (Planetary distance (AU))21.899420.748519.542618.298517.034715.768914.528213.33612.220811.216310.36979.728869.343099.251069.467739.9778410.74411.72112.857914.113815.453916.850818.271419.692221.089522.442423.722824.911125.988826.94227.754228.418628.931529.292629.50329.567729.492929.284928.951528.499827.936227.264926.494225.627824.669723.621722.4927
UFO sightings in Illinois (UFO sightings)1181291494754431081285121414115463100881278688196202136171154132195214262167163173147908713513844




Why this works

  1. Data dredging: I have 25,153 variables in my database. I compare all these variables against each other to find ones that randomly match up. That's 632,673,409 correlation calculations! This is called “data dredging.” Instead of starting with a hypothesis and testing it, I instead abused the data to see what correlations shake out. It’s a dangerous way to go about analysis, because any sufficiently large dataset will yield strong correlations completely at random.
  2. Lack of causal connection: There is probably Because these pages are automatically generated, it's possible that the two variables you are viewing are in fact causually related. I take steps to prevent the obvious ones from showing on the site (I don't let data about the weather in one city correlate with the weather in a neighboring city, for example), but sometimes they still pop up. If they are related, cool! You found a loophole.
    no direct connection between these variables, despite what the AI says above. This is exacerbated by the fact that I used "Years" as the base variable. Lots of things happen in a year that are not related to each other! Most studies would use something like "one person" in stead of "one year" to be the "thing" studied.
  3. Observations not independent: For many variables, sequential years are not independent of each other. If a population of people is continuously doing something every day, there is no reason to think they would suddenly change how they are doing that thing on January 1. A simple Personally I don't find any p-value calculation to be 'simple,' but you know what I mean.
    p-value calculation does not take this into account, so mathematically it appears less probable than it really is.
  4. Y-axis doesn't start at zero: I truncated the Y-axes of the graph above. I also used a line graph, which makes the visual connection stand out more than it deserves. Nothing against line graphs. They are great at telling a story when you have linear data! But visually it is deceptive because the only data is at the points on the graph, not the lines on the graph. In between each point, the data could have been doing anything. Like going for a random walk by itself!
    Mathematically what I showed is true, but it is intentionally misleading. Below is the same chart but with both Y-axes starting at zero.




Try it yourself

You can calculate the values on this page on your own! Try running the Python code to see the calculation results. Step 1: Download and install Python on your computer.

Step 2: Open a plaintext editor like Notepad and paste the code below into it.

Step 3: Save the file as "calculate_correlation.py" in a place you will remember, like your desktop. Copy the file location to your clipboard. On Windows, you can right-click the file and click "Properties," and then copy what comes after "Location:" As an example, on my computer the location is "C:\Users\tyler\Desktop"

Step 4: Open a command line window. For example, by pressing start and typing "cmd" and them pressing enter.

Step 5: Install the required modules by typing "pip install numpy", then pressing enter, then typing "pip install scipy", then pressing enter.

Step 6: Navigate to the location where you saved the Python file by using the "cd" command. For example, I would type "cd C:\Users\tyler\Desktop" and push enter.

Step 7: Run the Python script by typing "python calculate_correlation.py"

If you run into any issues, I suggest asking ChatGPT to walk you through installing Python and running the code below on your system. Try this question:

"Walk me through installing Python on my computer to run a script that uses scipy and numpy. Go step-by-step and ask me to confirm before moving on. Start by asking me questions about my operating system so that you know how to proceed. Assume I want the simplest installation with the latest version of Python and that I do not currently have any of the necessary elements installed. Remember to only give me one step per response and confirm I have done it before proceeding."


# These modules make it easier to perform the calculation
import numpy as np
from scipy import stats

# We'll define a function that we can call to return the correlation calculations
def calculate_correlation(array1, array2):

    # Calculate Pearson correlation coefficient and p-value
    correlation, p_value = stats.pearsonr(array1, array2)

    # Calculate R-squared as the square of the correlation coefficient
    r_squared = correlation**2

    return correlation, r_squared, p_value

# These are the arrays for the variables shown on this page, but you can modify them to be any two sets of numbers
array_1 = np.array([21.8994,20.7485,19.5426,18.2985,17.0347,15.7689,14.5282,13.336,12.2208,11.2163,10.3697,9.72886,9.34309,9.25106,9.46773,9.97784,10.744,11.721,12.8579,14.1138,15.4539,16.8508,18.2714,19.6922,21.0895,22.4424,23.7228,24.9111,25.9888,26.942,27.7542,28.4186,28.9315,29.2926,29.503,29.5677,29.4929,29.2849,28.9515,28.4998,27.9362,27.2649,26.4942,25.6278,24.6697,23.6217,22.4927,])
array_2 = np.array([11,8,12,9,14,9,4,7,5,4,4,3,10,8,12,8,5,12,1,4,14,11,54,63,100,88,127,86,88,196,202,136,171,154,132,195,214,262,167,163,173,147,90,87,135,138,44,])
array_1_name = "The distance between Uranus and Saturn"
array_2_name = "UFO sightings in Illinois"

# Perform the calculation
print(f"Calculating the correlation between {array_1_name} and {array_2_name}...")
correlation, r_squared, p_value = calculate_correlation(array_1, array_2)

# Print the results
print("Correlation Coefficient:", correlation)
print("R-squared:", r_squared)
print("P-value:", p_value)



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You do not need to attribute "the spurious correlations website," and you don't even need to link here if you don't want to. I don't gain anything from pageviews. There are no ads on this site, there is nothing for sale, and I am not for hire.

For the record, I am just one person. Tyler Vigen, he/him/his. I do have degrees, but they should not go after my name unless you want to annoy my wife. If that is your goal, then go ahead and cite me as "Tyler Vigen, A.A. A.A.S. B.A. J.D." Otherwise it is just "Tyler Vigen."

When spoken, my last name is pronounced "vegan," like I don't eat meat.

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Correlation ID: 3941 · Black Variable ID: 1966 · Red Variable ID: 1156
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