Search duck duck go: <US uses high altitude balloons, too>. Note this post, among many many others, from NASA:
Scientific Balloons
It’s beginning to appear that Paul Craig Roberts is right.
The Chinese Spy Balloon Hoax
More DS propaganda to drum up fear fear fear and fund the craving for more weapons for more war; plus, and of course, to continue to demonize “the enemy,” — this time, China. Last time, Russia — now exposed, thanks to Sy Hersh latest bombshell.
interestingly Ann, in the wake of the Chinese spy balloon comes is a report of over 913 Chinese spy cameras in Australian government offices. (ASIO has kept this secret for 9 months).
‘At least 913 cameras, intercoms, electronic entry systems and video recorders developed and manufactured by Chinese companies Hikvision and Dahua are in Australian government and agency offices, including the Defense Department and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.’ (can supply link)
That IS interesting. To me, the entire situation feels more and more obscure. I have a feeling there are many conflicting and intersecting scenarios playing out, re: this and so much else!