What should you do if you meet an alien? Neil deGrasse Tyson offers a scientific perspective in 'Take Me To Your Leader' (interview)

Delivering a refreshing fusion of science, pop culture, history, and esoteric humor, renowned astrophysicist, lecturer, and best selling author Neil deGrasse Tyson takes us on a whirlwind tour of UFO culture and speculations on how first contact might actually happen in his latest book, " Take Me To Your Leader: Perspectives on Your First Alien Encounter " (Simon Six, May 12). It's the perfect pocket-sized hardback that offers up Tyson's witty thoughts regarding alien abductions, UAP sightings, and flying saucer lore, as seen through his unique commonsensical delivery, and we’ve got the prologue exclusive to share with both believers and non-believers. Tyson admits in our sneak peek below that "Ever since childhood I've wanted to be abducted by aliens." While as far as we know that's not occurred quite yet, the esteemed host of StarTalk does provide some sound practical advice that just might come in handy when entertaining alien kind. "Take Me To Your Leader" arrives from Simon Six on May 12, 2026 (Image credit: Simon Six) "I saw so much swirling around," Tyson told Space.com. "The level of interest given to UFOs, rebranded as UAPs of course, as it ascended into the halls of Congress, at that point I said to myself as an educator, scientist, and as an alien enthusiast, that I thought I needed to step into the ring. I wanted to go in there and anchor conversations that people were having. …