"Reported" objects. On a complex radar system which has filters in the process of being re-tuned, because of concern things have been missed but now, there are more false positives: radar is complicated and weather, dust, floating metallised party balloons, insects, migrating birds can generate signals.

The conclusion that this is even worthy of the attention of everyday citizens, and not a routine case of floating trash?

WSJ is reporting the Alaska object was metallic balloon with suspended payload.