How can you trigger the UFO encounter near Hani’s Bethel?

The UFO encounter near Hani’s Bethel in Red Dead Redemption 2 is one of the game’s most intriguing hidden features. To trigger this event, you must first locate Hani’s Bethel, a mysterious cult compound located northeast of Emerald Ranch in the Heartlands region. The encounter is tied to a specific in-game time and requires you to complete a series of steps to unlock it.\n\nFirst, you need to visit Hani’s Bethel during the day to investigate the area. The compound is surrounded by strange symbols and a large stone altar. Inside the main building, you’ll find a note on the table titled ''A Letter to a Friend.'' This note contains cryptic clues about the cult’s beliefs and hints at the UFO encounter. Reading the note is essential to progress, as it sets the stage for the event.\n\nAfter reading the note, you must return to Hani’s Bethel at night, specifically between 2:00 AM and 3:00 AM in-game time. This is the only window when the UFO will appear. To ensure you arrive at the right time, set up camp nearby and sleep until midnight, then ride to the location. Alternatively, you can wait at the compound until the designated time, but be prepared for potential ambushes or wildlife encounters.\n\nOnce you arrive at Hani’s Bethel during the correct time, position yourself near the altar or inside the main building. At exactly 2:00 AM, a bright green light will illuminate the area, and a UFO will appear in the sky. The UFO hovers for a few moments, emitting strange sounds, before disappearing. This event is purely visual and does not involve any combat or interaction, but it’s a fascinating addition to the game’s lore.\n\nOne common challenge players face is missing the time window. If you arrive too early or too late, the UFO will not appear. To avoid this, use the in-game clock to track time accurately. Another issue is encountering hostile NPCs or animals while waiting. To mitigate this, clear the area of threats before settling in for the night. Additionally, save your game before attempting the encounter to avoid losing progress if something goes wrong.\n\nThis UFO encounter ties into the game’s broader themes of mystery and the supernatural. It’s one of several UFO-related events in Red Dead Redemption 2, each requiring specific conditions to trigger. For example, another UFO can be found at Mount Shann, but that event requires a different set of steps. Exploring these hidden features adds depth to the game and rewards players who take the time to investigate its secrets.\n\nFor new players, this encounter is a great way to experience the game’s attention to detail and hidden storytelling. For experienced gamers, it’s a chance to uncover one of the many Easter eggs scattered throughout the world. Regardless of your skill level, the UFO encounter near Hani’s Bethel is a memorable moment that showcases the game’s creativity and immersive world-building.\n\nPractical tips for this encounter include bringing a lantern or using the in-game flashlight to navigate the area at night. Additionally, consider using a horse with high stamina to quickly reach the location if you’re traveling from a distance. Finally, take screenshots or record the event to share with other players, as it’s a rare and visually stunning moment in the game.