The Chinese Spy Balloon meme emerged in early 2023 after a high-altitude surveillance balloon from China crossed North American airspace, sparking international intrigue and widespread social media commentary. Images of the white orb floating over various states became an instant sensation, with internet users joking about what the balloon was actually looking for—ranging from secret government files to mundane everyday activities. The meme reached its peak when the U.S. military eventually shot the balloon down off the coast of South Carolina. Today, the template is used to symbolize unwanted surveillance, awkward hovering, or any situation where something glaringly obvious is being observed from afar.