Can an escape pod land on Earth from orbit and not be immediately detected?

I'm writing a soft scifi novel that has its fair share "fi" but every now and then I feel it important to acknowledge some "sci."

In this scenario, a spaceship is in orbit and about to land on Earth. It's also in communication with Earth, and under observation. But some characters want to "abandon ship" and land on Earth undetected -- or at least have a head start before they're detected.

I'd prefer not to use "cloaking" as an answer (though I'm not above that if it's the only option haha!). I was thinking they could board an escape pod and just "Indiana Jones" their way to Earth. But is this at all plausible in context of existing technology?

Edit: I was unclear about the nature of this spaceship. It's not alien tech; just super cutting edge (a cut above realistic, basically). There's wiggle room in its capabilities, but I'd like to keep it as believable as possible.

Another note: I decided not to choose a winning answer! All of these answers and comments are so helpful, I won't chose any as the best. But thanks to all of you for contributing!

posted almost 5 years ago

cal‭

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