University of Colorado Condon Committee Announced for Scientific UFO Study
On October 7, 1966, the University of Colorado announced it would oversee a new scientific study of UFO reports, headed by physicist Edward U. Condon. The 15-month, $330,000 contract was funded by the USAF Office of Scientific Research. The National Academy of Sciences agreed to review the final report.
Background
An October 7 article quoted the Denver Post: the University of Colorado would oversee a new scientific study of UFO reports. The announcement followed longstanding criticism by Congress and the public of the government's handling of sighting reports. Theoretical physicist Edward U. Condon would head the effort.
Scope and Budget
Condon and his group would 'analyze all the phenomena associated with UFO sightings and will review the Air Force's methods of receiving, investigating, and evaluating the reports.' It would not have the power of subpoena. The 15-month, $330,000 contract could be extended. The report was to be sent to the USAF Office of Scientific Research. The National Academy of Sciences offered to review Condon's report when finished.
Context
Of 11,000 sighting reports since 1948, the Air Force said it had left only 655 unexplained. Its firm conclusion: no UFO had posed a threat to national security or appeared to be from outer space.
Significance
The Condon Committee became the most significant government-sponsored UFO study since Project Blue Book, though its conclusions were later heavily contested.