CUFOS

Background

CUFOS was founded in 1973 by astronomer Dr. J. Allen Hynek, a former scientific consultant to the U.S. Air Force's Project Blue Book (1947–1969). It is a civilian, non-profit organization dedicated to rigorous scientific investigation of UFOs, now termed UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena).

Organization and Structure

CUFOS operates without a formal membership structure as a dedicated scientific think tank for UFO/UAP research.
- Composed of scientists, academics, investigators, and volunteers
- Promotes serious scientific interest and investigation by trained technical experts

Key Activities and Contributions

CUFOS conducts various research and archival activities.
- Conducts original research and independent investigations of UFO/UAP cases
- Maintains UFOCAT, a comprehensive database of UFO reports
- Archives reports, documents, publications, and Hynek's personal collections (correspondence, case notes, witness interviews)
- Publishes the International UFO Reporter (periodical) and Journal of UFO Studies (peer-reviewed scientific journal)
- Operates a nationwide UFO reporting hotline distributed to law-enforcement agencies
- Provides educational resources including a comprehensive UFO timeline linking sightings with intelligence history

Notable Achievements

CUFOS has investigated landmark cases and preserved key materials.
- Investigated landmark cases including the Flatwoods incident (1952) and Tremonton film
- Documented the Coyne event (October 1973), establishing it as a gold standard for UFO cases
- Preserved NICAP materials and extensive Air Force/Blue Book correspondence
- Conducts ongoing analysis of military and nuclear site events
- Chronicles recent UAP developments and maintains active volunteer engagement