NICAP

Background

NICAP was a civilian UFO research organization active in the United States from 1956 to 1980, founded to investigate unidentified flying object reports.

• Compiled significant case files and conducted field investigations

Organization and Membership

NICAP attracted professionals and operated through a worldwide network.

• Attracted professionals including scientists, military personnel, and journalists alongside amateur researchers
• Operated through a worldwide network of investigative subcommittees and scientific advisers
• Membership reached a high of 14,000 in the late 1960s
• Published periodic bulletins including "UFO Investigator" and special reports

Scientific Approach and Advocacy

NICAP advocated for serious scientific study of UFOs and criticized government secrecy.

• Advocated for serious scientific study of UFOs and transparent investigation
• Publicly charged the U.S. Air Force with covering up evidence and practicing excessive secrecy
• Initially cooperated with the Condon Committee (1966-1968) but withdrew when leadership determined the committee was not conducting genuine investigation

Decline and Legacy

NICAP declined after the Condon Committee's report and left a lasting legacy.

• Following the Condon Committee's 1969 conclusion that UFOs lacked scientific significance, public interest declined sharply and NICAP's membership dropped
• The organization disbanded in the early 1980s, with its archives transferred to the J. Allen Hynek Center for UFO Studies
• NICAP's legacy includes establishing the Fund for UFO Research