a brief history of mufon

A Brief History of MUFON

The Mutual UFO Network, commonly known as MUFON, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the scientific study and investigation of UFO sightings and related phenomena. Founded in 1969, MUFON has played a significant role in the field of ufology, providing a platform for researchers, investigators, and witnesses to share information and collaborate on the study of unidentified flying objects.

MUFON’s history can be traced back to the formation of the Midwest UFO Network (MUFON) in Quincy, Illinois, by a group of enthusiasts led by Allen Utke. The organization’s initial focus was primarily on investigating UFO sightings and collecting data. Over time, MUFON expanded its reach and established state chapters across the United States, becoming a national and eventually international organization.

From the MUFON website:

During the 1960s Walt Andrus worked hard as a member of the Aerial Phenomena Research Organization (APRO) to develop a cadre of qualified investigators living in the Midwestern states surrounding his home state of Illinois. In 1967, he organized the Tri-State UFO Study Group operating in the states of Missouri, Iowa and Illinois and he recruited John Schuessler to join him as an investigator and volunteer as a consultant to APRO.

During 1968 and 1969, a number of events took place that had an impact on the UFO field. The University of Colorado completed the government-financed UFO study, with the study head Edward Condon presenting a very negative picture of the worth of further UFO studies. These results enabled the U.S. Air Force to close its administrative UFO office dubbed “Project Blue Book.” The press didn’t bother to look at the details of the University study and reacted only to Condon’s summary of the study by using the media to declare that the UFO mystery was solved. 

At the same time the APRO management reacted to the government’s words by reinforcing their centralized management approach. They wanted to direct the work of each investigator in the field from the office in Tucson, Arizona; thereby eliminating the need for mid-level management in the field. They ignored the fact that industry was turning to the decentralized management style. Walt was still getting a flow of UFO reports from the Midwest in spite of the government’s declarations that nothing was going on. To respond with alacrity, Walt needed the latitude to induct and train field investigators and to make decisions about how investigations were conducted in his own back yard.

MUFON’s primary goals are to:

Investigate UFO sightings and collect the data in the MUFON Database for use by researchers worldwide.

Promote research on UFOs to discover the true nature of the phenomenon, with an eye towards scientific breakthroughs, and improving life on our planet.

Educate the public on the UFO phenomenon and its potential impact on society.

Throughout its existence, MUFON has conducted numerous investigations into notable UFO sightings and encounters. Here are some of their most significant investigations:

1. Roswell Incident (1947): While MUFON was not involved in the original investigation, they have since collected and analyzed substantial amounts of information related to the alleged crash of an extraterrestrial craft near Roswell, New Mexico. MUFON’s research has helped contribute to the ongoing public interest and understanding of the incident.
2. Rendlesham Forest Incident (1980): MUFON played an active role in investigating one of the most famous UFO encounters in the United Kingdom. This incident involved multiple military witnesses who reported seeing strange lights and a landed craft in the Rendlesham Forest near RAF Bentwaters. MUFON’s investigation helped document the testimonies and collect evidence related to this incident.
3. Phoenix Lights (1997): MUFON conducted extensive research into the mass sighting of a series of lights over Phoenix, Arizona. Thousands of witnesses reported seeing a V-shaped formation of lights moving across the sky. MUFON’s investigation involved interviewing witnesses, analyzing photographs and videos, and collaborating with other organizations to study this intriguing event.
4. O’Hare International Airport Sighting (2006): When a group of airport employees and pilots reported seeing a metallic, disc-shaped object hovering over the terminal at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago, MUFON investigated the incident. The organization obtained witness testimonies, analyzed radar data, and examined airport security camera footage, contributing to the overall understanding of this sighting.
5. Stephenville Sightings (2008): MUFON conducted investigations into a series of sightings in and around Stephenville, Texas. Witnesses reported seeing unidentified craft maneuvering at high speeds and emitting unusual lights. MUFON’s work involved interviewing witnesses, examining radar data, and coordinating with other organizations to analyze the collected evidence.
6. Aguadilla Incident (2013): MUFON participated in the investigation of an intriguing UFO sighting captured by a Department of Homeland Security aircraft in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico. The recorded video showed an unidentified object skimming over the ocean and making various maneuvers. MUFON’s involvement included analyzing the footage and collaborating with experts to determine the nature of the object.

These investigations represent just a small fraction of MUFON’s extensive work in the field of ufology. Over the years, the organization has amassed a large database of UFO sightings and related information, promoting the scientific study of these phenomena and encouraging the public to report their experiences. MUFON continues to play a crucial role in advancing research, sharing knowledge, and fostering collaboration among individuals interested in the study of UFOs.