"What is MUFON?"

"How does MUFON conduct an investigation?"

We receive UFO reports via contacts with local authorities and news media as well as at MUFON headquarters where an email team is on hand to respond. When alerted, the state or provincial director assigns one or more field investigators in the vicinity.

On-site investigations usually entail personal interviews with the witnesses; completion of appropriate sighting forms, written accounts and drawings to depict the scene; and assessment of the immediate environment. Collateral contacts with neighbors, police, air traffic control staff and others often shed light on a possible misperception or uncover more witnesses.

Investigators prepare a case report for review by their state/provincial director and MUFON’s director of investigations. Any materials needing technical analysis (e.g., photos or soil samples) are sent to experts in those fields.

Ultimately, all essential factors are entered into a computerized database for comparative analysis. We thus gain insights into the nature of aerial phenomena.

"Are investigators trained?"

Indeed they are. The cornerstone of our training is the MUFON Field Investigator’s Manual (Fourth Edition), a comprehensive guide for new trainees and veteran field investigators alike. Its 300+ pages are divided into 24 sections that cover every aspect of witness reports, from identifying misperceptions to handling sensitive physical evidence and claims of abduction.

State and provincial chapters offer formal training sessions in conjunction with membership meetings. A buddy system whereby newcomers join experienced investigators on case assignments works well.

Student UFO enthusiasts ages 12-17 may also receive investigative training, though active participation in ongoing cases is reserved for adults.

To achieve Field Investigator status, trainees must pass a 100-question, open-book exam that is based on the Manual as well as observations of aircraft and the night sky. The exam is fair but difficult – as it should be.

"Can I help in other ways?"

MUFON has Associate Member positions for those who prefer to contribute their time other than through investigations or research. These include translators of non-English UFO material, newsclipping contributors, amateur astronomers, and ham radio operators who gather on Saturday mornings for the MUFON Amateur Radio Net (40 meters – 7.237 MHz).

Plus, our local chapters are always seeking capable, reliable people to serve in a variety of functions.

"Can I just subscribe to the MUFON UFO JOURNAL?"

"Are there major conferences?"

Every summer since 1970, MUFON has hosted the International UFO Symposium. Authors, scientists, and other experts from around the world offer their latest research findings in sessions open to the public over a three-day weekend. The Symposium rotates through cities in the eastern, central and western states.

"Serious fun" aptly describes these multidimensional affairs. In most years a formal evening reception and informal social gatherings – in addition to UFO-related exhibits and vendor areas – complement the lecture series. Attendees feel at ease to discuss their own experiences and all aspects of the subject at length.

Regional gatherings across the continent occur in most months of the year, with MUFON recognition and member support. The Journal always includes a calendar of upcoming conferences.

"Does MUFON operate overseas?"

Indeed we do! Apart from our chapters in the provinces of Canada and the states of Mexico and Australia, in alphabetical order MUFON has representatives in: Austria, Belgium, Bolivia, Chile, China, Cyprus, Finland, France, Great Britain, Guatemala, Hong Kong, Iceland, Israel, Italy, Jordan, Malta, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Paraguay, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Turkey, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, and Zimbabwe.

Many MUFON foreign representatives lead UFO research groups within their own countries and share the information. We utilize the talents of multilingual members for translations as needed.

Years before the Soviet Union dissolved, tentative contacts had been established with UFO researchers there. Now their databases are unlocked and show great similarities to the American experience in the numbers, types, and circumstances of UFO encounters.

"Will my efforts be recognized?"

MUFON has federal tax-exempt status as a scientific research organization. That has been the extent of our formal connection with the federal government. We continue our efforts to convince the Congress and administrative agencies to declassify UFO-related military and intelligence-agency documents.