Show notes
FBI documents from July and August 1947 detail numerous reports of unidentified flying objects, often described as "flying discs" or "flying saucers." The reports, originating from various locations across the United States, include descriptions of the objects' shapes, movements, and characteristics, along with witness accounts. The FBI investigated some of these reports, but many were dismissed as misidentified aircraft, atmospheric phenomena, or hoaxes. The documents reveal the public and media interest in the phenomenon, with several news agencies attempting to report on the events.
The FBI has been involved in the UFO saga since the 1940s, back when flying saucers were the hottest thing since sliced bread—or at least since Roswell, New Mexico, made headlines. They've collected numerous reports, but it seems their role was more like the designated note-taker at a meeting where everyone else is arguing about whether the lights in the sky are alien disco balls or just really fancy weather balloons. A particularly famous document is the Guy Hottel memo from 1950, which has become the most viewed file in the FBI's online Vault. It describes three so-called "flying saucers" that were supposedly recovered in New Mexico with occupants described as "human-like but three feet tall." However, the FBI was quick to note this was an unconfirmed account, essentially saying, "We wrote it down, but don't ask us to dance to it."Over the years, the FBI has clarified that their role was mostly supportive to the Air Force's investigations (like Project Blue Book) rather than leading the charge into the great unknown. They've received numerous UFO sightings reports, but after 1950, they largely passed the baton to the Air Force, focusing instead on ensuring no national security was compromised by these aerial acrobatics.And let’s not forget the modern twist with posts on X where the FBI playfully acknowledges their past with UFOs, suggesting they've had their eyes on the skies longer than we might think.So, in summary, the FBI's stance on UFOs is a bit like humanity's relationship with the universe itself—full of curiosity, a dash of skepticism, and an overwhelming amount of paperwork. They've seen the lights, noted the phenomena, but left the dancing to the professionals. Or perhaps, to the aliens themselves.