J. Allen Hynek
FOUNDER
J. Allen Hynek
Astronomer, UFO Researcher, Scientific Advisor to Project Blue Book
Professor, Northwestern University
Founder, Center for UFO Studies (CUFOS)
Josef Allen Hynek was an American astronomer, professor, and ufologist. He is perhaps best remembered for his UFO research. Hynek acted as scientific advisor to UFO studies undertaken by the U.S. Air Force under three projects: Project Sign (1947–1949), Project Grudge (1949–1951) and Project Blue Book (1952–1969). In later years, he conducted his own independent UFO research, developing the "Close Encounter" classification system. He was among the first people to conduct scientific analysis of reports and especially of trace evidence purportedly left by UFOs.
J. Allen Hynek is a key figure in UAP research and disclosure efforts.
On-Record Interviews
J. Allen Hynek appears on The Dick Cavett Show to discuss UFOs, Project Blue Book, and the scientific study of unexplained aerial phenomena. In this television interview, Hynek explains his "Close Encounter" classification system and advocates for serious research into the UFO phenomenon.
Hynek was interviewed on NBC's Today Show following the release of his book "The UFO Experience." He discussed the conclusions of Project Blue Book and argued that some UFO reports represented genuine anomalies that deserved scientific investigation.
Hynek gave numerous lectures at universities across the United States, presenting his research and advocating for the establishment of UFO studies as a legitimate scientific discipline. These lectures helped shape public and academic understanding of the UFO phenomenon during a period of mainstream skepticism.
On-Record Statements
"We should not close the door on the possibility that some of these UFO reports are of extraterrestrial origin. There is a small residue of cases that defy conventional explanation."
Testimony before the House Armed Services Committee, 1966
"The time has come for a serious, scientific study of the UFO phenomenon. We need to apply the same rigorous methods we use in astronomy and physics to these reports."
The UFO Experience: A Scientific Inquiry, 1972
"I must say that if I had to choose between the ETH (Extraterrestrial Hypothesis) and the null hypothesis, I would choose the ETH. The evidence, while not conclusive, points in that direction."
Interview with Omni magazine, 1983
"There is a tendency in the scientific community to reject any evidence that is not in accordance with the prevailing paradigm. This has delayed serious UFO research for decades."
Lecture at Northwestern University, 1978
Congressional Testimony
On April 5, 1966, J. Allen Hynek testified before the House Armed Services Committee during hearings on unidentified flying objects. His testimony followed a wave of UFO sightings in Michigan that had been dismissively attributed to "swamp gas" by the Air Force, a characterization Hynek had reluctantly endorsed but later regretted.
Connected Case Files
Media & Interviews
Selected interviews, lectures, and documentary appearances featuring Dr.. Each video has been vetted for quality and relevance.
Dr. J. Allen Hynek talks UFOs in a 1977 interview with Detroit radio personality J. P. McCarthy
Channel: Eyes On Cinema | Published: 7/7/2023 | 87 min · 21,898 views
Radio interview courtesy of John Matthews https://www.youtube.com/@deejaybrick. 87-minute interview, 1977. WJR 760 AM....
J. P. McCarthy interviews Dr. J. Allen Hynek about U.F.O.'s
Channel: John Matthews | Published: 5/6/2017 | 87 min · 41,393 views
This is an interview from circa 1977 with Dr. J. Allen Hynek. It is conducted by Detroit radio legend J.P. McCarthy of WJR 760 AM....
J Allen Hynek TV interview 1978
Channel: Red Panda Koala’s UFO History Archive | Published: 9/30/2024 | 13 min · 582 views
Tom Snyder Interviews Dr. J. Allen Hynek & Peter Gersten about the UFO Phenomenon - FindingUFO
Channel: FindingUFO | Published: 3/22/2017 | 16 min · 38,373 views
Dr. J. Allen Hynek on the UFO Phenomenon & Government Cover-ups. ➥ Follow This Channel on LBRY ➨ @FindingUFO ......
Project Blue Book - Dr. J. Allen Hynek Interviewed on WINS
Channel: UFO Archives | Published: 6/6/2014 | 44 min · 3,484 views
Dr. J. Allen Hynek is interviewed on WINS in 1968. 44:12....