📚 UAP Glossary | 🔍 Classification Methods

Hynek Classic Classification (1972)

The most classic system created by J. Allen Hynek:

Close Encounters | Level | Definition | Example | |-------|------------|------’ ---| | CE-1 | Sight UFO but no impact | Most sightings | | CE-2 | UFO leaves physical traces | Cash-Landrum | | CE-3 | Sight alien beings | Ariel School | | CE-4 | Abduction | Travis Walton | | CE-5 | Active communication | Steven Greer |

Vallee Classification (1969)

Jacques Vallee’s more detailed system divides into 8 MA (Manifestation) types, emphasizing the physical and psychological impact of UFOs.

Modern UAP Classification (AARO 2022)

Modern classification used by the U.S. Department of Defense AARO:

• Airborne UAP: Unidentified objects within the atmosphere
• Waterborne UAP: Unidentified objects in oceans/lakes (trans-medium)
• Spaceborne UAP: Unidentified objects in Earth orbit

NUFORC Classification

Classification from NUFORC, the world’s largest sighting report database:

• Triangle (most common)
• Sphere/Orb (most common)
• Disc (classic)
• Cigar (large size)
• Diamond
• Irregular shape

Schematic diagram of common UFO shape classifications

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📚 References: Hynek books, Vallee works, AARO documents