When it comes to exploring the mysteries of unidentified flying objects, few resources are as informative and insightful as Allan Hendry‘s “The UFO Handbook: A Guide to Investigating, Evaluating, and Reporting UFO Sightings.” First published in 1979, the book continues to be an invaluable reference for UFO enthusiasts, researchers, and investigators alike. In this review, I will delve into the contents of the book and highlight its significance in the field of UFOlogy.
Content
“The UFO Handbook” is a comprehensive guide to investigating UFO sightings, offering a methodical approach to evaluating and reporting these enigmatic phenomena. Hendry, an astronomer and seasoned UFO investigator, presents a wealth of knowledge and experience in the book, which is divided into several key sections:
- Introduction to UFOs: Hendry provides an overview of the history and development of UFO research, highlighting the importance of a scientific approach to investigations.
- Investigation Techniques: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to detailing various investigative methods, ranging from interviewing witnesses to analyzing photographs and physical evidence. This section is particularly valuable for those looking to conduct their own UFO investigations.
- Evaluation and Reporting: Hendry discusses the importance of objective evaluation and accurate reporting of UFO sightings, emphasizing the need for skepticism and open-mindedness when examining cases.
- The Hendry Classification System: The author introduces his classification system, which categorizes UFO sightings into distinct groups, such as nocturnal lights, daylight discs, and close encounters.
- Case Studies: Hendry provides numerous examples of UFO sightings and investigations, illustrating how the methodologies discussed in the book can be applied to real-life cases.
Significance
“The UFO Handbook” is a must-read for anyone interested in UFOlogy, particularly those who wish to pursue investigations themselves. The book’s focus on scientific methodology, critical thinking, and skepticism sets it apart from many other UFO-related publications, which often lean towards sensationalism and unfounded speculation.
Hendry’s background as an astronomer and his work with the Center for UFO Studies (CUFOS) lends credibility to the book, demonstrating that the study of UFOs can be approached with the same rigor and discipline as any other scientific field. Furthermore, his case studies provide valuable insights into the process of evaluating and reporting sightings, offering readers a glimpse into the mind of an experienced UFO investigator.
Summary
In conclusion, “The UFO Handbook” by Allan Hendry is a timeless resource for those seeking to better understand the complexities of UFO investigations. Its emphasis on scientific rigor, objectivity, and thoroughness has helped to elevate the field of UFOlogy, inspiring future generations of researchers and enthusiasts to approach the subject with a critical and open-minded perspective. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in UFOs, regardless of their level of expertise.