Description:
(Astronomer, Ufologist)
Dr. Josef Allen Hynek was an American astronomer and ufologist most famous for his research on UFOs (unidentified flying objects). He had served as scientific adviser to the UFO studies which were undertaken by the U.S. Air Force after which he became involved in his own independent study of the UFOs. Eventually he developed a system of describing UFO sightings into six categories based on factors like distance of sighting, appearances, and special features. This system, known as the Close Encounter classification system, established him as one of the foremost authorities on this subject. Hynek had developed an early interest in astronomy after his mother read to him a book on the subject when he was a little boy. He was also intrigued by the mysteries of the world and developed an interest in occult. In fact as a teenager he spent a massive amount of money in buying a book on occult while his friends preferred to buy motorcycles! The curious young man ventured into astronomy in an attempt to reveal the weaknesses of science. Initially a skeptic, he eventually acknowledged the fact that astronomers do sight UFOs and immersed himself in research to unlock the mystery of the UFOs.
Birthday
May 1, 1910 (Taurus)
Alternative names
Dr. Josef Allen Hynek
City
Chicago, Illinois
Died on
April 27, 1986
Spouse/Ex-
Miriam Curtis
Parents
Children
Joel
What is the significance of J. Allen Hynek in the field of ufology?
J. Allen Hynek was an astronomer and ufologist who is known for his research and classification system of UFO sightings, popularly known as the Close Encounter scale.
What was J. Allen Hynek's role in the United States Air Force's Project Blue Book?
J. Allen Hynek served as a scientific consultant for Project Blue Book, a U.S. Air Force program dedicated to investigating UFO reports and sightings from 1952 to 1969.
How did J. Allen Hynek's views on UFOs evolve over time?
Initially skeptical of UFO sightings, J. Allen Hynek's views evolved as he conducted more research and investigations, eventually leading him to advocate for a more scientific and open-minded approach to the study of UFO phenomena.
What is J. Allen Hynek's legacy in the field of ufology and how has he influenced the study of unidentified aerial phenomena?
J. Allen Hynek's legacy lies in his pioneering work in ufology, his development of the Close Encounter scale, and his advocacy for a systematic and scientific approach to studying UFOs, which continues to influence researchers and enthusiasts in the field today.