Declassified UFO / UAP Document
Flying Saucers
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AI-Generated Summary
A 1952 CIA memorandum evaluating 'flying saucer' reports, noting that most are explained as natural phenomena or U.S. equipment. It recommends continued secret surveillance to avoid public alarm.
This informal memorandum, dated August 1, 1952, and authored by Edward Tauss, provides an evaluation of 'flying saucer' reports for the Deputy Assistant Director/SI. The document notes that out of 1,000 to 2,000 reports received by the Air Technical Intelligence Center (ATIC), a significant portion are considered 'phoney' or can be explained as known U.S. aircraft, weather balloons, or natural phenomena such as meteorites and cloud formations. Fewer than 100 reports are classified as 'unexplainable' at the time of writing. The author suggests that these remaining reports should continue to be evaluated. The memorandum recommends that the CIA maintain surveillance of the subject in coordination with ATIC. Crucially, it advises that the CIA should avoid letting its interest in the matter become public knowledge, citing a desire to prevent 'alarmist tendencies' regarding the 'soundness of unpublished facts' held by the U.S. Government. Finally, the author notes that arrangements have been made for a comprehensive briefing at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base on August 8, 1952, to further analyze the situation.
It is strongly urged, however, that no indication of CIA interest or concern reach the press or public, in view of their probable alarmist tendencies to accept such interest as 'confirmatory' of the soundness of 'unpublished facts' in the hands of the U. S. Government.
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Official Assessment
A large percentage of reports are 'phoney' or explained as known flights of U.S. equipment or natural phenomena. Less than 100 reports remain 'unexplainable'.
The author recommends continued CIA surveillance of the subject in coordination with ATIC. It is advised that no indication of CIA interest should reach the public to avoid alarmist tendencies.