HOW TO CLASSIFY AND CODIFY SAUCER SIGHTINGS

In this document, Jacques Valléé addresses the challenge of managing the voluminous and growing body of 'flying saucer' sighting reports. He argues that the current state of investigation requires a systematic method of classification and codification to allow for effective analytical exploitation of the data. Valléé introduces a codification system designed to reduce diverse reports into a limited number of well-defined types, which he believes will assist in identifying recurring characteristics across the field. The proposed system utilizes a punched card format, where specific columns are dedicated to recording coordinates, date, time, location, and various secondary characteristics of the sightings. Valléé outlines four primary categories for sightings: Type I (spherical or discoid objects on or near the ground), Type II (vertical cylindrical forms, further divided into IIa and IIb), Type III (stationary objects in the atmosphere), and Type IV (objects in continuous movement). He provides illustrative examples of these types, citing reports from Argentina, France, and Russia. The author emphasizes that this classification is intended to simplify statistical analysis and does not imply a pre-conceived notion regarding the physical or psychological nature of the phenomena. He explicitly warns that many sightings may be misidentified natural phenomena or hallucinations, and that the classification system is a tool for researchers rather than a definitive explanation of the objects themselves. The document concludes by detailing the specific coding conventions for the punched cards, including fields for the number of witnesses, radar contact, physical traces, and electromagnetic effects. Valléé maintains that while this system is not final, it provides a necessary framework for the rigorous study of UAP reports.