SRI UFO Research Project

Summary

In 1977, a researcher from the Stanford Research Institute (SRI) reached out to the CIA with a proposal for an ambitious study on the UFO phenomenon. The project aimed to gather government policies, analyze data, and develop alternative strategies. It sought to explore underemphasized aspects of the phenomenon and provide policy options. The proposal emphasized a multidisciplinary approach with scientific experts and consultants.

The CIA's General Counsel, Anthony Lapham, responded with skepticism but forwarded the proposal for evaluation. While it's unclear whether the CIA accepted the project, the document highlights the enduring interest in UFOs by powerful institutions. The idea of a national research plan remains relevant today, especially as public acknowledgment of the phenomenon continues to grow.