CIA and Student Papers on UFOs

Summary

In November 1959, Dr. Thornton Page from Wesleyan University sent student papers on UFOs to a contact in Washington. Philip G. Strong, representing the CIA, responded with interest in reviewing the documents. He asked that the agency not be identified, suggesting instead that the papers would be reviewed by part of the national defense establishment. The letter shows how the CIA was interested in academic reports on unidentified aerial phenomena, keeping its involvement secret. This kind of exchange reflected institutional concern about UFOs at the time.

Strong did not specify what would be done with the papers, but expressed gratitude for the initiative of Dr. Page. The careful and discreet communication suggests the CIA wanted to keep its interest in UFOs low-profile. Although the outcome of the review is unknown, the letter is an example of how authorities handled the topic with caution, avoiding public alarm or speculation. This document is a testimony of official curiosity about unexplained phenomena in the sky.