UFOLOGY Glossary Series - F
A series to help people new to the topic understand the terms, concepts, and language used in the study of UFOs and alien phenomena.
The world of ufology is vast, mysterious, and often overwhelming for newcomers and seasoned researchers alike. With decades of reports, theories, terminology, and classifications, understanding the language of UFO research is essential for making sense of the phenomena.
This Ufology Glossary is designed to be a living, evolving reference guide for anyone interested in the study of unidentified flying objects, alien encounters, and the deeper mysteries of our universe. Whether you're exploring government disclosures, diving into abduction accounts, or just trying to decipher terms like “CE-5” or “anti-gravity propulsion,” this glossary is your companion through the strange and fascinating world of UFO phenomena.
Each entry is organized alphabetically and includes clear, concise definitions to help demystify the language used by researchers, experiencers, and theorists across the field.
We begin with the letter A, and from there, the glossary will continue to grow—entry by entry, mystery by mystery.
False Flag Alien Invasion
A conspiracy theory suggesting that world governments might stage a fake alien invasion or signings to justify acts or to divert public attention.
Fear Screen (Abduction Phenomenon)
A psychological projection used by alien entities to mask their true appearance, typically causing abductees to perceive animals, familiar people, or abstract forms instead of the actual beings.
Field Distortion (UFO Effect)
The phenomenon where the space around a UFO appears warped, rippled, or altered—often affecting gravity, time perception, or visibility.
First Contact
The initial open interaction between humanity and extraterrestrial beings. It can refer to an individual experience or a global-scale event.
Flash of Light (UFO Encounter)
A sudden, intense burst of light associated with the appearance, departure, or abduction mechanism of a UFO.
Flying Saucer
A classic disc-shaped UFO design, popularized in the mid-20th century, often associated with sightings during the post-WWII era.
Foo Fighters
Mysterious aerial phenomena reported by Allied pilots during World War II—typically glowing orbs or lights that followed aircraft. Often considered an early wave of modern UFO sightings.
Forensic Ufology
The detailed analysis of physical evidence left behind in UFO encounters, including trace elements, radiation signatures, landing marks, and material samples.
Fragment (Alien Material)
A piece of alleged alien technology or debris recovered from crash sites or encounter scenes. Often subjected to scientific testing for unusual composition.
Frequency Shift (Contact Phenomenon)
A change in perceived audio, electromagnetic, or mental frequency during contact with extraterrestrial beings—often associated with telepathy or disorientation.
Frozen Time (Abduction Reports)
The sensation or observation that time has stopped, slowed, or looped during an encounter, commonly reported by abductees and close encounter witnesses.
Fuel-less Propulsion
A theorized method of movement used by UFOs, often suggesting anti-gravity, zero-point energy, or magnetic field manipulation, without visible means of combustion or thrust.
Flashbulb Memory (UFO Witnesses)
A vivid and lasting recollection of a UFO event, often reported by witnesses who feel emotionally or psychologically marked by the experience.
Flying Triangle
A type of UFO sighting involving a black, triangular craft with lights at each corner—frequently reported at low altitude and associated with silent, slow movement.
Frequency Interference (UFO Proximity)
Disturbances in radios, GPS, television, or mobile devices during nearby UFO sightings, attributed to electromagnetic fields or exotic propulsion systems.