UFOLOGY Glossary Series - N
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.
Nordics (Nordic Aliens)
Tall, human-like beings often described as having light skin, blue eyes, and blonde hair. Typically portrayed as benevolent or spiritually advanced. Frequently reported in contactee cases from the 1950s onward, and sometimes said to oppose the Greys or warn humanity of future dangers.
Non-Human Intelligence (NHI)
A general term used by researchers, military personnel, and experiencers to describe intelligences that do not originate from known human sources. NHI encompasses a range of possibilities, from extraterrestrial beings to interdimensional or artificial entities.
Nighttime Visitations
Abduction-related experiences or close encounters that occur at night, often involving sleep paralysis, strange lights, or the sudden appearance of entities beside the bed. A hallmark of CE-4 (abduction) phenomena.
Neutralization Beam
A directed beam of light or energy emitted from a UFO that causes temporary paralysis, unconsciousness, or disorientation. Often associated with immobilizing witnesses, aircraft, or vehicles
National UFO Reporting Center (NUFORC)
An independent organization founded in 1974 that collects and catalogs UFO sighting reports from the public in the U.S. Its database has become one of the most referenced resources in civilian ufology.
Nuclear Site Encounters (UFO Incidents)
Numerous reports link UFO activity with nuclear weapons sites, missile silos, and power plants. In some cases, witnesses claim that UFOs disabled nuclear warheads or hovered over restricted facilities during Cold War-era stand-offs.
Non-Lethal Testing (Abduction Reports)
Procedures described by abductees in which alien beings conduct medical or psychological experiments without causing permanent harm. Includes tissue sampling, reproductive studies, and mind scans.
Noise Distortion (UFO Proximity Effect)
Witnesses often report muffled or warped sound during close UFO encounters, as if reality itself is being dampened. This may include distorted speech, mechanical sounds, or complete silence ("the Oz Effect").
NHI Interface Experience
A type of contact where a person interacts with a non-human intelligence through a medium such as a hologram, telepathic field, or shared mental space. Often reported during CE-5 contact attempts.