UFOLOGY Glossary Series - R
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 continue now with the letter R—rich with military terms, contactee lore, and high-strangeness.
Radar-Visual Cases
UFO sightings confirmed by both radar instrumentation and direct visual observation. These are among the most compelling types of reports in ufology, offering physical and eyewitness evidence simultaneously. Notable examples include the 1952 Washington, D.C. UFO flap and the 1980 RAF Bentwaters incident. Radar-visual cases are often cited in military and aviation circles as "unexplained aerial phenomena" due to their credibility.
Reverse Engineering (UFO Technology)
The alleged process of attempting to replicate alien technology recovered from crashed or captured UFOs. This theory is central to claims about secret military programs operating in facilities like Area 51 or S-4. Whistleblowers like Bob Lazar popularized the idea that propulsion systems, element 115, and advanced materials were studied in extreme secrecy. While no hard proof has been made public, reverse engineering remains a cornerstone of conspiracy and black-budget narratives.
Reticulans (Greys from Zeta Reticuli)
A common term used to describe the classic “Grey” alien beings, specifically those said to originate from the binary star system Zeta Reticuli. The term gained popularity after the Betty and Barney Hill abduction case, where a star map shown to Betty was later theorized to depict Zeta Reticuli. Reticulans are often described as emotionless, telepathic beings involved in abduction and hybridization programs.
Rendlesham Forest Incident
A major UFO encounter that occurred in December 1980 near RAF Bentwaters and Woodbridge in Suffolk, England. Often called “Britain’s Roswell,” the case involved multiple U.S. military personnel who reported seeing strange lights, a landed craft, and experiencing bizarre effects such as time distortion and radiation exposure. Official explanations remain disputed, and the case is still investigated by researchers due to the number of credible witnesses and military documentation.
Reptilian Beings
A controversial and often sensationalized class of alleged extraterrestrials or interdimensional entities described as humanoid reptiles. Frequently linked to theories of hidden control over world governments, underground bases, and shape-shifting. While some abduction accounts include Reptilian beings as aggressive or dominant figures, others interpret them symbolically—as manifestations of fear or power dynamics during altered states.
Regression Hypnosis (Abduction Research)
A technique used to recover supposed hidden or suppressed memories of alien abduction experiences. Popularized in the 1980s and 1990s by researchers like Budd Hopkins and Dr. David Jacobs, regression hypnosis has been a key tool in shaping the abduction narrative. While controversial—due to risks of false memory—it remains an influential method within experiencer communities.
Resonance Craft (Vibrational Propulsion Theory)
A fringe but intriguing theory suggesting that some UFOs operate via vibrational or resonance-based propulsion, allowing them to manipulate gravity and matter. These craft may seem to "hum," "buzz," or remain silent, hinting at frequency manipulation. Some witnesses report sensations of internal vibration or disorientation during close encounters—possibly tied to these propulsion methods
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