UFOLOGY Glossary Series - S
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.
Screen Memory
The phenomenon where an experiencer recalls a benign or familiar image—such as an owl, deer, or a person in costume—in place of a more traumatic or otherworldly encounter. These “masks” often begin to break down over time or through regression hypnosis, revealing what some believe to be hidden memories of contact with non-human entities.
Scoop Mark
A small, circular indentation in the skin that appears without known cause—commonly reported by alleged abductees. These marks often resemble a patch of flesh having been “scooped” out and are typically painless. Their sudden appearance is frequently associated with missing time, dreams of procedures, or bright lights during the night.
Sleep Paralysis
A temporary state in which a person is conscious but unable to move, often occurring between waking and sleep. While science attributes this to a neurological glitch, many abduction reports begin with sleep paralysis—accompanied by the sensation of a presence in the room, shadow figures, or floating sensations. The line between clinical explanation and paranormal interpretation remains deeply contested.
Starseed
A person who believes they originate from another star system or dimension and have incarnated on Earth for a specific mission. Popular within New Age and hybridisation belief systems, starseeds often report memories of other worlds, a sense of cosmic purpose, or an inner knowing that Earth is not their true home.
Structured Craft
Refers to a solid, defined UFO—such as a triangle, disc, or cigar-shaped object—capable of high-speed flight, sharp directional changes, or hovering silently. Unlike orbs or lights, these craft exhibit physical structure and are frequently reported by military personnel and pilots in high-credibility sightings.
Signal Intelligence (SIGINT)
The gathering and analysis of intercepted signals, often used in military and intelligence operations. In ufology, SIGINT refers to unexplained radar returns, jammed communications, or electromagnetic anomalies coinciding with UFO encounters. Some of the most well-documented military sightings, including the Nimitz and Rendlesham events, involved significant SIGINT disruptions.
Skinwalker Ranch
A notorious hotspot in Utah linked to UFOs, cryptids, poltergeist activity, and government-funded research. Skinwalker Ranch gained attention after reports of strange lights, cattle mutilations, portals, and "non-human entities" began surfacing in the 1990s. It was later investigated by Bigelow Aerospace Advanced Space Studies (BAASS) and is widely considered one of the most active and enigmatic paranormal locations in the United States.
S-4 (Site Four)
A secretive facility allegedly located near Area 51 and heavily referenced by whistleblower Bob Lazar. According to Lazar’s claims, S-4 housed multiple extraterrestrial craft and was the site of reverse engineering experiments focused on advanced propulsion. Although the existence of S-4 remains unverified, it has become a staple in discussions of hidden military knowledge and alien technology.
Shadow Beings (or Shadow People)
Dark, humanoid silhouettes often seen during sleep paralysis, but also widely reported during alleged alien encounters. Unlike typical ghosts, shadow beings are often described as intelligent and observing—sometimes even wearing cloaks or hats. Some theorists suggest they may be interdimensional beings, precursors to contact, or entities that appear alongside UFO phenomena.
Solway Firth Spaceman
A famous photograph taken in 1964 by Jim Templeton in Cumbria, England. While photographing his daughter, Templeton captured what appears to be a tall, helmeted figure in the background. Kodak confirmed the image had not been altered, and its origin remains unexplained. The case drew the attention of alleged government agents and has since become one of the most iconic mystery images in ufology.
Shag Harbour Incident
A 1967 UFO crash reported off the coast of Nova Scotia, Canada. Witnesses—including Royal Canadian Mounted Police—saw lights descend into the water. Official investigations classified the object as a "UFO," and a recovery operation was launched, but no wreckage was found. The case remains one of the few in which a government agency openly referred to an object as an unidentified flying object.
Stigmata (in Abduction Contexts)
While traditionally associated with religious miracles, the term “stigmata” is sometimes used in abduction lore to describe spontaneous wounds, burns, or symbols that appear on the skin of experiencers. These marks may coincide with dreams of rituals, genetic harvesting, or psychic messages—blurring the line between spiritual and extraterrestrial contact.