Featured Document Display: 50 Years Ago: Government Stops Investigating UFOs

Report of a “flying saucer” over U.S. airspace in 1947 caused a wave of “UFO hysteria” and sparked Federal investigation of unidentified flying objects. For more than 20 years, the U.S. Air Force analyzed UFO sightings and any security threat they posed; most notably through Project Blue Book, which launched in 1952. 

Project Blue Book concluded its investigation 50 years ago, but American fascination with UFOs endures. These records were created or collected by Project Blue Book and are presented in recognition of this milestone anniversary and Americans' ongoing curiosity.

East Rotunda Gallery, December 5, 2019 through January 16, 2020.