To address the witness who simply wants to report a sighting he can do so here by simply clicking the "File Your Own Report" button on the left. otherwise a search of your locality should find a local investigator. From there arrange to meet with the group and watch their reaction. Many paranormal groups concentrate on ghosts these days so ask questions. See if they seem interested in your case. If not then find another group. There is no certification or other organiuzation which controls these groups so it's buyer beware! And if they ask a fee of any kind, RUN!. Most investigators do not charge for their work, the ones out to make a fast buck at your expense do!

That said the other purpose here is to guide those who want to begin investigating in getting started. So let's begin. Unlike the ghost hunting field, UFO research has not seen all the hype from TV that has brought a lot of attention. Consequently there are not many who do UFO cases exclusively. Some paranormal investigators claim to do everything but a quick look at their website shows mostly what they do are ghosts and hauntings. So what if you actually want to do UFOs?

With ghost hunting the emphasis seems to be on starting a group. They get a team together to do their work. With UFO investigation it really isn't that much of a group effort. Of course a group can do it, but since the biggest part of the work is simply interviewing and getting testimony to what was seen a team is not required. I often do cases alone or possibly with just someone along for company. Even some of the field work can be done alone because you generally also have the witness with you to relate his story. You still have someone who can get help if you fall and twist an ankle or something.

About the only advantage to a group is in a situation where the group covers a large area. If you have members covering several states it allows someone to respond quickly. UFO reports come in at any time without warning. It's not like ghost and haunting cases where the phenomena as been ongoing. Because it is also important to get an investigator on the scene as soon as possible after the event to preserve any possible evidence, if you have a group hopefully there is a nearby member who can be called to respond. Once there that person can make contact with any witnesses and begin the investigation process.

Once you obtain the witness statement the real work is done back at your desk. Making calls and trying to put together what he saw is easily done alone. Of course if you have a friend who is also interested the two of you can work together. But unlike most other types of investigation the group isn't really necessary.

Of course this doesn't mean you don't need anyone to help you. Ceratinly you need consultants and contacts. More about that in the Methods section! But these people don't need to be part of an organized group unless they too share your interest. UFO cases can be done either with a group or alone, it's up to you.