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The Truth Is Out There: UFO Conference In Irvine Urges Scientific Methods

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Photo by jurvetson via Flickr

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A UFO convention held this weekend Irvine had a decidedly scientific message. The Mutual UFO Network symposium emphasized the need for researchers and investigators to keep an open mind, but to implement higher standards of precision and scientific method into their field of study, according to the L.A. Times.

As a certified field investigators studying all variety of unexplained craft to alien-human hybrids to time travel to anti-gravity propulsion, it is essential to take good notes, get your paperwork in order, follow protocol, pack recording devices, and sometimes a Geiger counter and respirator.

"We all want to believe, we all want to believe bad," said David MacDonald, a certified investigator with the Mutual UFO Network. "But you've got to look at the evidence. You've got to come at this like a scientific researcher."

Protocols were discussed, like making sure the witness signed the proper documents, and always carry the laminated Mutual UFO Network identification badge. And be professional. You don't want to anger the non-believers or our E.T. brothers and sisters.

Many of the unidentified flying objects reported to the network can be easily explained — satellites traveling through the night sky, atmospheric reflections, or even a paraglider with a peculiar parachute. But there are occasions when no answers can be found. That's when it just might be a visitor from beyond.

The job's biggest occupational hazard? A lack of respect for being viewed as a fringe group. Barbara Lamb, a psychotherapist who works with "experiencers" says the scientific community does not consider their evidence as legitimate evidence. Into that category also falls artist Cynthia Crawford who says she has alien guides and claims to be a human-extraterrestrial hybrid.

The hybrids, she said, often have high foreheads and thin faces with long, skinny noses. Crawford, however, has a round face framed by thick blond hair. "I think I look human," she said. She turned her head and widened her eyes. "Do you think I look human?"

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