Ufology Gets Much Needed Attention
by Steve Bass, Cert-II 
State Section Director, Mutual UFO Network
Fellow, Research Institute on Anomalous Phenomena
Kharkiv, Ukraine
(Copyright © 2008 by Steve Bass. All rights reserved.)
Once in a blue moon, though, you get the case every quality, serious investigator wants, the case with trace evidence. Trace evidence is that evidence left in the aftermath of a sighting. This evidence can be in the form of broken tree limbs, impressions left in the earth after a reported landing, physiological changes to surrounding flora, or burn marks from some sort of radiation exposure. There could also be physical evidence on the witness (es) as well, such as burns, skin discolorations, or evidence of recent surgical procedures the origins of which are unknown to the witness.
Photo and video evidence that is very detailed, with visible points of reference to determine size, elevation, direction of travel and speed, are not poorly illuminated or taken from too distant a vantage point can generate an interesting case, as well. With the advent of CGI, though, attention has to be paid to the integrity of the evidence and the witness, since this can have a negative effect on an investigation.
Trace evidence samples are taken by certified field investigators, properly packaged and catalogued, and sent to specialists utilized by MUFON for testing. These specialists are experts in their fields, often having a doctorate level education and are very qualified to render an opinion on the components or qualities of possibly anomalous materials.
Much of this was evident in the three episodes of "UFO's Over Earth". All three episodes showed a step-by-step investigation conducted in a reality-based format, as opposed to a recreation. Not present were the attempts at over-hype included in most UFO-related documentaries. It seems as if some shows depend on the hype to carry their ratings through the season. Also absent was a tendency some shows have at playing up cases that have already been successfully debunked by serious Ufologists.
All said, my impression of "UFO's Over Earth" was extremely favorable. It displayed MUFON investigators in a good light, highlighting their professionalism and skill, as well as their dedication to find the truth. Sorely missed were the painstaking efforts and the time investment required of these investigators, who take time away from their families and friends without monetary compensation to further a field of study. I have a sincere hope that Discovery Channel will see the worth in converting this quality miniseries into a continuing series. The resulting positive effects on Ufology by allowing a factual, quality investigation to be chronicled are much needed in a world where insincere and often idiotic attempts at UFO portrayal and sometimes hate-filled debunking are the norm.
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