Nick Pope
Nick Pope is a freelance British journalist, media commentator and former civil servant. Whilst an employee at the British Government’s Ministry of Defence (MoD), Pope was responsible, among other duties, for investigating UFO phenomena to determine if they had any defense significance. His unique career trajectory has made him one of the world’s most recognizable figures in UFO research and commentary.
Career at the Ministry of Defence
Pope worked as a civil servant for the Ministry of Defence from 1985 to 2006. During those two decades, he served in various positions related to security, policy, and defense issues, but his most well-known assignment was from 1991 to 1994, when he worked in Secretariat (Air Staff) Sec (AS) 2a—better known as the “UFO desk.”
At that time, the Cold War had only recently ended, and the MoD still took a careful interest in unidentified aerial phenomena. Pope’s responsibilities included investigating reports of UFO sightings, assessing whether they represented potential defense threats, and determining if they warranted further study. Although much of what crossed his desk turned out to be misidentifications of ordinary objects or natural phenomena, some cases remained unexplained—sparking his lifelong interest in the subject.
Public Voice on UFOs and Defense
After leaving the MoD, Nick Pope became one of the foremost public commentators on UFOs, space, and defense policy. His insider experience and official capacity gave him a credibility that few others in the UFO field can claim. He has consistently emphasized that the UFO phenomenon is not necessarily evidence of extraterrestrials, but it is a legitimate defense and aviation safety issue.
He is frequently called upon by media outlets worldwide to provide expert analysis on breaking stories involving unidentified aerial phenomena, government investigations, and aerospace security. Pope has also testified before international panels and has spoken at major conferences, often bridging the gap between government policy, aviation safety, and public fascination with the unknown.
Media and Television Work
Nick Pope’s reputation as a credible and articulate expert has made him a regular presence in television and documentary programming. He has appeared on countless news broadcasts, talk shows, and investigative series across the globe, often serving as the “insider’s voice” on UFOs, government secrecy, and space exploration.
Among his most notable contributions is his long-running role on Ancient Aliens, the popular History Channel series that explores the mysteries of human origins, advanced technologies, and unexplained phenomena. Pope’s commentary on the show provides a unique blend of government insight and open-minded speculation, helping bridge the divide between official policy and the public’s enduring fascination with the unknown.
In addition to the televised series, Nick Pope also participates in Ancient Aliens Live—a touring stage production that brings together prominent experts and television personalities from the show. Through live presentations, panel discussions, and interactive sessions with audiences, Pope shares his knowledge in a dynamic and engaging format that extends beyond the TV screen.
His media work also includes consulting for films, documentaries, and video games with UFO or extraterrestrial themes, ensuring they benefit from his expertise and accuracy. This has positioned him not only as a researcher and commentator but also as a cultural figure who shapes how the public perceives UFOs and related mysteries.
Contributions as an Author
Beyond screen appearances, Pope is also a successful author. He has written six best-selling books covering UFOs, conspiracy theories, and science fiction themes, blending his investigative background with his talent as a communicator. His writing has reached both general readers and dedicated enthusiasts, further cementing his influence in the field.
Life Today
Nick Pope lectures all around the world, sharing both his experiences at the Ministry of Defence and his insights into ongoing developments in the study of unidentified aerial phenomena. He continues to advocate for a serious, evidence-based approach to UFO research, one that acknowledges both the need for open-mindedness and the importance of rigorous investigation.
Now living in the United States, he splits his time between San Jose, California, and Tucson, Arizona—remaining active in both media and research communities while continuing to write and speak internationally.