Vander Ploeg, Dirk

Dirk Vander Ploeg (+ June 2015) was a Canadian author, editor and publisher who was involved in the field of UFO research for over 30 years. He was the founder and editor of UFO Digest, an online magazine that covers topics such as UFOs, aliens, paranormal, cryptozoology and ancient mysteries. He also ran PsiTalk, a podcast that features interviews with experts and witnesses on various aspects of the unexplained. He has written a book called Quest for Middle Earth, which explores the connections between J.R.R. Tolkien's works and the lost history of Earth as revealed by Norse mythology.

Vander Ploeg had a keen interest in the history and origins of humanity and believes that aliens may have played a role in our evolution by genetically modifying Homo erectus into Homo sapiens. He also believed that some aliens are religious and followers of Jesus Christ, while others are reptilian and hostile to humans. He has investigated many UFO cases, including the famous Rendlesham Forest incident, which he co-authored a book about with Nick Pope, John Burroughs, and Jim Penniston.

Vander Ploeg was one of the most prolific and influential figures in the UFO community and has contributed to many publications and media outlets. He was always open to new evidence and perspectives and strives to provide real video and photographic proof of UFOs and the paranormal.