Alternate Horizons Newsletter - Vol 4 No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: Alternate Horizons Newsletter
Issue: Volume Four, Whole Number 19, Number One
Date: December 30, 1969 (Cover date inferred from correspondence)
Publisher: FOUNDATION FOR PHILOSOPHIC ADVANCEMENT

This issue of Alternate Horizons Newsletter delves into theoretical physics, UFOlogy, and the preservation of historical records related to unidentified flying objects.

The Incredible Shrinking Men

This article by Joseph M. Erhardt explores the scientific possibility of shrinking matter. It posits that since atoms are largely empty space, reducing the distance between electrons and the nucleus could drastically decrease an atom's volume. The author explains that to shrink matter, energy must be extracted, potentially 7/8 of its absolute energy content (E=mc²). This reduction would also decrease the mass and weight of the object. The article discusses the challenges of maintaining such a reduced state, including the immense energy required for extraction and the potential need for environmental energy 'drainage' or a stored energy supply for restoration. The consequences of uncontrolled expansion are explored, including the possibility of drawing energy from the environment, leading to near-absolute zero temperatures, or even the creation of antimatter. The military applications of such 'time bombs' are described as potentially more potent than nuclear weapons, but without fallout.

Space Children and UFO Theory Trends

The newsletter includes correspondence from Paul Gregory, who is researching 'Space Children' cases – instances where children are involved with alleged Space People. Gregory categorizes these cases into 'Indirect Involvement' (children appearing mysteriously with unusual features) and 'Direct Involvement' (contactee lore). He provides an example of the Cynthia Appleton contact affair in 1959.

Allen H. Greenfield, the editor, contributes an article discussing a potential new trend in UFO theory: the 'alternate reality theory' (AR). He suggests this might be the first fundamental shift in UFOlogy theory since its organization. Greenfield notes the prominence of this theory in British UFOlogy and references publications like BUFORA Journal and Flying Saucer Review. He cautions against AR dogmatism, comparing it to interplanetary or natural phenomena dogmatism, and suggests that AR and interplanetary theories might not necessarily conflict.

Project Blue Book Files Preservation

A significant portion of the newsletter is dedicated to the preservation of Project Blue Book files. Allen H. Greenfield writes to Senator Richard B. Russell, expressing concern that the U.S. Air Force might discontinue operation of Project Blue Book and urging that its files be kept intact, possibly in the Library of Congress. Greenfield argues that this information, regardless of the objective reality of UFOs, could be valuable for scientists and researchers, potentially for sociological studies.

Senator Russell responds, acknowledging the merit of Greenfield's suggestion. He confirms that he has communicated with the proper officials in the Department of the Air Force, urging that the files be retained. A subsequent letter from Senator Russell, dated January 16, 1970, encloses a report from the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force.

The Air Force's response, dated January 9, 1970, confirms that the documents accumulated over 21 years of investigating UFOs are considered of definite historical value. They will be stored intact at the Air Force Archives, Maxwell AFB, Alabama, and access will be granted to bona fide researchers and news media representatives upon application to Headquarters USAF (SAFOI) at the Pentagon.

New Zealand Sightings and Impressions

The newsletter also reports on UFO-related events in New Zealand, citing articles from various publications. These include an article from The National Enquirer about a university research team confirming evidence of UFOs, specifically a circular marking at Bert O'Neil's farm. Information supplied by William E. Moser of UFOIC-Sydney leads to further details about sightings by farmer Bill Risi and others, involving multiple witnesses and animal reactions. Another report from The Auckland Star describes a sighting near Whangarei. Additionally, articles from the Daily Telegraph detail impressions on Bert O'Neil's farm, a related radiation angle, and two more impressions discovered by C.T. Johnson on his farm, where his horse exhibited unusual behavior. An incident on October 7, 1969, is also mentioned, and the O'Neil farm impression was reportedly first seen on September 4, 1969.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the speculative nature of scientific advancement (shrinking matter), the evolving theoretical landscape of UFOlogy (alternate reality theory, space children), and the importance of preserving historical data related to UFO investigations. The editorial stance, as evidenced by Greenfield's actions and the newsletter's content, is one of active inquiry, critical analysis of emerging theories, and a strong advocacy for the accessibility and preservation of UFO-related research materials.