American UFO Committee Review - 1964 03 - Vol 1 No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: AMERICAN UFO COMMITTEE REVIEW
Issue: Vol. 1, No. 1
Date: March, 1964
Publisher: American UFO Committee
Country: USA
Language: English

This inaugural issue of the AMERICAN UFO COMMITTEE REVIEW, published in March 1964, marks the debut of a new organization dedicated to the serious and scientific study of UFOs. The magazine's cover prominently features "THE KYW PHOTO," with a promise of details on page 12, and announces the publication's editorial staff: Allen Greenfield, Dale Rettig, and Rick Hilberg.

Introduction: The American UFO Committee

The introduction details the formation of the American UFO Committee (AUFOC) on November 9, 1963, through the merger of the United Research Council of UFOlogy and the Illinois Aerial Phenomena Agency. The Committee boasts approximately 1,000 members across the United States and overseas. It is administered by three executive directors: Allen Greenfield (Editorial and Operations), Dale Rettig (Communications and Publications), and Rick Hilberg (Public Relations and Education). AUFOC's primary goals are serious, conservative UFO inquiry and public education, aiming to preserve ufology as a scientific movement. The committee adopts a policy of "sensible open-mindedness" and applies the scientific method, notably stating that no concrete evidence has been offered by 'contactees' to substantiate claims of extraterrestrial contact. Membership costs $2.00 per year and includes subscriptions to the REVIEW (published bi-annually in March and September) and additional bulletins. The issue also notes that former members of URCU, IAPA, and other related organizations are now part of AUFOC and addresses potential renewal date issues.

Editorial: To Preserve A Movement

Allen Greenfield's editorial expresses concern over the decline of UFOlogy as a scientific movement over the past three years, attributing it to a lack of fresh approaches, failure to attract congressional attention, and discrediting efforts by the media and Air Force. He criticizes the trend of scientific UFO publications turning to the 'lunatic fringe' for material, fearing it will pervert the subject into a 'crackpot farce.' Greenfield notes the inactivity of established groups like NICAP and APRO, allowing 'profiteers' to gain prominence. He asserts that AUFOC's mission is to preserve ufology as a scientific movement, move it from a 'defensive' stance, and 'press forward on the attack.' He calls for member cooperation, urging them to recruit new members, renew subscriptions, and remain active. The editorial also promotes attendance at the Congress of Scientific UFOlogists in Cleveland, Ohio, on June 15th, highlighting its personal and movement benefits, with no cost beyond personal expenses.

Aerodynamics of the Disc: Propulsion of the disc-type ufo

James Kemple's article explores the propulsion systems of saucer-shaped UFOs. He posits that 99% of researchers agree that disc-type UFOs are powered by an electromagnetic field that controls gravity, ruling out conventional propulsion. Kemple suggests that a force field cancels gravity's effect, enabling incredible maneuvers and protection from air friction. He identifies three plausible methods for producing such a force field: "Magnetic Sink," "Cosmic Energy," and "Anti-matter."

The "Magnetic Sink"

This method, described by Wilbur B. Smith, involves a region where the Earth's neutrino flux flows into a controlled rate, creating a "Magnetic Sink." This process collapses the surrounding magnetic field, inducing an electrical current in the saucer's metallic disc. The interaction between this current and the magnetic field generates a force that supports and propels the saucer. The saucer's shape is considered functional for this system. The "Sink" also generates electrical energy, potentially serving as its own power source, explaining continuous operation. Accidents, such as sudden fluttering and explosion, are attributed to the wearing out of components in the "Sink" mechanism, suggesting that 'saucer operators' are fallible.

"Cosmic Energy"

Developed by French Army Lieutenant Plantier and detailed by Aime' Michel, this theory proposes that spaceships are powered by liberating "Cosmic Energy," believed to be distributed throughout space. This concept is supported by scientific confirmation of cosmic energy. Plantier's ideal vehicle design is a disc-shaped craft with a diameter ten times its thickness and a hemispherical cabin. The engine would liberate cosmic energy similarly to how Nature creates Primary Cosmic Rays, scattering high-energy rays into showers of low-energy rays. This process would generate a particle wave fluid moving at near-light speed for propulsion.

Anti-matter

The third method utilizes anti-matter as a "gravity shield." Anti-matter, discovered recently, consists of atoms with opposite charges to ordinary matter. Contact between anti-matter and ordinary matter results in an explosion more violent than an atomic bomb. The Siberian 'meteorite' of 1908 is suggested as a possible anti-matter event. "Saucer operators" might control anti-matter using powerful electromagnetic fields in a vacuum. While anti-matter could serve as an anti-gravity device, it does not produce a protective force field, which would need to be developed separately.

The article concludes by inviting readers to send their opinions on which method or combination of methods they believe propels the saucers.

"Spheres" Fall in Australia

This section reports on three strange metal spheres discovered on the Australian continent during 1963. The first sphere, found on April 8 in New South Wales, weighed 12 lbs and was 14 inches in diameter. Scientists were unable to open it. NICAP reported that the Australian Minister of Supply identified it as part of a space vehicle. A second sphere, weighing 18 lbs and 16 inches in diameter, fell on June 28, about 60 miles from the first. The third sphere, found on July 12 near Muloorina, South Australia, was six inches in diameter and had an opening. Both the United States and the USSR denied any connection to these spheres. AUFOC agrees with NICAP that a hoax is unlikely due to the technical work involved. The Australian government has remained silent on the contents of the opened spheres, and AUFOC is seeking further information from the Victorian Flying Saucer Research Society.

UFO Sightings Cause Electromagnetic Effects

Two sightings from June 1963 are presented as examples of UFOs causing electromagnetic effects. The first occurred in Richmond, California, where a glowing UFO moving slowly in the sky caused erratic radio and television interference. The second sighting took place in South Africa, where a woman and two adults observed a circular object with a dome on top. Although the object made no sound, the witnesses felt charged with electricity and semi-paralyzed. The article notes that while a satellite might explain the California sighting, it wouldn't account for the E-M interference, and the South Africa sighting remains unexplained.

Lunar Eruptions

This article details two instances in recent months where astronomers observed strange phenomena on the moon, appearing as eruptions from the lunar surface. The first observation on October 29 by Edward M. Barr and James C. Greenacre, using a 24-inch telescope at Lowell Observatory, revealed two bright red spots, described as "all light ruby red in color" and about two miles in diameter, near the crater Aristarchus. These spots were visible for only about 20 minutes. A subsequent observation on November 27 by Dr. John S. Hall and other observers identified a reddish area, approximately 12 miles long and 1-1/2 miles wide, inside the rim of Aristarchus. These observations, along with previous reports of lunar features like the "O'Niell Moon Bridge," suggest the moon is not a dead world. A diagram from TIME magazine illustrates the location of these "lunar eruptions."

The World of Flying Saucers: Two Reviews - Two Views

This section presents two reviews of the book "The World of Flying Saucers" by Dr. Donald H. Menzel and Mrs. Lyle G. Boyd. Louis Trifon reviews the book, stating that while it attempts to show flying saucers have natural causes, it fails to disprove anything. Trifon acknowledges Menzel's success in illustrating natural phenomena that can be mistaken for UFOs and is convinced Menzel's explanation for the Mantell case (a skyhook balloon) is plausible. However, Trifon remains unconvinced by Menzel's explanations for other sightings. Trifon criticizes Menzel's reliance on Air Force data, which he claims is often altered, and his tendency to ignore important details to fit his explanations. He also notes Menzel's sarcastic tone towards UFO 'believers,' including prominent figures like Vice Admiral R. H. Hillenkoetter and Rear Admiral Delmer Fahrney. Trifon identifies the book's basic fallacy as stating opinions as facts, citing Menzel's assertions that no UFO has originated from outside Earth and that extraterrestrial visitors have not arrived and may never arrive. Despite these criticisms, Trifon concedes the book offers valuable technical information on phenomena responsible for UFO sightings, such as meteors, inversions, and radar, and includes an interesting chapter on special effects.

Notes

This section provides administrative and membership information. Members' 1964 membership cards are enclosed. All members are invited to the Congress of Scientific UFOlogists in Cleveland, Ohio, during June. David Halperin has taken over the New Jersey Association of Aerial Phenomena and publishes a mimeographed publication. The American UFO Committee Review is published twice yearly by the American UFO Committee, a non-profit organization. Subscription is through membership ($2.00 per year). No material may be reprinted without consent. The editorial staff is listed as Allen Greenfield, Dale Rettig, and Rick Hilberg, with Wayne Marcaccini as the Canadian representative.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the preservation of ufology as a scientific discipline, countering what the editors perceive as a decline and a drift towards sensationalism. The editorial stance is one of "sensible open-mindedness" combined with rigorous scientific inquiry. The AUFOC actively seeks to debunk unsubstantiated claims, particularly those of 'contactees,' while simultaneously encouraging serious research and investigation into UFO phenomena. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between scientifically plausible explanations and speculative theories, and a call for a proactive approach to understanding UFOs rather than remaining on the defensive. The publication aims to provide high-quality content, both in format and substance, to its members and the broader UFO research community.

This issue of "Flying Saucers" (June 1963) includes a critical review of Dr. Donald H. Menzel's book, "The World of Flying Saucers," a detailed account of the investigation into the Ali Diaz UFO film from Venezuela, and several personal UFO sighting records.

Review of "The World of Flying Saucers"

The review begins by quoting Major Carl R. Hart, Project Blue Book Information Officer, who praises Dr. Menzel and Mrs. Boyd for contributing to the knowledge of unidentified aerial phenomena and for providing logical solutions to old cases. However, the reviewer, David Halperin, expresses disappointment with Menzel's second book. Halperin notes that Menzel's views have shifted significantly since his 1953 book, "Flying Saucers," where he often contradicted the Air Force. In the new book, Menzel's explanations are described as an attempt to make Air Force explanations palatable to the public and scientific community. The reviewer suggests that Menzel's contributions are primarily his extensive scientific background and literary style, used to "give artistic verisimilitude to an otherwise bald and unconvincing narrative."

Halperin criticizes Menzel's theories as "bald and unconvincing" and accuses him of distorting or suppressing pertinent facts. Examples cited include Menzel's explanation of the Levelland sighting as "ball lightning" and his inaccurate description of the Campinas incident. Menzel's reliance on Air Force files at Wright-Patterson is noted, with the reviewer suspecting these are often filecard summaries and inaccessible to the public, leading to potential distortion. Menzel's dismissal of the possibility of official censorship and his condescending attitude towards UFO groups like NICAP are also highlighted.

Despite these criticisms, the review acknowledges the positive aspect of Menzel's book: it serves as a valuable scientific handbook for identifying natural phenomena that can be mistaken for UFOs, helping to "remove the stars from the eyes of the over-eager observers and investigators." For this reason, it is recommended for serious UFO researchers as a scientific evaluation tool, though not as a solution to the UFO mystery.

"BRIGHT OBJECTS" SIGHTED IN WISCONSIN

This section reports on three separate sightings of "bright objects" in the sky near Rhinelander, Wisconsin. William Kussman reported seeing a bright object moving west on January 4th between 6:50 and 7:15 p.m. Vince Rosselli reported a bright object moving north to south on January 6th, which appeared to come to earth near Rhinelander. Mrs. Frank Bartz of Crandon reported sighting a bright red object traversing the sky on Christmas Day or around that time at 9:00 p.m.

THE KYW PHOTOGRAPH

This brief section discusses a photograph of a UFO mailed to radio station KYW in Cleveland, Ohio. Details about the photo are scarce, but it appears authentic. The accompanying note was unsigned and postmarked Orville, Ohio. Attempts to contact the sender have failed. The object is described as solid, but enlargements show little detail, typical of UFO photos. The photographer is believed to have taken the photo in haste, and the object appears to be over some kind of field.

THE ANGEL FALLS REPORT

This report, by Jose' A. Cecin, Chairman of the NICAP N. Y. Subcommittee, details a trip to Caracas, Venezuela, to investigate the Angel Falls UFO film. Cecin and his companion, Anthony Barben, arrived in Caracas amidst reports of Communist terrorist activities. They experienced intense humidity and observed numerous men in uniform with rifles. After clearing customs, they decided to rent a car instead of taking a taxi, a decision they later regretted due to the stressful driving conditions and encounters with aggressive local drivers and armed individuals.

Their journey involved navigating poorly marked roads and experiencing anxiety due to the tense security situation. They were nearly threatened by a National Guardsman protecting a government official's house. Upon reaching the Tamanaco hotel, they arranged to meet Dr. Askold Ladonko, NICAP Adviser in Caracas, to screen the Angel Falls UFO film.

The next day, after checking in the rental car and admiring the city's scenery, they visited Dr. Ladonko's home. There, they met Ali Rafael Diaz, the man who photographed the alleged UFO incident, and Horacio Gonzalez-Ganteaume, a UFO researcher and author. The group then proceeded to view the film.

The Ali Diaz Film

The film, shot in color with a Crown 8EZS 8 mm camera, began with scenes of the Diaz family and aerial views of the jungle near Auyantepuy mountain. The alleged UFO appeared on a second pass over the falls, described as a bright, yellowish light source, comparable to a small sun, with an indistinct outline. It rose almost vertically, accelerating and moving with an oscillating motion, disappearing into clouds in about 3.5 seconds. Its estimated vertical average velocity was about 718 m.p.h. The object appeared to be about as large as a grain of corn at arm's length. An enlargement of one frame showed two oval-shaped glowing bodies close together.

Cecin compared the film to the Utah and Montana UFO films, noting that the Angel Falls film showed motion more clearly, was taken from a closer distance, and showed more detail. He became convinced it was a significant UFO document. Gonzalez-Ganteaume stated that the film provides conclusive proof of the existence of UFOs and that their nature suggests they are not from this planet. Dr. Ladonko agreed, emphasizing the object's speed and dazzling light as evidence of non-conventional, possibly extraterrestrial, origin.

Interview with "El Universal"

Following the film screening, Cecin and Barben were interviewed by Mr. G. J. Schael, city editor of "El Universal." The interview, accompanied by Ali Diaz and Horacio Gonzalez-Ganteaume, focused on the film and NICAP's work. Schael published a story on June 16, 1963, titled "NORTHAMERICAN REPRESENTATIVES CONSIDER THAT THE SAUCERS SEEN IN VARIOUS LOCATIONS ARE FROM OTHER PLANETS." The article highlighted that Barben and Cecin were impressed by the photographic document and believed it to be authentic. They stated that NICAP was preparing an official report for the U.S. Congress on documented cases, aiming to lift the veil of Air Force secrecy and inform the public about the truth behind UFOs. The article also mentioned NICAP scientists' belief that UFOs might be interplanetary and that impartial studies prove they come from outer space. It noted that many surprising cases, including encounters between UFOs and military aircraft, have been recorded in the U.S. but not made public. The article also mentioned sightings in Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay.

Cecin corrected a few inaccuracies in the "El Universal" story, including NICAP's purpose and the belief that UFOs might be interplanetary. He also clarified details about a sighting in Oradell, N.J. Despite minor inaccuracies, the story was largely accurate.

The report concludes with Cecin and Barben's return to the U.S., feeling elated about their findings and the successful acquisition of the film.

MY RECORD OF UFO SIGHTINGS

This section contains personal accounts of UFO sightings by Allan J. Manak, President of the Cleveland UFOlogy Project.

June 18, 1953 - Libya, North Africa

While stationed at Wheelus Air Force Base, Manak and a friend observed a very small, stationary silver pin-point of light in the sky. They ruled out wind, aircraft, balloons, birds, and planets. Two officers identified it as a balloon, but Manak noted it was stationary while a balloon released nearby drifted north. After about five minutes, the object disappeared without moving.

October 12, 1954 - Ramstein Air Base, Germany

Manak and a friend observed a stationary object in the sky near Landstuhl Air Base. It was described as less metallic than the Tripoli UAO but plainly visible, larger than a pin head at arm's length. Two other people also witnessed it for several minutes before it disappeared.

May 14, 1955 - null

While on guard duty, a friend noticed a strange light that appeared like a searchlight on a cloud, despite a clear sky. Manak later showed him a photo that matched his description. The next night, Manak observed a similar object near the eastern runway, moving up and down. It was blue-green-white, the size of a pea at arm's length, and about 20 degrees above the eastern horizon. It suddenly went out. He was told by another airman that the control tower had been tracking the object on three different occasions that night, and similar objects had been seen for the past three nights. Reports from France about children talking to a man from another world, who arrived in a round, silver ship with a weird glow, were also mentioned.

July 5, 1961 - Brookpark, Ohio

Manak and a friend observed a strange light overhead that was different from a meteor or cloud light. It traveled north-west and was stationary relative to the wind. It was not a balloon, bird, or insect. The object was dull hazy white, almost luminous, and traveled from 90 degrees to 45 degrees in 30 seconds. It was shaped like a half-moon with a tail. Manak, a jet mechanic, confirmed it was not an aircraft or jet trail. His friend, initially skeptical of UFOs, became less so after this sighting.

October 24, 1963 - null

Manak observed a string of blue-white, very dull objects in a "J" formation in the sky, about 2 inches at arm's length. They were heading directly overhead and easterly. The sighting lasted about four to six seconds. As the string of lights passed stars, it appeared as if one object had a body, causing stars to disappear. Binoculars did not reveal anything different from the unaided eye.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the ongoing investigation and analysis of UFO phenomena. There is a clear skepticism towards explanations that dismiss UFOs as purely natural phenomena, particularly when presented by official sources like the Air Force, as seen in the critique of Dr. Menzel's book. The magazine champions the work of organizations like NICAP, which actively pursue evidence and scientific analysis to understand the origin and nature of UFOs. The editorial stance appears to be that UFOs are real, likely extraterrestrial in origin, and that official secrecy hinders public understanding. The inclusion of personal sighting reports alongside investigative articles suggests a commitment to documenting and exploring all facets of the UFO phenomenon, from official investigations to individual experiences.