APRO Bulletin - 1958 09 00 - September

Magazine Overview

This issue of The A.P.R.O. Bulletin, dated September 1958, is published by the Aerial Phenomena Research Organization (APRO) and is dedicated to the investigation of unidentified aerial objects (UAOs). The publication aims to gather information, analyze evidence, and contribute to solving the mystery of these phenomena.

"Landing" in Ohio

This article details a sighting by Mr. and Mrs. William H. Fitzgerald of Sheffield Lake, Ohio, on September 21st. Mrs. Fitzgerald reported seeing a brilliant red, disc-shaped object, approximately 8 feet in diameter and 3 feet thick, hovering close to the ground over their driveway. The object emitted a puff of "pinkish-grayish-purplish smoke," moved across the lawn, and then performed two short, circular maneuvers before disappearing. Her step-son also saw the object, and a neighbor reported hearing a whistling sound. Captain Charles H. Reinecke, an administrative assistant for the Ohio attorney general's office, investigated the report and examined the family car and the area for physical proof. Mrs. Jack P. Stewart of Lorain, Ohio, also reported seeing a similar object.

The Rio Story

This section provides additional details about an incident reported to the Brazilian Air Force (AF) in December 1954. An AF Intelligence officer requested the original negative of a photograph taken by F. C., a photographer. AF photographic experts studied the image using various methods, concluding it was genuine and not a falsification or photographic trick. The AF kept the photo, and it was not released to the public or press until it appeared in the July 1958 APRO Bulletin. The article discusses the analysis of a duplicate positive transparency and enlargements of the photograph, noting the object's sharp, dense image with a distinct outline. The object appears to be illuminated by an outside source, possibly street lights. The analysis reveals details such as an outer rim, a thin dark line, a convex central part, and three small protuberances, possibly related to landing gear. The object's shape is described as "egg-shaped," and it was suggested to be identical to two similar UAOs sighted over Gravatai AFB. Colonel Adil de Oliveira, former chief of AF's UAO investigation, considered the photograph highly impressive, and Major Magalhaes Motta suggested it was a "recognized" egg-shaped object. The article notes the absence of a strange light or eerie glow, which is often reported with night sightings of UAOs.

Southwest Host to Small "Flap"

This article reports on a series of UFO sightings in the Southwestern United States during the early weeks of August 1958, following a period of relative quiet. The first report was from Durango, Colorado, where a round, silver ball-shaped object was seen roaring like a jet at an estimated altitude of 35,000 to 40,000 feet. Mrs. Elton Highland, an aircraft observer, reported the object moving on a straight course. On August 7th, Associated Press reported a sonic boom accompanied by unidentified sky objects observed in the Salt Lake City area. Individuals reported seeing huge, black objects, and odd "balloons" approximately four feet long, tied together and separated by paper, were also observed. These balloons allegedly leaked an odd-smelling gas and were reportedly picked up by AF officials. On August 8th, a staff sergeant from Holloman Air Force Missile Development Center reported observing a box-shaped formation of disc-shaped objects flying low over Alamogordo. The objects were described as luminescent and giving off their own light, with an oval shape and no sound or contrails. The sergeant noted they were at a low altitude, with their lights reflected on pearly-colored surfaces. On August 9th, Radio Station KALG received a report of a cluster of lighted objects over town that split into two groups and ascended. On August 12th, Mr. Thorne Haas and his family observed an oval-shaped object with a "mottled surface" traveling with a dipping motion, reflecting street lights, and making a sound like "rushing wind." Mr. Haas, an electronics engineer, was formerly a UFO "skeptic."

Photographic Analysis of The "Fortune" Photo

This report by John T. Hopf analyzes a photograph taken on October 16, 1957, near the Holloman North Test Range. The author, a photographic consultant, examined the original slide and enlarged copies. He compliments Miss Ella Louise Fortune on her technique in taking the photograph, describing the object as a brilliant white with a distinct form against a dark blue sky. The thin bluish-white trail from the object did not reproduce well in black and white copies. Hopf confirms the photograph's authenticity and states the object was at a great distance. He discusses the exposure settings and the "third-dimensional" effect seen when the slide is projected, attributed to high contrast. He notes that the object reflected or produced twice as much light as other clouds in the picture, suggesting it was not an ordinary cloud. The enlargement is about 50 diameters, making the entire picture six feet wide. While acknowledging potential blurring due to atmospheric conditions, Hopf believes a solid object would have produced a sharper outline. He concludes that the object is not a solid one but an unusual phenomenon that warrants attention from a qualified aerologist. The article also mentions that Miss Fortune triangulated the object's position, indicating it was considerably closer than the mountains.

APRO's Answer to "Saucer News"

This section addresses a comment by James W. Moseley, publisher of "Saucer News," who claimed APRO had obtained physical proof of flying saucers coming from another planet and suggested it was a publicity stunt due to APRO's need for funds. L. J. Lorenzen clarifies APRO's statement, emphasizing that they claimed an "indication" of physical evidence for "a portion of UFO reports," not definitive proof. He distinguishes between "extraterrestrial" and "another planet." Lorenzen also addresses APRO's needs, stating they have recently expanded their local staff and can handle additional members.

Dr. Jung's Position Clarified

This article by L. J. Lorenzen aims to clarify the position of psychologist Carl Jung regarding UFOs, following misinterpretations in the press and a previous APRO Bulletin article. Lorenzen explains that an article reprinted from "Flying Saucer Review" was a somewhat wishfully translated and shortened version of Jung's 1954 interview for "Der Weltwoche." Jung's original statement indicated he had not yet ascertained the empirical foundation to draw conclusions about the nature of UAOs. Jung expressed that the press incorrectly spread the news that he believed UFOs were real physical realities, stating that neither psychical manifestations nor physical realities fully express his opinion. He released a statement to UPI on August 12, 1958, clarifying that he deals only with the psychic aspect of the appearance due to available material and that his position is "Something is seen, but it isn't known what," leaving open the possibility of either a material or psychic reality. Jung's relationship with APRO was limited to providing his book to inform them and consenting to be an honorary member. He considered the erroneous information published by APRO a "regrettable accident." The article also addresses Jung's request to not be listed as providing psychological advice, as it appeared to be for advertising purposes. It highlights the wide attention Jung's new book, "Ein Moderner Mythus," is expected to receive and recommends it for understanding the motivations behind UFO cult movements. The article notes that Mrs. Paul Small read the book for them locally. The section concludes by recommending the book and mentioning its availability in German, with an English translation planned.

Space Exploration

This article by B. V. Wilson discusses the future of space exploration, focusing on travel to the moon and Mars. It outlines the envisioned stages: first, getting a space vehicle to orbit or hit the moon's surface to study its composition, unseen side, and atmosphere. Then, visiting Mars to investigate potential life, canals, atmosphere, and civilization. The process involves intricate problems in astronautics, including launching larger "Explorer" vehicles, using television eyes for scanning, and eventually sending manned missions. The article suggests that Mars might be used as a base for earth operations. For Mars exploration, scientists plan to orbit the planet first to determine its atmosphere and surface conditions, possibly using one of Mars' moons as a base. Unmanned reconnaissance vehicles would then scan the surface, and if inhabitants are friendly, manned landings would be attempted using robots or humans in space suits. Wilson draws a parallel between these planned explorations and the activities of "space visitors" who have been observed for over a hundred years. He notes that early visits were likely safe due to a lack of defense systems. Later visits, after the atomic bomb, involved "flying saucers" operating within the atmosphere. Wilson believes these were launched from orbiting space ships and used for reconnaissance, similar to a ship anchoring off shore to send out small boats. He suggests that these visitors would not risk their main ships close to Earth until it was established that they would not be attacked. He notes that recently, smaller egg-shaped ships have been reported, behaving differently from rotating discs, possibly using different propulsion. Wilson points out that the space visitors are doing what our scientists are talking about doing to Mars, but in practice. He describes how they started high up, then penetrated the atmosphere with unmanned saucers, then risked single saucers at low altitudes, and finally, reports of creatures or robots gathering samples. He concludes by questioning why the Air Force doubts the existence of visitors given the overwhelming evidence from pilots, radar, and scientists, and urges the public to accept the fact that we have such visitors.

Editorial

This editorial discusses the expected increase in UAO sightings starting around September 15th, based on past trends. APRO is introducing a new sighting report form on page 8 to facilitate efficient tabulation and evaluation. Members are encouraged to investigate sightings and use the form, attaching additional information on separate pages. Duplicate forms should be made on 8x10 paper. The editorial notes that in the past, APRO has relied heavily on newspaper accounts but now seeks more accurate information. They believe members can more easily complete and duplicate forms themselves. Members are also encouraged to approach local newspaper editors to request mentions of APRO and its functions, using the Bulletin as an introduction to encourage citizen reports.

The editorial also addresses the "Jung fiasco," referencing TIME magazine's errors in an August 3rd edition concerning Dr. Jung's views. It explains that TIME reporter Jonathan Leonard allegedly took advantage of the Lorenzen's absence to insinuate the ridiculous into his article. The editorial defends Dr. Jung's integrity and states that misinterpreting or misrepresenting his opinions would be dishonest. It quotes Dr. Jung's appreciation for APRO's critical attitude and common sense, and his statement that he is "no more advanced than at the beginning: I still do not know what these Flying Saucers are," qualifying the article as speculation. The editorial highlights the "tragic" nature of misinterpreting a man's opinion and emphasizes the importance of APRO recognizing the need for psychological insights into the UFO phenomenon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue consistently emphasizes the scientific investigation of UFOs, the importance of accurate reporting and analysis, and the need for public awareness. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry, seeking empirical evidence, and challenging official secrecy or dismissal of the phenomenon. There is a strong focus on the physical reality of UAOs, while also acknowledging the psychological aspects, as highlighted by the discussion of Carl Jung's work. The publication aims to educate its members and the public, encouraging active participation in research through detailed reporting. The theme of space exploration serves as a comparative framework, suggesting that human aspirations mirror the actions of presumed extraterrestrial visitors.