APRO Bulletin - 1970 03 00 - March-April

Magazine Overview

This issue of The A.P.R.O. Bulletin, dated March-April 1970, is the official copyrighted publication of the Aerial Phenomena Research Organization Inc. (APRO). It covers a range of topics related to unidentified flying objects (UFOs), including recent sightings, scientific analysis, and statistical correlations with other phenomena.

Space News

Dr. J. Allen Hynek, former scientific advisor to Project Bluebook and Head of the Lindheimer Observatory, reported that personnel at the Corralitos Observatory in New Mexico were tracking and photographing Apollo 13 when an explosion occurred in its service module. The film collected from this event is being analyzed by NASA scientists to determine the cause of the failure. While APRO generally focuses on UFOs, this event was noted due to the potential for it to be connected to UFO phenomena, though initial evidence points to an internal cause within the service module.

Analysis of Conrad Space Photos

Dr. James Harder, Professor of Engineering at the University of California at Berkeley and an APRO consultant, analyzes information from the Condon Report. He focuses on a sighting made by Gemini 11 astronaut Conrad, who reported a 'wingman flying wing on us' during a sunset. Conrad photographed the object, and analysis of the photographs suggests a separation of lights corresponding to a significant physical dimension. While the Condon Report identified it as the Proton III satellite, Dr. Harder's analysis, considering the object's tumbling rate and the separation of its components, leads him to conclude that it should be re-classified as an unknown.

Object Over Scranton, Penna.

This section details an investigation by Field Investigator Hal Redner into a sighting by Sgt. Charles Reina and Patrolman Al Sames of the Scranton Police Department on March 21, 1970. The officers observed an unusual light with an orange glow that was initially stationary. The object moved and stopped, then moved again, appearing to be over the railroad tracks. It was described as having an apparent diameter of about one-fourth that of the full moon. The object then moved up and away, stopped, and later moved east. Reina reported that the object flashed a bright red and then receded out of sight. Subsequent reports indicated another similar object was seen flying from east to west.

Midwest Conference

Information is provided about the Midwest UFO Conference to be held at Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois, on June 13, 1970. Speakers include Dr. Allen Utke, Mrs. Lorenzen (Secretary of APRO), Dr. J. Allen Hynek, Mr. Ted Phillips Jr., Mr. Leonard W. Sturm, and Mr. John F. Schuessler. Topics range from the scientific evidence of UFOs to specific cases and potential connections with power failures and electromagnetic effects.

APRO Illinois Section Dissolved

On April 23, 1970, APRO's Board of Directors dissolved the Illinois Section, as Field Investigators were reporting directly to APRO Headquarters. This decision was influenced by the increased involvement of the former co-chairmen in other ventures.

New APRO Zip Code

The Post Office Department has assigned a new Zip Code for APRO offices: 85712.

Power Failures (PF's) Vs. Unidentified Flying Objects (UFO's)

This extensive article by Paul J. Smith, an APRO Field Investigator, presents a statistical analysis correlating power failures (PF's) in the USA with UFO sighting reports from 1954 to 1969. The study uses data from the Federal Power Commission (FPC) and UFO sighting reports, including those from Project Bluebook. The analysis reveals that the curves for PF's and UFO sightings track each other from year to year, showing a similar pattern of rising and falling, suggesting a potential connection or synchronicity between the two phenomena. The article includes detailed charts and graphs illustrating yearly, weekly, and geographic breakdowns of power failures and UFO sightings. It notes that while the FPC report lists causes as probable, further investigation is needed to refine the data. The author suggests that constructing a similar UFO sighting matrix and correlating it with PF data could yield more significant insights.

Hynek in Christian Science Monitor

An article by Dr. J. Allen Hynek, published in the Christian Science Monitor, discusses the challenges faced by UFO investigators. Hynek acknowledges that UFO reports often seem to violate known physics and presents three alternatives for explaining sightings: delusion, actual craft operating under unknown physical laws, or a phenomenon that creates the impression of a physical object. He emphasizes that physical scientists often reject the second alternative without considering historical precedents. Hynek also comments on the future of UFO research, noting that government agencies may not provide funding, but organizations like APRO and NICAP will continue to receive reports.

New Forms Needed

APRO is seeking donations to fund the production of a standard investigation procedure manual and a new Report Form for Field Investigators, as current budget constraints have delayed these essential materials.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the ongoing investigation and analysis of UFO phenomena. APRO maintains its commitment to understanding UFOs, as evidenced by its continued publication and the call for donations to support its research infrastructure. The editorial stance is one of scientific inquiry, encouraging detailed reporting and analysis, while acknowledging the complexities and potential skepticism surrounding the subject. The correlation study between power failures and UFO sightings highlights APRO's approach of seeking statistical patterns and potential connections within the data. The issue also underscores the importance of continued research and the role of dedicated individuals in advancing the field, even in the absence of official government support.