APRO Bulletin - 1970 07 00 - July-August

Magazine Overview

This issue of The A.P.R.O. Bulletin, dated July-August 1970, is published by the Aerial Phenomena Research Organization, Inc. (APRO) from Tucson, Arizona. The publication focuses on UFO research and investigations, featuring articles on specific sightings, scientific analyses, and organizational updates.

Key Articles and Features

Car Chase Incident in Florida

This lead article details a sighting by the R. family in Apopka, Florida, on June 29, 1970. The family observed a glowing green oval object with a blue inner ring that descended towards their car, paced it, and then performed a level sweep of the area, leaving a trail of mist. The witnesses, initially skeptical, were convinced by the experience. The object was estimated to be about 100 feet off the ground and approximately 20 feet in diameter. No sound was heard, and the mist dissipated after a few minutes.

APRO's New Findings On Ubatuba Magnesium

This section reports on the findings of APRO's investigation into Ubatuba magnesium fragments, which were initially studied by the Condon Committee. APRO consultants Dr. Walter W. Walker and Dr. Robert W. Johnson conducted structural, non-destructive analyses. Their findings concluded that the fragments were directionally solidified castings, a process not commonly studied at the time of the incident (1957). The report highlighted that the Ubatuba material possessed markedly better high temperature properties than terrestrial magnesium and suggested that this unconventional structure might be interpreted as an argument for extraterrestrial origin. The article also critiques the Condon Report's dismissal of the sample as not being part of a fabricated metal object.

Final Air Force UFO Catalog

APRO received a revised and final UFO report catalog from the United States Air Force, covering data up to the termination of Project Blue Book in 1969. The Air Force recorded a total of 12,618 UFO reports over 23 years, with 701 remaining unidentified. The peaks in unidentified reports were noted in 1952, 1957, and 1966. Lt. Colonel James H. Aikman of SAFOI reiterated the Air Force's stance that UFOs have not indicated a threat and that unidentified sightings do not represent technological advancements beyond present knowledge.

Limitations of Photon Thrust

This is the first in a series of articles by Dr. James Harder, APRO's Consultant in Engineering, addressing UFO propulsion theories. Dr. Harder explains the principles of photon momentum and calculates the immense energy rates required to produce even a small amount of thrust from photon emission. He concludes that, based on current understanding of quantum mechanics, a thrust mechanism based on photon emission cannot reasonably explain UFO propulsion or suspension, as the required energy output would be observed as heat.

APRO Plans Computer Catalog

APRO has formed a Committee for Computer Data Processing (CCDP) to study methods for computerizing its extensive collection of UFO reports (estimated at over 20,000). The committee, headed by Mr. Rayford R. Sanders, aims to create a system for efficient data retrieval. The project is in its initial stages, with a proposal to be submitted to a foundation in early 1971.

Incident in Illinois

A sighting by Mr. and Mrs. F. in Danvers, Illinois, on July 1, 1970, is reported. The couple observed a bright light approaching their house, which they described as large and yellowish-white, much brighter than a car headlight. The light appeared to be about 50 feet above the ground and moved slowly.

Official British UFO Statistics

APRO obtained official Ministry of Defence (MOD) UFO statistics for Great Britain from 1959 to 1969. The number of reports catalogued by the British Government increased by about 300% in the last three years. A total of 1,316 reports were received by MOD between 1959 and 1969, compared to 6,430 reports received by the US Defense Department in the same period. The MOD stated that there was no evidence that UFOs represent an air defense threat.

Multiple Witness Occupant Sighting in Brazil

This article details an unusual case involving three witnesses—Mr. Aristeo Machado, his wife, and Federal agent Aguiar—who observed an object land on the ocean near Rio de Janeiro on June 21. The object, described as having a transparent cupola with two small beings inside, later took off. The object reportedly emitted a bright rotating light and a yellow ball.

Finns Observe UFO Occupant

This report describes a sighting by two Finnish men, Aarno Heinonen and Esko Viljo, on January 7, 1970. They observed a luminous fog that lowered itself, revealing a round, shining grey metal craft with a flat bottom. A creature, about 90 cm tall, with slender limbs and a pale face, emerged from the craft. The creature was described as having claw-like fingers and a black box emitting a pulsating yellow light. The encounter resulted in physical discomfort for one of the witnesses.

Engine Interference in Denmark

A policeman, Ewald Mourup, reported that his patrol car's engine stopped and lights went out when a UFO apparently interfered with its function near Haderslev. He photographed the object, which was enveloped in a cone of light and became warm inside. The object then disappeared vertically.

APRO Members Sight UFOs

This section includes two reports from APRO members:

• Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Dains: On July 29, 1970, returning from a camping trip, they observed a bright object that followed their car. It appeared as a dark ovoid with a bright orange light in the center and seemed to dim and brighten, following their movements.
• Mr. Harvey B. Courtney: On August 7, 1970, in Stratford, Connecticut, Mr. Courtney and his daughter observed a cigar-shaped object that changed color from aluminum to brown to reddish-brown and disappeared quickly.

UFO Reported by Heyerdahl Crew

Thor Heyerdahl's craft, Ra 2, radioed a UFO sighting on June 12, 1970, described as a "bright orange flash" that disappeared after several minutes.

Children Sight Minute Creatures in Malaysia

Young boys in Bukit, Malaysia, reported seeing tiny creatures, described as "horned Martians," emerging from a "space ship." One boy claimed to have been injured by a "space blaster."

Book Review: Chariots of the Gods?

This review discusses Erich von Daniken's book, which posits that ancient myths of gods and fiery chariots were actually accounts of alien visitors in spaceships. The reviewer notes the book's exploration of similarities in ancient literature and archaeology, suggesting a reevaluation of our past in light of new knowledge about space.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the ongoing analysis of UFO evidence using scientific methods, the collection and organization of UFO reports, and the exploration of potential UFO propulsion mechanisms. APRO maintains a stance of scientific inquiry, seeking to understand UFO phenomena through rigorous investigation and analysis. The editorial section addresses common member concerns, such as Bulletin delivery issues and the possibility of advertising, while reaffirming APRO's commitment to its mission of informing members about UFO activity and research.