FANTASTIC UNIVERSE

Magazine Overview

Title: FANTASTIC UNIVERSE SCIENCE FICTION
Issue: FEB.
Date: 1950-02
Publisher: KING SIZE PUBLICATION
Price: 35c

This issue of Fantastic Universe Science Fiction prominently features an article by Ivan T. Sanderson on the topic of flying saucers and ufology. The cover art depicts a classic flying saucer hovering over a futuristic cityscape, with the main headline announcing Ivan Sanderson's contribution.

Ivan T. Sanderson: An Introduction to Ufology

The lead article by Ivan T. Sanderson, a distinguished naturalist and author, delves into the question of what UFOs are. Sanderson begins by drawing parallels between UFOs and ghosts, noting that both are elusive and difficult to study scientifically. He introduces the concept of 'Forteana,' named after Charles Fort, to describe phenomena that are difficult to categorize within established scientific frameworks. These include spontaneous fires, unusual ice formations, and 'Objects seen Floating in the Sky' (OSFS).

Sanderson highlights that despite numerous reports from various sources, including ancient chroniclers, members of the Royal Society, and the US Airforce, these phenomena have been largely ignored by the scientific community. He attributes this to their elusiveness and lack of amenability to conventional scientific methods like measurement and weighing. He notes that while a significant portion of the population believes in UFOs, they are often dismissed as myth or treated as mere natural phenomena.

The article traces the historical interest in these phenomena, noting that even 'science' in the 18th century showed some interest, but eventually lost it due to the continued elusiveness of the objects. Sanderson points out that the advent of World War II and the fear of hostile bombers and radioactive clouds brought renewed attention to these unexplained aerial objects.

He credits Kenneth Arnold with bringing the topic to public attention by reporting his sighting of 'shining, lenticular-shaped items' over Mt. Rainier, which led to the widespread use of terms like 'Flying Saucer' and 'UFO.' This event spurred government investigations and increased media coverage.

Sanderson poses the critical question: are UFOs real, or are they a product of hallucination and imagination? He argues that if they are imaginary, it would require a drastic revision of historical texts, scientific journals, and the dismissal of many professionals. If they are real, then the existence of Unidentified Flying Objects in our skies is undeniable, and it is time for constructive action.

He addresses the difficulty of studying phenomena that cannot be easily examined or handled, comparing it to the study of neutrinos or Darwin's work on evolution. The core problem, according to Sanderson, is that UFOs have no assigned place within existing scientific disciplines. Meteorologists, astronomers, physicists, and technologists, each focused on their specific domains, tend to avoid or dismiss phenomena outside their purview.

Sanderson advocates for a scientific approach, emphasizing the need to record, investigate, and classify these phenomena. He suggests that while direct handling might be impossible, like with neutrinos, they can still be studied. He criticizes the current situation where scientists have largely shied away from the topic, often ridiculing it or attempting to explain it away. He calls for scientists and organizations to dedicate funds to a sane investigation and appraisal of the matter.

He proposes that the possibilities for UFOs are almost endless, considering the vastness of the universe and the potential for life based on elements other than hydrogen and carbon, or existing in extreme conditions. Sanderson suggests that a systematic approach is needed, starting with establishing a framework for classification. This involves creating 'pigeonholes' for data based on the potential nature, composition, and origin of UFOs.

Sanderson outlines a three-point plan:
1. List all possible explanations for reported UFOs, categorizing them by characteristics like 'living entities' vs. 'inanimate,' origin (terrestrial, solar system, galactic, etc.), composition, and control.
2. Card and cross-index all UFO reports, from anecdotal accounts to terrifying incidents, to create a comprehensive bibliographical record.
3. Whatever can be done to catch, keep, measure, and weigh these objects should be pursued, with the public encouraged to report sightings and, if possible, attempt capture.

He criticizes the current handling of UFO reports by the government and media, suggesting that thorough investigations should be conducted, and unexplained cases should be published. He also calls for the press to report news on these matters straightforwardly.

Sanderson concludes that UFOs are an 'unpleasantness of an advanced order' that have cost millions of dollars and caused undue excitement. He believes it is high time for serious minds to address the problem, potentially requiring extensions in fields like psychology, astronomy, meteorology, or biology. Ultimately, he calls for the immediate establishment of a respectable new science named 'Ufology.'

Other Content

The issue also includes articles and stories by Gray Barker, Harlan Ellison, and Richard Wilson, as well as a novelet titled 'Olcanero' by Robert E. Gilbert.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The central theme of this issue is the scientific investigation of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs). The editorial stance, as presented through Ivan Sanderson's article, is that UFOs are a legitimate area of study that has been neglected by mainstream science. The magazine advocates for a rigorous, systematic approach to understanding these phenomena, proposing the creation of a new scientific discipline, Ufology, to address them. There is a clear call for more research, data collection, and open reporting, moving beyond dismissal and ridicule towards a scientific appraisal.