1978 10 00 OMNI - Oberg - UFO Update

Magazine Overview

Title: OMNI
Issue Date: October 1978
Type: Collector's Edition Magazine

This issue of OMNI magazine, dated October 1978, presents itself as a collector's edition, offering a diverse range of content spanning science fiction, exclusive interviews, and in-depth explorations of UFO phenomena. The cover prominently features the OMNI logo and highlights key sections including fiction by renowned authors, an interview with Freeman Dyson, an update on the UFO science conflict, an article on aging, and a photographic portfolio titled 'Microworlds.'

Fiction

The magazine features a strong lineup of science fiction stories from established authors:

• Isaac Asimov
• Theodore Sturgeon
• Ron Goulart
• James B. Hall

Exclusive: OMNI Interview with Freeman Dyson

This section offers an exclusive interview with Freeman Dyson, a prominent physicist and mathematician, likely delving into his scientific perspectives and perhaps his views on the future or speculative science.

U.F.O. Update: The Science Conflict

This is a major feature exploring the ongoing tension between the scientific establishment and UFO enthusiasts. James Oberg, the author, outlines the historical divide, where scientists often dismiss UFO data as fanciful fiction, while enthusiasts see themselves as prophets of a new scientific revolution. The article notes a shift in the scientific community, with a 1977 New York Times report indicating that a majority of trained astronomical observers favored further investigation of UFOs. However, a closer analysis of the survey revealed that only a small fraction of astronomers considered UFOs important enough for personal attention.

The piece highlights the emergence of a more scientific approach among UFO groups, with programs designed to gather empirical evidence. It mentions efforts like the 'Project Starlight International' team, which has assembled sophisticated equipment including cameras, radar, and spectrometers to detect physical effects associated with UFOs. Despite these efforts, the project has yet to yield substantive results after nearly three years of operation.

The article also discusses the challenges of verifying UFO evidence, particularly photographs, noting that many are hoaxes. Experts like Dr. Bruce Maccabee and Robert Sheaffer are mentioned for their photoanalysis techniques, which have yielded conflicting conclusions on famous cases like the McMinnville photo. The role of computer scientists in analyzing data is also discussed, with the caveat that 'garbage in, garbage out' applies if input data is not carefully controlled.

Despite the scientific rigor applied, a fraction of cases remain unsolved, which fuels enthusiasts' hopes. Skeptics, however, attribute these to inherent limitations in human perception and memory.

The article touches upon the government's stance, referencing President Carter's promise to release UFO data and the subsequent declassification of Air Force 'Blue Book' files. It notes that NASA declined to reopen investigations but offered its laboratories for analysis of physical evidence, though none has been officially submitted.

Finally, the piece debunks claims of astronauts encountering UFOs, tracing such stories to misunderstandings or fabrications, and asserts that no extraordinary encounters have been officially recorded by American or Soviet spacemen.

Aging: Some of Us May Never Die

This article explores the topic of aging, suggesting that advancements or discoveries might lead to significantly extended lifespans, perhaps even a form of immortality.

Microworlds: A Roman Vishniac Portfolio

This section features a photographic portfolio by Roman Vishniac, likely showcasing his renowned work in capturing microscopic worlds or intimate portraits.

Communications Section

The 'Communications' section includes letters from readers and responses:

• Jerry Edelman from Gretna, LA, expresses enthusiasm for OMNI and requests articles on a wide array of future-oriented topics, from language and special effects to parapsychology and space colonization.
• Allen Curry from Cincinnati, OH, humorously compares OMNI's arrival to a lifeline for 'Nobel Prize people,' predicting a harmonious collaboration similar to past experiences with 'Saturday Review' and 'Science Digest.'
• Melinda Moore from New York, NY, describes seeing 'infinitely delicate flying objects' on New York City rooftops for ten years, which she calls 'miniature UFOs.' These objects have unique shapes, can land vertically like helicopters, and are generally small with bright colors. She also mentions finding small triangular imprints on buildings.
• Richard Golob, Director of The Center for Short-Lived Phenomena in Cambridge, MA, congratulates OMNI, calling it a much-needed phenomenon.
• Lyall Watson from Oxford, England, expresses anticipation for the first issue and wishes OMNI good luck.
• J. Michael Levesque of Vulcan Solar Industries in Pawtucket, RI, offers assistance with articles on solar energy.
• T.W. Thompson, General Director of the Metropolitan Toronto Zoo, expresses delight that the zoo would be a model for the future and offers cooperation.
• T.W. Thompson (likely the same individual) also seeks individuals with highly efficient molecular repair processes who are resistant to sunlight, cancer, and aging.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The editorial stance of OMNI, as evidenced by this issue, is one that embraces speculative science, science fiction, and the exploration of unexplained phenomena with a degree of scientific inquiry. The magazine aims to be a platform for cutting-edge ideas, interviews with leading thinkers, and detailed investigations into topics like UFOs, which are treated with a seriousness that bridges the gap between fringe belief and scientific investigation. The inclusion of diverse content, from fiction to scientific updates and photographic essays, suggests an editorial philosophy that values intellectual curiosity and a forward-looking perspective on science, technology, and the human condition. The 'Collector's Edition' designation and the breadth of topics indicate a desire to establish OMNI as a significant publication in the realm of speculative and scientific journalism.