1979 08 00 OMNI - Oberg - UFO Update

Magazine Overview

OMNI, August 1979 issue, priced at $2.00, is a science and speculative fiction magazine featuring articles on UFOs, space travel, and scientific inquiry. The cover art depicts a human silhouette filled with a natural landscape, symbolizing a connection between humanity and the cosmos. Prominent cover headlines highlight contributions from Robert A. Heinlein and Carl Sagan.

UFO Over Iran by James Oberg

This article investigates the widely publicized UFO incident that occurred over Tehran, Iran, on the night of September 19, 1976. An Iranian Air Force F-4 jet was scrambled to intercept a bright light in the sky, which was later described as a UFO. The incident spawned claims of a cover-up by the United States and was hailed by some UFO experts as the "most scientifically valuable" UFO case of 1976. The article critically examines the evidence, pointing out that the initial investigation relied heavily on a summary prepared by a U.S. Air Force officer and news clippings, rather than thorough research.

During the encounter, the F-4 pilot, Lieutenant Jafari, reported that the UFO appeared to recede as he approached. He then claimed the UFO "attacked" the jet, causing his weapons-control panel to malfunction and his communications to go black. A second F-4 was launched, also experiencing similar issues. The article notes that explanations for these events are often weak, especially when contrasted with the pilots' reported terror.

Oberg highlights the skepticism surrounding the case, particularly from aviation journalist Philip J. Klass, who has a history of debunking UFO claims. Klass reportedly uncovered details suggesting that the electronic malfunctions might have natural or technical explanations unrelated to the UFO itself. For instance, experts suggested the weapons panel issue was unrelated to the Sidewinder missile system, and that the Iranian Air Force did not request a thorough technical checkout.

The article also touches upon other reported sightings that night, including fireballs seen over Morocco and the Atlantic Ocean, which some interpret as evidence of the UFO's high speed, while skeptics suggest it points to a meteor shower.

Due to recent political events in Iran, further investigation has been hampered. Oberg concludes that the case, despite its endorsement by some UFO groups, has not been thoroughly investigated and should not be presented as definitive proof of UFOs without more rigorous research.

Robert A. Heinlein: Reflections on Love, Religion, Space Travel, and Human Potential

This section features an article by the renowned science fiction author Robert A. Heinlein, exploring his thoughts on fundamental aspects of human existence and the future. While the full content is not detailed in the provided text, the headline indicates a philosophical and forward-looking piece.

Carl Sagan: White Dwarfs, Little Green Men, and Tales of the Ancient Astronauts

Another significant contribution comes from astronomer Carl Sagan, who delves into topics ranging from the nature of white dwarf stars to the concept of extraterrestrial life ('little green men') and the theories surrounding ancient astronauts. This article likely examines scientific perspectives on cosmology and the possibility of alien intelligence and its historical influence.

Plus: Silicon Valley, Jaws 2000, UFO's Over Iran, The Little Space Probe That Could

This section appears to be a collection of shorter pieces or highlights. "Silicon Valley" likely discusses the burgeoning tech industry. "Jaws 2000" might be a fictional story or a commentary on a sequel to the popular film. "UFO's Over Iran" refers to the main article by James Oberg. "The Little Space Probe That Could" suggests a piece about a specific space mission or technological achievement.

Weekend Astronauts: The Slowest, Cheapest, and Most Beautiful Way to Fly

This article likely explores alternative or more accessible forms of space travel, perhaps focusing on amateur rocketry, high-altitude ballooning, or other methods that could be considered "weekend" activities for aspiring astronauts, emphasizing affordability and aesthetic appeal.

Continuum: UFO Tips and Low-Cal Sex

UFO Tips

This segment offers practical advice for individuals who witness UFOs. It states that nine percent of adult Americans have seen a UFO, estimating around 13 million sightings. The tips focus on how to make a UFO report more valuable to researchers. Key advice includes noting the precise time and duration, estimating the object's size using degrees (comparing to the moon, thumb, or fist), describing its position and altitude, noting specific details like shape and color changes, and importantly, getting multiple witnesses to corroborate observations.

It also suggests reporting baffling sightings to major private UFO research groups like the Center for UFO Studies, Aerial Phenomena Research Organization, and Mutual UFO Network, rather than government agencies, which are perceived as less likely to act on such reports. The section is attributed to Terrence Dickinson.

Low-Cal Sex

This article humorously addresses the caloric expenditure during sexual activity. It cites research from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, which found that sex burns calories at a rate of about 4.5 calories per minute (270 calories per hour). The findings suggest that sexual activity is less stressful on the heart than many jobs and that, while it does burn calories, it is not an efficient method for weight loss. It would take approximately 13 hours of sex to lose one pound, compared to 7.5 hours for a tennis player. The article concludes that sex is about as strenuous as walking up a flight or two of stairs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects OMNI's commitment to exploring the frontiers of science, technology, and the unexplained. There's a clear interest in UFO phenomena, presented with a critical eye through James Oberg's investigative approach, contrasting with the more sensationalist claims often associated with UFO reporting. The inclusion of articles by prominent figures like Heinlein and Sagan underscores the magazine's focus on serious scientific and speculative thought. The editorial stance appears to be one that encourages curiosity and exploration while maintaining a grounded, evidence-based perspective, particularly evident in the critical analysis of the Iranian UFO case and the practical advice offered in the "UFO Tips" section.