OMNI

Magazine Overview

Title: OMNI
Issue Date: July 1988
Type: Magazine Issue
Theme: Special Space Issue

This July 1988 issue of OMNI magazine is dedicated to space, featuring a variety of articles that explore different facets of humanity's relationship with the cosmos. The cover art depicts a striking image of a futuristic, skyscraper-like structure launching into space, symbolizing ambition and progress.

Key Articles and Features

The Space Race: Who's Ahead? Who's Last?

The issue delves into the competitive landscape of the space race, posing questions about the leading nations and those falling behind. This article likely examines the technological advancements, political motivations, and scientific achievements of various countries involved in space exploration during that era.

Castles in the Air: The Utter Poetry of Off-Earth Architecture

This feature explores the imaginative and artistic side of space habitation, focusing on the potential for architectural design beyond Earth. It likely discusses conceptual designs, the aesthetic possibilities, and the poetic inspiration behind creating structures in space or on other celestial bodies.

Space Entrepreneurs: A Capitalist's Guide to the Galaxy

This article examines the burgeoning field of commercial space ventures. It likely discusses the economic opportunities, the challenges, and the strategies for individuals and companies looking to profit from space exploration and resource utilization, painting a picture of a future where space is a marketplace.

Should We Go to Mars? Your Chance to Vote

Addressing the long-standing question of human colonization, this section invites readers to participate in a debate about the feasibility and desirability of sending humans to Mars. It likely presents arguments for and against the endeavor, encouraging reader engagement through a vote or poll.

Plus: Einstein's Editor Speaks Out

This intriguing addition suggests an article or interview related to Albert Einstein, possibly through the perspective of someone who worked with him or edited his work. It offers a glimpse into the mind of one of history's greatest scientific figures.

UFO Update and Related Publications

Competing UFO Magazines Emerge

The "UFO Update" section highlights the competitive landscape of UFO-related publications. It details the efforts of two distinct groups aiming to capture the market for UFO enthusiasts. On one side is "UFO Universe," spearheaded by Timothy Green Beckley, a figure known for his previous ventures in UFO publishing. Beckley, backed by Al Weiss, plans to launch "UFO Universe" with an ambitious initial print run of 100,000 copies, featuring articles on topics like alien abductions and potential extraterrestrial cures for diseases. He expresses confidence in his magazine's survival, citing public interest in UFOs, but acknowledges the high stakes involved.

On the other side are Vicki Cooper and Sherie Stark, co-editors and publishers of "UFO" (formerly "California UFO"). Their bi-monthly magazine, which started with a modest circulation of 4,000 copies in Los Angeles, has grown to 6,000 and is seeking wider distribution through mall bookstores. Cooper emphasizes their goal of increasing national exposure and fostering greater awareness of extraterrestrial life, while admitting their precarious financial situation.

Editorial Stances and Challenges

Both Beckley and Cooper/Stark face challenges in the competitive and often financially unstable world of niche magazine publishing. Beckley defends his editorial approach, describing himself as a "recording historian" who remains open-minded. Cooper and Stark view their publication as a means to advance public understanding of "our situation in space" and the potential for extraterrestrial contact.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of OMNI reflects a strong interest in the future of space exploration, from the grand scale of national space programs and potential Mars colonization to the more speculative realms of off-earth architecture and the commercialization of space. The inclusion of UFO-related content, particularly the discussion of new magazines entering the market, indicates a continued engagement with the unexplained and the possibility of extraterrestrial life. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to consider diverse perspectives on space, technology, and the unknown, while also acknowledging the practical and economic realities of publishing and exploration.