Saucers vol 7 no 3-4

Magazine Overview

'SAUCERS' magazine, Volume VII, Numbers 3 & 4, published in Fall/Winter 1959/60, is a quarterly publication by Flying Saucers International, a non-profit organization based in Los Angeles, California. The issue is priced at 70¢ per copy and was copyrighted in 1960 by Max B. Miller, the editor. The cover prominently features frame enlargements from 16mm Kodachrome movie footage of a possible UFO filmed by Ray Stanford in Corpus Christi, Texas, on July 28, 1959. The accompanying text notes that the object appeared to rapidly change shape and had more luminosity than surrounding clouds.

Contents

The issue includes an "Editorial," an article titled "Instrumentation for UFO Detection" by Robert C. Beck, "The July 28 Movies" by Ray Stanford, "The Future of UFO Investigation" by Richard Hall, and a section called "Short Shots."

Editorial

The editorial, spanning pages 2 and 3, discusses the division within UFO research between "objective" and "subjective" camps, suggesting that rehashing old reports or exposing fraud is not the path to resolution. The writer expresses skepticism about future sightings being significantly better authenticated than existing records, noting that research has become strictly empirical and public acceptance is waning. The editorial proposes that the "next logical step" is to attempt contact or communication, advocating for a concerted, scientific, and orderly approach involving multiple responsible witnesses and photographic equipment, specifically 16mm motion picture cameras with telephoto lenses and Kodachrome film. It references an article by Robert C. Beck on instrumentation and mentions the work of Physicists Philip Morrison and Giuseppe Cocconi of Cornell University, who suggest attempting communication with alien intelligences by searching for signals. The editorial also announces the termination of 'SAUCERS' publication with this issue, citing monetary reasons and expressing gratitude to its readership. It provides a new permanent address for correspondence: 1420 S. Ridgeley Drive, Los Angeles 19, California. For those with active subscriptions, a plan is offered to receive back issues as compensation.

Instrumentation for UFO Detection by Robert C. Beck

This extensive article, running from page 5 to page 10, details various instruments and techniques for UFO detection and photography. Robert C. Beck, described as a highly innovative UFO investigator, outlines his approach, emphasizing the need for empirical evidence and dismissing mystical or pseudoscientific methods. He highlights that while 95% of strange aerial phenomena are not UFOs, the remaining 5% warrants significant effort to resolve. The article stresses the importance of instrumentation to aid perception and record events accurately.

Photographic Instrumentation

Beck discusses the limitations of amateur photography (e.g., box Brownies) and contrasts it with the complex equipment used by the Air Force. He then details his personal collection of photographic gear, including:

• Telephoto Lenses: Recommends the 400mm f/7.5 Tele-Astronar and the more expensive 400mm Tele-Megor f/5.5, noting that telephotos over 150mm focal length require single-lens reflex cameras.
• Rangefinder Cameras: Prefers Leica, Canon, and Nikon for normal, wide-angle, and close-up photography, suggesting having two bodies for convenience.
• High-Speed Films: Mentions Ansco Super Hypan (500 ASA), Agfa Isopan Record (1600 ASA), and Kodak Tri-X (400 ASA) for night photography.
• Remote Set-ups: Uses the Robot Star (D) with a radio-controlled solenoid for automatic surveillance.
• Twin-Lens Reflexes: Suggests Rolleiflex and Rolleicord (E) for field shots.
• Technical Shots: Employs the Exakta with a 40mm f/3.5 Makro Kilar "D" lens (F) for close-up work, often coupled with a Helland "Ring Light" (G) and Mecablitz strobe.
• Document Copying: Recommends the Leica with a Boowu close-up attachment (H) for microfilming.
• Stereo Photography: Advocates for the Stereo Realist or Revere cameras (I) for 3-D stereo color slides.
• Slide Copying: Describes using an Exakta with a Novaflex slide copying device (J) for field duplication of transparencies.
• Instant Photography: Mentions a Polaroid Land camera for on-the-spot "quickies" and exposure tests.

Exposure Meters

Beck discusses the Norwood incident light meter (K) as a general choice and the S.E.I. reflected light meter (L) for difficult situations, like reading the moon's surface, noting its high cost but utility.

Other Cameras and Lenses

He also carries a Bell & Howell 16mm Automaster (M) for movie footage and a Minox IIIs (N) with a built-in meter for everyday use.

Telescopes and Long-Range Observation

The article features several telescopes:

• Cave 6-inch f/7 Reflecting Telescope (A): Used with Exakta or Pentax for eyepiece projection, featuring orthoscopic oculars and achromatic Barlow lenses.
• Bushnell "Spacemaster" (B): A 60mm telescope capable of focal lengths up to 4800mm, suitable for visual observation or photographic work.
• Small Refracting Telescope (C) and Spotting Scopes (D): For terrestrial and sky surveillance.
• Questar Telescope (F): A 3.5-inch catadioptric telescope with an aspheric correction plate, designed for astrophotography with Exakta or Pentax cameras. It includes a clock drive and a battery-powered AC source for precise tracking.

Beck also discusses the utility of older folding roll film cameras (120/620 format) as inexpensive "glove compartment specials" for general photography due to their larger negative size and affordability.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's stance, as reflected in the editorial, is one of advocating for rigorous, scientific, and empirical investigation into UFO phenomena. It expresses a degree of pessimism about the current state of UFO research and public acceptance but encourages innovative approaches, particularly in the realm of instrumentation and potential communication. The editorial emphasizes evidence-based methods and dismisses less credible approaches. The termination of the publication suggests a challenging financial landscape for such specialized magazines.

This issue of SAUCERS magazine, dated Fall/Winter 1959/60, is dedicated to "INSTRUMENTATION FOR UFO DETECTION." It provides a comprehensive overview of the various scientific instruments and equipment that could be employed in the investigation of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs).

Optical Instrumentation

The article begins by detailing useful optical gadgets. For general observation, lightweight 7x35 wide-angle binoculars and smaller 6x15 or 10x20 binoculars are suggested. For detailed examination, a pocket field microscope and a pocket spectroscope are recommended. For night observation, especially for "invisible" objects, surplus infra-red "snooperscopes" are mentioned, acknowledging the possibility of objects radiating heat. An ultra-violet screen with a wide aperture mirror is also proposed for revealing shorter wavelength emissions.

Electronic Instrumentation

Several electronic devices are discussed for detecting UFO activity. A modified transistorized Geiger counter with a self-contained loudspeaker is used to monitor variations in background and artificial radiation, triggering scanning devices if the click rate increases. The pocket spectroscope is highlighted for its ability to analyze the line spectra of light sources, potentially revealing the chemical, gaseous, and electronic constituents of a light source, or the approximate color temperature. It can be used directly or with binoculars/telescopes.

Magnetic and radiation disturbances are noted as frequently accompanying UFO activity. A "saucer detector" previously described, consisting of a magnetic compass and a bell, is mentioned. A more sensitive version uses a damped compass needle and a vertical "dipping" needle to interrupt a light beam, activating a transistorized photocell relay. A portable black light unit, modified to emit both short (2537 Angstrom Units) and long (3660 A.U.) ultra-violet wavelengths, and equipped with a condenser discharge pulsing "strobolite" circuit, is also presented.

For detecting melted metal fragments, meteorites, or small "hardware," the Detectron Model 47, transistorized with a built-in speaker, is recommended for locating metal particles. Scintillation counters with one and six-inch crystals are noted as being almost too sensitive for current background radiation levels. Hensoldt and Leitz folding microscopes are also part of the auxiliary field kit.

FIGURE 4 illustrates electronic search and recording apparatus. Two battery-operated tape recorders, a Bell Cub briefcase-type and a pocket Mohawk Midgetape Chief, are mu-metal shielded to prevent motor interference. These can be fed by an extremely high-gain, low-noise transistorized amplifier and preamplifier. The pre-amp is a Fisher Hi-Fi unit, and the power amplifier is a Lafayette kit, providing over 150 db of gain. A self-contained speaker monitors the input. Matching transformers adapt the pre-amp to various input devices, including a vacuum-tube photocell unit for light-beam reception and a wide-band R.F. unit for scanning the radio spectrum.

Another input device is a directional coil assembly wound on a ferrite core for detecting audio or induction currents, capable of picking up slight magnetic fields and tapping telephones by induction from a distance. It can also detect atmospheric "whistlers." If a UFO uses magnetic induction propulsion, this device could "hear" it from many miles away, though it functions best at locations away from power lines.

An "infinite impedance" electrometer and demodulator, using a vacuum tube as a cathode follower, is described for detecting electrostatic disturbances. This can detect static charges on flying birds or shifts in electrostatic charge from overhead clouds, potentially recording them as miniature thunderstorms.

Other conventional input transducers include telephone pick-ups and wrist-watch microphones, used for sensitive interviews or investigating sightings. These "probes" are used at remote sites to scan for signals ranging from magnetic induction, audio, R.F., radiation, electrostatic, and light changes.

Communications Instrumentation

FIGURE 5 showcases communications instrumentation. Surplus B.C. 611-F "Handie-Talkies" are used with a base station for triangulation, while Vocaline citizens band units are used car-to-car. A National NC-88 all-wave fixed station receiver is used for "air watch." An FM receiver monitors aircraft communications bands, and a battery aircraft band AM receiver is also employed. A Regency multi-band transistor converter covers various ham bands, marine beacon, and aircraft bands. A Zenith Royal 760 Navigator is used to receive and record weather and "winds aloft" broadcasts. Broadcast and short-wave transistor sets are tuned to "watch" frequencies for the handie-talkies.

Field Facilities

THE EXTERIOR OF THE FIELD LAB, a custom-built DKW Caravan, is shown in Fig. 6. It sleeps three and is equipped with butane cooking and heating, water, air conditioning, and adequate living facilities. The Conset Commander base station is visible. The Caravan's front-wheel drive allows access to difficult spots. Despite being shorter than typical 1959 American passenger cars, it is efficiently laid out for comfortable living and extended "watches." It provides full headroom inside. Power is supplied by lifetime nickel-cadmium storage batteries (6, 12, and 24 volts DC) and 115v. AC from converters. The German DKW two-cycle engine provides highway mileage up to 30 mpg when fully loaded and is kept ready for immediate deployment.

Laboratory Facilities

FIXED LABORATORY FACILITIES include a complete photo darkroom with developing and enlarging equipment, and a complete electronics laboratory for constructing and testing special gear (Fig. 8). Limited chemical and biological testing facilities are also available. Figure 9 shows the author at the photomicography apparatus, which includes a Leitz Laborlux III stand with a trinocular photo tube, coupled to a Zeiss Photo head with a four-stage photoamplifying meter and a Robot camera. This is coupled to an automatic exposure compensating sub-stage strobe (electronic flash) of the author's own design. Objective turrets include Wild Flourite Phase Contrast, Zeiss Plan-Apochromatic objectives, and achromatic-aplanatic and phase sub-stage condensers. This setup can produce photomicrographs of living or stained subjects. A color camera is also shown. The strobe was designed to photograph living micro-organisms in color, regardless of movement, and to minimize vibration issues. An interesting sideline is the author's collection of blood samples from "contactees" and individuals claiming extraterrestrial birth, with preliminary tests showing them to be "quite human."

Hypothetical Investigation Scenario

The article outlines a hypothetical investigation scenario. A phone call reports a UFO over Griffith Park. The team grabs cameras, binoculars, spectroscopes, Geiger counters, and magnetometers. While en route, they tune into the Zenith Royal 760 Navigator to record weather and "winds aloft" data. Upon arrival, the Geiger counter shows a slightly above normal click rate, which is recorded. The sky is scanned with binoculars, infra-red snooperscope, and ultra-violet converter. The spectroscope is ready, and cameras are prepared. The high-gain audio amplifier, photocell, induction pick-up, and electrostatic probe are activated. A strange humming is detected by the magnetic detector and recorded. The Geiger counter's rate steadily increases, compasses are checked, and more clicks are recorded. A large light appears, its location, direction, and time are recorded. The UFO is identified as a photo-reconnaissance aircraft near Mt. Wilson. Negative results are recorded.

Key Principles and Findings

The article emphasizes that UFOs must leave evidence if they exist, and that they can be photographed and analyzed with spectroscopes. It references Ruppelt's findings that high radioactivity measurements correlate with UFO proximities, making the Geiger counter an essential tool for detection and measurement. The importance of carrying a compass to check for magnetic anomalies is also stressed. The article notes that in many cases, pilots reporting UFOs were too "thunderstruck" to even look at their compasses.

The July 28 Movies

This section, by Ray Stanford, details two possible UFO motion pictures. Stanford's 8mm and 16mm films were unprocessed at the time of writing. The 8mm footage reportedly lacks sufficient resolution, while the 16mm film is described as excellent, though the UFO sequence is very short. Simulation is deemed improbable as some scenes are identical in both films. Stanford refused to reveal the names of eight additional witnesses due to potential legal issues but stated that investigators would be welcome.

Numerous UFOs were reported in Corpus Christi, Texas, between July 27 and August 2, 1959. One exceptional daylight sighting involved nine witnesses (four formerly skeptics) and resulted in photographic records. The sighting occurred on July 28, 1959, at 2629 Lynch Street. A jet aircraft dove at one of four large, cylindrical-shaped craft. Don Chandler filmed the event with an 8mm camera (Type A Kodachrome, with improper conversion filter leading to over-exposure and color imbalance). The author recorded two scenes with a 16mm camera (Daylight Kodachrome) simultaneously.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the importance of scientific instrumentation and objective observation in the study of UFO phenomena. The magazine advocates for the use of a wide range of specialized equipment, from basic optical tools to sophisticated electronic and communication devices, to gather reliable data. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry, encouraging methodical investigation and the collection of evidence, while also acknowledging the potential for exaggeration and the need for objective observers to counteract it. The focus is on detection, measurement, and documentation as the primary means of understanding UFOs.

Title: SAUCERS
Issue: Fall/Winter 1959/60
Volume: VI
Date: Fall/Winter 1959/60 (estimated November 1, 1959)
Publisher: SAUCERS
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of SAUCERS magazine delves into significant UFO events and the broader landscape of UFO research.

The July 28 Movies

The lead article details a remarkable UFO sighting on July 28, which was captured by two movie cameras simultaneously. The presence of a jet aircraft during the sighting provided crucial reference points for estimating the UFO's size and altitude. The article describes how the jet altered its course in apparent response to the UFO's maneuvers. Witnesses observed the jet approaching the craft, which was estimated to be about five times the width of the jet's contrail, suggesting a length of up to 400 feet. The minimum altitude of the UFO was inferred to be below 30,000 feet, as jets do not leave contrails at lower altitudes.

Multiple large, cigar-shaped craft were observed, with a fourth appearing later. One object released a smaller, bright object that descended briefly before ascending rapidly at a 45-degree angle. Initially appearing blue-white and opaque, the craft then began to glow bright white before rapidly dissipating, possibly through ionization. The article includes frame enlargements from the 8mm and 16mm films, though the detail is limited.

The Future of UFO Investigation

This section features an article by Richard Hall, Secretary of NICAP (National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena). Hall addresses the challenges faced by NICAP, primarily a lack of adequate financial support, which affects its operational efficiency and publication schedule. He highlights the organization's efforts to gather factual information, correlate data, and publish findings, emphasizing that NICAP is the only full-time UFO organization.

Hall discusses the criticism NICAP receives, particularly regarding its stance on 'contactees' and claims of communication with spacemen. He clarifies that NICAP does not deny the possibility of extraterrestrial contact but requires proof or strong evidence, and has found evidence discrediting some contactee claims. The organization is attacked by those who know little about its operational challenges.

NICAP's approach involves attacking the UFO problem through legal and constitutional means, and independent investigation. Progress has been made in gaining support from Senators and Congressmen for the release of UFO information. The organization is also forming teams of technical investigators for on-the-spot investigations and collaborating with scientific organizations.

Hall stresses that NICAP aims to make UFO investigation respectable by focusing on factual information and encouraging intelligent citizens to participate. He concludes by stating that the future of UFO investigation depends on the support and active participation of those who sincerely desire to learn the truth.

Short Shots

This section contains several brief reports:

• Addendum to Stanford Report: Preliminary examination of movie frames from the July 28 incident suggests the UFO had an angular diameter between eight and 15 minutes of arc. Hypothetical estimates place its size between 87 and 145 feet at altitudes of 30,000 to 50,000 feet, with modified estimates suggesting larger sizes if the object was at a 45-degree angle.
• Security-Armed Forces Censorship: An Air Force Regulation from 1954 concerning censorship is highlighted as potentially overlooked by UFO investigators. It outlines conditions under which censorship can be established.
• Miscellany:
• Two Czechoslovakian meteor tracking stations photographed a fireball on April 7, 1959, with a calculated velocity of 46,440 mph.
• Yoshinari Baba confessed that his Kaizuka City UFO photos were faked.
• A review of Orfeo Angelucci's book, "Son of the Sun," describes it as a controversial account of an M.D. contacted by space beings.
• Information is provided about the Interplanetary Space Patrol (ISP), a ham radio network for UFO discussions.
• The resignation of Brinsley le Poer Trench as Editor of London's Flying Saucer Review is noted.
• The Rev. W. S. Mowery is seeking other ministers interested in the UFO problem.
• Marjorie Hazen has a tape recording of "Flying Saucers-Fact or Fiction?" for the blind.
• A report on the Gabriel Green/AFSCA convention is mentioned as appearing in FATE magazine.
• Project Ozma: The National Radio Astronomy Observatory has begun intercepting artificial signals from planets outside the solar system. Led by astronomer Frank Drake, the project aims to find extraterrestrial radio transmissions. Initial attempts will focus on frequencies near the 21-cm hydrogen band, with the goal of detecting signals from stars up to 100 light years away.
• TIME Magazine Report: A report by Physicists Philip Morrison and Giuseppe Cocconi suggests that alien intelligences might have established a communication channel and are awaiting signals from the sun. They propose searching a wide radio band for signals that could be identified as artificial, such as sequences of prime numbers or simple arithmetic sums.
• Otis T. Carr Conviction: Otis T. Carr, an alleged inventor of a "flying saucer" (OTC X-1), was convicted for selling unregistered securities, resulting in a $5,000 fine.
• Book Clearance Sale: Information is provided about available back issues of SAUCERS and other UFO-related books at discounted prices.
• Subscription Information: A list of organizations and periodicals for subscribers to consider is included, along with details about purchasing back issues of SAUCERS.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO sightings, photographic evidence, and the scientific and governmental aspects of UFO investigation. There is a strong emphasis on factual reporting and critical analysis, particularly in the articles concerning NICAP and the analysis of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance supports rigorous investigation and discourages unsubstantiated claims, while acknowledging the importance of public awareness and scientific inquiry into the UFO mystery. The inclusion of 'Short Shots' indicates a broad interest in various UFO-related news, from alleged inventions and legal cases to scientific projects like Project Ozma and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence.