SPACE - No 02 - 1957 02

Magazine Overview

This issue of SPACE, a monthly publication from Coral Gables, Florida, edited and published by Norbert F. Gariety, is dated February 1957. The publication, subtitled 'Saucer Phenomena and Celestial Enigma', focuses on UFO sightings and related mysteries. The cover prominently features the word 'SPACE' with imagery suggestive of a rocket launch.

Statement of Policy

The publication outlines its policy on using names in reports, stating that while names are used whenever possible, they may be omitted if the individual's military position could cause issues due to regulations (like Air Force Regulation 200-2 or JANAP 146) or if revealing the name might deter future sources from providing information.

UFO Sightings and Investigations

Coco Beach and F-100 Encounter

A significant report details an event where witnesses, including an employee of North American Aviation at Cape Canaveral, observed two flying saucers or UFOs interacting with an F-100 jet at 25,000 feet. The objects reportedly moved at high speeds, with one appearing behind the jet and then making a rapid maneuver. The witness estimated the object's size to be about half a B-36 or slightly smaller, larger than an F-100, and described its color as bright, hot white, with exceptional maneuverability.

Mysterious Rocks from Erie, PA

The issue features an investigation into two unusual porous rocks found on a road near Erie, Pennsylvania. George Traut reported finding the rocks, which were "too hot to handle" for several hours. The rocks sparkled in sunlight. Samples were sent for analysis to the University of Cincinnati, M. K. Jessup, Dr. Virgil G. Sleight (Geologist at the University of Miami), and Dr. Raymond E. Parks (Radiologist at Jackson Memorial Hospital). Dr. Sleight concluded they were likely not meteorites (as they contained no nickel) and unlike any known rock, suggesting they might be slag, though more crystalline. Dr. Parks confirmed they emitted no detectable radiation. Dr. Russell Williams, an astronomer, also stated they were not part of a meteorite and likely not furnace slag. Further analysis by metallurgists at A. & G. Refining Company identified constituents like Chromium, Tungsten, Vanadium, Iron, and Copper.

Pittsburg and Coral Gables Sightings

Coinciding with the Erie rock discovery, Mrs. Florence Stauffer of Pittsburg reported seeing a "bright steel-gray ship" hover for over two hours. Another sighting in Coral Gables involved Robert Hicks and Pat Kruger observing a bright object, initially appearing as a meteor, descend rapidly, stop suddenly, and then move west at a moderate speed at an estimated height of 20,000 feet.

International Sightings

The publication includes reports from abroad: an unidentified flying object emitting green light and reddish flashes was seen along the Moroccan coast near Tetuan. In Copenhagen, mysterious phenomena resembling balls of fire or flying saucers were observed at high altitude and speed, with experts suggesting it might be related to Mars being close to Earth.

German Sighting

A soldier stationed in Western Germany reported seeing an unusual light in July 1956 that changed size and brilliance, approached at high speed, and emitted a rhythmic bell-like sound. The soldier attempted to load his carbine but the object disappeared before he could.

Las Vegas Sighting

Art Johnson of Las Vegas reported seeing a huge white ball descend from the sky and emit a powerful blast of colored exhaust, similar to an object seen by Bob Russell and his wife Sharon a few days prior.

Space Exploration and Military Projects

Papal Blessing for Space Conquest

Pope Pius XII, in September 1956, blessed mankind's efforts to conquer outer space, stating that exploring space brings humanity closer to the idea of one family under God and that God has no intention of limiting such efforts.

Congressional Interest in Space

Representative Karsten introduced a bill to create a joint congressional committee to study activities and problems related to extraterrestrial exploration and travel.

Air Force Suspended Animation Project

A recent article from THIS WEEK magazine is summarized, detailing an Air Force project studying ground squirrels ('Icicle Ike') in a state of artificial hibernation. The goal is to understand hibernation to potentially develop a new anesthetic and solve survival problems in the Arctic. The article highlights the potential benefits for space travel, suggesting that suspended animation could mitigate the effects of high gravity forces during launch and landing, making long journeys more feasible.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, the investigation into physical evidence (or lack thereof), and the burgeoning interest in space exploration. The editor, Norbert F. Gariety, actively engages with the subject matter, sharing his own observations and interpretations, as seen in his commentary on the mysterious rocks and his counter-arguments regarding divine intent for space travel. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unexplained phenomena, encouraging the sharing of information while acknowledging the challenges of verification and the potential for governmental or military sensitivities. The publication also shows a keen interest in the scientific and technological aspects of both UFO phenomena and human space endeavors.