UFO Magazine - vol 4 number 4

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO Magazine
Issue: Volume 4 Number 4
Date: April, 1967

This issue of UFO Magazine focuses on UFO reports and physical evidence, alongside editorial notes and information on available publications.

UFO Reports Continue

The magazine begins with a section detailing recent UFO sightings. Dwight J. Aube reported an experience on March 27, describing an object the size of a full moon, predominantly green with pink traces. He also noted a second, smaller, disc-shaped object with a rotating light that moved slowly and silently. Two of his friends reported seeing a similar object with a light beam that night. Ronald Andrede also reported seeing a similar object on the preceding Friday.

An article from the CAPE CORAL BREEZE (Florida) on March 16 reported that Mrs. Edward Caldwell observed a "round-lighted object" for about half an hour on three consecutive clear nights. She described it as moving slowly, varying in brightness from bright orange to dim, and disappearing rapidly with a bright orange flame, resembling a jet on fire.

A report from Cordova, Maryland, details an incident on January 16 where a group of boy scouts on a hike sighted a UFO. Maryland State Police were contacted by scout leader Earl Asche. The object, initially white, changed to a brilliant orange and was observed for approximately three hours before disappearing. The article notes that the color orange was a common characteristic in these three reported sightings.

Editorial: Bits and Pieces

The editors apologize for the issue being several weeks late, attributing the delay to work on the 1967 annual issue, "SAUCER ALBUM." They encourage readers to order a copy. A UPI report is mentioned, quoting Soviet astronomer Felix Zigel, who believes UFOs come from Mars and are vehicles for research from other planets.

Editor Rick Hilberg's trip to New York for a Congress-inspired event is described as successful, with information gathered about the upcoming convention, including open sessions at the Commodore Hotel. Kenneth Arnold will not be a featured speaker, but the lineup is noted as impressive. Thanks are extended to Jin Moseley and Tim Beckley for their hospitality.

Bob Miller of Newark, Ohio, is mentioned as preparing to launch a new saucer magazine and invites interested readers to contact him for details. Staff member Karl Gawell is reorganizing "The Organization for Scientific Ufology Research" into a discussion and research body, seeking individuals with talent and initiative.

Physical Evidence: APRO's Magnesium Fragments

This article by Steve Erdmann critically examines the dismissal of physical evidence related to UFOs, specifically focusing on APRO's Ubatuba magnesium fragments. Erdmann argues that "rationalistic" UFO researchers exhibit personal bias by suggesting only normal explanations exist. He refutes claims of terra aircraft, hoaxes, or poor laboratory methods.

The article states that no agency has a record of aircraft or projectiles in the Ubatuba area at the time of the incident. It also notes that ASTM definition 4-0770, the standard for commercial Magnesium (Mg), classifies the fragments as unalloyed, pure Mg. Extensive checks with research labs indicate that unalloyed, high-purity Mg has no practical use in missiles or aircraft.

Furthermore, the article discusses spectrographic analysis capabilities, noting that the Hilger instrument can detect elements averaging 0.5% PPM. It points out that even the "purest" Mg from companies like Dow Chemical contains impurities, and that Mg becomes soft at relatively low temperatures, which could affect aircraft and missile technology. The author suggests that critics like Thomas Comella ignore metallurgical facts, possibly due to a belief that UFOs are psychically oriented. Comella's rationalizations are compared to those used for the Manhattan Atomic research and Oak Ridge research.

Two comments from industry experts are included: D.W. Grobecker from Hughes Aircraft Company states that there have been few advances in magnesium technology in the last ten years, and R.E. Herfert from Northrop Norair notes that magnesium of the type found would be highly susceptible to oxidation and its purity would change drastically, with no current aerospace applications.

The full report is mentioned as appearing in ComSep Magazine, Volume 1 issues 9-12.

Here They Are, Now What?

Robert W. Miller addresses the question of what to do with UFO information. He emphasizes remembering that UFOs are real objects seen for thousands of years, not just imagination. He advises that presenting proof or pictures is crucial to avoid ridicule. Miller, who has been in UFO research since 1960 and published a magazine, is preparing a new publication that will focus on facts rather than speculation.

He posits that humanity is focused on building civilization but neglects the possibility of advanced cultures observing Earth. He uses the analogy of building microscopes to see bacteria while failing to notice being watched. Miller concludes by urging preparedness, stating, "---they are here, now what?"

Sales and Subscriptions

The issue lists several items for sale by UFO Magazine, including "Interrupted Journey," "FS In The Bible," "Ufology: An Informal Survey," and "Saucer News June, 1966." Back issues of UFO Magazine from Fall 1964 through March 1967 are also available, along with the "SAUCER ALBUM, our 1967 annual issue" for $1.00.

Subscription information is provided: $2.00 yearly in the U.S. and Canada, and $3.00 elsewhere. CAPIC membership cards are enclosed for members.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently reports on UFO sightings and encourages readers to engage with the topic critically but openly. There's a clear interest in physical evidence, as demonstrated by the detailed analysis of the magnesium fragments. The editorial tone suggests a belief in the reality of UFO phenomena and the importance of continued research, while also cautioning against pure fantasy. The publication aims to present factual accounts and analysis, distinguishing itself from purely speculative content.