UFO Magazine - vol 4 number 9

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO MAGAZINE
Issue: Volume 4, Number 9
Date: Spring 1968
Publisher: UFO Magazine Publications
Country: USA
Price: $2.00 (U.S. and Canada), $3.00 (overseas) per year.

This issue of UFO Magazine focuses on the scientific and observational aspects of UFO phenomena, with a cover illustration detailing the Van Allen Radiation Belts and their interaction with solar winds and UFOs. The magazine also announces a new publication, UFO Magazine's News Bulletin, and promotes upcoming books and events related to ufology.

Articles and Features

Magnetic Space Coupes

This article, by Edward M. Biebel, explores the theory that flying saucers are propelled by cutting magnetic lines of force. It references Frank Scully's book "Behind the Flying Saucers" and Major Donald Keyhoe's assertion that UFO drives are electromagnetic. Dr. James Van Allen's discovery of the two radiation belts bearing his name is discussed, noting the high voltage (50,000 volts) generated across Earth's magnetic field. The article explains how the Earth's magnetic field is comet-shaped due to the solar wind, with lines of force extending significantly on the side away from the sun. Friction along the magnetic field creates positive and negative charges, attracting electrons and protons respectively. The author speculates that if a craft could harness these cut lines of force, it could provide enough energy for propulsion, potentially explaining why more UFOs are seen in the northern hemisphere, where advanced nations are likely researching the phenomenon. The article concludes that while this is speculative, it offers a possible explanation for UFO propulsion if they are interplanetary spacecraft.

Police Sighting in Columbus, Ohio

Written by Rick and Janie Hilberg, this report details an investigation into an incident that occurred on January 23, 1968, in Columbus, Ohio. Two Franklin County Deputy Sheriffs, Thomas Barker and Edward Durbin, reported seeing mysterious lights in the sky around 8:00 PM. The lights were described as brighter than runway lights and appeared to float, with one object moving rapidly over another. One object then departed southeast rapidly, while the second object either left at a faster speed or "turned off" its light source. The deputies reported no sound, and estimated the altitude to be between one to three thousand feet. The Columbus Dispatch reported the incident but, according to the article, distorted the deputies' description, making the objects appear as solid rather than blurred circles. An "artist's conception" of one of the objects, deemed "horribly distorted," is reproduced from the "Saucer Album" section.

Saucer Album

This section includes a "distorted artist's conception" of the Columbus, Ohio UFO sighting and a brief item titled "Mystery Monster." The "Mystery Monster" describes a creature seen near Eureka, California, by Roger Patterson, estimated to be 7.5 feet tall, and mentions films he has exhibited that met with skepticism.

Around and About the Saucer World

In this editorial, Rick Hilberg, identified as a "Ufological Iconoclast," expresses concern about the potential "collapse" of the saucer movement. He argues that despite increased public interest and media coverage, apathy and the desire for personal gain among ufologists could lead to a decline. He draws a parallel to the late fifties when similar confidence in the movement's longevity existed. Hilberg also voices disappointment with the current state of the Congress of Scientific Ufologists, noting that many attendees are more interested in selling their wares than contributing to the field. He urges readers to attend the upcoming Congress, suggesting it's not too late to take action.

Editorial and Staff

The editorial section announces the upcoming fifth Congress of Scientific Ufologists in Cleveland, June 21-23, emphasizing the need for action in the UFO field. It also introduces UFO Magazine's News Bulletin, edited by Robert Easley, which promises to report news and theories without "questionable trash." A one-year subscription to the bulletin costs one dollar. The editorial also includes a historical sighting from August 1938, reported by Mrs. Marie Friedel of Cleveland, who described seeing two faint, round, grayish-blue objects moving silently overhead.

Book Announcements and Subscriptions

Several books are advertised: "The Saucer Enigma" by Robert W. Miller and Rick R. Hilberg, described as exploring the history and origin of elusive disks, and "Saucer Album" edited by Rick R. Hilberg, featuring photos and facts about UFO sightings. A Spring Book List is also available, offering saucer books at reduced prices. The magazine itself is available via subscription for $2.00 per year in the U.S. and Canada, and $3.00 overseas. Saucer Scoop, an information bulletin with extensive exchanges with other UFO publications, is also promoted, with a subscription of $3.00 per annum.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes ufology as a serious field of study, encouraging scientific investigation and critical analysis. There is a strong emphasis on reporting sightings and theories, while also expressing concern about the commercialization and potential decline of the ufology movement due to apathy and self-interest among some practitioners. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious optimism, urging active participation and rigorous research to validate the field's existence and importance. The issue highlights the intersection of scientific theories (like the Van Allen Belts) with UFO phenomena, suggesting a need for interdisciplinary approaches. The promotion of the Congress of Scientific Ufologists indicates a desire to foster community and organized action within the ufology world.