UFO Newsletter no 12

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO NEWSLETTER
Issue: #12
Date: April 1, 1960
Publisher: Fulcrum Productions
Country: USA
Price: Thirty Cents

This issue marks the cessation of regular publishing activities for UFO NEWSLETTER, as announced by editor Lee R. Munsick. The magazine, which incorporated C.R.I.F.O. Orbit and Satellite, aimed to keep members of the North Jersey U.F.O. Group informed about activities, new books, and periodicals in the field. Munsick expresses trepidation about ending publication but cites several key reasons.

Editorial Stance and Reasons for Cessation

Lee R. Munsick, the editor, explains that the decision to cease publication was made after considerable thought. Initially a small bulletin, the magazine grew in scope. However, the editor notes the dwindling activities of the North Jersey UFO Group itself, with cofounders not even being subscribers.

Munsick identifies the overwhelming number and variety of UFO publications worldwide as a major factor, suggesting that instead of promoting the subject, they often confound it. He distinguishes between a 'logical, scientific approach' and the 'questionable and gullible approach' of 'contactees,' which he believes has delayed scientific acceptance of the field. He criticizes the 'contactee' stories for their 'philosophical mumbo-jumbo' and their tendency to alienate potential scientific investigators.

A second significant reason is the perceived censorship and confusion generated by official investigations, particularly by the U.S. Air Force. Munsick states that the magazine has been forced to 'do battle' with these agencies to combat the 'constricting influence of censorship, secrecy, derision, and ridicule,' which he views as symptoms of a dangerous encroachment on the rights of free people.

A third reason stems from a colleague's observation that many UFO periodicals merely publish for each other, serving as a means of collecting data rather than disseminating information. Munsick laments the demise of several fine UFO magazines and the deterioration of others.

Finally, the editor cites a lack of ample response to hopes for expansion. While acknowledging a large readership compared to other UFO magazines, it was not sufficient to warrant continued expansion or attract advertisers needed for improved printing and paper quality. He also mentions that his own time has been depleted by his radio news activities, making it difficult to dedicate the necessary time to publishing.

Munsick states that he will continue activities in other ways and that Fulcrum Productions will issue interim reports to subscribers. He also announces an upcoming "Bibliography-Review of all books directly involved with the flying saucer situation," intended to help researchers.

Key Articles and Features

Year-End 21" Punchbowl: This article, by the McGraw-Hill Economics Department and Martin Kohn, discusses a prediction made in McGraw-Hill's "Business Week" that the flying saucer question would be solved by the end of 1958. The prediction, initially a jocular 'Punch-Bowl Prediction,' was taken seriously by some reporters. Mr. Keezer, Vice-President of McGraw-Hill, clarified that the report was not a definitive prediction but a survey of the business outlook. An interim report by Martin Kohn is reprinted, which, after examining evidence from various sources, concluded that 'there was indeed something to the business of Ufology.' Kohn's report also noted that while the term 'flying saucer' might be humorous, the objects themselves should not be dismissed, and that 'intelligent space craft' are likely visitors.

THE ECONOMY OUTLOOK - PUNCH BOWL PREDICTIONS: This section includes predictions for a 'Busy Year' in various fields, including 'In Outer Space.' It forecasts that while Sputnik boosting projects might splutter, the existence of flying saucers will be 'definitely established' in 1958.

FLYING SAUCERS - AN INTERIM REPORT: Martin Kohn's report evaluates the case for flying saucers as extraterrestrial spaceships. He notes that while the term 'flying saucer' was coined by Kenneth Arnold in 1947 after he reported seeing nine disk-like objects, the phenomenon should not be dismissed as mere hoaxes. The report acknowledges that the objects could be intelligently controlled space craft.

THE MANTELL CASE: This article recounts the tragic incident of Captain Thomas F. Mantell, Jr., a National Guard pilot who pursued a UFO in 1948 and died when his plane crashed. While the Air Force suggested he was chasing a sky-hook balloon, others believe he encountered a genuine extraterrestrial craft. The case is presented as compelling evidence for interplanetary spaceships.

ARMY SHOWS LACK OF UFO DEFENSE: This news item reports that Brig. Gen. Stephen Mellnik of the Army Air Defense School claimed the Army could shoot down anything with wings, but later admitted this might not include flying saucers. Major Waights M. Taylor provided speed and altitude parameters for Nike weapons that were significantly lower than observed UFO speeds, and both officers evaded direct questions about UFO defense.

ENTERTAINERS, NEWSMEN REFUSE UFO COMMENT: This section details how the National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena (NICAP) approached prominent entertainers like Arthur Godfrey and Dave Garroway to present fair reports on UFOs. Both entertainers, through their representatives, declined to feature such discussions, citing fixed program plans or lack of suitable slots.

NEWS ITEMS: Includes brief reports on the Army's lack of UFO defense and UFO statements from Air Groups.

SIGHTINGS: A brief report titled "UFO Stalls Two Automobiles."

NOTICES: Features an advertisement for "Quality Optical Instruments."

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: Includes correspondence from readers seeking UFO-related contacts (Thomas Birchenough Jr. from England), expressing interest in the subject (Eugene Chamberland), complimenting the newsletter (Dewey J. Fournet, Jr.), inquiring about the origin of the 'outer space' UFO idea (Elsie Basset), and a correction regarding a past implication of connection to the 'Solar Cross Group' (Thomas M. Comella).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of UFO investigations, the challenges posed by misinformation and 'contactee' narratives, and the perceived obstruction by official bodies like the U.S. Air Force. The editorial stance, clearly articulated by Lee R. Munsick, favors a rigorous, scientific approach to UFO study and expresses concern over the detrimental impact of sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims. There is a strong emphasis on the need for honest reporting and a critique of media and official reluctance to engage with the subject openly. The magazine's closure is framed as a strategic move to better support organizations like NICAP, which are seen as actively working towards a more credible understanding of the UFO phenomenon. The issue also highlights the economic and media interest in UFOs, as seen in the McGraw-Hill predictions and the refusal of entertainers to discuss the topic.

This issue of "ZERO INFINITY," a section within "Aircraft and Missiles Manufacturing," published by Chilton Company in April 1958, focuses on the topic of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and their potential identity as extraterrestrial spaceships. The content is a reprint of an article from "Aircraft and Missiles Manufacturing" and features contributions from various individuals in the fields of astronomy, aviation, and journalism.

Why Saucers Could Be Space Ships

The first article, titled "Why Saucers Could Be Space Ships," explores the possibility of interplanetary travel. It begins by invoking the laws of chance, noting the vast number of stars and planets, which makes the existence of intelligent beings elsewhere in space a reasonable belief. The article then delves into observable evidence, distinguishing between Identified Flying Objects (IFOs) and true "unknowns." The Air Force reportedly classifies 2% of sightings as unknowns, though critics like Major Donald E. Keyhoe suggest the actual percentage is closer to 12% since 1947. Two key reasons suggest some unknowns might be spaceships: their maneuverability indicating intelligent control, and the fact that many reports come from professionals like pilots and radar operators.

The article presents a debate between a "Skeptic" and a "Believer" regarding the nature of these unexplained saucers. The skeptic questions why they must be extraterrestrial, suggesting they could be earthly craft. The believer counters that no country would hide such an achievement, nor risk war by invading another's airspace. The skeptic also points to the varied appearance of UFOs, while the believer argues that uniformity is not a criterion for existence, comparing it to different car models.

A significant point of contention is the lack of "hardware" or tangible evidence. The skeptic argues that until such evidence is secured, there's no solid ground to believe they are intelligently controlled spaceships. The believer retorts that we know little about spaceships and that they might leave no trace. The article notes that the National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena (NICAP) claims metal fragments have been recovered, but no link to UFOs has been established.

Conclusion and Appendix

The conclusion states that the publication remains on the fence, "waiting for some solid hardware." It humorously suggests that 1958 might be the year a flying saucer lands in Times Square, assuring readers that ufologists believe the pilots are friendly and merely on a "picnic or sporting expedition."

The appendix introduces "The Flying Saucer Press," describing a burgeoning industry of about 30 publications in the US devoted to UFOs. It distinguishes between publications by "contactees" who claim direct interaction with spacemen and those by more responsible ufologists who base their opinions on rational investigation. The article criticizes some contactee publications for their sensationalism and trick photography, citing an example of a fake spaceship made from a hub cap and coffee can.

It highlights that many UFO aficionados are united in their conviction that the Air Force is deliberately downplaying the mystery to prevent public panic. NICAP's "The UFO Investigator" is presented as a leading publication in UFO reporting, known for its sincere effort to uncover the truth and its policy of exposing hoaxes.

Editorials

Under the heading "Editorials," the issue touches upon the responsibilities of American journalism and the public's right to information. It references a question posed to Sevareid about UFO censorship and news blackouts, who offered a polite but non-committal response. The editorial expresses disappointment with Presidential News Secretary James Hagerty's perceived lack of action in ensuring non-security information is freely available, despite his public stance against censorship.

Zero Infinity: Are They Best for Space Flight?

This section features an article by W. Thomas H. MacNew, reprinted from "Aircraft and Missiles Manufacturing." It explores the theoretical aspects of using "flying saucer" shapes for space flight, particularly for re-entry into Earth's atmosphere. Dr. W. F. Hilton's work is cited, suggesting that saucer-like shapes are being considered for manned stellar exploration.

The article discusses two possibilities for re-entry: plunging and braking with rockets, or entering an orbit and using aerodynamic descent. The latter is preferred. It details the high velocities involved (7 mi/sec or Mach 34) and the need for a vehicle shape that provides high drag and lift. The concept of a low aspect ratio wing, such as a square, circular, or triangular layout, is proposed for generating high lift and drag. Delta wings are noted as having no advantage beyond Mach 34.

Table 1 provides data on atmospheric pressure, loading, density, and heating kilowatts at various altitudes. The article explains that a vacuum formed over the top surface of a wing could minimize loading and insulate the crew, while the lower surface would experience severe heating effects, potentially reaching 50,000°C at Mach 34. The role of the ratio of specific heats (gamma) in the design is also discussed.

Calculations suggest that for a specific heat ratio of 1.4, a near-uniform pressure of 1089P over the hot surface at minus 45 degrees incidence would be required. For a gamma of 1.66, a minus 30-degree incidence gives a similar lift but lower drag. Wing loadings around 100 lb/sq ft could indicate operating altitudes of 250,000 ft. The article also touches on the challenges of breaking contact after a short period and floating into space to cool off, and the need for spin stabilization due to the potential for tail burn-off.

An Astronomer Asks: Do UFO's Exist?

Written by Robert W. Dunn, A.A.V.S.O., this article presents a critical perspective on UFO sightings and investigations. Dunn recounts Clyde Tombaugh's sighting of unidentified flying objects in 1951, which he described as "unlike any other phenomena I have ever observed." He also quotes Adm. Delmar Fahrney, who stated that objects are entering Earth's atmosphere at speeds and accelerations that cannot be duplicated by any agency, suggesting intelligent guidance.

Dunn details the history of Air Force UFO investigations, including Project Sign (1947), Project Grudge (1951), and Project Blue Book (1952). He notes that the Air Force has admitted to unexplained sightings, with 20% classified as unknowns, but emphasizes that this does not mean the other 80% were falsified. He criticizes the sensationalism surrounding UFOs in newspapers and the tendency for individuals involved in investigations to be prone to "ridiculous, religious and pseudo cults."

A significant point is AFR 200-2, issued in 1953, which stipulated that only hoaxes, practical jokes, and erroneous UFO reports could be released to the press, implying the Air Force distrusts the public. Dunn advocates for an open mind and a serious, scientific approach to studying UFOs, acknowledging that even competent observers can be victims of their own imagination.

He stresses the importance of recording all facts during a sighting, including object descriptions, shape, size, color, formation, speed, maneuvers, time, date, location, weather, and any other relevant conditions. Dunn's credentials as a qualified photographer, pilot, and aviation industry employee are noted.

The Day All Roads Led to Alamogordo

This article by Terry Clarke recounts a series of events in Alamogordo, New Mexico, related to UFO sightings. Clarke, a newscaster at KALG radio, receives numerous calls about a "funny light in the sky" while reporting on a UFO sighting near Levelland, Texas. He investigates further and speaks with Ken Prather, an engineer at the missile center, who mentions an engineer named Jim Stokes who reported an unusual experience.

Stokes, a rocket engineer, reported that while driving on Highway 54, his car's radio began to fade, and his automobile slowed down and stopped with a dead motor. He described a heat wave that stalled his car and several others. Clarke attempts to track down Stokes, eventually meeting him, along with Coral Lorenzen of APRO and her husband, to record his story. The transcript of Stokes' account details the incident occurring at ten minutes past one in the afternoon on Highway 54, about eight miles past Orogrande, where his car stalled and the radio faded.

Air Groups Issue UFO Statements

This brief section notes that two respected aviation organizations, the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) and the Flight Safety Foundation, have issued important statements on UFOs. It mentions the case of Captain Peter Killian, who was allegedly told to stop discussing a verified UFO sighting. The article indicates that ALPA's President provided a reply regarding the CIRVIS system and its implications for pilots.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the possibility of UFOs being extraterrestrial spacecraft, the scientific and theoretical aspects of their potential technology (especially regarding re-entry), and the perceived lack of transparency and mishandling of information by the U.S. Air Force. There is a clear distinction made between sensationalized accounts from "contactees" and more grounded, investigative approaches by ufologists and scientists. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious inquiry, advocating for a scientific and open-minded approach while acknowledging the limitations of current evidence and the need for more concrete proof. The issue also highlights concerns about censorship and the public's right to know, particularly concerning UFO phenomena.

This issue of UFO Newsletter, identified as issue #311, focuses on reports and investigations into unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and related phenomena. The content includes detailed witness testimonies, investigative efforts, and scientific analysis of materials.

The Caldwell 'Sky-Junk' Incident The lead article, "A REPORT ON SKY-JUNK" by Lee R. Munsick, details an investigation into a mysterious substance found in the streets of Caldwell, New Jersey, on May 22 or 23, 1957. Herbert Andrews, a resident, reported seeing a strange object shortly after 2 a.m. He described it as a flare, burning from red to yellow, which emitted spluttering noises. The material burned for hours and, when examined the next afternoon, was found to have burned a hole in a concrete curbing and embedded itself in the ground. The material was described as tarry or glassy, pock-marked with tiny holes, and surprisingly light in weight, containing pieces of copper and a granitical or marble-like substance. It appeared to have melted and solidified, with a shiny and smooth surface, save for tiny air bubbles and stone pieces. The material was found to be hard and porous. Investigations with the local utility company revealed no unusual electrical conditions, and the area had no industrial activity. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the Office of Naval Research were consulted, with NASA stating they had no explanation and ONR treating it as an unidentified flying object case. E. P. Henderson from the Smithsonian Institution examined samples and suggested it was a siliceous slag, possibly from a smelting process or an electrical short, containing copper and quartz. A qualitative spectrographic analysis (Table A) was performed, identifying various elements, with copper detected in a small amount. The analyst could not definitively explain the material's origin.

The 'Stokes' Sighting and Media Frenzy The issue extensively covers a sighting by a witness identified as 'Stokes,' a recognized engineer and retired Chief Petty Officer. The witness reported seeing a high-speed, egg-shaped object that caused his car and others in the vicinity to stop, with engines dying. The object was estimated to be moving at Mach Two, or up to twenty-five hundred miles per hour, and was about five hundred feet long. It exhibited no visible markings, vapor trails, fire, smoke, or sound, except for a light heat wave. The witness declined to offer personal conclusions about the phenomenon. The reporter, Terry Clarke, a news director at KALG in Alamogordo, New Mexico, pursued this story vigorously, filing it with wire services. The story quickly gained national attention, with CBS-TV, United Press, TIME Magazine, and other media outlets seeking more details. Clarke's efforts involved recording an interview with Stokes and feeding the tape to various stations. The Air Force Missile Development Center was also involved, interrogating Stokes. The report gained further credibility when a Coast Guard cutter in the Gulf of Mexico reported spotting a similar UFO.

Other Witness Accounts and Material Studies Further reports include a sighting by Trent Lindsay, his wife, and son, who observed a strange, cylindrical-shaped object moving at high speed. Their experience also involved their car's speedometer malfunctioning, jumping from 60 to 110 mph, and then returning to normal after the object passed. This sighting, similar to Stokes', added to the credibility of the reports. The newsletter also presents findings from N. N. Kohanowski, an engineer-geologist who studied several 'slag' falls in North Dakota since 1957. Table B details individual descriptions of these western slags, including cases near Langdon, Price, Breien, and Drake. The Langdon material included periclase, fuggerite, gebollite, and spinel, while other cases had similar compositions. Kohanowski also studied lignite clinkers for comparison. The presence of certain minerals in the slags was puzzling, suggesting formation in conditions with excess magnesium and aluminum.

Media Coverage and Official Reactions The article highlights the extensive media coverage of the 'Stokes' case, with the reporter's efforts to gather and disseminate information. It notes the initial Pentagon tactics of 'debunk-and-ridicule' but also mentions that officials at the missile center eventually acknowledged the witness's credibility due to his background. The issue also touches upon the success of science fiction trends and how actual science fact is catching up. The article from WRITER'S DIGEST is reprinted, praising Clarke's reporting and the importance of the 'Stokes case' in Ufology.

Air Group Statements Statements from the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) and Flight Safety Foundation are included. Clarence N. Sayen of ALPA acknowledged that while some UFOs are scientifically explained, others remain a mystery, but ALPA members have not asked for help in substantiating or explaining phenomena. Jerome Lederer of Flight Safety Foundation expressed interest in incidents that pose danger aspects to conventional air traffic.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of unexplained aerial phenomena, the analysis of physical evidence, the role of media in reporting such events, and the often-elusive nature of official explanations. The editorial stance appears to be one of diligent reporting and open inquiry, presenting witness accounts and scientific findings without immediate dismissal, while acknowledging the challenges and mysteries that persist in the field of Ufology. The publication seems to favor a thorough, fact-based approach to understanding these phenomena, even when official sources are unforthcoming.

This issue of the UFO CRITICAL BULLETIN, dated May-June 1959, delves into the scientific analysis of materials associated with UFO sightings and incidents, alongside a detailed account of a specific UFO encounter. The primary focus is on the research conducted by Prof. Kohanowski and Dr. Charles A. Maney.

Analysis of UFO Clinkers and Slag Materials

The issue begins with an examination of clinkers taken from a firebox of an old locomotive at the Kincaid 30 Lignite Mine in Columbus, North Dakota. These clinkers had identical mineralogical composition but differed from unknown clinkers, primarily in fragility and the presence of red iron ocher. The only identifiable minerals found were mellilites, with no carbon or fused glass.

Prof. Kohanowski performed Differential Thermal Analyses (DTA) on various clinkers. DTA involves heating small samples while measuring temperature changes, which indicate dehydration, oxidation, burning, or recrystallization, resulting in downward (endothermal) or upward (exothermal) peaks on a temperature graph. The exothermal humps between 300° and 500°C were attributed to the burning of coke within the clinkers. A sharp peak at 9400°C on the 'Langdon curve' was likely due to spinel. The DTA curves for some samples, particularly those from Caldwell Fall, differed significantly from ordinary materials, resembling obsidian or volcanic glass in their thermal behavior.

The glasslike material from Caldwell Fall had a specific gravity between 1.5 and 1.75 and a hardness of 5.75 on the Mohs scale, making it comparable to obsidian scoria. Elements found in the glass were also present in minute amounts in petroleums and asphalts, suggesting a possible origin from nearby asphalt roadways or concrete curbing.

A thin section of the Caldwell glass, examined under a petrographic microscope, revealed a scoriatic or spongy structure of mineral glass containing phenocrysts of gehlenite (a variety of mellilite common in artificial slags) and smaller inclusions of fine-grained magnetite. The absence of alteration products of gehlenite, unlike other UFO clinkers, indicated intense heat and no retained water. Prof. Kohanowski noted that the presence of magnetite was novel in his experience with UFO clinkers and further supported the high-temperature hypothesis.

He also suggested that the size of gehlenite grains could potentially be used to estimate the duration of a conflagration and the time the slag remained liquid.

An examination of a blob of copper found at the Caldwell site indicated a fusion temperature above 1981°F. A separate analysis of the Caldwell material placed in boiling acids produced a residue of organic materials and a precipitation of crystals from a strongly acid solution.

Table C in the issue presents DTA graphs for various clinkers, including Known Straw Clinker, Lignite Clinker-Kincaid, Langdon Fall, Breien Fall, Price Fall, Caldwell Fall, and Drake Fall.

Spectrographic Analysis and Comparisons

Prof. Kohanowski pointed out that the Spectrographic Analysis of the Caldwell Fall was unusual, as it did not correspond to any known minerals or rocks. Attempts to match it with artificial alloys were also unsuccessful.

Dr. Charles A. Maney, a physics professor and UFO investigator, was consulted. Dr. Maney had been studying a fall near Toledo, Ohio, known as the Kerwin Fall, which occurred on May 26, 1956. A simple analysis of the Kerwin material showed it to be primarily silicon, copper, and aluminum, with lesser amounts of lead, magnesium, vanadium, chromium, iron, and zinc.

Comparing the Caldwell analysis with the Kerwin Fall analysis, Dr. Kohanowski noted their similarity, with the main difference being the absence of lead in the Caldwell material. He also reviewed observations of burning objects by Herbert Andrews, who reported red and yellow flame colors, possibly due to calcium and sodium. The absence of lithium or strontium was noted, and any green flame from copper might have been camouflaged.

Prof. Kohanowski expressed his uncertainty about the nature of the objects causing fires in haystacks or grass, noting that the residues were slags. He mentioned that he had been unable to obtain an authentic straw clinker for comparison but recalled that straw clinker was different in color and structure. He observed that the collected specimens, from widely separated places and times, all shared similar characteristics, including reports from multiple observers.

Hypothesis on Meteoritic Origin

Prof. Kohanowski advanced a temporary hypothesis that these samples might be a new kind of meteorite, combustible in the atmosphere and of low density. Such meteorites, he suggested, could readily ignite grass and straw, forming clinkers, and explain the lack of craters or other normal evidence of meteorites. Their combustibility in Earth's atmosphere could also explain why they might have escaped detection.

He concluded that such strange objects from the sky could explain a number of reported 'fireballs' as UFOs.

UFO Stalls Two Automobiles

This section details an incident that occurred on a pleasant Saturday afternoon. A Pennsylvania mechanic, Robert Buchman, and another driver experienced their car engines cutting out simultaneously as an unidentified object moved slowly overhead. This case was compared to a similar incident in Montevideo, Uruguay, reported in the May-June 1959 issue of UFO CRITICAL BULLETIN.

Robert Buchman was driving on a rural road near Egypt and Slatington, north of Allentown, Pennsylvania, between 5:30 and 5:45 PM. He noticed an intermittent buzzing noise on his radio, and then his car, moving at about 40 mph, stalled. He pulled over and noticed a green Pontiac stalled about 25 feet in front of him. Buchman described the object overhead as a "dark balloon or zeppelin," about 15 or 20 feet long, resembling an "advertising balloon." It was moving north. After about 3 to 5 minutes, both car engines restarted, and the object moved away. No other vehicles passed them.

Buchman, a mechanic, found absolutely nothing wrong with his car, which he maintained meticulously. Efforts to identify the other driver were unsuccessful. Investigations with local aircraft operators, control towers, newspapers, radio stations, and police yielded no information about the object or any unusual happenings that fit the description.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of physical evidence associated with UFO phenomena, particularly the analysis of unusual materials like clinkers and slags. The issue highlights the challenges in identifying these materials within known geological or mineralogical classifications, suggesting they may represent novel substances or processes. The possibility of extraterrestrial or unusual atmospheric phenomena, such as combustible meteorites, is explored as an explanation for these findings. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous scientific inquiry, encouraging further analysis and investigation into these unexplained cases, while also acknowledging the speculative nature of some hypotheses.