UFO Newsletter no 7

Magazine Overview

This issue of the UFO NEWSLETTER, dated 1 April 1957, is the seventh publication from the North Jersey U. F. O. Group (NJUFOG). It is a civilian research organization's publication, available by subscription for $2.00 per year, with single copies at 30¢. The newsletter aims to provide information on UFOs and related topics, with the views expressed not necessarily reflecting those of all members.

Table of Contents Highlights

The issue features a diverse range of articles, including:

• Frank Edwards to Return?: A call to action for readers to write to the Pabst Brewing Company to encourage sponsorship of Frank Edwards' TV program, aiming to bring UFOs into the open.
• After Months of Holding Our Breath: An update on the National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena (NICAP), highlighting its new plan of action, Donald Keyhoe's direction, and a yearly membership fee of $7.50.
• Board of Governors: A list of prominent individuals serving on NICAP's Board of Governors, including military retirees and academics.
• Full Fahrney Statement: A reprint of a statement by Rear Adm. Delmer S. Fahrney, emphasizing the need to know UFO facts and NICAP's role in screening information.
• Keyhoe VSO "Earth VSO" And Others: Donald Keyhoe's statement regarding the film adaptation of his book, "Flying Saucers from Outer Space," expressing his dismay at being misled about its documentary nature.
• Professional Astronomer on UFO's: An article by Nelson Rebel, an astrophysicist, who discusses the scientific community's cautious approach to UFO sightings, the psychological factors in observation, and the possibility of hoaxes and misidentifications.
• CSI of NY Busy: A report on the activities of the Civilian Saucer Intelligence of New York (CSI), including lectures and their stance on UFO criticism.
• Investigations Reviewed, Previewed: An overview of congressional investigations into government secrecy, including an amendment to 5 USC 22 aimed at increasing public access to information.
• Real Problem With Our Air Force?: Correspondence with Air Force personnel regarding Project BLUE BOOK Special Report No. 14.
• Astronomers' Ranks Cracking?: Discusses the resignation of H. Percy Wilkins from the British Astronomical Association and the formation of the International Lunar Society. It also mentions statements from astronomers Clyde Tombaugh and Dr. Robert S. Richardson, and questions raised by Dr. Bernard Finch regarding a newly discovered comet.
• Thinking 'Scope Boys To...: Critiques an article from TRUE Magazine that dismisses UFO sightings as airplanes, insects, or birds.
• Moseley Not Top Anti-Adamski-Ite?: An analysis of George Adamski's photographs by Lonzo Dove, suggesting they may be of a model rather than a genuine craft.

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

The editorial section discusses the new operational system for the UFO NEWSLETTER, its increased size, and a revised subscription rate. It emphasizes the importance of reader contributions and highlights the publication's reach to over 110 groups in 20 countries. A significant theme throughout the issue is the critical examination of UFO evidence, the role of scientific skepticism, and the need for credible research. The editors express a cautious but open-minded approach, advocating for factual reporting and repudiating spurious claims. There is a strong emphasis on the importance of organizations like NICAP and CSI in advancing UFO research and on the need for transparency from government agencies regarding UFO information.

This issue of Flying Saucers magazine, dated February 1957, delves into critical analyses of prominent figures and events in the UFO field. It features a cover story titled "LEY, PROGRAM WIN MARCH PRIZE," highlighting a program that discussed UFOs. The magazine's content is largely dedicated to scrutinizing claims, dissecting evidence, and reporting on the burgeoning UFO discourse.

The Adamski Saga Under Scrutiny

The magazine presents a strong case against the authenticity of George Adamski's claims. It details correspondence from a figure identified as C.L.J., who acted as the ghostwriter for Adamski's book "Flying Saucers Have Landed." Letters exchanged between C.L.J. and Mr. Lonzo Dove reveal C.L.J.'s growing skepticism, noting that Adamski's story was "all mixed up, publicity not handled right, pathetic and... too prosaic." More damning is the revelation that C.L.J. received photographs from Adamski on December 1, 1952, which Adamski later claimed to have taken on December 13, 1952. Furthermore, a Mr. Art Jaffray reported in March 1953 that he had the Adamski photos checked by Dr. La Paz and the director of Palomar, who both concluded the pictures were "not genuine."

The article criticizes the handling of the situation by two prominent figures in the saucer community. The first is C.L.J., who, despite editing a newsletter, insisted her name not be revealed, which the author suggests made her appear guilty. Her defense was based on the fact that ghostwriting a book does not invalidate the author's story, rather than challenging the factual claims. The second criticism is directed at James Moseley, editor of SAUCER NEWS, for revealing C.L.J.'s name against her wishes. The author emphasizes the importance of respecting individuals' privacy and adhering to journalistic ethics, even within specialized fields.

Edgar Sievers, author of "Flying Saucers Uber Sudafrika," is presented as offering a more rational perspective. His article, "Last Nails That Aren't," counters a previous editorial and supports the author's attempt to bring sanity to the UFO discussion. Sievers argues that if evidence is needed, it should be presented fully and without bias, stating, "No biased or distorted lid with any coffin either. And if ever there will be a last nail, none but truth can wield the hammer."

Willy Ley's 'Logical' Approach to UFOs

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a critique of Willy Ley, an authority on zoology, rockets, and Walt Disney, who appeared on the WEVD radio program "Science for the People." The program's moderator, W. Wendell Razin, is described as a member of numerous scientific societies. Ley, after plugging his book, launched into what the author terms "double talk and mixed up evidence." Ley's explanations for UFO sightings included "ball lightning," which he admitted is unknown and unidentifiable, arguing that its unknown nature doesn't prove specificity. When asked about secret government weapons, Ley suggested that camouflage might be involved and that classified information is declassified when a project becomes visible.

Ley's 'logical' mind is further explored. He questioned why intelligent beings would act foolishly if they were visiting Earth. His response to the idea of exploring or avoiding contact was that "once the contact has been made, logic also demands that behavior is modified." Regarding the possibility of alien visits, Ley stated, "Generally speaking, yes... but I don't believe that this is it."

Ley's analysis of the Mantell case is also scrutinized. He contends that Edward Ruppelt made a mistake in his book by suggesting Mantell was chasing a classified Skyhook balloon. Ley's assertion is that the balloon was not classified but "simply so new that people did not know what they were," a point the author believes demolishes both Mantell and Ruppelt. The author sarcastically notes that if the Russian high command knew how easy it was to discredit US Air Force officers, they would be interested in Mr. Ley's 'weapon.'

Ley's knowledge of UFO literature is also presented. He traces the evolution of UFO books from "The Flying Saucers are Real" to "Inside the Flying Saucers," suggesting a market saturation and a degeneration of content that moved from observation to direct contact and obtaining plans.

The author concludes that Ley, the moderator, and other guests displayed "astonishing ignorance" on the subject, calling the program an "abominable error" and an "intolerable mistake" for a show presented as documentary. The magazine awards the program the "RADIO TV BOOBY PRIZE."

News Pickups and Other Reports

The magazine includes a section of "News Pickups," summarizing various recent developments in the UFO field:

• APRG Reporter: Civilian Flying Saucer Intelligence has reorganized as the Aerial Phenomena Research Group (APRG), with Robert J. Gribble as director. The publication is noted for its copyrighted material.
• Cosmic News: Howard Neuberger and Roger Pierce are criticized for their "misleading information, half-truths, badly researched opinion, and downright scandal." Their publication, "Silence Group and the Christian," is described as a "mishmash of blood pressure catalysts."
• CRIFO Orbit: The March issue is announced as the last, lamenting the internal strife and sensationalism that have plagued the saucer field.
• Flying Saucer News Club: James S. Rigberg, editor of FLYING SAUCER NEWS, filed for bankruptcy in November 1956, and the publication and club have ceased to exist.
• Other World Science Stories: Ray Palmer's magazine will change its name to FLYING SAUCERS FROM OTHER WORLDS and become monthly, reflecting reader interest in UFOs. Palmer is noted for his involvement in various UFO-related projects and books.
• Flying Saucer Review: The January-February issue reports on a rumor of a Chilean Navy Commander Artego taking UFO motion pictures in the Antarctic, but investigations found no such officer.
• Galaxy Diskpatch: Ralph Del Piano has released the first issue of this new publication, noting items on Long John, Howard Menger, and querying the whereabouts of Lee Munsick.
• Interplanetary Foundation Newsletter: The newsletter is described as a "splendid source of information." However, it reports that the Detroit Public Library rejected a donation of "UFO and the Bible," citing lack of imagination and limited appeal.
• The Little Listening Post: This Washington-based group promotes "Long John" and "The Party Line" radio programs, urging listeners to request their broadcast on the MBS web.
• Prophetic Ensign: Arthur Bloomfield's magazine is increasingly covering UFOlogy, catering to reader interest.
• Saucer News: Justin Case is quoted arguing that UFO reports are worthless due to human unreliability and the unlikelihood of alien visitors resembling humans.
• Space (Saucer Phenomena and Celestial Enigma): This new monthly magazine, edited by Norbert F. Gariety, questions the definition of "proof" for UFOs, citing radar detections and intercepts.
• Spaceflight: Published by the British Interplanetary Society, it is described as accessible to those familiar with the UFO field.
• The Visitor: Published by the Study Group on Interplanetary Relations, it is presented as a legitimate expression of thought in the saucer world.

Notes in Space We Don't Have

This section highlights international UFO activities:

• Japan: Yusuke Matsumura, chief of the News Bureau of the Flying Saucer Research Group in Japan, describes the group as a nonprofit, private, civilian study group. They have been accepted by the Japanese aviation press.
• Brazil: The Centro de Pesquisa dos Discos Voadores (CPDV) publishes THE FLYING SAUCER magazine, which features high-level information. Brazil is becoming a major source of saucer information, with CPDV, another publication by its organizer Jose Escobar Faria, and reports by Dr. Olavo Fontes contributing.
• Astronomers Clyde Tombaugh, Dr. Seymour L. Hess, Dr. G. Duncan Fletcher, and Dr. H. Percy Wilkins are listed with their reported UFO sightings.
• The Centro de Investigacao Civil dos Objetos Aereos Nao Identificados (Belo Horizonte, Brazil) confirms, "Yes, the saucers do exist."

Book Availability: Captain Edward J. Ruppelt's "The Report on the Unidentified Flying Objects" is available in a pocketbook version. Frank Edwards' "My First 10,000,000 Sponsors" is also mentioned as scarce.

Chilean Navy Rumor: A rumor about Commander Artego of the Chilean Navy taking UFO motion pictures in the Antarctic was investigated and found to be unsubstantiated.

Cyril Ritchard Interview: The Australian actor, known for portraying an extraterrestrial, was asked about his belief in flying saucers, stating, "I hear that many great intellects believe in them. I think we shall know more...in a few years."

Vice Counsel Perego of Rome: States, "Mankind is close to the revelation of the secret of the saucers."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards sensational claims, particularly those of George Adamski, and a critical examination of explanations offered by figures like Willy Ley. The magazine advocates for a more rational, evidence-based approach to UFOlogy, distinguishing it from the "fanatic fringe." There's a clear editorial stance against unsubstantiated claims and a call for intellectual honesty and rigorous investigation. The magazine also highlights the growing intersection of science fiction and UFO research, suggesting a potential for mutual benefit if handled responsibly. The overall tone is one of critical inquiry, aiming to bring a degree of sanity and seriousness to a field often dominated by speculation and hyperbole.

This issue of "UFO" magazine, published by the North Jersey UFO Group, appears to be from January 1957. It is a compilation of various reports, analyses, and opinions related to unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and related phenomena. The magazine features a mix of news items, pilot testimonies, expert commentary, and a critical examination of skepticism within the UFO community.

Gravity Research Foundation Awards

The issue begins by announcing the eighth year of awards offered by the Gravity Research Foundation of New Boston, New Hampshire. Five awards are presented for short essays aimed at stimulating thought and encouraging work on harnessing gravity. The deadline for submissions is April 15, 1957, and inquiries should be directed to George M. Rideout, President of the Foundation.

A biblical reference from Zacharias (5:1) is included as information on 'saucers,' describing a flying roll of twenty cubits in length and ten cubits in breadth, interpreted as approximately 30 ft. by 15 ft.

UFO Information and Publications

The magazine highlights various sources for UFO-related materials. Stickers promoting public interest in UFOs are available from the Flying Saucer Review in London or the Little Listening Post in Washington, D.C., for $1 for 200. A recent edition of the Little Listening Post quotes Arthur Clarke, noting that in a British Interplanetary Journal poll, 11% of leading U.S. astronomers had seen UFOs, and 23% considered them a serious problem.

Max B. Miller, editor of "Saucers," has compiled a book titled "Flying Saucers-Fact or Fiction?" published by Trend Books. This 75¢ pamphlet is recommended for its extensive text and illustrations, though readers are cautioned to be discerning about the photos.

Dr. Leon Davidson's "Blue Book Report No. 14" is also recommended. This publication includes the main portion of the original report, an analysis by Dr. Davidson, and other material, available for $1. The magazine suggests this book should be a valuable addition to any "saucerer's" library.

UFO Newsletter and Subscriptions

The issue mentions that domestic copies of UFO Newsletter include a list of magazine subscription rates, presented as a way to support the magazine's treasury. Readers are encouraged to subscribe to periodicals to help fund the publication.

An advertisement for a chart of miscellaneous information on UFOs by Fred Keziah is also mentioned, noted for containing useful data and a convenient chronology.

Scientific Developments and UFOs

Actual figures related to the Einstein Space-Time Contraction paradox are cited, with physicist Frank S. Crawford explaining that a brother who takes a spaceship trip would be two years younger upon return to Earth. This statement is from NATURE, analyzing time-of-flight studies of mesons.

Inez Robb of the Detroit Free Press is noted for giving publicity to developments in saucerdom, with a congratulatory note and a wish that she would answer her mail.

Fortean Data and Sightings

The section "PAPERS FULL OF DATA FORTEAN" presents various unusual accounts. One story details an 80-pound piece of ice falling on a car roof in Valley Stream, Long Island, causing a bowl-shaped dent. Police speculated an iced airplane as the cause.

Another report describes a new and awesome display of colored lights in the northern skies, observed for the past month, believed by some to be related to the Aurora Borealis. These lights are described as red, covering a wide area and rising to significant heights. A similar, bright bluish-green light display was observed in the northern New Jersey and metropolitan New York areas.

A photograph taken by C. Brownie Colquitt shows a perfectly round hole about a half mile in diameter punched through a layer of clouds, explained as an area of cirrus clouds dropping through alto cumulus clouds.

Atlantic, Texas Buzzings

This section focuses on a significant sighting over the Atlantic Ocean. A Pan American Airways plane, piloted by Capt. Matthew A. Van Winkle, encountered a fiery object that forced the pilot to climb steeply to avoid a collision. The maneuver caused shock and injuries to four passengers. Van Winkle described the object as a "burning greenish-white round object, unrecognizable but definitely not a meteor." The incident was witnessed by pilots of at least seven other aircraft. The Defense Department stated that no jets were in the area and that the object was not a missile from their range.

Captain Van Winkle recounted that he instinctively pulled the plane up and to the side, causing passengers to be thrown from their seats. He noted that seven aircraft in the area saw the glow, spread over a distance of about 300 miles. The object was described as a "big spotlight" and appeared to be on a collision course.

Pilot Mystified by UFO

Captain M. A. Van Winkle provides a firsthand account of the near-collision. He describes the object as a UFO, "Unidentified Flying Object," and states he has less idea what it was today than when he tried to evade it. He describes it as looking like a big spotlight, round, and on a collision course. His flight engineer, John Washuta, also spotted it. Van Winkle performed a sharp evasive maneuver, pulling the plane up sharply. He was in routine communication with five other Pan American planes, an Eastern Air Lines plane, and a Trans-Caribbean plane, all headed in the same direction.

He recounts the confusion among pilots, with reports of "Brilliant light to starboard," "UFO report," and "What is it?" Capt. Ed Perry, piloting Pan Am's Flight 269, also witnessed the object. Van Winkle describes the object as "being almost a magnesium flash white with pale greenish tints around it," and that it moved at a terrific speed.

UFOs and Missiles

Two veteran pilots in Houston, Texas, reported chasing an unidentified flying object that played cat-and-mouse with them for ten minutes. The object was described as having three large, "White and brilliant" lights and was able to keep ahead of them easily. Ellington Air Force Base was notified, but the Air Force could not pick up the object on radar. A similar object was reported over Houston and San Angelo the previous week.

The Pentagon maintained silence regarding a guided missile that went out of control at Patrick Air Force Base in Florida. The Defense Department refused to confirm or deny details about the missile. An aerial explosion was also reported near New Smyrna Beach, Florida, following a Matador guided missile misfire and an earlier incident with a Snark missile.

Local Important Sightings

This section details a sighting by an observer whose identity is withheld due to an Armed Forces security rating. Traveling on the New Jersey Garden State Parkway, the observer saw two bright, shiny, apparently solid objects moving parallel, horizontally, one slightly below and behind the other. They were a silvery gray color and lasted about five minutes. The objects were estimated to be about 50-60 feet in length, described as "a cigar of sheet aluminum or magnesium." The observer noted "two USN jets" over them, with one jet powerdiving and circling the UFOs. The Navy air bases contacted denied sending jets for UFO identification runs. The observer was fairly certain the planes were blue-gray but saw no definite markings.

UFO Descriptions and Analysis

Another case involves a report filed by Mr. Robert W. Dunn, an amateur astronomer, licensed aircraft pilot, and former newspaper photographer. He sighted a bright yellow object approximately one quarter the diameter of the moon, which appeared solid and moved from left to right and slightly upward. He estimated its distance at 75 miles or further.

Mr. Charles Van Duyne, who was in the Air Force, filed a subsequent report of what seemed to be the same object. He described it as "shaped like a balloon and didn't appear to have wings." It made no apparent sound and was stationary. It had one bright light in front and two green lights in the back.

Mr. O. W. Foulsham, an ex-Air Corps man, provided a different account. He described the object's edges as fuzzy and noted it moved from left to right and then up. He estimated its size at 25'-30' in diameter. Unlike other cases where the object disappeared from view, this one moved behind a hill. Foulsham's drawing depicts a "Glowing Lunar Yellow" main portion with a "Bluish-Green" small area and a "Red" tail-light.

Foulsham theorized the object's construction might involve metal resistant to heat and friction, possibly surrounded by a magnetic field, and estimated its size as a disc approximately 25'-30' in diameter. He believed it was manufactured and intelligently controlled, with a speed of 90-100 mph and a distance of 4000 feet.

Waveney Girvan Charges Saucerers "Arrogant"

Waveney Girvan, a British UFOlogist, criticizes those seeking acceptance for UFOs, charging that they proceed too rapidly and exhibit "mental arrogance." He suggests that a significant percentage of sightings cannot be accounted for in conventional terms, but dismisses the idea of a "world-wide conspiracy of silence." Girvan believes governments are genuinely puzzled rather than suppressing information. He advises a gradual approach to changing skeptics' minds through tact and persuasion rather than being "pig-headed."

Girvan addresses the silence of newspapers on UFOs, attributing it to editors' skepticism and fear of ridicule, rather than censorship. He notes that newspapers are free to print what they like about saucers.

Professional Astronomer

This section includes points related to astronomers and UFOs. It suggests that most astronomers might not be observing at the distances where UFOs are detected. It also references several articles within the issue that feature astronomers' perspectives and notes remarks by Dr. Robert S. Richardson.

Navy Pilot Orders and UFOs

Gray Barker reports that in 1949, Navy pilots were under orders to shoot to kill if saucers were encountered. This statement is attributed to Irwin R. Vermillion, a CAA examiner. The magazine questions the reliability of this source and notes that any orders to arm guns would have to come from the ground.

Pocket Sized Elevation Finder for UFO's

An article describes a simple instrument for estimating the elevation angle and angular velocity of UFOs. This finder, made of shirt cardboard, metal, or plastic, involves sighting along a straight edge, using a weighted thread, and noting angles and time between readings. The article suggests that such instruments could have accurately located a balloon sighted the previous year.

Next Issue

The next issue will feature "A Compass Heading Indicator."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the reporting of UFO sightings from various sources, including pilots and civilian observers, and the analysis of these sightings. There is a consistent effort to document evidence, even while acknowledging the challenges of proof and the prevalence of skepticism. The magazine appears to advocate for a serious investigation into UFO phenomena, encouraging the collection of data and thoughtful analysis. The editorial stance seems to be one of open-minded inquiry, seeking to understand the nature of UFOs while also critically examining the claims and motivations of those involved in the UFO community. The issue also touches upon the intersection of UFOs with scientific developments and military activities, reflecting a broad interest in the subject.