UFO Potpourri No 315

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO POTPOURRI
Issue: 315
Publisher: JOHN F. SCHUESSLER
Date: Not specified

This issue of UFO POTPOURRI focuses on the intersection of UFO sightings and emerging technologies that could aid in their identification and study. It presents two significant case studies and discusses advancements in radar and thermal imaging.

Future Technology and UFO Shape Identification

The lead article, "FUTURE TECHNOLOGY MAY SHOW SHAPE OF UFO," details an incident on November 17, 1986, where a Japan Air Lines cargo jet was reportedly trailed by a UFO for 400 miles over the arctic skies. Captain Kenju Terauchi and his crew provided a detailed report, including drawings that depicted the size and shape of the intruder as seen on the plane's radar. Unfortunately, the report lacks photographs, videotapes, or detailed radar images. However, the article introduces an experimental radar system developed by Dr. Bernard Steinberg, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania. This "radio camera" is designed to be mounted on airplanes and can vividly depict objects, showing up as more than mere "blips" on traditional radar screens. Steinberg claims it can provide high magnification, even at night or during a blizzard, and can distinguish individual aircraft within a group. The system works by collecting signals from multiple points and reconstructing images using a computer. The article suggests that if Terauchi had used such a device, the sighting might be clearer. It notes that this technology is still new and may take 10 to 15 years to become commonly applied.

Vehicle Surface Temperature Determination

The second article, "VEHICLE SURFACE TEMPERATURE DETERMINATION," revisits the case of Stephen Michalak, who had a close encounter on May 20, 1967, with a disk-shaped object that landed on a rock. Michalak described the object changing color from red to grey-red, then to light grey, and finally to the color of hot stainless steel with a golden glow. He also reported feeling heat waves from the object and being burned when he touched its surface. The article discusses how ufologists have speculated about the materials used in the object's construction. It then introduces modern technology that can assist in such investigations: the infrared (IR) imaging system produced by Mikron Instrument Co. of Wyckoff, N.J. This system uses a remote infrared detector to rapidly determine actual temperatures and their distribution across an object's surface. The article explains that Michalak could have used such a system to determine the rate of temperature change, map hot and cool areas, and store this data for later analysis. This could reveal the object's exact shape, heat source locations, internal environment, and any temperature changes associated with movement.

Interactive Mystery Adventure

Additionally, the issue promotes an "INTERACTIVE MYSTERY ADVENTURE" offered in the March 9, 1987 issue of THE NEW YORKER magazine. Mailbox Mysteries, Inc. invites readers to become a Field Investigator to solve a mystery titled "ABDUCTION AT ARCTURUS RIDGE." The case is set in Colorado in September 1984 and involves a bizarre disappearance, a UFO contactee, and cryptic messages. Participants receive six weekly clue packets and have a chance to interview a witness. The first prize for solving the mystery is a dinner for two with a chosen character from the mystery.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the potential of advanced technology to aid in UFO investigations and the detailed analysis of specific UFO sighting cases. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious optimism regarding technological advancements and a commitment to exploring and documenting UFO phenomena through case studies and reporting on new investigative tools. The publisher, John F. Schuessler, is listed with a Houston, Texas address.