UFO SIGHTER

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO SIGHTER
Issue: MAY, 1970
Publisher: UFO Magazine
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of UFO Sighter, dated May 1970, features a cover illustration by Glen Brock and includes an interview with Rick Hilberg, edited by Allen H. Greenfield, along with an article by Greenfield on UFO and psychic photography.

Interview with Rick Hilberg

Early Involvement and Influences

Rick Hilberg recounts his entry into the UFO field around 1958-1959, prompted by reading Donald Keyhoe's work and Donald Ruppelt's "The Report On Unidentified Flying Objects." Initially skeptical, Hilberg became intrigued and began following UFO news. His early interest was shared with friends, leading them to save clippings and form small discussion groups. He notes that literary influence primarily came from Keyhoe, while personal influence was significant from local Cleveland UFOlogist Earl Neff, who acted as a mentor.

Teen UFOlogy and Group Formation

Hilberg describes the period from about 1958 to 1960 as a time of casual interest. In 1960, he and other friends in Cleveland formed their own UFO group. They placed advertisements in magazines like Ray Palmer's "Flying Saucers" and produced their own "teen UFOlogy" magazines using a spirit duplicator. This grassroots effort was common among young enthusiasts at the time.

Field Investigations and Professionalization

Hilberg's involvement in field investigations began more seriously around 1964, coinciding with increased public interest following events like the Socorro sighting. He subscribed to a clipping service to identify local UFO reports and conduct investigations. He expresses a strong opinion that field investigations should be conducted by responsible adults over 21, citing legal and ethical reasons.

The State of the UFO Field

Comparing the period of 1957-1964 to 1970, Hilberg notes a similarity in the level of interest and the number of UFO publications, though he fears many publications are declining. He predicts a potential 'virtual collapse' of the field within six to seven months, similar to the lull experienced previously. However, he observes a strong resurgence of interest from younger people, with many teenagers operating magazines and clubs, suggesting that teenagers today are more literate and erudite than in the past.

UFOlogy Goals

When asked about the ultimate goal of the UFO field, Hilberg echoes the sentiment of many enthusiasts from years past: to understand what UFOs are, where they come from, and who or what is involved. He acknowledges the difficulty in finding definitive answers within a lifetime but stresses the importance of continuing the pursuit of knowledge, as it benefits our understanding of ourselves and our history.

UFO Photography, Psychic Photography, and Field Research

Historical Context

Allen H. Greenfield's article explores the historical connections between UFO photography and psychic photography. He references alleged psychic photographs dating back to 1862 in Boston and UFO photography potentially to 1883 in Zacatecas, Mexico. Greenfield notes that while fraud and mistakes are possible in both fields, well-documented cases like the McMinnville, Oregon sighting can provide significant evidence.

Potential Similarities and Research

Greenfield points out possible visual similarities between some 'psychic' photos and UFO photos, suggesting they might represent related phenomena. He proposes several research projects for individuals interested in UFO and psychic photography, including:

1. Random UFO Skywatch: Using a good camera, high-speed film, and a telephoto lens at a viewing location.
2. Pinpoint UFO Skywatch: Focusing on a location known for UFO activity.
3. Haunted House Photography: Experimenting with cameras in locations associated with paranormal activity.

He also mentions specific photographic films like Kodak's 2475 Recording Film.

Caution and Interpretation

Greenfield strongly advises caution in interpreting any findings. He emphasizes that seeing or photographing phenomena does not automatically confirm their nature. Possible explanations range from mental projections and optical illusions to alternate realities or even natural phenomena like marsh gas. He stresses that while the reality behind spirits and UFOs might be of extreme importance, the investigator's safety and well-being are paramount, warning against becoming a martyr for the cause.

Editorial Notes and Publications

Greenfield provides extensive notes and references, including his own previous articles published in "Saucer News," "UFO Magazine," and "UFO Chronolog." He also lists recommended books such as "House on Fire" by Arch Oboler and "Flying Saucers Have Arrived" edited by Jay David. He offers to send a booklet of "Extracts From Alternate Horizons Newsletter" to interested readers who send a postcard.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO Sighter appears to focus on the personal journeys of individuals within the UFO field, particularly during its formative years. The editorial stance, as evidenced by Greenfield's writing, is one of cautious inquiry, encouraging rigorous investigation while emphasizing critical thinking and personal safety. There's a clear interest in the historical development of UFOlogy and its intersection with other unexplained phenomena like psychic photography. The emphasis on younger enthusiasts suggests a forward-looking perspective on the field's future.