65_HS1-834228961_62-HQ-83894_Section_007

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Attempts at interception are not made every time that unidontified ilI]tlges •
appear briefly on an Air Force radar-scope. Current Air Force interceptors are
short-range, short-duration, high-speed aircraft and can be employed most
effectively when it is poaeiblo to track a target by visual or radar means
oo that its position in the air at some futuro time may be predicted with a
reasonable degree of accuracy.
Methods of Evnluating
The first step in evaluating sightings of unusual aerial phenomona is to
collect all available data and check it against known airborne objects such as
balloons, aircraft, missiles, meteors, and weathor phenomena. If still unexplained,
reports from reliable sources, with sufficient details, are turned overt~
specialists in various scientific fields for further analysis.
As stated earlier, there is a need for better reports from trained observers
using adequate equipment. The Air Force intends to implement its present study
with instruments wherever possible.
The recent development of special photographic equipment may make it possible
to gather data hitherto unobtainable through ordinary photographic methods. This
equipment consists of a diffraction grating camera which separates light into its
component parts (spectrum) o.nd registers them on film.
Tho principle involved is
that used by astronomers in determining the composition of tho stars. In this
manner Air Force scientists may b0 able to determine the characteristics of the
phenomena and subsequently identify the source.
Another proposal involves the use of a continuously operating Schmidt
telescope equipped with a camera. Thie telescope has a wide aperture lens and
is capable of covering a cone of 150 degrees or nearly tho whole sky from horizon
to horizon. This equipment will make it possible to get on a series of photo­
graphic plates a complete record of what happens in the sky at night.
What
11Saucers" Are Not
The Air Force has st~ted in tho past, and reaffirms at tho present time, that
these unidentified aerial phenomena are not a secret weapon, missile or aircraft,
developed by the United States. None of the three military departments nor any
other agency in the government is conducting experiments, classified or otherwise,
with flying objects which could be a basis for the reported phenomena.
As far as
is known there is nothing in them tho.tis associated with me.terial or vehicles
that are directed against the United States, from another country or from other
planets.
Your interest in this matter is greatly appreciated, Please call upon us if
we may be of further service.
Sincerely yours,