Project Sign Progress Report, 1948

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CONFIDENTIAL

Identification of Subject Matter (as per sample)

MCIA

MCIT

19 Feb 48

1

1. Reference is made to the films taken by Mr. Rhoades (Incident #40) which were forwarded for examination. The following data were derived from a study of the specimen:

a. It is concluded that the image is of true photographic nature, and is not due to imperfections in the emulsion, or lack of development in the section in question. The image exhibits a "tail" indicating the proper type of distortion due to the type of shutter used, the speed of the object and the fixed speed of the shutter. This trailing off conforms to the general information given in the report.

b. The report states the object was seen at approximately 2000 feet at the time of exposure. The observer also reports being able to see clearly a canopy of enclosure. The visual acuity of an average person would allow for this perception, but certainly not much further as the subject had low visual contrast, being gray against a gray sky. If we can establish the distance from camera to subject, we will have quantity #1. The report states that a 620 camera was used, indicating several possibilities, since the 620 is nomenclature for the spooling and width of the film we may have negatives 2 1/2 x 2 1/2", 2 1/2 x 3 1/2" and 2 1/2 x 4 1/2". The sample submitted had been cut and it was not possible to establish the exact frame size. The 2 1/2 x 2 1/2" size was ruled out, leaving 2 1/2 x 3 1/2" and 2 1/2 x 4 1/2". If it were the former, then the focal length of the lens would be 4", and using 2000 feet as the approximate subject distance and the image size at 7/64", we have an approximate size of 44 feet as the diagonal of the object. Now if we choose the latter value of 5" for focal length, we have an approximate value of 55' for the diagonal. Points of measurement are indicated from x to x on Exhibit "A".

Inc 4

CONFIDENTIAL

NND 927545