Office Memorandum: Flying Saucers

This office memorandum, dated 15 March 1949, is addressed from Dr. Stone of the OSI to Dr. Machle, also of the OSI, regarding the subject of 'Flying Saucers.' The author begins by stating that a rapid perusal of the recipient's documents leaves him feeling 'confused and inclined to supineness.' Dr. Stone proceeds to outline several critical considerations that he believes were omitted from the survey. First, he suggests that the possibility of many objects being 'free' meteorological sounding balloons was not adequately addressed. Second, he argues that if a 'flying saucer' were involved, it is extremely unlikely to be found over the United States for three reasons: U.S. developments would be coordinated with the USAF or commercial designers; foreign aircraft development would not be tested at such a range from home areas; and guided aircraft with a range of several thousand miles are beyond any known capabilities, including those of the United States. Third, the author questions the psychological probability of objects seen briefly being described as circular or oval. Finally, Dr. Stone highlights a 'curious time distribution' of observations, referencing a chart that shows a spike in sightings during the summer months. He concludes by asking if there is any 'midsummer madness' involved or if asteroids are a factor in the seasonal distribution of reports.