Photographs and Background on Unidentified Flying Object Seen by Ralph L. Mayher

This document, dated November 7, 1957, serves as a transmittal record for photographic evidence related to a UFO sighting by Ralph L. Mayher in 1952. The correspondence confirms that in response to a telephone request, certain photographs of an unidentified flying object were provided for review, with the expectation that they could be retained for 30 days. The document details the technical specifications of the imagery, noting that the original source was 16mm movie film. The author explains that print 'A' is an enlarged photograph from the original 1952 film, while print 'B' is an outsized enlargement derived from a stepped-up negative of one of the original frames. The document provides specific background information regarding the sighting: the camera utilized a 16mm lens with a focal length of 63mm and a speed of 24 frames per second. The object was estimated to be at an altitude of 2,000 feet, and the camera angle was estimated at 45 degrees. The object was described as a saucer, specifically a rotating oblate spheroid that appeared to flatten as its speed increased. It was observed for approximately three minutes and was noted to be a bright orange color. Technical details regarding the photography include the use of fast panchromatic film and an aperture of f/2.7. The document concludes by noting that the individual who provided the materials expressed a willingness to loan the original negatives to the Air Force if they would serve a useful purpose.