Office Memorandum: Flying Saucers

This office memorandum, dated March 15, 1949, from Dr. Stone of the OSI to Dr. Machle, provides a critical assessment of a survey regarding 'flying saucers.' Dr. Stone begins by expressing frustration with the quality of the documents provided, noting that they leave the reader 'confused and inclined to supineness.' The memorandum outlines several specific considerations that the author believes were omitted from the survey. First, the author suggests that the possibility of the objects being 'free' meteorological balloons was not adequately addressed. Second, the author argues that the hypothesis of 'flying saucers' is unlikely for three reasons: U.S. developments would be coordinated with commercial designers; foreign aircraft development would not be tested at such ranges; and the reported range of several thousand miles exceeds known capabilities, including those of the United States. The author also raises a question regarding the psychological probability of objects appearing as circular or oval against a 'zero' background. Finally, the memorandum includes a chart illustrating the time distribution of sightings and questions whether there is any 'midsummer madness' involved or if asteroids are prominent during that season.