The B-57B case “Plane nonsense”

This document, authored by Francine Cordier and Patrice Seray in October 2003, provides a critical analysis of a well-known ufological photograph featuring a Martin B-57B aircraft. The photograph, originally taken in 1954 for advertising purposes, became a subject of intense interest within the ufological community after an unusual object appeared in the top right corner of certain prints. In 1964, Ralph Rankow of NICAP identified the object as appearing in 'relief' and consistent with the lighting of the scene, leading to claims that it was a genuine UFO captured on a USAF document. The authors investigate the history of this image, noting that while some theorists suggested it was a reflection of the aircraft, others viewed it as a legitimate anomaly. Through their research, the authors discovered that the photograph exists in multiple versions. They cite an aeronautical magazine, 'Connaissance de l'Histoire' (March 1980), which published the same image without the object. Furthermore, they reference information from Gilles Durand of the SCEAU, who possesses a version of the photograph that is free of any UFO. The authors conclude that the 'UFO' is an accidental artifact caused by dust or a scratch on the negative, which appeared in later prints. They argue that the persistence of the legend is due to the lack of examination of the original negative and the tendency of some ufologists to embrace such images without sufficient verification. The document serves as a debunking of the claim, highlighting the importance of provenance and technical analysis in evaluating photographic evidence.