Australian Flying Saucer Review - 1960 09 - vol 1 no 3

Magazine Overview

Title: AUSTRALIAN FLYING SAUCER REVIEW
Issue: VOL.1, No.3
Date: September, 1960
Publisher: Australian FLYING SAUCER Review
Country: Australia

This issue of the Australian Flying Saucer Review, Vol. 1, No. 3, dated September 1960, presents a comprehensive exploration of UFO phenomena, scientific perspectives, and historical interpretations. The magazine reflects a shift in scientific attitudes towards UFOs, moving from skepticism to incipient belief, and features articles on notable sightings, theoretical possibilities of extraterrestrial contact, and the implications of space exploration.

Shifting Scientific Beliefs

The editorial highlights the changing climate of scientific thought regarding UFOs, noting the conversion of prominent figures like Chapman Pincher, science correspondent for the 'Daily Express.' Pincher is quoted as challenging the intransigent attitude of Astronomer-Royal Dr. Van de Riet Woolley towards space travel and flying saucers, suggesting that Woolley might soon be the sole holder of his skeptical belief.

The editorial also references a statement by Dr. Ronald Bracewell, an Australian radio-astronomer, who suggests that artificial satellites from other stars might already be orbiting within our solar system, undetected. This is presented as further evidence that the theoretical case against UFOs has weakened with scientific advancements, particularly the understanding that intelligent life is not a result of mere chance but a standard universal procedure.

Communications from Superior Galactic Communities

An article by Prof. R.N. Bracewell, based on a 'Nature' publication, discusses the possibility of advanced extraterrestrial societies beaming transmissions at Earth. Bracewell explains the rationale behind searching for such signals, particularly at a frequency of 1,420 mc./s., and suggests that advanced societies might be sending probes to nearby stars. These probes, equipped with durable radio transmitters, could be designed to attract the attention of other technologies. Bracewell proposes that efforts should be focused on scrutinizing our solar system for signs of such probes, as this would allow us to detect signals from all capable stars, not just those nearest to us.

Ancient Encounters and UFOs

Alexander Kazantsev, a Russian scientist and writer, explores the theory that Earth may have been visited by unknown cosmonauts in antiquity. He points to the Tungus explosion as a potential event related to a spaceship explosion, citing the presence of isotopes like Strontium-90 and Carbon-14. Kazantsev interprets biblical references, such as those in Genesis and the Revelation of Saint John the Divine, as possible accounts of encounters with cosmonauts and warnings about nuclear warfare.

Further evidence for ancient visitation is presented through various cultural and material monuments. The article mentions the Baalbek Verandah, structures of the 'Titans,' mysterious lines in South America, and a cliff drawing from the Sahara depicting a figure resembling a man in a space suit. The Spanish conquistadores' accounts of the Inca state, organized by 'sons of heaven,' are also cited as potentially related to extraterrestrial influence.

Notable Sightings and Phenomena

The issue details several significant UFO sightings:

• Katoomba UFO Classic (July 16, 1957): A bright oval object, half the size of the moon, was sighted over Katoomba, Australia, by John Hickey and his family. The craft exhibited unusual lights, sounds, and maneuvers, including a roar and a stop in mid-air. The R.A.A.F. was alerted, and the event garnered significant media attention.
• Fatima Sky Phenomenon (October 13, 1917): A bright disc appeared in the sky over Fatima, Portugal, during a rainy day. Eyewitnesses described it as a dazzling, pearl-grey globe that performed abrupt movements, including a zig-zag plunge, and emitted waves of heat. This event is presented as a potential precursor to modern 'flying saucer' phenomena.
• Washington D.C. Radar Incident (June 19-20, 1952): Dramatic scenes unfolded in the Air Control Centre in Washington, D.C., as multiple UFOs were spotted on radar over the restricted area. These objects performed incredible maneuvers, including a ninety-degree turn and acceleration from 130 to 500 miles per hour in four seconds, with one craft computed at 7,200 miles per hour.
• Singapore Sighting (March 25, 1960): A mysterious bluey-white object was seen flashing across the sky above Sydney, reported by numerous people. Officials were unable to identify it, and it was described as hovering before moving south.
• Rome Radar Detection (July 19, 1960): Military radar screens detected an unidentified object traveling at 12,500 miles per hour over northern Italy, leaving a luminous trail. It was described as oblong-shaped and suggested to be a missile or rocket due to its straight route.

Scientific and Technological Developments

The magazine touches upon the concept of a 'Time Machine,' referencing H.G. Wells's story and Dr. Albert Einstein's theory of relativity. It mentions that Dr. J. Vodgoretsky's team at Dubna Atomic Centre has blueprints for a time machine, suggesting that travel into the future might be possible by achieving extremely high speeds in rockets.

Furthermore, the issue discusses the potential for 'Space Robots' from outer space to scan Earth, citing a statement by an American science professor. It also reports on the Russian launch of a 44-ton spaceship-satellite into orbit.

Official Stances and Organizations

The role of the U.S. Air Force in investigating UFOs is highlighted, with reference to Air Force Regulation 200-2, which outlines the threefold concern: defense threat, contribution to knowledge, and public information. Despite official denials, the regulation indicates a serious approach to UFO sightings.

Vice Adm. R. H. Hillenkoetter, former head of the Central Intelligence Agency and a NICAP Board member, is quoted stating that UFOs are operating under intelligent control and that secrecy should end. The majority opinion of the NICAP Board and Special Advisers is released, concluding that the unknown devices are intelligently controlled machines from outer space.

The formation of the AUSTRALIAN UFO GROUPS UNITE is announced, amalgamating the Queensland Flying Saucer Research Bureau, the Unidentified Flying Objects Investigation Centre of New South Wales, and the Victorian Flying Saucer Research Society into the U.F.O. Association of Australia. This union aims to promote UFO research on a wider basis.

Book Reviews and Subscriptions

The issue includes a book review of Donald E. Keyhoe's "FLYING SAUCERS TOP SECRET," praising its demonstration of the objective reality of extra-terrestrial craft and the suppression of governmental UFO findings. A list of new UFO books is also provided, along with subscription details for various flying saucer research societies and the Australian Flying Saucer Review itself.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the growing acceptance of UFOs within scientific and public discourse, the exploration of potential extraterrestrial visitation throughout history, and the technological advancements related to space exploration. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry, encouraging the accumulation of physical evidence and the dissemination of information, while also acknowledging the official and scientific skepticism that still exists. The magazine advocates for a serious and principled approach to UFO research, aiming to enlighten the public about the phenomena.

This is the August 1947 issue of 'Saucer' magazine, a publication dedicated to reports and investigations of unidentified flying objects (UFOs). The cover prominently features headlines about flying saucer sightings in various parts of the world, including Fiji, Washington, Canada, New York, and Britain. The issue appears to be from the United States, with a publisher listed as 'Our Staff Corresp'.

Key Articles and Reports

"Flying Saucers in wake of Orbiting Atlas"

This lead story, likely from New York, Sat., suggests a renewed interest in flying saucers following the launch or news of an "orbiting Atlas," possibly referring to a satellite or a significant celestial event. It highlights that flying saucers have reappeared in the news and skies.

"MEN WAVED"

This section, datelined ANE, Sal., describes flying saucers bathed in light and carrying "illuminated men," reportedly sighted from New Guinea by an individual.

"U.S. PILOT'S ENCOUNTER STRANGE OBJECT PUZZLES BRITAIN"

Datelined London, Saturday (A.A.P.-Reuter), this report indicates that R.A.F. radar stations in Britain were alerted to unidentified objects. The headline suggests a connection to a U.S. pilot's encounter.

"WASHINGTON, Wed. (BUP). - A U.S. airline pilot L. R.C."

This article details a sighting by a U.S. airline pilot who described seeing a "glowing brightly" object perform a series of violent maneuvers, described as "sharper than any known aircraft." The pilot, identified as L.R.C., was flying in the Washington area.

"From Our Staff Corresp NEW YORK, July 15."

This report details an incident involving two veteran Pan-American Airways DC4 pilots who, on July 15th, reported sighting "flying saucers" flying at an estimated 1,000 m.p.h. near Norfolk, Virginia. The objects were seen at altitudes between 6,000 and 10,000 feet before disappearing. The pilots described the objects as "definitely interesting" and noted that the centrifugal force experienced during their maneuvers would be difficult for humans to endure. Pilot V. B. Nash is quoted stating that while "something" was seen, its nature remained undetermined beyond it not being a conventional aircraft.

"Air mystery over Canada"

Datelined OTTAWA, Mon., this report describes how the skies over Western Ontario were filled with a mysterious dazzling flying object that left a vapor trail and travelled at a speed estimated to be more than 1,000 miles per hour. The sighting was reported by a white clergyman and four natives.

"The Fiji Government GLC"

This brief mention notes that the Fiji Government reported sighting a mysterious dazzling flying object.

Object Characteristics and Behavior

The objects described in this issue are consistently referred to as "flying saucers" or "dazzling flying objects." They are noted for their high speeds, estimated at over 1,000 miles per hour, and their ability to fly at significant altitudes, ranging from 6,000 to 10,000 feet. Their behavior is characterized by pulsating lights and violent, sharp maneuvers that exceed the capabilities of known aircraft. One report mentions a vapor trail left by an object. The presence of "illuminated men" within some saucers is also reported.

Key Persons and Organizations

Key individuals mentioned include pilots V. B. Nash and Fortenberry, and a U.S. airline pilot identified as L.R.C. Organizations involved in the reports include Pan-American Airways, the U.S. Air Force (implied by the context of military alerts), and the R.A.F. (Royal Air Force).

Locations Mentioned

Sightings and alerts occurred in various locations: Virginia (USA), Western Ontario (Canada), Washington (USA), New Guinea, Britain, and Fiji.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the widespread and persistent reports of unidentified flying objects in the late 1940s. The magazine appears to present these reports factually, quoting pilots and officials, and highlighting the puzzling nature of these phenomena. The editorial stance seems to be one of serious reporting on UFO sightings, acknowledging witness accounts and the lack of conventional explanations for many of the observed events. The issue emphasizes the global nature of these sightings and the attention they are drawing from aviation authorities and the public.