Australian Flying Saucer Review - 1961 07 - no 5

Magazine Overview

Title: FLYING SAUCER Review
Issue: 5
Date: July, 1961
Publisher: Australian
Type: Non-Profit Educational Publication

This issue of the Australian FLYING SAUCER Review, published in July 1961, presents a collection of articles and reports concerning UFO sightings, investigations, and theories about extraterrestrial life, with a particular focus on Mars.

Editorial

The editorial section reflects on the momentous events of the year, including Russia and America's advancements in space travel, and posits that manned rockets will soon travel to Venus and Mars. It raises the question of life on these worlds, with some scientists affirming the possibility. The issue features an article by astronomer Dr. F. Siegel, who claims the moons of Mars are artificial space platforms built a century ago, suggesting that Martians have not vanished. The editorial argues that if a higher civilization exists on Mars, unexplained 'flying saucer' sightings could be visitors from that planet. It criticizes over-scepticism from scientists and officials who are 'out of step with reality,' contrasting it with the optimism of scientists like Tsiolkovsky.

The magazine aims to review UFO news in Australia and notes a delay in publication due to a lack of recent exciting events in the country. However, it is now pleased to present a UFO photo and sketch from New South Wales, a photograph from Queensland, and a detailed account of an alleged landing of a mystery craft near Albury, N.S.W.

Key Articles and Reports

US Admiral's Statement on Flying Saucers

Covering the front page, a report from Wellington, N.Z., quotes Rear-Admiral Dufek stating that intelligent creatures from Venus or other planets might be considered possible, and that flying saucers could be manned by such beings. This statement was made on Wednesday, and the article highlights the possibility of 'vehicles' from outer space reaching Earth.

British Radar and Strange Objects

Another front-page report from London, dated Friday, indicates that the R.A.F. was asked to investigate mysterious yellow objects seen hovering over London. The article also mentions a 'scientist' watching 'brilliant' flying saucers stall autos in New Mexico and a radar order from the Air Ministry concerning 'thousands' of 'saucers' over Florence.

Albury UFO Landing Investigation

An article titled "UFO LANDING?" details an investigation by the Australian FLYING SAUCER Review into an alleged landing of a mystery craft near Albury, N.S.W. The 'Albury Border Morning Mail' reported on March 16, 1961, about a sighting titled "SAW SPACE SHIP HERE?". The investigation team, including Co-Editor Peter Norris, examined the site and questioned witnesses. Mr. F. Reynolds of Young Street, Albury, reported seeing a phenomenon with his son on a Friday night. He described a 'caravan' with a red light and a fire, with about four persons moving between them. He observed the entire unit move sideways in a 'jerking manner.' The flame was not constant. The next morning, the area showed no unusual markings or traces of the fire. Other witnesses reported seeing peculiar lights, including a yellow light moving east and a peculiar light like fine rain changing from red to pink. Mr. E. Staff reported seeing an object that changed colors and moved rapidly, emitting jet-like flames.

Air Force Whitewashing of Sky Object Reports

Reverend Lionel Browning claims the Air Force was trying to 'whitewash' reports of flying objects in the sky above Cressy in October 1960. He stated that the Air Force's explanation of his sighting as a 'moon rise associated with meteorological conditions' was an attempt to 'completely whitewash the matter.' Browning presented his report to the Air Force, which he felt was not adequately investigated. He mentioned that a woman and her daughter saw a cigar-shaped object, and that Air Force investigators advised them not to talk about it, which Browning interpreted as a cover-up. He dismissed the Air Force's explanation, stating that there was no cloud or scud when he saw the objects, and the mountain was not the backdrop. He also noted that the Air Force's report contradicted a letter from the Minister for Air, which stated that an investigation was ordered when natural phenomena could not explain sightings. The Victorian Flying Saucer Research Society expressed interest in the case.

Picture of Sky Object Puzzles Experts

This section reports on a photograph taken by naval rating Stephen King near Gundagai, N.S.W., of a strange object glowing with bluish light. The object was observed for over two hours and was described as not being a planet, the moon, a weather balloon, or a 'stooging' aircraft. The photograph, when developed, showed three separate glowing areas of strange shapes. A professional photographer examined the negative under a microscope and confirmed the presence of a generally circular shape with a 'nose' effect. The Assistant N.S.W. Government Astronomer, Mr. Robertson, stated he could not explain it. A Goulburn man, Ken McClelland, who had been studying a similar object for 12 months, described it as iridescent white, exuding 'a green vapour light with a purplish tinge from the rear,' and flying at an altitude of 30,000 to 40,000 feet. Other Goulburn residents also reported sightings. Separately, a photograph taken in Cairns shows an object described as 'an oval-shaped body glowing bright red, with three shining white triangular fins,' observed through a telescope.

Intelligence on Mars?

This feature article, by Dr. Felix Siegel, a Moscow astronomer, discusses the possibility of life on Mars. Siegel claims that the satellites of Mars are artificial, built 100 years ago, and that 'The Martians have not vanished.' The article notes that Soviet and overseas scientists acknowledge the question of life on Mars as an important scientific problem. Academicians like N.P. Barabashov, V.V.Sharonov, and H.H.Sitinskaya acknowledge the possibility of intelligent life on Mars. The article touches upon the work of G.A. Tikhov and Slipher in astrobiology. It discusses the evolution of life, suggesting that 'thinking, rational beings' must evolve. The article highlights research indicating that Martian 'seas' have optical properties similar to Earth plants in severe climates. It also explores the concept of 'Martian canals,' suggesting they are part of an artificial irrigation system connected to the polar caps, vitalizing the planet. The article posits that if intelligent beings existed on Mars, they would have overcome natural forces. It also considers how Martians might detect life on Earth, noting the difficulty due to Earth's atmosphere and the insignificance of artificial satellites on a cosmic scale.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of the Australian FLYING SAUCER Review strongly advocates for the serious consideration of UFO phenomena and the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence. The editorial stance is one of open-minded inquiry, challenging what it perceives as excessive skepticism from mainstream science and official bodies. The magazine actively promotes the idea that UFO sightings are not mere hallucinations or misidentifications but warrant thorough investigation. The articles present witness testimonies, photographic evidence, and scientific speculation, particularly concerning the potential for life on Mars and the nature of its geological features. The theme of potential government cover-ups, as highlighted in the Cressy report, is also a recurring concern, suggesting a deliberate effort to suppress information about these phenomena. The publication positions itself as an educational resource dedicated to exploring these controversial topics without prejudice.

This issue of "U.F.O. INVESTIGATION" from June 1961, published by the U.F.O. Investigation Centre in Australia, delves into various aspects of unidentified flying objects and potential extraterrestrial life. The cover features a striking illustration of a UFO, setting the tone for the articles within. The publication aims to explore mysteries of the sky and ancient accounts of aerial phenomena.

The Artificial Satellites of Mars

The issue begins by examining the canals of Mars, suggesting they are evidence of an intelligent, harmonious Martian civilization. It then focuses on Mars's tiny satellites, Phobos and Deimos, proposing they are artificial constructions rather than natural bodies. The author, referencing I.S. Shklovsky's view of them as ancient, dead monuments, counters that they appeared recently, possibly between 1862 and 1877, citing their discovery by astronomers like Herschel and Lasselle, who had not seen them previously. The argument is further supported by the idea that artificial satellites would have been destroyed by micro-meteorites over millions of years, implying Phobos and Deimos are much younger. The seasonal changes of the Martian canals are also presented as evidence of an active, colossal irrigation system still functioning.

Spots and Flashes on Mars

Further observations of Mars include the discovery of a new green spot, the size of Ukraine, named the Laocoon Knot, which has been darkening annually and showing increasing vegetation. Additionally, strange brilliant flashes followed by tiny clouds, lasting a few minutes or seconds, have been observed periodically since 1937. The issue also reports on a significant event on December 9, 1949, when Japanese astronomer Tsuneo Saheki witnessed a gigantic explosion on Mars, described as an artificial atomic explosion more powerful than the H-bomb, causing a brilliant glow and a large cloud.

Dramatic Sky Scene

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to eyewitness accounts of UFOs. One article details the experience of five men from a lamb-marking party near Toompang, Australia, who witnessed a large, stationary object from which smaller, V-shaped objects departed and returned. The witnesses, described as reliable and unimaginative, were interviewed separately, and their stories corroborated each other, ruling out optical illusions. Another report covers a sighting near Wyalong, Australia, where a silver sphere was observed.

Mystery Object Over U.K. City

On June 19, 1961, a large unidentified flying object was reported hovering over Exeter, Devon, UK. It was described as glistening and stationary or moving very slowly, with an estimated height of 53 miles. The Exeter Airport manager, Wing-Commander R. J. B. Pearse, noted its unusual characteristics.

Atomic Radio

A brief report from Moscow discusses the potential of atomic radio stations to revolutionize communications engineering, with Soviet scientist Prof. Lev Artsimovich suggesting that each atom constitutes a tiny radio station capable of transmitting powerful beams of electromagnetic light waves over vast distances.

UFO Sightings in Two States

This section compiles reports from Australia. At least five men reported seeing 'saucers' near Young, and about 85 Queensland townspeople claimed to have seen a silver-red sphere performing aerobatics near Millaa Millaa. An R.A.A.F. plane attempted to chase the object near Young. The Queensland sighting was initially speculated to be the planet Venus, but no definitive explanation was provided.

Reports Two Men Saw 'Huge Rocket'

Three similar reports from Brisbane, Australia, describe an object crashing to earth near Capalaba on a Friday. The descriptions of a bright red object with a long red tail matched previous sightings. The Brisbane Weather Bureau could not identify it as a fireball or weather balloon, suggesting it might have been a large meteorite.

Devonport Object

Two residents of Devonport, Tasmania, reported seeing a strange object over the sea on Thursday morning. Described as a long, thin, white cloud shaped like a pencil, it moved slowly against the wind and was later observed through binoculars to resemble a fluorescent light tube. The object disappeared slowly over the sea, leaving the witnesses puzzled.

Metallic Light Seen in Sky

A Longford man reported seeing a metallic green light in the sky south of Woodbury, which grew brighter and disappeared with a loud explosion. Similar sightings of lights and explosions were reported near New Norfolk and Jericho.

U.K., Soviet Experts Hear Mystery Signals From Space

This article details a joint space operation between Britain and Russia to find a lost Soviet rocket to Venus. Mysterious signals were picked up at Jodrell Bank while scientists attempted to trace the rocket, which was over 62 million miles away. The experiment aimed to see if signals could be received from the rocket, launched in February, by switching on its remote control transmitter.

Stir Over 'Star'

An unidentified object, described as a large, flickering star, was observed over Windang, Australia. It moved upwards, changed colors from orange to green and red, and appeared to be a 'very large flickering star' that moved backwards and forwards, expanding and changing colors.

Team Effort to Find Lost Rocket to Venus

This piece reiterates the joint effort by Russia and Britain to locate the lost Soviet rocket to Venus. The rocket, believed to be 62 million miles from Earth, was the subject of a final bid to find it. Professor Sir Bernard Lovell reported picking up signals that could be from the lost rocket.

Puzzle From the Sky

A piece of metal that fell from the skies on March 24 near Oamaru, New Zealand, mystified geologists. The metal burned the property owner's fingers and burned through a handkerchief. Tests in New Zealand failed to identify it, and it was sent to the United States for further analysis. The object was described as a small cube of reddish-brown color.

Another Jodrell Bank 'Scope' for Britain

Britain announced plans to build a new radio-telescope for space research at Crowthorne, Berkshire, at a cost of £250,000. This new instrument would be fully steerable, have high accuracy, and a faster tracking speed than the existing unit at Jodrell Bank.

Skyships of Old

This article explores ancient myths and legends that describe aerial vehicles and visits from 'heavenly beings'. The Indian epics Ramayana and Mahabarata are cited, describing 'vimanas' as controlled aerial vehicles. References to 'Sanakadikas' and 'Siddhas' from the 'Space Dimensions' suggest possible visits from other planets. Ancient Chinese folklore also speaks of aviators and aerial machines, and Taoist records mention beings traveling between planets.

Visitors From Other Worlds

This section discusses the theory that ancient scriptures, referring to gods and angels, might actually contain accounts of spacemen visiting Earth. It also highlights initiatives in Italy and Belgium in 1954 to form committees to welcome potential space visitors.

Modern Manners for Spacemen: Be Nice To A Martian

Thirty Belgian professionals and businessmen formed a committee in Brussels to welcome Martians, aiming to prevent war and establish interplanetary trade. Their suggestions included approaching Martians with signs of peace, informing authorities only if hostility is shown, and offering a specific meal and cultural experiences. The committee also considered the question of 'mixed marriage' between Martians and Belgians.

Making Friends in High Places

In Rome, 50 young Romans formed 'The Friends of Mars' club, appointing a committee to receive Martians and inviting the Italian government to consider an alliance with Mars to increase international prestige and open new economic development fields.

Notable Books for U.F.O. Libraries

A list of books available from 'The Flying Saucer Bookshop' in Auckland, New Zealand, is provided, covering topics such as flying saucers, Atlantis, Mu, reincarnation, and prophecies of Nostradamus.

Flying Saucer in Wake of Orbiting Atlas

Reports of flying saucers appearing in the skies are noted, coinciding with the launch of America's four-and-one satellite. This section includes a brief mention of an air mystery over Canada and a report from Fiji about unidentified aircraft.

U.S. Pilot's Encounter

A U.S. airline pilot reported seeing an 'unidentified flying aircraft' in front of his plane, described as glowing brightly and performing a series of violent maneuvers.

Strange Object Puzzles Britain

British R.A.F. radar stations were alerted to search for unidentified objects. Reports from London describe flying saucers bathed in light and carrying 'illuminated men', originating from New Guinea. The article also mentions a farmer's encounter with a strange object and a pilot's description of a UFO.

Men Waved

This brief report mentions flying saucers bathed in light and carrying 'illuminated men', originating from New Guinea.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the potential for intelligent life on Mars, the nature and origin of UFOs, and the interpretation of ancient myths as evidence of extraterrestrial contact. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various theories and eyewitness accounts without definitive conclusions, encouraging readers to consider the possibilities of advanced civilizations and visitors from space. There is a consistent effort to link modern UFO phenomena with ancient accounts and to explore the implications of potential contact.