Australian Flying Saucer Review - 1964 10 - no 2 VFSRS

Magazine Overview

Title: AUSTRALIAN flying saucer REVIEW
Issue: No. 2, Victorian Edition
Date: October, 1964
Publisher: Victorian Flying Saucer Research Society
Price: 3/6 (Aust.)

This issue of the Australian Flying Saucer Review (Victorian Edition) is a non-profit, educational publication dedicated to collating and disseminating information about flying saucers and Unidentified Flying Objects (UFO's).

Editorial

The editorial discusses the publication of NICAP's "The UFO Evidence," calling it a monumental and convincing body of evidence that reinforces the belief that Earth is being visited by intelligent extraterrestrial spacecraft. It criticizes the U.S. Air Force's dismissive explanations of UFO sightings, asserting that the public has a right to know what officials have discovered. The editorial highlights the vast amount of research compiled by NICAP and urges readers to write to their Senators and Congressmen to push for a Congressional hearing, suggesting that a lack of investigation would be a public scandal.

Publication by NICAP of "The UFO Evidence"

This section reviews "The UFO Evidence," published by the National Investigations Committee On Aerial Phenomena (NICAP) in May 1964. The reviewer describes it as a sober, authoritative, and staggering account of everything known about UFO's, comprising 183 large, quarto-size pages. The publication aims to bring about a Congressional hearing on the subject. The review emphasizes that the evidence is fact-checked and double-checked, with no speculation or conjecture. It calls for an open hearing at the highest official level to clarify the matter, suggesting that if the U.S. Air Force and other government bodies possess evidence of extraterrestrial visitation and have kept it secret, they have much to account for.

The review also addresses the "lunatic fringe" of contactees and those who exploit the UFO subject for self-enrichment. It commends NICAP for thoroughly investigating claims of contactees and finding no evidence to support them, while acknowledging that meetings with spacemen are not impossible. The article argues that the controversy and publicity surrounding crackpot UFO groups lead unthinking skeptics to dismiss all UFO reports, a notion refuted by the document's evidence.

Officialdom and the Flying Saucer

By Paul Norman

This article questions why officialdom maintains a "cover-up policy" regarding flying saucers, despite governments engaging in research and labeling them UFO's. It provides several examples of official explanations for sightings that are deemed illogical or absurd, such as explaining objects sighted by radar and visually as "The Planet Jupiter," or attributing sightings to "light from welder's torch" or "flood lights on a farmer's barn" when no such sources were present. The author criticizes the Air Force's ability to "maneuver the celestial bodies at will" through their explanations. The article notes that commercial air line pilots are now silenced by threats of fine and imprisonment for reporting sightings, leading to a reported decline in reports, which the author suggests is a direct result of this suppression.

A Fierce New Look at Unidentified Flying Objects

By Paul Norman

This article explores the idea that flying saucers are gravity-powered space ships, a concept long proposed by UFO researchers. It highlights recent discoveries by astronomers Fred Hoyle and Vishnu Norikor concerning quasars, suggesting that if these stars are gravity-powered, understanding gravity properly is crucial. Hoyle's suggestion that Einstein's formula for gravity could be adapted to describe anti-gravity by changing a sign is presented as a significant clue. The article contrasts this with the "impossibilities" proclaimed by orthodoxy regarding UFO performance, such as sudden stops and hovering. It draws parallels between natural phenomena and human inventions, suggesting that the gravitational field of flying saucers might also be a duplication of nature. The changing colors of UFOs are explained by simple laws of vision.

The article also touches upon the theory of artificially created gravitational fields, which could explain the maneuverability of UFOs, their interference with electronics, and changes in color. It references Professor Menzel's explanation of car ignitions stalling due to a "mirage" and "dampness" as an example of an implausible official explanation.

Science Fiction and UFOs

This section examines the relationship between science fiction readers/writers and the UFO phenomenon. It posits that a belief in extraterrestrial visitation requires an open and unfettered mind, contrasting this with the "philistine" fear of the unknown. The author suggests that science fiction readers and writers often scoff at UFO believers, possibly due to a fear of being associated with "lunatic fringe" elements or losing readership. However, the article argues that both fields are often maligned and that an interest in one naturally leads to an interest in the other.

It then discusses the views of two prominent British science fiction writers:

• Eric Frank Russell: Praised for his succinct accounts of the UFO mystery, Russell believes that many sightings are inexplicable and represent alien space travellers. His work is noted for debunking "so-called saucer 'experts'" and "bogus saucer writers."
• Arthur C. Clarke: A renowned writer, Clarke has seen several UFOs but has explained them all to his own satisfaction, attributing them to natural phenomena like seagulls reflecting sunlight or gas escaping from factory chimneys. He also suggests that some sightings might be explained by magnetohydrodynamics and the strange shapes of auroras.

The article also mentions J. G. Ballad's science fiction story "The Encounter," which is based on the experiences of George Adamski, suggesting that even within science fiction, there is curiosity about the reality of such purported experiences.

Book Reviews

• "The Sky People" by Brinsley Le Poer Trench: This book is described as a scholarly work that suggests ancient gods and biblical angels were visitors from outer space. It posits that Earth is undergoing a critical period and that extraterrestrial visitors are returning. The reviewer found it enjoyable and thought-provoking, particularly for those with unconventional views.
• "The Flying Saucer" by Bernard Newman: This review discusses a work of fiction published in 1948. The novel is based on a hoax of "gigantic proportions" conceived to unite the world against a common enemy (Martians). The reviewer notes that Newman likely did not believe in UFO reports, using them as a plot device to capitalize on public interest. The review concludes by drawing a parallel between Newman's fictional hoax and what the author terms "The Great Flying Saucer Hoax" perpetrated by governments who deny the existence of UFOs while knowing they do exist.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the evidence for UFOs, the perceived government cover-up of information, and the scientific and skeptical explanations for sightings. The publication strongly advocates for the reality of UFOs as extraterrestrial craft and criticizes officialdom for its dismissive attitude and lack of transparency. There is a clear stance against "contacteeism" and "crackpotism," focusing instead on the collection and dissemination of credible evidence. The issue also explores the intersection of UFO phenomena with science fiction, suggesting a shared imaginative and open-minded approach is required for both.

This issue of "UFO" magazine, identified as issue number 17 and potentially volume 1, with a raw date of September and October, 1963, focuses on the G-field theory as an explanation for Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs). The magazine is published by the "Sightings Investigation Officer" and appears to be Australian in origin.

The G-Field Explanation

The primary article delves into the "G-field explanation" for UFO phenomena. It posits that the G-field of a flying saucer is variable and strong enough to influence light waves, thereby explaining gravity control and color changes observed in these objects. The theory also suggests that the G-field can induce a positive electrical charge on the craft's hull when moving at high speeds through the atmosphere, creating a vacuum band that reduces friction and allows the craft to withstand high velocities. This also explains why sound, which requires a medium to travel, is not typically heard from these objects, although a low humming noise is sometimes reported when UFOs are hovering or moving slowly.

The G-field is also presented as an explanation for the cloud-like appearance of UFOs, suggesting it can hold mist, vapor, smoke, and dust to the craft's surface, particularly when flying slowly or low to the ground. This phenomenon was reportedly observed by drivers near Wonthaggi.

Furthermore, the G-field explanation is linked to radio and television interference. The magazine cites instances around Wonthaggi and South Dudley on September 19, 1963, where UFOs in the vicinity caused significant malfunctions in TV sets, including white screens, grey screens, streaky screens with lines, or dual images. Radio and television are noted as typically being the first devices affected.

Objects demonstrating these manifestations have reportedly occurred within a hundred-mile radius of Melbourne in the preceding ten months. The most recent sighting mentioned was on June 12, 1964, reported in the Free Press. Sightings in the Wonthaggi area were covered by The Sun and the Wonthaggi Express in September and October 1963. The magazine asserts that similar sightings are occurring globally.

Despite these occurrences, the article criticizes the scientific world for remaining in "deep dogmatic slumber." It notes that while "orthodox scientists" initially scoffed at the G-field explanation, its adoption by figures like Dr. Hermann Oberth, the father of modern rocketry, has begun to change their attitudes. The article draws a parallel to Einstein's theory, suggesting that even established scientific paradigms require significant shifts to be accepted.

The text emphasizes that orthodox science is only recently acknowledging the vast number of planets and the high probability of extraterrestrial life. It argues that intelligent life would not remain inactive unless hindered by dogmatism. The responsibility is placed on serious research groups, open-minded scientists, astronomers, and professionals to collaborate and investigate UFOs as the "twentieth century's greatest mystery."

Hallam Sighting

A specific incident, the "Hallam Sighting" on June 12, 1964, at 5:55 p.m., is detailed. This sighting occurred at Hallam, approximately 25 miles east of Melbourne. Five witnesses in two cars observed a stationary red light about 40 degrees above the horizon while traveling along Dandenong Road. Upon turning onto Hallam Road, the light remained visible, prompting the occupants of the first car to stop. Initially, they thought the light was supported by a tower. However, a few minutes later, the light accelerated abruptly and moved eastward. At this point, an outline became discernible. One witness described the object as "like a coin on its side," while another noted it was slightly domed on top and flat underneath. The brilliant red light was at the front, with a pale yellow light at the rear. The object was estimated to be "about the same size as a Viscount airliner" and disappeared towards Melbourne at a speed "greater than a Jet." No noise or physiological effects were reported.

Evaluation of Hallam Sighting

Geoffrey S. Rumpf, Sightings Investigation Officer, evaluates the Hallam sighting, providing points to support its validity:

• (a) The parents of the principal witnesses, Mr. Preston and Miss Stevenson, who were skeptical of UFOs themselves, believed their children's reports to be factual.
• (b) Minor differences in the witnesses' reports were seen as indicative of authenticity rather than fabrication.
• (c) The driver of the second car, who saw the red light but did not stop, was unwilling to be interviewed and had reportedly suffered embarrassment after the newspaper story about the sighting.
• (d) Having personally interviewed the principal witnesses, Rumpf expressed no doubt that the reported UFO observations took place.

Rumpf suggests that the UFO's interest in the area might be related to the main transmission lines from the Morwell-Yallourn-Hazelwood power generating complex, which supply most of Melbourne's power. He hypothesizes, in line with theories by Coral Lorenzen of A.P.R.O., that UFOs may be conducting systematic reconnaissance of terrestrial power and water supplies, citing similar cases from 1959 and earlier.

Ballarat Conference

The Ballarat Astronomical Society is planning a UFO gathering for the following year, with participation expected from research groups in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, and Brisbane. The meeting is scheduled for the last Saturday in February to coincide with the Begonia Festival. The Astronomical Society will organize a week-long display of instruments and projects. The Saturday will be dedicated to UFOs, with the conference opening at the Ballarat Observatory in the afternoon, followed by social gatherings, slide presentations, papers, and discussions in the city library in the evening.

Cover Design

Following critical response to a "rather drab" first cover, a decision was made to adopt a more eye-catching design. The magazine thanks Mr. M. P. Gellert for his contribution to the new cover design.

Personal News

Miss Dorothy Gillman, a committee-woman, was married to Mr. Graham Farmer on September 24th. The magazine extends wishes for their happiness.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the G-field theory as a scientific explanation for UFO phenomena, detailed accounts of specific sightings (particularly the Hallam incident and those near Wonthaggi), and a critique of the mainstream scientific community's reluctance to engage with UFO research. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rigorous investigation and open-mindedness towards UFOs, advocating for a scientific approach to solving what it terms the "twentieth century's greatest mystery."