Australian Saucer Record - Vol 03 No 03 - 1957 INCOMPLETE

Magazine Overview

This issue of the AUSTRALIAN SAUCER RECORD, Volume 3, Number 3, from the 3rd Quarter of 1957, is the official organ of the Australian Flying Saucer Research Society. It is priced at 2/- and edited by F.P. Stone.

Editorial: How much. Do we. Know?

The editorial reflects on the transformative nature of 20th-century science, where established laws are frequently revised or overturned by new discoveries. It highlights how fields like astronomy, electronics, and medicine have been revolutionized, citing Einstein's theories and the impact of psychosomatic research. The editor argues that this scientific progress should foster open-mindedness towards subjects like UFOs, suggesting that these phenomena might represent new, as yet undiscovered, laws of science. The propulsion of UFO craft is presented as an example, hinting at advanced electronics beyond current human comprehension. The editorial draws a parallel to experiments at near absolute zero temperature, where familiar laws of physics seem to be transcended, leading to phenomena like continuous electrical current flow in a wire even when unplugged. This is presented as evidence that our current scientific understanding is limited and that a humble approach is necessary to learn from these 'greater laws'. The editor concludes with a quote from the greatest teacher, emphasizing the need to become like children to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.

Japanese News

This section, an overseas edition and the official organ of the FLYING SAUCER RESEARCH GROUP OF JAPAN, reports on a cigar-shaped object seen over Tokyo by three students and two bicyclists. The object, estimated to be 20-30 cm long at a distance of approximately 1,000 meters, hovered, moved slowly, and then climbed vertically into the clouds. It was initially sighted at an altitude of up to 40,000 meters.

Important UFO Chronology in Japan

A comprehensive list of UFO sightings from ancient Japanese historical books is provided:

• 639 AD (March 24): A large meteor with thunder-like sound and a shock blast.
• 776 AD (Feb 29): A football-sized mystery light.
• 811 AD (Sept 3): Two star-like mystery lights with flutter movements.
• 1015 AD (Aug 23): Two big stars (mother ship?) observed, followed by two smaller stars (remote controlled saucers).
• 1071 AD (March 8): A mystery light observed.
• 1071 AD (April 19): A big mystery light travelled from east to west.
• 1094 AD (Jan 22): A bright-metal object seen shortly before sunset.
• 1096 AD (July-Aug): More than 10 star-like mystery lights in formation, about 1-40m long.
• 1105 AD (Feb 15): A mystery bright light moved into the moon.
• 1129 AD (Feb 22): Ball of fire observed.
• 1133 AD (Aug 12): A big silvery object watched by thousands, descending from the sky.
• 1138 AD (June 10): A big mystery bright light observed.
• 1233 AD (June 21): A mystery light travelled to the east.
• 1294 AD (Aug 3): A doughnut-shaped mystery light (red) travelled north.
• 1339 AD (Aug-Sept): A large blue glow with a red core, cloud-like object with a trail of smoke.
• 1349 AD (July 18): Two mystery objects seen in acrobatic flights, flashing lights.
• 1366 AD (Oct 26): A mystery bright light observed in bad weather.
• 1419 AD (June 12): A cigar-shaped long object watched by many people.
• 1422 AD (July 17): A Japanese sword-like long object dived to the ground, causing a shock blast.
• 1423 AD (Oct-Nov): Two objects combined, then one crashed and burned for three hours.
• 1431 AD (Oct 18): A big tadpole-shaped mystery object observed.
• 1431 AD (Jan 9): A mysterious bright light with a buzz.
• 1431 AD (Aug 6): A big orange glowing mystery light observed.
• 1432 AD (Oct 5): A long mystery object with an orange trail.
• 1479: Three mystery objects seen, then two combined into one.
• 1458 AD (Feb 15): A big bright mystery light, same size as the moon.
• 1468 AD (March 8): A mystery object seen with a vibrating sound.
• 1468 AD (April 7): Three lights in formation travelling south to north.
• 1614 AD (March 4): A square-shaped mystery object seen over Kinki area.
• 1666 AD (May 26): A long torpedo-like mystery object seen over Edo (old Tokyo), about 5m long.
• 1692 AD (May 6): Three mystery objects seen in formation over Edo.
• 1745: A mystery object hovered over Sakata.
• 1797 AD (Oct 14): Spiders web-like mysterious objects fell in Osaka, possibly 'Angel hair'.

Adamski's Space Peoples Message

A Japanese University Student in Tokyo reportedly answered Adamski's message, as did a Korean boy, though the latter is noted as a pen friend of Adamski's.

Arend Roland Comet Observed

Scientists at the Higashiyama Astronomical Observatory in Nagoya observed the Arend-Roland comet on April 24th. It was described as the brightest comet in a decade. Astronomers in Tokyo also observed it on April 29th.

Mysterious Lights Over Hokkaido, Northern Japan

Mrs Keido Yoshida and Miss Sumie Nakanishi observed two mysterious lights over Sapporo on February 24th. The lights changed color from white to red to orange, moved slowly at an estimated height of 4,000 ft, and made no sound. Similar reports were received by police. Another report described a bright green light with an orange trail seen over Choshi City, Ghiba Prefecture, observed for 10 seconds.

Japanese form new U.F.O. Group

A new association, the "Modern Space Flight Assn," has been formed in Osaka. The Director is June-ichi Takanashi, and Yuuke Matsumurs heads the group, which aims to cooperate with this new organization.

Will. The Earth Turn

Professor Axel Hallenborg warns of the dangers of continued atomic explosions, suggesting that the magnetic North Pole could transpose over Siberia and North America. He believes the North Pole has become heavier than the South Pole, which could lead to a change in the Earth's axis. Radioactive clouds are reportedly sucked to the North Pole by a concentric air current.

The Swedish Ghost Rockets

This section discusses the "Flying Saucer News" Spring issue of 1955, which addressed the many UFOs seen over Scandinavia in the summer of 1945, when the term 'Flying Saucers' was not yet in use. These were initially assumed to be Russian controlled projectiles. A summary of press reports from May-September 1945 indicates over 1,000 official observations and an estimated 2,000 unofficial ones. The saucers were often seen flying from the far North of Sweden in a north-westerly direction, sometimes over Finland, or from east to west over Norway, Denmark, and Greece.

Sketchy Descriptions: Arrow or cigar-shaped, no wings, orange or green flames/smoke from exhaust, flames or light at the front. Some reports mentioned a whistling sound when flying low.

Course: Horizontal.

Speed: Generally sub-sonic, approximately 400 Mph; maximum estimate 1,000 Mph.

Height: Varying from 1,000-3,000 ft, maximum 12,000 ft.

Reports mentioned explosions with intense white light but no fragments. Radar observations at Vaxholm detected 'blips' from the Peenemunde direction. The Swedish Premier, Mr Hansson, stated in August 1946 that nothing was known of the nature or origin of the rockets. The Swedish Defence Staff attributed most observations to atmospheric phenomena or faintness. However, it was admitted that some rocket-like objects of unknown nature were observed.

German Origin?: While Germany was advanced in 'controlled projectiles', their publications did not resemble the observed objects.

Russian Origin?: Less probable, as Russia did not have controlled projectiles or jet planes in 1945. They later copied V-1 and V-2, but improved versions were not like UFOs. The Soviet paper "New Times" denied Russian origin.

Aboriginal Carvings. More Evidence

This article explores the potential link between Aboriginal rock carvings at Woomera and ancient saucer visitations. It presents further evidence, noting the similarity between the drawings and verbal descriptions of strange creatures seen by observers, particularly the lack of a mouth. The society neither accepts nor rejects these claims but files them for further evidence. Jan L. Idriess's book "The Vanished People" and the Australian Museum Magazine of March 1952 are cited for similar carvings found in the Kimberley area. These carvings are described as one of Australia's greatest mysteries, dating back thousands of years. The drawings, found in caves, are unique and depict figures with 'haloes' or head dresses resembling sun rays, and apparel like skirts or swarthing. The colors used are red, white, yellow, and black. The primary significance of the 'great mouthless anthropomorphs' (Wondjina) is their power related to rain and regeneration. The article suggests these beings are responsible for human baby spirits and the increase of natural species, and are associated with 'UNGUD', the Rainbow Serpent. The artist's careful detail and the omission of mouths are highlighted as significant, possibly conveying a real personage, vision, or figment of imagination. The article concludes by mentioning an upcoming expedition to South Australia to contact the hitherto untouched Bindaboo tribe, hoping for more discoveries of strange stories and rock carvings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of unexplained aerial phenomena (UFOs), the questioning of established scientific paradigms, and the investigation of ancient mysteries and their potential connection to modern sightings. The editorial stance is one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging readers and scientists alike to consider possibilities beyond current understanding, while maintaining a policy of neither accepting nor rejecting claims without sufficient evidence. There is a strong emphasis on the limitations of human knowledge and the need for humility in the face of the unknown.

Title: AUSTRALIAN SAUCER RECORD
Issue: Vol. 1, No. 11
Date: August 1957

This issue of the Australian Saucer Record provides a comprehensive look at UFO sightings and related phenomena reported internationally, with a particular focus on events surrounding International Flying Saucer Day. The magazine compiles witness accounts, press reports, and investigations, aiming to shed light on unexplained aerial phenomena.

International Flying Saucer Day Comments

The editorial notes that International Flying Saucer Day in South Australia was hampered by poor visibility due to a clouded sky. Despite this, there was significant cooperation from the daily press and National radio. The main importance of these designated days, the editors explain, is not to predetermine that visitors will make a special call, but rather to test the organizational machinery and public awareness for 'sky watching.' It also serves as a means to evaluate the resources and teamwork of the society's members.

While no specific reports from the day itself are detailed, the following day brought a notable case for consideration. Mr. Jack Ferry and his wife, while in their garden around 1:00 PM, observed a strange object. It was described as large and dark, without tail, wings, or undercarriage, maneuvering in figures of eight. The object was visible for approximately 10 to 15 minutes and was estimated to be about the size of a 'Viscount' aircraft. In the foreground, they had also noticed a Gypsy Moth and a Tiger aircraft practicing from the Civil Aviation field at Parafield. After its observation, the strange object shot away to the Southeast at a moderate speed. Mr. Ferry contacted HQ, and subsequent checks with Aviation centers revealed that the practice aircraft were accounted for, and the only Viscount that had passed over the area had done so about an hour earlier. Both Mr. and Mrs. Ferry confirmed seeing the object, and Mr. Ferry provided a clear outline of its appearance.

Overseas News

This section presents translations from German, Dutch, and Italian journals, detailing international UFO reports:

• Russia: A message from an "8.Fo" (UFO) on August 8, 1955, reportedly disrupted broadcasts from all Radio Stations in Irkutsk, Siberia. The message soberly stated: "Landing in 15 terrestrial years, demolition not intended, defence useless, planning peaceful settlement, exchange possible." Nuclear Scientists, including Professor Sabajev and Dr. Vladiansky, Boruovkin, and Gizabujenkow, explained this as the first authentic message from a UFO.
• Germany: The "Braunsdiweige Zeitung" reported on August 7, 1954, that Norwegian photographer Bjoerunlf took snapshots of a UFO at 4,500 meters during the solar eclipse, using color film. The newspaper "Aftenposten" announced that the 'Flying Saucer' was clearly visible on the film.
• Japan: The "Official Organ of the FLYING SAUCER RESEARCH GROUP IN JAPAN" reported a "DELTA) SHAPED-OBJECT" seen over downtown Tokyo on January 26, 1957. Mrs. Mutsuko Hara, an infanty school teacher, along with her friends, saw a large object at about 4:30 PM that spouted luminous yellow-green substance. The object was described as approximately two or three times the diameter of the moon and was seen climbing in a southeast to east direction without sound. The observation lasted about 10 seconds. Mrs. Akiko Ikeda confirmed feeling earth rumblings during the same time.
• Japan: Four mysterious big shock blasts occurred in the Yokohama-Yokosuka area on February 21st. The Police HQ and Maritime Safety Board investigated and announced it was like a sonic boom, but no aircraft were in the air. Later that night, five V-formation saucers were seen over Yokohama City, displaying bright yellow-orange lights. The objects were traveling at about 130 mph, fairly low, and were described as two or three times the size of a tennis ball. Mr. Komaki successfully took pictures of them. The objects disappeared but reappeared around the city for 7 minutes, with no sound.

"Was This A Message from Space? or What is it? Can you decipher it?"

This article presents drawings made by the two sons of a senior member of the society. The elder son, aged 21, drew an Egyptian-like picture, while the younger son drew symbols and diagrams. Neither son had prior knowledge of Egyptian art or had read Adamski's book, and they claim to have acted on an urge without any spiritualistic or telepathic influence, while fully awake. The drawings are presented for comparison with ancient symbols, including Adamski's sandals and South American Indian and Atlantean writings. The article invites reader opinions on whether these are messages, doodles, or something else entirely. The drawings are presented in two parts, with Part 2 potentially needing to be read alongside Part 1 to form a complete image. The younger son's drawing is presented separately but may have a connection. The article notes that these boys had a previous telepathic experience months prior.

WhYalla NEWS

• Country Group Centre: The President and Secretary, along with two other members, visited Whysalla to form a country group centre, appointing Mr. Don Bebidge as the local President and organiser. The visit was successful, with recent and earlier sightings discussed.
• Lecture in Whyalla: On August 3rd, Mr. Fred Stone, National Director and founder of the Australian Flying Saucer Research Society, gave a lecture titled "The Truth About Flying Saucers" to an audience of forty people in Whyalla. Despite an influenza epidemic and cold weather, the lecture generated significant interest.
• Space Craft at Cinemas: Approximately two years prior, Mr. Royce Babidge and Stanley Babidge reported seeing a saucer-type space craft pass behind the screens of open-air theatres in Whysalla. It was described as fast, at an estimated height of forty feet, and visible enough to see cabin portholes. There was no noise, and the event sparked discussion. Similar craft were reportedly seen at Woomera the same night.
• Unusual Phenomena on Fishing Trip: Mr. Don Bebidge recounted a sighting while fishing with Mr. Bill Taylor near Point Lowly. Around 8 PM, he noticed two half-circles of red and green lights curved from the top down, with about nine lights in a row at the top, from which a dirty yellow flame would flare up and die down. He dismissed it as not being ship navigation lights due to their height and number. His friend was not interested.

Four days of sightings in Adelaide

This section details a series of sightings reported in Adelaide, Australia, following a press report in the "Advertiser" on August 30th, 1957:

• August 28th (Wednesday): Three people in Glenelg claimed to have seen a "flying saucer" follow their car between 8:15 and 8:30 PM. The object was described as a quarter of a moon, illuminated, circular, and bright, moving without sound. It was seen to descend near the car before veering off. The Weather Bureau and Dept. of Civil Aviation offered no explanation. An "expert" suggested it was a cloud lit by the moon, but this was disputed.
• August 27th (Tuesday): A woman rising early saw what she described as a half-moon facing backwards in her kitchen window, between 6:30 and 6:45 AM. The object faded after about three seconds, and she stated the moon would not be in that position or have disappeared in that manner.
• August 28th (Wednesday Afternoon): Two women witnessed a strange oval-shaped object stationary in the sky, which moved north, returned several times, and then vanished. It was described as red, then green, and thought to be a helicopter, but without visible rotors or wings.
• August 29th (Thursday): Two sisters saw an object like a "studly top" with a bright light underneath flying low along a road near their house, disappearing into the west after about five minutes.
• August 30th (Friday): Four young people in a car saw a very bright light in the sky moving northwest. It hovered, then returned, described as a bright orange light. They noted it emitted "rays" or "jets of spark like exhausts" from a small round object at the top.

The society investigated these cases, making tape recordings. A significant finding was that while witnesses described the object as resembling the moon setting, official meteorological data indicated the moon set later. The investigations confirmed the Wednesday incident and suggested that something had been in the skies for several days.

Sightings from Here and There

• South African Object (Natal): On December 31st, 1955, at 7:40 PM, Miss V. Thurban and her sister observed a wonderful golden haze lighting up an area beyond their house. A light, more oval than round, became visible, appearing to travel upwards, then descend, turn, and move towards them before disappearing. No rays were emitted. The light's appearance was unusual as it was seen while facing south. The African laundry woman and her friends also witnessed a similar phenomenon, describing it as a tremendous sun rising from over the sea, moving at tremendous speed, and then disappearing. The witnesses felt peaceful vibrations from the light. Similar sightings had occurred previously at Port Shepstone.
• Italy (Corsica): On January 10th, press reports indicated that three people sighted a bright red object flying near a village at about 12 AM. The object was silent, flew close to the ground, then rose to an altitude of 100 meters, changing shape from round to cigar-shaped. It hovered for about 10 minutes before disappearing with a burst of speed. Witnesses estimated its diameter to be 10 meters, and it caused dogs in the village to bark furiously.
• Yericoin West Aust: A letter describes an object seen by Mollie and the Bickford children. It was described as a "big piece of paper up in the sky," revolving slowly, light-colored on one side and dark on the other. It was considered possibly a weather balloon or missile, but classified as unidentified.
• Noon Like Object Puzzles Schoolteacher: Mr. A.J. Millikan reported sighting an object in the E.N.E. on May 26th, 1957, at 2:30 AM. It was described as a rising crescent with an orange-yellow glow, smaller than the moon, and appeared stationary. It was observed for only 2 to 3 seconds. It was mistaken for the moon, but a check confirmed the moon had not risen that early. The drawing provided resembles a crescent moon.
• Wellington, New Zealand: On May 11th, 1957, an elderly lady and a college youth saw an object about 300 ft. in the air traveling southeast. It was shaped like a lampshade, with a bright silvery-gold color. Another object, cigar-shaped, was seen on April 27th, 1957, visible for about four minutes, about five or six miles away.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the widespread nature of UFO sightings across different continents and the persistent efforts of amateur research groups like the Australian Flying Saucer Research Society to document and investigate these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting witness testimonies and reports without definitive conclusions, but encouraging further investigation and reader participation. There is a clear emphasis on the need for systematic observation and data collection, as highlighted by the International Flying Saucer Day initiative. The magazine also touches upon the potential for extraterrestrial communication and the challenges of distinguishing genuine sightings from misidentifications or natural phenomena.

The "AUSTRALIAN SAUCER RECORD" is the official organ of the Australian Flying Saucer Research Society, published at 22 Northcote Street, Kilburn, South Australia. This issue, page 21, focuses on the relationship between the press and UFO reporting, alongside reviews of several books related to the subject.

The Press and Saucer Reports

This section critically examines the media's portrayal of UFO phenomena. The author expresses gratitude to sections of the press that have provided space and cooperation for research but voices strong distrust towards others. These latter sections are accused of distorting facts, ridiculing the subject, and contradicting themselves. The article highlights the importance of carefully choosing which press outlets to approach for information, noting that some are honorable while others are not.

A specific example cited is the "UNDERSTANDING" of Dan Fry. The article recounts an incident at the Giant Rock convention where "LIFE" reporters and photographers allegedly staged a fake flare and saucer sighting. The intention, according to the report, was to make genuine UFO seekers appear foolish. The photograph of this staged event was published in "LIFE" magazine on May 27th, featuring a two-page spread. The author condemns such practices as not uncommon and detrimental to the serious study of UFOs.

The article also touches upon internal issues within the UFO research community, mentioning a case where a "Saucer worker" allegedly faked a photograph to discredit another worker. The author expresses bewilderment at the idea of commending such actions and criticizes the "democracy" preached by some American brethren, suggesting it has "horrible odd twists" when individuals act despicably towards each other.

Book Reviews

The issue includes reviews of several books, acknowledging contributions from D.T. Kenny and "Willigus", as well as technical assistance from Mr. Jack Ferry.

• THE COMING OF THE GREAT WHITE CHIEF by Dorothy Thomas: Described as not strictly a saucer book but one of interest in relation to the American Indians.
• THE TRUTH ABOUT MARS by E.L. Norman: The reviewer notes that readers must form their own acceptance of the facts, and that the author, like others who claim sightings, leaves the reader guessing and contradicts other accounts.
• TWO HIGHS TO FUDMEMBER by Card Adelson: This is recommended as a "must" for F.S. enthusiasts, described as a "true F.S. contact story" that is creditable.
• THE VENUS LANG by [Name illegible, possibly 'Itd Codd']: This is presented as another account of beings on Earth in contact with humans. The review states it is well-written but not convincing enough, noting the inclusion of medical formulae that do not prove anything but seem intended to impress.
• WE COME IN PEACE by Franklin Thomas: This is described as an excellent, logical, and feasible contact story without excessive mysterious elements that might leave the reader guessing.
• SRAGIMON FROID OR FOR by Trevor James (Parts 1 and 2): This treatise is considered one of the most astounding writings on saucers, likely to make readers think. It is suggested that those with real inside experience with saucer work will recognize the writer's accuracy.

Acknowledgements

A comprehensive list of publications and organizations is acknowledged, including "A.P.R.O Bulletin", "Uforum", "Understanding", "Internation News Digest", "F.J. Review", "F.S. Magazine N.Z.", "Plativolo", "Essences of Kosmon", "Japanese F.S. News", "Ouranus", "The Visitor", "Golden Rays", "Little Listening Post", "UFO Critical Bulletin", "The Ufologist", "Infinity", "Lichthore", "International Newscope", "Wectribute", "Centre of the World News", "A.P.R.G. Newreporter", "New Age Newswriter", "Satellite", "N. Jessty Newswriter", "Thy: Kingdom Come", "Cosmic Voice", "Saucerian Bulletin", "C.S.I. Newsletter", "Saucer News", "Doust", "The Silence Group and the Christian", and "N.S.W. UFO Bulletin". The "Le Courrier Interplanetaire" is also acknowledged.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of media coverage of UFOs, the challenges faced by researchers due to sensationalism and misinformation, and the promotion of credible contactee accounts and research. The editorial stance is one of caution regarding the press, a commitment to serious research, and an openness to well-presented contactee narratives, while also expressing concern about internal community integrity and the ethical implications of certain actions within the field.