Australian Saucer Record - Vol 04 No 01 - 1958

Magazine Overview

Title: AUSTRALIAN SAUCER RECORD
Issue: VOL 4, No 1.
Date: FIRST QUARTER 1958
Publisher: AUSTRALIAN FLYING SAUCER RESEARCH SOCIETY
Country: Australia
Price: 2/-

This issue of the Australian Saucer Record, the official organ of the Australian Flying Saucer Research Society, delves into various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, featuring an editorial, personal accounts, and reports on international developments.

Editorial: 'One Sided Judgement'

The editorial, penned by Editor F.P. Stone, expresses frustration with the consistent antagonism shown by some editors of 'Saucer' magazines towards contact stories. It highlights an attack by the editor of 'OURANOUS' in their October 1957 issue, which claimed to have debunked a 'G. Adamski' episode, citing 'J. Moseley' as the main exposer. The editorial argues that 'Ouranous,' being a British magazine, should adhere to British legal ethics by hearing all evidence before passing judgment, rather than readily accepting evidence from individuals like J.M. and A.D. while dismissing G.A.'s claims. The editor suggests that those who dismiss contact stories may be 'one-eyed' and lack an open-minded approach, contrasting this with the society's stance of not accepting or rejecting contact stories outright but waiting for the whole truth.

The editorial further criticizes the notion of a 'True Research' gathering if it merely reiterates existing viewpoints, comparing it unfavorably to meetings of the Russians and NATO that achieve little. It asserts that 'TRUTH WILL OUT' and that only open-minded individuals will perceive it.

Dutchman Receives Telepathic Message

This section details a personal experience of a member of the Dutch Flying Saucer Society, identified as 'Plativolo,' translated by Jan. After reading books by G. Adamski and Cedric Allingham, the individual attempted telepathic contact with supposed flying saucer crews. During the first months of 1956, despite inexperience, they experienced moments where ideas seemed to come from an external source. On April 11th, amidst grey weather, at approximately 12:17 p.m., a clear English phrase was heard internally: "In about twenty minutes you will see a saucer. Go outside." Initially skeptical, viewing it as a wishful dream, the message was later confirmed to be from an external source. The individual stayed inside due to the cold weather.

Later, while at lunch, something compelled them to look out the window, where a strange, lightee object was observed moving slowly towards the North East. The object was described as a sloping ellipse, slightly transparent, with what looked like 'tassells' at the front and back. Its sides were smooth and sharply defined against the blue sky. The sighting lasted about 10 seconds, with no sound. The object had no sails or wings, and its light was difficult to judge due to the lack of clouds. The observer noted workmen nearby also looking at the sky. The belief was formed that it was a Flying Saucer, and that its crews are friendly and willing to manifest their existence to provide people with faith.

Searching for the Fourth Dimension

This segment discusses a group of scholars from the University of California who are studying the theoretical possibility of dimensional observation. They suggest constructing an 'electronic brain' to find the 'real fourth dimension,' which they believe might exist around us, and that mankind, limited in observing depth and space, could be unaware of the true form of things. The 'fourth dimension' is also linked to biological time within the brain, suggesting movements can occur in unseen directions, and that future events could be foreseen.

A new slogan from the U.S.A. is presented: "YOU MUST BE ACTIVE OR BECOME RADIOACTIVE." This is followed by 'Thoughts by the Way' from "F.S. REVIEW." ENG., stating that man can explore the universe but must fulfill certain requirements, and that our way of life may need to change to meet universal standards.

Russia Says They Have Flying Saucers

Published in the "Auckland Star" in October 1957, this article reports that the Soviet Union, which previously scoffed at flying saucers, has now admitted their existence. The popular science monthly "Knowledge is Strength" states that the Soviet Union is using a saucer-type plane capable of vertical ascent and descent. The article includes a sketch by Professor Zon-shain showing a flying saucer alongside a TU 104 and a four-engined turbo jet Ukraina. This is presented as the first indication that Russia is taking flying saucers seriously, contrasting with previous Western reports met with caustic comments. Professor Zonshain reportedly stated that "heavenly spaces are now furrowed by such flying machines." The article also mentions other advanced aircraft types, including a plane without wings, and predicts the appearance of Soviet supersonic airliners in the near future. A translation of the Russian description of a flying disc-shaped aeroplane is provided, detailing how a partial vacuum created on its upper surface propels air downwards, enabling it to rise. Nine underlined Russian words, translated as 'razryasheneeye,' are noted as unknown to the interpreter.

'Saucer Propulsion Discovered?'

This excerpt from "INTERAVIA" VOL XI. NO 5. 1956, discusses research into flight without stress or strain. The writer highlights the work of Townsend T. Brown, an American who has researched gravity for over thirty years and is now conducting electro-gravitics research projects. Brown postulates a relationship between electricity and gravity similar to that between electricity and magnetism, with the condenser being the key link in electro-gravitics. The article notes that years of empirical work lend credence to this hypothesis, suggesting that unexplained UFOs might be vehicles propelled by this technology, though it remains a closely guarded secret.

Boy Sees Space Ship

An article from the Knoxville News Sentinel, sent by correspondent Jack L Fincannon, recounts an incident on November 6, 1957, involving twelve-year-old Everett Clark of Dante, Tennessee. Clark reported seeing a spaceship about 100 yards from his house. He observed two men and two women beside an egg-shaped machine. The men conversed in a German-like language. The people re-entered the machine, which then took off silently and rapidly. The spaceship was described as long and round, with no particular color. Reporters and a photographer found an imprint in the grass, approximately 24 feet long and shaped like a slender egg or fat cigar. Mr. Clark appeared hysterical, and the object seemed larger than the imprint. The reporter expresses disbelief despite the corroborating evidence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of UFO sightings, the interpretation of evidence, the possibility of extraterrestrial contact, and the open-mindedness required to study these phenomena. The editorial stance is one of advocating for a thorough and unbiased investigation of all evidence, criticizing those who prematurely dismiss claims, and emphasizing the importance of considering all sides of a story. The society's position is to remain neutral, neither accepting nor rejecting claims but awaiting definitive proof. The issue also touches upon advanced scientific concepts like the 'fourth dimension' and potential new propulsion systems, linking them to the UFO phenomenon.

This issue of the Australian Saucer Record, dated February 1958, is a collection of articles, news items, and opinions related to Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and related phenomena. It features a mix of scientific speculation, eyewitness accounts, and commentary on government attitudes towards the subject.

German Paper Article: Burkhard Heim's Theory

The issue begins with a translation from the German paper "Neue Illustrierte" regarding the theories of physicist Burkhard Heim. Heim proposes that humans can convert light into power and transform electromagnetic waves directly into gravitational waves. He posits a 'meso-field' between the electromagnetic and gravitational fields, which would allow for a significant increase in speed by directly transforming electromagnetic waves. The energy for this transformation would come from a nuclear splitting process. Heim's hypothesis suggests a practical application for space conquest, allowing spaceships to be propelled by rays available anywhere in space, thus eliminating the need for large amounts of fuel. These ships would also be able to travel outside the normal pathways of planets, avoiding collisions. Furthermore, Heim believes he has found a way to protect occupants from centrifugal force by placing the spaceship into a 'gravitationless knot of waves.' He claims this theory could explain the characteristics of flying saucers and that a trip to Mars could take as little as three hours, requiring only 500 lbs. of radioactive matter. The article notes that Heim, who lost his hands, sight, and hearing in an experiment at the end of World War II, is described as a genius and finances his own research to prevent his discoveries from being used for military purposes. His work is presented as a confirmation of Lieut. Plantier's theory, with Heim reportedly having transformed light into power in his laboratories.

Three Sightings in One Week in Adelaide

This section reports on three UFO sightings in Adelaide during the first week of February 1958:

1. February 4th: A white bluish light was observed over the sea, reported as stationary. The Meteorological Department confirmed it was not a weather balloon.
2. February 5th: A large green cigar-shaped object was seen in the western sky, described by two witnesses as very bright and about nine inches long from their perspective. They stated it was definitely not an aircraft.
3. February 7th: A CSIRO Physicist reported a cone-shaped orange flame at the tail of a large object, slightly larger than a star, which made an droning noise.

Discernment by Don Babbidge

This lengthy editorial piece, contributed by Don Babbidge from Whyalla, reflects on humanity's historical tendency towards egotism, selfishness, and hatred, despite divine teachings. Babbidge argues that the answers to life's problems and secrets have always been available but often ignored or deliberately cast aside by mankind. He criticizes the human tendency to dismiss new ideas, citing Christopher Columbus as an example of someone who was initially ridiculed but later proven right. The article draws parallels between past skepticism towards new discoveries and current skepticism towards UFO phenomena. Babbidge suggests that humanity is progressing towards a stage of 'acute oblivion and desperation' by ignoring signs and warnings. He also touches upon the idea that some individuals possess greater intellect and spiritual insight than others, and that these 'little people' are aware of the potential catastrophic consequences of humanity's actions, while others, the 'big man,' close their eyes to the truth.

Scientists Add Their Opinion

This section presents brief statements from several scientists:

• Dr. Harlow Shapley (Former director of Harvard Observatory) states, "We must accept it as inevitable, that there are other worlds with some kind of thinking beings."
• Dr. Harold C. Urey (Member of International Mars Committee, former commissioner of the Atomic Energy Commission, and head of Chicago University for Nuclear Studies) believes, "It is exceedingly probable that there is other life in the universe more intelligent than ours."
• Frank Halstead (Curator of Darling Observatory, Duluth, USA) states, "Many professional astronomers are convinced that the saucers are interplanetary machines, I believe they come from another solar system but they may be using Mars as a base."

More "Openminded" Official Opinions

This section compiles reports and opinions from official sources, suggesting a growing openness to the UFO subject:

• Air Marshall Sir George Jones (Former R.A.A.F. Chief of Staff) is quoted as having an 'open mind' on flying saucers after witnessing a mysterious object on October 16th, 1957. He and his wife observed a brilliant white light with a shadowy shape moving at approximately 400 mph at an altitude of about 1,500 feet. He noted that meteorological balloons could not achieve such speed and that aviation experts offered no explanation.

• A report from "TRUE STRANGE EXPERIENCES" magazine (June 1956) by Harold Mattam describes an incident on December 25th, 1955, near Rigby, England. The author witnessed a brilliant light object that followed a train, became stationary, and then sped away. The object was intensely bright and could not have been an aircraft or a star.

Acknowledgement to "IF" Magazine

This section includes a statement from A.O. Tischler, President of the Cleveland-Akron Section of the American Rocket Society, who asserts that UFO reports cannot be dismissed. He draws a parallel to the past skepticism towards space flight enthusiasts, who were once regarded as 'characters' but are now respected due to advancements in rocket engineering. Tischler advises that people should remain informed rather than accepting or rejecting UFO evidence outright.

Donal F. Keyhoe, Director of NICAP, is mentioned as having addressed the Cleveland-Akron group.

"Advertiser" Adelaide Sightings

Several sightings reported by "The Advertiser" in Adelaide are detailed:

• January 23rd, 1958: Sputnik II observers reported a strange object in the sky, appearing as a bright red ball travelling fast, then swinging north and disappearing. It was described as Sirius-sized and bright, with a red halo, but no fiery tail, and a different trajectory than a meteor.
• Christmas 1957: A woman in Southern Adelaide reported a very bright star-like object that formed a cross shape, which her husband also witnessed. Both felt a sense of unease.
• December 6th, 1957: Three people reported seeing a yellow ball of fire travelling NE towards Gawler, followed by a small white light. In the afternoon of the same day, 35 men observed a silver-colored circular object directly above a power house at Osborne for about 45 minutes, at an estimated altitude of 10,000 feet.

"Whyalla News" Sightings

Reports from "The Whyalla News" detail several sightings:

• February 7th, 1958: A glowing unidentified object was seen in the western sky, travelling from NE to SW and disappearing. It rapidly changed appearance from a low-flying plane with a green light to a large, bright luminous green football.
• February 7th, 1958: Mr. G. Lord reported seeing a startling and magnificent green bowl-shaped object that flashed into view and disappeared quickly. He was a disbeliever in flying saucers but was nonplussed by the sighting.
• February 1st, 1958: A large copper fire ball was seen in the SW sky, lasting six seconds and lighting up the landscape. This was reported as the sixth such sighting by Mr. Don Babbidge, local President of the AFSRS, in the past four months.

"Whats happening to the 'Atlas' Missiles?"

This section briefly discusses the exploding Atlas inter-continental missile launched on June 11th, 1957. An observer reportedly described seeing a light or lighted object diving towards the rocket just before its explosion, which was characterized as a violent orange mushroom. The article notes that several missiles have since met with "accidents."

Rockhampton News

Reports from Rockhampton indicate a surge in UFO sightings in the two weeks prior to February 15th, 1958. Six people in one area saw two green lights flying in formation. Another sighting involved a light under a cloud that moved under cloud cover. Some residents are concerned about the possibility of UFOs landing, and questions are raised about their purpose.

An excerpt from "The UFOloger" by Alex Pennington, dedicated to Dr. Donald Menzel of Harvard Observatory, dismisses UFOs as illusions, heat inversions, or misidentified phenomena like Venus or red corpuscles in the eye.

Why the Governments Won't Talk

This section presents a collection of 13 reasons, attributed to "Washington Saucer Intelligence," explaining why governments allegedly remain silent on the UFO topic:

1. Fear: Governments are afraid.
2. Threat to Sovereignty: Flying saucers and their implications threaten the un-strained sovereignty of governments.
3. Super Power and External Intelligence: Saucers represent a super power, and other worlds with vastly greater intelligence are watching.
4. Military Advantage: Governments might suppress truth to make enemies think saucers are their own secret missiles, gaining a military advantage.
5. World Domination: Suppressing truth could allow governments time to duplicate flying saucers, potentially enabling them to rule the world and conquer outer space.
6. Public Panic: Governments fear telling people because the masses are uneducated and would likely panic, recalling the Orson Welles broadcast.
7. Transcendental Nature: The observed behavior of saucers and space beings indicates a supra-physical aspect that is officially impossible to admit.
8. Conditioning the Public: The public needs to be conditioned for the truth, with the task left to popular media and artists until the time is right for official information release.
9. Controversial Policy: Governments employ a policy of making saucers controversial, encouraging and then denying sightings to educate the public before official announcements.
10. Lack of Knowledge: Governments do not know enough about saucers to make official announcements and are puzzled and doubtful, thus investigating secretly.
11. Economic Interests: Revealing information about flying saucers would be bad economic policy, as space people have solved their economic problems, threatening the status quo of Earth's monied interests.
12. Security Reasons: Mysterious, unsubstantiated, and unexplained security reasons are cited.
13. Hope for Disappearance: Governments secretly hope the flying saucers will simply go away.

The article concludes by endorsing these points as being "right to the point and definitely right to the core of the matter."

Last Minute News Item from "Advertiser"

• February 27th, 1958: "Saucer Pictures" from Rio de Janeiro. The Brazilian Navy Minister vouched for the authenticity of photographs of a flying saucer taken by seamen aboard a survey ship off the coast of Brazil.

New Saucer Book Out

A new book, "Saucer Pilgrimage," priced at $3.50, is recommended as a good saucer survey.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the reporting of numerous UFO sightings across Australia, the exploration of scientific theories attempting to explain these phenomena (particularly Burkhard Heim's), and a critical examination of why governments might be withholding information. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards UFO reports, encouraging investigation and dissemination of information, while also acknowledging the skepticism and potential for misidentification. The inclusion of opinions from scientists and official figures suggests an effort to legitimize the study of UFOs. The "Why the Governments Won't Talk" section strongly implies a belief in a coordinated effort by governments to suppress information, driven by fear and strategic interests.

Title: AUSTRALIAN SAUCER RECORD
Issue: PAGE 17 (and subsequent pages)
Date: Undetermined, but likely around 1950s based on content and price.
Publisher: Australian Flying Saucer Research Society
Country: Australia

This issue of the Australian Saucer Record details the visit of the Hon. National Director of the A.F.S.R.S. to West Australia. The report highlights the director's efforts to spread awareness about UFOs, undertaken during his personal holiday periods at significant personal and financial sacrifice. His visit is credited with benefiting other UFO groups by increasing their memberships and assisting in rebuilding their causes.

West Australia Visit

The director's tour began with the old Australian F.S. Bureau, which was then rebuilt into the new Society for the AFSRS. Subsequently, he visited Sydney to assist the U.F.O. Research Society and then Brisbane to support the Queensland U.F.O. Society, both of which experienced significant growth following his visit. Melbourne also saw the opening of a new AFSRS branch and the commencement of a local radio session, leading to substantial membership enrollments.

In Perth, West Australia, the director received a warm reception, delivering three public lectures at the Cremorne Hall and Y.A.L Hall. The lectures covered topics such as 'The Truth About The Flying Saucers', 'Flying Saucers and Coming World Events', and 'Flying Saucers and the Bible'. The local AFSRS society, which had been in decline, was revitalized under his guidance, leading to the formation of a new committee and a more optimistic outlook for UFO research in the region. Interested individuals were directed to contact the new President, Mr. Cyril Jones, at 84 Dagleish St, Wembley, West Australia. The article expresses gratitude for the director's clear explanations of UFOs and their significance.

Membership and Meetings

Page 18 discusses the ongoing efforts to increase knowledge about UFOs through regular monthly meetings held at the Y.A.L. Hall on the second Friday of each month. The aim is to greatly increase membership and launch a more vital effort.

The editor thanks the writer for their generous comments and acknowledges the delightful hosts whose hospitality made the visit a pleasant and successful campaign. The editor expresses a wish to have stayed longer.

An appeal for back numbers of the Record has been successful, and most issues are now available, except for No. 1 of Vol. I. Back copies are priced at 2/- each (postage free in Australia) and 25 cents in the U.S.A. and Canada.

Technical Adviser Lecture

An informative lecture was given by Mr. Jack Ferry, the AFSRS Technical Adviser, to the Mitcham Ex. R.A.A.F. Branch. The lecture, which was tape-recorded, impressed attendees with its knowledgeable content. The recording is available for other branches or groups.

Book Reviews

Page 3 features a book review section aimed at Australians seeking to purchase books from the U.S.A. on a limited budget.

• "STRANGEST OF ALL" by Frank Edwards: This book is described as excellent reading, filled with interesting data on UFO cases, though it is not strictly a 'saucer' book. It is recommended for those who enjoy reading about weird incidents or ghost stories, but may disappoint avid fans seeking first-rate UFO information.
• "SAUCER DIARY" by Isreal Norkin: This book is heavily criticized for offering no real value to a serious study of the matter. It is described as a compilation of letters detailing Norkin's difficulties in getting his 'saucer memoirs' published, and is considered a waste of time and money.

Committee and New Address

Page 4 reports on the first general meeting of the year, announcing the re-election of committee members: Mr. Fred Stone (National Director and President), Mr. John Fisher (Treasurer and Secretary), and Mr. John Bushell (Committee Man - Records). Two new members, Mr. Jan Verdonk (Interpreter) and Mr. Alec. Millikin (Investigator), were also elected.

Mr. Jack Ferry continues as the technical adviser and is noted as being the agent for Dr. A. Dittmar in Australia, supplying tapes from him. The committee looks forward to a successful year.

A new address for meetings is announced: Housewives Association Lounge Room, No. 10. Compton St. City (off Gouger St. City, opposite the Peoples Stores). A tape recording of Frank Edwards' address to the Detroit F.S. Club was played at the first meeting there, and the acoustics were praised.

Membership Dues

To align with other societies, husband and wife memberships are now priced at £1-1-0 for the husband and 10/- for the wife, totaling £1-11-0.

Call to Action

Members are encouraged to invite friends and relatives to meetings to make the year a great one.

Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes the study of UFOs and flying saucers, encouraging membership and participation in society activities. It provides updates on lectures, meetings, and the activities of its members and leadership. The book reviews indicate a critical approach to publications, valuing factual content and serious study over sensationalism. The publication also serves as an official organ for the Australian Flying Saucer Research Society, disseminating information and fostering a sense of community among enthusiasts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the promotion and expansion of the Australian Flying Saucer Research Society (AFSRS) through outreach, lectures, and increased membership. The visit of the National Director to West Australia is a central focus, highlighting the positive impact on local societies. Book reviews offer critical perspectives on UFO literature, emphasizing the importance of factual content. Updates on meetings, committee changes, and membership structures indicate a focus on organizational development and member engagement. The editorial stance is clearly pro-UFO research, advocating for a serious and organized approach to the subject, while also fostering a sense of community and shared interest among its readers.