Australian Saucer Record - Vol 04 No 04 - 1958

Magazine Overview

Title: AUSTRALIAN SAUCER RECORD
Issue: VOLUME FOUR. NO.4
Date: FOURTH QUARTER 1958 (October 1, 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, presents a collection of articles and reports related to UFO phenomena, contactee experiences, and the perceived suppression of information. The magazine adopts an open-minded approach, encouraging readers to critically evaluate evidence.

Editorial: "Those Three Men in Black?"

The editorial addresses the phenomenon of 'Men in Black' (MIB), referencing the case of Albert Bender who, in 1954, claimed to have been visited by three MIB who demanded he cease his investigations. The editor posits that these individuals represent an organized effort to suppress vital information, not just concerning UFOs but also other public knowledge. This 'Silence Group,' potentially linked to 'International Bankers,' is seen as a powerful, hidden force. The editorial critiques the simplistic view that MIB would use the same methods repeatedly, suggesting their tactics would evolve to remain undetected. It draws parallels to G.H. Williamson's book 'Other Tongues, Other Flesh,' which describes agents with specific physical characteristics and methods of undermining individuals and their work through insidious campaigns rather than overt threats.

The editor argues that this strategy of subtle subversion is more effective and less detectable than dramatic interventions like the 'three men in black' visits. The editorial warns readers to be vigilant against such 'intruders' who operate from within organizations and sow discord. It concludes with a strong admonition: "DONT EXPECT THREE MEN IN BLACK WATCH OUT FOR THE INTRUDERS."

A Classification of U.F.O. Researchers

Based on a correspondent's letter, the magazine presents a classification of UFO researchers:

• NO.1. THE ARDENT BELIEVERS: Believe Everything.
• NO. 2. THE UNBELIEVERS: Deny Everything.
• NO.3. THE WAIT AND SEES: Observe passively.

The editor adds a fourth category, to which he claims allegiance:

• THE TRY AND TESTERS: These individuals are not entirely gullible but are willing to investigate, make attempts to unravel mysteries, and honestly admit mistakes while continuing their work.

"LET'S FACE IT" by P.D.

This column critiques writers in UFO literature who, while claiming open-mindedness, exhibit prejudice and sarcasm, often using unsubstantiated evidence to support their arguments. The author discusses the common argument posed by critics: why don't space messengers contact world leaders or statesmen? The column then systematically refutes this argument by posing several questions:

1. What proof do opponents have that such leaders have NOT been contacted?
2. Would any great leader dare to declare such a visit, and would they be believed?
3. Wouldn't opponents use such a statement against them?
4. Would vested interests prevent such a leader from revealing the truth?
5. Is it not more feasible that some leaders HAVE been contacted and either suppressed the information due to its implications or were instructed to reveal it at a later time, similar to the Fatima incident?

The author notes that the late Pope claimed an experience similar to Fatima, suggesting potential revelations that have not yet been fully disclosed. The column emphasizes that while not all contactee stories are reliable, cynical criticism will never disprove them. It urges readers to approach these accounts with an "OUT OF THIS WORLD CONCEPTION" to properly evaluate them, accepting facts and waiting for confirmation before dismissing potentially significant revelations.

Another Interesting Letter from G. Adamski

This section features an extract of a letter from G. Adamski, sent to the Japanese Flying Saucer Research Association and translated by Mrs. B. Eden. Adamski recounts an event prior to the launch of Sputnik 2, where he claims to have seen 'men from space' who were interested in Sputnik 1 and its flight. He states that 6 to 24 flying saucers accompanied Sputnik 1 out of interest, but warns that any similar rockets attempting to land on Mars or other planets would be destroyed.

Adamski also mentions meeting a man from Venus named ORTHON (or ORSON, as the translator suggested). Orthon reportedly stated that over 6,000 flying saucers were circling the globe, observing activities. Orthon indicated that a wholesale landing on Earth would not occur until humanity was more mentally perfected, to avoid trouble with 'the Master.' Orthon expressed a desire to keep in touch with one person from each important country.

The editor adds comments, noting that Adamski's mention of space friends landing and contacting people prior to Sputnik 2 suggests more than just Adamski alone was involved. He also references Laura Marxer, who met Orthon according to Edgar Sievers' publication 'Approach' magazine.

Adamski, in response to a claim, states that Marxer has never had personal meetings with the same entities he has. The editor expresses a preference for many selected individuals from various countries to be messengers, rather than a few claiming sole authority, and cautions against the ego of individuals who set themselves up as authorities on space people.

Unusual Phenomena Reports

Report from D.W.G. Saunders, Independent Investigator, New Zealand:

On September 17, 1958, citizens in Auckland, New Zealand, reported an unusual phenomenon in the Western sky: two beams of light resembling an inverted 'V'. The press attributed this to peculiar cirrus clouds reflecting moonlight. The investigator, however, found this explanation unlikely due to the intensity of the light and the nature of the clouds. The following evening, a brilliant aurora display was observed.

Adelaide News, October 16, 1958:

Two men from Pt. Pirie, South Australia, Messrs. Keith Turner and H. White, reported observing the moon behaving 'queerly.' They watched it drop 50 degrees in altitude within two to three minutes, appearing to swing upside down and emitting a brilliant glow. Mr. Turner noted the time as 8:44 PM and drew a sketch. They initially speculated it might be related to Russia's attempt to strike the moon. A Weather Bureau spokesman suggested a light refraction due to atmospheric density changes was the probable cause.

Night Sky Mystery, Melbourne "Sun", October 15, 1958:

Scores of Melbourne people observed a stationary light in the sky, low on the horizon, which could not be explained by the airport or the Weather Bureau. Observers described it as brighter than a normal star and of amber color, with one noting it appeared to change color. The editor expressed disturbance that the Met. Bureau seemed to slip up on its usual Venus fading theory.

Triangular Shaped "Saucer" Report, Brisbane, October 23, 1958:

Reported in the "News" S.A., a new type of 'Flying Saucer,' described as a bright orange 'flying triangle,' was seen by Cairns newsagent George Hicks and supported by a police constable. The object hovered over a Viscount airliner during landing and then split in two, with a large white round object in the center, before swiftly disappearing. No further news was reported, and the incident was apparently 'squashed.' The magazine hopes for more information from Queensland observers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the persistent mystery of the 'Men in Black' and their role in information suppression, the diverse nature of UFO sightings and phenomena, and the challenges faced by UFO researchers in gaining credibility and disseminating information. The editorial stance is one of critical inquiry, encouraging readers to be open-minded but also cautious and analytical. The magazine champions the 'Try and Testers' approach to research, valuing empirical investigation and honest self-assessment over blind belief or outright dismissal. There is a clear undercurrent of suspicion towards established authorities and a belief that significant truths are being deliberately hidden from the public.

This issue of the Australian Saucer Record, dated October 21, 1958, features a cover story titled "RED BALLOONEY" by Ian Wannan. The magazine explores various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, including scientific explanations, eyewitness accounts, and organizational debates.

"RED BALLOONEY" and Professor Cotton's Explanation

The lead article by Ian Wannan humorously critiques Professor Cotton's explanation of UFOs as 'red corpuscles in front of the eyes.' Wannan sarcastically suggests that scientists should mind their own business and asks for an open mind to understand the 'unexplained phenomena.' He presents three 'notable facts' to counter Cotton's theory: a U.S. Government-authenticated film showing red corpuscles flying, the idea of corpuscles changing color during a 'blood transfusion,' and George Adamski's photographs of 'roving reds.' Wannan playfully claims to have discovered 'CAMERAS HAVE CORPUSCLES' and anticipates becoming popular for photographing them. He states that he would have accepted Cotton's theory if he hadn't opened his mind to the subject, recalling witnessing an 'airshow by the Red (corpusclo) outer space airforce.'

Weather Balloon Theory and Other Explanations

Another article dismisses the 'Weather Balloon Theory' as 'Balloonce (DUST IN THE PUBLIC'S EYE)' to cover the truth. It recounts a specific incident on April 26, 1952, where a bright weather balloon over Lake Wilcox, Ontario, suddenly raced from North to South at approximately 1,000 m.p.h., appearing flat during its flight. The author speculates humorously that it might have encountered a red corpuscle or had its conscience pricked. The article notes that weather balloons have been tracked at 20,000 m.p.h., questioning the continued development of jet planes that do not exceed 1,000 mph. It suggests the airforce should take over weather forecasting to handle threats from Russia.

Country Newspapers and UFO Message

This section reports on the positive response from South Australian country newspapers to a request to publish articles on the UFO message. The Balaklava paper 'The Producer' and the Mannum and Districts 'Recorder' are highlighted for giving space to articles written by committee members Alex Millikan and the Editor, respectively. Other country journals have promised similar coverage.

Tape Recorded Space Communications

This section presents incidents of tape-recorded messages from unexplainable sources, sent from New Zealand by co-worker D.K.G. Saunders. These experiences differ from an English account involving Mr. Phillips, where the voices appeared unexpectedly. The article notes that similar claims of receiving messages via radio and electronic devices have been reported from America and documented in G.H. Williamson's book 'U.F.O. Confidential.' The New Zealand 'Free Lance' Journal is criticized for initially wanting to publish an account but then rejecting it, prompting the magazine to publish the facts for readers to judge. A cautionary note is added by Jack Ferry, suggesting that while remarkable phenomena occurred, they might not necessarily originate from 'space brothers' but could be caused by 'deceptive spirits.' The need for checks on the speaker's quality and standing is emphasized.

Further details on the New Zealand case are provided, including a press cutting from the 'Sunday Pictorial' about an Italian receiving tape-recorded messages from 'God.' This is used to illustrate that not all space messages on tapes are reliable and require vital testing. The author expresses confidence in Saunders' integrity but points out the dangers involved. Excerpts from Saunders' letters describe a phenomenon that attracted the attention of the 'N.Z. Journal,' which found it sensational but normal. Saunders claims to have conducted further experiments, sending and receiving direct audible answers on tape in complete silence. He mentions using a special apparatus and describes an incident where the electric light dimmed during recording, followed by a reported UFO sighting over Auckland.

Saunders reports that the messages have been brief and not very informative but expects better results as they progress. He has seven witnesses to his experiences. The messages range from high-frequency oscillations to musical tones, and finally spoken words. An excerpt from a letter mentions a 'distinct cough, a number of people talking (male and female), and an intermittent high frequency oscillation,' followed by clicks, banging sounds, and a deep sigh. Saunders hopes to obtain more spectacular results by increasing the magnetic field strength and potentially receiving images. The 'Free Lance' Journal declined to publish his experiences, deeming them inconclusive.

The magazine concludes this section by stating they cannot commit on the origin of these experiences but acknowledge that with multiple claimants providing undeniable proof, they cannot be dismissed as 'poppycock.'

New Tape Recorded Lecture Available

A tape-recorded lecture by Reg. A. Bradbury of Devon, England, titled "THE LATEST NEWS OF THE SPACE MEN AND THEIR SHIPS," is available for purchase. The magazine also recommends his publication 'KINGDOM VOICE' for those interested in a biblical approach to the UFO.

DISSENSION IN THE "NICAP" CAMP

This article discusses a rift within the top administrative ranks of NICAP, attributed to the organization's unwillingness to conduct a 'straight-out, open-minded, investigation of the contactee stories.' This has resulted in the resignation of two 'ardent helpers.' The author expresses admiration for these individuals for standing by their convictions and agrees that NICAP should thoroughly investigate these claims. While acknowledging that not all stories may be valid, the article argues that an open investigation would be welcomed and would prove the truth or falsity of these claims. It is suggested that a significant portion of the enthusiasm for the UFO subject is based on contactee accounts, and a thorough investigation could have devastating effects if the reports were proven false. The author urges NICAP not to be 'one-eyed' and to confront the issue, stating that if the stories are false, NICAP would be doing a service to UFO workers by proving them so. The article concludes by challenging NICAP, implying they are not 'game' to accept the challenge.

Further Brilliant Sky Object and our Evaluation

This section reports on a 'brilliant celestial object,' likely a meteor, that exploded in the sky near Oodnadatta, Australia, on Sunday night, October 19, 1958. It was observed by many residents and at several stations. Detective A.M. Palmer described the object as having a fiery reddish tail and a long yellow flame, traveling fast across the sky. Constable Bill Jacobs heard a roaring noise. The object was seen for about half a minute, seemed to drop, and then exploded. People in Oodnadatta reported that it disintegrated near the town, rattling windows. Mr. J. Kempe described it as looking like a falling star that burst into brilliant orange-yellow light, followed by two explosions. Professor A.R. Alderman of Adelaide University suggested it was a meteor.

The evaluation of the sighting notes a time-lag between the explosion and the sound, indicating an altitude of 30-40 miles. While the visibility and speed are consistent with meteors, the description of the flames is anomalous. The article considers and dismisses the possibilities of it being a runaway missile or a satellite. Ultimately, the object is classified as 'not positively identified.'

INVISIBLE ENTITIES AROUND Us.?

This article explores the possibility of invisible entities, including ghosts, spirits, and saucers, and seeks logical explanations. It delves into the functioning of the human eye and how it perceives objects based on reflected light and frequencies. The author explains that the average human eye is sensitive only to a limited spectrum of electromagnetic waves (visible light). However, there are other waves, such as infra-red and ultra-violet, to which the eye is insensitive. The article posits that if an entity or object emits or reflects only these invisible waves, it would be undetectable to most people. It suggests that individuals with the ability to perceive these invisible waves might be considered 'mad' if they described seeing something 'monstrous.' The text mentions that such invisible things might be recorded on special photographic film sensitive to infra-red light. It references photos published in local papers showing ghostly figures and people not present when the photo was taken, suggesting that films sensitive to wavelengths beyond human perception could register these entities.

"Was This A Message from Space?" Further Developments

This section follows up on a previous article about strange writings and drawings made by two young members, which appeared to be impressed upon them from an outer force. Many readers have written to the society, suggesting the writings are of ancient Sanskrit formation. The latest development is a letter from India, where the author wishes to submit a paper titled "Automatic writing controlled by some extra-terrestrial Mind" to the Parapsychological Seminar at Saugor University. The author requests permission to quote extracts and use illustrations from the Australian Saucer Record's previous article on the subject, stating that it will create great interest in the question of intelligent beings in other worlds.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the critical examination of scientific explanations for UFO phenomena, the presentation of eyewitness accounts and alleged communications from extraterrestrial sources, and the discussion of organizational issues within the UFO research community. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging readers to consider various possibilities while also maintaining a degree of skepticism and demanding evidence. There is a clear emphasis on the need for thorough investigation and a critical evaluation of claims, particularly those involving tape recordings and contactee experiences. The magazine also employs a degree of humor and satire, especially when discussing less conventional theories.

Title: AUSTRALIAN SAUCER RECORD
Issue: NINETEEN
Volume: NINETEEN
Date: PAGE. NINETEEN. (Interpreted as January 1950s)
Publisher: Australian Flying Saucer Research Society
Country: Australia
Language: English

Editorial Stance and Key Articles

This issue of the Australian Saucer Record addresses potential misunderstandings or misrepresentations regarding the status of the U.F.O. Association of Australia and its relationship with the Australian Flying Saucer Research Society (AFSRS). The editorial explains the AFSRS's decision to remain aloof from unity with the U.F.O. Association, despite being requested to join by the N.S.W. group.

Reasons for Independence

The AFSRS committee, after much discussion, decided against the proposed union. While they were in spirit in full agreement with the surface proposals, underlying reasons led them to prefer remaining an independent organization. They emphasize that this decision was not due to a lack of willingness to cooperate, but rather stemmed from past negative experiences. The society has learned difficult lessons from misplaced trust, making them cautious about whom they confide in. They attribute these past issues to personalities in control rather than the societies as a whole.

Contributions and Cooperation

The AFSRS highlights that the benefits of union were long ago instituted and have been in operation by their society. They note that those who availed themselves of these benefits often showed appreciation. The article points out that while the U.F.O. Association boasts about its tape recordings available to subscribers, each of the three societies involved have, on a few occasions, availed themselves of tapes from the AFSRS, none of which have been made available to the AFSRS in return. The AFSRS has built a substantial library of such recordings through the services of Mr. Jack Forry, their Technical Adviser and the Australian representative of Dr. A. Dittmaris U.F.O. Tape Service, and has always offered these to anyone who desired them.

Furthermore, the AFSRS has made paper cuttings and other information available to all societies from their Headquarters. They claim to be the only society that has sent a representative, their National Director, to all states to assist with public lectures. These lectures are credited with causing great interest and benefit, often serving as the initial spark or the resurrection of a previously defunct society.

Unkind Actions and Egotism

Strangely, for these good deeds, the AFSRS has received unkind actions. They observe that very little reference is made to their initial efforts in the loud boastings of the U.F.O. Association's status. The AFSRS suggests that these groups prefer to 'bite the hand that fed them.' This ingratitude is seen as an indication of egotistical men who desire to be the 'top dog.' This complex is noted as common throughout Australia, particularly in the Eastern states, where a larger population leads them to feel they have the right to dominate smaller populated states in national and organizational matters.

Reiteration of Willingness to Cooperate

Despite these issues, the AFSRS emphatically states they have no ill feelings and reiterate their willingness to be at unity and cooperate in all matters where possible. They explicitly state, 'WE DO NOT DESIRE TO WAVE THE HATCHET? RATHER TO BURY IT.' They believe that if the unity of these states proves to be genuine, they will not find the AFSRS lacking in fellowship. They conclude by referencing a natural law: 'BY THEIR FRUITS YE SHALL KNOW THEM. MEANTIME DEEDS, NOT WORDS WILL TELL.'

'A MESSAGE FROM SPACE?' Article

The issue also includes an article titled "A MESSAGE FROM SPACE?" which is continued from page 18. The letter containing this article was received from S.K. Maitra of the Banaras Hindu University of India. The AFSRS gladly consented to use the article in its entirety. They have requested a copy of the paper and any translations of the writings. Additionally, they mention adding some further small scraps of writings that occurred to a young lad. The lad reportedly fell into a deep sleep while doing these writings, and some of the writing was made off the paper as his hand continued writing on the table. The AFSRS plans to take more care in the future to preserve any such manifestations, as it was not initially realized they could prove of more import than first imagined. The readers are assured that the outcome will be of interest.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around organizational dynamics within the Australian UFO community, emphasizing the importance of genuine cooperation, transparency, and mutual respect. The editorial stance is one of cautious openness, advocating for actions over mere words to demonstrate true fellowship and unity. The AFSRS positions itself as a contributor and supporter of the broader UFO research movement in Australia, while also asserting its independence and past contributions.