Australian Saucer Record - Vol 06 No 01 - 1960 INCOMPLETE

Magazine Overview

This is the first issue of the "AUSTRALIAN SAUCER RECORD," the official organ of the Australian Flying Saucer Research Society, published in 1960. The magazine presents itself as "THE OPEN MINDED SAUCER MAGAZINE OF AUSTRALIA" and features a cover illustration of a flying saucer over a landscape with a pyramid, alongside the title and issue details.

Editorial: 1960 - A Year of Expectations

The editorial, written by FRED. P. STONE, sets a tone of anticipation for 1960, suggesting it will be a year of significant terrestrial events. It notes that predictions of great events are being made by various sources, including violent weather, earthquakes, and international tension. The editor suggests that if past prognosticators have been reliable, the current year will see an accelerated pace of events, pointing towards a coming world crisis. The editorial emphasizes the importance of considering these predictions, especially when they align with ancient prophecies and current global affairs, urging readers to be prepared.

The World's State: Complacency, Politics, Economics, and Science

The magazine critiques a general human tendency towards complacency and wishful thinking, preferring a "dream world" of security over facing uncomfortable realities. It identifies smug egotism, arrogance, prejudice, and fear as barriers to facing the truth. The current international political climate is described as disturbing, with the rise of anti-Semitic groups being a particular concern, seen as a potential catalyst for world-wide disturbance. Economically, the world is depicted as being at a high point, but with an inevitable and sudden slump predicted. Science is portrayed as having advanced rapidly, creating "Frankenstein monsters" beyond its control, and admitting past errors, necessitating constant revisions of textbooks.

Ancient Finds and Possible Lemurian Links

An article titled "WERE THEY LEMURIANS?" explores archaeological findings in Australia that are suggested to link with ancient civilizations. Reports from "The Advertiser" detail the discovery of flint implements in the Koonalda Cave, Nullarbor Plains, made by an aborigine at least 4,000 years ago. Further excavations revealed tools dating back as far as 12,000 years, representing an extraordinary sequence of human activity. The discovery of a semi-fossilized skeleton of a tall aborigine, estimated to be 2,000 years old, is also mentioned. Additionally, about 250 aboriginal stone implements, up to 10,000 years old, were found along the Wakefield River. These finds are compared to those from Kangaroo Island and Hallotts Cove, suggesting a common aboriginal culture. The curator of the S.A. Museum notes similarities to implements found in Borneo, dated back 40,000 years.

The Polar Flip Theory

An article, attributed to "A.S." and taken from the Tyneside U.F.O. society's journal "Orbit," elaborates on the "Polar Flip Theory." It suggests that Russia's proposal to dam the Bering Straits is part of a plan to open up new lands in the north by altering the cold sea stream. This, it is theorized, would raise temperatures, melt ice, and prepare lands for a new equatorial belt after a "90 degree flip" of the Earth. The article posits that the melting ice would be absorbed by accumulating ice at the South Pole, a phenomenon supported by I.G.Y. reports. The theory connects this to the shape of the moon, suggesting that if it is pear-shaped with the blunt end facing Earth, its approach could cause significant tidal changes, as evidenced by unusually low tides observed off the coast of England. The proposed solution is a new orbit for Earth to unbalance its equatorial bulge and move away from the moon.

New Land Preparations and Prophecy

Continuing the "Polar Flip Theory," the article suggests that the Earth will survive the impending crisis, with new lands being prepared in the North. Governments are reportedly preparing refuges in high places for the massive tidal waves expected when the poles shift. The melting South Pole ice is expected to form new equatorial regions, with survey teams investigating potential atomic and nuclear plants for power and habitation. The article references a prophecy from St. Mark, Chapter 13, verse 14, about the "abomination of desolation" as a sign.

Brilliant Object in the Sky: New Zealand Sighting

A report from "The Christchurch Star" details a sighting on November 25, 1959, in New Zealand. Three travellers near Whatatane observed a "tremendous white light" that appeared stationary, resembling a German Iron Cross. As they watched, the object moved slowly, then gathered speed, assuming a circular shape with rays. The sighting occurred on a clear night with no other traffic.

Men in Green Glow: Another New Zealand Sighting

Another New Zealand report from July 23, 1959, describes a "saucer shaped glow with two indented green lights" seen by Mrs. Fred. Moreland in Nelson. She reported seeing two large green things like eyes or lamps descend to the ground. She then noticed a green glow bathing the area. A light was switched on in a dome-like structure, and the object, described as about 20-30 ft. in diameter, hovered. Two men in close-fitting shiny suits and opaque helmets were observed inside. The object then ascended rapidly and disappeared into the clouds, leaving a smell resembling pepper.

Letter from Ireland: Operation OZMA and Alien Contact

A letter from P.D. GILL in Ireland discusses the announcement of "Operation OZMA," the use of the Green Bank Radio telescope to search for intelligent extraterrestrial life. Gill views this as a serious, government-backed research plan, not a stunt. He notes the tone of the announcement presupposes a higher level of intelligence than humans. The letter questions what scientists will ask, suggesting they should be warned of impending collisions with other celestial bodies. Gill connects this project to claims made by individuals like Hunt-Williamson, Adamski, Fry, and Kraspedon, who have reported contact with beings from other worlds, warning of nuclear explosions and the Earth entering the sphere of a new giant sun or body. He suggests Operation OZMA might be a precursor to official vindication of these claims.

Saucers and Metaphysics: The Psychic Approach

This section discusses the value of psychic or metaphysical approaches to UFO research, contrasting them with scientific methods. It quotes Einstein on the importance of mystic sensation as the base of real science and the realization of the "impenetrable" as the pith of real religion. The article suggests that materialism is nearing its end, with science being forced towards the spiritual. It acknowledges the difficulty in separating truth from falsehood in psychic claims and messages, questioning the source and nature of entities contacted. The author advises caution, suggesting the need for a clear understanding of light and darkness, positive and negative polarities, and the application of "Forces of Light" before delving into other dimensions. The article concludes that for reliable findings, science and religion must work together.

Flying Object Speeds Across Alaskan Skies

A brief report from Anchorage, Alaska, dated February 15, describes a "hurting tube" object with belching flame seen travelling at tremendous speed across the western Alaska skies, originating from Russian Siberia. The object was sighted by an airline employee and monitored by two radar stations near Nome.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the anticipation of significant global events in 1960, the potential for a coming world crisis, and the exploration of ancient mysteries and their connection to UFO phenomena. There is a strong undercurrent of skepticism towards complacency and materialism, advocating for a more open-minded and spiritually aware approach to understanding the universe. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various theories and reports, even those that challenge conventional scientific or societal views, while urging readers to think critically and be prepared for the unknown.

This issue of the magazine, dated Monday, January 25th, 1960, focuses on UFO-related events and broader discussions within the ufology community. The primary cover story details a flying saucer sighting and mysterious explosions over Sydney, Australia, on January 25th, 1960. Other articles delve into a Russian scientist's unique interpretation of biblical events, the ongoing debate about freedom of speech and unity within UFO organizations, and astronomical observations.

Sydney UFO Sighting and Explosions (January 25th, 1960)

The lead article reports on a significant event in Sydney where mystery explosions and a flying saucer sighting frightened residents in the western suburbs. Ken Armstrong and George Montgomery described seeing a silver, glistening object hovering stationary over the city for about four minutes before it turned and sped away at a terrific speed. Thousands of people in the Hurstville and Merrylands-Parramatta area reported hearing the explosions. Authorities from the R.A.N., Army, and R.A.A.F. stated they had no information about the events, and the Air Force clarified that the noise was not caused by an aircraft breaking the sound barrier.

Mystery Flares Sighted (January 28th)

Another report details the sighting of mystery flares near Meekatharra, Australia, on Thursday, January 28th. Flares were seen from two stations over rugged country about 130 miles north-west of Meekatharra around 8 p.m. A police party was dispatched to investigate. A light aircraft was also heard circling above the clouds in the area between 5:30 and 5:45 a.m. The local Flying Doctor branch of Civil Aviation had no report of aircraft in the area at that time. The owner of Milgun station reported seeing four blue and five red flares. Constable Alan Hough noted that the flares did not constitute recognized distress signals, but red flares usually indicated trouble, suggesting it could be a contractor in difficulty if not an aircraft.

Russian Scientist's Theory on Lot's Wife

An article from the W.A. Daily News (February 10, 1960) presents a theory by Russian scientist M. Agrest regarding the biblical story of Lot's wife. Agrest suggests that Lot's wife may have turned into a pillar of salt not due to divine punishment, but because she witnessed an explosion of excess nuclear fuel from an expedition from another planet. He estimates this event occurred around 3000 B.C. Agrest theorizes that a gigantic spaceship approached Earth, entered orbit, and its occupants studied the planet. He further speculates that the spacemen may have landed near Baalbek in the Anti-Lebanon Mountains, possibly at a platform of huge stone slabs, which could be the remains of a launching platform or a commemorative structure. He also links glass-like substances known as tektites found in the Libyan desert, containing radioactive isotopes, to this event. The article quotes the Russian scientist stating that the legend implies people were warned to leave the area of the future explosion, and those who looked back lost their eyesight and perished.

"Galacticks" Predictions

Under the heading "PREDICTION FROM 'GALACTICKS'", the magazine previews a series of planned articles in newspapers and journals. These articles aim to prepare the public for two key revelations: the existence of another natural satellite for Earth (not man-made), and the presence of intelligent beings on other planets with whom communication is possible. The initial articles are described as speculative, written with a "planned innocence" in a style reminiscent of science fiction.

Freedom of Speech and Unity in Ufology

A significant portion of the magazine (Pages Sixteen and Seventeen) is dedicated to a debate on "WHAT PRICE FREEDOM OF SPEECH". The editorial expresses a strong protest against what it calls the "high handed method" of Major Donald Keyhoe, Director of N.I.C.A.P. (National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena). The magazine criticizes Keyhoe for his telegram to Gabriel Green of the Amalgamated Flying Saucer Clubs of America, warning Green against claiming N.I.C.A.P. was part of his organization and opposing the Los Angeles program which focused on unproved contact claims. Keyhoe's stance is seen as an attempt to suppress claims and cause public ridicule, potentially offsetting serious UFO research. The magazine argues that unity should not come at the cost of sacrificing principles or the right to express one's opinions. It quotes Joaquim Nabuco of Brazil, who warns against centralizing UFO material under an organization that might suppress contact stories. The editorial likens this situation to the Middle Ages, where speaking truth against established philosophy was dangerous, and questions if similar narrow-mindedness exists in ufology today. The concluding sentiment is "BEWARE OF UNITY AT A PRICE."

New UFO Groups and Publications

The magazine announces contact with the London U.F.O. Research Organisation (L.U.F.O.R.O.), welcoming them to the growing family of UFO groups worldwide. The appearance of more such societies is seen as heartening evidence that the UFO phenomenon is not fizzling away as some predicted. The issue also notes the retirement of two editors from the UFO magazine field: Max B. Miller of "SAUCERS" and Edgar Sievers of "APPROACH". The magazine expresses gratitude for their contributions and hopes their interest in the work will continue.

Astronomical and Spiritual Observations

Under the heading "SIGNS IN THE HEAVENS", the magazine reports on a brief notice from the press stating that scientists at the Mt. Palomar observatory observed the sun reversing its magnetic poles over the past 18 months. The writer considers this the most important news released, suggesting it will have felt effects on living things. It also mentions that Spiritual Scientists had predicted such cosmic changes, with a time limit of 1986, and that mankind's reaction to knowledge could precipitate geological and atmospheric changes. The article links these cosmic shifts to material scientists perverting cosmic forces for destructive purposes, leading to observed effects like melting glaciers, rising temperatures, and violent storms.

Planets in Aquarius (1962)

A section on "PLANETS IN AQUARIUS. IN 1962" discusses astrological predictions for February 1962, involving an 8-planet combination. It references historical events like the Boer War (1899) and Hitler's air raids (1941) as potentially portending trouble. It also notes ancient tradition suggesting that when five planets are in one sign, a world order changes, and that the Flood occurred with all planets in Aquarius. The article concludes by noting that Russia is traditionally ruled by Aquarius.

Correction

A correction is issued regarding an item in the previous issue, "Amazing and Interesting Figures," clarifying that the Boer War should be dated 1899 instead of 1889. The magazine apologizes for the mistake, attributing it to the pressure of voluntary work.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the reporting of specific UFO sightings and unexplained phenomena, the exploration of scientific and pseudoscientific theories (including astrological and spiritual interpretations), and a strong emphasis on the importance of free speech and independent investigation within the ufology community. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of open inquiry, critical thinking, and a rejection of what it perceives as dogmatism or attempts at censorship by established UFO organizations. The magazine champions the idea that the public should be gradually educated about UFOs and that information should be shared freely, even if it challenges conventional beliefs.