Cos-Mos - Vol 1 No 06 - 1969

Magazine Overview

COS·MOS, Issue No. 6, dated December 1969, is a UK-based publication focused on UFO phenomena. The cover prominently features the magazine's title, a silhouetted figure in a space suit, a graphic of a flying saucer, and a headline stating its aim 'to Contact Space-Men Or Saucers'. The issue highlights a 'Warminster Special', 'UFO SUB?', 'Toronto Contact', and 'Some Light on the UFOs', along with world news, views, and comment.

The editorial board includes President Dr. G. Doel, Vice-Presidents J. Cleary-Baker and Lucius Farish, Director Norman Oliver, Co-Directors J. Gregory and Brian Simmonds, Membership Secretary S. Shaw, and Journal Editor E. Blandford. COS-MOS is affiliated with SAUCERS (Saucer & Unexplained Celestial Events Research Society USA). Membership fees are listed as £1.1s. per annum in the UK and $3 in the USA. The publication also exchanges journals with other organizations.

A MAN OF OUR TIMES

This section, attributed to Ed L. Blandford, discusses John Keel, described as the originator of the 'Men in Black' (MIB) saga, who had previously announced the end of his UFO activities. Keel has resurfaced as 'Western Editor' for Gray Barker's SAUCER NEWS. Blandford notes Keel's prolific writing on UFOs, including theories on their origin and reports of MIB terrorizing contactees, TV producers, and researchers. The article touches upon organizations allegedly collapsing due to MIB harassment and mentions the deaths of several well-known figures in the UFO field, suggesting a sinister significance as proposed by Keel. Blandford expresses skepticism about the sensationalism in UFO reporting, particularly in Gray Barker's SAUCER NEWS, which he believes appeals to a readership willing to accept such content.

WARMINSTER SPECIAL

This extensive report, introduced by Norman Oliver, details a significant UFO sighting and alleged landing at Cradle Hill, Warminster, on Wednesday, August 27th, 1969. The report presents the experiences of Chris Troubridge and Robert Coates in their own words, noting that their accounts, while generally tallying with Arthur Shuttlewood's initial report, have some differences. Oliver emphasizes that Troubridge and Coates are familiar with the night sky, lending credibility to their observation of unusual objects.

Thirteen people were present at the skywatching party. At approximately 10:10 p.m., a 'burning bush' was observed about 600 yards southwest of Cradle Hill. Chris Troubridge and Robert Coates investigated. As the 'burning bush' effect ceased, they witnessed a large orange ellipsoid UFO hovering at an estimated 100 feet altitude for about three minutes. This object then moved southeast. A second, smaller, dull mat white object was observed trailing the first.

Upon reaching the location where the light had been, Troubridge and Coates reported seeing a tall figure dressed in a tight-fitting black suit with a gold sash. The figure had long dark hair and bright, 'feminine' features. Overcome by fear, they did not approach closer than 30 yards and fled back to the hilltop. The report notes that the Geiger Counter used by other campers at the spot registered nothing, while working normally elsewhere.

Chris Troubridge described the figure as considerably taller than Bob (6'1"), with a large face and tapering features. He was certain it was a male figure, though with effeminate features. The figure wore a dark, tight-fitting, silkish garment. The following day, checks of the hedgerows revealed no ordinary person could have been mistaken for the figure.

Regarding the UFOs, the orange object was initially thought to be Mars but was recognized as something else. It increased in radiance and moved away. The second object kept pace. Chris Troubridge also reported seeing a red light move over Cop Heap and disappear, with a second, smaller light appearing above and behind it. A sighting of a white UFO was also reported at Stonehenge by members of CUFOSS on the same night.

UFO SUB?

This section presents experiences of Mr. A.G. Mobey, who reported seeing an unidentified submarine-type craft. The experience occurred in November 1968 and is described as an out-of-the-body experience. Mobey found himself in a metal corridor of a submarine, greeted by two men in neutral-colored suits. He was given a guided tour of the vehicle, which he described as large and cylindrical, with a civilian crew and a commander who appeared as a 'Spiritual being'. Later, he had a clairvoyant experience of a line of men in neutral suiting, with a shimmering commander in the center. He also experienced walking down a suburban street and seeing a large, metal, dark grey to black vehicle, described as a 'sophisticated submarine', moving slowly through the air at an altitude of 200 ft. He noted that the paint on the vehicle was peeling. Mobey found a reference to this type of vehicle in Weekend magazine.

An additional report mentions an oblong UFO sighted by children over Orpington, Kent, which police could not identify, and the Ministry of Defence was investigating.

CHARIOT'S of DESTINY

This article presents a communication received by the Editor in late summer 1968, signed 'A Servant'. It discusses 'Flying Saucers' in the context of 'Chariots of Destiny', referencing ancient texts and beliefs. The communication suggests that 18 million years ago, a 'Cosmic Plan' was set in motion for Planet Terra. It states that man has incurred 'heavy karma' by contravening the 'Laws of Nature' and that the current time is crucial. It mentions 'Bird Men' who are not part of the Plan but have come due to significant upcoming occurrences. The article asserts that many craft will be seen in specific patterns after September 3rd, 1968, and quotes biblical passages about signs in the heavens and deliverance.

NO WONDER THEY'RE GREEN ON MARS

This short piece, culled from the Daily Mail, discusses findings from the Mariner 6 & 7 Mars probes. Scientists found that Mars' atmosphere lacks nitrogen, which is essential for Earth's chemistry. The probes revealed Mars to be bleak, heavily cratered, cold, dry, almost airless, and hostile to Earth-style life forms.

Other Items

The issue also includes listings for 'FLYING SAUCER FACTS', a new quarterly magazine, and 'UFO Booklist Free' from Lionel Beer. Information is provided for 'CONTACT (UK)' regarding monthly lecture meetings. A notice states that the January issue will be of normal size, implying the December issue is a 'bumper' issue.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of COS·MOS include detailed eyewitness accounts of UFO sightings and alleged landings, particularly the Warminster incident. The magazine also explores the more controversial aspects of the UFO phenomenon, such as the 'Men in Black' and potential alien encounters, while also exhibiting a critical stance towards sensationalism in reporting. The inclusion of the 'Chariots of Destiny' article suggests an interest in the spiritual or esoteric interpretations of UFOs and cosmic events. The magazine also incorporates scientific findings, such as the analysis of Mars' atmosphere, providing a diverse range of content within the UFO genre. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting evidence and witness accounts while encouraging readers to make their own judgments, as indicated by Norman Oliver's closing remark: 'accept or reject, - that is your prerogative'.

This issue of "SOME LIGHT ON THE UFOS" by Eric Livingstone delves into various UFO sightings and encounters, with a central theme exploring the potential aversion of UFOs to light beams. The magazine presents a collection of reports from different regions and time periods, alongside theoretical speculation and personal accounts.

UFO Encounters and Light Reactions

The lead article by Eric Livingstone posits that UFOs dislike beams of light shone upon them, suggesting this may cause them to react erratically or attempt to mimic such effects. Several incidents are cited to support this hypothesis:

• Paraguay Incident (March 1958): Marcio Goncalves and companions reported being chased by a UFO along the Ponta Poran Road. The object dived at high speed, stopped on the road, and when illuminated by the jeep's headlights, began to wobble violently before shooting straight up into the air.
• Second Paraguay Incident (December 21st, 1957): The same driver, with different companions, was followed by two UFOs. One would hover and shine a light on the jeep while the other observed. When the jeep stopped, the UFOs reacted instantaneously, diving at high speed.
• Indiana Train Incident (October 3rd, 1958): Conductor Ed Robinson on southbound train No. 91 observed four UFOs. He used a powerful flashlight, causing the UFOs to jump sideways and scatter when the beam hit them.
• South Africa Incident (September 1965): Constables Koos de Klerk and John Lockem encountered a saucer-shaped UFO surrounded by flames on the National Road. The patrol car's engine stalled.
• South Carolina Incident: B.E. Parham reported his car engine faded during a UFO chase, and he felt the UFO was curious about his headlights. The article notes that UFOs often avoid headlight beams or stall car engines.

The author speculates that this aversion to light might be due to interference with the UFO's power source, drawing an analogy to electromagnetic waves being converted into mechanical force.

Further Sightings and Reports

The magazine also includes reports from various locations:

• Spain (September 1969): Thousands in Madrid witnessed a bright object, prompting an Air Force jet fighter pursuit, though the object remained elusive.
• Sydney, Australia: Scores of people reported an unidentified flying object described as flat, round, and white, moving slowly.
• Brisbane, Australia: A baker reported seeing two large UFOs hovering, with one witness describing a "mother ship" accompanied by two smaller UFOs.
• Argentina (June 1968): Several reports detail encounters with tall, slim beings in protective suits, some described as handsome, with one group issuing an invitation to visit other planets.
• Brazil (January 1959): Witnesses in Lagoa Negra reported a UFO landing, from which descended occupants described as tall, dressed in white overalls, with broad faces and long hair.

Extraterrestrial Communication and Theories

Extraterrestrials Living in Spain

A story is recounted about a priest in Seville who claims three astronauts landed in the French Alps from the planet Ummo, located 14.6 light years away. These beings are described as tall, blond, communicating by telepathy, and aiming to share knowledge with humanity without causing shock.

That Space Language

A letter from Jimmy Goddard discusses potential translations of unknown words from UFO tapes, suggesting "Ya-ba-huseta" might mean "We greet you with love" and "Nyanna-poddo" might mean "God be praised." He links "Nyanna" to the concept of "knowledge" or "God."

The Man from Tau Ceti

An account from Gray Barker's SAUCER NEWS describes farmer Lonnie Duggan finding a small alien, about 4'1" tall, covered in "fur-like hair," who claimed to be from the planet Tau Ceti and was collecting Earth life specimens. The alien stated his people had visited Earth 100 years prior and intended to share knowledge peacefully.

Toronto Woman Has "Space Contact"

Joan Howard details her experiences after July 1968, where she developed psychic contact with an individual from another world. This contact showed her spacecraft, alien technology, and taught her physics and astronomy. She describes a "Mind Machine" used for telepathic communication and mind-reading. She also mentions two groups in his world: "good guys" and "cold-blooded fanatics."

Critique of Contactee Reports

Paul Braczyk writes a letter questioning the handling of "contactee" reports. He criticizes the tendency to dismiss all such accounts as fraudulent, arguing that even in ridiculous stories, a "grain of truth" might exist. He highlights the difficulty in differentiating genuine experiences from hoaxes and the potential for ridicule and exploitation faced by those who claim contact.

The editor's note acknowledges Braczyk's points, stating that not all contact reports are implied to be fraud, but draws a line at claims of being appointed leader by a "Grand Council of Planets."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Recurring themes include the interaction between UFOs and light, the nature of extraterrestrial beings and their communication methods, and the challenges of researching and verifying UFO phenomena. The magazine appears to present a range of accounts, from direct sightings to more speculative theories and personal contact experiences, while also acknowledging the need for critical evaluation of claims. The editorial stance seems to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging investigation into even unusual reports while maintaining a degree of skepticism towards sensational claims.

This document is a scanned issue of a publication titled "COS-MOS", issue number 20. The cover date is implicitly September 27th, 1969, based on the report of the inaugural meeting. The publication appears to be a UK-based magazine focused on UFOs and ufology.

COS-MOS Inaugural Meeting

The inaugural meeting of the COS-MOS organization took place at Kensington Library on September 27th. The meeting was well-attended and included an introductory talk from the Director. The COS-MOS Constitution was approved, and the following officers were elected:

• Vice-Presidents: John Cleary-Baker Ph.D., Lucius Farish
• Co-Directors: Janet Gregory, Brian Simmonds (elected for two years)
• Committee Members: Lionel Beer, Charles Carpenter, Lincoln Richford, Sylvia Shaw (elected for one year)

Following a proposal from Mr. Arnold West, Dr. G.G. Doel, M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P., D.M.R.E., was unanimously invited to become the first COS-MOS President, and he accepted this invitation.

After a break for refreshments, reports of recent UFO activity were presented, including the playback of tapes from Lucius Farish and Philip Rodgers. The evening was described as lively and promising for the future of COS-MOS.

Members wishing to obtain copies of the Constitution could do so by sending a P.O. for 1/-d to the Director.

Articles of Particular Interest to Members:

The document outlines key articles of the society's structure:

• Article 3(b): Members elect the President, two Vice-Presidents, and the National Executive Committee at the Annual General Meeting.
• Article 3(c): The National Executive Committee, consisting of the Director, two Co-Directors, and up to four other members, handles the society's administration.
• Article 3(d): The Director chairs the Committee. Co-Directors manage the roles of Vice-Chairman, Secretary, and Treasurer. Co-Directors are elected for two years, and ordinary Committee members for one year.
• Article 5(a)-(c): The Annual General Meeting is convened in London in the autumn. Ordinary General Meetings can be called at the Committee's discretion, and Extra-ordinary General Meetings require a written demand from at least ten members, signed by the Director or a Co-Director.
• Article 5(d): Preliminary notification for the Annual General Meeting must be given at least four weeks in advance. Nominations for the next Committee are prepared by the end of September and circulated to members at least a fortnight prior to the meeting. Additional nominations can be accepted from the floor.

Appointment of Officers

At a Committee meeting held on November 1st, the following appointments were made:

• Vice-Chairman / Hon. Treasurer: Brian Simmonds
• Hon. Secretary / Group Organiser: Janet Gregory
• Membership Secretary: Sylvia Shaw
• Journal Editor: Ed. Blandford
• Southern Field Officer: Charles Carpenter
• Northern Field Officer: Lincoln Richford
• Officer: Eric Richards
• Meetings Organiser: Jim Saunderson

Research

The research section will be supervised by the Director, with Brian French as his assistant. Research will focus on data from sky-watches, contact experiments by Field Officers, and reports from Study Groups. A separate research program focusing on contact is also underway. Suggestions for study lines are welcomed, and progress will be reported in the journal. The success of these efforts depends on member participation in sky-watches and Study Groups. COS-MOS aims to contribute to solving the UFO enigma and encourages active help and ideas from its members.

Journal Content

The editor acknowledges criticism that the journal lacks sufficient analytical and technical articles. He states that the journal staff consists solely of himself and relies on contributions from members and other journals. He notes that few publishable contributions have been received, with theories and conjectures being plentiful but repetitive. He commends the contributions of Mr. A.G. Mobey and Mr. Eric Livingston, who has provided updates on the UFO scene from Australia.

Forthcoming Meetings

Several meetings are scheduled for early 1970 at Kensington Central Library, London:

• Saturday, January 3rd, 1970: COS-HOS (Philip Rodgers, Mollie Thompson)
• Saturday, January 10th, 1970: BUFORA (Tim Childerhouse)
• Saturday, January 31st, 1970: COS-MOS (Roger Stanway)
• Saturday, February 7th, 1970: BUFORA (Norman Oliver)
• Saturday, February 28th, 1970: COS-MOS (Arthur Shuttlewood)

All meetings are at 7 p.m. at Kensington Central Library, Campden Hill Road, London, W.8.

Warminster: Is it worth going there?

Norman Oliver addresses the question of whether Warminster is still a significant location for UFO spotting. He believes that the West country area between Stonehenge and Glastonbury, including Warminster, and Sussex (particularly the South Downs) are prime areas for sky-watching. He notes that while Warminster's proximity to army territory might lead to misidentification, he has personally witnessed UFOs there twice, as have several acquaintances. He suggests that these sightings corroborate Arthur Shuttlewood's claims about the area's Ufological significance. Oliver emphasizes the importance of accurate reporting, vigilance against hoaxers, and detailed documentation of genuine sightings.

UFOs Over The Americas

This section describes a contact case from Lima, Peru, in 1949, involving a man known as "C.A.V." who encountered occupants of a disc-shaped craft. The beings are described as 'mummy-like', approximately 5½ft tall, with a unique physical appearance and method of reproduction (dividing themselves in two). They spoke English and Spanish and expressed concern about human atomic experiments. The witness reported a short trip in their UFO, which lacked interior furnishings. The beings referred to humans as 'backward' in the far future.

That's My Flying Saucer!

This short piece details the recovery of a 3-foot model flying saucer by Mr. Edward Jaggers. The model weighs about 1 cwt., contains a battery and wiring, and emits a whining noise. Mr. Jaggers, the constructor, lives in Glastonbury. The information is credited to The Sun, October 1969, with credit to Vera Robinson, Brighton.

Journal Source Information

The article on pages 18 and 19 (not included in this scan) was taken from the Canadian journal SAUCERS, SPACE & SCIENCE No. 55, 1969, published by Gene Duplantier.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the establishment and activities of the COS-MOS organization, including its inaugural meeting, constitution, and officer appointments. There is a strong emphasis on member participation in research activities like sky-watches and study groups. The issue also features reports on UFO sightings and encounters, including a detailed contactee case from Peru and local sightings in Warminster. The editor's stance is one of encouraging contributions and aiming to publish more analytical and technical articles in the journal, while acknowledging the limitations of a one-person editorial team. The overall tone is one of active engagement in ufological research and community building.