Cos-Mos - Vol 2 No 02 - 1971

Magazine Overview

COS-MOS, Volume 2, Number 2, Summer 1971, is a magazine focused on UFO phenomena, extra-terrestrial contact, and related subjects. The issue is published by COS-MOS and features a cover illustration depicting a spaceship in a cosmic setting.

Contents and Articles

Themes of Contact: Mental Contact

This section, presented by Norman Oliver, introduces a new approach to exploring 'Themes of Contact' in successive issues. The first theme is 'Mental Contact,' which includes messages dictated mentally. The magazine aims to present different methods of approach without asserting any single form of contact as 'Truth.' The editors acknowledge that viewpoints on what is acceptable in Ufology vary considerably. For this theme, Ouija Board messages are included as they are believed to be received via the mental processes of operators, while mechanical devices are excluded. Telepathy is distinguished from psychic connotations or mediumship, with direct mental contact to be featured later. The article stresses that the issue examines possibilities rather than stating definitive answers to the Flying Saucer enigma.

#### New Light on a Familiar Subject?

Presented by Ed. L. Blandford, this article shares extracts from 'Spirit Communications' taken down via mental mediumship in April-August 1970. Blandford presents these as part of a daily 'diary' containing interesting information, some of which he believes to be truthful and some questionable. His chief 'Spirit Guide,' Gordevo, introduces a new instructor named Ulo. Ulo, who claims to be from a far-off planet and identifies as a neuter or bi-sexual being, explains that his race lives in peace and harmony, having abolished war. He states that his kind visits Earth in small numbers as part of a plan for Earth's final salvation, which will take many hundreds of years. Ulo warns of other beings who do not wish humanity well but assures they will not be allowed to sway the balance. He acknowledges the recipient's doubt about his identity, attributing it to a search for Truth. Ulo describes his own world as beautiful and notes that divisions of the mind on Earth prevent the exploitation of its resources for the benefit of all.

On May 23rd, Ulo clarifies that 'flying saucers' are not of his world but are projections that appear as solid objects upon entering Earth's atmosphere, calling them a 'passing phase.' He connects UFOs with psychic activity and poltergeists, though he notes that contact had been of a purely psychic nature. He mentions that some beings alighting from craft are those who do not wish humanity well, while others are not real. He describes humans as stubborn and perverse, requiring time to erase aggressiveness. He also mentions 'Umsos,' beings from other worlds who visit out of curiosity, some of whom could be beneficial.

On May 25th, Ulo discusses his own 'placement' within the Orians, stating that all beings are comparative. He addresses 'troublesome ufos,' reiterating they are projections, but those that land are of a different species ('Umsos'). He recounts an incident where he encountered a fish-like alien creature attracted to Earth's oceans, which was part of an expedition. Ulo notes that this creature's intelligence matched humans, but it moved in another plane of being and would normally be invisible.

Ouija Boards

This section discusses experiments with Ouija Boards. Bernard Morton's letter from a previous issue is referenced, where he concluded they were dangerous. A small group of COS-MOS members also experimented. Morton's group received intriguing answers initially but later experienced negative phenomena, including a message that 'Mr.X is bad, evil,' when Mr.X was known to be spiritually evolved. The Board gave answers opposite to the correct ones when queried. Morton analyzed 167 questions and answers, categorizing them as 'Spiritual' (47%), 'Thought Transference' (30%), and 'Unexplainable' (23%). He warns of the danger of Spiritual elements that can manipulate users and feed on ectoplasm. An instance is cited where a Ouija session ended with the glass smashing to pieces.

The COS-MOS group's experiences differed, being more light-hearted. Their Q&A session with a 'contact' from 'U-R-A-N-U-S' involved questions about spaceships, Earth contact, and the nature of the being. The contact claimed to be from Uranus and identified as a hermaphrodite, leading to laughter when the group realized the difficulty in obtaining clear answers.

Looking Back: Warminster Sightings

This article, written in 1966 and rediscovered in April 1971, reviews a BBC program about Warminster UFO sightings. It includes descriptions from witnesses such as 'exactly like a railway carriage,' 'silver plane and a cerise-coloured one,' 'green shimmering light,' 'cigar-shaped, glowing at each end,' and 'a white object with no lights like a saucer or lampshade.' Some opinions are quoted, including one suggesting that if humans send ships to planets, life on other planets might send craft to Earth, and another dismissing the sightings as 'a load of tripe.'

John Cleary-Baker, BUFORA's Evaluation Officer, states that the objects are efficiently maneuverable and beyond current technology. He believes there is evidence of something strange happening globally, with advanced flying machines seen worldwide. Journalist Arthur Shuttlewood links Warminster's unique status to its reputation for eleven leys and suggests pre-historic monuments might be associated with alien intelligencies. Shuttlewood recounts his own experience of seeing a large cigar-shaped object with a yellow or amber hump.

The article notes that most people in Warminster are uninterested in UFOs and view those who ask about them as odd. However, Mr. Emlyn Rees, Chairman of Warminster UDC, believes the publicity has benefited the town. Several residents reported experiences, including Mrs. Heads hearing sounds like hail or cats scratching, and Mr. & Mrs. Payne seeing massive discs approach them. Nigel Mingay described an object appearing from behind one tree and disappearing before reaching another. Gordon Faulkner defended his widely publicized photograph of a UFO, asserting it was not a fake. Colonel Allen is presented as a skeptic who believes there are no authenticated sightings by qualified individuals and even faked a photograph himself. Miss Anderson expresses pity for those making categorical statements without investigation. The article concludes by commenting on Colonel Allen's contortions to fake a photo, likening his 'photo' to a hazy goldfish.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's stance is to explore all possibilities related to contact with extra-terrestrials or non-humans without prejudice. It aims to present different viewpoints and methods of approach, particularly in controversial fields like mental contact. The editorial team encourages patience from readers whose beliefs may differ from the presented material. There is a clear interest in documenting witness accounts, analyzing potential explanations for UFO phenomena, and exploring psychic and spiritual aspects of contact. The magazine also exhibits a critical yet open-minded approach, presenting both believers and skeptics, and acknowledging the limitations of current knowledge.

This issue of COS-MOS, identified as issue number 10 and dated March 1970, focuses on various aspects of UFO phenomena, including the nomenclature of UFO entities, detailed sighting reports, and the concept of 'mental contact'. The magazine is published by COS-MOS and priced at £1.25.

Some Notes on the Names of UFO Entities

Dan Butcher's article explores the names associated with UFO entities and contactees. He observes a tendency for these names to be similar to those of the contactee themselves, citing examples like Buck Nelson's 'Little Buck' or 'Bucky', and Dana Howard's 'Diane' and 'Elen'. The article draws parallels with mythological figures and legends, such as Elan the Armourer and the Germanic Holde/Holle, linking them to UFO-like phenomena. Adamski's entity 'Orthon' is discussed in relation to Thor and Orthros. The phenomenon of an entity's name echoing a place name is highlighted with the example of 'Orthone' or 'Orton' from Corasse, France. Other examples include Dr. Stranges' contact 'Val-Thor', Bob Renaud's 'Sutko' compared to 'Suttka', and Margaret Barnett's contact 'Diophanes of Sirius 2' echoing 'Diophantes of Sirius 6'. The article also notes the recurring initial 'MAR' in many contactees' names, as observed by John Keel, suggesting a possible symbolic meaning related to space and time. A curious apparent echo of place-names is noted in the Betty Hill and Captain James Hooton cases, both involving the name 'Homan'. The article concludes by mentioning that not all UFO names are exotic, citing the 'Smith' contact during the Texas 'airship' flap.

The Skjervøy Case

This section details a significant UFO sighting that occurred on August 21 or 22, 1963, at Skjervøy, Norway. The report, from observer Helge Mikalsen, describes seeing a flame from a mountain, followed by a grey object that ascended rapidly. The object later revealed two smaller objects being drawn into it. Mikalsen reported being paralysed by a green light beam emanating from the object. The large object was estimated to be about 30 feet high and 105-120 feet long, with oval windows. The object hovered motionless for about 10 minutes before accelerating away. The report includes sketches of the object and is considered reliable by TRONDHEIM UFO FORENING and UFO-INFORMASJON, Oslo.

Mental Contact

This section features several pieces related to 'mental contact', which involves messages purportedly received from extraterrestrial sources through individuals in a trance state.

Ziofran of the Interstellar Wayfarers

This is a dictation given to Joan Howard in March 1970, presented as a message from 'Ziofran' of the 'Interstellar Wayfarers'. The message speaks of an impending 'light-awakening' on Earth, urging peace and understanding. It criticizes current human civilization, particularly in America, and suggests that Interstellar Beings are imposing new regulations on Earth's actions. The message emphasizes the need for mind-awakening from illusions to facts and speaks of a 'wholesome flying-venture' involving billions of spacecraft organized by 'Andromeda-Control'. The message concludes with a blessing and an introduction of Ziofran as being from the Milky Way division of Light Communications.

Editorial Commentary on Ziofran

The editor acknowledges that some readers might dismiss the Ziofran message as 'crap' but includes it as an example of alleged mental contact. The editor humorously compares Ziofran's 'dictation' to Peter Sellars' impersonations, suggesting that while the source might be questionable, there are still lessons to be learned from such communications.

Messages and Spirit Guides

The article muses on the nature of messages received through trance, drawing a parallel between UFO sightings and the changing forms of spirit guides, from Red Indians to 'Spacemen'. It questions whether many messages received relate not only to the 'after-life' but also to the welfare of Earth as seen through the eyes of 'Spacemen'. The case of George King, founder of the Aetherius Society, is mentioned as a prominent 'channel' for messages from Venus and Earth. A sidelight is added about a lady in Kensington who claimed direct contact with extra-terrestrials, suggesting that later messages from Autherius might not have originated from the same source as George King's.

Dreams and Contact

The possibility of making contact while in a dream state is explored. The experience of Maureen Garner is recounted, describing a vivid dream of a large, black, spaceship-like object. Another dream is described by Mrs. Garner, involving two UFOs and a piercing blue beam of light directed at a battleship, occurring shortly after the Apollo 8 astronauts' return. The article poses the question of whether this was coincidence or precognition.

Conclusions on Mental Contact and Ouija Boards

The author offers conclusions regarding the use of Ouija Boards, advising caution and the understanding that information is not always reliable and should not be taken as gospel. It is suggested that one should be prepared to abandon the method if it becomes objectionable. The author also stresses the importance of recording and verifying any advance information on sightings or contacts to ensure it was received before the event.

Project Warminster

This section announces 'PROJECT WARMINSTER', a BUFORA-backed initiative operating from May 1st to September 30th, 1971. The project aims to examine current UFO phenomena in the Warminster area and unusual historical accounts. The goal is to produce a critical appraisal and analysis in booklet form. Contact information for John Cleary-Baker is provided for those with recent sightings or experiences. A caravan will be permanently stationed on Battlesbury Hill. The project team includes a director, assistants, a photographic consultant, research advisers, and field officers.

Sky-Watches

Information is provided on 'Northern Sky-Watches' organized by Eric Richards, which will be held at short notice. Additionally, a 'NATIONAL SKY-WATCH DAY' at Biggin Hill is announced, organized by COS-MOS and BUFORA, with Norman Oliver and Peter Wain in charge. The Alouette Flying Club's licensed bar is mentioned as an added attraction, though previous Sky-Watch Days at Biggin Hill have not yielded remarkable Flying Saucer Reports. COS-MOS Sky-Watches are now held in cooperation with SIRIUS.

The Fair God (Part II)

This article, by W. Raymond Drake, continues the discussion on the Toltec myths of Quetzalcoatl. It describes Quetzalcoatl ruling in peace and prosperity, and his rivalry with Tezxatlipoca. The legend of Quetzalcoatl drinking a healing potion and seducing his sister is recounted, leading to his departure to the fabled land of Tlapallan on a raft of serpents, which the author speculates could have been a spaceship. Another legend tells of him ascending to the planet Venus from a funeral pyre. The article discusses the representation of Quetzalcoatl by the Nahuas, sometimes as the Sun God, and suggests that paintings might depict him alighting from a Flying Saucer. It touches upon the ancient stone-circles and their possible representation of spaceships, and the evidence of 'Spacemen' in ancient South America. The article notes that many rulers deliberately destroyed ancient records, forcing priests to preserve lore in hieroglyphics. The identity and date of Quetzalcoatl are presented as challenging for authorities, with theories linking him to the Third Age and Lemuria.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of UFO phenomena, with a particular interest in the names associated with entities and sightings, the detailed reporting of specific cases like Skjervøy, and the exploration of less conventional forms of contact such as mental transmissions and dreams. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various accounts and theories while maintaining a degree of critical assessment, particularly regarding mental contact and Ouija board usage. The magazine also touches upon ancient astronaut theories, linking mythological figures to potential extraterrestrial contact. The publication actively encourages reader participation through letters and sky-watch events.

COS-MOS is a magazine focused on UFOs, unexplained phenomena, and related topics. This issue, number 23, dated March 1971, features a cover story about a UFO sighting in Denton, England, and delves into theories surrounding the ancient figure Quetzalcoatl, as well as mysterious disappearances in areas like the Bermuda Triangle.

Quetzalcoatl: A Multifaceted Enigma

The issue begins by exploring the diverse and often contradictory theories surrounding the identity and origin of Quetzalcoatl. Various scholars and researchers are cited, proposing origins ranging from ancient Mesopotamian figures like Naram-Sin, Atlantean divine men, Phoenicians, and even an Essene witness to the crucifixion of Jesus. Mexican archaeologists offer a more grounded estimate, placing his leadership of the Mayas in Yucatan around A.D. 967. The article notes that Quetzalcoatl was known by many names across different cultures, including 'Kukulkan' among the Mayas, 'Gucumata' for the Quiches, 'Wakee' in Polynesia, 'Viracocha' in Peru, and 'Bochica' in Colombia. The text suggests that these varied claims point to a collective folk memory of 'White Strangers' who influenced civilizations worldwide. The Spanish conquest of 1519 is attributed, in part, to Montezuma's superstitious belief that Cortes was Quetzalcoatl returning.

U.F.O. Scares Girls and Ponies

A prominent article details an incident in Denton, England, where two girls, Elizabeth Aigbogum (13) and Diane Boulton, encountered an 'unidentified flying object' while riding ponies. Elizabeth described the object as a 'bright luminous orange cross with sparks coming out of it.' It initially appeared distant like a star, then disappeared and reappeared closer, about a hundred feet up. The object circled before vanishing with a bang. The encounter caused distress to the horses, with Diane's mount nearly bolting and Elizabeth's pony remaining calm.

Destination Unknown: The Mysterious Disappearance Zones

Written by Eric Livingstone, this section focuses on areas of mysterious disappearances, with the 'Deadly Bermuda Triangle' being the most well-known. The article posits that there are six such areas globally, characterized by a high percentage of disappearances of ships, aircraft, and people without a trace. These areas are geographically patterned, with three in the northern hemisphere and three in the southern, all roughly centered on 30 degrees latitude. The author explores potential explanations, including ocean currents and extreme temperature variabilities, but highlights the uncanny lack of wreckage, oil slicks, or any trace evidence, as well as the cut-off of radio and radar contact. The article suggests that the cause might be related to gravity, electro-magnetism, or other interactions not yet fully understood by science.

Several specific cases are detailed: the disappearance of the 23 ft. boat 'Witchcraft' near Miami in December 1967, the vanishing of the Mississippi River Steamboat 'Iron Mountain' in June 1872, numerous planes lost without trace flying to Guam from the area covering Japan and eastern China, and the disappearance of three thousand Chinese troops south of Nanking in December 1939. Another case involves a black car disappearing in a puff of smoke near Tokyo in November 1963, witnessed by three bank employees.

Mailbag and Ministry of Defence Correspondence

The 'Mailbag' section features a letter from W. Raymond Drake, who has split his manuscript 'SPACEMEN IN THE ANCIENT WEST' into two books: 'SPACEMEN IN THE ANCIENT WEST' and 'SPACEMEN IN GREECE AND ROME.' He also mentions his new comedy play 'EVE' and a science fiction novel titled 'TALLUS - 1980.'

A significant part of the Mailbag includes a letter from the Ministry of Defence to COS-MOS Research Officer Frank Morton, responding to inquiries about UFO sightings over Hackney in November 1970. The Ministry stated that while aircraft activity was present, no specific occurrence was reported by pilots. They could not positively identify the lights but suggested they might have been aircraft lights seen under unusual circumstances. Frank Morton comments on the Ministry's refusal to divulge pilot reports from Air Traffic Control.

Further Sightings and Events

The magazine also touches upon the Walthamstow boys' case involving a 'falling stone,' which was later dismissed as likely caused by cattle. However, the boys remained certain they had seen a fiery object in the sky around the time of the Hackney/Clapton sighting.

Upcoming Events and Resources

COS-MOS announces upcoming Sky-Watches, including a National Sky-Watch Day and events in the New Forest, Uffington White Horse, and Harting Downs. Contact information for Lincoln Richford and Frank Morton is provided for those interested in participating or experimenting. The magazine also lists the first three meetings of the COS-MOS 1971/2 series at Kensington Central Library and mentions a UFO & Astronomical Booklists & Tapes service.

Green Land Beyond the Pole

This section, attributed to B.W. Tibhitts, explores the theory that many UFOs originate from within the Earth. It discusses the idea of a doughnut-shaped Earth with unexplored land inhabited by a highly intelligent race. These beings are suggested to be the source of legends about fairies, demons, and gnomes. The article posits that UFO contactees may be deliberately misled about the origin of these beings, with their messages often containing warnings about the dangers of atomic energy misuse and pollution. The author notes the correlation between UFO appearances and natural or man-made catastrophes, suggesting these beings may be observing Earth closely.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of ancient history, mythology, and modern unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs. There is a clear interest in presenting diverse theories and eyewitness accounts, even those that are controversial or lack definitive proof. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to consider various possibilities and engage with the subject matter. The inclusion of correspondence with official bodies like the Ministry of Defence suggests an effort to bridge the gap between public interest and official responses to UFO phenomena. The magazine also promotes community engagement through events and resources for enthusiasts.