Flying Saucer News - No 06 - 1954 Summer

Magazine Overview

Title: FLYING SAUCER NEWS
Issue: NUMBER SIX
Date: SUMMER/AUTUMN 1954
Publisher: THE JOURNAL OF THE BRITISH FLYING SAUCER BUREAU & FLYING SAUCER CLUB

Editorial: "Chaos & Confusion"

The editorial addresses the increasing interest in flying saucers, noting a tendency towards "cultishness" and a surge of "weird and wonderful claims and stories." The editor expresses concern over the "hysterical note" in much of the reporting, particularly claims of telepathic or spirit world contact with "Saucerians." While not ruling out possibilities, the editorial urges a sane and analytical approach, questioning why beings from the spirit world or other planes would possess superior knowledge of flying saucers. It highlights the contradictory nature of messages received through the spirit world, suggesting a potential "huge joke" at the expense of earthbound mortals. The core message is that saucers are real and not of earthly origin, but integrating the myriad of claims into a coherent picture is frustrating. The editorial emphasizes the need for impartiality and acknowledges that despite government and authority efforts, understanding the ultimate facts about saucers remains in the hands of those who operate them.

Key Articles and Reports

B.O.A.C. "FLYING JELLYFISH" Report

This section details the highly publicized sighting by the crew and passengers of the B.O.A.C. Stratocruiser 'Centaurus' on June 30th, 1954, over Labrador. Captain James Howard documented the event, describing a formation of black objects flying parallel to the aircraft for about 18 minutes. The objects, including a large one and six smaller ones, kept station at a distance of five to ten miles. The large object continuously changed its shape, or rotated, presenting different profiles, while the smaller escorting objects circled it. The phenomenon was likened to a jellyfish swimming in the sea. First Officer Lee Boyd radioed Goose Bay, which confirmed no military aircraft were in the area and the Stratocruiser was the only return on radar. Upon learning of the sighting, a fighter aircraft was dispatched. About 6-8 minutes after the radio call, the large object closed in considerably, though its shape remained indistinct. The objects diminished rapidly as the fighter approached. Press reports offered confusing explanations, but the crew was convinced they were not cloud formations or birds. Interrogation by U.S. Airforce and RAF Intelligence followed. Capt. Howard was not prepared to theorize, but other crew members felt they were "craft" or "machines." The Navigator, George Allen, was convinced they were a "base ship with a number of satellites."

"CRAB SHIPS" Mystery

This report from Canada describes a nickel miner's account of seeing three 13 ft. men with three sets of arms step from a 25 ft. diameter spaceship. The ship had electronic ear-like spurs and six legs. The miner claimed one of the visitors fixed him with a hypnotic stare. The article notes the alarming similarity of the described ship to other sightings, particularly the "Vicar Sees 'Flying Crab'" report.

Vicar Sees 'Flying Crab'

Reverend Cedric Wright, vicar of Seighford, reported a "great, illuminated crab-like thing with feelers" on June 25th. It hovered about 80 ft. above the ground, emitting a light like burnished gold, and moved back and forth for nearly an hour. His son described it as a dome-like shape, half an orange, about 25 ft. wide, with a halo and a noise. The report also mentions a similar object seen over London near Regents Park, described as a long-range object that changed shape, emitted silver rays, and had smaller objects detaching from its main body.

Saucer over Hampshire and Somerset

On the night of May 19-20, two independent witnesses, Miss Doreen Heffer and Nigel Frapple, reported seeing a huge circular flying machine, at least 50 ft. in diameter, surrounded by a brilliant flame-coloured light. It hovered gently and then moved off at speed with a slight swishing sound. Miss Heffer described the object as flame-coloured with a deep red mark in the centre, and it appeared attached to another light surrounded by a flame-coloured glow. A diagram was provided. The object moved steadily forward at the speed of a transport plane. A report was sent to R.A.F. headquarters.

Strange Machine Seen Over Bristol Channel

The "Bristol Evening Post" reported Mr. E.G. Emery's sighting of a saucer-shaped object in the Bristol Channel. He described it as having a red hot bottom radiating a heat-haze, a turret on top, and two projections like wireless aerials. The object, estimated to be the size of two double-deck buses and aluminium coloured, disappeared after two minutes. The B.F.S.B. is expected to investigate.

"CRAB SHIPS" ?

This section connects the Canadian nickel miner's report of a spaceship with alien occupants to the "Vicar Sees 'Flying Crab'" sighting, highlighting the similarity in descriptions and posing whether these are signs of a new type of saucer.

British Sightings

• This section compiles numerous brief reports of UFO sightings across the UK in May, June, and July 1954:
• May 18 (Camborne, Cornwall): Yellow ball of fire with a brilliant tail, 20 yds. length, streaked across the sky for 2 miles.
• May 30 (Canvey Island, Essex): Small globe-like light seen to cross the island at speed, gaining height considerably.
• June 15 (Four Elms, Kent): Bright yellowy light, attended by two smaller blue lights, rose from the ground and moved swiftly towards London with a rushing noise.
• June 23 (Hengistbury Head, Hants.): Large brilliant white cigar-shaped object, larger than any aircraft, remained stationary for three minutes before shooting off at terrific speed.
• June 26 (Leeds Area): Flame-coloured object seen low on the horizon, observed through binoculars as cone-shaped with red and orange flames flickering from its base. It maneuvered before moving off.
• June 27 (Hindhead, Hants.): Bright light, intensity of a bright star, moved rapidly across the sky, appearing to wander and correct its course, with a noise similar to a jet aircraft.
• July 2 (Wallsend-on-Tyne): Three men saw a crescent-shaped object turning in circles at great height, spinning on its nose, and shooting off at high speed without sound.
• July ?? (Hope, Derbys.): Villagers reported a "brilliantly lit cylindrical object" moving silently across the sky on three evenings.
• July 7th (London): A "balloony" episode identified as a cosmic ray balloon from Cardington University, Bristol.

POSTAL Saucerers

This section lists readers who wish to correspond with others on saucer-related subjects, providing their names and addresses. Notable individuals include A. Richard Nickless from Ontario, Canada; Mrs. June Crew and Mrs. F.E. Hansen from Buckinghamshire, England; L.E. Afford from Hereford, England; Edward Fournier Jr. from Rhode Island, U.S.A.; and Cpl. John Burch from M.E.A.F. 25.

Adamski Visit Postponed

A "STOP PRESS" announcement reveals that the proposed visit of George Adamski to the UK has been postponed until the following year due to his developing a chronic chest trouble. His medical adviser stated that a change of climate might be fatal. Werner Laurie, the organizers, had offered to arrange air transport, but Adamski's doctor was adamant against the risk. The visit had been arranged for him to speak at the Albert Hall.

B.F.S.B. NEWSLETTER

This section includes "More Saucer-men Claims," "News from Australasia," and "Saucers over BERLIN," along with a "Star Letter."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the increasing number of UFO sightings, the diverse and often contradictory nature of witness accounts and alleged communications, and the ongoing efforts by organizations like the British Flying Saucer Bureau to investigate and document these phenomena. The editorial stance, as expressed in "Chaos & Confusion," is one of cautious skepticism towards sensationalism and unverified claims, particularly those derived from psychic or spiritual channels. It champions a rational, analytical approach to the subject while affirming the reality of flying saucers as non-terrestrial craft. The magazine aims to present factual reports of sightings and investigations, encouraging readers to maintain a balanced perspective amidst the growing public interest and speculation surrounding UFOs.

This issue of FLYING SAUCER NEWS, dated Summer/Autumn 1954, presents a collection of international reports on unidentified flying objects (UFOs), alongside updates from the Bureau of Flying Saucer Research (BFSB) and its affiliated organizations. The magazine highlights a growing global interest in the phenomenon and the efforts of researchers to document and understand these sightings.

Overseas Reports

The magazine details numerous sightings from various countries:

United Kingdom: * July 12, Cheltenham: A silver disc, likened to a "flying dustbin lid," was observed moving at "terrific speed" before a jet plane passed. * July 13, Great Easton, Leics.: A farmer reported a "full moon"-like disc, saucer-shaped and transparent, following a jet plane and appearing larger than it. * July 26, Tonbridge, Kent: Two lights merged into one and moved silently, disappearing and reappearing, described as moving "like a gnat." * July 13, Hinkley, Leics.: A glittering object remained stationary for two minutes before vanishing.

Finland: * Luminous objects, described as "flying saucers" and "flying-cigars," were seen over Southern Finland, with one cigar-shaped object leaving a streak of fire.

Germany: * Air-line officials at Dusseldorf airport reported a saucer flying at high speed at approximately 18,000 ft. on June 9th.

Switzerland: * June 11: Fifty people in Zurich reported a flying saucer circling the city for 20 minutes. * August 15: The Swiss Air Force is investigating reports of a saucer-shaped object with rapidly changing colours seen over Zurich.

Australia: * June 14, Sydney: Residents reported multi-coloured lights, followed by two witnesses seeing a "railway carriage"-shaped object flying from the South with blue-green flames. * March 17, Alice Springs: An Aborigine reported a "weird flying machine" approximately 40 ft. in diameter, emitting smoke and causing a strong wind. * May 15, Roma: A bright yellow, vee-shaped craft, the size of a large motor car, was seen flying soundlessly at high speed and low altitude, with two red rear lights.

Canada: * April 27, Abbotsford: Two pure white, round objects were seen united by a ribbon-like structure, moving in a jerky, alternating manner.

Southern Rhodesia: * Two witnesses reported a silver object, described as resembling a small aircraft fuselage without wings, accelerating to an estimated 3,500 mph.

Johannesburg: * A flying saucer bearing the figure "1" followed by "3" or "B" was reported near Kimberley.

U.S.A.: * July 29: The captain and officers of the Dutch ship 'Groote Beer' observed a flying saucer for 14 minutes as they approached New York. One officer noted it travelled straight up half a degree in two minutes.

Berlin: * Mysterious objects have been seen regularly over Berlin for several weeks, flying at great height with manoeuvres and speed that experts believe are not human-piloted. German expert Rudolf Hermes believes these are identical to "flying saucers." Observations were made by multiple witnesses, suggesting it's not hallucination. The sightings began on May 15th, with reports of three luminous discs in formation flying in a zig-zag course.

Saucer Photo

A photograph taken by a Norwegian cameraman from an aircraft at 15,000 ft. shows a disc moving across the horizon at great speed. The film, which also yielded similar results from two other photographers, was shown in Oslo and London.

B.F.S.B. Newsletter

The newsletter, dated August 1954, addresses members' correspondence and apologizes for delays. It announces that a new membership card and serial number will be issued soon due to the merger of BFSB and FSC. The newsletter also discusses the B.O.A.C. Stratocruiser sighting, quoting Captain Howard who stated that people are increasingly taking these matters seriously, calling it a "serious matter."

The B.O.A.C. Stratocruiser Sighting:

Captain Howard is convinced he and his colleagues saw something "exceedingly strange." Chief Officer Lee-Boyd and Navigator Allen were guest speakers at a BFSB meeting, presenting their accounts and sketches. Mr. Wintle's attempt to explain the sighting as a mirage due to the eclipse was not taken up for discussion. Lee-Boyd and Allen were made Honorary Members of the Bureau.

Adamski Meeting

Following a letter from T. Werner Laurie Ltd. regarding George Adamski's doctor refusing permission for him to travel due to ill-health, Desmond Leslie writes from California. Leslie describes Adamski as a "sane and balanced and honest man" and vouches for the authenticity of his negatives and equipment. Leslie states Adamski is "not a well man" and is "burning himself up," with his doctor forbidding travel to England this year, fearing he might "come back in a coffin." A visit to England is hoped for next year if Adamski rests.

The Bruton, Somerset, Saucer

Nigel Frapple, an 18-year-old, reported a sighting investigated by the author and Mr. Watts. Despite a genuine feeling that it was a clear sighting, publicity was withheld due to Frapple becoming involved in unrelated police court proceedings.

The Albert K. Bender (U.S.A.) Recording

Albert K. Bender has reportedly closed down I.F.S.B. and has no further interest in flying saucers, wishing to forget the subject. His tape to the Bureau added little new information.

The Weston-Super-Mare Recordings

Dr. R. Irving-Bell and others have heard further recordings taken from a medium whilst under trance, which are described as "beautiful" in diction, clarity, and ideals.

Investigatory Committee

Mr. Knewstub is assembling a team of investigators. Member Keith Purchas is noted for his extensive travel at his own expense to investigate sightings. The organization is growing, but secretarial work is becoming a major problem due to the volume of correspondence.

Formation of Local Groups

Enquiries from members have led the Committee to issue guidance for forming local discussion groups. Suggestions include regular meetings, using books or press reports for discussion topics, and obtaining leaflets from the Librarian. The BFSB can supply speakers, and local groups are encouraged to cover their own expenses. Eventually, forming a local club or society is suggested.

Miscellany

The author notes the increase in saucer activity in Great Britain and mentions receiving the New Zealand magazine. He thanks Eric Biddle for the first issue of the British "URANUS" magazine. The Bureau's first Technical Report is prepared, with publication negotiations pending.

Mantell Parallel?

A July 3rd. press report mentioned a jet fighter crashing near Utica, New York, during an "ACTIVE AIR DEFENCE INTERCEPT MISSION." The U.S.A.F. stated there was a "successful intercept" but did not know what was intercepted. The pilot and radar-man survived. The article notes a superficial resemblance to the Mantell case, particularly the pilot's experience of heat on his neck, similar to a previous report.

Flying Froth (Detergent Saucers!)

Reports from Shropshire, Herefordshire, and Worcester describe "saucers" seen floating on high, possibly caused by froth from sewage works. A garage man reported seeing six take off, and they remained aloft for over three hours.

Rumour Level

Sensational bulletins from an American group claim that at Edwards Air Force Base, five types of F.S. are under top-level inspection with "etherian operators." The report suggests "consternation, confusion and collapse" among scientists and technicians facing new super-science principles enabling F.S. to de-materialise, potentially causing economic chaos.

More Saucer Contacts Claimed

• Truman Bethurum's story: Claims of meeting a "gorgeous woman" named Aura Rhanes from the planet Clarion, with whom he has had eleven meetings and published his experiences in a book.
• Dan Fry's story: Released recently, Fry claims contact in 1950 where his saucer settled to earth. He was addressed by a loudspeaker and taken on a tour at 8,000 mph. His book, "The White Sands Incident," explains saucer operation and gravity counteraction.
• Sahara Contact: A report of a lecture by Dr. Cannon mentions an American scientist working in the Sahara desert having contact with a "Saucerian." The scientist, described as "one of the most sceptical people living," handed over a metal container.

News from Australasia

New Zealand: * May 24, Taranaki: Three pilots reported seeing 15 oval, red-orange discs with reddish flames, hovering at about 7,000 feet. They were in single-line formation and climbed rapidly before disappearing. * Mr. John E. Stuart has formed "Flying Saucer Investigators" and compiled a theory on saucers concerning Mars, which has been sent to the N.Z. Prime Minister.

Australia: * The Australian Flying Saucer Club has amalgamated with the Australian FS Bureau. Mr. E.R. Jarrold reported a "worst flood of hysterical mail" after a report of a "piece of a flying saucer." The Bureau has a fragment of a mysterious 30 ft. long unidentified object observed over Shepparton, Victoria, on May 12th, which is to be analysed.

Saucer Formations Seen Regularly Over Berlin

Unidentified objects have been seen over Berlin for several weeks, exhibiting mysterious manoeuvres and speed. German expert Rudolf Hermes confirms these are "flying saucers." Observations began May 15th, with multiple witnesses reporting three luminous discs in formation on a zig-zag course.

Artificial Satellites?

The regular sightings of 'saucers' lend weight to the artificial satellite rumour, though the zig-zag flight pattern doesn't entirely fit.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the widespread nature of UFO sightings across different continents, the efforts of dedicated researchers and organizations like the BFSB to document and investigate these phenomena, and the increasing seriousness with which the public and authorities are beginning to view these events. The magazine adopts a stance of diligent reporting and investigation, presenting witness accounts and expert opinions while acknowledging the mysterious and extraordinary nature of the subject matter. There is a clear emphasis on international cooperation and the sharing of information within the UFO research community.

Title: FLYING SAUCER NEWS
Issue: 21
Volume/Date: Summer/Autumn 1954
Publisher: THE BRITISH FLYING SAUCER BUREAU & FLYING SAUCER CLUB
Country: ENGLAND

Main Articles and Features

"Weird Possibilities...."

The issue opens with a striking quote from N. Meade Layne, featured in "PREDICTION," asserting that flying saucers are real and that the skies are teeming with beings from other worlds. Layne suggests that governmental authorities are close to collapse due to the knowledge they withhold about these beings and their intentions. He emphasizes that understanding these phenomena requires listening to sources of information that are spiritual, mental, or psychic in nature, rather than religious.

"SEALING US UP!"

This section explores a spiritual explanation for flying saucers, drawing from "Atlantis to the Latter Days." The idea presented is that FS are "Sentinels" utilizing "Magnetic Conveyances" that travel between material and spiritual planes. These conveyances can materialize to perform functions within Earth's magnetic envelope and dematerialize when beyond it. Their purpose is not personal contact but to act as sentinels, using magnetic force to repair any breaks or leaks in the Earth's magnetic envelope. This is framed as a protective measure, shielding Earth from "contaminating thought rays" emanating from the planet. A brief, humorous explanation from a Stockholm paper is also included, questioning if saucers are merely television pictures.

"LORD DOWDING STATES HIS VIEWS....."

An article from the Sunday Dispatch features Air Chief Marshall Lord Dowding's reasons for believing in flying saucers. He cites evidence from Keyhoe's "Flying Saucers from Outer Space" and states his conviction that these objects are real and extraterrestrial. Dowding suggests they might be investigating atomic explosions or conducting a routine survey. He strongly warns against any attempts to fire upon these objects, deeming it criminal folly and emphasizing the potential for untold blessings from contact.

"DUBLIN SAUCER A FAKE ?"

A report from a Dublin member suggests that a photograph of the "Dublin Saucer" previously published was a deliberate fake, possibly a Christmas tree decoration. The article notes that the 'witness' was an actress who was performing in a Dublin theatre, raising suspicions of collusion with the photographer. The editors express caution about libel and invite further facts.

"WE HEAR....."

This section provides a collection of brief news items and observations:

• Arthur Clarke has modified his views, now admitting saucers may be real, though still considering Adamski a hoaxer.
• Science Fiction magazines like NEW WORLDS, NEBULA, and VARGO STATTEN are increasingly featuring UFO-related content.
• A radio play on AFN featured a jet-pilot taken aboard a saucer.
• A new Technicolor documentary titled "Project Saucer" is being filmed.
• A lecture in London by Rip van Ronkel reportedly nauseated many saucerclub members.
• George Adamski's forthcoming book is said to contain "long discourses by the space men."
• A record by Peter Sellers, "Jakka and the Flying Saucers," is mentioned.

"STAR LETTER"

A letter from A. Fitter of Birmingham critiques the book "FS ON THE MOON." While acknowledging its useful information, Fitter protests what he calls "extraneous material," gross exaggeration, and deliberate dramatizing. He dismisses the idea of cigar-shaped vessels being hostile as "sheer nonsense," arguing that if they were, they would have attacked long ago. He suggests that fires in cycle sheds, if caused by FS, were accidental and not hostile acts, possibly due to powerful magnetic fields. Fitter also criticizes the book's explanations of "Death Ray Aeroform" and points out several inaccuracies and a lack of knowledge regarding common items like stroboscopes and camera obscuras. He also questions the author's understanding of basic physics, such as the sun's heat traveling through space and the moon's rotation.

"URANUS" Magazine Announcement

FLYING SAUCER NEWS acknowledges a new contemporary periodical, "Uranus," edited by Eric Biddle and published by Markham House Press. It is described as potentially the world's first commercially published saucer periodical, aiming for a more academic and interpretative approach to the subject, complementing rather than competing with existing journals.

"TRUE" Magazine Article

The issue notes a book-length article in "TRUE" Magazine (May 1954) about Project Bluebook, authored by Capt. Ruppelt. This article reportedly challenges certain items in Keyhoe's book, highlighting differences of opinion within official circles and potentially confusing readers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores a wide range of theories regarding flying saucers, from spiritual and metaphysical explanations to more conventional extraterrestrial hypotheses. There is a clear editorial stance that encourages open-mindedness and investigation into the phenomenon, while also maintaining a critical eye towards sensationalism and potential hoaxes. The publication aims to present diverse viewpoints and reports, fostering discussion within the UFO community. The editors, Richard Hughes and Capt. E.L. Plunkett, are actively involved in promoting the British Flying Saucer Bureau and Club.