Flying Saucers - Vol 04 No 02 - 1956 09

Magazine Overview

Title: Flying Saucers
Issue: Vol. 4-No. 2
Date: September-December, 1956
Publisher: Civilian Saucer Investigation (N.Z.)
Type: Official Quarterly Journal

This issue is dedicated to the memory of MRS. ETHNE EARLE HAMBER, M.A., a founder and patron of the New Zealand Interplanetary Society and a CSI representative.

Editorial: Project Skywatch Swings Into Action

The editorial announces the successful launch of "Project Skywatch," a comprehensive survey of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) from August 1956 to February 1957. The project aims to gather observations from New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga, and Samoa, areas previously neglected. Copies of a special bulletin were sent to newspapers and broadcasting stations, and to meteorological stations and airport control towers to encourage public participation. The editorial expresses gratitude for the press's coverage and notes the genuine interest and co-operation from CSI representatives and members, enabling quick follow-up on reports.

Project Skywatch and Press Coverage

The editorial highlights the importance of receiving reports directly rather than relying on press cutting agencies, which often provide information too late for effective investigation. CSI maintains contact with kindred groups globally and uses a press cutting service covering England, Australia, and Japan. The need for essential equipment is mentioned, with a hope for assistance from influential individuals. The editorial revisits a February 1954 forecast for numerous UFO sightings during the Earth-Mars 'opposition,' noting its accuracy with reports of sightings and landings in the latter half of 1954. It suggests that official denials and contradictory statements are part of a long-range plan to prepare the public for eventual official disclosures, questioning whether the public is ready for such news.

About Ourselves: CSI's Aims and Claims

Civilian Saucer Investigation (CSI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to researching "Unidentified Flying Objects and Correlated happenings." Membership is £1 per annum, offering regular meetings and library facilities. Leading researchers worldwide agree on the appearance of physical vehicles controlled by superior intelligences. CSI believes these visitations are continuous and increasing, leading to extraordinary changes in human beliefs and technology. They emphasize that their beliefs are based on facts, and prejudice or the unprecedented nature of the events prevents official recognition by world leaders. CSI hopes authorities will eventually admit the facts with wisdom.

CSI Executive Staff

The issue lists the CSI Executive Staff: HAROLD H. FULTON (Director and Dominion President, Editor), LIONEL PAGE (Secretary), MRS. O. WEITZNER (Librarian), and committee members Mr. Henk Hinfelaar, Mr. Dan Saunders, Mr. William Doo, and Mr. Ray Thomas (Electronics and Sound Recording Officer). Mr. William Tennent resigned due to poor health but will assist when able.

CSI Publication "Flying Saucers" - First Fully Printed Issue

This issue marks the first fully printed edition of "Flying Saucers" since its inauguration in October 1952. While the printed cover of previous issues added prestige, full print is an expensive venture, but CSI feels the risk is justified. With print, the number of copies produced has doubled, and Associates are urged to find new subscribers. Advertising space is also available. The magazine's self-support is deemed essential, and members are encouraged to contribute to ensure its continued appearance.

Binoculars and Reproduction Policy

A special concession price for good binoculars is offered to members through CSI. Full permission is granted to other UFO researchers to quote or reproduce material from the publication, with credit given to the source. CSI also enjoys this privilege from kindred publications and thanks newspapers for their support, hoping they will interpret CSI's work as a contribution to human knowledge.

Monthly General Meeting

The August meeting, attended by about 50 members, included discussions on the venture into full print for the magazine and plans for a public meeting on October 31st, 1956. The use of name tags to foster friendliness was noted as a regular feature. The President surveyed official UFO investigations since 1947, highlighting contradictions and disparities in official statements, which he deemed inadequate. He also criticized the astronomical world for lacking enterprise and courage in addressing UFO evidence, suggesting a "shake-up" is overdue.

New Zealand Sighting Reports

Many Stopped Their Cars and Watched Awe-Inspired (Napier)

A report from Napier on November 22, 1955, describes a green ball-shaped UFO observed by Mr. McDonald and his family, which later reappeared and was witnessed by about 20 other people. The object revolved slowly, changed color, and then moved off at terrific speed.

A Very Frightening Experience (Auckland)

Brian Lovelock, an airman, reported seeing an object on June 10, 1956, near Waikumete, described as an upside-down saucer with a bell-shaped top, emitting a blue-white light. It hovered, moved eastward, and then took off at terrific speed.

Christchurch People Witness Strange Sights

Miss L. Mooney reported witnessing unusual lights, colored blue and white, moving across the sky in zig-zag motions on three separate occasions in May 1956.

Strange Sights in Wellington After-noon Sky Lead to Hoax Accusation

On June 30th, during the International Flying Saucer Sighting Day, three rocket-like, cigar-shaped objects emitting an exhaust-like glow were seen over Kelburn by multiple witnesses. Official explanations suggested shattered radar balloon pieces, but CSI's investigation located an observer, Mr. V. R. Jamieson, who confirmed seeing three cigar-shaped objects moving at high speed with a faint greenish glow.

Lights Over "Blind Channel" (Tasman Bay)

Mr. and Mrs. I. M. Bethwaite reported seeing a bright yellow light descend in a curve and hover over the Blind Channel near Nelson Airport on July 1st, joined by two other blinking lights.

Green Ball of Light in Night Sky (Dunedin)

Mr. S. Clarke reported a bright green ball that enlarged, turned orange, emitted sparks, and then disappeared over Dunedin on July 6th, 1956.

Red Ball in Sky Seen by Local Man (Balclutha)

Mr. Jim Beeby of Balclutha saw a red ball of light flashing across the sky on July 6th, 1956, described as the size of a reddish football with a short reddish tail.

Brilliant Rays of Light Fan Out Across Sky (Christchurch)

On July 20th, 1956, numerous citizens in Christchurch witnessed glowing silvery white rays of light stretching across the sky, resembling searchlight beams. Official explanation cited ice crystal reflections, but many found it unsatisfactory.

Strange Sight Baffles Weather Man (Whenuapai)

A Met. Officer, A. A. Bowers, observed a bright orange, pear-shaped object near Whenuapai on July 19th, 1956. Later, a stratocumulus cloud was outlined by an orange light.

"Saucer" Crosses Tasman

A bright red glow, similar to one reported over Sydney, was seen by two young men over Whenuakura Hill on July 16th, 1956. The object, described as having aircraft-like lines, moved in an arc.

Bright Light Seen by Many (Waimate)

An orange light was seen by many people near Waimate on July 29th, 1956, moving slowly to the left.

"Flying Saucer" Over the City? (Invercargill)

Five residents reported seeing unidentified flying objects, described as round, dome-shaped objects emitting a red haze of light, over Invercargill on July 24th, 1956.

Object in Sky (Riverton)

A Riverton resident reported seeing a large red object flashing across the sky on July 26th, 1956, described as the size of a reddish football with a short reddish tail.

Survey Engineer Tracked Unidentified Object with 20 Power Theodolite in Daylight

Mr. M. J. Clark, a Civil Engineer, reported sighting an unidentified object on July 26th, 1956, using a standard theodolite. The object appeared to have a bluish tint in front and an orange tint behind, moving in three dimensions. He noted its movement was westerly and rising in altitude. He also observed Venus, noting distinct differences between the object and the planet.

Papatoetoe People See Strange Orange Light

Mrs. Wood reported a strange orange colored object seen on July 27th, 1956, described as the size of a motor car lamp, climbing steeply with a multi-colored tail.

Strange Light in Sky Seen at Wairau Bar

Four people reported a strange, bright, fast-moving light over Cook Strait on Saturday night, July 28th, 1956. The object was described as a round, orange-colored ball with a green tinge at the tail.

Strange Objects in Nelson Sky Today

A Nelson resident reported seeing small, silver, unidentified objects in the sky on July 30th, 1956. The objects were described as slightly oval, shining brightly, and vanishing suddenly.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed reporting of UFO sightings across New Zealand, the promotion of citizen investigation through "Project Skywatch," and a critical stance towards official explanations and the astronomical community's perceived lack of engagement with the UFO phenomenon. The editorial stance emphasizes the importance of empirical evidence, the need for open-minded investigation, and the belief that authorities are aware of more than they disclose. There is a strong call for public participation and for the organization to become self-supporting.

Title: Flying Saucers
Issue: Vol. 1, No. 1
Date: September 1956
Publisher: Civilian Saucer Investigation (N.Z.)

This issue of "Flying Saucers" magazine, published in September 1956, focuses on a surge of unidentified flying object (UFO) sightings reported across New Zealand and Australia during August and early September of that year. The publication aims to document these events, explore potential explanations, and discuss the ongoing scientific and public interest in the phenomenon.

Dunedin and Suva Sightings

The issue begins with reports from Dunedin, New Zealand, where Mrs. G. Wilson described an object similar to one seen in Suva, Fiji. The Dunedin sighting occurred on Friday evening, August 6th, 1956, around 10:30 p.m. Mrs. Wilson noted the object was the brightest thing in the sky, emitting rays that formed an "inverted cross." Crucially, it did not twinkle and remained stationary for the 15 minutes it was observed. The director of the Beverley Begg Observatory, Mr. A. J. Doig, suggested it could be Mars, but noted that the Suva report described a golden-yellow light, while Mars has a reddish tinge. He also questioned how an object could maintain such a golden light for seven hours, as reported from Suva.

Eskdale and Gisborne Observations

Further reports detail sightings in Eskdale and Gisborne. On August 6th, 1956, Mr. D. Lindsay and his family in Eskdale observed a glowing ball, about a quarter the size of the moon, hovering at an angle. Mr. Lindsay described it as a perfect golden-colored sphere that seemed to travel away and become smaller, then suddenly return to its previous size. The object's brilliance was such that it illuminated clouds passing in front of it. In Gisborne, on August 8th, 1956, Mr. P. Galloway reported seeing a similar glowing ball moving from south to north, disappearing behind clouds over Hospital Hill. He noted its global shape and brilliant surface, likening it to a star of unusual magnitude, and was unable to relocate it due to cloud cover.

Taumarunui Correspondence

A letter to the editor of "The Taumarunui Press" dated August 8th, 1956, from R. A. Ferri of Hamilton, describes an unusual object seen on August 7th near Te Kuiti. Ferri, an experienced pilot, initially mistook it for an aircraft but realized its shape was not that of a plane. He described it as perfectly round, shining with steady radiance, and moving upward and southward with incredible speed, diminishing in size rapidly. He estimated its height to be much greater than it appeared and watched it for 12 to 15 seconds before it became too small and faint to see.

Tolaga Bay Landing Report

One of the most detailed accounts comes from a farmer near Tolaga Bay, identified as "Mr. X," who provides a first-hand account of a sighting on the early morning of July 19th. He, his mother, and his aunt witnessed an object at close quarters. Awakened by a brilliant light around 4:31 a.m., they saw an object approximately 200 yards distant and at eye level. The object was described as surging up and down slowly, with a band of light around its center. Six streams of light dripped from the bottom, and two beams shot out from the top. The object was described as almost completely round, with a band of light around the middle that changed color. It moved slowly over the sea and then began to rise. Mr. X emphasized that the object was not saucer-shaped and suggested it was controlled by intelligence. He also recounted a separate incident from three years prior involving friends who saw an object rise from scrub, leaving a trail of white ash, which disintegrated upon touch.

New Plymouth and Stratford Sightings

Further reports include a sighting over New Plymouth on August 13th, 1956, by Mr. A. Woodhouse, who described a shiny, silver, oblong object with a silvery light. On August 22nd, a Stratford family of 10 reported seeing two "flying saucers" in close formation, described as dull white, disc-shaped objects heading towards Ngauruhoe. Another report from Stratford on August 25th described a silver disc-like object moving in a hovering manner towards Douglas. Additionally, Mrs. A. Winter of Matapu reported hearing an unusual "whirring noise" in the western sky on the same night.

Brilliant Red Light and Sydney Hunt

On August 13th, 1956, Mr. P. Nicholls of Wellsford observed a brilliant red light above the eastern horizon that blinked on and off. Using binoculars, he noted it moved slowly northwards, dimming until it disappeared. In Sydney, on July 8th, 1956, an R.A.A.F. plane investigated a report of two unidentified objects. The pilot found no explanation, but Mr. Alan Light had reported seeing objects with a metallic appearance and bright light between noon and 1 p.m., which were almost stationary. The R.A.A.F. suggested the objects could have been reflections of Venus.

Mystery Blasts Rock Melbourne

A significant event reported is the "Mystery Blasts" that rocked Melbourne on June 29th, 1956. Mysterious explosions occurred over a 60-mile arc just before 3 p.m., with tremors shaking homes and cracking windows. Authorities could offer no explanation. Police described the tremors as the strongest Melbourne had felt. A wind blast reportedly hurled people to the ground, and one person was blown from his bicycle. The explosions were felt in widely separated centers, and despite extensive checks, no conventional cause such as aircraft tests, meteors, or ammunition explosions could be identified.

Tokyo Sightings and Web-like Threads

The issue also includes a brief report of "Flying Saucers" over Tokyo on May 1st, 1956, with sightings in Chiba Prefecture and various wards of Tokyo. One witness described a bright object the size of a football. Another reported a greenish object with a red tail moving faster than a jet. A separate article discusses "Web-like Threads" that fell in Melbourne suburbs in July 1956, puzzling scientists from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Organization. These threads, described as not being wool, cotton, or wood-fiber, vanished quickly and were found to be electro-statically charged. The article connects these phenomena to UFO sightings, noting that similar "Angels' Hair" falls have occurred previously in Australia and New Zealand.

"Project Magnet" and Electro-Gravitics

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to "Project Magnet," a study initiated in 1950 by the Canadian Department of Transport. The project aimed to collect data on UFOs and explore new physical principles. The conclusions, based on statistical analysis, indicated a 91% probability that some sightings were of real, unknown objects, with a 60% probability that they were alien vehicles. The report also discussed research into "electro-gravitics," suggesting that this field could lead to revolutionary new technologies, including aircraft that could behave like flying saucers and travel at ultra-high speeds. The potential implications for gravity control, weightlessness, and new fields of chemistry are highlighted.

Humanoid or Human? Debate

Dr. Benjamin D. Benincasa addresses the question of whether UFO occupants are humanoid or human. He notes that experts agree flying saucers are real, non-terrestrial aircraft, but the identity of the occupants remains debated. While some suggest a superior intelligence, Benincasa questions why certain investigators have not fully evaluated reports of "talking little men" or "dead little men." He cites examples of witnesses who claim to have seen human-like creatures interacting with unconventional craft. The article also touches on the interest shown by Christian theologians, who are considering the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligent beings and their potential interactions with humanity, including concerns about Earth's warlike tendencies.

Radio Signals from Venus

An article reports on interesting radio signals detected from Venus by Dr. John D. Kraus of Ohio State University. These signals, ranging from 2,000,000 to 4,000,000 cycles per second, suggest an atmosphere similar to Earth's and may provide clues to Venus's rotation period. The signals fluctuate greatly in intensity, with peaks arriving earlier each day, indicating a rotation period of approximately 24 days minus 7 minutes per day.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the increasing incidence of UFO sightings, the diversity of reported phenomena, and the ongoing efforts to investigate these events scientifically. The magazine adopts a stance of serious inquiry, presenting witness accounts, expert opinions, and scientific research without outright dismissal. There is a clear emphasis on the need for further investigation and the potential for UFO-related research to unlock new technological advancements. The editorial stance encourages readers to report their own sightings and participate in the ongoing study of these phenomena.

Title: ORBIT
Issue: Vol. 1, No. 3, July 1956
Publisher: The Murray Organisation Ltd.
Country: United Kingdom
Theme: Flying Saucers, UFOs, Scientific Investigation

Editorial Stance

This issue of ORBIT magazine presents a multifaceted exploration of the flying saucer phenomenon, featuring a notable exchange between prominent figures in the field. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various perspectives from scientific skepticism to eyewitness accounts and international reports.

Key Articles and Reports

The Menzel-Benincasa Debate

The central debate revolves around the nature of flying saucers, primarily featuring the views of Dr. Donald H. Menzel of Harvard College Observatory and Dr. Benjamin D. Benincasa. Dr. Menzel maintains an objective approach, suggesting that most sightings can be explained by meteorological phenomena or optical illusions, and he has authored a book that debunks the interplanetary theory. He cites his own experiences, including a spectacular sighting in March 1955 of a flying saucer with estimated speeds of 100 miles per second, which he still does not attribute to an interplanetary vehicle. Dr. Benincasa, however, views Menzel's position as defensive and possibly incomplete, suggesting that Menzel might know more than he is willing to disclose. Benincasa speculates that Menzel's adherence to consistency with his published work might be influencing his public statements, and he posits that Menzel is perhaps caught between conventional scientific views and the possibility of real, navigable extraterrestrial craft.

Antarctic Optical Phenomena

Roger Bankes reports on optical phenomena witnessed in 1954 while stationed with the Falkland Islands Dependencies Survey in the Antarctic. On two mornings, observers saw what they believed to be unrecorded optical phenomena. These included a pearly iridescence over the sky and, to the northeast, a series of well-defined ovals of pink and green light, some measuring 2-6 degrees. These lights were visible for about an hour and were simultaneously witnessed by other bases 300 miles distant, leading meteorologists to believe they were beyond the troposphere and unconnected with water vapor. While the spheres appeared as clear colored lights, their defined saucer shape, when witnessed by trained observers under ideal conditions, could have led to fanciful speculations.

Sightings from the UK

Several reports detail sightings from various locations in the United Kingdom:

• Kidlington and Stonesfield: An "Oxford Mail" report from July 12, 1956, describes a silver, spherical object with a flange seen in Kidlington, and a large object composed of two spheres joined by a bar, travelling very fast and high, observed in Stonesfield.
• Redhill: The "Surrey Mirror" reported on July 13, 1956, that three local people saw an object resembling a flying saucer. Mr. Leonard Wornham described it as a pure white disc-shaped object with a smaller dome, which later turned half white and half brilliant red before ascending rapidly.
• Wharfedale: The "Yorkshire Evening News" reported on July 25, 1956, that Mr. John Kelley and his mother saw an object over the hill in Wharfedale. They described it as having two spheres joined by a bar and observed it for about ten minutes without sound.

International Reports

• Bari, Italy: The "Birmingham Mail" reported on August 8, 1956, that a former Italian Air Force officer and five relatives saw a round object glowing with a reddish light.
• Rome, Italy: Vice-consul Dr. Alberto Perego reported observing a fleet of approximately 100 flying saucers over Rome on November 6, 1954. He estimated their altitude at 10-12 kilometers and their speed at 1200-1400 kilometers per hour. He described the formation as an enormous 'V' that approached another formation, forming a Greek Cross, which was visible for about a minute. This incident was reportedly not mentioned in the press due to official orders, but Perego's report to NATO powers received a thank-you letter stating the matter was of interest but not for public disclosure.

Other Notable Mentions

• Eccles, UK: Paul Porcher, a photographer, reported seeing a red, cup-shaped object on a saucer, stationary for about 15 seconds before moving rapidly towards Eccles. He questioned whether it was a flying saucer or an optical illusion.
• Rome Incident Details: Dr. Perego's detailed account of the Rome sighting described the objects appearing as tiny white dots that formed into a 'V' shape, approaching another formation to create a Greek Cross. He emphasized that the objects were of extraterrestrial origin and warned of potential public panic if the secret were revealed without warning.

Civilian Saucer Investigation (N.Z.) Financial Report

The issue includes a balance sheet and income and expenditure account for the Civilian Saucer Investigation (N.Z.) as of April 30, 1956. The accumulated funds stood at £178 17s 5d. The accounts detail income from membership fees, donations, and takings at meetings, offset by expenses for hall hire, advertising, stationery, and other operational costs.

Book Listings

A comprehensive list of books on flying saucers and related topics is provided, including titles such as "Flying Saucer Conspiracy" by Donald Keyhoe, "Report on Unidentified Flying Objects" by Edward Ruppelt, and "Flying Saucers" by Donald Menzel, along with their prices. The Murray Organisation Ltd. also offers subscriptions to overseas flying saucer magazines and periodicals.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent mystery of flying saucers, the tension between scientific skepticism and eyewitness testimony, and the international scope of reported sightings. The magazine appears to champion the open investigation of UFO phenomena, providing a platform for diverse viewpoints, including those of scientists, investigators, and the general public. The inclusion of financial reports from an investigation group and extensive book listings suggests a commitment to providing resources and information for those interested in the subject. The overall stance is one of presenting evidence and fostering discussion, rather than definitively concluding on the nature of the phenomena.