Flying Saucers - Vol 04 No 03 - 1957 01-03

Magazine Overview

Title: Flying Saucers
Issue: Vol. 4-No. 3
Date: January-March, 1957
Publisher: Civilian Saucer Investigation (N.Z.)
Country: New Zealand
Type: Official Quarterly Journal

Editorial: Everyone Should Be Interested, All Are Involved

The editorial asserts that "strange machines" not of earthly origin are present in our skies, possessing flight capabilities far beyond human technology. Official investigations have positively established the existence of these solid, intelligently controlled objects, confirming they are not terrestrial. The editorial highlights the documentary film "Unidentified Flying Objects," released by United Artists in April 1956, as a crucial piece of evidence that should convince even the most persistent unbelievers of the reality of UFOs. The film, which is screening internationally, presents factual accounts of actual incidents re-enacted for the public. The editorial encourages readers to view the film, emphasizing its importance for understanding our future and the world.

About Ourselves: Report on C.S.I. Activities

Civilian Saucer Investigation (C.S.I.) is a non-profit organization dedicated to researching "Unidentified Flying Objects and Correlated Happenings." Membership is open with an annual fee of £1, and regular monthly meetings and library facilities are available. The organization's research is based on "cold hard facts" and the belief that an overwhelming case exists for the appearance of real physical devices controlled by superior, alien intelligences. These visitations are increasing and are expected to lead to extraordinary changes in human beliefs and technology.

A brief report on the year's progress and activities details ten monthly general meetings and two committee meetings held in 1956. New members were elected to the committee, and some resigned due to health or occupational commitments. The C.S.I. Librarian, Mrs. Olga Weitzner, was thanked for her efficient management of the library, which has an increasing number of books. Mr. Ray Thomas and Mr. William Doo were commended for their success in recruiting new members. Mr. Thomas also provided magnetic tape recording equipment for meetings.

Four issues of the magazine were published during the year, with the September-December issue being the first to be fully printed. The publication has received positive feedback from overseas. The organization has ordered 2,000 copies for the January-March 1957 edition, with an additional 1,000 for a new national distribution project. Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Murray of Murray Organization Ltd. have been appointed distributing agents.

Financially, the organization is becoming healthier, with the annual balance due in April. "Project Skywatch," a special study from August 1956 to February 1957, was launched and received international press coverage. Circulars were sent to members, newspapers, broadcasting stations, weather offices, and airport control towers. "Skywatch" proved accurate in forecasting increased UFO sightings, with over 100 reports received during July-September 1956.

The President, Mr. H. H. Fulton, gave numerous addresses on UFO research throughout the year to various organizations, including Rotary Clubs, the Junior Chamber of Commerce, and the Royal New Zealand Air Force (R.N.Z.A.F.). International Sighting Days on June 30th and September 8th were co-operated with by C.S.I. members across New Zealand.

Publicity for C.S.I. activities was generous, with mentions in various newspapers and magazines, including Australian "PEOPLE" and "N.Z. FREE LANCE." A 20-minute interview was granted to the President by Station 2XN Nelson. Editorials concerning "saucers" were answered, and C.S.I. publications were forwarded. Over 3,000 incoming correspondence items were actioned, and the year was considered highly active and successful, increasing respect for the "Unidentified Flying Object."

Documentary Film "Unidentified Flying Objects" - Close Co-operation and Liaison

Following the release of the film "UNIDENTIFIED FLYING OBJECTS" in the USA in April 1956, C.S.I. made inquiries about its screening in New Zealand. United Artists' New Zealand Agency management offered to keep C.S.I. informed. The film was scheduled for an early October release, and C.S.I. was invited to a preview screening in Auckland on October 2nd. The film premiered in Wellington on October 4th, following a special preview for press and officials. The "Evening Post" published a review on October 3rd. A press preview was held in Auckland on October 29th, attended by representatives from various newspapers and organizations. C.S.I. actively supported the film's promotion by distributing publicity materials and maintaining close liaison with the manager of Auckland's Majestic Theatre, who organized a weather balloon release to promote the film's opening.

A gallup poll conducted at the 31st October public meeting revealed 350 votes for "Saucers don't exist," 250 for "Saucers exist," and 150 undecided. A majority of votes cast after viewing the film were either for the existence of "saucers" or undecided. C.S.I. expressed gratitude to United Artists and the Majestic Theatre for their co-operation. An article about the film was also written for "CINEMA, STAGE AND TV" magazine.

The film's New Zealand itinerary included screenings in Hastings, Mirimar (Wellington), and Embassy (Dunedin). United Artists confirmed the film would tour the entire country.

C.S.I. Magazine and Distribution Representatives

Murray Organization Ltd. has been appointed as the agency to manage the nationwide distribution of "FLYING SAUCERS" magazine to New Zealand booksellers. This initiative aims to make the magazine widely available to the public. As C.S.I. is a non-profit organization, all proceeds from sales will be used to improve research techniques and promote its aims.

Third Public Meeting

On October 31st, C.S.I. held its third public presentation in Auckland. Dominion President H. H. Fulton gave an address supported by slide projections. Mr. Ray Thomas demonstrated a geiger counter and played magnetic tape recordings of unidentified radio signals. A scientific colour film from the Moodie Institute was presented, and Mr. William Doo discussed the benefits of C.S.I. membership. The meeting was well-attended, with opinions varying on its value, though the audience was reportedly receptive to the latest news and views.

Report All Sightings to C.S.I.

C.S.I. earnestly desires to collect details of all "Unidentified Flying Object" observations. They assure confidentiality and encourage reporting without fear of ridicule. Essential details requested include location, date, time, direction, angle, description of the object, its actions, duration of observation, weather conditions, number of witnesses, and whether the incident was previously reported.

New Zealand Sighting Reports

This section features numerous reports of UFO sightings from across New Zealand, primarily from September 1956. The reports describe a variety of objects, often characterized by unusual speed, silent flight, glowing lights, and non-conventional shapes.

Extraordinary Rocket-Like Object Flashes Across 250 Miles of New Zealand's North Island Skies:

This event, occurring shortly before the close approach of Mars, involved a spectacular object seen by hundreds from Hastings to Dargaville. Witnesses described it as unlike a meteor or aircraft, with unusual speed, form, and glowing appearance. Many observers were qualified, and their remarks dismissed the possibility of conventional aircraft or meteors. Some reports mentioned objects that could suddenly reverse, change direction, or shed smaller objects.

Reports from Other Observers in Brief (Auckland Area):

Several individuals in the Auckland area reported sightings. Squadron Leader K. B. Smith observed a "glowing object with a white nose flash" travelling at "fantastic speed" northward from Devonport. Squadron Leader O. Staple also saw the object, and air traffic control had received "saucer reports." Mr. and Mrs. F. Thomas and their daughter described a "brilliant white light" moving east to west over Rangitoto Beacon, climbing in the sky. Other reports included an object seen over the Tamaki Estuary, a "cigar-shaped" object with a blue flame from the rear, a "small blue light with a long white tapering tail," a "bluish and very bright" object, and a "moving glow in the sky." Observers Mr. Fraider and Mr. Delaney described a "swift thing" that they believed was the exhaust flame from an accelerating machine, orange and purple in colour. A middle-aged businessman from Milford saw a "cluster of bluish-white lights travelling swiftly." Mr. and Mrs. Porter's description closely agreed with other observations.

Reports from Further Afield:

Mr. L. C. Dassler, a former flight sergeant navigator, reported a "pinkish, purplish flame and the indistinct shape of a hull" travelling faster than any jet. Mr. E. J. Aiken saw a "pink and white pear-shaped object travelling very fast."

Those on "Watch" Duty at Sea Did Not See:

Two vessels, the R.M.V. "Rangitane" and M.V. "Essex," were at sea approximately 100 miles east of Cuvier Island during the time of the observations. Their masters reported no unusual astronomical phenomena, suggesting the objects were too low to be seen from that distance.

Bay of Plenty Times, 4th September, 1956:

A school teacher in Whakatane reported an object that was "red to orange, a fair proportion of white, mainly at tail or trailing edge," with "very great" speed and a duration of six seconds. The object was described as oval.

Bay of Plenty Times, 4th September, 1956 - Bright Object Reported Flying Over Tauranga:

Several Tauranga residents reported seeing a bright object. Mr. and Mrs. A. Fullforth described it as a "very bright light in front and had a tail which tapered off into nothing," travelling faster than a jet. Mr. R. Clark described it as travelling at about 30 degrees above ground level at "terrific speed." Mr. E. Wrigley saw a "red ball with a reddish tail" flying dead level at high speed. Mr. and Mrs. E. McG. Murray described it as a "shooting star but was much bigger and was travelling on a horizontal plane." Mrs. Murray noted it was "certainly not a star."

Mr. A. McIntyre reported an object like a "very bright light with a white fluorescent tail, which was as wide as the object near the front and tapered to a point." Mr. D. J. Hill described the object as a "white light in the front and had a tail fading into orange and pink," travelling horizontally at high speed.

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Whakatane, 7th Sept., 1956 - Glowing Object Was Seen by Local Residents:

Mr. R. L. Moore observed a reddish light with trailing sparks, moving fast and horizontally. Mr. Herman Bakker described an orange-coloured ball with a rusty-coloured tail, travelling horizontally. Mr. J. Nisbett and his wife described it as a "phosphorescent ball."

Rotorua Post, 4th September, 1956:

Several observers in the Rotorua district reported similar descriptions of shape, colour, and course. The "Post" also received an account of an aurora seen over the Whaka Forest.

News, Te Aroha, 7th September, 1956 - Was It a Flying Saucer? Unidentified Object Seen by Ngarua Couple:

Mr. and Mrs. A. P. Armstrong observed an object "gliding slowly like a bird" that then emitted flame and sparks and accelerated at "terrific speed." They described it as pointed at the front with a white colour and a trail of smoke.

News, Opotiki, 28th September, 1956 - Was It a Flying Saucer?:

A farmer reported seeing a bright object like a car light that changed direction, veered off towards Tauranga, and trailed sparks.

Star, Thames, 5th September, 1956:

A correspondent reported a strange object observed moving effortlessly and horizontally at high speed, with no sound. Mrs. Walker reported seeing a distant object lay a circular vapour trail in the sky.

Waikato Times:

A Hamilton resident reported a golden-coloured light travelling northward, which was not an aircraft and made no sound.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the widespread sightings of unidentified flying objects across New Zealand, the detailed reporting of these events by civilian investigators, and the promotion of a documentary film intended to validate the reality of UFOs. The editorial stance is one of urgency and importance, emphasizing that these phenomena are real, not of earthly origin, and that everyone should be interested and involved in understanding them. The magazine actively encourages the public to report sightings and provides a platform for disseminating information and fostering research within the field of UFO investigation.

This issue of "FLYING SAUCERS" from September 1956 (Volume 1, No. 1) is a compilation of numerous UFO sighting reports from across New Zealand. The magazine focuses on detailed accounts from witnesses, often including their personal observations, estimations of size, speed, and altitude, and their attempts to rationalize or understand the phenomena.

Key Articles and Reports

Sighting Reports from September 3rd, 1956

The issue dedicates significant space to sightings that occurred on Monday, September 3rd, 1956. These reports come from various locations across New Zealand, including:

• Taupiri/Hamilton: A correspondent for the "Waikato Times" reported a cylindrical object with a brilliant yellow nose and flaming tail, travelling horizontally. Another report from Hamilton described an oval, egg-shaped object with a bluish-purple colour.
• Tairua: Mr. R. Connell reported that three people, including a retired engineer, saw an object like a comet travelling horizontally.
• Whenuakite: Mr. James Hamilton and C. J. Brown reported an object flying in a north-westerly direction, appearing first in the east, with a steady course and speed.
• Whitianga: G. C. and W. A. Donovan described a strange object travelling north-west, then changing to a northerly course, climbing slightly, and having a tail about six times its diameter.
• Pipiroa: Alf J. Mackenzie reported an object with a crescent moon-shaped nose and a tail of light, travelling at high speed.
• Glen Innes: Mrs. Girven and Miss C. D. Girven saw a brilliant white light moving rapidly from east to west, described as long and cigar-shaped.
• Herne Bay: Mr. R. H. McEnierny and his family observed a very strong white light travelling west, appearing to climb rapidly.
• Takapuna: J. R. Farnsworth reported an egg-shaped object with lighted port-holes and sparks from the rear.
• Ngatea: Mr. Spence Wood, reported by J. W. Flower, described a cigar-shaped, luminous object travelling at high speed.

Other Notable Sightings

• Mr. R. M. McKechnie of Panmure provided a detailed report of an object he saw on September 3rd, describing a cylindrical fuselage approximately 7:1 in length to depth, climbing west at an angle of 25-30 degrees, with a bright blue-tinged light at the nose and an impressive exhaust trail.
• Mr. L. C. Dassler of Oropi, Tauranga, reported an object appearing as a small, very brilliant ball of light, moving parallel with the earth's surface, with no trail effect, ruling out a meteorite.
• Mr. Frank P. Duggan of Ngaruawahia described a stationary object for about an hour, which he later saw drop swiftly, rise again several times, and "bounce like a tennis ball."
• Mr. T. W. S. Vincent and K. A. Vincent reported a bright light east by south-east, shaped like a top, glowing with a bright light and separate lights on either side and at the bottom.

Meteorite Incident

• Auckland Housewife's Unnerving Experience: The issue details an incident where fragments of a meteorite landed near Mrs. M. Munyard in Avondale. The object flashed past her head and seemed to explode at her feet. A neighbour retrieved a piece of material described as bluestone, cut clean and sparkling. Experts were examining the fragments, and it was noted as the third recorded meteorite in New Zealand.

Further Sightings and Analysis

• Hamilton Boys' School Sighting: On September 20th, 50 witnesses, including boys and masters, observed a brilliant white object in the sky, stationary for a minute before moving north at remarkable speed.
• Mrs. Bates' Sighting: On September 11th, Mrs. Bates observed a brilliantly lit object hovering in the western sky, described as golden red, larger than the moon, with rays shining out. She used powerful binoculars to study its features.
• Mr. E. T. Scott's Report: Mr. Scott reported an object sighted on September 20th, described as having a peculiar intensity and pulsing or flickering light, changing colour from red to green to orange-yellow. He noted its stationary position initially and then its steady travel towards the West.
• Nelson Daylight Sighting: On October 30th, a bright silvery disc or globe was sighted due west, appearing to recede rapidly from witnesses.
• Mr. J. H. Young's Sighting: On November 25th, Mr. Young saw a bright light, stationary in the northern sky, which moved northwards slowly for 2-3 minutes before blinking out.
• Mrs. Duder's Sighting: Also on November 25th, Mrs. Duder sighted a large bright star-like object, stationary, bright yellow, which suddenly disappeared after appearing to rise slowly and move north.
• Mr. O. R. Hull's Report: A detailed observation on November 25th described an orange object with variations in brightness, moving slowly at first, then faster, with no sound.
• Mr. B. Thomson's Report: A farmer in Kaponga reported a large, peculiarly shaped object, white in colour, travelling at surprising speed, described as having a turret-like glass nose and delta-like wings.
• Mr. R. V. Rountree's Sighting: On September 17th, Mr. Rountree and other watchers studied an object the size of a full moon in the north-eastern sky, which remained stationary for most of the period, changing shape and colour.
• Hastings "Sky Stranger": Motorists viewing the lighting of Hastings saw a strange object described as a long illuminated object, apparently larger than an aeroplane, with white lights in a line, which circled the business area before disappearing south.
• Mr. L. Provis' Sighting: Mr. Provis saw a bright cigar-shaped object in a vertical position, with smaller objects of the same shape at the lower end.
• Mr. E. E. Le Prou's Sighting: Mr. Le Prou reported a semi-circular, brightly-lit object in the sky, stationary for 20 minutes, then ascending into cloud with a sharply-defined floodlight downwards.
• Mr. D. Gordon's Sighting: A brilliant red and blue illuminated object with a white lighted tip was seen low in the eastern sky.
• Wanganui Sightings: Reports describe a queer object cavorting dizzily or streaking at high speeds, including a cigar-shaped object and a bright green light rocketing across the sky.

Editorial Notes and C.S.I. Involvement

The magazine includes reports from C.S.I. (Civilian Saucer Investigation) representatives and members, indicating their active role in collecting and investigating these sightings. The publication encourages readers to report their own experiences and provides contact information for C.S.I. representatives.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the prevalence of UFO sightings across New Zealand, the diverse descriptions of these objects (shapes, sizes, colours, behaviours), and the consistent lack of noise or conventional explanation. The editorial stance is one of serious inquiry, presenting witness accounts without immediate dismissal and encouraging further investigation. The publication aims to document these phenomena and gather evidence, suggesting a growing interest and belief in the possibility of extraterrestrial visitors.

This issue of "Flying Saucers" (dated as "Page Twenty-nine" on the cover, implying it's part of a larger publication) features a bold declaration on its cover: "Brazil Says SAUCERS REAL," supported by an excerpt from an official Brazilian Air Force report. The magazine delves into various UFO sightings, political implications, and scientific investigations related to the phenomenon.

Brazilian Air Force Report

The lead article details a significant report from the Brazilian Air Force, presented at a conference in December 1954. Colonel Adil de Oliveira, after analyzing global UFO information and specific cases from Project Blue Book, concluded that flying saucers are real. He emphasized that no government could afford to ignore these reports and that investigations should be conducted, as the matter could be of military interest. He described the saucers as possibly revolutionary aircraft, not conventional phenomena or illusions, and acknowledged that their origin and purpose were unknown. Brigadier Guedes Muniz concluded the conference by likening the situation to the 'horn-beetle' story, suggesting that even if something seems impossible, it might still be happening.

Political Implications: The 1956 Presidential Campaign

An article by Inez Robb, titled "NOW FLYING SAUCERS BECOME MAJOR ISSUE IN '56 CAMPAIGN," suggests that the flying saucer phenomenon could be a decisive factor in the 1956 US Presidential election. Robb posits that neither the GOP nor the Democrats have taken a firm stance on the issue, which is a significant oversight given its importance to the American people. She argues that the first candidate to address the flying saucer issue frankly and push for transparency in reporting will likely win easily, perhaps even "in a flying saucer."

International Sightings and Investigations

The magazine presents a collection of overseas sighting reports:

• Australia:
• Kilmore: Farmers, boys, and sheep witnessed "fireballs" that bombarded the area, leaving a trail of blue dust.
• Cambridge Airport: A resident reported seeing an object the size of a small aircraft with a smoke trail, accompanied by a sound like a distant thunder or jet plane.
• Darwin: A charter pilot and an airliner crew reported seeing a long, narrow, dimly-illuminated object moving at high speed.
• Grafton: Residents reported a wingless, thimble-shaped object sighted after a similar sighting by a Royal New Zealand Air Force officer.
• Ballarat: A cluster of three bright objects, described as electric lights, was seen moving rapidly across the sky.
• Wynyard: Two men reported a balloon-shaped object travelling at high speed out to sea.
• Northern New South Wales/Southern Queensland: Reports of strange green lights and an object crashing were noted.
• Europe:
• Coventry, England: Five people witnessed a flashing light moving at "thousands of miles an hour" across the night sky.
• Melton, England: Four process workers reported seeing a large orange-colored object, flat like a biscuit with dancing lights, moving at a fair speed.
• Thanet, England: A cylindrical, cigar-shaped object was sighted travelling at tremendous speed.
• Lancaster, England: A yellow, circular object was seen flying due east at high speed.
• Near Scorton, England: A ball of fire with a long tail was seen to dive to the ground at an angle, flaring slightly and changing to an oval shape before disappearing without sound.

"U.F.O. INVESTIGATION CENTRE" and Other Groups

The issue mentions several organizations involved in UFO research:

• National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena (Washington, D.C.): A new civilian investigatory group with plans for two new magazines.
• "U.F.O. INVESTIGATION CENTRE" (Sydney, Australia): An independent organization formed from members of an earlier group, active in UFO research.
• Queensland Flying Saucer Bureau (Australia): A new group showing enterprise.
• Vancouver Area Flying Saucer Club (Canada): An active club issuing a monthly bulletin.

Satellites and UFO Study

An article based on a newscast by Ben Shirley of WSMB discusses how Earth satellites will be used to study flying saucers. It reveals that at least two of the upcoming 20-inch globes for Project Vanguard will be equipped with special electronic instruments to observe and study UFOs, indicating a serious, albeit secret, governmental concern.

"Spaceman MON-KA" Radio Contact

This section details an alleged event where U.S. radio ham Dick Miller brought magnetic tape recordings from England, claiming a spaceman named "MON-KA" from Mars had "precipitated" his voice onto the tape. The recording predicted a craft would hover over Los Angeles on November 7th, requesting local stations to stand by. Despite promises from some stations, the event did not occur as predicted, though radar reportedly detected a UFO over Los Angeles that night.

Natural Phenomena and Misidentification

An editorial note advises readers to enlarge their knowledge of natural phenomena to better recognize and explain "unusual things in the sky." It cautions against dismissing expert observations due to "ignorance" and suggests that many sightings can be explained as unrecognised natural phenomena or mistaken identity.

Flying Saucer Book List

The magazine includes a comprehensive list of available books on flying saucers, their authors, and prices, published by The Murray Organisation Ltd.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the confirmation of flying saucers as a real phenomenon by official bodies (Brazil), the potential political and societal impact of UFOs, and the ongoing efforts by various international groups and governments to investigate and understand these sightings. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry, encouraging detailed reporting of sightings and advocating for transparency from official sources. There's a clear emphasis on the importance of the UFO issue, positioning it as more significant than conventional political concerns like parity or prosperity.