Flying Saucers - Vol 04 No 04 - 1957 04-06

Magazine Overview

Title: FLYING SAUCERS
Issue: VOL. 4—No. 4 (16th Quarterly Issue)
Date: Second Quarter, 1957
Publisher: Civilian Saucer Investigation (N.Z.)
Country: New Zealand
Price: 2/6

This issue of "FLYING SAUCERS" is the official quarterly journal of the Civilian Saucer Investigation (N.Z.), published in the second quarter of 1957. The cover features a prominent illustration of a flying saucer and highlights "Latest Arresting Observations and Serious Research Progress Reports on Unidentified Flying Objects. A Global Round Up of News and Views." The magazine aims to present "FACT — NOT FICTION."

Editorial: "ASTRONOMICAL BALLY-HOO. MUCH EVIDENCE OF SMOGGY, MUDDLED THINKING"

The editorial, dated April-June 1957, criticizes the official response to Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) nearly ten years after they first gained world-wide attention. It notes the vast amount of eyewitness testimony but laments the lack of satisfactory solutions or explanations from official investigations. The editorial suggests a "grand conspiracy" by officials who may know more than they reveal, leading to baffling behaviour and a reluctance to share information. It posits that future history books might record this period as a time when a mass of excellent observational data was ignored for too long due to illogical suppression by those invested in maintaining existing scientific dogma. The editorial also highlights the historical ridicule faced by UFO observers and contrasts it with the current situation where professional astronomers are increasingly being challenged by credible sightings.

Key Articles and Reports

Tried Hard to Capture Small Glowing Sphere

This article details an investigation by C.S.I. representative Mr. A. T. R. Smith into an incident that occurred in Balfour, New Zealand, on January 13th, 1957. Messrs. William West and Wallace Liddell reported seeing a glowing, blue-dull-white sphere, approximately 15-18 inches in diameter, hover and move erratically near Mr. West's home. The object reportedly ducked away when attempts were made to catch it, blinded the observers with light, and then disappeared after clearing an eight-foot iron fence. The witnesses, initially sceptical, became convinced the object was not of this world. The report includes a sketch of the object's movement and notes that meteorological officers at the aerodrome could offer no explanation. The incident was later discussed on Station 4YZ Invercargill.

Noted Astronomer Says U.F.O.'s May Come From Another Solar System

This section features statements from Clyde W. Tombaugh, the discoverer of Pluto. Tombaugh suggests that UFOs might originate from outside our solar system, positing the existence of other life-sustaining planets. He discusses the rapid advancement of energy discovery on Earth and speculates that advanced civilizations could have developed technologies for rapid space travel, potentially covering vast distances. Tombaugh acknowledges that absolute proof is lacking but notes that phenomena appearing to be directed and defying ordinary laws of celestial motion lend credence to the idea of extraterrestrial visitors.

Norwegian Military States Crashed Saucer From Another World...

This report, attributed to William H. Noordhoek Hegt, discusses a Norwegian military inquiry into the remains of a crashed UFO near Spitzbergen, possibly in early 1952. Colonel Gernod Darnbyl of the Norwegian General Staff stated that the disc was "not built in any country on earth" and its materials were unknown. He indicated that the investigation would involve U.S. and British experts and that sensational facts would be revealed to avoid panic. The report also mentions claims by Norwegian officers that flying discs have landed in Arctic regions, using them as air bases during snow storms and exhibiting unusual rotation and light phenomena.

Aircraft Imperilled by Rare Object

This article reports on an incident where an aircraft belonging to Pan American Airways, flying between New York and San Juan, Puerto Rico, encountered a flaming object at high altitude. The pilot, Captain Mathew A. van Winkle, had to perform evasive manoeuvres, resulting in minor injuries to four passengers. Van Winkle could not identify the object, initially thinking it might be a jet propulsion aircraft, but noted it lacked the characteristics of any known jet. Other aircraft in the vicinity also reportedly saw similar objects.

N.Z. Astronomer's Analysis of "Flying Saucer Myth"

This article presents the views of Mr. W. D. Anderson, a Dunedin amateur astronomer, who corresponded with Mr. I. L. Thomsen of the Carter Observatory. Anderson's analysis, based on correspondence with Thomsen, suggests that most saucer reports can be explained by natural phenomena such as Venus, meteors, or atmospheric effects. He contends that 90% of sightings are explainable and that only a small percentage remain unexplained, possibly due to unknown natural phenomena or incompetent reporting. The article critiques the idea that unexplained phenomena must be extraterrestrial visitors.

Other Aviators See the Same Thing

This brief report from Houston, Texas, mentions two veteran pilots who followed an unidentified object that played "hide and seek" with their DC-3 aircraft. The object exhibited high velocity and the ability to stop and move away when approached. The pilots notified the Air Force, but the object could not be encountered by radar.

Permission to Reproduce From Magazine

This section grants permission for other UFO researchers to quote or reproduce material from the publication, with the request that credit lines be given. It also expresses gratitude for support from newspapers and hopes for continued interpretation of their work.

Membership and Publication Renewal Subs

This notice informs subscribers about renewal procedures and membership options, including full membership for £1 per annum and magazine-only subscriptions for 10/-.

Thanks

Sincere thanks are extended to Mr. C. L. Saunders for mentioning C.S.I. and its publication in his publication "THE TRUTH SEEKER."

Factual Documentary Film "U.F.O."

This section lists additional New Zealand screening dates for the factual documentary film "U.F.O."

Books with a Difference

This section is a catalogue of books available for purchase, covering a wide range of topics including occult science, yoga, mysticism, healing, psychic phenomena, and UFOs. Titles by authors such as Paul Brunton, Ramacharaka, Dion Fortune, Manly Palmer Hall, and George Adamski are listed with their prices.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the serious investigation of UFO phenomena, the critique of official secrecy and scepticism, and the presentation of eyewitness accounts and scientific analysis. The editorial stance is one of advocating for open-minded inquiry, challenging established astronomical dogma, and highlighting credible evidence that suggests UFOs may represent a significant and perhaps extraterrestrial phenomenon. The magazine positions itself as a platform for presenting research and observations that are often dismissed or ridiculed by mainstream science and authorities.

Title: Rochdale Observer
Issue Date: 23rd February, 1957
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Main Cover Story: Was Wardle Visited by a "Flying Saucer?"

The lead article, "Was Wardle Visited by a "Flying Saucer?"" by the "Rochdale Observer" on 23rd February, 1957, details a series of sightings of a strange object by residents of Wardle, Lancashire.

The Fitton Sighting

Gwynneth Fitton, 19, of 1 Wood End Lane, Wardle, reported seeing a frightening sight at 10 o'clock on a Friday night. Above her, near Birch Hill, was a strange, circular object emitting a weird and bright white glow. A second, smaller sphere beneath the main object constantly changed colour from white to red. Gwynneth's mother, Mrs. Dorothy Fitton, also witnessed the object, which appeared to be gliding towards their house. The smaller sphere was suspended from the larger disc and changed colour. The object paused briefly near the Fittons before climbing gently and moving towards Littleborough, eventually disappearing over Blackstone Edge. Both witnesses described the underside of the large disc as having a round indentation where the white light was slightly darker.

Corroborating Witnesses

To investigate further, the "Observer" reporter spoke to other residents. Mr. Albert Mottershead of 27 Elm Grove, Wardle, also saw a strange, circular object slightly to the left of Birch Hill. He described it as large, with a reddish-white glow, brighter than a storm lamp or car headlight. His wife corroborated his account. They then called Mr. John Hayes of 23 Elm Grove, who has binoculars. While the glasses didn't provide a better view due to the object's proximity, the description matched the Fittons'. The Mottersheads observed the object moving slowly over Wood End Lane, pausing, and then moving towards Littleborough until it vanished. The object was viewed for fifteen minutes. The night was clear and frosty, with no snow on the hillsides. The object stood out plainly against the sky and hill. It moved with certainty in straight lines without any sound, and no rustle of air was detected when it passed close to the Fittons.

Shaken Disbelief

Significantly, none of the witnesses claimed to be believers in "flying saucers" prior to this event, but their disbelief had been badly shaken by the experience.

Letters to the Editor

FLYING SAUCERS (9th March, 1957)

Miss W. Baron of 45 Little Clegg Road, Smithy Bridge, wrote to address an explanation by Mr. Neil Robinson that the Wardle "flying saucer" was a toy balloon. Miss Baron stated she also saw the object, which came from the direction of Hollingworth Lake. She described it as a round, flame-coloured object with a white and reddish glow beneath, hovering over a meadow before moving steadily towards Wardle. She mentioned seeing a similar object previously, which also came from the same direction.

FLYING SAUCERS (27th February, 1957)

Mrs. Mary Butterfield, from "C" Ward, Birch Hill Hospital, stated that patients in her eight-bedded ward also saw the object at ten minutes past ten on the night in question. They reported it to the night nurse, who also observed it circling the hospital.

Mrs. M. Ashcroft, of 5 Store Street, Norden, also reported seeing the object from the window of her ward at Birch Hill Hospital. She described it as a circular object with red and white lights, similar to Mrs. Fitton's sighting. A ball of fire appeared on the hillside, which became a circular white disc with interchanging red and white lights, moving slowly towards Littleborough before disappearing into space.

M.P.'s Question on Wardle's Flying Saucer (2nd March, 1957)

Mr. J. A. Leavey, M.P. for the Heywood and Royton Division, tabled a question to the Secretary of State for Air regarding an "abnormal and highly illuminated airborne object" seen near Wardle on February 15th, asking if radar systems had given any warning. The article notes that the reply was not yet known but that Mr. Leavey felt the matter was of local and public concern.

Two Explanations Offered

Toy Balloon Theory

Mr. Neil Robinson (35) of 157 Norden Road, Bamford, suggested that the sightings might be due to toy balloons. He claimed to have released 5d. toy balloons filled with hydrogen, each attached to a pen-torch battery and a small bulb. He released one near Mrs. Dorothy Fitton's home about a fortnight prior. He explained he released it in Wardle to avoid being seen letting off a balloon in his own district.

The reporter tested one of Mr. Robinson's balloons, finding its maximum size to be about twenty inches. The article notes that the illuminated object seen in Wardle was viewed from Elm Grove, nearly a mile away. Mr. Robinson denied using coloured reflectors, stating only the battery and bulb were attached. He estimated the balloon's diameter to be about twelve inches.

Air Ministry Equipment

Mr. Edmund Kershaw of 3 Higher Calderbrook, Littleborough, reported finding a "shining, oddly-shaped contraption" in the grass near Blackstone Edge. It was described as a silver cylinder with two "ears" and three metallic boxes. Upon closer inspection, it was identified as a piece of Air Ministry equipment, specifically a radio transmitter used with meteorological balloons. The writing on the cylinder indicated it was for the finder to fill in their name and address. Mr. Kershaw was initially taken aback, wondering if it was from outer space. The cylinder was found nearly two weeks after the "saucer" sighting and was dry despite considerable snowfall. Mrs. Dorothy Fitton examined the cylinder and stated it was not the smaller, flashing sphere she saw, which she described as being much larger, some three or four feet high, and flashing red and white.

Aircraft with Flashing Lights

Mr. Fitton, Mrs. Fitton's husband, reported seeing a commercial-type aircraft flying over Wardle, following the path of the "saucer" and flashing unusually large coloured lights. The article questions if this is a coincidence or if someone is playing games. The Manchester Flying Saucer Research Society is investigating the Wardle report, with secretary Mrs. Ethel Cowdy calling it "a beauty." Investigator Mr. J. Dale is visiting the district.

Flying Saucer Washed Up From Laundry

Mr. Orr-Ewing, Financial Secretary to the Admiralty, stated in the House of Commons that an "abnormal, brightly illuminated, airborne object" seen near Wardle did not emanate from outer space but from a laundry in Rochdale. He explained it consisted of two small hydrogen-filled balloons illuminated by a flashing bulb, devised by a laundry mechanic.

Radar Stations Watch For Strange Objects

A report from "The New Zealand Herald" (April 8th, 1957) details how Royal Air Force radar stations were put on alert to watch for unidentified objects. This followed a report from a Bomber Command radar post at West Freugh, Scotland, where two civilian operators detected an unidentified object on their screens for some time. The officer in charge described it as "an object of some substance" and not a "freak."

European Activity Increases

Mystery "Saucer" Over Northants (1st December, 1956)

A Kettering workman, Keith Manning, and his workmate, Maurice Holloway, reported seeing a mysterious object glowing in the night sky. They described it as circular with a hole in the centre, travelling sideways like a discus at high speed with no sound.

"Boy Says He Saw Flying Saucer" (28th December, 1956)

An Ashwell boy, Daryl Coffee, reported seeing a "flying saucer" about a foot in diameter, shining with a red edge, travelling at high speed. He saw it for about thirty seconds.

Pictorial Science-for-the-Million Report

"WOZZAT?" ROCKET TEST APPARITION IS BAFFLING THE BOFFINS

A phenomenon resembling a "plucked ostrich neck" appeared on a film reel from a rocket motor testing station in the Midlands. The object, described as highly luminous with a tail of brilliant stars, baffled rocket scientists, who confirmed it had nothing to do with the actual tests. The object was estimated to be less than two feet in diameter with a tail about ten feet long.

From Recent Australian Skies

"FLYING EGG" NOW (27th February, 1957)

Charlie Kingston of Longreach claimed a "flying egg," about 12 feet long and thick, followed his truck for about 400 yards. It was white, made no noise, stopped and started, and then shot off at an estimated 3000 miles an hour.

SAW "FLYING SAUCER," RESIDENTS CLAIM (6th March, 1957)

In Geelong, Victoria, 20 to 25 calls were received reporting a bluish-green, oval, round or cigar-shaped light moving across the sky without noise. Callers described it as travelling slowly at a fair height and not like a plane.

And Investigatory Developments

WE LOOK FOR SAUCERS (12th March, 1957)

Melbourne electronics engineer Lance Read built a "U.F.O.-scope" designed to detect flying saucers by sensing magnetic fields. The device consists of a compass, a 9-volt battery, and a buzzer. Read claims it will give warning of "Unidentified Flying Objects" up to a height of 50,000 ft. The Flying Saucer Research Society in Melbourne plans to expand this with radar antennas and cameras.

Seen in New Zealand Skies

BRILLIANT ILLUMINATED OBJECT STREAKS ACROSS AUCKLAND'S EARLY MORNING SKIES

Six Aucklanders reported seeing a brilliant round object with a flickering, shimmering light at the rear, which flashed across the western sky at approximately 15 degrees angle above the horizon on Friday, March 22nd. F/Sgt. T. F. Langley calculated its speed at approximately 3,600 m.p.h. The object was described as flying low and at no great distance, maintaining a flat horizontal flight path. Witnesses reported a violent discharge of hot gases from the rear. The C.S.I. investigation ruled out conventional aircraft, meteors, or other known natural phenomena.

MYSTERIOUS LIGHTS FLASH ACROSS STORMY CITY SKIES (29th December, 1956)

In Invercargill, New Zealand, three sightings were reported: a symmetrical group of 18 lights, a single light that circled the city, and later, eight or nine lights moving in a V formation. These were described as travelling at high speed with no accompanying noise. A police constable, firemen, and civilians were among the witnesses.

MORE MYSTERIOUS LIGHTS OVER INVERCARGILL (5th January, 1957)

Another report from Invercargill describes three groups of dull, disc-shaped lights flashing across the sky from east to west, moving in a V formation. The discs were estimated to be the size of golf balls and travelled at high speed.

Mysterious Explosions and Flying Saucers

This section discusses baffling inexplicable explosions accompanied by vivid flashes of light and strange objects, often occurring in clear weather. It mentions incidents in Nelson and Greymouth, New Zealand, accompanied by flashes and fast-moving objects. A recent explosion in Auckland rocked the Central Police Headquarters. The article notes that while astronomers often dismiss these as "meteoric origin," such explanations are not convincing to witnesses. It references Aime Michel's book "TRUTH ABOUT FLYING SAUCERS" and Lt. Plantier's theory for "Ideal Interplanetary Propulsion."

"Orbit," We're Really Going to Miss You

This section is an editorial piece lamenting the cessation of publication of the monthly journal "ORBIT," published by Len Stringfield. The writer praises "ORBIT" as a "fine research paper" and an "invaluable dossier." Reasons for ceasing publication, as explained by Stringfield, include an overwhelming influx of mail requiring prompt follow-up, which strains resources. He also suggests that the journal's format and theories may be out of character with the growing trend in saucerdom towards "demagogues, extremists and sensation hunters," and the need to show sympathy with astronauts. The writer expresses gratitude for Stringfield's co-operation and contributions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are numerous sightings of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) across various locations, witness testimonies, and attempts to provide explanations, ranging from mundane (toy balloons, aircraft) to more speculative (Air Ministry equipment, potential extraterrestrial craft). The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and open-mindedness towards the UFO phenomenon, while also acknowledging the need for rigorous evidence and critical analysis. The article "Orbit, We're Really Going to Miss You" highlights the dedication of researchers in the field and the challenges they face. The overall tone suggests a fascination with the unexplained and a desire to understand these phenomena, even if definitive answers are elusive.

This issue of "Flying Saucers" magazine, dated March 1, 1957, Volume III, No. 12, is published by the Civilian Saucer Investigation (N.Z.) and focuses on a variety of UFO-related topics, including recent crashes, historical sightings, and scientific theories.

"An Orgy of Crashes"

The lead article, "An Orgy of Crashes," prefaced an editorial from the Cincinnati Enquirer on February 6, 1957, highlighting a grim 72-hour period in U.S. aviation history with 11 American aircraft crashes or collisions. The author suggests that these incidents may not be mere coincidence but could follow a pattern of mysterious disasters, with early press accounts hinting at a "smothering of evidence." Specific cases are detailed: Case 281 in Van Nuys, California, involving a collision between an airliner and a jet fighter; Case 282 in New York, where a packed airliner crashed after takeoff with a brilliant flash of light; Case 283 in Chapman, Maine, where an Air Force jet crashed while tracking an unidentified aircraft; and Case 284 near the Isle of Pines, Cuba, where two B-47 Stratojet bombers collided, with reports of a "huge bolt of fire." The editor notes that the Air Force's insistence that saucers do not exist leads them to label any unidentified aircraft as such. The article questions the official explanations and suggests that mysterious forces or objects might be responsible, particularly through a "force field" that could cause disintegration or power failure.

Government Secrecy and Investigations

Under the headline "New U.S. Check on Flying Saucers," the magazine reports on the formation of the "National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena" in Washington, D.C. This privately supported body is headed by Major Donald E. Keyhoe and includes a notable Board of Governors, including Rear Admiral Delmer S. Fahrney. Admiral Fahrney, speaking at a press conference, urged the public to report sightings and stated that there is an urgent need for investigation as long as unidentified flying objects navigate the atmosphere. The committee aims to encourage flying saucer clubs nationwide to supply trained observers and analyze reports with the co-operation of leading scientists. An Air Force spokesman confirmed ongoing investigations but stated no concrete evidence of flying saucers had been found, with most reports having logical explanations.

John Starr, writing for "The Daily Mail," reports that a former U.S. Marine Corps major, Donald Keyhoe, charges the U.S. Government with keeping hundreds of "official" reports of UFO sightings secret. A top-priority system for reporting UFOs was allegedly set up, enforcing a blackout under regulations that could lead to imprisonment for pilots disclosing official reports. Only "hoaxes, practical jokes, and erroneous U.F.O. reports" are reportedly allowed to be given to the Press. Examples cited include the disappearance of an F-89 Jet after radar contact with a "machine" over Lake Superior and a "Saucer" Chase in Oklahoma City in 1954 where Air Force jets allegedly intercepted and chased 15 flying saucers.

The "CIVILIAN SAUCER INVESTIGATION (N.Z.)" organization, based in Onehunga, S.E.5, invites membership for continued research and investigation of UFOs and related happenings, announcing general meetings for 1957.

Historical Sightings and Theories

Dr. Hugh Dryden, director of the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics, is challenged by Major Donald Keyhoe to prove his claim that flying saucers do not exist. Keyhoe asserts that his organization possesses new evidence of withheld facts. A letter from Senator Richard B. Russell, chairman of the Armed Services Committee, dated January 17, 1956, is revealed, indicating that the Senator saw "something" in Europe and that "affected agencies of the Government" advised against publicizing the matter.

The article "FORTIAN PHENOMENA PILES UP... STRANGE BUT TRUE EVENTS ARE ON THE INCREASE" discusses various phenomena, including "glass meteorites" and the theory that flying saucers might be large masses of glass from outer space, shattered into tiny bits, known as tektites. Reports from "The Auckland Star" describe these tektites as possibly being remains of an ancient glass planet. Another report from Sydney details mysterious explosions of glasses and bottles in a house.

"The Auckland Star" Reports

Two reports from "The Auckland Star" are featured. One, dated March 18, 1957, discusses "GLASS IS FALLING FROM SKY," explaining tektites as shattered glass from outer space. The other, dated March 9, 1957, titled "BANG GO THE BOTTLES AND NO ONE KNOWS WHY," describes mysterious explosions of glassware in a Sydney house.

"The Mail" and Historical Sightings (1909)

Several articles from "The Mail" detail sightings from 1909, predating modern UFO reports. These include reports of "airships" and "mysterious lights" seen in various locations across New Zealand, such as Kelso, Nelson, Island Bay (Wellington), Feilding, and Napier. Descriptions range from moving lights resembling railway engines to objects shaped like boats. The article "MYSTERIOUS OBJECTS HAUNT SKIES OF 1909, MANY STRANGE SIGHTS WITNESSED SOME 48 YEARS AGO..." reviews these historical accounts, noting that many were attributed to optical illusions or misidentifications, though some remained unexplained. The "Topical Comment" section humorously addresses the sightings, with "Mofussilite" offering a caustic critique, suggesting that many reports were exaggerated or due to "silly season" copy. The article also contrasts the speeds of these early "airships" with modern aircraft, suggesting that people relate observed performance to what they know to be possible.

Scientific Theories and Explanations

Wilbur B. Smith's technical paper, "Magnetic Engineer's Theory May Explain Some Saucer Reports," proposes the "BETATRON EFFECT" theory. This theory suggests that phenomena like flying saucers and luminous spots could be explained by plasma vortices formed in regions of increasing earth magnetic field intensity. These vortices, composed of ionized particles, could create a bubble of plasma within a magnetic flux sheath, exerting pressure and potentially moving in the direction of a magnetic field divergence.

Dr. Benjamin D. Benincasa contributes "APPREHENSIVE SCIENTISTS SAY EARTH TO TIP OVER EVENTUALLY," discussing the hypothesis that the accumulation of snow and ice in Antarctica might cause the Earth to capsize. He contrasts this with the opposing view that increased ice mass could stabilize the planet. The article references historical accounts and geological evidence, including a large submarine crust-split discovered by Columbia University's Lamont Geological Observatory.

"Life on Mars?" and Other Reports

The article "Life on Mars?" speculates on the possibility of life on Mars and the implications of its lower gravitational force. It also mentions the U.S. payment to the Wright brothers for their flying machine and Edison's prediction of mail-carrying aeroplanes.

Practical Jokers and Explanations

A section on "Practical Jokers" highlights an incident in New Zealand where a fire balloon was allegedly sent up to fool residents into reporting an "airship." The "Topical Comment" section humorously suggests that sightings of "mysterious lights" often coincided with the consumption of specific brands of whisky, implying a link between inebriation and perception.

"The Betatron Effect"

This section elaborates on Wilbur B. Smith's theory, explaining how plasma vortices, magnetic fields, and electron motion could create luminous phenomena observable by radar and visually, potentially explaining some UFO sightings. The theory suggests these vortices could avoid aircraft due to magnetic interactions.

Reporting Sightings

The magazine urges readers to report all sightings of "Unidentified Flying Objects" to C.S.I., emphasizing that requests for confidentiality will be respected. It lists essential details to include in reports, such as location, date, time, description of the object, its behavior, weather conditions, and number of witnesses.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the persistent mystery of unidentified flying objects, the possibility of government cover-ups, the analysis of both historical and contemporary sightings, and the exploration of scientific and speculative theories to explain these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging public participation in reporting and investigating UFOs, while also critically examining official statements and offering various explanations, from the scientific to the more speculative.

Title: FLYING SAUCERS
Issue: No. 2, January, 1957
Publisher: International Lunar Society
Country: England
Language: English

This issue of "FLYING SAUCERS" magazine, published by the International Lunar Society, delves into a variety of topics related to UFOs, space phenomena, and geophysical theories.

Antarctic Ice Loads and Earthquakes

The magazine opens with a discussion on a massive, 45,000-mile-long crustal rift believed to be an earthquake belt-line. Theories are presented suggesting that the immense downward pressure of Antarctic ice loads may be causing buckling and strata-snapping, leading to undersea earthquake disturbances. The possibility of a terrestrial-tilt situation due to super-abundant Antarctic glaciations is also raised. The article contrasts the views of Engineer Brown's followers, who link the rift to seismic activity, with the 'Tetrahedronists,' who propose that added glacial weight in the Southern Hemisphere would enhance Earth's stability.

International Lunar Society Bulletin

The International Lunar Society (ILS) Bulletin reports on recent astronomical observations and activities. Dr. Dinsmore Alter has secured impressive lunar photographs. Mr. Eric H. Cooper has identified new craterlets on the N.W. inner wall of Bullialdus. Mr. Bernard Forbes met the daughter of the late Dr. Copeland and received photographs of a lunar globe constructed 70 years prior. A significant observation by the President on January 6th, 1957, at 16:46 U.T. involved seeing a bright flash of apparent magnitude 5 near Lavoisier on the moon's limb, lasting for one second. Mr. J. E. Westfall has made drawings of lunar features. The bulletin also notes approved papers for the journal from various individuals and mentions that material for the second journal is due by March 31st. Sr. Flavio A. Pereira has been appointed Recorder for Brazil.

UFO Sightings and Observer Corps

Charles McK. Longcroft provides "Saucer Sighting Hints" for readers interested in joining the International U.F.O. Observer Corps. Membership is open to subscribers and non-subscribers for a fee. The hints cover various aspects of observation, including using a compass, observing TV picture flutter, noting animal behavior, identifying contrails, optimal viewing times (dawn and dusk), proximity to geological fault lines and airfields, and the importance of using binoculars or telescopes. Specific advice is given on estimating object size and height, accurately recording times, and the crucial need for witnesses. Readers are also asked to print their names when submitting correspondence.

Harry Garvin, The Missing Scientist

Hector C. Tyler explains the inspiration behind his story "The Story Behind the Headlines," which was sparked by an alleged encounter with a flying saucer in the Everglades. Tyler clarifies that his story is fiction but expresses his belief in the possibility of extraterrestrial life, particularly from Mars, due to its age and potential for advanced inhabitants. He mentions writing a sequel about Harry Garvin's return from Mars.

From Across the Tasman

This section includes a thank you to Mr. Clive Chapman from Sydney for a donation and a poem by his wife, Edith Chapman, titled "The Spaceman." The poem reflects on the potential encounter with an extraterrestrial visitor and the hope for learning and peace.

Long John and the Party Line

The magazine features "Long John," a popular radio personality in the United States who hosts a unique radio forum called "The Party Line" on Mutual's station WOR in New York. Broadcast daily from 1:00 to 5:30 a.m., the program has evolved into a broad-minded public forum for discussing 'borderland sciences' such as Flying Saucers, reincarnation, and psycho-kenesis. The article encourages listeners to contact Mutual Broadcasting Co. to advocate for the program to be broadcast on the entire Mutual network, emphasizing the opportunity for widespread discussion of U.F.O. topics.

UFOs on TV in Australia

A report details the first factual U.F.O. program aired on ATN Channel 7 Television Station in Sydney, Australia. The program featured an interview with Dr. M. Lindtner and Mr. A. Tomas from the U.F.O. Investigation Centre. Dr. Lindtner confirmed having seen saucers, which stimulated his interest in the subject, and noted that as a former pilot, he would not mistake conventional aircraft for UFOs. Mr. Tomas stated that the U.S. Air Force considers interplanetary explanations possible. The program also showcased UFO photographs, including "Kentucky tracer bullets objects," Brazilian discs, the "Parisian saucer," Adamski's mother ships, and objects photographed by the U.S. Coast Guard.

Space Travel Developments

An article titled "IT'S LATER THAN YOU THINK! MARS COULD BE 15 DAYS AWAY" reports on two potential spaceship propulsion methods developed by the U.S. Air Force: photon drive and ionic drive. Dr. H. A. Wooster of the Air Research Development Command indicates that contracts are in place for further experiments. Ionic drive is considered the better method, capable of operating in less-than-perfect vacuums. The concept of using rocket tugs launched from a space platform to tow spaceships out of Earth's atmosphere is also mentioned.

Book Reviews and Listings

The issue includes a review of Max Miller's "SAUCERS," described as a large volume on the U.F.O. enigma. It also features an advertisement for a "NEW TREND BOOK ARRIVING SOON" by Max B. Miller, titled "FLYING SAUCERS FACT OR FICTION?", a 128-page publication with photographs. A comprehensive "FLYING SAUCER BOOK LIST" is provided, cataloging numerous books on the subject with their authors, prices, and availability from The Flying Saucer Book Shop, operated by Murray Organisation Ltd. in Auckland, New Zealand.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes interest in UFO phenomena, encouraging active participation from readers through observation, reporting, and advocacy for broader discussion (e.g., the "Long John" radio show). There's a clear emphasis on scientific investigation, even when discussing speculative theories like those concerning Antarctic ice loads and potential extraterrestrial visitors. The publication aims to inform and engage its readership on the latest developments, theories, and sightings within the UFO community, while also touching upon related scientific and geophysical topics. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting various viewpoints and encouraging further research.