Panorama - Vol 07 No 02 - 1968

Magazine Overview

Title: PANORAMA
Issue: Vol. 7. No. 2
Date: March-April 1968
Publisher: UFOPLA
Country: Australia
Price: 25c. Aust.

This issue of Panorama magazine, the official organ of UFOPLA (Unidentified Flying Objects Phenomena Investigation Australia), presents a methodical approach to identifying flying saucers and discusses international UFO research, particularly from the Soviet Union.

Editorial: Identifying the Saucers, Logically

The editorial, based on a talk given by Editor Fred P. Stone, outlines a systematic procedure for assessing UFO sightings. It emphasizes the importance of remaining objective and unemotional, a quality often lacking in some UFO enthusiasts. The process involves eliminating known phenomena by asking a series of questions:

1. Is it a satellite? With hundreds of satellites in orbit, this is a common possibility.
2. Is it a plane or jet? These familiar objects are usually distinguishable by lights, jet streams, and proximity to airfields.
3. Is it a weather balloon? These have specific purposes and behaviors related to wind gauging.
4. Is it some weather condition? This includes optical illusions and atmospheric phenomena like sundogs and temperature inversions.
5. Is it a planet or star? Known astronomical objects follow predictable paths.
6. Is it some other known phenomenon? This category covers less common but explainable occurrences.

The editorial stresses that if an object's behavior deviates significantly from the known patterns of these categories, it warrants further investigation as a potential UFO.

Behavioural Analysis of Known Objects

• Satellites: Move slowly across the sky in an arc. Their visibility times and paths are generally known.
• Planes/Jets: Easily distinguished by landing lights, jet streams, and proximity to airports. Data is usually available.
• Meteorological Balloons: Sent up from specific locations, their behavior is generally predictable and related to wind direction. Objects moving against the wind or exhibiting erratic movements are unlikely to be meteorological balloons.
• Weather Conditions: Can cause optical illusions, but usually do not present as solid, defined objects with consistent movement patterns. However, the editor cautions that some weather phenomena can mimic UFOs.
• Planets/Stars: These celestial bodies follow predictable courses. Deviations in their appearance or movement, or their presence at unexpected times, could suggest something else.

The editor advises investigators to use tools like binoculars and compasses, compare observations with known objects, and remain cautious, avoiding assumptions and never fabricating evidence. Confidentiality is also stressed.

Soviet Scientists Tackle U.F.O.'s

This section reports on the growing international interest in UFOs, citing Assistant Professor Felix Zigel of the Moscow Institute of Aviation. Zigel suggests that solving the UFO problem could lead to radical rethinking in science, akin to discoveries in astronomy or physics.

Initially, UFO reports in the Soviet Union were confined to individual enthusiasts. However, a committee of scientists was formed to systematically study the phenomenon. They have collected approximately 200 sightings.

Reported Sightings in the Soviet Union

• July-October 1967: Crescent-shaped UFOs, described as luminous orange-coloured discs with a diameter of 15-20 ft. of arc, were observed over southern parts of the Soviet Union. These objects flew with their outward bend first and had a surface luminosity similar to the moon.
• Daytime Sightings: V.I. Duginiv reported a round disc, about one-third the sun's diameter, moving slowly eastwards over Kherson.
• Latvian Observations (July 26, 1965): Astronomers observed an unusually bright star flying westwards, which binoculars revealed as a small flat spot and a telescope showed as a lens-shaped disc.
• Plane Observations: In 1956, V.I. Akkuratov reported a strange, pear-coloured lens-shaped vehicle with wavy, pulsating edges that maneuvered to avoid collision and then rapidly ascended.

Professor Zigel claims that these Soviet UFO observations fit the classification of objects accepted in the West. He asserts that the UFO problem has become global and requires international research, lamenting that sensationalism and anti-scientific assertions have hindered progress. He expresses respect for American scientists like Professor J. Hainek and D. MacDonald for their efforts to draw the scientific community's attention to the UFO problem.

Zigel criticizes some scientists in both the Soviet Union and the US for denying the problem's existence. He advocates for systematic instrumental study, including obtaining good photographs and spectra, to determine if UFOs are of plasma origin or extraterrestrial.

Is There Life Out There?

This article, referencing a Sunday Mirror piece from January 14, 1963, discusses astronomers being puzzled by sudden bursts of radio-energy emanating from Jupiter. One suggestion is that these disturbances occur in Jupiter's radiation zones, similar to Earth's Van Allen belts.

It also references an article from the December 1965 issue of "THE" magazine, noting that Jupiter is behaving like a star, radiating energy absorbed from the sun and heat from its interior. This 'split personality' has been confirmed by a University of Arizona astronomer.

The article connects these astronomical observations to predictions by Dino Kraspedon in his book "My Contact with Flying Saucers," which foretold the coming of another sun into our solar system. It suggests these events align with Biblical prophecies of a new heaven and earth, with the Earth potentially moving into a new orbit.

The editor also points out that science informed the public that the sun had reversed its polarities years ago, an event that seems to have been overlooked by the scientific community and the public.

Doleful Predictions by J. Allen Hynek & Otto Binder

Dr. J. Allen Hynek, in a December 1967 "Playboy" article, expresses concern about potential news headlines announcing that Russians have solved the UFO mystery or made first contact with aliens. He notes that the Soviet Union officially denies the existence of the UFO problem.

However, Hynek points to clues suggesting otherwise: a Russian astronomer admitted to him that a problem existed, and a Soviet organization for UFO study reportedly sent a note to an American scientist. The Russians also announced their participation in a future international conference on interstellar communication.

More significantly, a recent article in the Russian magazine 'Omena' by Felix U. Zigel discussed the strong possibility of UFO existence. Zigel's article, part of a forthcoming book "Inhabited Cosmos," calls for a "many-sided, careful scientific investigation" of the UFO phenomenon, suggesting that such an investigation is likely already underway within the USSR, given their history of strategic announcements regarding space advancements.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a rational, scientific, and logical approach to UFO investigation. It advocates for evidence-based analysis, the elimination of known explanations, and careful observation. The editorial stance is one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging thorough research while cautioning against emotionalism and unsubstantiated claims. There is a clear interest in international UFO research, with a particular focus on developments in the Soviet Union and their scientific community's engagement with the topic.

Title: PANORAMA
Issue: No 2
Volume: 7
Date: Feb - March 1968
Publisher: A. E. Bran
Country: Australia
Language: English

This issue of Panorama, dated February-March 1968, delves into various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, government investigations, and historical mysteries. The cover headline asks, "Will it happen in 1968? (2)".

Article: "Will it happen in 1968?" (Continued)

The article begins by referencing Dr. Hynek's discussion of UFO theories, noting his lack of objection to the theory that UFOs are 'flying apparatus of other planets'. It suggests that the USSR may have been studying UFOs thoroughly, while the United States was only beginning to take the issue seriously. The author questions Dr. Hynek's statement, suggesting it might be a lie or a cover-up. Information from Jim and Coral Lorenzen indicates the existence of an official UFO board in Washington, D.C., established in August 1952 after UFOs were sighted over the nation's Capitol. A large mother ship was reportedly tracked for hours over Wilmington, Delaware.

The article then highlights Otto Binder's book, "THAT WE REALLY KNOW ABOUT FLYING SAUCERS," as an objective survey of the UFO problem. Binder is quoted expressing concern that the Russians might achieve a 'Space First' by publicly recognizing flying saucers as visitors from outer space. He criticizes the U.S. government for foisting a 'fairy-tale' of 'nothing' onto the public, stating that the United States is behind other nations in understanding the phenomenon and has shirked leadership, potentially allowing the Soviet Union to make a dramatic announcement of contact.

An associate from a mid-western city shares a cautionary tale about Mark Probert and the 'Yada', who were reluctant to share information about flying saucers for fear of government reprisal, suggesting that anyone with evidence would be taken to a mental institution.

Article: "Will it happen in 1962?" (Continued)

This section continues the discussion on government treatment of 'contactees'. It references answers received by the Rio Williamson contact group 15 years prior, via radio and ouija board, from 'Aug. 2, 1952' and 'Aug. 31, 1952'. These messages speak of the world being observed for 75,000 years, the struggle against 'evil planetary men', and a call for unity with 'good men of Saras' (Earth). The messages also state that 'certain great powers' wish to see humanity destroyed but that these powers fear humanity, and that visitors from other planets are here to help.

Article: JUPITER' S Strange Behaviour

This section, continuing from page 8, discusses unusual celestial events. It suggests that if such events are possible, governments might be right to keep them quiet to avoid panic, or they may simply not understand the implications. The author notes Jupiter's odd behavior and a potential reversal of the sun's polarity, indicating that 'things are not normal "out there"'. The article posits that such occurrences in the solar system cannot happen without consequential effects on the smaller magnetic forces and the overall balance of the system. It acknowledges that even if previous claims were wrong, the admittance by scientific men of astronomy that such events are possible warrants attention, especially regarding their potential effects on Earth's orbit and place in the solar system.

Article: CONTACT AT COLORADO SPRINGS

This article discusses the investigation into UFOs at the University of Colorado Springs, funded by the U.S. Air Force. It notes that investigators have avoided 'kooks and pranksters' to maintain a 'strictly logical and scientifical basis'. The article reveals that in 1899, Nikola Tesla established a laboratory in Colorado Springs with high-voltage radio transmission equipment. Tesla reported observing 'electrical actions' that appeared to be signals, periodically and with order, which he suspected were due to 'intelligent control', feeling he was the first to hear a 'greeting of one planet to another'. Tesla's prediction that by the end of the 20th century, all men would be aware of extra-terrestrial communication is mentioned, though the current study at Colorado Springs is not expected to contribute significantly.

Article: COLORADO SPRINGS INVESTIGATION. SOME SURPRISES FOR SOME INVESTIGATORS.

This piece expresses skepticism about the 'open enquiry and investigation' into the UFO mystery by the U.S. government, suggesting that the people controlling the government would not allow any real open declarations, even if an honest investigation were made. The author believes the grant was made to 'quieten and pacify' public demand for an investigation, allowing the government to later claim it was negative and thus silence the public. The article states that the investigators have not had the expected treatment, implying they are being stifled. It suggests that the 'real TRUTH about the flying saucers' is not considered helpful for 'world domination' plans and therefore must be suppressed. The author concludes that while powers on Earth can be controlled, 'powers beyond our Earth' cannot be stifled, quoting St. Paul about wrestling against 'principalities, powers in high places'.

It is reported that there have been 'dramatic changes' in the organization of the Condon Committee at the University. While some committee members were impressed by the evidence, there are reports that Dr. Condon had a negative report, to be followed by a positive one from two committee members, Doctors Saunders and Levine. However, these two doctors were suddenly dropped from the committee in February 1968, reportedly due to incompetence. Other staff members have also resigned. The article suggests this indicates a 'squeeze' on those wanting to take a positive stand.

Article: MOON PHENOMENA. From Dan Fry's Understanding.

This section discusses potential future discoveries about the moon's surface, with probes and photographs. It references reports of strange phenomena, lights, objects, and bridges on the moon dating back to 1869. Jay Schilling reported historical facts, including observations of bright lights in geometric patterns by a member of the Royal Astronomical Society of England in 1869. In 1912, U.S.F.B. Harris observed a 'huge object' moving above the moon's surface, described as opaque black and approximately 50 miles wide. Over the next 40 years, 'domes' were periodically reported. On July 29, 1953, John J. O'Neill reported a curious sighting of an object spanning 12 miles near Mare Crisum.

Further reports on moon phenomena include observations by Dr. H. Percy Wilkins and Dr. Patrick Mooro. In 1958, Russian astronomer Dr. Nikolai A. Krozyon sighted an oval-shaped object near the moon's surface radiating a glow, confirmed by two U.S. astronomers. In 1963, astronomers at Lowell Observatory observed red glows on the rim of Aristarchus. The article notes that skeptics have ridiculed these reports, suggesting possible activity on the other side of the moon.

Article: ANGELS HAIR AND SPIDERS WEBS ???

This article details reports from Adelaide and surrounding country areas in early May of material falling on properties, leading to controversial letters and a TV interview. An 'investigator' claimed the material was 'angels hair' from flying saucers. However, the article contrasts the behavior of this local material with known characteristics of 'angels hair'.

Known characteristics of 'angels hair' include:
1. Falling at odd times when UFOs appear.
2. Melting on human touch, leaving a greenish-yellow stain.
3. Disintegrating as a mass within 24 to 36 hours after falling.

The local material, however, was still present after 3 days. The article criticizes the TV show for not conducting actual tests, suggesting it was an attempt to display knowledge the reporter lacked.

The committee of the J.F.O.P.I.A. society issued a public statement disassociating itself from the claims that the material was angel's hair. While not denying that such material might be associated with flying saucer history, they felt the facts of this case did not fit the known data. A subsequent investigation by the curator of the Adelaide Museum found the material to be 'spiders web' from a special species of spiders.

Article: U.F.O. - B.C.

This section, written by A.E. Bran, explores the possibility of extraterrestrial visitors throughout history. It begins with a narrative prologue describing a hunter encountering a 'space-man' and a disc-shaped object. The author asserts that evidence continually suggests visitors from space have been landing on Earth for thousands of years. The article poses questions about whether human ancestors could have come from another planet or system, referencing the construction of the pyramids of Cheops and Stonehenge, and the existence of flying craft in ancient times, as documented in old Sanscrit writings.

It questions modern humanity's perceived intellectual superiority, suggesting past civilizations were equally, if not more, intelligent and possessed knowledge of physics, metaphysics, astronomy, astrology, and esoterics beyond our current understanding. The article posits that atomic power may have existed in past ages and contributed to the destruction of ancient civilizations. It also mentions evidence of lethal rays used in warfare and aerial transport in ancient texts.

The author reflects on current global trends, expressing concern about a 'drifting apart' and a return to 'futile bigotry and suspicions'. He believes humanity must learn to live in peace and unity to avoid repeating historical mistakes. The article concludes by stating that while the cause of truth may be a struggle against powerful forces, it is not futile, and quotes "INGOD WE TRUST".

Article: South Australian Sightings - Feb - March 1968

This section details several UFO sightings in South Australia.

• February 29th, 1968: Mr. Pat Sexton and friends observed a bright metallic disc, about the size of a tea saucer, moving slowly from West to East for approximately 20 minutes. A jet aircraft appeared while the disc was visible but disappeared when the jet passed.
• March 16th, 1968: Graham Kearns observed a bluish-white pinpoint of light in the sky that stopped, hung motionless, and then disappeared. He insists it was not a satellite or plane.
• March 25th, 1968: A housewife (Mrs. H) observed a bright blue-white light, about the size of a cent coin, hovering and then moving in tight concentric circles before fading away. The sighting scared her, causing her to lose sleep.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Panorama include the ongoing mystery of UFOs, skepticism towards official government explanations, the potential for Soviet advancements in space and UFO research, and the exploration of ancient astronaut theories. The editorial stance appears to be critical of government secrecy and dismissive of official explanations, advocating for a more open and honest investigation into the UFO phenomenon. There is also a strong interest in historical anomalies and the possibility of extraterrestrial influence on ancient civilizations. The magazine also addresses the importance of critical analysis, as seen in the debunking of the 'angel's hair' claims, and the potential implications of celestial events on Earth.

This document is a scanned page from "UFO News," Volume 1, Issue 12, dated 1968. The page contains reader comments, an index of articles, and a brief editorial note.

Comments Section

The comments section features a detailed analysis of a sighting, with one commenter suggesting that "Mr. Sarton and lds friends" might have mistaken a balloon for something else, attributing the perceived gyrations to wind pressure. The commenter expresses doubt about the "Cream Koermo agiting" and notes that the object appeared to hang stationary for about 60 seconds. They also consider the possibility of the object moving rapidly away from the viewer, appearing stationary due to perspective.

Another comment discusses a sighting by "Mrs. H. of Filhonrsh." The initial thought was that it could be a "net" balloon or the planet Jupiter. However, upon further reflection, the commenter considers that balloons released at night often carry two different colored lights (red and white). When the balloon twists with the wind, the lights appear to shift. The described object emitted a bright blue light, leading the commenter to conclude it was not a balloon. The commenter acknowledges that visual distortions can occur, but states that Mrs. H.'s description did not fit such a scenario, and the object did move. This sighting is ultimately categorized as "not positive intricat."

Index

The index lists several articles and reports within the issue:

• Editorial: "Identifying the Daveers Mon Phenomena": Pages 1-4
• Report of Lecture given to matour Radio Society: Pages 4-5
• Soviet Scientists tackle UTO: Pages 6-8
• Is there Life out there?: Pages 8 & 11
• Will it Hapon in 1968?: Pages 8 & 11
• "Angel's Fair Reports": Pages 13 & 19
• U.r.O. B.C. by A.J. Bran: Pages 15 & 18
• Sighting reports and commonst: Pages 19-20
• Cortacia Colorado: Page 12
• Surposes from Colorado: Pages 13 & 14

Pricing and Publication Details

The issue is priced at 40 cents and appears to be from the 1960s, specifically referencing 1968 in one of the index entries.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue appear to be the investigation of unidentified aerial phenomena (UFOs), scientific perspectives on sightings, and eyewitness accounts. The editorial stance, as suggested by the inclusion of diverse reports and comments, seems to be one of open inquiry into UFO phenomena, while also presenting skeptical viewpoints and possible conventional explanations such as balloons or atmospheric effects. The inclusion of reports on Soviet scientists and speculation about extraterrestrial life indicates a broad scope of interest within the UFO field.