Panorama - Vol 08 No 01 - 1969

Magazine Overview

Title: PANORAMA
Issue Date: January-February 1969
Publisher: U.F.O.P.I.A. (Unidentified Flying Objects Phenomena Investigation, Australia)
Type: Official Magazine

This issue of Panorama marks the 16th year of publication by its editor, Fred P. Stone. The magazine began as the Australian Saucer Record, which ran for nine volumes of quarterly editions. Following the inevitable break with the original society, the magazine was renamed Panorama, and its continued publication is attributed to reader subscriptions and encouragement.

The editor acknowledges that the magazine has not always been a first-class production, often facing challenges and being produced single-handedly. Despite these difficulties, the magazine has persevered, unlike some others that have folded or resorted to questionable tactics. The editor expresses gratitude to loyal readers and to divine aid for keeping the publication afloat.

Editorial Stance and Themes

The editorial emphasizes a core faith in striving for progress while maintaining fundamental beliefs. It encourages readers to "Have FAITH in all that is GOOD. Choosing wisely and discriminatingly." The editor reflects on the nature of love, cautioning against sentimentality and advocating for wisdom in its application. This philosophy is extended to the study of UFOs, suggesting that individuals must learn lessons the "hard way" and that higher sources, referred to as "Space Brothers," offer guidance.

The editorial anticipates "many shocks" in the coming year, urging readers to reorient their thinking and resist external control. It foresees a potential "revolution on the thinking patterns of mens minds" and a "GREAT AWAKENING IS AT HAND." The piece touches on the idea that people have been "played for suckers" by media and education, but a path of truth is available for those who seek it. The editor stresses the importance of focusing on the "people of the saucers" rather than just the craft itself.

Key Articles and Reports

"NIL DISPARADUM" (Editorial)

This editorial, spanning several pages, reviews the history of the magazine and the editor's journey. It highlights the challenges faced, the support received from loyal readers, and the editor's belief in a higher purpose and guidance from "Space Brothers." The editor expresses a strong conviction that extraterrestrial intelligences are visiting Earth and that humanity is on the cusp of a significant awakening. He also discusses the importance of wisdom and discernment in understanding phenomena and resisting manipulation.

"THEY BELIEVE IN SAUCERS"

This section features statements from scientists regarding UFOs. Dr. Stanton T. Friedman, an Astronuclear Physicist, is quoted from a 1968 paper presented to the U.S. House of Representatives, stating his conclusion that Earth is visited by "intelligently controlled vehicles whose origin is extraterrestrial." He acknowledges not knowing their origin, purpose, or operation but cites eyewitness, photographic, and radar reports as evidence. An earlier report in the U.S.A. National Enquirer quotes Friedman stating that "Flying Saucers... come from other planets. Advanced beings man the controls." The article also mentions U.S.A. scientist Prof. James E. Mc Donald, who reportedly stated that UFOs are visitors from outer space sent by highly intelligent civilizations.

STRANGE EVENTS AROUND ADELAIDE. WERE UFOS. RESPONSIBLE.?

This is a multi-part investigative report detailing several unusual occurrences in and around Adelaide, Australia, primarily in late 1968 and early 1969.

Part 1: The Noise and Lawn Markings (January 18-19, 1969)

• Incident: On the evening of January 18, 1969, a loud, strange noise was heard by multiple witnesses. The following morning, unusual markings were discovered on a lawn, described as black sludge oil and sticky, forming geometrical designs in an arc. The substance later changed color and consistency.
• Investigation: The editor visited the site and collected samples. The markings were measured and found to be in precise geometrical patterns. The substance was analyzed by a Doctor of Chemistry at Adelaide University, who identified it as containing carbon and graphite of a very fine nature, suggesting further testing.
• Witnesses: The noise was heard by the Stephens family and others in the vicinity. Mr. Stephens' father associated the noise with the markings, suggesting a possible connection to Flying Saucers.
• Further Analysis: Attempts to have the material further analyzed by the press were unsuccessful. Professor Emeritus Sir John Cleland suggested the substance "MAY" be a fungus ("fuligo Septica"), but the editor questions how a fungus could form such precise geometric patterns.

Part 2: More Lawn Marks and Noise Reports

• Mr. Warner's Case: A similar incident occurred about 5 miles away, involving strange patterns on a lawn, including squares and circles, arranged in a triangle. Mr. Warner also reported hearing a similar loud noise earlier in the morning.
• Hills Area Report: A lady in the hills area reported a large circular formation of the substance on her lawn, approximately fifteen feet in diameter.
• Commonalities: In all cases, the areas showed no signs of actual landing, suggesting a hovering object. Reports of the noise were widespread and consistent in description.
• Noise Timings: Several witnesses reported hearing the noise around 3:20 a.m. on January 19th, with some reports indicating it came from the North West and proceeded South. A power failure from the Osborne powerhouse occurred around the same time.

Part 3: The Case of the Strange Marks (Footprints or What?) (January 16th)

• Incident: On January 16th, around 9:45 p.m., a report was received about unusual marks on a driveway made of hard shell grit and sand mixture. The indentations were described as being made by something heavy.
• Investigation: The editor and associates examined the marks, which were about 4 to 5 inches in diameter and 9 to 10 inches, with a blunted void shape. They varied in size and were not round. The marks ran for about ten feet and then stopped abruptly, with no sign of return. Plaster casts were taken.
• Weight and Origin: Attempts to replicate the marks by jumping on the soil were unsuccessful, indicating the object was very heavy. The editor's impression was that a "very heavy object" made the marks.
• Noise Connection: Mr. Winton, the editor's friend, reported hearing a very loud, strange noise around 3:00 a.m. that morning, described as a loud start-up and a "swoosh," with a rapid take-off. He emphasized it was not any known aircraft or motor. This noise occurred approximately 10 hours after the driveway marks were discovered.

Summary of Strange Events:

The series concludes by summarizing the evidence: an unusual aerial object was possibly present, heard by reliable witnesses who distinguished it from normal aircraft, followed by the discovery of geometrical patterns on lawns and material analysis indicating carbon and graphite. Attempts to further analyze the material were unsuccessful, and a power failure was associated with the noise. The connection to UFOs remains unconfirmed, but the events are presented as highly inexplicable.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a belief in UFOs as extraterrestrial phenomena and advocates for an open-minded yet critical approach to investigation. The editor emphasizes faith, perseverance, and the importance of seeking truth, often framing the pursuit of UFO knowledge as a spiritual or higher calling. There is a recurring theme of resistance against mainstream skepticism and a belief that a significant "awakening" regarding UFOs is imminent. The editorial stance is one of unwavering dedication to the subject, despite challenges and a lack of definitive answers, encouraging readers to maintain their own faith and curiosity.

This issue of Panorama, Volume 8, No. 1, dated July 23rd, 1968, focuses on unexplained phenomena, including strange ground marks, historical prophecies, and numerous UFO sightings. The magazine, published by U.F.O. I.A., originates from New Zealand and is written in English.

The Case of the Strange Marks. Footprints or What?

The lead article discusses peculiar marks found near rose bushes, questioning whether they were footprints or evidence of a landing. The indentations were about one to two inches deep. The author admits to being stumped for an answer and questions if there's a connection to other incidents, noting the evidence was too hazy to be dogmatic. Later reports detail similar occurrences around Adelaide, with no geometric designs but a consistent substance. These marks were often found near fruit trees, leading to speculation that someone was sampling fruit. The article leans towards a fungi explanation but remains puzzled by the original designs and associated noises. A peculiar observation was that dogs in two cases became extremely disturbed and fearful, which is noted as unusual behavior.

Further News of Lawns Affected

This section expands on the lawn incidents, noting reports from various areas around Adelaide. The substance found was identical to previous cases, and the locations were near fruit trees. The size was comparable to human footprints or round blobs. The evidence suggested someone sampling fruit, reinforcing the fungi explanation, but the initial designs and noises remained unexplained. The disturbance of dogs was also highlighted as a significant, albeit potentially unrelated, event.

Involuntary Prophecy

This section explores instances where predictions made by authors and poets eerily foreshadowed actual events, suggesting a form of 'involuntary prophecy.' Examples include:

• The Moons of Mars: Jonathan Swift's 'Gulliver's Travels' (1726) described Mars having two moons, which were actually discovered in 1877.
• Jules Verne and Vanguard I: Verne wrote of a space journey in a 20,000-pound vehicle launched from Florida at latitude 28°N. Vanguard I, launched in 1957, weighed 24,000 pounds and was launched from Florida at latitude 28.5°N.
• The Wreck of the Titan: Morgan Robertson's 1898 story described a liner named 'The Titan,' 800 feet long with 70,000 horsepower, considered unsinkable. It sank after hitting an iceberg. In 1912, the White Star liner Titanic, similar in description, sank after hitting an iceberg.
• Thomas Wolfe's Premonition: In an unpublished novel, Wolfe centered his narrative around a pullman car numbered 'K 19.' After his death, his body was loaded onto a train in a pullman car also numbered 'K 19.'
• Christopher Smart: The 18th-century poet invoked 'Prosper, oh House of Cape,' and Jonathan Cape later became a publisher. He also cryptically mentioned 'Faber Fish,' and Faber later published him.

The author suggests that in light of growing interest in ESP, these inexplicable forecasts warrant consideration, especially in relation to mind control and UFOs.

Sixty Years Ago. Was It a UFO?

This article, from the Daily Times (Otago, New Zealand) dated July 23rd, 1968, revisits the 'Great Airship mystery of 1909.' The mystery involved sightings of mysterious lights and a cigar-shaped object over Kaitangata, New Zealand. Witnesses described it as cigar or boat-shaped, pointed at each end, and broad. It flew easily and turned without trouble. The Otago Daily Times sent a reporter to investigate, confirming the sightings. The object was seen by at least five people. Subsequent reports placed the sighting on the other side of the Blue Mountains and later near Auckland. Various explanations were suggested, including a spy machine, smuggler ship, local airship trials, or cosmic dust. The meteor theory was popular, but the object's behavior didn't fit. On August 7th, workmen described it as a cigar-shaped balloon with a carriage, featuring a powerful headlight. The news was overshadowed by the wreck of the Maori and the liner Varatah. Later, rusty machine tools were found, raising questions about their origin. The article concludes by comparing the 1909 airship mystery to current flying saucer speculations, suggesting the 'Kelso mystery ship' might have been a forerunner of UFOs.

Book Review: Harmonic 33° by Bruce Cathie

This review praises Bruce Cathie's book as unusual within UFO literature, presenting theories and ideas that connect UFO researchers. Cathie, an experienced airman, uses precise mathematical calculations to demonstrate a definite pattern, linking these patterns to ancient monoliths like the Great Pyramid and Stonehenge. The book suggests a past relationship to these structures and a current, urgent mission for UFOs. The reviewer recommends the book for its vast data and its ability to help readers understand that UFOs are on a mission tied to the world's past and future. The reviewer notes that Cathie overlooked Ayers Rock in Australia and Pedra Pintada in Peru as potential sites connected to magnetic lines of force.

South Australian Sightings (Nov - Dec 1968)

This section details several sightings in South Australia:

• November 20, 1968: An 18-year-old student teacher and 20 children saw six unusual objects near an oil refinery. Two were bright white, and four were dull metallic grey, described as discoid with a 'hump' or 'dome.' One white object dived and appeared to land. Later, two darker objects disappeared, while one white object spun. The landing site was devoid of trees and habitation. Red and blue lights were reportedly seen, though discounted due to daylight. The objects disappeared by 2:30 p.m.
• November 20, 1968: An 11-year-old boy, Barry Mercer, reported seeing five bright white circular lights traveling from west to east. They appeared self-luminous, double the size of satellites, and disappeared suddenly after 30 seconds.

The article notes that while witnesses are young, the reports warrant attention.

Sightings From Here and There

Spacemen Collected Sugar Cane (Queensland): A Romanian migrant, George Vas, and his family reported seeing three giant purple and yellow spacemen near Childers. The spacemen, described as having blocky arms and legs and shapeless bodies, gathered sugar cane and plant specimens. Their spaceship was described as 25-39 yards in diameter, resembling a Mexican sombrero, and emitted a brilliant color. After gathering specimens for about 10 minutes, the spacemen re-entered the craft and took off vertically, causing hair to stand on end due to magnetism. Mr. Vas claimed this was his third sighting.

Experts Check on Saturnian (Sydney NSW): Two Sydney UFO experts, Dr. Miran Limndtner and Dr. D. Herbison-Evans, investigated a claim by a 45-year-old carpenter who said he saw and spoke to a being from Saturn. The man had a similar experience 10 years prior, involving a burn mark on his coat shaped like the planet Saturn. He later saw a craft, about 40 ft. in diameter and 10 ft high, and spoke to a being described as 5 ft. 6 in. tall with long hair and silver shoes. The being reportedly said it came from 'Saturn.' The UFOIC later reported this case to be a hoax.

Victorian Flap (Melbourne): Thousands of Melbourne residents reported seeing 'hare-like objects' traveling in formation, described as red-orange rockets with tails. The objects were seen streaking across the sky. Explanations ranged from meteorites to UFOs. Descriptions included six objects bunched together, large and bright with tails, flying in perfect formation, and emitting sparks. About 1000 people in Sorrento witnessed similar moving objects.

Another Victorian UFO Sighting (Beaufort): A group of Beaufort residents reported seeing a large, bright UFO on five nights. It glowed bright-gold, hovered, and changed color before disappearing. It was described as much larger than a star and closer. The Weather Bureau and RAAF refused to comment.

Late News Items of Sightings

This section compiles various recent sightings:

• West Aust. Driver Reports UFO Chased Him at 80 M.P.H. (Kalgoorlie): A driver reported a cigar-shaped object chased his car for two miles before disappearing.
• February 16th: A large lighted object, larger than any star, was reported over Adelaide.
• February 27th: A large red cigar-shaped object was seen following an aircraft into a landing field.
• February 28th: A housewife reported a large object hovering in a paddock with a man in white overalls working on it. The craft then departed, leaving the sky lit up.
• February 19th: A large red object was observed hovering in the western sky, then moved north and later southwest. Subsequently, three large dark objects appeared, which then transformed into a well-lit object moving fastly northwest with lights all around and spinning.
• General Sightings: Reports confirmed many sightings, including a large object seen on January 22nd that moved too fast to be identified. On January 23rd, a large reddish object hovered and moved away quickly. The editor observed two very large objects moving in opposite directions, crossing each other's paths, which could have been satellites but were unusually large.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the unexplained, with a strong focus on UFO sightings and related phenomena. There's an underlying theme of seeking explanations for mysterious events, whether they are physical marks on the ground, historical premonitions, or aerial objects. The editorial stance appears open-minded, presenting various accounts and theories, even acknowledging when evidence is inconclusive or when a case is later deemed a hoax. The publication seems to encourage further investigation and welcomes explanations, emphasizing the need to keep an open mind regarding possibilities like ESP and mind control in relation to UFOs. The recurring mention of specific locations in Australia and New Zealand suggests a regional focus on UFO activity.

This issue of PANORAMA, Volume 8, Number 1, is presented with a new design and format, adhering to the standard British quarto size of 10 x 8 inches. The editorial staff expresses hope that readers will approve of this change, acknowledging the challenges posed by rising costs of paper and postage. They express gratitude to loyal readers who have supported the publication since its inception as the Australian Saucer Record, which later merged into the current PANORAMA with a broader scope.

Contents and Features

The issue includes an editorial titled "NIL DISPARADUM." The index lists several articles and topics:

• Involuntary Prophecy (Page 12)
• Book Review: "Harmonic 33" by Cathie (Page 14)
• They Believe in Saucers
• Two Scientists support UFO (Page 3)
• Strange events around Adelaide (Pages 4-8)
• South Australian Sightings
• Sightings here and There (Pages 15-16)
• NSW. Victoria. West Aust. (Pages 16-18)
• Case of the Strange Marks? (Pages 8-10)
• Further Lawn incidents (Page 10)
• Diagrams for the above (Page 11)
• Sixty Years Ago. (Page 13)
• Late News. (Pages 19-20)

U.F.O.P.I.A. Display Events

The Arndale Shopping Centre at Kilkenny is hosting another display by U.F.O.P.I.A. from March 3rd to 8th, providing an opportunity for close contact with the public. A larger display is planned for the New MARION Shopping Centre from June 23rd to 28th, featuring slide lectures and a wide array of materials. U.F.O.P.I.A. also intends to organize a public meeting in the city with a guest speaker.

Voices from Space?

A significant event is reported concerning astronaut Gordon Cooper during his MA-9 Faith 7 mission on May 15, 1963. While on his fourth pass over Hawaii, Cooper's voice was suddenly interrupted by an "unintelligible foreign language transmission" on the channel reserved for space flights. This transmission was broadcast on a VHF frequency that few HAM amateurs are equipped to handle. NASA recorded the message, which consisted of grunting and speaking in an unidentified language. The report questions whether the transmission originated from Earth, specifically Hawaii, and if it was a hoax, noting that no HAM radio operator from Hawaii was arrested for interference.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine focuses on UFO sightings and related phenomena, with a particular emphasis on events in Australia. It also touches upon space exploration and potential extraterrestrial communications. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, as evidenced by the reporting of diverse incidents and the promotion of public awareness through displays and lectures. The publication aims to maintain its standard of reporting despite financial pressures.