PARIS MATCH

Magazine Overview

This issue of Paris Match, dated January 1, 1953, features a prominent cover story on "The Empress of Iran" and includes several articles on the phenomenon of "flying saucers" (soucoupes volantes).

Two Americans Out of Three Believe the Pentagon is Hiding the Truth About Flying Saucers

This article delves into the ongoing mystery of flying saucers, noting that despite an official commission's report in December 1949 aiming to close the case, sightings have persisted and even increased. The commission, which investigated 375 appearances, found explanations for most but left 34 cases unexplained. The term 'flying saucers' was popularized by aviator Kenneth Arnold in June 1947. The article highlights the role of Major Donald E. Keyhoe, a retired Marine, who claims access to Pentagon information and believes flying saucers are extraterrestrial craft observing Earth. Keyhoe's book, 'Flying Saucers From Outer Space,' is mentioned.

The article details several compelling cases, including a B-29 bomber detecting aerial objects moving at incredible speeds (up to 9,000 miles per hour). It emphasizes the credibility of many witnesses, including scientists and military personnel. The phenomenon is noted to have become international, observed in various countries.

The Flying Saucers Are Especially Interested in Nuclear Experiments

This section discusses the continued and increasing activity of flying saucers after the 1949 commission's report. It notes their presence over nuclear experiment sites in South Africa and Belgian Congo, suggesting an interest in nuclear physics. The article also mentions that the Soviet Union remains indifferent, with Vishinsky attributing sightings in America to optical illusions from Scottish whisky.

Historical Sightings and Theories

The article traces the history of aerial phenomena sightings back to the 18th century, with numerous accounts of 'fireballs,' 'luminous clouds,' and 'luminous discs' observed across the globe. It suggests that Earth has been observed by inhabitants of another world for a long time.

Scientific Explanations: Menzel vs. Keyhoe

Two opposing viewpoints are presented: Dr. Donald H. Menzel, an astrophysicist from Harvard, proposes that flying saucers are natural optical illusions caused by atmospheric conditions (temperature inversions) and reflections, akin to mirages. He suggests that even the Mantell case, where a pilot died pursuing a UFO, might be explained by a 'sundog' phenomenon. In contrast, Major Keyhoe maintains the extraterrestrial origin theory, even suggesting that Martians might be preparing to emigrate to Earth.

Radar vs. Human Eye

The article notes that radar, like the human eye, can be deceived by atmospheric conditions, leading to misinterpretations. Menzel's experiments in creating synthetic flying saucer phenomena are mentioned.

The Cable from Cartier on Flying Saucers

This section, seemingly a brief mention or a separate item, refers to 'the cable from Cartier on flying saucers,' suggesting a connection to the famous jewelry company, though the details are not elaborated upon in the provided text.

A 18-Year-Old Photographed Them

This part highlights specific historical incidents, including the 1947 sighting by Kenneth Arnold, Captain Mantell's fatal pursuit in 1948, pilot Gorman's encounter, and the mass sightings over Indianapolis and Washington D.C. in 1952. It also mentions a pilot observing formations at high speed and a boy in Lubbock, Texas, photographing UFOs.

The Martians Are About to Emigrate From Their Desiccated Planet

Major Keyhoe warns that Martians may be preparing for a mass emigration to Earth, but he hopes they will arrive with conciliatory intentions. He urges caution against fear and violence to avoid mistaking friendly visitors for enemies.

The Debate is Narrowed

The article states that the debate over flying saucers has narrowed down to two main hypotheses: secret American or Russian technology, or natural phenomena and visitors from another planet. It dismisses the possibility of Soviet technology being advanced enough for such craft.

Since Two Years, a Martian is Learning English in Montana

This section details claims from various sources about extraterrestrial beings and their craft being recovered by American authorities. Joseph Roher is cited as claiming seven flying saucers have fallen into American hands, with three landing in Montana. One survivor, a three-foot-tall creature, is reportedly being taught English in secret.

The First Venusian Resembled a Pre-Raphaelite

George Adamski recounts his encounter with a Venusian in November 1952. He describes the Venusian as a beautiful, human-like being who communicated telepathically. Adamski was shown a photograph of a flying saucer, described as resembling a lampshade.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent mystery of flying saucers, the public's belief that governments are concealing information, and the contrasting scientific explanations versus extraterrestrial theories. The magazine presents both sides of the debate, highlighting eyewitness accounts, official investigations, and the historical context of such phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting the ongoing debate and the public's fascination with the topic, without definitively endorsing one theory over another, though it leans towards exploring the 'otherworldly' possibilities.