Saucers, Space & Science - No 36

Magazine Overview

Title: SAUCERS, SPACE & SCIENCE
Issue: No. 36
Volume: FALL
Date: 1964
Publisher: SS&S
Country: Canada
Language: English

This issue of "Saucers, Space & Science" (SS&S) from Fall 1964, edited by Gene Duplantier and with Gray Barker as Associate Editor, addresses correspondence to Gene Duplantier in Willowdale, Ontario, Canada, and Gray Barker in Clarksburg, West Virginia, USA. The magazine's content is generally available for use by other saucerzines with proper credit.

Key Articles and Features

South American Contact & Space Movies

The cover prominently features "SOUTH AMERICAN CONTACT" and "SPACE MOVIES." A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to an excerpt from the book "HOMECOMING OF THE MARTIANS" by Dr. R.E. Dickhoff. This excerpt details a significant event on October 12, 1963, near Monte Maiz, Cordoba, Argentina. Eugenio Douglas, a 47-year-old truck driver, was driving through a heavy rainstorm when a bright white light blinded him. He experienced intense heat, lost control of his truck, and subsequently encountered a strange, round, metallic object approximately 10 meters high. The object emitted a light from one side, and Douglas described the beings that emerged as enormous, human-like figures with strange, brilliant clothing and helmets with antennae. He felt a 'short-circuiting' effect from red lights emitted by the object. The incident was investigated by police, and footprints were reportedly found.

Letters to the Editor

Rev. Guy J. Cyr, S.M. from Lawrence, Mass., responds to questions about the attitude of Catholic and Protestant Churches towards UFOs, stating that the Church has not officially opined on the subject, leaving it to scientists. He notes that the nature and origin of 'ufonites' are speculative and religious in nature.

Bill Rawlinson from San Antonio, Texas, recounts an experience where he heard a startling boom followed by a rumbling sound, which he describes as not a sonic boom but possibly an atomic explosion in orbit. He observed a fireball that moved and then extinguished like a candle.

Book Reviews and Promotions

Several books and publications are promoted. "Homecoming of the Martians" by Dr. R.E. Dickhoff is available for $3.50. The magazine also promotes "UFO MAGAZINE," described as a printed, informative publication with photos and maps, available for $1.00 per year. Back issues of SS&S are also available for purchase.

Book Review: Thinking and Destiny

A review of Harold W. Percival's book "Thinking and Destiny" praises it as a unique and logical system of the Universe, explaining the human being's role in its regulation and influence. The book covers topics such as states of matter, consciousness, and destiny, with over 1,000 pages of content. It is priced at $7.50.

Object in Sky is Mystery

A brief report from Plymouth, England, mentions an RAF spokesman unable to explain a mysterious cylindrical object seen in the sky that appeared to break in two.

Flying Saucer, In Liquid Space

This section describes a turtle-shaped vehicle undergoing tank tests at Lockheed Missiles and Space Company for ocean exploration, highlighting its potential uses and design.

Fireball in Sky - Blast Mystery

This article details an event on Wednesday morning where residents of San Antonio, Texas, were awakened by a fiery aerial blast. Witnesses described a sound similar to sonic booms, but the origin was unknown. Mrs. Fred Barnhorst saw a fireball moving overhead that was 'snuffed out like a candle' shortly before the explosion was heard. Investigations by state patrol and the sheriff's department found no evidence of the blast's origin.

Saucer Seen During Eclipse

Reports from Yung Hung-hai of Hualien, Formosa, and J.R. Howard, a British Overseas Airways Corp. pilot, describe sightings of flying saucers during solar eclipses in 1952 and 1955, respectively.

Martian 'Visit' Stirs Tioga

This report details a dairy farmer, Gary T. Wilcox, in Newark Valley, Tioga County, New York, who claimed to have spoken with two Martians who landed in a spacecraft on his farm. The beings were described as four feet tall, wearing seamless clothing and headdresses. They expressed interest in organic material and fertilizers, explaining they grew food in the atmosphere and visited Earth every two years. The incident was reported to the Tioga County Sheriff's Dept., the FBI, and the Air Force.

Space Spots!

This section contains various short news items and observations related to UFOs and space. It mentions the failure of 12 Atlas ICBMs, a scientist's suggestion for a sun-powered lunar colony, Russia's failed attempts to send space vehicles to the moon, a cordless transmitter for space communications, a proposed 24-man space station by 1969, test models of communication satellites resembling flying saucers, a 'moon clock' for lunar explorers, and the discovery of meteorite-produced water on the moon. It also touches on NASA's search for life on Mars, the origin of meteorites, Jupiter's slowing rotation, and potential Martian life. The section notes that the Navy plans to launch a rocket to hunt for 'wreckage' of a star that exploded in 1054 A.D. and discusses the possibility of 'space bugs' being brought back by Cosmonauts. It also mentions a ruby-red color in lunar craters caused by gases and the Russian concentration on orbiting a space platform. Dr. Ladd of NASA is quoted as having evidence of life on Mars.

NICAP Report Expanded

The NICAP report titled "PO EVIDENCE" has been expanded to 192 pages and is available to members for $5.00.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO sightings, alleged alien encounters, and speculative theories about extraterrestrial life and technology. There is a strong emphasis on eyewitness accounts, often presented with detailed descriptions of objects and beings. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry into these phenomena, presenting various reports and theories without necessarily endorsing them as fact, but rather as subjects for investigation and discussion within the UFO community. The inclusion of book reviews and promotions for related publications reinforces this focus. The magazine also touches upon the intersection of UFO phenomena with religious beliefs and ancient history, suggesting a broader interpretation of these events.

This issue of SS&S, dated July 1964, offers a comprehensive look at UFO sightings, related phenomena, and public opinion on extraterrestrial life. The magazine features a mix of news reports, eyewitness accounts, and editorial commentary, reflecting the ongoing fascination with the unexplained.

Air Force Investigations and Findings

The lead article, "NO THREATS FOUND IN FLYING OBJECTS," reports on the U.S. Air Force's "Project Bluebook," which investigated over 8,000 UFO sightings between 1947 and 1963. While 7.7 percent of these cases remained unidentified, the Air Force concluded that there was no evidence of a threat to U.S. security or the presence of alien vehicles. The report noted that the majority of unidentified cases occurred in the earlier years of the project, before analysis techniques were refined. Examples of unidentified sightings included objects described as an "ear of corn and a banana," "four pink wheels," and an object that exploded into a ball of fire.

Eyewitness Accounts and Local Reports

Several articles detail specific sightings from various locations:

• Binghamton, N.Y.: A man named Mr. Wilcox reported an encounter with beings who requested fertilizer. Their spacecraft took off with a noise like an automobile idling, disappearing within seconds.
• Arizona: A letter from Arizona described an incident near Deming and Lordsburg where witnesses saw a flashing light that moved erratically, accompanied by a whirring sound. The object was described as "blinding lights" that "barely missed the top of our car."
• Marion, Ind.: Police received calls about "sky lights." Witnesses described "two yellow lights" moving north and "steady white lights" travelling at jet plane speed. Another report mentioned a single "orange" light.
• Tipton and Howard Counties, Ind.: A 14-year-old boy, John Coon, observed a "perfect sphere" that appeared "green with a yellow border." He described it as moving slowly and looking like a "round and egg-shaped" object.
• Washington, D.C.: Residents reported UFOs, including a "very brilliant star with reddish overtones" that performed sharp turns, zig-zagged, and moved erratically for about 30 minutes. Two daylight sightings described "bright silvery objects with a 'greenish-blue halo'" flying at jet height. Another sighting involved a "silvery object with a three ball landing gear" estimated at 12,000 feet.
• Rockway, Ontario: Residents reported a low-flying UFO for four consecutive evenings. Descriptions included a "light, about the size of a car headlight," and a large UFO "like a dishpan held at arm's length" with red, white, and green rotating lights.
• Saskatchewan: A "huge, shadowy monster" was reported in the Sister Lakes area, described as nine-feet tall, with a human face, weighing 500 pounds, and black, shaggy, and leathery-faced.
• Albuquerque, N.M.: A 10-year-old girl, Sharon Stull, reported seeing a "bright 'weird-looking thing bobbing around in the sky" that bounced like a yo-yo and then went straight up. Her doctor noted she had watched something and had been burned.
• South Africa: A hunt was underway for the "Vaaldam monster," a huge reptile with staring eyes.
• Jersey Sky: A "sparking light" described as "brighter than the brightest star in the sky" was seen, which revolved clockwise and moved in a tremendous circle.
• Rockway, Ontario: Residents reported a low-flying UFO for four consecutive evenings. Descriptions included a "light, about the size of a car headlight," and a large UFO "like a dishpan held at arm's length" with red, white, and green rotating lights.
• Winnipeg, Man.: A "very bright flame or light, round in front and slanted to the back" was seen falling earthward.
• South Lawrence: Three schoolboys observed a "very mysterious aircraft" with no wings, making no sound, and travelling at high speed.
• London, England: A flaming object trailing green flames was described as a brilliant meteor, with some observers seeing two such meteors.

Explanations and Skepticism

While many reports are presented, some articles offer explanations. Planetarium director Ian MacLennan attributes "blue-green lights" to the planets Venus and Jupiter, with atmospheric turbulence creating illusions. The Royal Air Force minister Hugh Fraser stated that his department found no evidence of "flying saucers" and that 90% of sightings had rational explanations.

Public Opinion on Extraterrestrial Life

The "OUR MAN ON THE STREET" feature interviews several individuals about the possibility of discovering intelligent life on other planets through future space missions. Most interviewees expressed belief in the existence of extraterrestrial life, citing the vastness of the universe and the concept of a "Great Plan."

Other Phenomena and Reports

• Fiery Meteor: A meteor streaking across southern B.C. was reported to have caused falling stars and burning planes, with reports of loud explosions and geysers of water.
• Mystery Blasts: Mysterious explosions shook the Washington Beach area, with no official explanation provided.
• Loch Ness Monster: Father Andrew McKillop of a Benedictine abbey believes there is likely "something out there" at Loch Ness, though he has not seen the monster himself.
• Soviet Hypothesis: Two Soviet science writers proposed a hypothesis that light signals were received from a planet in the 61st star of the constellation Cygnus on three occasions within the last century, interpreted as "invitations to talk."

Editorial and Contributions

The editorial section highlights a book review of "THINKING & DESTINY," praising its "wisdom of the ages." It also clarifies a potential confusion regarding an advertisement for Timothy Beckley's zine, assuring readers that SS&S is in good shape and regular issues are scheduled. The upcoming "1965 YEARBOOK" is announced, promising the best content from the first 10 issues.

The issue also includes a poem titled "THE TEROS AND THE DEROS" by Rocco Tangredi, which describes subterranean beings who require human flesh. An obituary notes the death of Frank Scully, author of "Behind the Flying Saucers."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, the investigation of unexplained aerial phenomena, and the public's perception of extraterrestrial life. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting a wide range of reports and theories while also acknowledging official skepticism and providing rational explanations where possible. The magazine aims to keep readers informed about the latest developments in the UFO field and related mysteries.

Title: THE OBJECTIVE JOURNAL OF UFO

Date: 22 June, 1964

Editor and Publisher: John C. Ferguson

Publisher Address: 939 Juanita Terrace, Prescott, Arizona 86301

Document Type: Magazine Issue

Editorial Introduction and Publication Goals

John C. Ferguson, Editor and Publisher of the newly launched "The Objective Journal of UFO," addresses potential subscribers in a letter dated June 22, 1964. He introduces the periodical as a novel concept in the saucer field, emphasizing the need for reader support to establish and sustain it. The core objective of the journal is to serve as a historical reference for UFO phenomena globally. While current reports will largely be left to other publications, "The Objective Journal of UFO" plans to feature articles on major sightings, significant events, and well-known investigators. The ultimate aim is to create a standard reference where historical facts about the saucer phenomena can be readily found.

Publication Format and Content Strategy

The journal will be published in a periodical format, with the intention of becoming a comprehensive reference over time. After approximately six issues, it is expected to be a valuable resource. Each subsequent issue will build upon the previous ones, contributing to what Ferguson describes as an "encyclopaedia" of saucer phenomena. This encyclopaedia will encompass every theory, major event, and the ideas and history of prominent researchers. To ensure comprehensive access, the entire contents will be cross-indexed every three issues, with each index superseding previous ones and referencing all prior issues.

Editorial Policy and Objectivity

Ferguson clarifies the publication's policy on objectivity. His personal opinions will be restricted to editorials and articles he personally writes. The term "Objective" signifies that the rest of the magazine's content will maintain an objective outlook. The journal intends to print both pro and con perspectives on controversial issues, though he notes that history, being factual, is generally not disputable. "Wild" theories will be given equal consideration in historical accounts.

Call for Information and Submissions

Ferguson appeals to all subscribers and interested individuals for their assistance in gathering information. He requests readers to keep him informed of any UFO-related happenings in their areas and to send in clippings, both current and historical. For those unwilling to part with original materials, the journal will cover the cost of Thermo-Fax copies. This information is deemed crucial for ensuring the analyses of UFO history are not shallow. Readers with something to say are encouraged to submit manuscripts, which will be kept regardless of whether they are printed, unless a return is requested. Submissions should be concise and focused on the subject of saucers, and all received manuscripts will be acknowledged.

Advertising Policy

The journal will accept classified advertisements at a rate of five cents per word. Ordinary advertising may also be accepted in the future. All advertisements will be provided on separate, unbound sheets with each issue to avoid cluttering the magazine with potentially outdated material.

Publication Exchange and Mailing List

Ferguson extends an invitation to all saucer groups and publications, both domestic and international, to exchange publications with "The Objective Journal of UFO." He urges interested parties to write to arrange this exchange. For groups without publications, he suggests arranging an exchange of the Journal with any saucer literature they might publish. Furthermore, the journal is compiling a comprehensive, up-to-date list of all saucer groups and publications worldwide. Groups and publications that submit their name, current address, and relevant information will be included in this list, which will be mimeographed and sold at a nominal cost to cover expenses. Those included will receive a free copy of the list, and an up-to-date supplement will be issued periodically.

First Issue Contents and Future Plans

The first issue is scheduled for release in early to mid-July and will be a mimeographed bi-monthly publication. The subscription price is set at $2.00 for six issues, with single issues available for thirty-five cents. The first issue's content will include, among other items, the initial part of a three-part series reproducing the 1963 report of Project Blue Book. It will also feature a tentative collection detailing recent sightings in New Mexico. An editorial statement of the publisher's own opinions will be included, adhering to the stated policy of confining personal views to editorials and self-authored articles. An article by James Moseley, offering his thoughts on saucers and a sketch of his activities in the field, is also planned for an early issue.

Subscription Appeal

Ferguson concludes by encouraging readers to subscribe immediately if they find the publication's concept appealing, expressing confidence that they will be pleased with their decision.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme is the historical documentation and objective analysis of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance is one of impartiality, aiming to present a balanced view of evidence and theories, while also offering the publisher's own considered opinions in dedicated sections. The journal positions itself as a serious, reference-oriented publication for the UFO research community.