Space Drive - 1972 No 11

Magazine Overview

Title: SPACE DRIVE
Issue: 11
Volume/Year: 1972
Publisher: E. Harris
Country of Publication: England
Language: English
Price: 7 pence (cover price), 10p by post.

This issue of Space Drive, an international magazine devoted to space exploration and related topics, combines content with UFO Mirror for the last time, with subscribers needing to choose between the two. The editor, Edward Harris, apologizes for the state of the colored pictures due to unprofessional stencils and suggests that if color is desired, it should be done in-house. The cover features a dramatic depiction of a rocket launch, identified as possibly Apollo 8, supplied by the U.S. Information Service.

Contents and Key Articles

The Scientific Harvest of Apollo 15

The magazine highlights the significant achievements of the Apollo 15 mission, describing it as the most brilliant voyage to the moon. It features images captured by the super television camera on the Lunar Rover, showcasing areas like Hadley Rille and the Apennines. The article details the astronauts' activities, including their first walk on the moon, collecting rock samples, and investigating rocky core tubes. One rock, initially hoped to be significant for understanding the origin of life, was found not to be the expected sample. The mission brought back 170 lbs of rock samples, providing scientists with a wider variety than previous missions.

America and Russia to Exchange Data on Mars

This section reports on an agreement between the United States and the Soviet Union to exchange spacecraft data. This follows negotiations by joint working groups. America launched Mariner 9 on May 30, 1971, and Russia launched Mars 2 and 3 on May 19 and 28, respectively. A teletype link has been established between the Mariner control center in Pasadena, California, and the Soviet control center for rapid exchange of important information. Mariner 9, weighing a ton, is equipped with two TV cameras to map over 70% of Mars' surface, measure surface temperatures, composition, and the thin Martian atmosphere. The article also mentions the successful soft landing of a Mars-3 descent craft on December 2, 1971, and its subsequent transition into orbit as an artificial satellite of Mars.

Russian Information on the Planet Mars

• Space Drive reproduces headlines and details from the Soviet Information Service regarding Mars probes. Key points include:
• November 24, 1971: A stereo experiment with Mars-3, using French equipment, successfully functions aboard the station to study the sun's radio emission.
• November 29, 1971: Observations of Mars reveal violet clouds appearing on the morning and evening edges of the disc, a phenomenon best seen in violet rays.
• December 1, 1971: An artificial satellite around Mars could provide significant data about the planet without direct contact.
• December 2, 1971: Soviet scientists discuss Mars, suggesting its exploration could answer questions about the origin of life.
• December 3: An autonomous system of astro-navigation on Mars-2 is mentioned.
• December 6, 1971: PRAVDA comments on the search for life on Mars, calling it a task of tremendous significance for understanding life's development in the solar system. It also notes that proof of the absence of life could open possibilities for biological experiments in sterile conditions.
• December 6, 1971: A simulation of Mars polar caps by Ildar Zakirov yields a solid-gas-hydrate compound of water and carbon dioxide.
• December 7, 1971: Mars-3 successfully lands and enters orbit.

Search for Life on Other Planets

This article discusses speculation among American and Soviet scientists about advanced civilizations trying to send messages from outer space. A group meeting in Armenia concluded that immense technological civilizations in the Milky Way might be attempting communication. They suggest that powerful radiotelescopes could establish contact, and coordinated international efforts should be mounted to listen for messages. Astronomers Carl Sagen and Frank Drake of Cornell University reported that while there's no hard scientific evidence, a carefully structured rationale suggests civilizations exist beyond current technological expertise, likely sending benevolent messages for economic reasons.

Making Life Seem Longer

This philosophical piece explores the subjective perception of time, noting that as people age, time seems to pass more quickly. It contrasts the long temporal deserts experienced in childhood (e.g., between Labour Day and Christmas) with the rapid passage of years in adulthood. The author suggests that while one cannot become younger, forcing oneself to take more interest in life and enjoy separate moments can make life *seem* longer.

Apollo 16 Time Line

A preliminary time table for the Apollo 16 mission is provided. The astronauts, John Young, Charles Drake, and Tom Mattingley, were scheduled to spend 73 hours on the moon in March 1972. The mission included a lunar module landing in the mountainous Descartes area, three surface trips using a lunar rover, and a rendezvous with the command module. Astronaut Mattingley would retrieve film from mapping cameras in the service module, with splashdown scheduled for March 29, 1972, after a 12-day, 8-hour, 11-minute mission.

Providing Oxygen for Long Space Missions

This section details a NASA Ames Research Centre system that converts moisture from astronauts' breath and perspiration into oxygen. This system, which has completed over 2,000 hours of testing, could eliminate the need for bulky oxygen tanks on long-duration missions. The process involves breaking down water into hydrogen and oxygen using an acid electrolyte.

Skylab: Learning to Live in a Celestial Body

The article announces the upcoming launch of Skylab, the world's second manned space station, in 1972. The station, largely built from proven hardware, was scheduled to orbit at 330 miles altitude. A crew of three would join it the next day for a 28-day stay. Skylab was intended to orbit for eight months, conducting three missions focused on crew reactions, solar observation, and earth sciences. The astronauts would live in a home-like environment with systems duplicating Earth conditions, making life-support suits unnecessary. The primary experiment for the first crew was to exist for an extended period in weightlessness to determine human capabilities for space exploration.

Leukaemia? A Cure?

This speculative piece discusses an article from a booklet called 'HERE'S HEALTH' by Barbera Cartland, which reportedly detailed a genuine cure for leukaemia in one person. The story involved a woman given months to live who took large quantities of beetroot daily, leading to no trace of leukaemia being found upon subsequent medical examination. The author expresses curiosity about whether beetroot works on all such cases or if this was a rare occurrence, and seeks to locate the original book for a full story.

A Look at Last Year

• This section provides a brief retrospective of events from 1970-1971, including:
• The North Wheald Air Display on May 31, 1971, featuring a British THUNDERBIRD missile from 1957 and a strike aircraft.
• A warning of extraterrestrial invasion if contact is made too soon with an advanced race, attributed to Professor Kopal.
• The Apollo 15 mission and Lunar Rover testing.
• The start of color printing for Space-Drive.
• The death of Russian Cosmonauts Georgi Dobrovolsky, Vladislav Volkov, and Victor Patsayev.
• The successful Apollo 15 moon landing.
• President Nixon's request for increased funding for cancer cure research.
• The relocation of Mike Parry of Interplanetary News and Space-Drive.
• Anticipation for news on Mars probes from the USSR and USA in 1972.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on space exploration, particularly the Apollo missions and Mars exploration by both the US and USSR. There is a strong interest in scientific research, technological advancements, and the potential for life beyond Earth. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on current space news and scientific findings, with a speculative element regarding UFOs and extraterrestrial life, as indicated by the magazine's name and the inclusion of related articles. The editor expresses a desire for better quality in the magazine's presentation, particularly regarding color reproduction. There is also an interest in health-related topics, as seen in the article on Leukaemia. The magazine operates as an independent, non-profit hobby publication.

This document is the final issue, number 6, of the magazine "UFO MIRROR", dated January-February-March 1972. It was published quarterly by Edward Harris in England. The issue announces the cessation of "UFO MIRROR" and the upcoming launch of a new, more specialized UFO journal. It also includes content related to cancer research.

Key Articles and Content

Cancer Research Article

The issue begins with a continuation of an article on cancer research, discussing the search for drugs and methods to eradicate disseminated cancer cells in animals. The author, who has spent their life in this field, emphasizes the complexity of the cancer problem and the emotional highs and lows experienced by research scientists. While progress has been made in curing some transplanted animal cancers and improving drug control for human leukaemias and lymphomata, the author highlights the need to understand the reasons for success and failure to develop more rational and efficient approaches.

The article then delves into specific experiments using a transplantable leukaemia in laboratory mice. It describes how a single leukaemic cell can divide and proliferate to one billion cells, leading to the animal's death. The lethal number of leukaemic cells for humans is stated to be one trillion. The author suggests that a difference observed between mouse and human leukaemia might represent a major stumbling block to curing disseminated cancer.

Announcements and Journal Transition

Under the "ANNOUNCEMENTS" section, the magazine "UFO MIRROR" is declared to have ceased publication. The name "UFO Mirror" was initially chosen from an idea by Gray Barker of "SAUCER NEWS" but was deemed incorrect as a mirror reflects the reverse image. The editor, Edward Harris, announces a surprise for subscribers: "UFO MIRROR" will be transformed into a highly specialized UFO journal with a new, high-resolution name. This new journal aims to provide an objective and unprecedented avenue of research into the Unidentified Flying Object problem, seeking answers after years of stagnation. The new journal may even be "Letterpressed". Readers are invited to send for a free issue of the new journal, whose name is described as reflecting its contents and the essence of UFOLOGY.

"SPACE-DRIVE" magazine will continue in a duplicated format, reduced to 6 pages, and its price will drop. "UFO MIRROR" and "SPACE-DRIVE" will appear together for the last time in this issue and the next Christmas 1972 issue.

Information regarding overseas orders and currency exchange is also provided.

Covers of Past Issues

Page 3 displays reproductions of covers from past issues of "SPACE-DRIVE" and "UFO MIRROR" dating from November 1970 to December 1971, showcasing various themes and special editions.

UFO Mirror Information and Editorial Stance

Page 4 provides detailed information about "UFO MIRROR", including its publication process (duplicated), subscription prices for the UK and USA, and its establishment date (January 12th, 1970) by Edward Harris under the name "SPACE-DRIVE". It reiterates that this is the last issue under the "UFO MIRROR" name and that a new magazine will launch soon. Subscribers are asked to indicate their preference for either the new "UFO MIRROR" journal or "SPACE-DRIVE". The editorial address is provided as 37, The Close, Dunmow, Essex, England.

Lists of "ENGLISH ASSOCIATES", "CANADIAN ASSOCIATES", and a "SCIENTIFIC ADVISER" (Alan McDermott BSc) are included, along with a "UFO MIRROR WORLDWIDE NETWORK" listing countries like America, Canada, Cylon, Australia, England, France, Germany, and Norway.

The "INFORMATION..." section states that information is obtained from reliable sources and the new journal will contain extra information. It also includes a copyright notice and an open letter from the editor to numerous individuals and organizations, apologizing for delays in replying to mail and for not being able to send free copies due to a lack of stock.

Editorial by Edward Harris

Edward Harris writes an editorial expressing joy rather than sadness at the end of "UFO MIRROR". He mentions the hard labor involved in production and the potential for a long publication pause while arranging for a suitable letterpress printing machine and addressing the cost of photo block reproduction. He believes it's better to start a new journal on the right footing. He suggests that if the pause is long, "SPACE-DRIVE" might contain some UFO details. He wishes readers a happy new year and a nice Christmas.

Contents and Acknowledgements

The contents page lists articles such as "SKYWATCHING - A MARATHON" (over 12 pages), "INFORMATION", "SIGHTINGS", "Letters", "WORLD'S BEST UFO MAGAZINES AND POLL RESULTS", "WIRE CODE OF BEHAVIOUR ON ANOTHER PLANET", "ANOTHER UFO SIGHTED", "BIG BANG? STEADY STATE, or PULSATION", "DEFENCE OF THE FBL", "ARE UFOS FRIENDLY", and "GIRL SEES STRANGE UFO".

A lengthy list of acknowledgements is provided, thanking numerous individuals and organizations, including Brinsley Le Poer Trench, Kim Hagger, Beryl Wallace, Arthur Shuttlewood, Norman Gilbert, Derek Samson, Spalding Guardian, The Aetherius Society, Peter Fairley, Dr. G. Doel, Keith Palmer, Julie Coppendale, Mr. Alfred Harris, Jimmy Goddard, Johan Quanjer, Michael Sullivan (BBC), Tom Jordan, Novosti Information Service, and United States Information Service.

Skywatching Article

The "Skywatching" article details the author's experiences with all-night UFO watches, starting around 1969, often organized by CONTACT UK and the British Unidentified Flying Object Association (BUFORA). It references a 1967 watch at Warminster, Wiltshire, organized by Mr. Keith Palmer of the International Sky Scouts. The article mentions the "Barney Hill space kidnap case" and David Prockter's branding of it as a hoax due to hypnotism. It recounts the Warminster skywatch on May 6th, 1967, involving members like E. Harris, T. Jordan, R. Harris, and John Cowley, with about 70-100 participants. The author also shares a personal sighting from Leyton, London, in 1965, which was later explained as a potential meteorite.

The article discusses the belief that UFOs fly along invisible magnetic paths called LEYS. It mentions Arthur Shuttlewood, a feature writer for the "WARMINSTER JOURNAL", who claimed to have found "PROOF" of UFOs, including photos and alleged phone calls from space people. These photos were shown on the "24 HOURS" programme. The army camp in Warminster reportedly denied involvement in a high-pitched noise affecting sheep and cattle, which was speculated to be related to UFO activity. The article concludes this section by questioning if "we are all going MAD!?" and notes that things have quietened down in Warminster.

BBC Interview with Keith Palmer

A BBC spokesman interviews Keith Palmer about the chances of seeing a UFO locally, to which he replies "fifty fifty". He notes a pattern of sightings in the north London area, suggesting they follow LEY lines and might appear around towns. Palmer believes UFOs are extraterrestrial, possibly from Venus, Mars, or other star systems. He estimates having seen about a dozen UFOs since 1954, describing them as satellite-like objects moving at terrific speeds, zig-zagging and darting.

News Snips

News snips report that "UFO NEWS MAGAZINE" edited by D. Prockter has folded up. Dr. Stranges has made a film based on his book "Stranger at the Pentagon". The Australian group TUFOB seems to have folded up. "Logos", a new seance development club for extraterrestrial communication, has issued a bulletin. "UFO Mirror" is to close and reappear as a special type of journal.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, skywatching events, and the ongoing investigation into Unidentified Flying Objects. There is a strong emphasis on the need for scientific evidence and analysis, as highlighted by Alan McDermott's quote. The magazine also touches upon the transition and evolution of UFO publications, with "UFO MIRROR" making way for a new, more specialized journal. The editorial stance, particularly from Edward Harris, is one of optimism and excitement for the future of UFO research and publication, despite the closure of the current magazine. There's a clear desire to move beyond speculation towards tangible evidence.

This issue of 'Contact' magazine, dated 1972, delves into the world of UFO sightings and skywatching activities, primarily focusing on events from 1971 and earlier years. The publication features interviews, reports from skywatch events, and reader contributions, aiming to explore the phenomenon of unidentified flying objects.

Skywatch Events and Reports

The magazine extensively covers several skywatch events. A significant focus is placed on the 1971 National Skywatch, which involved numerous groups and individuals across Britain. Reports from these events, such as the one in Enfield, often indicate a lack of concrete sightings, with participants observing atmospheric phenomena like occasional thunderstorms or single orange lights. The Dunmow skywatch in Essex also had limited results, with a bright light near Sheffield being a notable, though unexplained, observation. The issue also mentions a large-scale 'Great UFO Hunt' near Banbury in November 1971, which was hampered by continuous rain and low visibility, resulting in no sightings.

Interviews and Expert Opinions

Interviews with key figures in ufology provide insights into the phenomenon. Keith Palmer, a skywatch organiser, discusses the unpredictability of sightings and the general interest in the subject. Dr. Doel, a radiologist and member of the ISS movement, expresses the belief that UFOs might be manned by intelligent entities, possibly from other races existing in the universe. He recounts an authenticated sighting in Papua where occupants of a disk-shaped craft waved to observers. Peter Fairley, a science reporter, raises concerns about distinguishing fact from imagination in UFO reports. He questions the earthly origin of red lights on UFOs, suggesting blue lights would be more logical for extraterrestrial craft. Fairley also discusses the vast number of reported sightings and the ongoing challenge of explaining them, leaning towards earthly phenomena as the cause for many.

Organizations and Movements

The magazine highlights the activities of various UFO research organizations. The International Sky Scouts evolved into 'Contact,' which is described as the biggest movement in the world with a substantial overseas membership. Other groups mentioned include COS-MOS, BUFORA, SIRIUS, and the British Unidentified Flying Object Research Association. The Aetherius Society is also noted for its models of flying saucers.

Specific Sightings and Cases

Several specific incidents are detailed. The Papua sighting involving a disk-shaped craft and waving occupants is presented as a significant authenticated instance. A report from Spalding describes three boys who claimed to have seen and photographed a 'thing' in the sky. Philip Colins reported a red object with a vapour trail. The magazine also touches upon a sighting in New Guinea where people were seen inside a UFO.

Media and Public Perception

The issue touches upon media coverage and public interest in UFOs. It notes that while local press might publish UFO reports, international press coverage has decreased. A TV debate on UFOs, featuring Brinsley Le Poer Trench and Peter Fairley, is mentioned, though the transcript is incomplete. The magazine also discusses the possibility of telepathic communication from UFOs, as described in a letter from Derek Samson of NICAP GB.

Reader Contributions and Letters

Letters from readers offer diverse perspectives. One reader, Mr. Oliver (BIMBO) Barker, discusses the concept of reciprocal work for the community. Monka Swans from Alberta, Canada, expresses interest in UFOs and the space-people. Janet Busell reports a high number of UFO sightings in England over a nine-week period, suggesting increased public awareness. Derek Samson shares his experience of receiving telepathic messages and his belief in a 'NICAP LIGHT CENTRE'. Edward Harris, the editor, responds with a mix of skepticism and openness, emphasizing the importance of not closing one's mind to possibilities while maintaining a critical approach.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the ongoing efforts to track and understand UFO sightings through organized skywatches, the challenges of verifying reports, and the diverse theories surrounding the origin and nature of these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to remain curious and analytical, while also warning against unsubstantiated claims and 'hocus pocus' affairs. The magazine aims to facilitate serious research into UFOs and encourages contributions from its readership.

This issue of 'WORLD'S BEST UFO MAGS' (dated 10 January 1972) focuses on a poll to determine the top-rated UFO magazines, alongside reports of sightings and discussions on UFO-related phenomena. The magazine appears to be a compilation or continuation of previous content, with references to 'Space-Drive' and 'UFO MIRROR'.

International UFO Magazine Poll

The lead article details an ongoing poll to identify the best UFO magazine, noting the lack of previous international polls. The publishers distributed 1,000 leaflets and 500 to Canadian editors, and sent the remainder to various UFOzine editors in Britain and elsewhere. They express disappointment that some editors did not wish to participate. The results presented are acknowledged as potentially biased. The poll is set to close by September 1972, with winners receiving a free issue or advertising space. The current top votes as of January 10, 1972, are listed:

1. SAUCERS SPACE & SCIENCE - 19 votes
2. FLYING SAUCER REVIEW - 10 votes
3. SPACELINK & FLYING SAUCERS - 3 votes
4. CANADIAN UFO REPORT - 2 votes
5. PERCEPTION - 1 vote

SYNTONIC UFO MIRROR-SPACE-DRIVE are mentioned as a collective entry.

Following this poll, a new poll based on general comments will be published. In January 1973, poll papers will be issued to any UFOzine editor worldwide. A voting form is included for readers to submit their choices for the 'WORLD'S TOP UFO magazine'.

What Code of Behaviour On Another Planet?

This section, adapted from a letter by Norman Gilbert, discusses the need for a standard of behavior for individuals visiting or landing on inhabited planets. Gilbert emphasizes that a country's reputation depends on the behavior of its individuals, and a set standard could prevent interplanetary war. He invites readers to share their views on this topic.

Mysterious Radio and Television Interference

This report, credited to 'Lumieres Dans La Nuit' (July 1969) and translated by Dagmar Sarkar, details an incident in France on July 26, 1967. During the showing of the film 'Malican pere et fils' on television, the picture faded and was replaced by clear, authoritative voices speaking in a foreign, jerky, metallic, and Asiatic-sounding language for 6 to 8 seconds. The sound then returned to normal, and the film continued.

A separate report, from the French paper 'Parisien' (March 5, 1969), discusses 'Mysterious radio emissions' affecting the Apollo 9 astronauts. During their sleep, four times they were disturbed by emissions sounding like Chinese. Experts at the Houston center were startled, and one astronaut, Scott, described it as 'very strange'. The report notes that this radio frequency is reserved for the space program.

Another UFO Sighted

Credited to 'Newsman Herald' (November 1, 1971), this article features student John Leather, who claims to have seen two unidentified flying objects (UFOs) over Chelmsford. He described two bright objects, one above the other, which moved away and followed each other. He later saw another UFO which had red bits around it and appeared to break up into a small spot. Leather is convinced it was not an aircraft or shooting star, and the possibility of planes refueling in mid-air is questioned.

Big Bang? Steady State-Or Pulsation.

This is a continuation of an article by Arthur Shuttlewood, exploring the nature of consciousness and its relation to the universe. Shuttlewood posits that consciousness requires a physical body, exists at a universal level, and that technological advancements are needed for interstellar travel. He suggests that superior intelligences might be motivated by similar needs as humans, leading to potential friendliness or hostility. He also touches on the idea of convergent evolution towards consciousness across planets.

Shuttlewood questions the human assumption of being the most evolved creatures, suggesting that animals perceive the world from their own limited perspective. He implies that humans might be in a similar position regarding higher forces, and that the most evolved humans are in touch with these forces. The editor interjects, questioning if humans are merely 'pets' or 'playthings' of higher beings and demanding freedom of choice. The editor also critiques the 'nuts and bolts hypothesis' for failing to acknowledge human limitations and suggests humility in the face of existing forces. The article hints at an unexplored aspect of the UFO scene.

Defence Of The F.B.I.

Written by Beryl Wallace, this article defends the FBI against accusations by some UFO researchers that the agency is responsible for harassing them or causing 'Men In Black' visits. Wallace argues that the FBI's role is to protect citizens, not harass them. While acknowledging the FBI uses phone tapping devices, she states this is for catching dangerous criminals or traitors, and the evidence is not usable in court. She asserts that the FBI would not use such devices on ordinary citizens investigating UFOs due to the resources required. Wallace also addresses claims of researchers being kidnapped and brainwashed, stating that the use of drugs is a federal offense, and the FBI would pursue those who administer drugs rather than the victims. Kidnapping is also described as a federal offense that the FBI despises. The article concludes by stating the FBI are dedicated to helping people protect their right to investigate.

Are UFOs Friendly???

This article, written by the editor in 1970, explores the question of UFO friendliness. The editor notes that UFOs have visited Earth for centuries in various forms but have never initiated open warfare. Reasons suggested include a lack of knowledge on how to fire ballistic missiles, or perhaps a limited technology. Another possibility is that they are friendly and wish to mingle and learn about humans. The editor uses the example of the 'Snippy the horse' case (where a horse's head was found severed) to illustrate how UFOs might examine humans using advanced science. The article questions what could have been learned from kidnapped persons and suggests that UFOs might have learned languages and customs this way. The editor wonders if the Hydrogen Bomb acts as a deterrent and speculates that UFOs might have intended to 'work from the inside' to cause trouble and civil wars to take over the world. The article concludes by suggesting that the only way to achieve this would be to 'pretend friendliness' and expresses a personal difficulty in understanding the idea of hostile UFOs, despite reading a book on the subject. The editor hopes UFOs are friendly and urges readers to find out before it is 'TOO LATE'. This article was written when the subject of UFOs was new to the editor.

Girl Sees Strange UFO

This section reports on a UFO sighting by young Kim Hagger of Dane Acres, Bishop's Stortford, on April 17, 1971, at 9 pm. The object was seen in cloudy conditions, appearing as a light brighter than the brightest star, fuzzy, and seeming to explode after changing brightness and flashing. It disappeared behind trees. Kim reported the speed of the object was around 10 MPH, and she was approximately 500 yards away. There were four other witnesses: Helen Gatland, Graham Stevens, Gary Hagger, and Kevin Johns. Kim reported the sighting to Mrs. Sargent, stating it was definitely not an aircraft. The report is followed by a notice regarding space limitations for articles in the current issue, with a promise that all received articles will be published in the new journal.

Extra: Skywatching Saga

This section provides belated photos related to the 'Skywatching saga', specifically photos from Warminster and Enfield in 1967, to accompany an article on Skywatching. Photos include Wiltshire overlooking Stonchen, Rita Harris en route to Warminster, and a scene on Oddib Hill, Warminster, with Ken Rogers (Secretary ISS, 1967) and friends. The text notes that Ken Rogers now works for a London National Newspaper and was keen on UFOs.

Another photo is an enlargement of Ken. The section mentions that more photos of the Skywatches exist but will be reproduced in the new journal due to lack of space. A correction is made: 'Page 24: Skeptical' should read 'Sceptical'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO sightings, potential extraterrestrial intelligence, and the public's perception of these phenomena. There's a strong emphasis on encouraging reader participation through polls and letters. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various viewpoints, including skepticism towards government agencies like the FBI being inherently hostile to UFO research, and questioning the nature and intentions of UFOs (friendly vs. hostile). The magazine also delves into theoretical aspects, such as the nature of consciousness and evolution in relation to potential extraterrestrial life. The editor's personal journey of understanding the UFO phenomenon is also highlighted, particularly in the 'Are UFOs Friendly???' article.