SPACE - No 43 - 1960 07

Magazine Overview

This issue of S.P.A.C.E. (Saucer Phenomena and Celestial Enigma), dated July 1960, is published monthly from Coral Gables, Florida, by Norbert F. Gariety. The cover prominently features the word 'SPACE' and highlights the Air Force's stance on the lack of physical evidence for UFOs, posing the question of what constitutes proof.

Extraterrestrial Contact and Space Exploration

The lead article discusses the gradual revelation of extraterrestrial presence, citing a report by radio astronomer Ronald N. Bracewell of Stanford University. Bracewell theorizes that advanced extraterrestrial communities might be sending probes to investigate stars, including our solar system, and listening for radio signals. He suggests these probes might echo transmissions with a time delay, referencing a phenomenon observed by C. Stormer. Bracewell also speculates that these civilizations might be motivated to contact Earth before potential self-destruction via nuclear fusion.

The magazine contrasts this scientific speculation with the claims of George Adamski, noting the Air Force's silence on his assertions. It suggests this silence could be indicative of the Air Force potentially considering his claims true but unwilling to admit it publicly.

Dr. Edward Teller, inventor of the H-bomb, is quoted discussing the dangers of space travel. He posits that a space traveler might age significantly more than those on Earth, potentially leading to a disorienting return. He also touches upon the possibility of recognizing alien life and the vastness of the universe, suggesting that Earth might be a mere 'suburban' outpost. Teller also discusses the theoretical use of antimatter for propulsion, noting the extreme reactions it could cause.

Unexplained Phenomena and Sightings

The issue reports on several unexplained phenomena:

• Loch Ness Monster: A movie showing a blurred object in Loch Ness was screened on British Television. Aeronautical engineer Timothy Dinsdale photographed the object, describing it as resembling a submarine's conning tower. The Queen reportedly inquired about what would be done if the monster were ever caught.
• Toccoa Blasts: Loud blasts and reports of mystery objects falling from planes caused concern in Toccoa, Georgia. An Air Force spokesman denied any jets were in the area capable of breaking the sound barrier.
• New Island: Moscow radio reported the emergence of a new island in the Caspian Sea, formed by a mud volcano eruption.
• Strange Lights: Two strange lights were observed over Painesville, Ohio, by multiple witnesses, including a private pilot and sheriff's deputies. The lights changed colors and moved erratically.
• Newtown Sighting: Approximately 200 residents in Newtown, Ohio, sighted a bright object with colored lights extending from it.
• Antarctic Discovery: Soviet polar scientists identified a large depression in Antarctica, named the International Geophysical Year Valley, which may be the world's largest glacier.

Predictions and Future Outlook

Predictions for the future are a recurring theme. The National Enquirer features a prophecy by Criswell about a 'White Death' and subsequent floods. Another publication, MARK-AGE, offers predictions including contact with extraterrestrials, advancements in food technology, and political changes in various countries. A Congressional Committee is pushing for a manned moon landing by 1970.

Religious and Scientific Perspectives

Rev. Dr. Robert J. McCracken of Riverside Church discussed 'God and Outer Space,' suggesting that if outer space is populated by civilized humans, a belief akin to Christianity must exist. He urged Christians to expand their understanding of God as the creator of countless galaxies and worlds.

Dr. Harlow Shapley, an astronomer, expressed skepticism about other planets actively seeking contact with Earth, though he agreed that extraterrestrial organisms likely exist.

Other Noteworthy Items

• Food Additives vs. Fallout: Dr. Edward Teller stated that the danger from chemical additives in food supply is greater than from atomic fallout.
• Chilean Earthquake: An earthquake in Chile produced 'free vibrations' that caused the entire planet to quiver like a guitar string for several days.
• S.P.A.C.E. Radio Program: The editor, Norbert F. Gariety, hosts a radio program called 'SPACE STATION' on WMIE, Miami.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of unexplained phenomena, space exploration, and speculative theories about extraterrestrial life. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded and inquisitive, presenting various claims and scientific hypotheses without definitive judgment, often encouraging readers to consider new possibilities. There's a recurring theme of challenging conventional thinking and embracing the 'SPACE AGE' with a broader perspective, particularly concerning religious and philosophical implications. The editor's notes often add commentary, encouraging further thought and questioning established norms.