Spacelink 1964 vol 1 no 3

Magazine Overview

Title: SPACE LINK
Issue: Volume 1, Number 3
Date: May/June 1964
Publisher: Isle of Wight Unidentified Flying Object Investigation Society (IWUFOIS)
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Editorial

The editorial, penned by F.W. Smith, Editor, begins by referencing a 'Daily Express' quote about 'flying saucer time again,' questioning if Martians are arriving for the World's Fair. It notes the U.S. Air Force's dismissive stance, citing investigations that found no evidence of alien interplanetary vehicles, yet they remain 'interested in reports.' The editorial contrasts this official attitude with the 'cranky' groups insisting UFOs are real, labeling them 'fringe' activity. However, it points to a potential shift, referencing an interview with the Astronomer Royal for Scotland who suggested that while life in other galaxies is distant, life in our Solar System might include humans, and these beings might even be visiting us. This is contrasted with a previous dismissive view of space travel. The editorial asserts the journal's intent to seek truth amidst conflicting reports and ridicule, acknowledging the limitations of mass media. It pledges that 'Spacelink' will continue to publish news and viewpoints from both believers and skeptics, and humor will play a part, seen as integral to intelligent life. The editor invites comments and contributions.

Articles and Features

No Mans Land

By L.G. Cramp, Chairman of IWUFOIS, this article explores the 'no-mans-land' between simple faith and analytical science in understanding UFOs. It suggests that while those with simple faith accept facts readily and those with pure analytical science dismiss inconsistencies, those in the 'no-mans-land' can examine the sky (UFO evidence) with a broader perspective. The article presents two viewpoints: the 'lay valley dweller' who accepts UFO evidence and assumes extraterrestrial origin within the solar system, and the 'scientist valley dweller' who, based on science, deems interstellar flight untenable and thus dismisses UFOs. Cramp sympathizes with the scientist's meticulous work but acknowledges potential errors. He questions the assumption that Earth's atmosphere is too dense to allow for clear readings of other planets, using Jupiter and Venus as examples. He argues that if the Sun were a 'cold body' as some theories suggest, Mercury and Venus would not be hot, and the dense atmospheres of Venus and Jupiter would not yield cold readings. The article concludes by stating that the scientific view is also inhibited, and that while the solar system appears inhospitable, millions of witnesses cannot all be liars or cranks.

Not to be taken too seriously

Freda Richards of IWUFOIS humorously speculates on extraterrestrial visitors, particularly female ones. She notes the male-centric assumption of alien visitors and mentions two obscure 'Flying Saucer women' from Austria. She reflects on the film 'The Day the Earth Stood Still,' wishing the visitor had shown superior intelligence by interacting more with Earth females. Richards wonders if aliens have evolved different methods of reproduction and relationships. She also considers women writers on the subject, suggesting they might possess extra-sensory perception and are waiting for male heroes to 'discover' wonders. She humorously concludes that Austrian visitors might have wisely retreated upon observing earthly males.

Really, Mr. Lloyd!

N. Spanner of IWUFOIS responds to a 'tame sceptic' named Mr. Lloyd. Spanner notes that the Astronomer Royal for Scotland's statement about human-type life on Mars and potential visits from them answers Mr. Lloyd more effectively than he could. Spanner questions Mr. Lloyd's statistics, calling them a 'perfect case of loading,' and accuses him of trying to prove Earth is the only life-supporting planet by juggling figures. Spanner also challenges Mr. Lloyd's views on space-flight, calling his figures 'dubious' and his postulates unrealistic. He criticizes Mr. Lloyd's interpretation of ancient traditions and myths, particularly his view of Peking Man as a man-ape, and his dating of civilization to 1500 years ago. Spanner refers to archaeological findings and ancient mathematics to support his argument that early man possessed advanced knowledge. He challenges Mr. Lloyd to name his authorities if he still holds his views.

Boeing Pilots see Satellite Re-entry?

This section reports on an incident from March 20th, where two Pan-American pilots in separate aircraft observed an object explode 200 miles from Lands End. A letter from Pan-American Airlines, signed by Maitland Zane, suggests the object was likely a portion or stage of an Earth satellite, possibly the booster rocket. Captain E.D. Morrison described the object as not a meteor, but a satellite/booster proceeding North to South with a curvature, turning red with a blue flame, and then exploding. The U.S.A. had announced a satellite failure on that day, leading to speculation that this was the observed object.

Pilot tells of Mystery glow in the Sky

An 'Evening News' reporter from Pretoria details a sighting by Captain R.B. Truter of South African Airways. While flying between Las Palmas and Zurich at 37,000 ft, he and his crew observed an object described as half an inch in diameter, with a bluish-white glow and perfectly circular. It remained stationary relative to visible stars for ten minutes before its position and shape altered, and it disappeared before sunrise. The report notes that satellites were due to re-enter Earth's atmosphere during April/May.

The Odd-shaped U.F.O's

Antoni W. Szachnowski, Chairman of the Anglo-Polish UFO Research Club, discusses UFOs that are not 'saucer' or 'cigar' shaped. He references a sighting by Mr. Colin Provest from the magazine's second issue, which fits between conical and triangular UFO shapes. Szachnowski then quotes a report from his March 1963 lecture about sightings over the Baltic Coast, specifically near Kolobrzeg and Koszalin, Poland. These reports describe strange objects emerging from the sea, rising into the sky, and in one instance, a triangular object rising from agitated water, encircling a locality, and disappearing into space. The description includes details of a funnel-shaped object with segmented light, dark streaks, and a central disc of polished silver or crystal.

Hidden Star Signalling Earth?

This piece reports on two Russian scientists, Genrikh Altov and Valentina Zhuravleva, who claim that the star 61st Cygnus has been sending powerful radio or light signals to Earth since 1882, causing near-disasters. They identify a greenish luminescent disc noted in 1882 as the first star in the Constellation of the Swan, inhabited by 'signal people.' The article links the star's signals to the Krakatoa volcanic eruption in 1882, which caused massive tidal waves and a dust blanket around the Earth.

Bournemouth Flying 'Girder' Sighting

(This article is mentioned in the table of contents but not present in the provided pages.)

Material that fell to Earth from the Moon

(This article is mentioned in the table of contents but not present in the provided pages.)

Space Travel, Relativity & the U.F.O's

By J. Cleary-Baker, Ph.D. (This article is mentioned in the table of contents but not present in the provided pages.)

Skywatch Date, News, Late News, Books you must read

These sections are listed in the table of contents but their content is not provided in the scanned pages.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of scientific skepticism and the belief in UFO phenomena. The editorial stance, as articulated by F.W. Smith, is one of open inquiry, seeking truth amidst conflicting narratives and official dismissals. There's a clear skepticism towards overly rigid scientific dogma that dismisses eyewitness accounts, while also acknowledging the value of scientific methodology. The articles present a mix of detailed sighting reports, theoretical discussions on the nature of UFOs and their origins, and critiques of established scientific and governmental positions. The recurring theme is the challenge of investigating phenomena that fall outside conventional understanding, and the importance of considering all evidence, even if it seems unconventional. The publication aims to provide a platform for diverse viewpoints within the UFO community, encouraging critical thinking and open discussion.

Title: Spacelink
Issue: Vol. 3 No. 3
Date: March 1964
Publisher: IWUFOIS (International UFO Investigators Society)
Country: UK
Language: English

This issue of Spacelink magazine, dated March 1964, covers a diverse range of topics including scientific advancements, astronomical phenomena, and UFO reports. It features articles on laser technology, the mysterious Siberian 'Tunguska Wonder,' a specific UFO sighting in Bournemouth, theories on space travel and relativity, and research into materials originating from the Moon.

Siberian Blast

The article "Siberian Blast" discusses the Tunguska event, suggesting it might have been caused by a powerful laser-type light signal from an extraterrestrial source. The time delay between the initial 'signal' and the subsequent 'reply' (the Tunguska explosion) is highlighted as evidence for this theory. The possibility of such signals being messages from other civilizations is explored, along with the potential for immense power associated with such technology.

The Beam

Two Leningrad astronomers are cited as proposing that the Siberian explosion was caused by a stream of laser-type light. They advised the formation of an international group to study this possibility. A spokesman from Jodrell Bank noted that the claim required further investigation, particularly regarding the time lag of the signals. The article speculates on the consequences if such powerful signals were to be exchanged between Earth and other civilizations.

Editors Note: LASER

This section provides a technical overview of the LASER (Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation), invented in 1960. It explains that the first laser used a ruby crystal and emitted a monochromatic red light. The note highlights the laser's potential as an energy conversion device and its implications for military applications ('death rays') and communication, suggesting light could be used for information transmission with greater capacity than radio.

Officers of IWUFOIS for 1963-1964

A list of the officers and staff for the International UFO Investigators Society (IWUFOIS) for the 1963-1964 period is provided, including the President, Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, Committee members, and 'Spacelink' staff such as the Editor, Circulation Manager, Librarian, and Material Liaison.

BOURNEMOUTH FLYING 'GIRDER' SIGHTING

This article details a UFO sighting reported by Mr. C. Barnes of Bournemouth. He described an object that looked like a "girder like object, aluminium in colour, about as big as a large airplane, and of lattice like construction." It was seen flying in a "see-saw like motion in a large semi-circle about two miles in diameter." Mr. Barnes, a former Royal Air Force member, stated it was unlike any aircraft he had seen. The object was estimated to be 75 ft. long and 15 ft. high, travelling at approximately 100 m.p.h. at an altitude of 3,000 ft. The sighting occurred over a built-up area and was apparently noiseless. IWUFOIS is seeking further details and witnesses for this case, which occurred approximately eighteen months prior to the report.

MATERIAL THAT FELL TO EARTH FROM THE MOON

This section discusses a new method developed in the United States for determining the age of rocks, which has led to new geologic theories. Scientists now believe that material blasted off the Moon's surface by meteorite impacts has fallen to Earth on at least three separate occasions. The technique involves examining tektites (solidified droplets of lunar material) and impactites. The article explains that uranium atoms in rocks decay at a known rate, acting as a 'clock' to date them. Three physicists, Dr. Robert L. Fleischer, D.P. Buford Price, and Dr. Robert M. Walker, used this method to date impactites and tektites, finding correlations in their ages, suggesting they originated from the same lunar events. The dating method revealed that impactites in the Libyan Desert and tektites in the United States formed 34 million years ago, while impactites in Tasmania and tektites in the Far East are about 700,000 years old. The scientists deduce that these tektite falls were likely accompanied by larger objects, implying more lunar debris may be present on Earth.

SPACE TRAVEL, RELATIVITY & THE U.F.O's

Authored by J. Cleary-Baker, Ph.D., this article explores the implications of Einstein's Special Theory of Relativity for interstellar space travel. It explains that the speed of light (186,000 miles per second) is the ultimate velocity, making journeys to distant stars extremely long in human lifespans. The concept of 'time-dilation' is discussed, suggesting that for a spaceship crew travelling at near light speed, time would pass much slower than for observers on Earth. Dr. Eugen Sanger's figures are presented, illustrating hypothetical travel times to celestial bodies like the Moon, Alpha Centauri, and the Andromeda Nebula, with corresponding time differences for the crew versus Earth. The article questions whether the crew would return to an Earth that had aged billions of years. It posits that UFOs might utilize such advanced propulsion, potentially allowing them to overcome the limitations of time and distance. The author suggests that humanity might be viewed as an 'area of exploitation' by older, more advanced races, and that our future may depend on our spiritual and cultural development, potentially leading to confinement or admission into a 'Cosmic Brotherhood.'

LATE NEWS SPOT - BEWARE OF BUGS FROM SPACE

A bacteriologist, D.P. Sneath, warns in the magazine "Discovery" about the potential for alien life forms to invade Earth via returning spaceships. He also notes the risk of contaminating other planets with Earth bacteria. Spaceships are advised to be disinfected to prevent such contamination, drawing parallels to how introduced organisms can become pests in new environments on Earth.

DETECTOR IN ROCKET FINDS X-RAY STARS

American astronomers, using a detector on an Aerobee rocket, have found evidence of "X-Ray stars." These findings, reported in the journal Nature, support theories about stellar evolution, suggesting these sources could be neutron stars, the dense remnants of supernovae.

GHOST WAS 7 FT. TALL

A brief report from Singapore describes a village's encounter with a seven-feet tall poltergeist, described as having a bald head, a man's face, and resembling a gorilla. Its appearances were followed by showers of concrete chunks raining on roofs.

SPACE MEN TRAIN ON EARTH

The American Boeing Company has designed a "life support system" for isolating five men for 30 days, simulating conditions for future space voyages. The system includes water reconstitution, oxygen generation, and a controlled environment. This section also reprints extracts from an article by Arthur C. Clarke, emphasizing the philosophical and religious shocks humanity might face upon discovering extraterrestrial life and the need for spiritual and cultural development.

LATE NEWS - "Charlton Crater"

This brief note warns readers about Dr. Randall, associated with the "Charlton Crater" incident, who appears to be soliciting money for his "Ce-Fu-X Society" and a "Spaceship Communicator." Readers are advised to exercise caution before sending money, noting Dr. Randall's silence as a cause for concern. His last known address was in Tidworth, Hants.

BOOKS YOU MUST READ

A recommendation for Henry Ward's book "You are in danger of the menace of the GREEN SUNS," published by Panther Books. The book is described as having an uncanny air of authenticity until its halfway mark and is suggested as an excellent read for a train journey.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Spacelink revolve around the exploration of the unknown, both in space and in potential extraterrestrial phenomena. There is a strong emphasis on scientific speculation, particularly concerning advanced technologies like lasers and the implications of relativity for space travel. The magazine consistently explores the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence and its potential impact on humanity, ranging from the idea of cosmic signals to the more cautionary notes about contamination and the need for spiritual development. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry into UFOs and related scientific and speculative topics, encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond conventional understanding, while also urging caution regarding unsubstantiated claims and potential scams.