Spacelink 1968 vol 5 no 3

Magazine Overview

Title: SPACELINK
Issue: VOLUME 5 NUMBER 3
Date: JULY 1968
Publisher: Lionel Beer
Country: United Kingdom
Price: 3/-

This issue of SPACELINK, an independent magazine specializing in World UFO News and the Flying Saucer Scene, delves into various UFO-related topics, including investigations, controversial cases, and international efforts to address the phenomenon. The magazine aims to bridge the 'credibility gap' between public belief and scientific understanding.

Editorial: The Credibility Gap

The editorial highlights a significant gap between truth and popular belief in many fields, particularly ufology. It suggests that while scientific discoveries often challenge established dogmas, the UFO field faces a unique challenge. The editorial proposes bringing together those who have witnessed phenomena and those with the knowledge to interpret them, aiming to convince the former of the scientific possibility of their experiences and persuade the latter to grant them due credibility.

Editorial Feature: "Colorado Catastrophe"

This section critically examines the 'Condon Committee' investigation into UFO phenomena, which was nearing completion. It quotes Dr. James E. McDonald, a physicist and UFO researcher, who criticized the 'abysmally limited scientific competence' in past Air Force UFO studies. The article references a 'Look' magazine expose calling the Colorado project a 'Flying Saucer Fiasco' and details a memo from Project Co-ordinator Dr. Robert Low. This memo suggests the study would focus on the psychology of observers rather than the physical phenomena, aiming to present an image of non-believers trying to be objective, thereby influencing the scientific community's perception.

Dr. Edward U. Condon, the committee's chairman, is quoted as describing the UFO business as 'crazy' and likening his role to being 'chief of a fire department that only answers false alarms.' The article notes that the 'National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena' (NICAP) broke ties with the Condon project, finding only a small percentage of their evidence was investigated.

Comments on the Soviet Scene

This section reports that the Soviet UFO Commission was reportedly squashed by the Soviet Academy of Sciences. A correspondent in Moscow relays that Felix Y. Zigel stated he was not in a position to participate in information exchange due to the circumstances. The reasoning suggested is that the government reacted strongly because of agitation caused by UFO reports, implying that the matter might not be entirely dismissed as science fiction nonsense. The article notes that Soviet magazines publish science fiction involving interplanetary travel without objection.

Late News

BUFORA is acting as consultants for a proposed UFO information stand at the DAILY MAIL's 'The New Year Show' in London. The stand will feature a UFO diorama, photos, and captions, with BUFORA's Mobile Field Unit present. SPACELINK editors will be manning the stand to answer questions. The event is expected to attract a large audience and is seen as an opportunity to promote UFO research in the UK.

Readers' Letters

This section features numerous letters from readers, predominantly expressing praise for the new format and content of SPACELINK. Correspondents from Canada, Belgium, Australia, and various parts of the UK commend the magazine's presentation, informative contents, and 'contact section.' Some offer their own publications for exchange and express enthusiasm for future issues. One letter from Peter E. Norris LL.B, President of the Victorian U.F.O. Research Society, clarifies a dispute regarding the publication history of 'Australian Flying Saucer Review,' explaining the roles of UFOIC and VUFORS.

Captain Jim Gallops Off with TV Probe

This article reviews a BBC television program by Dr. Stephen Black that investigated Flying Saucers. While the program was described as 'maddeningly inconclusive,' it highlighted Captain Jim Howard of BOAC's Flight Development Unit. Howard reported seeing a group of six small flying objects and one larger one keeping station with his Stratocruiser for twenty minutes on June 29, 1954. The article notes that the objects were observed independently by the front-end crew and passengers, lending conviction to Howard's account. The review suggests that while the film contained interesting material, some 'red herrings' or 'possible' explanations were presented, and the program ended with a question mark.

The editorial comment criticizes the TV program for presenting 'possible' explanations and downplaying significant cases like the Socorro landing. It suggests Dr. Black (whose real name is rumored to be different) may have used scientific jargon to obscure the evidence.

Strange Metal Found in Columbia

This report details the discovery of strange metallic debris in eastern Colombia following the explosion of a flying object on February 12, 1968. Natives reported seeing a metallic disc-shaped object before the blasts. A research party found a crater and fragments of metal, with a large piece weighing 57 kilograms being transported to Bogota. The metal is described as extremely hard, smooth, with tinges of green and orange, and possessing tiny grooves. It emitted a bell-like sound when struck. Scientists from various countries, including American specialists, examined the object, stating it was not part of a satellite or a meteor. Local natives also reported frequent sightings of 'flying balls' and a large object that had previously come down in the area.

Corrigenda and Supplement for Last Edition

This section provides corrections and additional details for the previous edition. It clarifies the circumstances of the 'Eslpin photo,' taken by Dennis Esplin, describing the dark-brown disc-shaped object with a central dome. It also apologizes for omitting an article by Dr. Wernher Von Braun due to space constraints and lists two UK publications that had not previously come to their attention: 'NICAP CHRONICLES' and 'S.I.U.F.O.P. NEWSLETTER.' A correction is also noted for the Angela Cotton story, with the date changed to July 1966.

Obituary

This section reports the death of Dr. Olavo T. Fontes, a highly respected Brazilian UFO researcher and APRO representative, on May 9, 1968.

Project International UFO Petition

Antoni W. Szachnowski, Chairman of the Anglo-Polish UFO Research Club, provides an update on his petition, which aims to determine if people want UFOs investigated on a global scale, potentially under the UN or UNESCO. The questionnaire has been translated into several languages and is circulating in about 20 countries. Example questions include whether UFOs are a global psychological phenomenon and the likely outcome of extensive contact with an alien civilization. The UK returns have mostly been positive, with some abusive remarks.

UFO Men Seek a Place on the UN Agenda

This article reports that a group of scientists, the Intercontinental UFO Research and Analytic Network (ICUFON), urged UN member nations to put the UFO problem before the Security Council. They requested emergency classification for UFOs and placement on the agenda of the UN's conference on the peaceful uses of outer space. ICUFON cited factual evidence, governmental investigations, and the lack of an international research body as motivations for this request.

Congress Told of Flying Objects

A report from 'The Times' states that the science and astronautics committee of the House of Representatives was told that there were too many UFOs to rule out the possibility that Earth might be under surveillance by creatures from outer space. Dr. James McDonald expressed seriousness about this possibility, recalling sightings during the 1965 US power blackout and impressive British sightings in Staffordshire.

Nigel Stephenson

This section includes a photograph of Nigel Stephenson and mentions a 'Tribute to Nigel Stephenson.' It also features photos related to BUFORA's Sky-Watch Day on June 15, 1968, showing the separation of a MOLNIA communication satellite and the BUFORA Field Unit with observers at Pewley Downs, Guildford. The date was chosen to coincide with the convergence of the asteroid Icarus with Earth.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SPACELINK revolve around the critical examination of official UFO investigations, the challenges of establishing credibility in the field, and the reporting of significant UFO cases from around the world. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, critical of what it perceives as dismissive or biased official approaches, and supportive of independent research and the dissemination of information to the public. There is a clear effort to present a balanced view, acknowledging skepticism while advocating for serious consideration of UFO phenomena.

SPACELINK, Volume 14, Issue 14, dated August 1968, is a UK-based magazine focused on UFO research and related phenomena. This issue features articles on UFO organizations, specific sightings, investigations, and the challenges faced by researchers.

Tribute to Nigel Stephenson

This section details the founding and early years of the London U.F.O. Research Organisation (LUFORO) on July 11th, 1959, by four young people: Roy Stemman, Nigel Stephenson, Susanne Stebbing, and Paul Teugels. Nigel Stephenson is highlighted for establishing the organization's aims and serving as Director of Research. He was also a key figure in the formation of the British UFO Research Association, initiating the concept and producing application materials. The article recounts LUFORO's struggles with limited resources and personnel, with Stephenson often carrying a significant administrative burden alone. His vision for a national federation of UFO societies was eventually realized.

Lionel Beer notes that as BUFORA grew, Nigel's 'lone approach' became difficult, leading to his departure from the BUFORA executive in April of that year, with a vote of thanks for his services expressed.

BUFORA Sky-Watch Report

Edgar Hatvany, the editor, organized a nationwide sky-watch event on June 15/16th, coinciding with the approach of the asteroid Icarus. Approximately 30 watching points were established across the UK, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, with international cooperation from the Benelux UFO Co-operation. Despite efforts, including radar surveillance and radio 'hams' with boosted reception, most locations reported almost complete cloud coverage. Some limited sightings were reported, including a balloon-shaped red object seen descending rapidly at Guildford, and a red light observed near the horizon. Other groups reported white lights and flashing lights. A group at Chanctonbury Ring claimed to experience a 'strange presence' and physical discomfort, though subsequent investigations found nothing unusual.

The Dutch Scene

Authored by G.J. Kok, editor of VLIEGENDE SCHOTEL NIEUWS and Chairman of NOBOVO-IUFOB, this article discusses UFO sightings in the Netherlands. It highlights the existence of eight UFO societies in Holland, including NOBOVO. A significant case investigated by NOBOVO in 1967 involved a sighting near Gorredijk. Mrs.X reported seeing a large, orange-coloured object that flew slowly near her house, causing a temporary blackout. Investigations into the blackout revealed it was unusual, with the local electricity center having no record of it. The Air Force and the Laboratory for Space Research at Utrecht could not identify the object as a plane or balloon. The article also mentions a speech by Dutch astronomer Prof.Dr.C. de Jager, who stated astronomers have never seen UFOs, which is contrasted with other astronomers' experiences. A recent letter from Prof.Dr. R. Bakker expressed support for NOBOVO's UFO investigations. The article also references a mysterious failure in the high tension power circuit in Arnhem on November 13th, 1967, which was accompanied by sightings of a luminous object and television interference.

The Australian Scene

This section reports on a "flying saucer nest" discovered in a cane field near Cairns, North Queensland, similar to one found in 1966. It also covers the third national conference of the Commonwealth Aerial Phenomena Investigation Organisation (CAPIO) in Canberra, attended by delegates from 11 of its 14 member societies. Discussions focused on inter-society cooperation. Extracts from Stan Seers's report highlight the possibility of peak UFO activity being related to sunspot cycles. Two monitoring devices were installed, and one was triggered by a UFO. A case involving a North Queensland radio station reporting an airliner being paced by a UFO is mentioned, with the film from the monitoring camera reportedly suppressed.

The Scoriton Mystery

This article delves into the controversial Scoriton Mystery case, involving gardener Arthur Bryant's alleged encounter with a UFO and its occupants in Devon in 1965. The article questions the significance of Bryant's experience and its connection to Adamski and Mantell. Lionel Beer, responsible for initiating BUFORA's involvement, recounts his initial investigation and expresses skepticism about the 'pieces' allegedly dropped by Captain Mantell's plane, noting they lacked aircraft part numbers and serial numbers. He also points out the lack of evidence for Bryant's claim of speaking with 'Venusian Brothers,' given the harsh conditions on Venus reported by Russian probes. The article suggests the possibility of hoaxes staged by unknown entities.

UFO Guide (Selected Examples)

This section presents a series of illustrated UFO sightings, with brief descriptions and references. Examples include a sighting in Dorset, a round object seen in Georgia, a cone-shaped object in Connecticut, an incident at Exeter, a cigar-shaped UFO, an oval glowing object in California, and a description of a UFO with a landing support.

DATELINE CANADA

Allan K. Vezina reports on the Steven Michalak case from Winnipeg, Manitoba. Michalak encountered a UFO near Falcon Lake in May 1967 and, upon returning a year later, found several pieces of radioactive metal shaped like an 'S'. He described the craft as a hot stainless steel saucer, about 40 feet in diameter, and reported being severely burned. The burns reappeared periodically. Canadian Armed Forces officials expressed interest in analyzing the metal pieces.

Blackburn Fake UFO Photograph

This piece serves as a cautionary example, illustrating how UFO photographs can be faked. It discusses a photo published by the Blackburn Times, which, upon closer inspection, revealed a star-trail parallel to the bright object, indicating a time exposure of the moon. The article emphasizes that UFO photos are easily faked and can mislead editors.

Contact Section

This section includes "The Scoriton Editor's Final Analysis" by E.H., which expresses skepticism about the ufological sanctuary encountered during the investigation of the Scoriton case, citing the presence of Adamski-related books and materials. It also features "FIENDISH ENCOUNTER ON THE HILLS OF CUSSAC" by Joel Mesnard and Claude Pavy, detailing an incident in Southern France where two children reported seeing four black, shining beings and a bright globe. The article notes a sulphur smell and the unusual behavior of cattle. The translation credit is given to Mrs. Dagmar Sarkar.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation and critical analysis of UFO reports. There is a clear stance against sensationalism and a focus on factual reporting, as demonstrated by the debunking of the Blackburn fake photograph and the skepticism expressed regarding the Scoriton Mystery. The publication highlights the challenges faced by UFO researchers, including the potential for hoaxes, suppression of evidence, and the need for scientific scrutiny. The recurring theme is the ongoing effort to understand UFO phenomena through organized research and the sharing of information, while maintaining a cautious and evidence-based approach. The magazine also promotes various UFO organizations and resources for further study.

This issue of 'Historical Section' from September/October 1968, published by Lionel Beer, focuses on historical accounts of 'Flying Crosses' and UFO phenomena, with a strong emphasis on their interpretation across different eras.

Flying Crosses and Ancient Interpretations

The lead article, 'FLYING CROSSES' by Raymond Drake, explores the historical and supernatural significance attributed to sightings of crosses in the sky. It begins with the pivotal event in AD 312, where Emperor Constantine reportedly saw a luminous cross with the inscription 'BY THIS I CONQUER,' which influenced his decision to support Christianity. Eusebius's account of this miracle is detailed, highlighting its impact on the establishment of Christianity as the official religion of the Roman Empire.

The article then traces other historical accounts of cross-like phenomena. The Norman Knight Gaimar noted a sign in the sky in 773 that stretched in the likeness of a Cross. Tradition dates the Order of the Thistle to AD 787, following a Scots King's sighting of a bright Cross before a battle. William of Newbury reported an incident in AD 1189 above Dunstable, where a striking shape resembling the Emblem of Our Lord, with a dazzling milk-like whiteness and the form of a crucified man, was seen.

Matthew of Paris documented a similar event in Germany around AD 1227, where a Crucifix appeared in the air. The article posits that perhaps early humans venerated the Cross as a symbol of a spaceship or 'Gods' from other planets, suggesting that 'We should welcome Crosses in the sky as heralding the return of the Spacemen!' as stated by W.R. Drake.

Modern UFO Sightings and Official Reactions

The issue also covers more contemporary UFO sightings. On October 24th, 1967, Police Constables Roger Willey and Clifford Waycott near Okehampton, Devon, reported seeing a large luminous cross, which they followed for about twelve miles before it vanished. Official experts, however, attributed such sightings to the planet Venus or American aircraft refuelling, dismissing the officers' accounts.

Reference Section and Book Reviews

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a 'Reference Section' listing various Australian and New Zealand publications specializing in UFO information, including their frequency, circulation, size, cost, and comments. This section provides details on magazines like 'AUSTRALIAN FLYING SAUCER REVIEW,' 'UFOIC NEWSLETTER,' 'PANORAMA,' and 'SPACEVIEW.'

Several book reviews are featured:

• FLYING SAUCERS OVER AUSTRALIA by James Holledge is described as a collection of good UFO reports from Australia between 1951 and 1965, suitable as introductory material but somewhat outdated.
• FLYING SAUCER REPORT by Roger Stanway & Anthony Pace is recommended for UFO investigators, detailing 70 UFO reports from the Stoke-on-Trent area and including general supporting material.
• SPACEMEN IN THE ANCIENT EAST by W. Raymond Drake explores the theory that Earth was once ruled by beings from other worlds, drawing parallels between ancient myths and modern UFO accounts.
• UFO GUIDE 1947-1967 by Martin H. Sable is a collection of bibliographies and directories, though noted as having outdated information on organizations and periodicals.

Other books reviewed include 'THE HUMANOIDS,' 'DESIGN FOR A FLYING SAUCER,' 'FLYING SAUCERS' by Ray Palmer, 'ALLENDE LETTERS,' 'THE TRUE REPORT ON FLYING SAUCERS,' and various others covering different aspects of UFO phenomena, contact stories, and related topics.

Fake Photographs and Case Studies

The issue addresses the issue of fake UFO photographs with an example from Brisbane, Australia. Eight photos taken by 'Sonny' Wallace in October 1967 were investigated by the Queensland Flying Saucer Research Bureau. The investigation revealed fine linear alignments extending from the object, suggesting a model was used and that careful research can unmask fakes.

Further photographic evidence is presented from Argentina, including photos taken near Rosario in 1965 and Cordoba in 1967, with notes on their detail and potential interpretations. A UFO report from Hanoi, North Vietnam, in 1967, describes a bright glowing object seen by hundreds of people, including military personnel.

Lionel's Litter

'Lionel's Litter' by Lionel Beer includes various short news items, such as reports on 'ALMAS' or 'ALMASTY' creatures in the Caucasus, the re-entry of the ECHO I satellite, unexplained holes in ice in Sweden, and a report on India's family planning program. It also mentions a new planet discovered by Professor Raffaele Bendandi and a 'Rain of Live Fish' incident in Harlow, Essex.

John Searl's unveiling of a metal circle, described as a UFO prototype, is also noted, along with his personal circumstances. The section concludes with reports on 'Unknown Insects' in Spain and Douglas Woolley's research into the Titanic disaster, suggesting a method for refloating the wreck using balloons.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the historical interpretation of celestial phenomena as UFOs or divine signs, the contrast between ancient beliefs and modern skepticism towards UFOs, and the critical examination of evidence, including the debunking of fake photographs. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into UFO phenomena, acknowledging both historical accounts and modern investigations, while also maintaining a critical perspective on photographic evidence and official explanations. The magazine aims to provide a comprehensive overview of UFO literature and reported incidents.