Spacelink 1968 vol 5 no 4

Magazine Overview

SPACELINK, Volume 5, Number 4, October 1968, is an independent magazine specializing in World UFO News and the Flying Saucer Scene. Published by Lionel Beer, it features a cover headline of "UFO OVER MADRID" and includes articles on various UFO-related topics, investigations, and reader contributions.

Editorial: "Things Aren't What They Seem To Be"

In his editorial, Edgar Hatvany discusses the "Fennington affair" and the general principle in ufology that initial appearances can be deceiving. He highlights the 1897 "great U.S.A. flap" of aerial vehicles, which was widely accepted until recent research by ufologist Dr. Geoffrey Doel suggested it was the work of inventor Edward J. Pennington, who kept the project secret. Hatvany posits that UFOs might employ camouflage and exploit natural phenomena. He also touches upon the November 20th celestial spectacle, which some interpreted as a Russian rocket re-entry but others reported as low-altitude vehicles with visible occupants.

UFO Over Spain: UFO Over Madrid

This article details a significant UFO sighting in Madrid on September 5th, 1968. Thousands of Spaniards observed a pyramid-shaped object with three lights for approximately 65 minutes. The Spanish Air Force dispatched an F-104 jet, which reached 50,000 feet but could still not intercept the object. Another pilot at 36,000 feet also reported seeing it, and Air Force radar indicated movement at 90,000 feet. A reporter at the Madrid Astronomical Observatory described the object as emitting a "blinding light," and a photograph taken through a telescope revealed a triangular, partially translucent object. While the American air base at Torrejon failed to detect it on radar, a meteorological station in Cuenca reported a similar triangular object for several hours. The Spanish Air Ministry later issued a communique urging immediate reporting of UFO sightings. The article notes that a possible explanation offered was a French meteorological balloon, a theory also applied to a cone-shaped object seen over Torbay in 1967.

UFO Over The States, 1948

This section compares the Madrid sighting with an earlier event from February 18th, 1948, near Norton, Kansas. A meteor-like object was reported by Duane Wray and others across Kansas and Oklahoma. Reports suggested it rose from the ground and exploded multiple times. This account is reproduced from "The Coming of the Saucers" by Arnold and Palmer.

Publication Details and Contents

Page 3 provides the editorial and management details for SPACELINK, including the editor, art editor, and managing editor. It lists numerous consultants, contributors, and translators from various countries. Subscription and single copy prices are provided for the UK, US, and Australia. The contents page lists articles such as "Newspaper coverage of the 'Condon Report'," "When the M.O.D. Front Men came out into the open" by Lionel Beer, "Report on the BUFORA Northern Conference," and various reader letters and research projects. It also notes the publication's history, with SPACELINK formerly being published by F.W. Smith.

U.S. Report Upsets The UFO-Spotters

This section compiles press coverage from UK newspapers regarding the Condon Report. The University of Colorado's study, led by Dr. Edward Condon, concluded that there is no evidence to justify belief in flying saucers and that further study is not warranted. The report dismissed claims of extraterrestrial craft and suggested that most sightings have natural explanations or are hoaxes. Dr. David Saunders, a joint principal investigator, criticized Condon's approach, believing it was predetermined to find psychological explanations. The report also recommended that teachers stop students from reading about UFOs, deeming it "educationally harmful." The article includes reactions from UFO spotters and organizations like NICAP, who challenged the report's findings.

Ministry of Defence "Front Men" Came Out Into The Open

This article details an investigation by Ministry of Defence (M.O.D.) officials into a UFO sighting by Angus Brooks at Owermoigne, Dorset, on October 26th, 1967. The M.O.D. team, including Dr. John Dickison, Mr. Alec Cassie, and Mr. L. W. Akhurst, visited the site months after the event. Their explanation to Mr. Brooks involved a contrail and "vitreous floater" (a dead cell), which Mr. Brooks found unsatisfactory. The article also recounts Roger Stanway and Anthony Pace's visit to the M.O.D. to inquire about UFO reports. They were informed by Mr. Cassells that the Ministry's role was to find explanations and that no one was employed full-time on UFO investigations, nor were on-the-spot enquiries conducted. They were assured that no evidence of extra-terrestrial connection had been found.

BUFORA Northern Conference in Manchester, 12th October 1968

Lionel Beer reports on the BUFORA conference hosted by the Direct Investigation Group on Aerial Phenomena (DIGAP). The event featured a display of UFO material, talks on "Experiences of Contact Claims" by Norman Oliver, and discussions on the Ministry of Defence's approach to UFO investigation. The conference also included a lecture on "Skyways and Landmarks" by Tony Duncan Wedd. Beer compares it unfavorably in terms of practical and technical level to a previous Bristol Conference but praises the exhibition's diversity and quantity.

Apology and Publication Schedule

The Managing Editor apologizes for the delay in publishing the issue, explaining it was due to the opportunity to have a stand at the DAILY MAIL New Year Show in London, which required significant management effort. The delay also allowed for more time to prepare SPACELINK for publication, with the aim of establishing a reliable schedule. The editors also seek reader input on printing choices (offset litho vs. letterpress).

Readers Letters

This section features correspondence from various individuals and organizations. NICAP commends SPACELINK's conservative editorial policy. William Herschell expresses his admiration for the journal's business-like approach. Roger Stanway and Anthony Pace congratulate the staff on an interesting and well-balanced issue. Donald Johnson, editor of FLYING SAUCER OBSERVER, praises the publication. Rev. Edward Palmer, editor of the Portland Flying Saucer Club Newsletter, expresses enjoyment and wishes success. Kathleen Smith requests reliable sighting reports for UFOLOG. Duncan C. Hogg seeks information on Scottish sightings. Miss Janet Gregory criticizes the inclusion of Raymond Drake's "poem." Arthur Shuttlewood congratulates the magazine and offers to contribute later.

Some Thoughts on Contact

Mrs. S.M. Walker reflects on descriptions of UFO occupants, suggesting they might be scientifically produced beings for specific space program roles. She contemplates the possibility of advanced alien civilizations and draws parallels between alien research and human space programs. She also muses on "Flying Wheels" tales and the concept of slipping into one's future.

Local Club News

Barry W. Woodgate reports on the "Fleet UFO Study Group" and the "South Herts Group," detailing their activities, membership, and plans for expansion. He mentions the upcoming publication of a Group bulletin and expresses interest in hearing from other societies.

More Praise!

Eric Biddle congratulates the editors on the excellent July issue. P. K. Parkinson praises SPACELINK as a very good publication. Mark Bouge, editor of SAUCER MAGAZINE, thanks them for an exchange copy. P. Gregory commends the July edition as a fine issue, combining aspects of BUFORA and international ufology. Gerald Lovell, Hon. Sec. of Contact U.K., congratulates them on filling a gap in UK publication.

Incident in Dorset

This article details a typical "close approach" UFO report investigated by Frank Marshall. On September 8th, 1968, three cars stalled simultaneously on a rural road in Dorset. Witnesses reported stopped clocks, a spinning compass, and a penknife sticking to a galvanised shed. A Geiger-counter registered no unusual radiation. The farmer reported no unusual activity from his cows, though he did recall seeing an unoccupied blue Ford Anglia. The incident received local publicity but yielded no further clues. Research credit is given to Frank Marshall and Clive Dudderidge.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a serious and investigative approach to UFO phenomena, distinguishing itself from sensationalist or "cultist" aspects. There is a clear emphasis on factual reporting, witness testimony, and scientific analysis, even when questioning official explanations or established narratives. The editorial stance encourages critical thinking, as highlighted by the "Things Aren't What They Seem To Be" theme. The publication also serves as a platform for ufology organizations and enthusiasts to share information, research, and opinions, fostering a sense of community and shared interest in the subject.

This issue of SPACELINK, dated May 7, 1968, is a UFO-focused publication featuring a variety of articles, reports, and advertisements related to unidentified flying objects and related phenomena. The magazine includes a mix of contemporary sightings, historical accounts, and promotional material for UFO research organizations and publications.

UFO Detector Advertisement

The issue opens with an advertisement for a "UFO DETECTOR" utilizing a compass-needle principle with an SCR latching circuit and a two-tone audio oscillator. It is battery operated, fully transistorized, and housed in a mahogany case, priced at £5 5s in the UK, with overseas postage extra. Contact information is provided for R. Adams.

Phenomènes Spatiaux

SK strongly recommends "PHENOMÈNES SPATIAUX" to French-reading ufologists. This quarterly publication by GEPA is described as neatly printed, packed with serious and technical material, and 34 pages long. Single copies cost 7.5 Francs, and annual subscriptions are 30 Francs. René Foueré is the contact person.

Free Subscription Offer

An offer is presented for readers to win a free SPACELINK subscription or free flying saucer literature by enrolling three new subscribers within a six-month period. Attractive SK forms are supplied free.

Saucers, Space and Science

"SAUCERS, SPACE AND SCIENCE" is highlighted as Canada's foremost UFO publication, edited by Gene Duplantier. It provides up-to-date details of the Canadian UFO scene and interesting news from around the world, featuring 20 illustrated lithographed pages and published quarterly. Subscriptions are $2.00 p.a. and can be sent to Gene Duplantier.

Recommended by Spacelink

A book titled "WARNINGS FROM FLYING FRIENDS" by Arthur Shuttlewood is recommended. It is described as an astonishing new book on UFOs, a big book with a big message, featuring authentic UFO pictures, priced at 26/0d excluding post. Orders should be sent to Portway Press.

Personal Section

The "PERSONAL" section contains several advertisements and notices:

• ALIENS UNIDENTIFIED RESEARCH ORGANISATION: A new UFO club seeking members of both sexes. Details can be obtained from John Parkinson.
• Old English Coins: An advertisement for brilliant uncirculated and extra fine old English coins for sale, with contact information for Alex Dudley.
• ESPACIO: The first Argentine magazine devoted to UFO sightings and landings, published in Spanish with an English supplement. It is published bi-monthly by A.O.A. Internacional. Information can be obtained from Guillermo Aldunati.
• COS-MOS: An organization interested in saucer landings and contacts, seeking members to share experiences. Contact Brian Simmonds.
• "FLYING SAUCERS ARE FACT" Magazine: A 16-page magazine dealing with UFO research and information, available for 2/6d including postage. Published quarterly.
• Flying Saucer Items: Advertisements for gigantic discounts on flying saucer items, including a set of six photos for $1.00 and the "UFO CATALOG 1969" for $1.00. Contact PARADICE.
• BUFORA Stickers: Envelopes can be publicised with BUFORA stickers reading "Flying Saucers Are Fact...". Prices are listed for various quantities.
• WANTED: A copy of "GODS OR SPACEMEN" by Raymond Drake and "BUFORA's UFO HANDBOOK No.1". Contact The Managing Editor, SPACELINK.
• UFO CHRONICLE: A quarterly publication for a factual look at UFOs, available for 10/0d a year.
• WANTED: Second-hand UFO books, magazines, and journals. Payment is offered for copies of "FLYING SAUCER REVIEW" and earlier editions.
• N.B. U.S. Dollar = 8/4d approximately.
• PLEASE MENTION SPACELINK WHEN REPLYING TO ADVERTS.

Project Saint and Project Blue Book

A letter from the Department of the Air Force, dated May 7, 1968, addressed to Mr. Llewellyn, responds to an inquiry about "PROJECT SAINT." The letter states that a research into Air Force files and those of the Air Force Systems Command discloses no releasable information concerning such a project. Regarding "Project Blue Book," the latest version is at the printers and will be available in a few weeks. The letter is signed by H. A. Susskind, Lt Colonel, USAF.

UFO's Secret Discovered

This article by Paul Massa discusses an object photographed in a junkyard for space hardware at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico. It was a test vehicle for NASA's Mars landing Voyager Programme, tested five times in 1966 and 1967. The craft was lifted to 130,000 feet by balloon and then its eight jets rocketed it to 140,000 feet to simulate the thin Martian atmosphere. Instruments were dropped by parachute, and the aeroshell was lowered by balloon. The article suggests this object might account for some flying saucer sightings, with an Air Force official cautiously admitting it could "conceivably give the illusion of being a flying saucer." The red-orange jets were often reported, and NASA engineers reportedly called it the "Flying Saucer." Massa claims NASA officials seemed embarrassed when he enquired about the craft. A UPI story indicated White Sands officials denied the Voyager programme could be responsible for UFO sightings.

Giant Mushrooms in Argentina

This report details a sensational case from Correa, Argentina, in October 1968, where newspaper headlines announced "A SQUADRON OF FLYING SAUCERS HAVE LANDED IN CORREA" and "GIANT MUSHROOMS HAVE APPEARED." Investigators from A.O.A. visited the farm of Mr. Alberto Damiani, who reported seeing eleven circles formed of burnt grass and several gigantic mushrooms. Neighbours reported seeing flying discs. A.O.A. was investigating the case, including two of the mushrooms. The report also mentions similar giant mushrooms found in the provinces of Santa Fe and Necochea, some with a diameter of 90 centimetres. People in Lima believe flying saucers emerge from Lake Titicaca.

Spacelink UFO Guide (Part 1)

This section, drawn and researched by David Thompson, presents a series of UFO sighting accounts:

1. January 9, 1967: Dan and Grant Jaroslaw saw a mysterious object hovering over Lake St.Clair, Michigan. Four snaps were taken before the object sped off.
2. 1954: Mr. W.C. Hall, an Australian rancher, saw an object hovering over his sheep.
3. Spring 1950: Paul Trent photographed a saucer at his farm in McMinnville, Oregon, a photo considered genuine.
4. November 13, 1966: Ralph Ditter saw a metallic object rotating counter-clockwise over Zanesville, Ohio.
5. July 31, 1952: Gianpietro Monguzzi and his wife saw a circular machine with a transparent dome land on the Cherchen Glacier, and a humanoid emerge.
6. July 29, 1952: George Stock of Passaic, New Jersey, took seven photos of a UFO passing over his home.
7. Undated: An object similar to George Adamski's "Scout Ship" was seen and filmed by West Virginian schoolboys.
8. October 26, 1967: Mr. B.J. Colley reported a dark object in the sky that caused his vehicle's electrical system to fail.
9. April 1966: Five policemen in Akron, Ohio, observed a saucer resembling one seen by the Jaroslaw brothers.
10. Undated: A Martin B-57 was apparently paced by a UFO near Edwards Air Force Base, California.

The section notes that no claims are made about the authenticity of the cases or the accuracy of drawings.

Reader Research Project

SPACELINK is soliciting readers to compile a full list of explanations and theories used to dismiss flying saucers. A mini-prize of one guinea is offered for the best edited list. Manuscripts should be sent to Edgar Hatvany.

Obituary

Robert E. Loftin, 50, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, author of "IDENTIFIED FLYING SAUCERS," died on November 21st, 1968, after suffering a heart attack. He was the author of the book, a coordinator for the Colorado University Project, and a director of the Tulsa Aerial Phenomena Research Organisation.

Spacelink UFO Guide (Part 2)

This continues the UFO sighting accounts:

11. June 16, 1963: Paul Villa photographed a saucer near Albuquerque, New Mexico. His claims of speaking with occupants and being advised of times are mentioned, though the authenticity of his pictures is questioned.
12. March 2, 1966: Police Constable Colin Perks saw a bell-shaped UFO hovering in Wilmslow, Cheshire.
13. April 2, 1966: A Melbourne business executive photographed a bell-shaped object over Balwyn, Australia, approximately 25 feet in diameter.
14. September 16, 1965: South African Police had a close-range encounter with a saucer, reporting flames underneath as it took off and leaving physical evidence on the road surface.
15. September 14, 1965: Paul Green observed a large, gasometer-sized object hovering near Mersea Island, Essex, emitting a flashing blue light.
16. Undated: A description of a common type of flying saucer observed by reliable people, often described as two inverted plates rim to rim, with lights around the perimeter and a dome.
17. February 24, 1966: Mrs. Tully and her children saw a UFO on their property near Tully, Australia, approximately 60 feet in size and rotating.
18. June 24, 1947: Kenneth Arnold saw nine gleaming objects flying over the Cascade range, coining the term "flying saucer."
19. October 21, 1965: Arthur Strauch and four others spotted an object two miles from St.George, Minnesota, which moved and changed light before flying off with a high-pitched whine.
20. June 25, 1966: Police Officer William Stevens saw a strange craft about 300 feet above the ground near Richmond, Virginia, described as dull white or grey, large, with lights around the edge and surrounded by vapour.

Help Spacelink

SPACELINK is seeking readers to assist with circulation and regular publishing. Roles include Editorial Typist, Publicity Editor, Technical Reviewers (with science/technology degrees), Translators (for various languages), and Agents. Expenses and retaining fees are offered.

UFO Nachricten '68 Translation

A note indicates that the report on "Giant Mushrooms in Argentina" is a translation from UFO NACHRICHTEN December '68 by D. Sarkar.

Historical Section: Was This the First Photograph of a UFO?

This section provides a translation of an article from "L'Astronomie", 1885, pages 347-50, concerning a "PASSAGE SUR LE DISQUE SOLAIRE D'UN ESSAIM DE CORPUSCULES, VU A L'OBSERVATOIRE DE ZACATECAS (MEXIQUE)" (Passage across the Sun of a Group of Small Objects Seen by the Zacatecas Observatory in Mexico).

The article describes observations made at the Zacatecas Observatory in Mexico, using an equatorial telescope. On August 12, 1883, at 8 o'clock in the morning, the observer noted a small brilliant object penetrating the field of the telescope and crossing the solar disc as a nearly circular shadow. This phenomenon repeated, and in the course of two hours, 283 objects were counted crossing the face of the sun. The paths indicated a West-Eastern movement. Some bodies appeared black and sombre when projected across the solar disc but luminous when leaving the sun. The intervals of crossing were variable, from a third of a second to a minute. The observer established the trajectory of these bodies by marking their entry and exit points on a drawing of the solar disc. Figure 118 is a reduction of this drawing.

Contact Section (Continued)

• Flying Saucer Left Behind Radioactive Radiation: A report from Saint Denis, Reunion Island, where a farmer claimed to have seen a 'flying saucer' on July 31st. Traces of radioactivity were found in the field and in the farmer's clothes. Civil defence investigators confirmed the radioactivity. The farmer described the object as greyish, about 5 metres in diameter and 2-3 metres high, with two transparent persons inside.
• Recent Report from North Queensland: Details are given of a "flying saucer nest" where a young Australian lady provided information about a flying disc landing in a sugar cane field. Three huge men emerged and collected sugar cane samples. The beings were described as bulky and shapeless, giving off a purple glow. The disc took off with a sound like bees buzzing, and the family's hair stood up as if "magnetised."

Looking Ahead: What's New?

• UFO and Space Convention: Scheduled for August 15-17, 1969, at Woburn Abbey, Bedfordshire, featuring personalities like Roy Thinnes and Patrick Troughton. Astronomy and science fiction groups are invited.
• Flying Saucers Here and Now: A series of 39 half-hour colour TV films being made by Cy Newman of NBC.TV, Chicago, potentially using the files of Frank Edwards.
• Saucer Film: Roy Benson and M.R.M. Productions are planning a saucer-fiction film based on the Hill's 'Interrupted Journey'.
• ATV Series: Associated Television (U.K.) is making a science fiction series called "UFO," with each episode costing $100,000 and produced by Gerry Anderson.
• New Book: Robert Chapman, Science Editor of the SUNDAY EXPRESS, has written "UNIDENTIFIED FLYING OBJECTS," examining UFO evidence from a scientific perspective.
• UFO Manual: Anthony Pace and Roger Stanway are planning a comprehensive UFO Manual, with contributions from eminent scientists and UFO authorities.
• Spacelink Material: The magazine acknowledges omitting interesting material due to space limitations and thanks contributors and translators.
• Cambridge Seminar: A seminar on "Investigation and Evaluation of UFO Reports" is being held at Cambridge University on February 22, 1969.

UFOS UNIDENTIFIED UNDENIABLE Advertisement

An advertisement for a 60,000-word illustrated report by two amateur astronomers, Roger H. Stanway & Anthony R. Pace, covering 70 different sightings with eyewitness accounts, drawings, photographs, maps, and graphs. It includes interviews with the Ministry of Defence, Police, and Air Traffic Controls. Testimonials from Gwyn Richards, Alan Massan, Professor James E. McDonald, and L.W. Akhurst are featured. The report is available from Newchapel Observatory for 14/- or $2.20.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SPACELINK revolve around UFO sightings, investigations, and the promotion of UFO research. The magazine actively encourages reader participation through research projects and contributions. There is a clear stance in favor of exploring UFO phenomena seriously, providing a platform for various reports and analyses, while also acknowledging the need for critical evaluation and scientific input. The editorial tone appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting evidence and accounts for readers to consider. The inclusion of historical cases, international reports, and technical advertisements suggests a comprehensive approach to the subject matter.

This issue of SPACELINK, dated January 1969, is the sixth issue under the 'Lionel's Litter' section and the first for the new year. It covers a range of topics from astronomical observations and historical aerial phenomena to scientific and geological warnings.

Astronomical Observations and Photographic Evidence

The issue begins with an account from Jose A. y Bonilla, Director of the Zacatecas Observatory in Mexico, detailing observations of a phenomenon involving bodies crossing the sun's disc on August 12th and 13th, 1897. The author, using a specially adapted telescope and photographic equipment, managed to capture images of these objects. He notes that while initially appearing round, closer examination of the photographs revealed some bodies to be of irregular shape. He also observed that these bodies appeared opaque when crossing the sun's disc, unlike the bright trails they sometimes produced. The phenomenon was invisible from other observatories, leading to speculation about its proximity to Earth and its considerable parallax.

The editor of L'ASTRONOMIE, while finding the observation interesting, suggests the bodies might be birds, insects, or dust, given the lack of observation elsewhere. However, the photograph shows an oval black object with thin trains, and the editor questions whether these could be higher forms of dust or indeed part of our atmosphere.

A 'SPACELINK Editor's Note' adds context about the difficulty of photography in 1883 and mentions records of birds flying at high altitudes, including lapwings at 8,500 feet and cranes at 15,000 feet, with a flock of geese reportedly flying over the Himalayas at 29,000 feet. The note humorously questions if the geese were using Boeing. It concludes by posing the question of whether these could be birds, insects, or dust, or if this was the 'FIRST PHOTOGRAPH OF A UFO'.

The 1897 Airship Flap Explained

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to explaining the '1897 Airship Flap' in the USA. This article, reprinted from BUFORA JOURNAL, attributes the sightings to Edward J. Pennington, an inventor with a history of patents and entrepreneurial ventures. The article details Pennington's background, his numerous patents (including an electric igniter, considered the first sparking plug), and his ventures in manufacturing. It highlights his secretive nature and his habit of shifting focus between ideas. The article suggests that Pennington's airship design, patented in December 1895, closely matched witness descriptions of the 1897 sightings. The design is described as a large airship, approximately 140 ft long, with accommodation for crew and passengers, large batteries, and airscrews for propulsion. The article also discusses the possibility of a petrol-electric or diesel-electric propulsion system.

Several sightings are detailed, including one by Captain Hooton on April 20th, 1897, who described hearing a 'pumping noise' and seeing the airship take off. The 'pumping noise' is noted as a recurring detail in other sightings, similar to that of a milk separator, linking it to Thomas Kane, with whom Pennington collaborated.

The article traces a possible itinerary for Pennington's airship in 1897, including flights from Kansas to Iowa and back, suggesting speeds and durations consistent with early airship capabilities. It also mentions encounters with law officers and a young woman.

The author, Lionel Beer, concludes that while the airship's itinerary was not miraculous, its occurrence in America, where such feats were unprecedented, likely caused confusion and fear. He speculates that Pennington may have abandoned the project due to the airship's severe limitations and the more promising field of motor cars.

Historical Context and Expert Opinions

Charles H. Gibbs-Smith, an aeronautical historian, is quoted stating that in the periods before 1910, the only airborne vehicles carrying passengers in North America were free-flying balloons, and no dirigible or heavier-than-air flying machines were operational.

The 'SPACELINK' editor acknowledges the possibility of genuine UFO activity in 1897 but favors the obvious explanation, suggesting that if the craft was a flying saucer, its occupants might have presented themselves in contemporary terms to avoid alarming witnesses.

Other News and Reports

Flat Earth Society: The article notes that the Flat Earth Society, led by Samuel Shenton, has 'well over a hundred members'. Despite initial beliefs challenged by the Apollo 8 mission, they have conceded that the Earth is round, though they describe its orbit as circular, like flying around the rim of a saucer.

Astronaut Health: Dr. O. H. Gauer presented findings at the 'International Symposium on Basic Environmental Problems of Man in Space' in Geneva, stating that astronauts tend to experience circulatory collapse upon returning to Earth due to physiological changes during space duty. Artificial gravity systems are suggested as a potential solution.

Japanese Earthquake Warning: Dr. Koji Kimura, a leading Japanese seismologist, warned of a potential powerful earthquake in Japan within a year, coinciding with the 45th anniversary of the Great Kanto quake. Calculations indicated a build-up of seismic energy for a magnitude 8.2 quake.

John Keel Rumors: Journalist John Keel is reportedly publicizing rumors that he is an 'android', which the magazine suggests is a journalistic gimmick to maintain public attention.

Loch Ness Monster: Sonar cameras have reportedly photographed objects in Loch Ness, with a Birmingham University research team analyzing the data. While inconclusive, the data suggests objects moving swiftly, with one appearing to be about 20 feet long and 'swimming' at 15 knots, diving 450 feet. Another 'blob' was observed rising from the bottom. These findings are consistent with the behavior expected of air-breathing aquatic animals.

X-15 Rocket Plane: The X-15 rocket plane trials have concluded after 199 flights, reaching speeds of up to 4520 miles per hour and altitudes of 67 miles. Pilots reported seeing UFOs several times during high-altitude tests.

Book Reviews and Reference Section

The magazine includes a comprehensive 'Reference Section' with reviews of various UFO-related books and publications. These include:

• SEQUEL TO SCORITON by Norman T. Oliver: A review by Lionel Beer, praising its thoroughness and fair assessment of contactee claims.
• FLYING SAUCERS OVER THE WEST by A. W. Bearne: Reviewed by Lionel Beer, focusing on local sightings in Devon.
• FLYING SAUCER OCCUPANTS by Coral and Jim Lorenzen: Reviewed by Kathleen Smith, who notes its detailed research into 'occupant' reports and controversial cases.
• THE FLYING SAUCER READER edited by Jay David: Described as a concise paperback compiling extracts from various UFO literature.
• NEW UFO BREAKTHROUGH by Brad Steiger & Joan Whritenour: Reviewed by Doreen Whitaker, highlighting its controversial content and theories.
• WARNINGS FROM FLYING FRIENDS by Arthur Shuttlewood: Reviewed by Doreen Whitaker, discussing sightings and alleged messages from extraterrestrials.

Additionally, there is a list of 'BOOKS FOR SALE' and 'MAGAZINES FOR SALE', providing details and prices for numerous UFO publications, including 'Flying Saucer Review', 'The Humanoids', 'Spacelink', and various national UFO journals.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of unexplained aerial phenomena, historical accounts of early aviation and UFO sightings, and the scientific and geological concerns of the time. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, presenting various theories and evidence while encouraging readers to form their own conclusions. There is a clear emphasis on factual reporting and a willingness to explore even unconventional ideas, as seen in the detailed analysis of the 1897 airship flap and the discussion of the Loch Ness Monster.

Title: SPACELINK
Issue: 32
Date: 28 Dec. 1968 - 11 Jan. 1969
Publisher: DAILY MAIL

This issue of SPACELINK focuses on two main areas: a significant UFO exhibition and a specific UFO sighting.

The New Year Show UFO Exhibition

The magazine details the "New Year Show" held at the Empire Hall, Olympia, from December 28, 1968, to January 11, 1969, organized by the DAILY MAIL. The article highlights the efforts made by BUFORA (British UFO Research Association) to promote interest in ufology through displays, which have historically been rare. A previous exception mentioned is the display by SIGAP material in GAMMONS, Guildford, in 1967, and a one-day show by the Isle of Wight Society in Newport in 1967, which attracted 400 people.

Ivor Lewis of the DAILY MAIL Exhibitions section initiated discussions for the exhibition in 1967, with BUFORA colleagues agreeing to participate. A meeting was held at the DAILY MAIL offices on August 7, 1968. Norman Oliver contributed copy for the show's catalogue. Arnold West refurbished the BUFORA van and created a screen for its display. The van was equipped with various items, including binoculars, telescopes, an astro-compass, a planetarium, lights, an ELF radio receiver, magnetic detectors, maps, and a geiger-counter.

Ivar Mackay (chairman) and Richard Farrow (report co-ordinator) assisted with the script for the stand's walls, which included photos, statistics, a historical section, news cuttings, and paintings by SIGAP member Dan Butcher. Stephen Smith (research director) provided material from the research department, including the Angus Brooks case. Richard Farrow designed a diorama model, an attractive blue plastic structure lit from within, which simulated a typical sighting sequence with sound effects. The sequence involved the sound fading and the UFO vanishing, achieved using the Pepy's Ghost principle and a large sheet of glass at a 45° angle.

Challenges were encountered, such as captions and photos being too small and last-minute alterations to the script. The diorama also experienced technical difficulties and was only ready just in time for the opening. Mike Holt (honorary secretary) coordinated staffing, and a large team of volunteers managed the information desk. Peter Johnson's UFO detector garnered considerable interest. Ivar Mackay was noted for his hard work before and during the show.

During peak times, the stand saw up to 1500 people per hour. In total, 130,000 people visited the show. The article notes a decline in attendance compared to the previous year's Schoolboys Exhibition (230,000 visitors), attributing it partly to a change in the show's name. Despite the overall attendance drop, BUFORA gained about 90 new members and raised awareness about UFOs among many visitors. The organization was also able to retain the display material for future use. The article expresses gratitude to the DAILY MAIL for enabling the promotion of ufology at a major UK exhibition.

Dr. Geoffrey Doel is pictured demonstrating Peter Johnson's magnetic "UFO detector," and the BUFORA field van with its equipment is also shown.

Photo Credits: Omar Fowler (Chairman - SIGAP).

UFO Over Kowloon Sighting

The second main article details a UFO photograph purportedly taken in Kowloon, Hong Kong, in 1961 by Anthony De Salvo, who was then 22 and serving as a radar operator with the Royal Air Force. De Salvo recalls traveling with five other men in an open R.A.F. truck between 8 and 9 in the morning.

The only supporting evidence for the sighting is the negative, now held by BUFORA. De Salvo states that the object was first observed towards the North, at an elevation of about 15°, directly over TAI MO SHAN, a mountain approximately 8 miles south of the Chinese border. The object appeared as a sharply defined star near the radome (radar housing), as depicted in the accompanying photograph. De Salvo could not distinguish the object's shape or size with the naked eye. His report indicated the object was seen against a bright blue sky with the sun shining brightly, although the photograph shows some cloud effects, suggesting the image may have degraded over time. The weather was warm and dry. The object was described as hovering and possibly rotating, with variations in its brightness.

Upon reaching his equipment, De Salvo attempted to locate the object on height finding radar but was unsuccessful. He concluded that the object was either very close or above 80,000 feet. The article points out the security implications of a UFO being undetected by long-range radar, which could leave a nation vulnerable to surprise aircraft or rocket attacks.

Anthony De Salvo, now a professional freelance photographer, served in the R.A.F. from 1957-62 and, as far as is known, has not attempted to profit from the photograph.

• Technical Details:
• Film: Agfa IF
• Camera: 35mm Pentax, with standard lens.
• Special features: Yellow filter used.
• Exposure: 1/500th of a second at f4.
• Location: An open lorry moving at about 30 to 40 miles an hour.

Comments:
Dr. Geoffrey Doel, who manages BUFORA's photographic collection, suggested the object might be a kite. However, the location and lack of wind make this unlikely. A "cynical friend" suggested it could be an insect on a window. A subtle detail, not immediately apparent in reproductions, is a faint white cross of light situated at the center of the object.

The editor invites readers to share any information about the New Territories or provide comments on the sighting.

Photo Credit: Anthony De Salvo.

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Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes ufology by reporting on exhibitions and significant sightings. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into UFO phenomena, providing detailed accounts of events, technical data, and organizational efforts within the UFO community. There is an emphasis on evidence, such as photographs and radar data, while also acknowledging the challenges in interpreting such evidence. The magazine also serves as a platform for public engagement, inviting reader contributions and offering promotional materials like stickers.