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Spacelink 1970 vol 6 no 3

Summary & Cover Spacelink (Lionel Beer)

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Overview

Title: SPACELINK Issue: VOLUME 6 NUMBER 3 Date: JUNE 1970 Publisher: Lionel Beer Country: United Kingdom Price: 3/6

Magazine Overview

Title: SPACELINK
Issue: VOLUME 6 NUMBER 3
Date: JUNE 1970
Publisher: Lionel Beer
Country: United Kingdom
Price: 3/6

This issue of SPACELINK, a magazine specializing in World UFO News and Flying Saucer Scene, focuses on the "1897 Controversy" on its cover, suggesting that sightings from that year might have been misidentified dirigibles. The magazine features a range of articles, including UFO reports from various locations, analysis of official government stances on UFOs, and discussions of scientific symposia.

Cover Story: The 1897 Controversy

The cover illustration depicts an airship, linking it to the "1897 Controversy." The accompanying text on page 20 (referenced on the cover) likely explores the theory that American sightings from 1897 were primarily due to man-made dirigibles, challenging the extraterrestrial hypothesis for these early reports.

UFOs Over Paris

This section details two unusual photographs taken by Mr. Chalois in Paris on July 27 or 28, 1965. The object, described as metallic and greyish, was observed to be motionless, then rotate, and disappear at incredible speed. The article includes estimations of the object's size (approximately 50 meters in diameter) and altitude (390 meters), and notes a 'spur' that appeared during its rotation. The report is condensed from 'LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT'.

Odd Lights Over Canadian Naval Base

Reported by Hermanus Voorsluys, this incident describes a strange orange light observed over Esquimalt harbour in September 1968. The light moved, turned fiery red-orange, and dropped what appeared to be waste material before extinguishing. Subsequent sightings led to a coordinated effort to photograph the phenomenon, with pictures taken on September 29.

Ministry of Defence (Air) UFO Statistics

This section presents a letter from the Ministry of Defence (MoD) dated May 8, 1970, addressed to Mr. Beer. The MoD states its straightforward attitude towards UFO reports, investigating them for air defence implications. They examine reports with open minds, utilizing scientific resources, and have found no evidence that UFOs represent an air defence threat to the UK. The letter includes an analysis of UFO reports received from January 1, 1959, to December 31, 1969. The table shows a total of 1316 reports, with the majority attributed to aircraft (441), followed by satellites/debris (313), celestial objects (123), balloons (111), meteorological phenomena (94), and miscellaneous (110). Only 124 reports remained unexplained due to insufficient information, and none suggested they were different from identified incidents.

The MoD's stance is that while they cannot make positive identifications in unexplained cases, there is nothing to suggest they are anything other than mundane events. Correspondence regarding UFO reports is considered private, and full details cannot be released publicly, with records generally accessible after thirty years.

Are We Prepared for Invasion?

This article reviews a piece from THE OBSERVER (June 15, 1969) that questioned authorities about preparedness for an interplanetary attack. The Russian and American Embassies offered cautious or non-committal responses, while the Ministry of Defence spokesman was fatalistic, stating no preparations were made and that atomic rays or similar advanced weaponry would be difficult to counter. The article also notes that governments with UFO departments are limited, often underfunded, and conduct minimal investigations, with staff often working part-time.

AAAS Symposium

This report covers a two-day symposium on the scientific merits of the UFO phenomenon held in Boston, Massachusetts, from December 26-31, 1969, organized by Dr. Thornton Page. Fourteen papers were presented by leading scientists covering various aspects of UFO research, including sociological, psychological, and scientific interpretations. Notable speakers included Dr. J. Allen Hynek, who emphasized the symposium's role in informing the scientific community about the UFO problem and presenting valid viewpoints, and Dr. James E. McDonald. The symposium aimed to demonstrate the application of scientific methodology to UFO research. A summary of the Lakenheath case (August 1956) is highlighted as a particularly puzzling radar-visual case.

Project Blue Book Closes

This article announces the termination of Project Blue Book, the US Air Force's UFO investigation program, after 22 years and 12,618 sightings. Air Force Secretary Robert C. Seamans Jr. stated the program could not be justified on grounds of national security or science. The article includes the official letter explaining the decision, which concluded that no reported UFO had indicated a threat to national security, nor had any evidence emerged to suggest technological developments beyond current scientific knowledge or extraterrestrial vehicles. Project Blue Book records have been transferred to the Air Force Archives.

Mini Flying Saucers?

This section presents five reports of 'mini UFOs' – small, round objects – collected over a 15-month period. These include sightings from Charlottenlund (Denmark), Frederiksstad (Norway), and Slemmestad (Sweden), describing objects that were small, luminous, and exhibited unusual movement. A case from Manaus, Brazil, describes two bright objects.

Other Sections

The issue also includes a section on "THOSE WOMEN DRIVERS!" concerning a traffic accident in Canada, and lists various consultants, contributors, and advertisers. It also features details about the British Unidentified Flying Object Research Association (BUFORA) and the Flying Saucer Review magazine.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a serious, scientific approach to UFO research, encouraging detailed investigation and critical analysis. It highlights official investigations and their conclusions, such as the closure of Project Blue Book and the MoD's findings, while also presenting eyewitness accounts and photographic evidence. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, seeking to understand the UFO phenomenon through rigorous methodology and data collection, while acknowledging the limitations and biases of various scientific disciplines. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between credible reports and those that are easily explained or are hoaxes. The magazine also seems to value the contributions of amateurs and independent researchers.

Title: SPACELINK
Issue: Vol 7 No 4
Date: July 1970
Publisher: SPACELINK
Country: United Kingdom
Price: 2/-

This issue of SPACELINK delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, historical cases, and the organizations involved in their study. It features detailed accounts of sightings, discussions on the nature of UFOs, and updates on the UFO research community.

Article: Is it a UFO, lens flare, comet, meteor, firework or mental aberration...?

This section reports on the return of Apollo 13, noting that the lunar module appeared to be exploding on re-entry. It then transitions to a UFO sighting near Fiji, where a returning Apollo 13 spacecraft was photographed from an airliner at 35,000 feet. The article describes the lunar module (centre) appearing to explode. It then shifts focus to a separate sighting involving two individuals, Nicodemos and another unnamed person, who encountered two small, bright, silvery-blue light objects. One object touched Nicodemos' forehead, leaving a mark in the shape of a twisted 'M' that disappeared after three weeks. The objects were described as circular, revolving, and moving in quick, circular motions. The larger object was approximately 40 cm in diameter, and the smaller one was 30 cm. Both individuals experienced similar dreams the following night. The source is cited as UFO NACHRICHTEN No.161, translated by Janet Gregory.

Article: And one in England...

This piece details a UFO sighting by Alastair Mackenzie, a Lieutenant Commander in the Royal Navy, living in Bournemouth. He reported his family's sighting in the Bournemouth Echo on 21 October 1969. The object was described as 6-9 inches in diameter, translucent, greyish-white in colour, and pulsating at its centre. It was seen hovering at a height of about 30 feet and 8 feet from the south-facing wall of his hotel. The object moved off slowly, then very rapidly, in a southerly direction. Mackenzie and his family swore the description was true and not an illusion. The report notes that Mackenzie's letter was prompted by an article titled 'When a flying jellyfish dropped in for coffee'.

Article: strange creatures at arc-sous-cicon

This article recounts an incident that occurred on 17 July 1967, near the village of Arc-sous-Cicon in France. A group of children, including Patricia Despoix (6), Remy Ravier (10), Hubert and Michelle Bailly (10 and 12), reported seeing three small, black, creature-like beings. The beings were described as talking in a musical way. Later that day, Joëlle Ravier (15), accompanied by friends Marie-Reine Mainot (13), Monique Bailly (15), and Hubert Bailly, investigated. Joëlle described seeing a black creature about 1.10 metres tall, with a bulky build, and a head that appeared covered by a black hood or mask. The creature moved very fast, running along a crevasse with large jumps. It wore a close-fitting garment with material flapping around its bottom. The creature disappeared into a hedge. The girls noted it seemed to be wearing a loose-fitting garment. The interviewers showed Joëlle a drawing from 'The Humanoids' special issue of Flying Saucer Review, but she stated there was no resemblance. The following day, 18 July, a group found an area of 3-4 metres on the plateau where the grass appeared burnt, and a peculiar smell was noticeable. Small footprints were also found leading towards the wood. On 19 July, a glow was observed in the nearby wood. The article includes a map illustrating the location of the events.

Article: NURSE SEES UFO AND OCCUPANTS

This section reports on a sighting by Canadian nurse Mrs Doreen Kendall, which occurred early on New Year's Day, according to the Victoria Times. She observed a circular object hovering about 40 feet away from the Cowichan District Hospital. The object was described as silvery, metallic, with a 'necklace of lights' around the middle. Inside the dome, two figures with 'strikingly good-looking physiques' were seen, clothed in tight-fitting uniforms. One stood before a glowing instrument panel, while the other, shorter, stood behind. Both had stools. The second man's face was obscured by darkish fabric. He touched the pilot, whose hand was flesh-toned and humanlike. The pilot manipulated a control lever, causing the craft to tilt. Six other people witnessed the object circle and disappear northwards.

Article: ARE WE ALONE IN SPACE?

This is a review of the book "Other Worlds Than Ours" by C. Maxwell Cade, published by Pitman Publishing. The book is described as containing fascinating material on space probes, interstellar conversations, artificial biospheres, and robot races, providing a basis for science fiction. It also addresses serious problems such as the development of mechanical intelligence and the need to reconcile science and metaphysics. The text is illustrated with line drawings and astronomical photographs.

Article: "VIENNA ROLL" FROM THE SKY

This article, reprinted from the BELGRADE NEWS of 12 January 1970, details a strange object falling from the sky on 18 February 1969, near Sremcica, Yugoslavia. Mr Sekula Medenica, a restaurant proprietor, heard a loud explosion, saw a white flash of light, and heard a whistling sound. He discovered a small crater and charred trees. He dug out a small object weighing 2,100 grammes. After keeping it for nearly 10 months, the secret leaked to the press. A scientist examined the object, which measured 20-21 centimetres in length and weighed 1,900 grammes. It was dark grey with a rib structure and light cream colour between the ribs. Geiger-counter readings were negative. Initial theories suggested a meteorite, but laboratory tests showed the object was made of magnesium, leading to the conclusion that it could not have survived atmospheric entry and must have been made on Earth. The article includes a photograph of Sekula Medenica showing the object to Dr. Eng. Milorad Teofilovic and Magistral Eng. Cvetko Markov.

Article: UFOs sent by BUDDHA?

This section describes a spiritual experience reported by John Blofeld, who visited a tower on the Sacred Mountain of Wu T'ai in northern China. From the tower, he witnessed 'innumerable balls of fire' floating majestically past. He described them as appearing like fluffy woollen balls, moving at a stately pace. The extract is from 'The Wheel of Life' by John Blofeld, reprinted by kind permission of Rider & Company.

Editorial: BEWARE OF THE CHARMERS

This editorial by L.B. discusses the division within the ufology community into two groups: those who readily accept evidence and those who scrutinize it. The author warns against 'ufologists' who may distort or invent history, and criticizes speakers who provide garbled information or evasive answers. The editorial also touches upon the manipulative techniques of some speakers and the role of chairmen in controlling discussions. It poses a question to the reader: whether they attend lectures to be 'charmed and spoon-fed' or to use their 'personal powers of discrimination'.

SPACELINK SYMPOSIUM Announcement

An announcement for a SPACELINK Symposium on 'Practical UFO Research' to be held on Saturday, 18th July 1970, at the Kensington Central Library, London. The event aims to provide an opportunity for SPACELINK staff, consultants, and readers to meet and exchange views. The symposium includes short papers on topics such as 'Defining Ufology', 'Detection', 'History', 'Contact', 'The Paranormal', and 'BUFORA Research'. The chairman for the first session is Roger Stanway, and for the second session, Lionel Beer. Tickets are priced at 8/- including light tea. Details for remittance and S.A.E. are provided to Miss Christine Henning.

Article: VISITORS FROM OUTER SPACE

This article, reprinted from the monthly digest SPUTNIK No 1, explores the concept of time and its potential relativity, drawing parallels between ancient beliefs and modern scientific theories. It discusses the ancient idea that time passes differently in heaven than on Earth, citing examples from religious texts and folklore. The article mentions Albert Einstein's discovery regarding time in motion at near-light velocity and its implications for science fiction. It also examines the interpretation of the 'House of the Lord' in religious texts, suggesting it could be interpreted as a spaceship. The author posits that ancient temples might have been designed based on observations of such craft. The article references apocryphal stories of Enoch and Isaiah, and the legends of the Maya people, all of which are interpreted through a 'space' angle. It concludes by stating that science will increasingly help interpret ancient puzzles and that the 'space comers' hypothesis has gained support due to space travel.

Article: A LINE OF HUGE DISCS PASSED OVER LONDON IN 1944

This personal account by H.S. Harris describes a sighting of large, luminous pink discs over London in 1944. The author, a Fleet Street journalist, recounts being alerted to the possibility of 'secret weapons' and making a point to observe any alerts. He describes seeing a red object approaching, which later resolved into five or six large, flat, pink discs flying in line astern. He estimates their size, height, speed (200-300 m.p.h.), and altitude (300-500 ft). The objects passed over Wembley Stadium and disappeared northwards. Harris concludes that the objects were UFOs, as there was no official action taken, and he believed that any official connection would have necessitated an alert. He also notes that the first 'doodlebug' (V-1 flying bomb) appeared weeks later.

Article: THE 1897 CONTROVERSY

This article by Kenneth Lloyd Larson analyzes the 1896-1897 UFO wave in America, suggesting it was the result of an intelligent pattern. It examines newspaper reports from San Francisco, Oakland, and Red Bluff, describing an 'egg-shaped' object moving at high speed. The author calculates a velocity of around 1,000 miles per hour, far exceeding contemporary aircraft capabilities. The article also details a sighting in Sistersville, West Virginia, of a tube-like object with lights, and a similar report from Yates Center, Kansas, on the same day. The distance between these locations suggests a high velocity for the object. The author dismisses the dirigible theory due to the required travel times and highlights the numerous claims of inventors at the time. He compares the estimated velocity to that reported by Kenneth Arnold in 1947. Another case mentioned is that of farmer Daniel Gray, who found a newspaper dated 5 October 1896, suggesting a temporal anomaly.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SPACELINK include the reporting of UFO sightings and encounters with alleged occupants, the investigation of historical UFO cases, and the activities of UFO research organizations. The magazine also touches upon the intersection of science and speculation regarding extraterrestrial life and the interpretation of ancient texts and legends in the context of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance, as expressed in 'Beware of the Charmers,' advocates for critical scrutiny of evidence within the ufology community and warns against uncritical acceptance of claims or manipulative presentation by speakers.

Title: SPACELINK
Issue: NUMBER NINE
Date: JUNE 1970
Type: Magazine

This issue of SPACELINK, dated June 1970, features a collection of articles and reviews focusing on historical UFO phenomena, particularly the 1897 airship flap, alongside discussions on other unusual occurrences and book reviews.

The 1897 Airship Flap: A Detailed Investigation

The central theme of this issue revolves around the 1897 airship sightings, building upon an article by Kenneth Lloyd Larson in the October 1968 issue of SPACELINK. The current issue includes correspondence and analysis that aims to clarify lingering mysteries surrounding these events.

Kenneth Lloyd Larson's Article and Correspondence:

Kenneth Lloyd Larson, Director of VICTORY RESEARCH, contributed an article that is presented as a foundation for further discussion. The magazine highlights correspondence related to this topic, including a letter from Dr. Geoffrey Doel and further insights from Bernard O'Connor.

Bernard O'Connor's Analysis:

Bernard O'Connor, from Northampton, Pennsylvania, provides a detailed analysis of Dr. Doel's article, calling it an "excellent job of research and reporting that cleared up an age-old mystery." However, he suggests it may have inadvertently solved another mystery. O'Connor quotes Dr. Doel regarding the uncertain arrival of the airship at Yates Center, Kansas, on April 19th, and the unfortunate incident of a young heifer becoming entangled in the mooring rope.

O'Connor then references Frank Edwards' book 'FLYING SAUCERS SERIOUS BUSINESS', detailing the case of farmer Alexander Hamilton of Le Roy, Kansas, who reported his cow being abducted by occupants of an 'airship'. Hamilton stated his cow was "appropriated" on Monday, April 19, 1897, and disappeared to the north-west, yet the remains of the heifer were found about four miles west of Le Roy. O'Connor offers a step-by-step explanation:

1. Pennington (presumably the airship's operator) was traveling south-west from Mt. Carroll to Yates Center, bypassing Le Roy.
2. The journey took a week, from April 10th to April 19th, 1897.
3. Le Roy is 15 miles north-east of Yates Center.
4. O'Connor posits that the airship's occupants consumed the heifer, disposing of the carcass from the ship while completing an arc that allowed them to set course for Yates.

Dr. Geoffrey Doel's Perspective:

Dr. Doel comments on an "egg-shaped object" reported in the San Francisco area in November 1896, noting its lack of wings or propeller and a speed of up to 1,000 m.p.h. He distinguishes this from the 1897 airship sightings, suggesting it was a different type of UFO. However, he finds the sighting reported from Sistersville on April 19, 1897, to be directly related to Pennington's airship. Dr. Doel calculates that the airship could have traveled the 800 miles from Sistersville to Le Roy by 10:30 p.m. on April 19th, with 17 hours of flying time at 47 m.p.h., especially with a following wind. He expresses gratitude to Mr. Larson for information that helped complete the airship's itinerary.

Dr. Doel also acknowledges Bernard O'Connor's contribution in tracing the airship's movements and the discovery of the heifer's remains. He notes that the remains were found a few miles away the next day by Mr. Link Thomas, who initially thought someone had butchered a stolen beast. Dr. Doel concludes that Pennington's crew intentionally abducted the heifer, rather than it being an accidental entanglement.

Dr. Doel mentions a claim by Pennington himself that he built and flew an airship, which he sees as consolidation of the theory, despite Pennington's reputation for extravagant assertions.

Other Historical Sightings and Reports:

The 1852 Giffard Balloon: An illustration and description of Henri Giffard's steam-powered balloon that flew above Paris on September 24, 1852, achieving a speed of 6 mph.

Sioux City Sighting (April 11, 1897): R.H. Butler claims to have seen a "cigar-shaped balloon" about 35 feet long and 10-12 feet thick, lying on its side with a car underneath similar to a Ferris Wheel car. Lights shone through its windows. The craft reportedly ascended at an angle of 40-45 degrees. The general opinion among his neighbors was that Butler had been drinking.

Omaha Sighting (March 29, 1897): Dr. Doel notes that the airship seen 15 miles north of Sioux City on March 28, 1897, by a gent who mistook an anchor for a seat, could have reached Omaha by the next evening.

Gravel River, Ontario Sighting (September 14, 1897): C.W. Spencer and Thomas Hay of the Canadian Pacific Railway reported seeing "A something in the sky" with a large white light, then a red and white light. When the object turned, the red light became blue, revealing a row of four lights terminated by a circle or ellipse of a dozen lights, with a dark body in the midst. The observers concluded it was an airship, with the writer speculating about an inventor achieving air navigation.

Other Reports and Notes:

  • "L'Esperance" Dirigible: An immense dirigible constructed by Delamarne flew on several occasions during 1865-6.
  • Ball Lightning Theories: Soviet physicists Leon Biberman and Dr. Henri Norman theorized that ball lightning is a sharply cooled plasma, not a gas, governed by quantum physics.
  • Floating Island Incident: A report from the Boston SUNDAY GLOBE about a "floating island" in the Caribbean that sank before scientists could reach it.
  • Fortean Phenomenon: Stephen Davenport found a pink locust in a tin of peaches.
  • Leaning Tower of Big Ben: The Ministry of Public Building and Works confirmed that the tower was nearly 10 inches out of perpendicular.
  • Life with the Lions: Arthur Shuttlewood wrote about Bob Strong being mauled by a lion at the Marquess of Bath's Longleat Lion Reserve.
  • Microscopic UFOs: Researchers found strange polyhedron-shaped particles, identified as brochosomes (excretary products of leafhoppers), in air pollution samples.
  • Dinosaur Eggs: A joint Soviet-Mongolian expedition found tons of dinosaur eggs in the Gobi desert.

Book and Magazine Reviews

The issue includes a "Reference Section" with reviews of various books and magazines related to UFOs and related topics:

  • BOOKS FOR SALE: A comprehensive list of books available for purchase, categorized by subject (e.g., Books by Scientists, Flying Saucer Occupants, Contact Material) with prices and brief descriptions.
  • Notable titles include "FLYING SAUCERS FROM OUTER SPACE" by Donald E. Keyhoe, "UFOS? YES!" by David Saunders & Roger Harkins, "CHARIOTS OF THE GODS?" by Erich von Daniken, and "INSIDE THE FLYING SAUCERS" by George Adamski.
  • MAGAZINES FOR SALE: A list of UFO magazines available, including "FLYING SAUCER REVIEW", "SAUCERS SPACE & SCIENCE", and "AUSTRALIAN FLYING SAUCER REVIEW", with details on subscription costs and back issues.
  • Magazines ceased publication: A list of magazines that have ceased publication, such as "APRG REPORTER", "CAPRI NEWS", and "SAUCER SCOOP".
  • Book Reviews: Detailed reviews of several books:
  • "FLYING SAUCERS FROM OUTER SPACE" by Donald E. Keyhoe.
  • "MYSTERIES OF THE SKIES: UFOS IN PERSPECTIVE" by Gordon I R Lore and Harold H Deneault.
  • "THE INTELLIGENT MAN'S GUIDE TO FLYING SAUCERS" by T.M. Wright.
  • "FLYING SAUCERS, HOAX OR REALITY?" by L Jerome Stanton.
  • "CHARIOTS OF THE GODS?" by Erich von Däniken.
  • "UFO PERCIPIENTS" edited by Charles Bowen.
  • "A REFERENCE BOOK OF UFO SOUNDS" compiled by Dan Butcher.
  • 1969 PUBLICATIONS CARRYING ARTICLES OF NOTE: A list of articles published in various journals in 1969, including "BULLETIN OF THE ATOMIC SCIENTISTS" and "SAGA".
  • 1970 MAGAZINES CARRYING ARTICLES OF INTEREST: A list of articles published in magazines in 1970, such as "ARGOSY" and "FATE".

Reference Section: 1970 Calendar and Coming Events

This section provides a calendar of UFO-related meetings and lectures scheduled from July to December 1970, organized by location (e.g., Manchester, London, Guildford, Watford, Andover) and date. It also includes contact information for organizers and a disclaimer regarding responsibility for cancellations or changes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are historical UFO cases, particularly the 1897 airship flap, and the ongoing effort to document and analyze UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry, aiming to present factual accounts and reasoned analysis, while also acknowledging the speculative nature of the subject. The inclusion of book reviews and a calendar of events suggests a commitment to informing and engaging the ufological community.

This issue of "VISION OF TOMORROW" features a prominent cover story titled "Odd Lights Over Naval Base," detailing a series of unexplained aerial phenomena (UAP) sightings near a naval base in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. The magazine is described as Britain's only quality SF monthly, offering contributions from famous science fiction authors and lavishly illustrated stories. Each issue includes a full-page color painting of space scenes.

Odd Lights Over Naval Base

The main article, condensed from John Magor's "CANADIAN UFO REPORT No. 5," recounts the experiences of witnesses Reginald Neal, a retired police officer, and Voorsluys. They reported observing a strange light that exhibited remarkable characteristics: it changed course, moved at various speeds, altered its color from blue-white to deep orange and then deep red, and remained visible for at least 15 minutes, hovering and moving about. This duration far exceeded that of typical signal or illumination flares.

Reginald Neal managed to photograph the object. A Defence Research official, after interviewing Neal three times and Voorsluys twice, described Neal's photograph as "the best UFO shot" they had ever seen, implying the experience was not isolated. However, the final analysis of four photos sent to the National Research Council in Ottawa yielded an inconclusive result. An official stated they were unable to reach a definite conclusion, suggesting the detail in the object might be due to slight camera motion rather than true detail, and that other images could be stars or lights on the horizon. They proposed the photographed object was a point source of light, possibly a flare, an experimental balloon with a light, or an experimental aircraft.

The witnesses, however, asserted that no balloon or flare was present in the vicinity at the time of their sighting. They noted that a lighted balloon released by the Sydney weather office occurred at least 45 minutes after their observation. While signal flares from the US Coast Guard at Port Angeles, Washington, are visible, they have a limited height and range. Illumination flares dropped from aircraft at 3,000 feet are visible up to 50 miles but last only three minutes, significantly less than the observed object's 15-minute duration. The witnesses also emphasized that the object did not appear to be dropping and its hovering and erratic movements were inconsistent with a parachute.

Further corroboration came from James R. McLean, a commercial aircraft pilot. He reported seeing a glowing object over Victoria during the same period, which he could not explain. His description matched that of Voorsluys and Neal, although he was unaware of their sightings at the time.

The article includes details about Neal's photographic setup: an Exakta SLR camera with a 135 mm lens and Dyna-chrome ASA 25 film, with a setting of f3 and an exposure of 11 seconds. The accompanying photo caption describes a family of UFOs over the navy base near Victoria, with Reginald Neal obtaining the shot during one of several sightings.

Magazine Promotion

The second page features an advertisement for "VISION OF TOMORROW," highlighting its status as "Britain's only quality SFmonthly." It promotes regular contributions from renowned SF authors such as John Brunner, Bob Shaw, E. C. Tubb, and Ken Bulmer, with each story lavishly illustrated. The magazine is available monthly at newsagents and bookstalls everywhere and is priced at 5s. It also advertises exclusive full-page color paintings of planets and outer space by famous artists.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue leans heavily into the realm of unexplained aerial phenomena, presenting a detailed case study of a UAP sighting with witness testimony, photographic evidence, and official analysis. The editorial stance appears to favor presenting such accounts, even if official conclusions are inconclusive or skeptical. The magazine also actively promotes its science fiction content, suggesting an interest in the intersection of speculative fiction and real-world mysteries. The inclusion of a specific issue number (No. 5) and publisher details indicates it is part of a series, likely focusing on UFO/UAP reports and science fiction.