Spacelink 1971 vol 6 no 4

Magazine Overview

SPACELINK, Volume 6, Number 4, published in April 1971, is an independent magazine specializing in World UFO News and Flying Saucer Scene. It is edited by Lionel Beer and features a cover illustration of a 'mechanimal' with the question 'MECHANIMALS?' posed, referencing an item on page 17. The magazine is priced at 20p and distributed in Australia, Canada, and the United States.

Strange Apparitions in Cairo

This section details follow-up reports from the July 1968 issue of SPACELINK regarding an apparition of the veiled Virgin Mary above a Cairo church. Newspaper reports from early 1970 indicate the 'visions' were still appearing. The phenomenon was described as being preceded by mysterious lights, sometimes a globe of light, or flashes of lightning. Bird-like creatures, larger than pigeons, were also reported, gliding without flapping wings and emitting light. These events attracted large audiences, with up to 100,000 people gathering. Despite detailed descriptions of the figure (sometimes wearing a crown, holding an olive branch, or the Christ Child), photographs remained unclear, showing only a vague human shape. A similar case from Spain in early 1970 involved the Archbishop of Seville banning pilgrimages due to claims of visions of the Virgin Mary, Jesus, and the Holy Father, which he attributed to 'collective hysteria of a superstitious nature.' The article notes the irony of established religious leaders belittling such phenomena.

Letters

This section features correspondence from readers. Peter Johnston praises the magazine's quality and value. Gerald Lovell notes the magazine's evolution into a professional publication. Dr. J. Allen Hynek expresses his impression of the magazine. Gérard Lebat, Director General of Groupe d'Études des Objets Spatiaux de France, congratulates the team on the luxurious and interesting review. John Simpson proposes the 'Problem of Coincidences,' suggesting a relationship between unexplained events, sea serpent sightings, influenza epidemics, meteorological disasters, and Abominable Snowman sightings, hinting at UFO occupants using Earth for experimental purposes. He also questions the idea of UFOs eliminating humanity, suggesting they have been visiting for centuries without hostile intent.

The 1897 Controversy

This article delves into the '1897 Controversy' surrounding sightings of unidentified aerial objects in the USA. It follows up on a previous article and a contribution by Dr. Geoffrey Doel. Charles H. Gibbs-Smith asserts that the 1897 objects were not conventional man-made balloons or airships, citing the limited technology of the time. Dr. Geoffrey Doel replies, arguing that Gibbs-Smith's assertion is a sweeping statement unsupported by facts. Doel contends that the USA, with its rapidly advancing technology and individuals like Pennington, could have developed experimental craft. He points out that the objects moved with the wind, not against it, and that speeds up to 40 mph would have seemed remarkable to observers accustomed to trains. Doel also mentions experimental European airships from the late 19th century, like Count Zeppelin's and Tissandier's, and notes that Pennington's craft was electrically propelled. He highlights that the world land speed record in 1898 was 65 mph, achieved by an electric car, suggesting that propulsion technology was advancing. Doel clarifies that he is not debunking UFOs but suggests that some 1890s reports were genuine UFOs resembling 'flying saucers.' He concludes that the ingredients for such a craft existed in 1897, requiring only coordination. The article includes illustrations of Pennington's airship design and a newspaper sketch of an airship seen over Weatherford, Texas, in April 1897. The Dallas Morning News reported sightings of an airship described as cigar-shaped, about 30 feet long, with large wing-shaped fans and a wheel, powered electrically. Sightings were widely reported, leading to many fictitious reports and sceptics.

A Home Made One

This section recounts a practical hoax from Plano, Texas, in April 1897, where a large 'turkey buzzard' with a ball of burning turpentine tied to its leg was used to simulate a burning building, causing alarm. The bird eventually escaped, leaving the town relieved.

UFOLOGY AND LIBRARIES

This article discusses the classification of UFO literature in libraries. It notes that SPACELINK, along with other UFO publications, has received its own subject heading in the advertising directory BRAD. The author criticizes the Dewey decimal system for placing UFOs under 'Controversial and spurious knowledge' (001.9), arguing that this is unsatisfactory and that a better system, like the Library of Congress system, is needed. The article lists various Dewey classifications related to UFOs, including Generalities, Knowledge, Controversial and Spurious Knowledge, Controversies, Curiosities, Mysteries, Deceptions and Hoaxes, and Errors, Delusions and Superstitions.

Apologies

The managing editor apologizes for the delay in publishing the issue, citing the need to dedicate time to their work-a-day careers, major mechanical faults with electric typewriters, and a seven-week postal strike in the UK. Readers are assured they will still receive four issues for their subscription. The publication schedule is being reappraised, with the aim of publishing SPACELINK twice a year. A subscription increase for Volume 7 is announced, from 75p to 75np for four issues, a rise of 7np.

Astronomer Sees UFO

This personal account describes an amateur astronomer's sighting of a UFO through his six-inch Newtonian telescope in early October 1961. While trying to locate the star 19 Piscium, he observed an object entering his field of view and moving slowly. He initially mistook it for something unusual but lost sight of it when he became excited and accidentally knocked the telescope. He describes the object as having a metallic surface with glints of reflected light, possibly a glow from its upper part, and appearing slightly lighter than the background. He ruled out balloons, conventional aircraft, rockets, and satellites due to its speed, lack of features, and apparent movement within the atmosphere. He notes that the observation occurred when the Moon was not visible, placing it within the first two weeks of October 1961, under excellent observing conditions. He later found corroborating evidence from another witness whose account and sketch were identical.

Roger Stanway and Anthony Pace, SPACELINK's astronomical consultants, comment that the description is astronomically accurate. They note that Pisces would have been visible in the south-western sky and that the object's slow movement allowed for observation. They suggest the 'metallic' surface impression could be due to reflected light or the object being self-illuminated. They also mention a comparable sighting over Doncaster in February 1969.

'FLYING OBJECT' RIDDLE IN PLANE DISASTER

This brief report from 'The Sun' newspaper discusses the Viscount air disaster, where eye-witnesses reported a 'flying object coming out of the clouds' that may have contributed to the crash. The inquiry noted that no other aircraft were reported in the area at the time, and missile bases were shut down, but a 'remote possibility' of a mid-air collision remains. The article questions why UFOs involved in such incidents never seem to suffer.

Phobos Observed

This article discusses the Martian moon Phobos, based on data from the Mariner 6 and 7 missions. It notes that Phobos and Deimos were first discerned in 1877 and that their nature has been little understood. The Mariner missions returned photos allowing for measurements. Phobos is described as elongated, measuring about 14 miles in diameter and 11 miles from pole to pole. Its irregular shape is attributed to low surface gravity. The article highlights Phobos's extremely low surface brightness, with an albedo of only 0.065, making it the darkest body observed in the solar system. This darkness is speculated to be due to a dust-free surface scoured by meteorites. The article also mentions the hypothesis that Phobos might be a hollow sphere, implying an artificial origin, and the mystery of Mars capturing two such small bodies. It concludes by noting that further data processing may reveal more details.

The Astronomer

This is an advertisement for 'The Astronomer' magazine, a publication for practical amateur astronomy, offering a free copy upon subscription.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SPACELINK include UFO sightings, historical unexplained phenomena, astronomical observations related to space, and the challenges of classifying and researching UFO topics. The magazine appears to maintain an open-minded stance towards UFO phenomena, presenting various accounts and theories while also acknowledging skepticism and the need for rigorous investigation. The editorial stance seems to be one of encouraging public interest and discussion on these subjects, as evidenced by the 'Letters' section and the detailed reporting of various cases. The magazine also shows a commitment to providing a comprehensive overview of the field, including historical context and scientific findings.

This issue of SPACELINK, dated November 1970, focuses on the magazine's first symposium held on July 18, 1970, at the Kensington Central Library. The theme was 'practical UFO research,' aiming to examine the current state of the field, define objectives, and guide future efforts. The issue includes reports from the symposium, an interview with Dr. Joseph Allen Hynek, details of various UFO sightings, obituaries, and information on related organizations and publications.

SPACELINK Symposium Report

The symposium featured presentations on 'Defining ufology,' with Dr. Hynek's classification system and the distinction between 'UFO' (unidentified flying object) and 'unidentifiable flying objects.' Geoffrey Doel, a BUFORA Vice-President, warned against UFO cults and emphasized the need for scientific methods and researchers with broad experience. Gerry Brown presented a paper on 'Reflecting on definitions' and demonstrated an electronic 'learning' machine, sparking discussion about 'mechanimals.' David R.J. Viewing of the Bedfordshire UFO Society highlighted the potential of mechanical and electrical aids for sky-watching, capable of continuous monitoring. Other presentations included talks on sky-scan cameras and the U.S.A. Prairie Network by Anthony Pace, and a scheme for a UFO laboratory by Arnold West of BUFORA. Stephen Smith of BUFORA detailed the organization's research network. The symposium concluded with a social gathering.

Interview with Dr. Joseph Allen Hynek

Dr. Joseph Allen Hynek, a prominent astronomer and director of the Lindheimer Astronomical Research Center, discusses his early involvement with UFO research, beginning in 1948 when he was asked by the Air Force to analyze UFO reports. He found that a significant percentage of cases remained unexplained. Dr. Hynek recounts his visits to the UK in 1955 and 1963, and his participation in an international astronomical congress in Brighton in 1970. He emphasizes the need for specialization in UFO research and criticizes 'coffee clutch' meetings that lack substance. He also mentions his collaboration with researchers like Ted Phillips, who focuses on specific types of cases.

Personal and Organizational News

Several personal advertisements and announcements are featured. CONTACT (UK.) seeks to investigate UFO phenomena and connect interested individuals. Ray Palmer's 'Flying Saucers' magazine is promoted. PHENOMENES INCONNUS, a French UFO magazine, is also mentioned. SPACELINK offers promotional stickers. UFOLOG is described as a regular publication devoted to UK reports. COS-MOS invites contact from individuals with 'contact experiences.' The Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios (CEI) from Barcelona is introduced, with its Vice-Chairman, Jose Antonio Cezon Alonso, visiting London. CEI aims to build a national organization in Spain and publishes the quarterly STENDEK. The origin of the name STENDEK is explained through a mysterious incident involving a British aircraft in 1947.

UFO Sightings and Incidents

This issue details several UFO sightings and incidents:

• Andes Aircraft Disappearance (August 2, 1947): The report of a Lancastrian aircraft (G-AGWH) that disappeared over the Andes, with its final transmission containing the word 'STENDEC.'
• 'Mechanimals' (August 29, 1962): Three strange, mechanically-designed objects were observed over Puy-de-Dôme, France, exhibiting unusual flight characteristics.
• RA II Voyage Sightings (June 1970): Thor Heyerdahl logged three strange lights during his Atlantic crossing, including a dome-shaped object that expanded and illuminated the water.
• Hackney Sighting (November 21, 1970): Douglas Lockhart reported a pulsating, yellow-orange object with a red corona over Hackney.
• Walthamstow Incident (November 20, 1970): Two schoolboys reported a stone falling from the sky.
• Clapton Sighting (November 20, 1970): Stanley Simmonds and his wife saw a silver object.
• Hyde Park Sighting (July 18, 1970): A black, hazy object was observed hovering over Hyde Park during a pop festival.
• Aston Clinton Sighting (July 18, 1970): A bright, lampshade-like glow was seen in the sky.

Obituaries

The issue includes obituaries for two notable figures in the UFO community:

• Lionel Max Chassin (1902-1970): A French Air Force General who became interested in UFOs (OVNIS) and served as President of GEPA.
• Eric Biddle (1902-1970): A psychic researcher and ufologist, who was the editor of URANUS and a translator for SPACELINK.

Publications and Advertisements

Several books and publications are advertised, including 'Flying Saucer Viewpoint' by Rex Dutta, and a list of titles from SPACE AGE PUBLICATIONS, featuring works by John Keel, Ivan T. Sanderson, Charles Fort, Carl Jung, Harold T. Wilkins, Brad Steiger, and Erich von Daniken. The magazine also promotes its own SPACELINK envelope stickers and offers a reward for complete sets of Isle of Wight SPACELINKS.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of SPACELINK demonstrates a commitment to practical, scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, as evidenced by the symposium's focus and Dr. Hynek's interview. The magazine actively promotes UFO research organizations like BUFORA and CEI, and disseminates information through its own publication and by highlighting others. There is a clear editorial stance against unsubstantiated claims and 'cults,' while encouraging rigorous analysis and data collection. The inclusion of obituaries and personal ads suggests a close-knit community of researchers and enthusiasts. The magazine also appears to be a hub for international UFO news and contacts.

SPACELINK, Issue 21, published in 1971, presents a comprehensive "Reference Section" with a focus on South American UFO organizations and publications, alongside book reviews and a calendar of events. The magazine aims to provide detailed information for UFO researchers and enthusiasts.

South American Magazines

This section details 35 UFO organizations across eleven South American countries, including Argentina (15), Brazil (9), Chile (4), Peru (3), and others with fewer listings. It notes that some organizations failed to reply, suggesting they might be defunct. For each organization, the publication name, editor, publisher, address, frequency, circulation, cost, and remarks are provided. Publications are described with details such as format (e.g., foolscap, quarto), number of pages, language (English, Spanish, Portuguese), and whether they are duplicated, lithographed, or professionally printed. Some entries highlight the quality of printing, the inclusion of photos and diagrams, and the publication's history.

For instance, ARGENTINA's AOA INTERNATIONAL UFO NEWSLETTER is described as bi-monthly, first published in May 1970, with duplicated sheets and English text. ESPACIO, also from Argentina, is quarterly with typed-litho, unjustified photos and diagrams, in Spanish. BRAZIL's SBEDV BOLETIM has a litho cover with photos, duplicated sheets in Portuguese with a short English summary. CHILE's DIOVNI-CICA BOLETIN INFORMATIVO is typed-litho in Spanish with drawings and photos. UFO CHILE is neatly lithographed with photos, recommended, and commenced in August 1967, with a note that it "May be discontinued". SPAIN's STENDEK is a new European magazine, professionally printed on art paper, modelled on FSR.

Magazines Ceased Publication

This section lists several magazines that have ceased publication or merged. FLYING SAUCER FACTS wound up for financial reasons. ORBIT, published by the Tyneside UFO Society, had not appeared for two years, and the society disbanded. ILLUMINER ceased publication in December 1970, with its publisher announcing SWAPIG's disbandment and starting a new publication called PARASITE. UFO CHRONICLE was incorporated into the SIRIUS JOURNAL, and UFO MAGAZINE merged into FLYING SAUCER DIGEST.

New European Magazine

STENDEK, a new magazine from Spain, commenced in June 1970. It is described as professionally printed on art paper, modelled on FSR, and includes photos and diagrams. It is recommended by SLK.

Books Reviewed

Invisible Residents

"Invisible Residents" by Ivan T Sanderson is reviewed by Janet Gregory. The book is described as a "disquisition upon certain matters maritime, and the possibility of intelligent life under the waters of this earth." It covers topics such as UFOs (or UAOs) seen diving into or arising from water, disappearances in the Bermuda Triangle, discoveries of abandoned ships like the MARY CELESTE, and unusual underwater phenomena. The review notes Sanderson's "extremely valid arguments for theories which will generally be considered 'out-of-this-world'." A gold artifact from Colombia, dated 1000 years old, is depicted and described as resembling a modern delta-winged jet-fighter.

Scientific Study of Unidentified Flying Objects

This review, also by Janet Gregory, discusses the hardcover edition of the Condon Report, edited by D S Gillmor. The book is a large tome (968 pages) and is considered valuable for those who want to read the full report. The reviewer questions its placement in libraries alongside more popular UFO books.

The Silver Bridge

Gray Barker's book "The Silver Bridge" is reviewed. It focuses on dramatic incidents in West Virginia between November 1966 and December 1967, including 'Mothman' sightings and UFO encounters. The book relates a series of incidents, with Point Pleasant as a focal point. The 'Mothman' is described as a greyish-brown bird-like creature, 6-7 feet tall with large wings and hypnotic red eyes. The review notes similarities between Mothman's effects and UFOs on radio and television. The book is described as a mixture of fact and fiction, with some unfinished reports leaving the reader "in the air." The reviewer suggests it might appeal to those who understand surrealist art but recommends other sources for in-depth study.

Strange Creatures from Time and Space

John A. Keel's book is reviewed by Doreen Whitaker. It is described as a "comprehensive encyclopaedia of monsters," including flying occupants, psychic phenomena, phantom killers, and other unusual creatures. The reviewer suggests it is "Well worth reading - especially at bedtime!"

Return to the Stars

Erich von Däniken's "Return to the Stars" is reviewed. It follows the theme of "Chariots of the Gods" and suggests that human development has been influenced by extraterrestrials who stored knowledge in human memory. The book explores the idea of ancient astronauts and their monitoring of humanity. The reviewer notes that the author uses every argument to support his case, ranging from genetic control to ancient scripts. The review is brief and does not offer a strong opinion.

Browsers

This section lists publications carrying articles of interest from 1970/71, categorized by publication title and date. It includes articles from magazines like ARGOST, FATE, GRIFFITH OBSERVER, HONEY, INDUSTRIAL RESEARCH, PHYSICS TODAY, RISING SUN INTERNATIONAL, SAGA, and SKEMA 7. The entries provide article titles, authors, and brief descriptions, often noting the content and relevance to UFO research.

Saucers & Monsters

This article draws a parallel between the investigation of UFOs and the Loch Ness monster (and other cryptids). It highlights the similarity in investigation procedures, such as paying attention to witness qualifications and reliability. The article discusses a survey conducted by a London University team on Loch Morar monster sightings, categorizing them as genuine, mistaken, or hoaxes. It also touches upon the 'genus' of these creatures, with a theory suggesting they could be giant eels, supported by radar evidence and diver testimonies. The article contrasts the effort and money spent on studying loch monsters with that spent on UFOs, concluding that monsters are "less tenuous and more scientifically respectable than UFOs!"

1734 - A Giant Eel?

This short piece discusses historical sightings of sea monsters, including a 1734 account by Hans Egede of a sea serpent. It notes similarities to eels, particularly the body shape and pectoral fins, but also acknowledges reports of humps which do not fit the typical eel's lateral movement. The theory of giant eels being trapped in lakes is also mentioned.

Lionel's Litter

This column by Lionel Beer covers various news items and short reports. Topics include a baby born with a bullet hole in its foot, a prophecy about the end of the world that did not come true, strange noises on the Cutty Sark, a BBC 'Nightride' programme that mentioned BUFORA, the use of oral contraceptives for pigeons, and the Vatican's stance on birth control. It also touches on John Searl's spaceship aspirations and the application of the Trade Descriptions Act to historical and religious texts.

Books for Sale

This extensive list offers a wide range of books related to UFOs, science, ancient civilizations, mythology, and fringe topics. Books are categorized by subject, such as "Books by Scientists," "General Paperbacks," "General Background Reading," "UFO Related Historical, Mythological and Biblical Material," and "Contact, Fringe and Miscellaneous Material." Prices are listed in decimal currency and include postage. The list also includes "Special Reports, Supplements and Paperbound Booklets."

Magazines for Sale

This section lists various magazines available for purchase, including AUSTRALIAN FLYING SAUCER REVIEW, AUSTRALIAN UFO REVIEW, CANADIAN UFO REPORT, FLYING SAUCER NEWS, FLYING SAUCER REVIEW, SAUCERS SPACE & SCIENCE, SKEMA 7, and SPACELINK itself. Subscription details and prices are provided for each.

Coming Events

This section provides a calendar of meetings and events related to UFO research scheduled for 1971. It lists events in London, Guildford, various locations, Manchester, Warminster, Watford, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Paris, St. Louis, Santa Ana, Melbourne, and Sydney. Details include dates, times, venues, organizers, and contact information. Events range from lectures and 're-views' to symposia and exhibitions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SPACELINK are UFO research, the investigation of unexplained phenomena (including cryptids), and the dissemination of information through publications and events. The magazine appears to maintain a neutral but informative stance, presenting data from various sources, including publishers' statements and researchers' findings. There is a clear emphasis on providing a comprehensive resource for UFO enthusiasts, evidenced by the extensive lists of magazines, books, and upcoming meetings. The editorial stance encourages readers to submit details for inclusion and acknowledges contributions from individuals who provide material at their own expense.

This issue, titled "ONE FOR THE POT," focuses on photographic evidence of UFOs and the subsequent analysis, often concluding in hoaxes. It presents cases from Japan and Argentina, alongside a brief mention of a Russian hovercraft. The magazine is printed in England by AB Printers, Leicester.

The Shinsaku Sugawara Case

The primary article details the claim by Shinsaku Sugawara, a 16-year-old schoolboy from Kurihara, northeastern Japan, who took four photos of a UFO on April 4, 1970. He described the object as cement grey, flying slowly and silently about 300 feet above the ground, disappearing behind a hill 20 seconds later. The photos were developed on June 29th, and the story gained publicity in Japan, including in THE JAPAN TIMES and THE SHUKAN-SHINCHO.

However, CRA International of Yokohama analyzed the photos and concluded that Sugawara had photographed a Japanese iron pot. The Japan UFO Research Association (JUFORA) of Kobe also conducted a study and concluded the photos were a hoax. They cited unnatural angles, excessively dark contrast, and identified the object as likely being a pair of ash trays joined face to face, noting visible cigarette gutters. JUFORA demonstrated they could reproduce similar photos using ash trays. Sugawara was reportedly unwilling to complete their sighting report form.

The article notes that the material was condensed from contributions by Yusuke Matsumura of CBA and the Japan UFO Research Association.

The Mar del Plata and Mendoza Sightings

Two other UFO incidents are presented, both with photographic evidence.

The first involves photos sent by Guillermo Aldunati of AOA International, reportedly taken in Mar del Plata, Argentina, showing a UFO seen by about 300 people. However, a newspaper cutting from LA RAZON dated April 17, 1970, provides a different account. It states that Raul Galan, a professional photographer for the local journal LA CAPITAL, photographed a "saucer" on April 13, 1970, at 1:40 pm. Galan described the object as appearing in a clear sky over the sea while his car engine stalled. He took a photo with his Asahi Pentax camera. The report notes that no other witnesses reported the sighting, though some anglers on a quay at La Perla mentioned seeing something bright in the sky that vanished quickly. The article questions why this story did not attract more publicity and notes the photo's similarity to four Rex Heflin photos from California taken in 1965, differing only in having a broader 'brim'. The authenticity of this story is not verified.

The second incident is a photo taken by Bernardo Razquin in Mendoza, Argentina, in May 1969. Razquin was photographing a condensation trail from an aircraft when the UFO appeared on his film. He did not see the UFO at the time it was photographed. Although published in other UFO magazines, the editor expresses certainty that the object is a fault on the film rather than an actual UFO.

Ufa 'Flying Saucer'

Separately, the issue clarifies that the "Ufa 'flying Saucer'" is not a UFO but a single-seater hovercraft constructed in the Russian town of Ufa. It was designed by students, named "THE SKATE," and exhibited at the Economic Exhibition in Moscow in 1970. The photo credit is given to Gerald Bailey.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme in this issue is the critical examination of photographic UFO evidence, with a strong tendency towards identifying hoaxes or natural phenomena. The editorial stance appears skeptical, as evidenced by the analysis of the Sugawara case and the dismissal of the Razquin photo as a film fault. The magazine aims to present UFO reports but also to debunk them through careful investigation and comparison with known objects or photographic errors. The inclusion of the Ufa hovercraft serves to correct potential misidentifications.