Topside - Issue 12 - 1963 winter and spring

Magazine Overview

This document is a special memorial edition of the magazine "TOPSIDE", issue #12, published in the Winter and Spring of 1963. It is dedicated to the memory of its founder, Wilbert B. Smith, who was an engineer, scientist, philosopher, and Canadian authority on U.F.O.s. The edition was reprinted by the OTTAWA NEW SCIENCES AND CONTACT (CANADA) GROUP, with contact information provided for Mr. & Mrs. W. James Smith in Ottawa, Ontario.

Editorial Introduction

The introductory text explains that the last ten years of Wilbert B. Smith's life were devoted to intensive thought and study, leading to a manuscript titled "The New Science." This issue aims to present his most important writings on UFOs and related subjects, with the hope that readers will benefit from them, similar to how the Ottawa Flying Saucer Club benefitted from their association with Smith, described as a man of great courage, insight, and understanding.

Funeral Sermon for Wilbert Smith

The issue features a funeral sermon for Wilbert Smith, delivered on December 29th, 1962, by Wallace B. Shute, F.R.C.S.(C.). The sermon, based on I Corinthians: 15th Chapter, eulogizes Smith as a unique soul and an adventurous leader into realms of the mind and spirit. Shute highlights Smith's intelligence guided by conscience, his unwavering convictions, and his sense of mission. He describes Smith as a "stranger and pilgrim on the earth, for he sought a better country, that is, a heavenly." The sermon emphasizes Smith's courage, his commitment to truth, and his diligence in his work. It notes that Smith belonged to no earthly church but recognized the Church of Christ. Shute recounts Smith's illness, during which he became a humble suppliant seeking God's mercy. The sermon concludes with a reflection on death and victory through Christ, commending Smith's spirit to God.

"Why I Believe in the Reality of Spacecraft" by Wilbert B. Smith

This section contains a significant article by Wilbert B. Smith himself, detailing his seven-year investigation into the phenomena of flying saucers. He states his background as a 48-year-old Masters-level Electrical Engineer with a responsible position in the Canadian Government, holding patents and authoring technical papers, indicating a strong competence to study scientific phenomena. Smith approached the subject as an extreme skeptic, initially expecting man-made or natural causes.

His investigation was divided into three phases: reading literature and collecting data, theoretical and laboratory work, and following up leads. He mentions that his experience was parallel to other investigators, but he cannot be specific due to confidential information and "classified" channels. His intention is not to convert but to state his beliefs and reasons.

• Smith presents several facts supporting his belief:
• Hundreds of normal, honest people have seen lights and solid objects in the sky behaving in ways inconsistent with known phenomena.
• Descriptions from observers, even when circumstances preclude collusion, are consistent and align with other data.
• He argues it's unreasonable to assume hundreds of ordinary people would suddenly become liars or incompetent observers.

He also cites close brushes with these objects, including the death of Captain Mantell in 1947 while reportedly chasing a flying saucer (detailed in Edward J. Ruppelt's "The Report on Unidentified Flying Objects"). People near these objects reported unusual physical sensations consistent with advanced technology.

Smith discusses the technology, suggesting it involves manipulation of electric, magnetic, and "tempic" fields. He notes that the vicinity of the craft may have reduced binding forces, causing structural failure (as possibly in Mantell's case), and caused temperature rises and alterations in gravity. He also mentions alleged communications with extraterrestrial intelligences, which he investigated by asking consistent questions across different contacts. He found significant agreement among potentially authentic contacts, while others showed poor agreement or were influenced by terrestrial ideas.

Smith acknowledges the gap between alien science and human understanding, finding the alien science ultimately incomprehensible. He describes a period of soul-searching, considering conventional explanations and hoaxes, but concluding the phenomena are real. He found answers in a philosophical approach, realizing the "ONENESS" of the Universe, where science, philosophy, and religion are facets of the same jewel. He emphasizes that humanity is not alone and that extraterrestrials are ancient and extend throughout the universe, with Earth having been colonized multiple times. He suggests that humans and these beings are "blood brothers."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the legacy of Wilbert B. Smith, his pioneering work in UFO investigation and his manuscript "The New Science," and the nature of extraterrestrial contact. The editorial stance, as presented through the introduction and the funeral sermon, is one of respect for Smith's intellect, courage, and spiritual quest, framing his work within a broader context of truth-seeking and spiritual understanding. The article "Why I Believe in the Reality of Spacecraft" clearly articulates a belief in the reality of UFOs and extraterrestrial intelligence, based on scientific investigation and personal conviction, moving beyond conventional explanations.

This issue of Flying Saucer Review, Volume 13, Issue 16, published in 1961, delves into the phenomenon of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and their implications for science and humanity. The content primarily features articles by W.B. Smith, exploring themes of extraterrestrial visitation, the limitations of current scientific understanding, and the potential for advanced alien technology.

Article: The Question of Interference and Universal Law

The issue begins by addressing the question of why 'brothers' from elsewhere might remain aloof. It posits a basic universal law of independence and freedom of choice, stating that no one has the right to interfere in the affairs of others. Disregarding this law is seen as the cause of the 'deplorable world state.' These advanced beings, possessing greater knowledge, refrain from interfering to avoid altering sequences crucial for human development. The line between help and interference is described as delicate, a marker of individual and collective progress.

Article: Dimensions and Scientific Procedure

A difficulty for humanity is identified as the failure to recognize and utilize sufficient dimensions in science. The universe is said to have twelve dimensions, providing its structure. Current scientific concepts of dimensions are deemed inadequate. The established scientific procedure of tying new discoveries to existing knowledge, even with 'patchwork' and 'perturbation factors,' is criticized for bending and warping knowledge to fit preconceived structures, leading to the rejection of information that doesn't fit.

Article: Science and Simplicity

Science is presented as potentially much simpler than imagined, with component parts fitting together perfectly. A call is made to reassemble knowledge in a new pattern, accepting a philosophy that would allow enjoyment of the technology demonstrated by 'brothers from elsewhere.'

Article: We Are Not Alone

Authored by W.B. Smith, this section emphasizes the vastness and age of the universe, with billions of stars and millions of galaxies. Earth's age is estimated in billions of years, with stars potentially older or eternal. Humanity's relatively short existence and recent civilization are acknowledged, leading to a natural egotism. However, the question is raised whether humanity is alone. The article notes humanity's recent steps into space, with interplanetary travel projected before 2000 and interstellar trips shortly after, provided humanity avoids self-destruction.

Article: Space Travel and Alien Contact

Future space travel plans include exploration, exploitation, and colonization of planets. Mankind's inherent adventurous nature suggests future actions will mirror past behaviors. Observations of nearer stars indicate the presence of large planets, suggesting planets are common. The vastness and age of the universe make it reasonable to speculate about other intelligent life. If an alien race is only a few hundred or thousand years ahead, they could be engaged in space travel as commonplace as wheeled vehicles are to us. Such races might actively accelerate environmental conditions and seed planets with life. Evidence suggests this is happening, with explanations for evolutionary relationships on Earth pointing to extraterrestrial origins rather than solely terrestrial evolution. Spectroscopic observations of Mars show vegetation, and radio telescopes detect systematic signals. Sightings of craft, lights, and formations on Mars and the Moon, and particularly the sighting of alien craft on Earth, are presented as significant evidence.

Article: Legends, History, and Flying Saucers

Legends and history contain stories of visits by beings from the sky in advanced craft. This has occurred throughout ages and continues today. While publicity about 'Flying Saucers' is recent, reports are old. The tense international situation made people suspicious of unknown aerial objects. Military involvement focused on defense, and once saucers were deemed non-hostile, interest waned. Data collected was classified, hindering independent analysis. Thousands have witnessed lights and solid objects behaving unusually, with reliable photographs and 'hardware' collected. Simultaneous visual and radar sightings, and evidence of physical contact, are noted. Reports of beings resembling humans and contacts with these beings are also mentioned, with consistent outcomes from these contacts.

Article: Project Magnet: The Canadian Flying Saucer Study

Authored by W.B. Smith, this section details Project Magnet, authorized in December 1950. The study involved collecting and analyzing data on unidentified flying objects and related physical principles. Unfortunately, the project was plagued by publicity, leading to its official dropping by the Department of Transport in October 1954. However, it continued under private financing, with the government not participating or responsible for its conclusions.

Article: Conclusions from Project Magnet

The Project Magnet report concluded a 91% probability that some sightings were of real objects of unknown origin, and a 60% probability that they were alien vehicles. Studies of basic physical concepts revealed ambiguities and alternatives, suggesting simpler arithmetic and presentations are possible. Some ideas about fields and their behavior were deemed wrong. Recent activities focused on following leads, with a pattern emerging for a new technology that could lead to the stars.

Article: Reporting Flying Saucer Sightings

This article by W.B. Smith provides guidance on reporting UFO sightings to maximize their value. It stresses the importance of noting exact time and place, providing detailed descriptions, and documenting environmental conditions. Precision in reporting is crucial for analysis. The article suggests identifying what an object *was not* can be as important as identifying what it was. It highlights that while identifying obscure objects is for experts, amateurs can provide essential facts for analysis.

Article: Sputniks, Saucers, and Spacecraft

Also by W.B. Smith, this piece discusses the impact of the Russian Sputnik launch in 1957. It brought the reality of space travel home and led to an increase in UFO reports, as people became more aware of objects in the sky. The realization that space travel was feasible also opened the possibility that other races might already be engaged in it. While officialdom was not ready to admit the reality of saucers, Smith's extensive study led him to conclude that many objects are spacecraft from elsewhere, operated by advanced beings. He believes alien technology is far ahead of ours.

Article: Evidence and Scientific Limitations

Smith reiterates that thousands have seen unusual lights and solid objects behaving in ways not explained by normal physics. He has interviewed witnesses and believes they are normal, honest individuals. He finds the evidence for flying saucers more compelling than for atomic bombs, which have official disclosure. He argues that current science relies on conjecture and 'correction factors,' missing anomalies. Instead of accepting the evidence of space travel via means other than rockets, humanity is denying it. Smith concludes that alien science transcends ours and may be beyond reach.

Article: Gravity Control Research

This section discusses the moral courage of investigators who, despite 'heresy' cries, explored the possibility of gravity control, inspired by flying saucers. Smith's group focused on gravity, challenging Newton's law and viewing it as a derived function of a dynamic condition. They have conducted experiments demonstrating artificial gravity and the alteration of Earth's gravitational field. The next step is engineering this principle into workable hardware. This work is privately financed and relies on volunteers, suggesting that a fraction of rocket program funding directed towards gravity control research, with potential help from extraterrestrials, could lead to safer and more economical space travel.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the reality of UFOs and extraterrestrial visitation, the limitations of current scientific paradigms, and the potential for advanced alien technology, particularly in gravity control. The editorial stance, as expressed through W.B. Smith's articles, is one of open inquiry, critical examination of scientific dogma, and a belief in the evidence supporting the existence of alien spacecraft and advanced extraterrestrial civilizations. There is a strong emphasis on the need for better reporting of sightings and a call for a more open-minded approach to scientific discovery, particularly concerning phenomena that challenge established theories.

This issue of the magazine, identified by the number '19.', focuses on 'THE PHILOSOPHY OF THE SAUCERS' and is authored by Wilbert B. Smith. The content explores the deeper implications of the flying saucer phenomenon beyond mere sightings, delving into the potential nature, intelligence, and intentions of the beings involved.

The Philosophy of the Saucers

Wilbert B. Smith begins by posing fundamental questions about the 'Saucerians': their appearance, thought processes, ideals, and the possibility of understanding them. He notes that relying solely on sighting data might lead to a skewed perception, such as assuming they are robots due to their ability to withstand extreme forces. However, he reverses this perspective, suggesting that if humans possessed such power, they would likely claim dominion. The fact that the Saucerians have not done so implies they may view humanity as akin to the planet's flora and fauna, with our civilization being indistinguishable from that of lower animals.

Smith highlights that direct contact has been made, and information has been shared, though some accounts may be exaggerated. He emphasizes that when multiple independent contacts convey the same message, including names and descriptions, it lends credibility to the information. The 'magnificent philosophy' presented by these beings describes a grand Cosmic Plan that transcends individual lifetimes and even planetary existence. This philosophy offers solutions to many human problems and suggests a new, more embracing science than current mathematical constructs. It also outlines a utopian way of life and the means to achieve it.

Smith acknowledges that if this were purely philosophical, it might be dismissed. However, when coupled with thousands of real observations, it becomes harder to ignore. The science provided by these extraterrestrial beings explains saucer behavior in ways current science cannot. Experiments have reportedly validated alien scientific concepts, vindicating them over existing theories.

You Cannot Make Him Drink

This section addresses why this knowledge has not been widely publicized. Smith states that the information has been published in books and periodicals, and reports have been submitted through official channels. However, he uses the idiom 'one can lead a horse to water but one cannot make him drink' to explain the resistance. Those in control are content with the status quo and resist changes that might disturb their lives. Others are too indifferent to investigate, preferring to dismiss the topic as nonsense if someone they respect does. Some fear for their social security and avoid anything that might jeopardize it. Many private reasons prevent people from facing the facts.

Despite this resistance, Smith finds solace in the fact that comic strips and science fiction stories are conditioning the younger generation to accept the reality of extraterrestrials, preparing them to assimilate information when the opportunity arises.

The Future

Smith discusses the question of the future, noting that extraterrestrials are aware of trends and can make accurate predictions, unlike humans with their limited data-gathering means. He summarizes the flying saucer situation as arriving at a critical juncture where humanity must choose between right and wrong. The extraterrestrials are concerned about this choice, partly due to its repercussions on them and partly because humans are their 'blood brothers.' Due to a cosmic law against interference, they cannot directly help but are ready to do so if needed. Present trends suggest events may require their assistance. They have already helped indirectly, respecting humanity's freedom of choice. The article anticipates a future meeting on common ground, leading to mutual understanding and trust, ushering in a 'Golden Age.'

The Five Faces of Man

This section, also by W.B. Smith, outlines five fundamental relationships essential for a being's experience and evolution:

1. Religion: The relationship of a being to its Creator. Smith criticizes current religions for being a 'hodge-podge of superstition' with lip service rather than genuine belief or understanding.
2. The Hierarchy: The relationship of a being to others not of its kind. He notes humanity's limited knowledge of other beings and its tendency to ignore or suppress encounters that are inconvenient.
3. Civilization: The relationship of beings to others of the same kind. While humanity has a civilization, Smith deems it inadequate, comparing it unfavorably to that of ants and bees. He suggests that disagreement on how to structure civilization hinders its evolution, and true progress will only occur when people are satisfied with their current state.
4. Science: The relationship of a being to the physical world. Smith describes the current scientific method as a process of guessing and testing, which has built a magnificent but potentially incomplete concept of the universe. He posits a 'Creator' as the prime cause and suggests a 'bottom-up' approach, starting from 'Nothing-At-All,' to gain a simpler and more accurate understanding.
5. The Tallus: The relationship of a being to its physical vehicle. Many people fail to recognize this distinction, believing the body is the being. Smith explains that the transcendental nature of awareness indicates it is separate from the physical structure. Experiences like drugs, excitement, sex, birth, death, and mediumship involve alterations in this relationship, caused by the partial withdrawal of the being from the vehicle.

Binding Forces

In this article, also by W.B. Smith, the concept of 'binding forces' that hold matter together is explored. Smith notes that current theories are elegant but often require 'correction factors' to explain phenomena. He describes how the people from 'elsewhere' were asked about aeroplane crashes, and it was revealed that some were due to reduced binding regions on Earth. Pilots were advised to be aware of these regions, which are not linear and can be detected by instruments.

The 'Binding Meter' is explained as a device that measures these regions. It consists of a nylon fiber stressed near its elastic limit, pulling against a steel spring. Longitudinal movement of the fiber causes a spindle to turn, moving a pointer across a scale. Successful instruments have been built using aluminum tubing, showing good temperature compensation and humidity resistance, but lack of calibration means they are only useful for qualitative indication.

Smith and his colleagues have investigated areas of reduced binding, finding circular regions about 1,000 feet in diameter. While some aircraft have flown through these regions without incident, others have crashed. The strength of these binding forces appears to be greater in northern latitudes and some areas seem permanently afflicted. The regions may move or fade over time.

Are We Entering - Or Leaving?

This section, again by W.B. Smith, addresses the implications of atomic energy. He states that humanity is crossing a threshold, but it's unclear whether it's entering a new era or leaving the old one. He discusses the devastating potential of atomic war, citing Dr. Hugh Keenlyside's estimate of over 150,000 nuclear devices. The explosion of an atom bomb, even diluted, can generate temperatures of millions of degrees centigrade.

Smith speculates on what would happen if an atom bomb exploded deep in a body of fresh water like the Great Lakes. The surrounding hydrogen-rich water could trigger a thermo-nuclear chain reaction, potentially enveloping the planet in seconds and causing a celestial display visible throughout the galaxy, but rendering humanity extinct.

He asserts that this is not idle speculation but based on the same data used to develop the atom bomb, serving as a grim testament to its potential. The question remains whether humanity is entering a new phase or leaving existence.

Wilbert B. Smith Honoured by Award

This final section reports that Wilbert B. Smith was posthumously awarded the Canadian Engineering Award, specifically 'The Col. Keith S. Rogers Memorial Engineering Award.' This award recognizes dedicated service in advancing technical standards in Canadian Broadcasting. The award is donated by the Canadian General Electric Company and named in memory of Lt.-Colonel Keith S. Rogers, a pioneer of broadcasting in Canada who founded Radio Broadcasting Station CFCY. The award is given annually to a Canadian who has made a significant contribution to the technical development of the broadcasting industry.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the philosophical and scientific implications of the flying saucer phenomenon, the potential for advanced extraterrestrial intelligence, and the future of humanity in the face of technological advancements like atomic energy. The editorial stance, as presented by Wilbert B. Smith, is one of open inquiry, a belief in the reality of the phenomenon, and a conviction that a deeper understanding of the universe and humanity's place within it is possible through a new, more comprehensive scientific and philosophical framework. There is a strong undercurrent of concern regarding humanity's current trajectory, particularly concerning its potential for self-destruction through atomic warfare and its resistance to embracing new knowledge.

This document, page 29 of an unspecified magazine issue, focuses on an award presented to Wilbert Smith. The text highlights the prestige of the award and the distinguished nature of the committee that bestows it. Wilbert Smith himself had served on this committee in the past.

The Award and Wilbert Smith's Recognition

The Committee's reference states that the award is not given annually but only when an achievement, development, invention, or service of sufficient importance warrants it, making it a highly prized honor. The specific citation for Wilbert Smith's award recognizes his "lifetime of dedicated and distinguished service to the advancement of technical knowledge in the Canadian broadcasting industry, the improvement of its techniques, the protection of its interests." It also acknowledges his "example of diligence and integrity and in consideration of the universal respect and regard that Wilbert's efforts had earned throughout the broadcasting industry, in the Government of Canada, and in other areas."

A speaker, whose identity is not explicitly stated but is implied to be a member of the C.A.B. Judging Committee, expresses strong agreement that the award has "never been better deserved." The speaker remembers Wilbert Smith as an "outstanding Canadian, a gentleman we were all proud to know," and believes that his memory and distinguished record should be a source of great pride.

Personal Connection and Continued Presence

The text further conveys the pride and pleasure of those involved in presenting this tribute to Wilbert Smith. It is noted that after a lifetime of dedicated service in radio communications, the honor of this particular award being made to him is fitting. The speaker, as a member of the C.A.B. Judging Committee, had previously presented this same trophy to other distinguished Canadians in the field. It was known that Smith had hoped to earn this award himself one day. The Ottawa New Sciences Club feels that Wilbert Smith's presence continues among them, and they are sure he is pleased to have been awarded this prized trophy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme is the recognition of outstanding achievement and lifetime service within the technical field of broadcasting and radio communications in Canada. The editorial stance is one of deep respect, admiration, and pride for Wilbert Smith's contributions and character. The document emphasizes the value of diligence, integrity, and lasting impact in one's professional endeavors. The recurring theme is the honoring of a respected individual's legacy through a prestigious award.