Topside - Issue 16 - 1965 Spring

Magazine Overview

Title: TOPSIDE
Publisher: THE OTTAWA NEW SCIENCES CLUB
Issue Date: SPRING, 1965
Issue Number: 16
Price: $1.00 for 4 issues.

This issue of TOPSIDE, published by the Ottawa New Sciences Club, addresses the persistent "Mysterious Silence" surrounding UFO sightings, questioning the official denials and exploring potential reasons for the lack of open communication from both governments and potential extraterrestrial visitors.

The Mysterious Silence

The editorial, titled "The Mysterious Silence," opens by noting the increasing number of UFO sightings reported by competent observers, yet contrasts this with the "stony silence or a downright denial" from world governments. The author argues that this dogmatic attitude is counterproductive, making the average person more inclined to believe in UFOs. A frank "We don't know" would be more convincing than the current secrecy, which is seen as an insult to intelligence, suggesting trained men are merely victims of misinterpretation or mass hallucination.

The editorial poses questions about the visitors' silence, suggesting it might be because humanity is not spiritually developed enough to receive them without exploitation. It posits that rather than use advanced technology against us, they prefer to remain observers until we reach a stage of "Cosmic Brotherhood."

It references the late Wilbert B. Smith, a "founder and pioneer Ufologist," who maintained that the reason for the visitors' silence was their strict observance of "Cosmic Laws governing the natural evolution of intelligent beings." This prevented them from making open contact or intervening in Earth affairs. Smith believed that progress must be natural and achieved through personal effort, and that the visitors have proven they are not hostile, respecting their non-intervention policy.

The piece suggests that when humanity evolves to a better understanding of Cosmic Brotherhood, open visits for friendly, cultural exchanges may occur. It is believed by many that the purpose of their presence is to draw attention to the existence of "cosmic brothers in space" who, through their friendly attitude, aim to foster awareness of other advanced civilizations and broaden our horizons.

Wilbert Smith also stated that while direct interference was not permitted, a limited amount of guidance could be given to sincere seekers of truth. This help could be acquired not through physical contact but by employing "power of thought," which is a universal language. Space brothers are prepared to assist through mental suggestion and inspiration, but humans must do the work of achieving enlightenment themselves.

The editorial then addresses the global situation where governments prefer silence over satisfying people's search for knowledge. It mentions an "international UFO grapevine" suggesting a "space event" might soon occur, forcing governments to break their silence and admit the truth about sophisticated, extraterrestrially controlled spacecraft.

Readers are urged to maintain an open mind, as this message has been received by groups worldwide. The message from space brothers reportedly states that following this event, people who previously ridiculed UFO groups will seek information from them. UFO groups are asked to be prepared, preserve their records, and cooperate. They are specifically advised not to exploit public curiosity for monetary gain but to be ready to enlighten freely when the time comes.

If these messages are true, UFO groups, forming the nucleus of a New Age philosophy of Cosmic Brotherhood, may lead Earth brothers into a new realm of thinking, encompassing world peace, friendly communication, increased knowledge, wider horizons, and spiritual rewards. The author acknowledges that this may not be achieved in our lifetime, but sees it as a worthwhile project for future generations. The piece concludes this section with a quote from Wilbert Smith: "Let's get in there - and DIG!"

What They Are Doing in Japan

This section details the activities of "The Cosmic Brotherhood Association" (CBA) in Yokohama, Japan, described as one of the most active flying saucer groups globally. Their activities include regular sky-watch meetings, expeditions to ancient ruins where UFOs are often observed, studying the flying saucer problem, collecting UFO information from reputable sources, and distributing literature promoting their philosophy of "Flying Saucers are Friendly."

The article emphasizes that this slogan is a key aspect of their advanced philosophy, which more technically-minded UFO groups might overlook. It warns that until humanity learns the lesson of "brotherly love" and opens itself to cosmic consciousness, doors to scientific achievements through natural laws will remain closed. The piece suggests that spiritual development is inextricably linked with advanced UFO technology, and that the Japanese friends are on the right track. Their belief is that when the world is ready to welcome flying saucers "with all their hearts," Earth will revive spiritually. They define flying saucers as:

1. Not natural phenomena.
2. Nor earthly aircraft.
3. But are spaceships from outer space.
4. Not offensive against us.
5. Observed over any country over the earth.
6. Frequently watched over ancient ruins.
7. Often sighted over Air Force and Nuclear Bases.
8. Visitors to our earth since ancient times.
9. Completely controlled by high intelligence.
10. Responsive to our sincere calls at any time.

The CBA states that it is a regular Scientific Research Organization founded in 1957, active under the leadership of Yusuke Matsumura. They hold lecture meetings, promote unity among female members through the "Ladies Circle," and organize "sighting meetings" for juniors. Their Scientific Research Division publishes monthly bulletins, and their Emergency Defence Division engages in support and relief programs. The CBA also interests juniors worldwide through the "International Committee of Flying Saucers for Juniors."
The article expresses well wishes for the CBA's projects and provides contact information for those seeking further details.

More About UFOs

This article by Bruce West discusses the ongoing interest in UFOs in the United States, despite the perception that the topic had been dismissed. It highlights an article in "True Magazine" by retired U.S. Marine Corps Major Donald E. Keyhoe, director of the National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena (NICAP), an organization with 5,000 members across 50 states and 30 countries.

Keyhoe contends that the U.S. Air Force possesses more substantiated evidence of UFOs than it discloses. He cites a specific incident on January 10th of that year, where a photocopy of an official tracking log from Cape Kennedy allegedly shows an orbiting Polaris missile being approached by a UFO. The automatic tracking radar reportedly locked onto the UFO, causing the missile to move out of its "sight."

The article then presents a sampling of statements from prominent Americans regarding UFOs:

• Rear-Admiral Delmer Fahrney (USN, Ret.), former chief of the navy guided missile division: "Reliable reports indicate that unidentified objects are coming into our atmosphere at very high speeds and that they are controlled."
• Dewey-Fournet, Jr., former air force headquarters intelligence monitor for the UFO project: "The air force is still withholding information on unidentified flying objects, including UFO sighting reports."
• Vice-Admiral Roscoe H. Hillenkoetter (USN, Ret.), former Central Intelligence Agency director: "The unknown objects are operating under intelligent control. It is imperative that we learn where they come from."
• Albert M. Chop, deputy public affairs director, National Aeronautics and Space Administration: "I've been convinced for a long time that the 'saucers' are interplanetary. We're being watched by beings from outer space."
• Senator Everett Dirksen: "I cannot support the Government secrecy in these fields unless the national security is involved and I cannot believe that it is."
• John W. McCormack, Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives: "I feel that the air force has not been giving out all the information it has on the UFOs. You can't disregard so many unimpeachable sources."
• B.W., a Toronto columnist: Questions the egotism of scoffing at the possibility of two-way traffic in space, given the vastness of the universe and the advancements in space exploration.

The article concludes by noting that these statements were sourced from "The Globe and Mail" Toronto, dated December 18, 1964.

An Ideal Prayer

This section presents a prayer adopted by several international UFO Groups, translated into multiple languages. It is printed for others to incorporate into a worldwide prayer. The prayer asks for:

• Eyes to see what is, not more light.
• Ears to hear present melodies, not sweeter songs.
• Skill to use possessed power, not more strength.
• Skill to turn a frown to a caress, not more love.
• Ability to feel kindness near, not more joy.
• The capacity to give all one has of courage and cheer.

A second stanza asks for sense to use bestowed gifts, the ability to dominate fears, to know holy joy, to be a friend, to speak truth, to love the pure, seek the good, and lift all souls to dwell in harmony and freedom.

The Law of Perfect Justice

A quote attributed to EMERSON states: "The dice of God are always loaded. For everything you have missed, you have gained something else. The world is like a multiplication table or a mathematical equation which, turn it how you will, balances itself. Every secret is told, every crime is punished, every virtue is rewarded, every wrong redressed, in silence and certainty."

Extracts from Letters to the Editor

This section features brief comments and letters from readers. One letter praises an article on the "power of thought," emphasizing the importance of positive thinking and taking responsibility for one's thoughts and actions, suggesting a need for "tidying-up in the 'upstairs attic'."

Another letter discusses "The power of thought" and "Cosmic Consciousness," highlighting two vital issues: the need for clear understanding and the problem of "middle-men" in the spiritual field who exploit their calling for power and gain. It argues that individual awareness is stifled by apathy, and that the system discourages independent thinking, as a free-thinking mind cannot be dominated. The motivating force behind this is a desire for control and power.

A third letter references a report titled "Vatican City is Already Training Space Missionaries," finding it interesting but noting the "somewhat egotistical assumption" that extraterrestrials need conversion to Catholicism. However, it acknowledges that this religion recognizes the truth of Cosmic

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of TOPSIDE revolve around the mystery and implications of UFO phenomena, the perceived government secrecy surrounding them, and the potential for extraterrestrial contact. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry, critical of official denials, and hopeful for a future of interspecies understanding and cooperation based on spiritual evolution and Cosmic Brotherhood. The publication actively promotes the idea that UFOs are real, intelligent, and non-hostile, encouraging readers to maintain an open mind and prepare for future developments. There is a strong emphasis on personal responsibility, spiritual growth, and the importance of positive thought in understanding these phenomena.

This issue of UFO Nachrichten, identified as issue number 10 and likely from 1965, delves into the intersection of theology, space exploration, and UFO phenomena. It features discussions on the Catholic Church's perspective on extraterrestrial life, details scientific investigations like 'Project Magnet,' and reports on UFO sightings. The magazine also includes poetry related to reincarnation.

Theological Implications of Extraterrestrial Life

The issue opens with a discussion on intelligence, progress, and the need for religions to evolve with science. It quotes a theological discussion originating from Pope John XXIII's era concerning the potential discovery of intelligent life on other planets. In February 1963, the Vatican's official organ, 'Osservatore Romano,' theorized about the spiritual state of such extraterrestrials, questioning whether sin is unknown to them or if they possess supernatural gifts. The prevailing theological opinion suggested that extraterrestrials must have sinned, as innocence is believed to be non-existent in space. Consequently, the church's duty is seen as saving them from sin and introducing them to Catholicism.

Training Space Missionaries

Remarkably, a small group of theologians are reportedly occupied with training future space missionaries. This training is conducted in two ways: utilizing already-trained space pilots and carefully training young people, some still in school, for the task of working as missionaries on distant planets. These trainees receive specific technical instruction and are taught everything necessary to be accepted as fully-trained members of space crews. They will be ordained before their mission begins. The stated mission is to carry the Catholic Creed to the most distant worlds, even if it takes a thousand years, with the understanding that it could happen any day.

Project Magnet and Geomagnetic Research

An article translated from 'Le Courrier Interplotaire' by Ann Hardy details the U.S. Operation "Project Magnet." This investigation, under the direction of Major Keyhoe and controlled by the Naval Oceanographic Office of the American Marine, officially aims to study the Earth's magnetic field and its irregularities using specially-equipped planes. However, Mr. Robert C. Beck of NICAP notes that, beyond its official geomagnetic aims, the operation may also be tasked with gathering maximum information on Unidentified Flying Objects for the American Navy's Intelligence Service.

"South-American Anomaly" and Exploration Flights

Recent events seem to support NICAP's opinion. The Argentine Republic has been a frequent site of UFO activity. In late January 1964, a 'Project Magnet' plane, the KC-135 Paisano II, was based for ten days at Ezeiza International Airport in Buenos Aires. From there, U.S. investigators conducted exploration flights, including one to the South Georgia Islands, with Argentine officials participating as observers. A zone known as the "South-American Anomaly" exhibits magnetic irregularities, and researchers believe UFO trajectories might be influenced by the Earth's magnetic field.

Before returning to the U.S., the KC-135 Paisano II visited Santiago and Lima, undertaking further exploration flights. The results of this research were sent to the Scientific Foundation Bartol, near Swarthmore, Pennsylvania, for examination.

Report from "Down Under"

A report from Wellington, New Zealand, dated January 14, 1965, describes seven unidentified objects picked up on radar over the Tasman Sea. The objects were flying at approximately 4,500 feet in an easterly direction and were in a V-formation. A Civil Aviation Department official confirmed the sighting, recording them as unidentified flying objects, but suggested they might be cloud formations caused by high winds at considerable altitude.

Poetry on Reincarnation

The issue includes two poems on the theme of reincarnation. The first, attributed to Dante Gabriel Rossetti, explores a sense of having been somewhere before and a deep, innate recognition of familiar surroundings. The second poem, by Eva Gore Booth, addresses an "ancient, childlike soul" that has lived through many lives, serving as a priestess and guarding a sacred flame through centuries of change and fate, including the "dream of Rome inviolate."

Wilbert Smith's Poem

A poem titled "Words of Comfort" is presented as being found among the personal effects of Wilbert Smith, who passed away in the hospital. The poem reflects on faith, divine guidance, and finding solace in God's care, with certain words underlined by Smith during his struggle with illness.

Editorial Stance and Future Outlook

The editorial commentary suggests that while great events are imminent, humanity is largely unprepared for the "New Age of Cosmic Consciousness" and the physical and spiritual changes it will bring. The author believes that UFO visits will increase due to forthcoming world events and physical changes in the Solar System, leading more people to become believers. There is an emphasis on the need for those with knowledge of Cosmic Consciousness to be ready to help others through these adjustments.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the intersection of religious doctrine and the possibility of extraterrestrial life, the practical implications of space exploration for religious missions, and the ongoing investigation into UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of anticipation for significant future events, a belief in the increasing prevalence of UFO sightings, and a call for preparedness and spiritual awareness in the face of cosmic changes. The inclusion of poetry on reincarnation suggests an interest in broader metaphysical and spiritual concepts beyond typical UFO reporting.