UFO Newsletter no 8

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO NEWSLETTER
Issue: #8
Date: 24 June 1957
Publisher: null
Country: U.S.A.
Language: English
Price: $2.50 the year, single copy 30¢

This issue of the UFO NEWSLETTER is the official publication of the North Jersey UFO Group (NJUFOG), under the editorial direction of Lee R. Munsick. It is a publication of a civilian research organization, published 10 times a year.

Departments

The "Departments" section includes Editorials, Letters, a "Who's Who in Ufology" feature on Ivan T. Sanderson, "The Fourth Estate: Philadelphia" (focusing on the press), "News Pickups," "News Notes In Space We Don't Have," "UFO Publications," Subscription Information, "Unsensational and Not Confidential," Book Reviews, and an "Azimuth Heading Indicator" which includes a "UFO News Source Index - Save This."

Articles

The "Articles" section features "The Will to Believe Vs. Common Sense" by Jules B. St. Germain, "Psychism and Flying Saucers" by Gertrude O. Tubby, BS, "What Is Going on in Britain's Skies?" by Bryan G. Essenhigh, "Arend Roland Falls Short..." by Dr. I. M. Levitt, and "The Strange Hole in the Weather Bureau" by Lee R. Munsick.

Sightings

This section includes "Five Emelly, Foamy, Icelike Objects" reported by United Press, "Report from Japan," a piece titled "Did Admiral Byrd See a UFO?", "More on the Van Winkle Case," and "Who Says Astronomers Don't?"

News Items

"News Items" covers "Munsick Named to NICAP Post," "More Troubles on the Way," "LIFE Magazine and 'Metaphysics'," "Your Move, Dr. Dryden," "UFO Pix and Georgia's Silent Senator," "The Case (Justin) for the UFO-er," "Letter Writing-Immediate Results," and "Another Plea for Ethics."

Notices

This section announces an "International Literary Competition" and "Coming in the Next Issue," along with "Reprints of Sanderson Article."

Editorials

The main editorial, dated June 24, 1957, reflects on the decade since Kenneth Arnold's sighting on June 24, 1947. It notes how the initial reports were treated with skepticism but have since gained notoriety. The editorial criticizes journalists who speak derisively of those who report UFOs or seek explanations. It proposes a five-point plan for ufology for the next decade, emphasizing competent investigation, governmental and press involvement, support for civilian research, and encouraging scientific interest while weeding out undesirable elements within the field.

Postal Troubles

This section addresses issues with mail delivery of previous issues and rising publishing costs, leading to a reduction in the free circulation list. The editor expresses regret and hopes readers will understand. It also criticizes the Postmaster General and discusses the need for Congress to address postal rates, particularly bulk rates, to support the dissemination of knowledge.

Back Copies and "UFO" Predominates

Information is provided on available back issues of the UFO NEWSLETTER. A note highlights the trend of magazines using "UFO" in their titles, even if they don't explicitly use "flying saucers."

Guest Editorial: "UFO" Predominates

This guest editorial discusses the rise of conjecture and potential fanaticism surrounding UFOs. It warns against "saucer worship" and suggests that while strange craft may be using higher spectrums for communication, attempts to deify UFOs should be approached with caution. It also critiques the repetition of messages from supposed extraterrestrials regarding human behavior and development, suggesting these are already covered in religious and moral texts.

Light, publication of the Queensland Flying Saucer Bureau

This short piece quotes Admiral William Fechteler on the backlog of classified World War II documents and mentions a United Press report about astronomers demanding higher salaries.

Letters

• Several letters are included:
• E. Biddle from London congratulates the publication.
• Joe Hollendorfer from Akron UFO Research Association subscribes.
• Rev. Leon C. LeVan from Pittsburgh is impressed and inquires about back copies, also mentioning his involvement with NICAP.
• Elizabeth Borries from Irving, Texas, expresses her enjoyment and offers to send cash for newsletters.
• Francis J. Price, Editor of BULLETIN OF THE JUNIOR ASTRONOMY CLUB, corrects an item about Navy fliers and the Einstein theory, suggesting a typo regarding 'satellite' versus 'star'.
• Don Wysocki, Editor of THE VISITOR, clarifies that his publication is not affiliated with the Study Group on Interplanetary Relations and corrects information about its editorship.
• Gabriel Green, Editor of THY KINGDOM COME, claims to have coined the term "senspacetional."
• Cyril Ritchard from New York thanks the editor for his letter and article.
• B. M. Wood from Upper Montclair, N.J., requests removal from the mailing list.

Secrecy and Constitutional Rights

Thomas C. Hennings, Jr., Chairman of the Subcommittee on Constitutional Rights, acknowledges the interest in government secrecy and plans to hold hearings, potentially including testimony on "Unidentified Flying Objects."

And We Think We're Busy!

Sgt. Regular R.N.Z.A.F. (Engineering) discusses the difficulty of keeping up with numerous UFO research groups worldwide due to limited off-duty hours. The publication's purpose is to investigate, disseminate, and correlate findings.

Observes Observers

Raymond Angier from Marietta, Ohio, shares his personal UFO sightings since July 1952, noting the objects' behavior and altitudes. He also notes the closure of Len Stringfield's bulletin, "The ORBIT."

Flying Saucer Review Competition

An announcement for an International Literary Competition by FLYING SAUCER REVIEW, inviting articles on flying saucer phenomena, with a word count of 1500-2500 words and a deadline of August 2nd.

The Will to Believe Vs. Commonsense

By Jules B. St. Germain, this article critically examines the "will to believe" among some UFO researchers. St. Germain discusses the "H. O." incident, exposing a hoax he orchestrated involving George Van Tassel and his publication "PROCEEDINGS OF THE COLLEGE OF UNIVERSAL WISDOM." Van Tassel had published faked photographs of a toy saucer and cocktail shaker, claiming they were "thought discs" and "conclusive evidence." St. Germain argues that this incident highlights a dangerous tendency among some in the fringe group to accept mystical or occult explanations over evidence, and that this "will to believe" can lead to gullibility and financial exploitation, such as Van Tassel's plea for $60,000 for a rejuvenation machine.

Bad Day at Giant Rock

This article details the "H. O." incident hoax, explaining how Jules St. Germain cooperated with the editor of UFO NEWSLETTER to test Van Tassel's ethics. The article describes the fake photographs and Van Tassel's subsequent defense. It also mentions St. Germain's background as an attorney and his role as Legal Adviser to Civilian Saucer Intelligence of New York.

Charlotte, N.C. Sighting

A United Press report from Charlotte, N.C., describes a sighting by W. B. Brown of five "strange floating" objects. One object veered off and hit the ground, described as "foamlike but clear," leaving a smell "like burned matches" and feeling "slimy" and "cooling or numbing" to the touch. The Weather Bureau reported no other similar phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the anniversary of the Kenneth Arnold sighting, the state of UFO research and its challenges (including skepticism and the need for scientific rigor), the role of the press and government, and the critique of "contactee" claims and the "will to believe" phenomenon. The editorial stance is one of advocating for serious, evidence-based research, transparency from authorities, and a critical approach to sensational claims, while also acknowledging the growing interest in the subject.

This issue of UFO NEWSLETTER, dated July 1, 1956, focuses on the intersection of psychism and flying saucers, alongside reports of various aerial phenomena and scientific observations. The cover prominently features the title "PSYCHISM AND FLYING SAUCERS" by Gertrude Ogden Tubby, B.S.

Psychism and Flying Saucers by Gertrude Ogden Tubby

Gertrude Ogden Tubby, a respected figure in psychism with an academic background in math, physics, and chemistry, draws parallels between the public discourse surrounding UFOs and historical discussions of psychic experiences. She notes that both fields have faced similar skepticism and accusations of deception. Tubby expresses keen interest in stellar and interstellar news, emphasizing the need for a solid foundation of facts in scientific discovery. She highlights her own academic and professional background, including her work with Dr. James H. Hyslop at the American Society for Psychical Research and her authorship of books on psychical research.

International Geophysical Year and Solar Storm

President Eisenhower's announcement regarding the start of the International Geophysical Year (IGY) is mentioned. This event was immediately followed by a significant solar storm that disrupted shortwave radio broadcasting, blanketing the Earth with atomic particles and radiation. The article notes the potential impact of such events on future space endeavors, questioning if artificial satellites might be affected.

Who's Who in UFOLOGY: Ivan Terence Sanderson

This section profiles Ivan Terence Sanderson, a naturalist and UFO researcher. Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1911, Sanderson's early life was marked by extensive travel with his family. He pursued degrees in Geology, Zoology, and Botany from Cambridge University. His career involved numerous expeditions for institutions like the British Museum of Natural History, collecting scientific specimens and publishing popular books such as "Animal Treasure" and "Caribbean Treasure." Sanderson has also written children's books and articles for various magazines. He has been collecting UFO information for over 25 years and is a member of several UFO research organizations. Currently, he runs a business involving rare animals and animal importing. The profile also mentions his regular appearances on the CBS Television Garry Moore Show and his pioneering work in color television broadcasting.

Reports from Japan

Japanese Report Strange Glowing Objects: On April 20, 1956, residents in Nagoya, Japan, reported seeing mysterious airborne objects, unofficially said to have been detected by U.S. Air Force radar. The objects were described as red with yellow rings, with one exhibiting oscillating movements and a blue-green trail. Another local resident reported seeing two objects, one blue-white, escorting the first. These objects made an abrupt turn and ascended rapidly and silently.

USAF Radar and Japanese Sightings: An unofficial report suggested that a U.S. Air Force base near Komaki registered "bogeys" on its radar sets, though no official confirmation was given.

Fiery Red Object Over Tachikawa: Four days later, airmen at the Tachikawa air base witnessed a "fiery red object" flash across the sky, appearing like a burning plane but flying horizontally at a speed estimated to be ten times larger than any star.

Japanese Sailors Watch Two Silvery Discs Dive into Ocean: On April 19, 1956, five crew members of a Japanese fishing boat reported seeing two silvery metallic objects descend from the sky and dive into the sea, causing significant turbulence. The objects, nearly disc-shaped and approximately 10 meters long, were observed to have no wings. No wreckage was found.

Japanese Rocket Expert Says Saucers Not Fiction: Dr. Hideo Itokawa, a leading Japanese rocket expert and professor at Tokyo University, stated his belief that flying saucers are not fiction and theorized they might be manifestations of extraterrestrial life. His remarks were included in his book "Picnic for Space."

What Is Going On in Britain's Skies?

This article by Bryan G. Essenhigh, UK Representative for UFO NEWSLETTER, discusses a "flap" of UFO activity in Britain. Initially, UFO sightings had been scarce, with the press giving them minimal attention. However, activity increased following a letter from Fred Stone of the Australian Flying Saucer Research Society.

Wardle Sighting: On February 15, a "something" descended over Wardle, Lancashire. Described as circular with a brilliant white glow and a smaller, color-changing sphere suspended beneath it, the object made steady, straight-line movements and was silent. A 19-year-old girl reported it hovering near her home before ascending.

West Freugh Radar Case: On April 6, two radar operators at the Ministry of Supply Station at West Freugh, Scotland, detected a blip moving at over 11 miles altitude, described as "too fast, too big, and too maneuverable to have been a plane."

Channel Radar Sighting: On April 30, a radar set in the Metropolitan London area defense chain detected an object streaking down the English Channel at a reported speed of 1000 m.p.h. Two Javelin jet fighters were scrambled but could not catch it. Initial press reports suggested explanations like a plane or mechanical radar fault, then a French Air Force Mirage jet, and finally a "new British plane," but these were all met with skepticism and denial.

Parliamentary Discussion: The issue of UFOs was raised in the House of Commons by MP Tony Leavey, who questioned the explanation for the Wardle UFO. The Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Air agreed to appoint investigators. Major Patrick Wall also posed questions about UFO detections in Britain.

Official Explanations and Skepticism: The article critiques official explanations, such as the Wardle UFO being attributed to Neil Robinson's toy balloons (which were deemed insufficient) or the West Freugh radar object being a runaway weather balloon or meteorite. The speed and maneuverability of the detected objects were inconsistent with conventional aircraft. The article questions why radar stations were forbidden to release information if the objects were merely weather balloons.

The Channel 'Flap' Explained (and Unexplained): The TIMES suggested the 1000 m.p.h. blip could be a plane or radar fault. The EVENING NEWS identified it as a 1100 m.p.h. French Air Force Mirage jet, but this was denied. The DAILY EXPRESS suggested it might be a "new British plane." The Secretary for Air stated five unidentified objects had been detected that year, along with two Hunter jets on a training flight, noting that Hunters were not capable of four-figure speeds.

Unexplained Mysteries and Questions

The article concludes by posing several questions regarding the Wardle and West Freugh cases, highlighting inconsistencies in official statements and the lack of disclosure. It questions why only one object was reported when two were involved, why it took 16 days to announce the UFOs were airplanes, and why the RAF seemed unaware of the "training flight."

Contact Information and Standardization Appeal

Bryan G. Essenhigh's contact information for those wishing to reach NJUFOG is provided. The editors of THE FLYING SAUCER in Sao Paulo, Brazil, issued an appeal to standardize units of measurement, time, and weight in UFO reports to simplify analysis. They proposed using meters, kilometers per hour, degrees centigrade, GMT, and US dollars. However, NJUFOG expressed caution, suggesting that publications should use systems common to their country of publication to avoid confusion and discourage reporting.

Comet Arend-Roland Falls Short

Dr. I. M. Levitt, Director of the Fels Planetarium, discusses Comet Arend-Roland (1956h). Discovered on November 6, 1956, it was initially thought to rival Halley's Comet but proved to be a disappointment. Its brightness at perihelion was diminished by its proximity to the sun. While visible in the evening sky in April, its tail appeared shorter than expected. Levitt notes that the Twentieth Century is expected to be a significant era for comets. He also mentions that Rear Admiral Delmer Fahrney, known for his statements on UFOs, is Secretary of the Institute. Levitt implies that another "incredible decade" for comets might occur towards the end of the century.

The Strange Hole in the Weather Bureau

Lee R. Munsick reports on the "Hole in the Sky" phenomenon observed in Knoxville, Tennessee. Initially explained away by government officials, an earlier explanation involving jet aircraft producing ice crystals was revised. T. W. Kleinsasser, Meteorologist in Charge at the Knoxville Weather Bureau, offered a more detailed explanation: the hole likely formed in a cloud deck of super-cooled water droplets when an ice crystal upset the colloidal equilibrium, causing the droplets to grow at the expense of the water. This chain reaction could lead to snow particles falling out, leaving a hole that expands. Kleinsasser noted that the origin of the initial ice crystals remained a question, proposing three possible explanations: snow crystals falling from a higher cirrus cloud, a snow-generating cell within the cloud, or a variation of the original explanation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the investigation of unidentified aerial phenomena, the challenges of scientific explanation versus public skepticism, and the role of government agencies in addressing these events. The editorial stance appears to favor open-minded inquiry into UFOs, while also acknowledging the importance of rigorous scientific investigation and factual evidence, as exemplified by Gertrude Tubby's approach. The magazine also highlights the work of researchers like Ivan Sanderson and the efforts to standardize reporting in the field. There is a clear emphasis on presenting diverse perspectives, from those who see connections to psychism to those focused on scientific analysis and potential extraterrestrial origins.

This issue of SAUCERS magazine, dated July 1957, is the 25th issue of volume 27. It is published by King Size Publications and focuses on UFO phenomena, media coverage, and related controversies. The cover headline highlights the "silenced representative" from Georgia, suggesting government secrecy surrounding UFOs.

Article: Weather Phenomenon and Official Explanations

The issue begins by discussing a cloud phenomenon observed in Washington, where the Weather Bureau initially offered an explanation involving ice crystals from jet contrails. The article questions the validity of this explanation, pointing out the lack of reported jet planes in the vicinity and the conflicting answers from different branches of the Weather Department. It also questions why no supporting phenomena like snow were observed and why the opening of the investigation was a "ROUND."

Article: Former NJUFOG Chairman Appointed to NICAP

The North Jersey UFO Group (NJUFOG) announced that its publication's editor, Mr. Munsick, has been appointed Associate Editor of the new national publication, UFO INVESTIGATOR. This publication is associated with the National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena (NICAP) and will be headed by Donald E. Keyhoe. Mr. Munsick, who has a background in journalism and public relations, will continue to edit his own magazine, UFO NEWSLETTER, independently of NICAP. Correspondence for NJUFOG publications should be directed to UFO NEWSLETTER.

Article: "The Fourth Estate" - Philadelphia Press Reaction

This section critiques the editorial stance of two Philadelphia papers, the Philadelphia News and the Philadelphia Inquirer, regarding UFOs. Both papers are accused of expressing "colossal ignorance" on the subject. The article reprints editorials side-by-side, suggesting readers send their comments to the papers. It specifically mentions Rear Adm. Delmer S. Fahrney (ret.), who believes unidentified flying objects are directed by "intelligent beings," and notes that he has never seen any "objects" himself. The Inquirer's editorial dismisses flying saucer witnesses' stories as not being "good story."

Article: More Troubles on the Way

This piece discusses the proliferation of modified aircraft designs that could be mistaken for UFOs. It mentions a huge Lockheed plane with a "flying saucer" radar "parasol" and a twin-fin tail, as well as a smaller Grumman WF-2 Navy early warning craft with a large umbrella-like antenna. The article suggests that when seen at certain angles against a bright sky, these planes might cause "saucer reports." It also mentions a VTO jet and a STOL Navy plane with unusual flight characteristics.

Article: Life Magazine and "Metaphysics"

This section addresses the intersection of Ufology and metaphysics. It clarifies that a LIFE editorial was misunderstood, as it quoted an advertisement from the Martin Company discussing photon propulsion and the concept of timelessness. The article explains that the advertisement was about physics and metaphysics related to space travel, not directly about UFOs.

Article: Your Move, Dr. Dryden

This article details the ongoing argument between Dr. Hugh L. Dryden of the National Advisory Committee on Aeronautics (NACA) and Major Donald E. Keyhoe regarding the existence of flying saucers. Dryden had stated before a Congressional Subcommittee that flying saucers did not exist and that Germans did not have them in 1945. Keyhoe challenged Dryden to provide proof, threatening to dissolve NICAP if Dryden could. Dryden responded by stating his views were personal opinions based on accessible facts. The article criticizes Dryden for avoiding Keyhoe's questions and suggests his testimony was either in error or deliberately false. The press is also criticized for inaccurately labeling Dryden as a "Flying Saucer Expert."

Article: Did Admiral Byrd See a UFO?

This section presents an excerpt from Rear Admiral Richard E. Byrd's diary from April 9, 1933, describing a "curious phenomenon" that appeared as a ball of fire. After observation with field glasses, it was identified as four brilliant stars close together or one star with three images refracted by ice crystals. The article also mentions an unsigned article in AMERICAN MERCURY suggesting the secret about UFOs will soon be revealed by the Defense Department.

Article: Who Says Astronomers Don't?

This piece highlights a UFO sighting by two unnamed observers with impressive qualifications, including membership in the Association of Lunar and Planetary Observers and the American Association of Variable Star Observers. The observation occurred on January 1, 1957, from Brooklyn, New York. The UFO was seen in Orion, shone with a bright orange light, and then changed course before dwindling. The observers stressed it was not a meteor, astronomical body, or airplane.

Article: More on the Van Winkle Case

This article provides an update on the Pan American World Airways pull-up incident reported by Captain Mathew Van Winkle. It mentions that other UFO periodicals have revealed new information from Pan-Am pilots. CSI NEWS LETTER and S.P.A.C.E. reported that Van Winkle's primary concern was the reaction of the auto-pilot to being overridden, and he recommended pilots be careful not to over-correct the autopilot. The article also notes that Captain William B. Nash, who saw eight glowing objects over Virginia in 1952, believes discs were intelligently controlled machines from outer space.

Coming in the Next Issue

Teasers for the next issue include articles on "Uf omythology," "Government and Secrecy," "The Flying Saucer Controversy Goes on Tape," "Preliminary Report on Mars," "Cossip Columns and Flying Saucers," and "A Primer in Ufology."

Article: UFO Pix and Georgia's Silent Senator

This section discusses the resemblance between the George Stock "Passaic" photos and the Fregnale UFO photographs. It notes that these photos were taken on two continents within two weeks of each other in July 1952, shortly before and after the Washington radar buzzings. The article also reprints a column about Senator Richard B. Russell of Georgia, who admitted seeing "aerial objects" in Europe but claimed he was coerced by the Air Force not to publicize the matter. The author expresses concern that such a respected senator could be silenced by the Air Force or the CIA.

Article: Fantastic Universe Magazine Reprint

FANTASTIC UNIVERSE Magazine has reprinted an article on UFOs by Ivan T. Sanderson due to overwhelming reaction. The article, titled "An Introduction to Ufology," is available by request.

Article: Howard Menger and M. K. Jessup

This piece notes a parallel between statements made by Howard Menger, a "contactor," and M. K. Jessup, author of "The Expanding Case for the UFO." Menger is writing a book about his experiences and claims to have been questioned by a U.S. Government agency. Jessup lost a $25,000 contract due to his books on flying saucers and believes the FBI should "decode" strange names appearing in Washington directories.

Article: The Case (Justin) for the UFO-er

Justin Case contributes an article discussing the "Two Lights That Failed-And A Third?" which examines the CSI investigation headed by Edward Sullivan. The CSI investigation, after two years of work, closed down due to a lack of full-time staff, leaving its files of 1000 reports without a taker. A second investigation, "Project A" at Ohio Northern University, also closed due to a lack of cooperation. Case suggests that NICAP, headed by Donald E. Keyhoe, represents a "golden opportunity" and urges cooperation, warning that further opportunities to solve the saucer mystery might not arise.

Article: Letter Writing-Immediate Results

This section emphasizes the importance of impressing upon journalists and periodicals the significance of sound thought on the UFO question. It suggests writing letters to the editor as a method to influence coverage. Mr. Munsick is noted to have achieved surprising results with this approach, with his letters appearing in the WASHINGTON DAILY NEWS, AIR FORCE Magazine, and LIFE. The article encourages more conservative individuals to write letters to influence journalists to cover UFOs more seriously.

Article: Another Plea for Ethics

This article calls for a return to common sense and good business ethics in UFO magazine publishing, citing an incident involving Max B. Miller, editor of SAUCERS. Miller was listed as "West-Coast Editor" for a new professional saucer magazine without his permission. The article criticizes the new magazine for lifting reviews from FLYING SAUCER REVIEW without credit or permission, and for its high price. It also notes that the contents of UFO NEWSLETTER are copyrighted and require express permission for reprinting.

News Pickups

• This section provides brief news items:
• The July edition of FANTASTIC UNIVERSE features articles on the "Angel Hair" phenomenon and UFOs, including a series by Ivan T. Sanderson and an article based on Lester Del Rey's speech.
• The "Contact Cases" article in FANTASTIC UNIVERSE discusses similarities in experiences of contactees like Truman Bethurum and Howard Menger, with a focus on "golden haired men and women from other planets."
• Three International Flying Saucer Sighting Days have been announced for June, July, and September, organized by Flying Saucer Service Ltd. Observers are encouraged to note times, use binoculars, and send detailed reports, including measurements.

News Notes

• This section contains several brief news items:
• The Air Force Association Convention and Airpower Panorama will celebrate the golden anniversary of the U.S. Air Force, featuring a special commemorative stamp.
• A Soviet Union observation center has been established near Moscow to study the skies, particularly northern lights, raising questions about their interest in astronomical phenomena.
• Lear Inc. has announced its newest aviation-guiding gadget called MARS (Master Altitude Reference System).
• The Air Force revealed a new Telescopic Photographic Recorder capable of tracking and photographing objects up to four miles away.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the critical examination of official explanations for UFO phenomena, the importance of ethical reporting and publishing in the UFO field, and the ongoing debate about the existence and nature of UFOs. The magazine consistently questions government secrecy and media irresponsibility concerning UFOs, advocating for a more serious and investigative approach. The editorial stance is clearly pro-UFO investigation, urging readers to be informed and to support organizations like NICAP.

This issue of UFO NEWSLETTER, identified by page number 30, focuses on debunking sensationalized UFO reports and presenting factual investigations. The main cover headline is "UNSENSATIONAL, NOT CONFIDENTIAL," indicating the publication's editorial stance.

The Scoop and The Fact: Professor Cooke

The issue begins by addressing a widely reported story about a British professor, Prof. J. C. Cooke, who allegedly made a startling remark about flying saucers being controlled by intelligent beings from outside Earth. The "scoop" from Reuters stated that Prof. Cooke advised the Science Society of Malaya not to deny the existence of saucers and suggested they might have come to Earth to "save us from ourselves." This was interpreted by many UFO devotees as a bona fide scientist's conclusion supporting their cause.

However, "The Fact" reveals that Professor Cooke, a professor of applied mathematics at the University of Malaya, had only recently read Major Keyhoe's books and mentioned to a friend that he thought there was "something in it." His informal talk before the Society was a "rehash" of Keyhoe's work and a book by Gavin Gibbons, along with his personal opinions. Cooke's original contribution was a word of caution to scientists not to dismiss the topic lightly without examining the evidence, which the newsletter deems admirable but not cause for over-excitement.

The Scoop and The Fact: USS Franklin D. Roosevelt Incident

Another "scoop" discusses stories of strange objects diving into or rising out of water, bolstering theories of UFOs originating underwater. A recent newspaper story reported that the aircraft carrier USS Franklin D. Roosevelt hit a "strange submerged object" off the Florida coast on May 16th, bending a propeller. While the captain rejected the submarine theory, suggesting it could have been a whale, the incident was investigated.

"The Fact" clarifies that one of the ship's huge propellers had a weld failure during aircraft landing exercises, causing a blade to break and shear into the other propeller, producing the shock. There was absolutely no indication of damage on the hull, and the ship was refitted with a new propeller at Newport News. The incident was attributed to mechanical failure, not a mysterious object.

The Scoop and The Fact: Henry J. Taylor's Testimony

The issue highlights the surprise among those new to saucer history regarding headlines about Henry J. Taylor's testimony before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Taylor, a former radio commentator and ambassador to Switzerland, was questioned by Senator H. Alexander Smith. His testimony was interpreted as favoring the acceptance of saucers as fact and suggesting they were extraterrestrial.

"The Fact" states that the testimony was pre-arranged. Taylor's supporters, possibly seeking to mitigate negative press criticism about his saucer remarks, saw an opportunity for him to make a public statement. Senator Smith asked simple questions, and Taylor responded. The newsletter questions whether Taylor might reverse his position in the future, promising a more complete discussion in the next issue.

The Scoop and The Fact: Republic Terrapin Research Missile

A curious disappearance of a Republic Terrapin Research Missile from the University of Maryland Student Union is reported, with a note left behind: "Farewell Earth People." This led to speculation about alien visitors.

"The Fact" reveals that university students dismantled the hollow 50-pound rocket and moved it to the top of the gymnasium. The sign was a prank, and the missile was a device designed by Dr. Fred Singer. The newsletter compares this to other practical jokes, such as a cannon disappearing from West Point's tower, emphasizing that these are earthly pranks, not extraterrestrial events.

Book Reviews

"Mars, The New Frontier - Lowell's Hypothesis" by Wells Alan Webb

This section reviews Wells Alan Webb's book, which expands on Percival Lowell's hypothesis that Mars is inhabited. Webb uses observations of the Martian canals, drawing on work by various scientists. He argues that the canals, which often cross perfectly, are not natural cracks but evidence of intelligent design, comparing their patterns to complex human-made systems like railway networks. The book includes photographs and a chart comparing Martian canal patterns to terrestrial networks. Webb, with a background in chemistry and physics, developed the first commercial source of heavy water.

"Saucer Diary" by Israel Norkin

This review critiques Israel Norkin's "Saucer Diary," published in 1957. The reviewer finds the book's premise, starting with the author feeling books "felt warm in my hands," to be a unique but monotonous presentation of a contactee account. The diary format, spanning from October 1954 to May of the previous year, includes dull entries, letters, and accounts of alleged experiences, referencing groups like the Brotherhood of the Seven Rays and concepts like "earth's polarity." A particularly "insulting" item is Norkin's inference that General Douglas MacArthur's 1955 "spacewar" speech was influenced by Dan Fry's statements, noting the timing of Fry's book publication and MacArthur's speech. The reviewer concludes that while the book might appeal to devotees, it adds nothing new to the overall literature on the subject.

Other News and Notes

• Cornell Aeronautical Lab: Developing a device for testing aircraft and missiles at extreme speeds and temperatures.
• Patrick Moore Quote: "Though it is true to say that we have no proof of intelligent life upon Mars, it is equally true to say that we have no proof that advanced forms of life do not exist."
• Subscription Information: Corrected subscription rates are provided for UFO NEWSLETTER, with an address in Washington, D.C.
• Address Plate Codes: An explanation of codes used on subscriber address plates is given.
• Correction: The mailing address for the National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena (NICAP) was omitted in a previous issue and is now provided.
• Do It Yourself: Instructions are given for creating a simple indicator to measure True North bearing of any object, using a compass and a custom-made dial.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the debunking of sensationalized UFO claims and the promotion of a rational, evidence-based approach to the subject. The editorial stance is clearly against the uncritical acceptance of "inside stories" and emphasizes the need for "calm, objective and sensible material." The publication aims to provide factual accounts and investigations, distinguishing between genuine phenomena and misinterpretations, hoaxes, or sensationalism. The review of "Mars, The New Frontier" shows an interest in scientific inquiry into potential extraterrestrial life, while the critique of "Saucer Diary" highlights a skepticism towards unsubstantiated contactee narratives. The overall tone is one of critical analysis and a desire to maintain credibility in the field of UFO research.