UFOIC Newsletter - No 15

Magazine Overview

Title: U.F.O.I.C. NEWSLETTER
Issue: No. 15
Date: August, 1967
Publisher: U.F.O.I.C. (UFO Information Centre)
Country of Publication: Australia
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of the U.F.O.I.C. Newsletter, dated August 1967, focuses on UFO activity both internationally and within Australia. The editorial notes that the recent visit of U.S. Professor James E. McDonald may have encouraged local newspapers to cover the UFO question more seriously. The newsletter also mentions the omission of an address by the UN Secretary General emphasizing the seriousness of UFO phenomena and suggesting international scientific correlation.

World News

Pilot Flies Near Saucer On May 21st, 1966, William Powell, chief pilot for Sears-Roebuck, reported observing a saucer-shaped UFO with a dome on top while flying at 4,500 ft near Philadelphia. The object, described as reddish and glistening, was estimated to be about 20 feet in diameter. It moved towards a group of Navy jets before suddenly accelerating and disappearing.

UFO Scorches Highway On April 21st, 1967, Clifton N. Crowder of Virginia reported seeing a strange circular object, about 12 feet in diameter and 16 feet tall, on the highway. The object, shaped like a water-tank on legs, burst off with white flame, leaving behind four round holes and blackened, blistered tar on the road. The incident was also witnessed by a tobacco farmer. Later that night, members of the Fort Lee Fire Department observed two blinking, revolving red lights approaching and hovering.

UFO Sightings in Australia

UFO at Wollstonecraft On February 12th, 1967, Mrs. Pile of Wollstonecraft, Sydney, reported seeing a bright object hovering over a nearby building. Using binoculars, she described it as a perfect sphere surrounded by smaller spheres, glowing orange-red and pulsating. The object, estimated to be 2 to 3 moons in width, drifted away and disappeared. Several other independent witnesses reported similar sightings in the area.

Scientific Discussions and Anniversaries

Life on Venus Debated The newsletter discusses the possibility of life on Venus, referencing an image of Earth taken from the moon that resembled Venus as seen through telescopes. Despite high temperature estimates for Venus, the possibility of life is debated, with some scientists suggesting the surface temperature might be only slightly hotter than Earth's.

Twentieth Anniversary of UFO's This section marks the 20th anniversary of the Kenneth Arnold sighting on June 24th, 1947, which is considered the start of the modern 'flying saucer' era. It highlights the ongoing conflict between UFO researchers and scientific/political bodies, and notes the increasing attention UFOs are receiving from military and scientific circles, with reports now coming from urban areas as well as rural ones.

UFO Research and Activities

Colorado University Research Grant Colorado University has received a $300,000 grant for UFO research, with cooperation from the Air Force providing aircraft and restricted information. The article notes that while the research is significant, 18 months of work from a small team is unlikely to yield complete results, but may acknowledge new phenomena rather than extraterrestrial craft.

UFOIC Activities and Professor McDonald's Visit The UFOIC hosted Professor James E. McDonald in Sydney during June and July. He met with witnesses and scientists, including those from the University of Sydney and CSIRO. Professor McDonald discussed the US Air Force's alleged misrepresentation of UFO information. He also gave a lecture to CSIRO Radiophysics Department personnel. Following successful visits to Melbourne, Hobart, and Brisbane, Professor McDonald was a guest speaker at a UFOIC social event. The UFOIC presented him with gifts as appreciation for his stay.

Adyar Hall Meeting A meeting at Adyar Hall on June 6th, 1967, featured a screening of the science fiction film "This Island Earth," which was noted for being based on actual UFO sightings reported in the press.

Newcastle Visit A party of UFOIC committee members visited Newcastle to assist in establishing a local branch, giving a public lecture by President Dr. Lindtner and committee member Mr. F. Phillips. The talks were well-received, indicating potential for an active sub-branch.

Upcoming Events and Membership

Next Social The next social evening is scheduled for September 1st at the President's home. Due to space limitations, only financial members with membership cards will be admitted. Members are requested to bring a plate for refreshments, and visitors are limited to members and their partners.

Review and Correspondence The newsletter expresses concern over the unsatisfactory response from members regarding fee payments, which affects the financing of the next issue of the "Review." Members are urged to pay their dues promptly. Correspondence for the UFOIC should be addressed to the Secretary, G.P.O. Box 4796, Sydney, 2001.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the reporting of UFO sightings, the ongoing scientific research into UFO phenomena, and the activities of the UFOIC organization in promoting awareness and discussion. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious optimism, encouraging more serious investigation and open discussion of UFOs, while acknowledging the challenges and controversies surrounding the subject. There is a clear emphasis on documenting sightings and fostering a scientific approach to the phenomenon.