AI Magazine Summary
The Ufologer - 1958 01 - January-February - Vol 2 No 2
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Title: The Ufologer Issue: Vol. 2, No. 2 Date: January - February 1958 Publisher: The Ufologer Editors: James Villard and Dan Washburn
Magazine Overview
Title: The Ufologer
Issue: Vol. 2, No. 2
Date: January - February 1958
Publisher: The Ufologer
Editors: James Villard and Dan Washburn
This issue of The Ufologer, a bi-monthly publication dedicated to the study of flying saucers, aims to present what it considers the truth about UFOs to a growing audience interested in this new field, which it terms "Ufology."
Introduction
Robert K. Krandall provides a brief introduction to the magazine, explaining that "The Ufologer" is a bi-monthly publication focused on flying saucers. He notes that the term "Ufology" comes from the official Air Force term "U.F.O." (Unidentified Flying Objects) and that a "Ufologer" is a person who studies this subject. The magazine is published in Washington, D.C., and is priced at 35¢ per issue or $2.00 for a one-year subscription. Readers are encouraged to submit articles and photographs.
The Flying Saucer Scene in the United States
By John McCoy, this report details McCoy's extensive lecture tour across the United States with Dr. George Hunt Williamson since October 1957. McCoy expresses his amazement at the UFO phenomenon and notes that while he once predicted large-scale public lectures, he now believes the average American's interest is more nuanced. He suggests that the UFO field is attracting individuals willing to change their thinking and lives, forming a "hard nucleus" of dedicated individuals. McCoy also mentions that the "Inner Circle" of interested parties is where "fantastic material" is being discovered. He contrasts this with the past, where large numbers attended lectures, but today, a more refined audience is present. The article also points out that the photo on the cover is a fake, created by August C. Roberts, with the objects being superimposed street lights.
Saucer Animals?
Gray Barker, author of "They Knew Too Much About Flying Saucers," discusses the possibility of UFOs being "saucer animals." He recounts an incident on June 30, 1954, where Capt. James Howard of BOAC spotted seven black flying objects that trailed his plane for 80 miles. One object was described as a "flying jellyfish" that constantly changed shape. Barker explores the idea that if UFOs are solid, metallic objects, their amorphous nature is puzzling. He proposes that these could be advanced technological machines or, alternatively, biological entities living in the upper atmosphere. He likens them to single-celled animals like amoebas, which can take on various shapes. Barker suggests that such atmospheric creatures, if they descended, would increase in density and could not be easily affected by conventional means. He also touches on the possibility of them glowing and creating electrical disturbances. While acknowledging that this "animal" theory doesn't explain all sightings, including "little men" or metal fragments, he suggests it's a possible explanation for some phenomena, alongside the possibility of "beings from other planets."
Flammarion, Pioneer of the Infinite
By Henry Serrano, this article profiles Camille Flammarion, a renowned French astronomer from the turn of the century. Flammarion is described as a scientist with a deep interest in spiritual matters, whose works blended mysticism with scientific inquiry. His research on the Moon, Venus, and Mars, along with his book "Lumen: Experiences in the Infinite," explored speculative topics such as the history of the universe, time, and space. Flammarion believed Mars was inhabited and that vegetable life existed on the Moon. The article highlights his understanding of light's travel time from celestial bodies, illustrating the concept that we see the past history of the heavens. Flammarion died in 1925, and the author suggests that if he were alive today, he would be at the forefront of scientific investigation into phenomena like UFOs.
The Earth from 1000 Miles Up
By Major Wayne S. Aho, this piece offers a perspective on Earth from a high altitude, describing it as a beautiful mosaic of colors and designs. Aho suggests that this elevated viewpoint fosters tolerance and understanding, making earthly problems appear smaller. He poses questions about the nature of space, the universe, and the origin of UFOs, suggesting an "intelligent plan" behind it all. He reflects on the rapid technological advancements made by humanity and questions how humans will use their newfound knowledge. Aho also contemplates the advanced nature of those piloting UFOs and the varying degrees of civilization they might represent. He notes the common reactions to such phenomena: believers, doubters, scoffers, and outright ignorance.
Flash Reports and Editorials
Several short reports and editorial notes are included:
- Flash Report: A statement attributed to British Air Marshal Chief Lord Dowding is presented, in which he admits to communicating with fallen British and German pilots and states that flying saucers are real and from outer space, with the U.S. government aware but afraid to admit it due to fear of panic. Lord Dowding is identified as a Spiritualist.
- George Adamski: A rumor suggests Adamski claimed governments would release UFO truth between February 10-20, and that sightings would occur worldwide on the 13th. Adamski is also mentioned as offering a booklet called "Cosmic Science" for $1.00 and a mental telepathy course for $12.00.
- Call to Congress: Readers are urged to write to Congress on July 4, 1958, requesting the release of UFO information labeled "For Official Use Only" at the Pentagon.
- Radio Program: The editors appeared on the Long John Radio Program on WOR Radio in New York and encourage listeners to tune in.
- Catholic Priest's View: A Catholic Priest is quoted as saying that saucers are possible and that there might be other intelligent beings in the universe. He suggests these beings could be a different race created by God and that their existence might not harm Christianity but could shed light upon it.
- Foreign Service Journal: The editor has been asked to write a special article for the Foreign Service Journal, to be published in April, alongside an article by rocket expert Von Braun.
- Great Western University: An advertisement for a non-profit teaching fellowship is included.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The issue consistently emphasizes the growing importance and scientific legitimacy of Ufology. There's a strong undercurrent of spiritual and metaphysical exploration, linking UFO phenomena to broader concepts of consciousness, New Age thinking, and the nature of reality. The editors express a commitment to uncovering and disseminating the "truth" about flying saucers, encouraging reader participation and discussion. The stance is generally pro-UFO, viewing the subject as a significant area of study with profound implications for humanity's understanding of the universe and its place within it. There's also a recurring theme of skepticism towards mainstream explanations and a belief that governments may be withholding information.
This issue of The UFOloger, dated Page 10, focuses on various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, including personal accounts, alleged hoaxes, and theological implications. The magazine presents itself as a source of information for those interested in flying saucers and related topics.
Articles and Reports
The Reinhold Schmidt Case
The issue details the experience of Reinhold Schmidt in Kearney, Nebraska, who reported a UFO landing and contact with strange beings. Following his account, two psychiatrists diagnosed him with 'FIXATION' and he was committed to Hastings State Mental Hospital without a trial. The article highlights the lack of due process and the swiftness with which Schmidt was institutionalized. His attorneys in Omaha are reportedly suing those who mistreated him. A communication from Schmidt indicates the Air Force is now interested, and a portion of a letter from the Air Force expresses support for his lawsuit.
UFO Sightings in California Linked to Lectures
A special report by John McCoy details five singular events that occurred in the Los Angeles area during Dr. George Hunt Williamson's lecture tour in January 1958. Following Dr. Williamson's lectures, UFOs were sighted over Rosemead, Pomona, Pasadena, and Ventura. The objects were described as large red lights that maneuvered in various ways. A similar sighting occurred in Vista on January 11, 1958, over the Vista Recreation Center.
'The Third Eye' Hoax Exposed
This section announces the exposure of the book 'The Third Eye' as a complete fraud. The author, Cyril Henry Hoskins, a plumber's son from Plympton, Ireland, was found to be living near Dublin. He wrote the book under the pseudonym Lama T. Lobsang Rampa. The book, published in November 1956 and sold over 300,000 copies in 12 countries, claimed Hoskins had clairvoyant powers granted by the Dalai Lama. A private investigator, Clifford Burgess, discovered that Hoskins is a British subject who had never been to Tibet and is not a Lama. Hoskins, now 47, is reportedly suffering from coronary thrombosis and has earned nearly $50,000 from the book. The publishers have suspended plans for his next book, 'Medical Lama'.
Photographic Evidence and Fakes
The magazine notes the inclusion of several photographs in this issue and states an intention to include more in future issues. It explains that the cover photo, taken by August C. Roberts, is a fake, created by superimposing a streetlight onto a New York City night scene to demonstrate how easily UFO photos can be faked. A photo attributed to Robert Stevens, claimed to be real, is also presented, with the magazine expressing skepticism. Another photo, taken by Mr. Leadford in Anaheim, California, is also featured. The issue also highlights photos by Buck Nelson, taken at his Mountain View Ranch in Montana, and mentions that Nelson lost his state unemployment pension due to being deemed 'crazy,' though the magazine suggests this was due to his involvement with a space club.
Kenneth Arnold and Uranium Discovery
A 'FLASH' item reports that Kenneth Arnold, credited with originating the term 'saucer,' has discovered uranium in the West and is selling property with uranium on it.
Gerhart Heim's New Theory
Another 'FLASH' item introduces Gerhart Heim, a 19-year-old rocket genius from Hamburg, Germany, who has apparently developed a new theory. Despite losing both arms, his sight, and most of his hearing in an accident, Heim claims to be working on a theory involving 4th, 5th, and 6th dimensional planes. He concludes that light, magnetic force, and electricity are all the same force in different forms and can be converted into one another, potentially powering rockets.
The Impact of Flying Saucers Upon Theology
Darold Powers explores the impact of flying saucers on theology, particularly within the context of 'New Age' thought. He posits that the emergence of UFO phenomena has contributed to a spiritual vacuum created by the decline of traditional religion's influence in the face of scientific advancement. New Age theology is described as a departure from orthodoxy, characterized by a less God-centered view, an emphasis on personal growth, and a concept of man as his own savior. The article suggests that UFO contact stories often contain prophetic references, linking them to both authentic prophecies and a desire for escape from current global anxieties, such as the arms race. Powers expresses concern about the escapist tendencies within some UFO enthusiast circles, urging a focus on creating peace rather than anticipating a catastrophic purification.
Editorials and News Briefs
Several brief news items are presented. One mentions that Reginald Jones, former Chief of Scientific Intelligence for the British Air Force, hoaxed the Nazis during WWII with a fake radio beam. Another notes that Thomas G. Lanphier, Jr. testified before the Senate Preparedness Subcommittee about the need to prepare for 'space machines and space men.' Col. Lanphier is now Vice-President of Convair. The Russians are reportedly searching for the Abominable Snowman in Siberia. The editor also notes that Marshall Lachner, who sponsored Frank Edward's program, is no longer associated with the Pabst Brewing Company. The issue also mentions the absence of an article by Mr. Washburn on metaphysics and announces that the next issue will be released on April 18, 1958. A segment on Major Keyhoe's TV appearance, where he was cut off air for deviating from a script about a secret congressional committee, is also included.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently promotes a skeptical yet open-minded approach to UFO phenomena. It highlights alleged hoaxes and exposes fraudulent claims, such as the 'Third Eye' book, while also presenting accounts of sightings and theories. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging critical thinking and awareness of potential deception, as seen in the discussion of photographic fakes and the caution against gullibility. The magazine also explores the broader societal and philosophical implications of UFOs, particularly their influence on religious and theological thought, suggesting a shift towards 'New Age' philosophies in response to a perceived spiritual vacuum. The editors encourage reader participation through submissions and subscriptions.
Title: The UFOloger
Issue: Unknown
Date: Unknown
Publisher: Unknown
Country: Unknown
Language: English
This issue of The UFOloger presents photographic evidence related to unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP). The magazine features images and brief descriptions, promising more detailed explanations elsewhere within the publication.
Featured Photographs and Incidents
The issue highlights photographs attributed to Buck Nelson, a well-known figure in the UFOlogy community. One image shows Buck Nelson himself, while another, taken by Nelson at his ranch in Montana, is also presented.
A significant portion of the content is dedicated to a photograph taken by J. G. Kirby near Amarillo, Texas, in August 1956. This photograph captured a "strange light" that was subsequently confiscated by both the FBI and the Air Force. According to the accompanying text, Kirby stated that the object weaved through and around a frontal cloud, emitting a green glowing trail that appeared to strike the ground. The caption specifically draws attention to a "diamond shaped object at the bottom of the trail."
Further Information
The text explicitly states that explanations for these and other photos can be found "elsewhere in this issue." This suggests that the presented images serve as an introduction to more in-depth articles or reports contained within the magazine.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring theme is the presentation of photographic evidence of UAP. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and documentation, as indicated by the mention of official confiscation by government agencies (FBI and Air Force) and the promise of detailed explanations. The focus on specific details like the shape of an object and the nature of its trail suggests a commitment to analyzing such phenomena.
Object Characteristics
Based on the descriptions and images:
- Shape: The object in the Kirby photograph is described as "diamond shaped" at the bottom of its trail. The "strange light" itself is not given a specific shape, but the trail suggests a dynamic form.
- Color: The trail emitted by the object was "green glowing."
- Behavior: The object "weaved through and around a frontal cloud."
- Physical Trace Evidence: A "green glowing trail which apparently hit the ground."
Other characteristics such as size, speed, and altitude are not specified in the provided text.