Uranus - 1954 - Vol 01 No 1 - Whole No 01

Magazine Overview

Title: URANUS SPACE TRAVEL
Issue: Vol. 1 No. 1
Date: August, 1954.
Publisher: MARKHAM HOUSE PRESS LTD.
Country: United Kingdom
Editor: E. BIDDLE.

This inaugural issue of "URANUS SPACE TRAVEL" presents itself as a new periodical dedicated to the serious study of flying saucers. The cover prominently features the title "URANUS" within a banner, accompanied by the tagline "SPACE TRAVEL" and the descriptor "FLYING SAUCERS."

Editorial Comments

The editorial section, titled "Editorial Comments," addresses potential skepticism about the need for another flying saucer periodical in English. The editor, E. Biddle, argues that while superficially there might seem to be enough, each publication approaches the subject differently. He notes that in England, the only other publication is "Flying Saucer News," which is restricted to members of the Flying Saucer Club and focuses heavily on sightings. In the U.S.A., several reviews exist, but "Uranus" aims to cater to American readers who seek a different perspective. The magazine positions itself as complementary rather than competitive, asserting that there is ample room for all in the "Saucer world."

The editorial outlines the magazine's policy: to publish articles from well-known British, American, and French "Saucerers" that explore any aspect of the phenomenon (nature, origin, purpose, history) provided the writers approach the subject seriously. Diverse views are welcomed for free and courteous discussion. News will be covered only if it is of outstanding importance, special interest, or useful for illustrating an article.

Notices

The "Notices" section on page 2 announces a lecture by MR. GEORGE ADAMSKI at the Albert Hall on September 22nd, 1954, on the topic "Visitors from other Planets." Tickets are described as being of a single price, available on a first-come, first-served basis. Full details are promised upon request with a stamped addressed envelope.

It also reiterates that "URANUS" is published every second month, with an annual subscription of 10/- at home, 10/6 abroad, and $1.50 in North America. Editorial communications should be sent to E. Biddle at 1513 High Road, London, N.20, England, while other communications (subscriptions, sales, advertising) should be directed to Markham House Press Ltd., 31 Kings Road, London S.W.3.

Strange Interlude by H.S.W. Chibbett

This article critically examines Desmond Leslie's book "FLYING SAUCERS HAVE LANDED," particularly the account of George Adamski's alleged telepathic communication with a Venusian. Chibbett questions the "coincidence" of Adamski being a telepath and suggests the encounter might have been prearranged. He then recounts his own hypnotic experiments conducted since 1948 with the Californian group Borderland Sciences Research Associates. The objective was to send a hypnotized subject's mind to a seance room in San Diego to occupy a medium's body.

Chibbett provides verbatim notes from a specific experiment on February 5th, 1948, involving a subject referred to as Mrs. X. During the experiment, Mrs. X reported experiencing a whirlwind, swimming in water (though there was no water), and being pulled upwards. She described being inside a "huge round thing" with a man at the controls and "egg shape...flabby-looking creatures" with big eyes and webbed hands. She mentioned contact with "Operator 50" and "Operator 236," and a pressure reading. She described the interior as a round room with instruments and dials, and the creatures as smaller than the man, lacking necks, and resembling "Humpty Dumpty."

Mrs. X also reported that the saucer was outside Earth's atmosphere and that she tried to avoid a "suction." The article notes that Mrs. X was awakened with instructions to retain her memory, and her subsequent account is presented. She described the floor as curved but stable, and observed a gallery. She had no impression of whether the beings were friendly or not. She also mentioned seeing instruments and dials on the walls. Chibbett speculates whether Mrs. X's mind "tuned in" to an actual flying saucer or if it was a dream creation, concluding that hypnosis might be a valuable tool for investigating potentially hostile flying saucer phenomena.

Friends, Foes or Specimen Hunters? by E. Biddle

E. Biddle's article reflects on the early days of flying saucer interest, when many believed the visitors were benevolently disposed, citing Gerald Heard's view of them as "considerate," "wise," "clever," "gentle," and "ingenious." Biddle contrasts this with the "tragic case of Capt. Mantell," which was attributed to an accident rather than a deliberate act by the strangers.

He notes the common belief that saucers began appearing around 1945, with only a few earlier cases from the 19th century. Initially, different saucer types (discs, cigar-shaped craft) were thought to have the same origin, with Mars being a popular candidate. Biddle suggests that the beings inside the saucers likely differ fundamentally from humans, possibly being insect-like or silicon-based, as proposed by Sir Harold Spencer Jones. The intense interest in Earth around that time is attributed to the atomic explosions, which may have aroused the visitors' alarm.

Biddle observes that most early enthusiasts believed the saucer beings were peaceful and helpful. Rumors of "little men" found in crashed saucers were generally dismissed, and contact with the strangers seemed unlikely.

Other Content

The issue also includes a section titled "What the Saucer World is Saying" (pages 14) and a "Books" section (page 15), suggesting reviews or discussions of relevant literature. There is also a mention of a letter to the editor.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine clearly aims to foster serious discussion and investigation into the flying saucer phenomenon. It positions itself as a platform for diverse, well-reasoned viewpoints, distinguishing itself from purely sighting-focused publications. The editorial stance emphasizes a critical yet open-minded approach, utilizing tools like hypnosis for research and questioning the intentions of extraterrestrial visitors. The issue touches upon the historical context of ufology, early theories about alien origins and physiology, and the potential impact of human activities (like atomic testing) on extraterrestrial interest. The magazine also highlights prominent figures in the field, such as George Adamski and Desmond Leslie, and engages with their work critically.

Themes: UFOs, Flying Saucers, Extraterrestrial Contact, Hypnosis, Ufology, Skepticism, Early Ufology History.

Tags: Uranus, Flying Saucers, Space Travel, UFO, E. Biddle, George Adamski, H.S.W. Chibbett, Hypnosis, Telepathy, Extraterrestrial, London, 1954, Magazine, Ufology, New Publication, Critical Analysis, Early UFO Reports.

This issue of "Flying Saucer World" from Spring 1954, identified by its cover headline "WHAT THE SAUCER WORLD IS SAYING," provides a comprehensive overview of contemporary discussions and research surrounding UFOs. The publication delves into historical sightings, potential alien motives, the nature of different UFO craft, and reviews of recent books and articles on the subject.

Saucerian Motives and History

The article begins by suggesting that UFO sightings have a long history, potentially spanning thousands of years, thanks to research by Desmond Leslie. It posits that if the intention of these space beings were hostile, they could have subjugated Earth long ago. The similarity between old and new reports indicates a long-standing presence without apparent harm, which is presented as an antidote to panic. The author acknowledges the difficulty in fully understanding the 'Saucerians' motives, admitting that much of the current knowledge is speculative.

Types of Spacecraft and Origins

A key distinction is made between different types of sky objects. While some are considered likely teleguided (e.g., green fireballs, red spray, lights, small discs), the issue focuses on two fundamentally different types of spacecraft: 'Discs' and 'Cigars.' Discs are characterized by terrific speed, acceleration, and unknown propulsion, while 'Cigars' are described as approximately 200 feet long, cigar-shaped, lit from within, and possessing a flaming exhaust, indicating a reaction drive. Their speed is less, and they do not exhibit abrupt directional changes. These differences strongly suggest they are manned by different beings from different worlds.

Contact with 'Saucer-Folk'

The publication notes that in recent years, there have been accounts of actual contact with 'Saucer-folk.' These contacts, primarily with beings from Discs, are described as having a more genuine ring than those involving 'little men.' George Adamski's account of meeting 'Venusians' is highlighted as an ideal example, where the beings appeared human-like and displayed a friendly attitude. However, the possibility of disturbing scenarios cannot be entirely dismissed.

Potential Hostility and Disturbing Possibilities

While contacts have been with Discs, no recorded contact has been made with 'Cigars,' suggesting a different origin and unknown nature of their occupants. The evidence for hostility from these craft is linked to mysterious fires, unexplained air accidents where aircraft collided with unknown objects, the death of Capt. Mantell, and the disappearance of an experimental rocket. The article references Mr. Wilkins' work, "F.S. on the Moon," which connects these incidents to 'Cigar' craft. There's a suggestion that if humanity reaches space, there could be 'real fun and games.'

Trance Communications and Charles Fort's Theories

Trance communications through medium Mark Probert, associated with the Boarderland Sciences Research Associates, also suggest that 'Cigar' spaceships have a different origin and are hostile to both Discs and humans. The issue also explores another possibility, developed by H. Chibbett, concerning the nature of Saucers. It references the work of Charles Fort, noting the high number of unexplained disappearances and strange phenomena falling from the sky. This leads to speculation that humans might be 'fished for' and captured as specimens, with 'showers of objects' being jettisoned items. Cases of humans appearing inexplicably, with memory loss and speaking unknown languages, are cited as potential evidence of this.

Reviews of UFO Literature

The "WHAT THE SAUCER WORLD IS SAYING" section reviews several publications:

• FLYING SAUCER NEWS (Spring 1954): Features a full report on the Coniston Saucer, which is said to vindicate Adamski's account and will be further detailed in a forthcoming book by L.G. Cramp.
• OURANOS (April 1954): Includes an article by Marc Thirouin on old observations, including one from 1900 BC, and a theory by Lieut. Plantier on Saucer propulsion using cosmic energy.
• SAUCERIAN (West Va., U.S.A.): Discusses an article by editor Gray Barker on the mysterious closing of the International Flying Saucer Bureau and its connection to A.K. Bender, potentially linking to the 'three men in dark suits' mentioned in relation to the Maury Island case.
• SAUCERS (June 1954): No specific article details are provided for this publication.
• Article by William B. Nash: A pilot who saw 8 Saucers while flying an airliner. He suggests intelligent life on other worlds might have similar physical forms to humans and that Saucerians may have once lived on Earth and are now returning.
• ROUND ROBIN (May-June 1954): This issue of the BSRA journal discusses the theory that Saucers originate not on another planet but on 'Etheria,' a different plane of existence with a distinct vibrational rate.
• FLYING SAUCERS ON THE MOON by H.T. Wilkins: This book is highly recommended as one of the best and sanest on the subject. It explores phenomena on the Moon and planets, and includes theories about cigar-shaped saucers being hostile. The book concludes with a bibliography and a summary of events from February 1953 to January 1954.
• SPACE, GRAVITY AND THE FLYING SAUCER by Leonard G. Cramp: This book, with a foreword by Desmond Leslie, offers a theory on the motive power of flying saucers based on a thorough study, suggesting a definite pattern in sightings that reveals their means of flight. It also examines Adamski's photographs.
• FLYING SAUCERS FROM OUTER SPACE by Donald E. Keyhoe: This book is praised for its easy readability and insights into American Air Force material and the changing stances of authorities regarding UFOs. It highlights the Utah film of Saucers as proof of intelligent control and speculates on their interest in atomic bases and potential motives, such as seeking a new abode or assessing humanity's readiness for contact.
• LES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES VIENNENT D'UN AUTRE MONDE by Jimmy Guieu: This French book is noted for its factual material, including an unpublished account of a Saucer landing in France in 1950, details on the Siberian 'meteor' incident, and discussions on alleged meetings with Saucerians and their possible hostility. It also mentions ancient records and myths.

Books on Flying Saucers and Space Travel

Markham House Press offers to obtain current works on flying saucers and space travel for readers in North America and the Commonwealth. They also have a limited quantity of U.S.A. published works available for Western European readers.

Reader Engagement

The issue concludes with an invitation for readers in the London Area interested in joining a group for discussions and talks. It also specifically requests contact from anyone who has actually seen a Flying Saucer.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the historical depth of UFO phenomena, the classification and potential origins of different UFO craft (Discs vs. Cigars), the nature of alleged alien contact, and the critical review of burgeoning UFO literature. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging detailed study of evidence while acknowledging the speculative nature of much of the subject matter. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between different types of sightings and craft, and a cautious approach to interpreting the motives and capabilities of extraterrestrial visitors. The publication promotes the idea that the UFO phenomenon is complex and warrants serious investigation, as evidenced by the extensive book reviews and discussions of various theories.