Uranus - 1954 - Vol 01 No 3 - Whole No 03

Magazine Overview

Title: URANUS FLYING SAUCERS
Issue: Vol. 1 No. 3
Date: December, 1954
Publisher: MARKHAM HOUSE PRESS LTD.
Country: United Kingdom
Editor: E. BIDDLE

This issue of Uranus Flying Saucers, published bi-monthly from London, delves into the ongoing discourse surrounding unidentified aerial phenomena, commonly known as flying saucers. The cover prominently features the title "URANUS FLYING SAUCERS" alongside "SPACE TRAVEL" and an illustration of a flying saucer.

Contents and Articles

The table of contents lists several articles and sections:

• Notices: (Page 42)
• This and That: By the Editor (Page 43)
• Shapes of Things to Come: By H.S.W. Chibbett (Page 45)
• Letters to the Editor: Featuring contributions from Mr. H.T. Wilkins and Mr. D.O. French (Page 51)
• Religious Views on Flying Saucers: By E. Biddle (Page 53)
• Concerning Certain Saucer Photographs: (Page 54)
• What the Saucer World is Saying: (Page 55)
• Books: (Page 58)

"This and That" - The Editor's Column

In the "This and That" section, Editor E. Biddle discusses the burgeoning success of The Flying Saucer Research Society, which originated from a small London circle. A semi-public meeting held on October 9th at Caxton Hall attracted about 30 interested individuals. The society plans a definite program for monthly meetings, while still allowing time for informal discussions. Biddle highlights the lack of formality as a positive aspect and introduces Dr. C. Constantine, who will organize and direct the technical side of the society's activities. He appeals to technicians among the readers to join. Gratitude is extended to Mrs. Judith L. Gee for her enthusiasm and hard work in organizing the group. Readers in or near London are invited to join via Mrs. Gee, with all points of view encouraged.

Biddle also notes that current and back numbers of Uranus are available for sale at meetings. He then appeals to readers for their co-operation in expanding Mr. Harold Chibbett's collection of cuttings about saucers and other odd phenomena. This collection is considered valuable for the Society's investigations, and readers are asked to send any relevant clippings, clearly marked with the name of the paper and date. Mr. Chibbett is also interested in anything "really out of the ordinary," including sea-serpents and unexplainable noises.

Furthermore, the editor mentions Mr. W.A. Elvidge's letter regarding Mr. H.T. Wilkins' book "Flying Saucers on the Moon" and announces that Mr. Wilkins' reply will be published. A quote from "Saucerian" (September 1954) describes George Adamski's alleged trip to Venus in a flying saucer, his conversations with Venusians via telepathy, and their ability to speak English and Polish. The editor expresses a hope that Adamski brought back evidence to challenge skeptics.

Mr. Harold Chibbett is reportedly expanding his unpublished story "Know your Enemy" into a book-length work, described as a thriller that is thought-provoking and at times disquieting. The editor hopes it will find a publisher.

Finally, Biddle expresses regret that circumstances have compelled the postponement of several items intended for this issue.

"Shapes of Things to Come" by H.S.W. Chibbett

This article tackles the fundamental questions about flying saucers: their existence and origin. Chibbett notes that despite years of discussion in the press, no rational explanation has been forthcoming. He presents two opposing views: one that flying saucers (F.S.) are illusory, a product of mass hallucination, sponsored by authorities like Colonel H. Watson of the U.S. Air Force, who dismisses them as non-existent and attributes reports to crackpots or publicity seekers. The other view is advanced by less distinguished persons who admit the possibility that F.S. phenomena are real.

Chibbett cites various expert opinions. Rear Admiral C.F. Thompson suggests they are discs from U.S. authorities' scientific experiments. Commander Robert McLaughlin of the U.S. Navy believes they are "space ships from another planet." Prof. A.M. Low considers the possibility of interplanetary flight not silly to consider, and Prof. Joad states that while he neither believes nor disbelieves the reported facts, the odds favor some manifestation of life reaching Earth from elsewhere in the universe.

The author emphasizes that expressions of opinion, regardless of authority, are not facts. He points out that observations of F.S. are numerous worldwide, and while many can be discounted, the remainder are difficult to explain away. This residue includes photographs and theodolite observations by trained technicians. Chibbett argues against dismissing all witnesses as "crackpots" or religious maniacs, as the status of many observers precludes conscious deception or practical joking.

He draws a parallel between circumstantial evidence in legal courts and the evidence for F.S., suggesting that the latter is sufficiently great to render their factual reality almost certain. These objects have been seen globally, with descriptions often tallying, allowing for classification into main groups, primarily "saucer" in shape, though triangular and square vessels are also noted.

Chibbett addresses the objection that F.S. might be experimental craft or misidentified aircraft. He counters this by referencing historical accounts from the 19th century and earlier, citing the work of Charles Fort, who collected references to sky objects as far back as 1800, described as 'phenomena', fire-balls, or unidentified objects, not necessarily flying saucers.

The article then provides several historical instances of unexplained aerial phenomena from 1843 to 1856:

• June 15, 1853: A "flying machine" reported by a Lt. Gazette.
• October 16, 1853: A large luminous body observed moving east to west at 2 a.m. in Ragussa.
• March 29, 1845: A "curious stationary 'meteor'" seen in London, resembling four stars with an orange mist.
• July 25, 1845: An "enormous igneous body" larger than the moon reported in Florence, Italy.
• October 26, 1846: A luminous object in Lowell, Mass., from which fell a fetid jelly weighing 442 pounds.
• March 19, 1847: An ascending object like a "brilliant fire-balloon" reported at Holloway.
• February 5, 1850: A "speck of dull light" in Sandwich, Kent, that increased in size and remained stationary.
• June 6, 1850: A "red glow" and a dark object falling reported from Cote d'Or.
• July 9, 1853: The Societe Meteorologique de France announced "great numbers of red points in the sky."
• August 11, 1854: A bright light, a red body with stationary rays, seen in Tillington.
• April 6, 1856: Dr. Dussort of Colman, France, observed a black spherical object accompanied by a whistling sound.

Chibbett notes the similarity between these historical accounts and current flying saucer reports, particularly their self-luminous nature. He provides further examples from press cuttings:

• January 9, 1943: A "flaming red cone" seen in Ohio, Kentucky, and Tennessee.
• August 13, 1948: A "large incandescent object" that curved and swooped, described as "transparent and full of fire," seen in London.
• October 9, 1948: A fighter pilot chased a "lighted disc-shaped object" over North Dakota.
• January 21, 1950: A "flaming saucer-like object" seen in the sky on the Ile d'Oberon, France.
• March 18, 1950: "Six glowing Flying Saucers, trailing a rose-coloured vapour," seen near Turin, Italy.
• April 29, 1950: A "disc, glowing red," flew parallel with a plane for five minutes.
• May 3, 1950: An "oblong body, shining like silver," dropping at a dizzy pace and shooting out a jet of flame, seen in Mulhouse, France.
• August 13, 1950: Hundreds in Portland, Oregon, claimed to see three flaming objects.
• October 28, 1950: An "oval body travelling at great height with terrific velocity" seen by Mr. Tilsley in Doncaster.
• November 12, 1950: A "lighted body moving from east to west at terrific speed" seen at Heathrow Airport.
• November 19, 1950: A "ball of light" seen in the sky near Benenden, Kent.

Chibbett concludes that the accumulated evidence of over a century, though circumstantial, is substantial and that the phenomena are universal with numerous witnesses.

He also refers to the volume OAHSPE, the bible of the Kosman Church, which contains references to "flying vehicles" and "ships of fire" of gigantic size, some made invisible, that are reminiscent of modern flying saucer phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on the phenomenon of flying saucers, presenting a platform for discussion and investigation. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging the sharing of all viewpoints while critically examining evidence. There is a clear effort to document both contemporary sightings and historical precedents, suggesting that the phenomenon is not new. The publication actively promotes a research society and encourages reader participation, indicating a desire to build a collective understanding of these unexplained aerial events. The historical accounts serve to bolster the argument that these are not merely modern fabrications but potentially recurring phenomena throughout history.

This issue of URANUS, identified as No. 6 and dated Summer/Autumn 1954, is a publication from Markham House Press, Ltd., based in England. It focuses on the topic of flying saucers and related phenomena, featuring a mix of articles, letters, and reviews of other publications in the field.

Letters to the Editor

The issue opens with a letter from H.T. Wilkins responding to a previous article by Mr. Elvidge. Wilkins defends his observations and sanity, recounting his travels in Scotland in June 1954. He states he did not encounter the Loch Ness monster, nor did he witness the 'exceedingly violent storm in the Western Highlands' or unusual damage to roads, farms, or woodlands as mentioned by Elvidge. Wilkins also addresses the belief in the Loch Ness monster, asserting that his belief is not a product of distilleries but based on sightings by reliable people. He details his travels through various regions of Scotland, noting the absence of devastation until he reached the area inland from Aberdeen to the Glens, which he describes as 'appalling'. He questions why this devastation would be kept quiet and suggests it is related to the Scottish Forestry Board and Imports Board placing an embargo on foreign timber.

Another letter from D.O. French critiques scientific knowledge, suggesting scientists learn through trial and error and know nothing of the forces they employ or what occurs on other planets. French posits that the spectroscope shows only intervening space, not planetary surfaces, and that the Earth's atmosphere acts as a magnifier. He also expresses skepticism about scientific beliefs regarding the moon and the sun.

Religious Views on Flying Saucers

This section presents information on how flying saucers are viewed from religious perspectives, offered without editorial comment. It highlights THE KINGDOM VOICE, a 4-page monthly publication, whose September and October 1954 issues are devoted to flying saucers, linking them to the Second Advent. The writers of THE KINGDOM VOICE do not consider saucers supernatural but as space-ships from other worlds with a mission under Christ's leadership. Contact information for Reginald A. Bradbury is provided for those interested.

The article then turns to the Catholic Church's position, stating it has no objection to the belief in extraterrestrial inhabitants or UFOs as space ships from other planets. It references an article in "Civilta Catholica" by Father D. Grasso in 1953, which asserts that Catholics are free to believe in inhabitants on other planets and that the question of knowing whether human beings can live on other planets has been raised by the phenomenon of flying saucers. Experts believe these beings might differ in constitution but are still human, composed of body and soul.

An anonymous Catholic priest's French brochure is also mentioned, which views flying saucers as supernatural manifestations designed to instill fear and prevent a third world war, rather than originating from intelligent planetary races.

Concerning Certain Saucer Photographs by E. Biddle

E. Biddle discusses the possibility of photographing flying saucers if they exist and are material. He notes that while many photos show mere blobs, some alleged close-range photos show details like 'portholes' and 'landing gear'. The most famous of these are Adamski's photos, which are contrasted with those taken in February 1954 at Coniston by 13-year-old Stephen Darbishire. Biddle confirms that Darbishire photographed a saucer, and the similarity between his photos and Adamski's is marked. However, he cautions against assuming Adamski's claims are correct solely based on this similarity, as it does not prove the objective fact of his story about meeting a Venusian. Biddle also notes that other saucer photos, though lacking detail, show a similar shape, suggesting a common origin.

What the Saucer World is Saying

This section reviews several publications related to flying saucers:

• FLYING SAUCER NEWS - No. 6. Summer/Autumn 1954: This issue is noted for its interesting news items and illustrations, particularly Richard Hughes' editorial "Chaos and Confusion," which expresses growing wariness of developments, especially those involving alleged contacts from the Spirit World.
• SAUCERS - Sept. 1954: Published by Flying Saucers International in Los Angeles, this issue is described as having an attractive cover and well-produced pages, containing news, photos, humour, and 'monsters'.
• PENDULUM - A monthly review of Radiesthesia: This publication includes an article on "Flying Saucers and Radiesthesia," which suggests that alien visitors would have different vibration rates and metabolism. It questions whether radiesthesists could detect and pinpoint the presence of aliens on a map.
• THE SAUCERIAN - Sept. 1954: Edited by Gray Barker, this issue is praised for its attractive printed cover and forty photolithoed pages, offering a wide range of content including news, photos, and humour.
• ROUND ROBIN - Journal of the Borderland Sciences Research Associates: This issue features the story of a Canadian nickel mine episode involving a 13-foot monster with one eye and six limbs. The story is considered less credible in light of further details from "Saucerian." The article emphasizes judging cases on their individual merits and avoiding accusations of deception.
• FATE MAGAZINE - Nos. 1 & 2, Nov. & Dec., 1954: While not primarily an F.S. publication, it contains a double saucer article of interest. The first part by John Carnell covers the B.O.A.C. sighting near Goose Bay, and the second by Curtis Fuller discusses the U.S.A.F.'s attitude. The magazine is recommended for its serious articles on psychic and occult themes.

Books

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 readers in Western Europe.

An item titled "BIOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF 'FLYING SAUCER' PHOTOGRAPHS 1954" is mentioned, which applies principles of radiesthesia to analyze saucer photographs, including the Coniston pictures. The technique is noted as requiring further elaboration.

Another item, "WEIRD SCIENCE FANTASY - Special Issue - CHALLENGE TO U.S. AIR FORCE," is described as a strip-cartoon-like booklet detailing outstanding saucer sightings from 1947 onwards, posing 17 questions to the U.S. Air Force about the truth of flying saucers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation and interpretation of flying saucer phenomena. There is a clear tension between scientific skepticism and belief in extraordinary claims, as seen in the letters to the editor. The magazine explores how religious perspectives engage with the UFO topic, suggesting that some interpretations see them as spiritual or divinely ordained. The authenticity of photographic evidence is a significant concern, with a critical examination of famous cases like Adamski's and newer ones like Darbishire's. The editorial stance, particularly evident in Richard Hughes' piece and the general tone of the reviews, appears to be one of cautious inquiry, acknowledging the interest in UFOs while expressing wariness towards unsubstantiated claims, especially those involving psychic or spiritualistic elements. The publication seems to encourage critical thinking and a balanced approach to evaluating evidence, as highlighted in the discussion on judging cases on their individual merits.