Uranus - 1955 - Vol 01 No 5 - Whole No 05

Magazine Overview

Title: URANUS
Issue: Vol. 1 No. 5
Date: April, 1955
Publisher: MARKHAM HOUSE PRESS LTD.
Country: United Kingdom
Editor: E. BIDDLE.

This issue of URANUS marks the completion of its first year of existence. The magazine aims to provide a varied selection of material on flying saucers and related topics, making it accessible to British and American readers. The editor notes that this policy has been met with approval.

Contents and Articles

Notices (Page 82)

This section details upcoming lectures and events. Lectures under the auspices of the Research Centre Group are held at Caxton Hall, London. On Friday, April 29th, Mr. L.C. Suggar will speak on "THE MOON AND ITS SURFACE." On Thursday, November 24th, Mr. Chibbett will lecture on "Flying Saucers, with particular reference to their early history." Admission is free for members of the Group, with a 2/- entrance fee for non-members. Enquiries can be made to Mrs. Forrester.

Additionally, on Wednesday, April 13th, 1955, at 7:30 p.m., Mr. E. Biddle will give a talk on "FLYING SAUCERS" at the Discussion Group of the FINCHLEY SPIRITUALIST CHURCH.

This and That (Page 83)

The editor reflects on the magazine's first year, expressing satisfaction with the material offered. He notes that the policy of providing accessible information has been well-received. The editor then discusses the potential second book by George Adamski, which is reportedly unlikely to be published in the UK but may appear in the USA, possibly due to a lack of evidence supporting Adamski's claims. An extract from the BSRA "Clips, Quotes and Comments" is included, referencing Adamski's book "PIONEERS OF SPACE. A JOURNEY TO THE MOON, MARS & VENUS." The editor acknowledges that Adamski claims to have visited other worlds but offers no evidence, and that the rest of us cannot disprove his story.

Editorial Reflections (Pages 84-85)

The editor contemplates the varied reactions to the flying saucer phenomenon, ranging from outright dismissal as a hoax to unquestioning belief. He suggests that some may simply set the information aside for future consideration. The editor expresses interest in whether Adamski's proposed visit to the UK will materialize, deeming it unlikely. He posits that the flying saucer problem is becoming more complicated, with man-made objects likely mixed in with genuine phenomena. The editor suggests that information about secret devices is unlikely to be released and that individuals who stumble upon such secrets may be silenced. However, he argues that this cannot explain all flying saucer sightings, citing older, detailed cases from 50-70 years ago that bear resemblance to modern sightings. The editor also mentions that his friend, Mr. Chibbett, suggests a connection between flying saucers and other unrelated "odd" facts, based on extensive record-keeping.

Letters to the Editor (Pages 85-87)

Letter from M. Fouéré (as interpreted by the Editor and John A. Wiseman):
John A. Wiseman writes regarding M. Fouéré's theory that flying saucers are "space-viable life-forms" that may be "mining" our atmosphere for valuable gases. Wiseman notes that Fouéré's theory is well-explored but questions its adequacy in explaining cases involving mechanical components. Wiseman suggests that such creatures might use chameleon-like disguises. He also disputes Fouéré's emphasis on the reluctance of objects to land, stating that other theories can account for this. Wiseman proposes the term "unidentified sky object" (u.s.o.) as a replacement for "flying saucer" and "unidentified flying object," arguing that the latter implies the objects are objective and not hallucinations.

Letter from Cynthia Johnston (Page 87):
Cynthia Johnston writes in response to an article by M. Fouéré, who theorized that flying saucers are "Space Animals." Johnston acknowledges the lucidity of this theory but believes it doesn't account for all sightings, particularly those involving humanoid creatures. She questions how human-like beings could inhabit planets like Jupiter or Saturn, which have ammonia and methane atmospheres, and how they could survive Earth's bacilli without immunisation. Johnston concludes that the saucer question presents unsolvable puzzles and wonders if humanoid crews can change their appearance to avoid frightening humans.

The Prophets (Pages 88-90)

By E. Biddle.

This article explores the human craving to peer into the future. The editor asserts that glimpses of the future are sometimes seen, though accurate prevision of world events is rare. He notes that during times of crisis, such as before World War I, people are less eager to know the future. The article discusses how prophecies related to the 1914-18 war and the inter-war period often proved incorrect. The prophetic tendency, the editor suggests, reached its height after 1945 due to the atomic threat.

The article distinguishes between charlatan prophets and sincere but deluded ones. It critiques those who claim to find the future in the measurements of the Great Pyramid, citing Ernest Hunt's incorrect prediction in 1936 and the subsequent failure to accurately predict the 1939 war using pyramid measurements. The editor dismisses outpourings from psychic sources as spurious, while acknowledging the value of Psychic Research.

Nostradamus's prophecies are discussed, with the editor noting that they are often understood only after the event. He mentions a French correspondent who developed a system for interpreting Nostradamus, but whose predictions for recent years have not materialized. The article links the current interest in flying saucers to prophecy, suggesting that in a time of uncertainty and fear of atomic war, people are looking to these phenomena for salvation. The editor criticizes the belief in benevolent beings from Venus and Interplanetary Councils, and mentions a B.S.R.A. catalog of misfortunes scheduled for 1952-1958.

Other Sections

• Fuel for Moon Trip (Page 97): Content not detailed in the provided pages.
• Books (Page 97): Content not detailed in the provided pages.
• Current Flying Saucer Literature Available (Page 100): Content not detailed in the provided pages.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are flying saucers, the nature of their occupants, and the phenomenon of prophecy. The editor, E. Biddle, maintains a critical yet open-minded stance. He acknowledges the complexity of the flying saucer mystery, suggesting a mix of genuine phenomena and possibly secret man-made devices. While he dismisses some theories as unfounded or overly speculative, he encourages careful research and consideration of older cases. The editorial stance appears to be one of rational inquiry, seeking to separate fact from speculation while recognizing the public's fascination with the unknown, particularly in the context of post-war anxieties and the atomic age.

This document is a collection of pages from the March 1955 issue of 'Uranus', a publication focused on flying saucer phenomena. The content consists of reviews and discussions of various books and articles related to UFOs, with a critical and analytical tone.

Article 1: Commentary on Predictions and Intervention

The first section, on page 91, begins by referencing a prediction that 1953 would be a year of destruction, followed by a Mongolian invasion and the ushering in of a new age by 'Uranians' (F.S. people) associated with the Palmivarian Fellowship. This organization advised people to move to Guatemala. The author notes that by March 1955, there was no sign of these 'Uranians'.

The author questions the expectation of outside intervention, drawing a parallel to the destruction of Atlantis, which was not prevented by intervention. The text ponders why, if extraterrestrials are concerned about Earth's actions, they don't intervene now rather than wait until it's too late, especially if they come from another solar system and Earth's destruction wouldn't affect their home.

Article 2: Saucers and Biblical Prophecy

Another school of thought connects flying saucers with Biblical prophecy. The author has read literature on this but feels it requires significant imagination to interpret the old texts in this way. The lack of support from major churches like the Catholic or Anglican is noted as a point against these interpretations, though not definitive proof of their wrongness. The author concludes that it is unwise to worry about such matters, as prophets have always been present and likely always will be.

Article 3: Avoiding Extremes and Sticking to Facts

Page 92 discusses how proponents of predictions do not lose heart when their forecasts fail, instead adjusting their calculations. The author cautions against painting the 'Saucer problem' too black or too bright, emphasizing the need to stick to facts. A 'No-Man's Land' is described between apparent facts and the nonsensical, which may prove true later. The writer suggests regarding this material for future reference rather than building theories on unproven foundations. While acknowledging the unknown limits of possibility, the author stresses the importance of cautious investigation and warns against 'vociferous self-styled guides'.

Article 4: Falling Material and Sightings

This section, including a box quoting 'SAUCERIAN', reports on material falling from the skies, attributed by some to flying saucers. An incident in Jerome, Ohio, is described where a cigar-shaped craft jettisoned a mass of whitish stuff that fell on trees and telephone lines. When examined, the substance looked and felt like asbestos but vanished within a minute of being touched. It could be drawn into long threads and was difficult to break. Teacher Mrs. George Dittmar reported her hands turned green after touching it, though the color washed off. A similar substance, dubbed 'angels' hair', fell in San Fernando Valley, California, from a silvery ball, and also vanished.

Article 5: Review of NEXUS Magazine (Jan/Feb 1955)

Page 93 reviews the January and February 1955 issues of NEXUS, published by James W. Moseley. The main focus is Moseley's article "SOME NEW FACTS ABOUT 'FLYING SAUCERS HAVE LANDED'", which summarizes his investigation into the George Adamski case. Moseley traveled extensively, interviewed principals (except Mrs. Bailey), and gathered correspondence to obtain details about Adamski's story. The review highlights specific points of contention:

1. Mr. Bloom of the Point Loma Navy Laboratory stated he was grossly misquoted in 'F.S. have Landed'.
2. Mr. Al. Chop considered suing Adamski over the book.
3. Williamson, despite being called 'doctor', admits he has no degree.
4. Mr. Al. Bailey did not see the space man Adamski allegedly talked to, nor the scout ship, but did see the 'mother ship' and flashes of light. He could not vouch for Adamski's contact.
5. A question is raised about how Venusian footprints could remain so well in desert sand where there had been no rain for months.

Further questions are posed about how a space man from Venus could defy scientific principles by existing in Earth's atmosphere and by looking so similar to humans.

The review also mentions pages of evidence presented by Jerrold Baker, primarily dealing with photographs, which leave the impression that 'something very strange was going on'.

Mr. Moseley concludes that neither he nor Mr. Baker claim George Adamski's account is entirely untrue, but that the true story may be known only to Adamski himself. The author of the review, however, expresses serious doubt about Adamski's veracity and sincerity, believing his book, while entertaining, has done harm to efforts to find the truth about flying saucers.

Article 6: NEXUS February Issue and AUTHENTIC Science Fiction Monthly

Page 95 notes that the February issue of NEXUS contains an article by Mr. Moseley suggesting most F.S. are of earthly origin. The reviewer finds Moseley's explanation plausible but perhaps pushed too far.

'AUTHENTIC SCIENCE FICTION MONTHLY' (Jan. and Feb. 1955) is also reviewed. The January issue features an article by E.C. Tubb, "Suppose YOU met a Man in a Flying Saucer", discussing possible human reactions to alien contact. The reviewer recommends this article.

Article 7: AUTHENTIC February Issue and SAUCERIAN

Page 96 discusses the February issue of 'AUTHENTIC', which includes an article titled "When the Flying Saucers land, will YOU be ready?". This article posits that Saucer folk have taken over Earth with the highest motives, suggesting that their efforts to abolish harmful things like tobacco, beer, cinemas, and cars might unite the human race.

The January issue of 'AUTHENTIC' also contains a surprising review of Allingham's "Flying Saucer from Mars". The reviewer strongly recommends 'AUTHENTIC' magazine.

'SAUCERIAN' (Spring, 1955), edited by Gray Barker, is briefly mentioned. Its 62 pages are described as a mixed bag. It includes a mention of the NEXUS article on Adamski and a 'reply' from Adamski, which the reviewer found disappointing as it yielded little new information, focusing only on Jerrold Baker and a photograph from December 13th, 1952.

Article 8: Fuel for Moon Trip and Book Reviews

Page 97 begins with a brief note from 'Evening Standard' (March 14th, 1955) stating that two ounces of uranium are enough to drive a rocket to the moon, as reported by Moscow Radio in an interplanetary travel talk.

The main part of the page is a review of 'LUEURS SUR LES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES' by Aime Michel (Editions Mame, Paris, 1954). The book is praised for being balanced and factual, serving as an ideal textbook of F.S. lore. It is divided into three parts: American inquiries, Saucers in the Old World, and Explanations and Hypotheses. The author, Aime Michel, is described as a 'lone wolf' who prefers independent study. The book is noted for being free from tales of meetings with Venusians or Martians, telepathic messages, etc.

The review highlights an observation by a baker in Arras, France, on January 7th, 1954, of a brilliant luminous disc that swayed and moved off at high speed. Michel emphasizes that the words describing this motion are important as they embody a detail unlikely to be invented by a hoaxer but observed globally when a saucer starts from a standstill.

Article 9: Keyhoe, Michel, and Contradictions

Page 98 continues the review of Aime Michel's book. The author disagrees with Keyhoe's suggestion that contradictory statements by U.S. Air Force spokesmen are part of a complex plan to prepare the public for the secret of the discs. Michel believes these contradictions correspond to an evolution of ideas or feelings within the Air Material Command. The reviewer, however, feels the contradictions follow too closely for this to be true and suggests Major Keyhoe knows his countrymen best.

A paragraph from the book is quoted, describing the period from June 24th to December 30th, 1947, as a time when 'craziest stories' were circulated, mixing disturbing sightings with inventions of 'feeble minds' and 'Saucer psychosis', leading to confusion and the impossibility of discussing saucers without losing reputation.

The reviewer agrees that saucer phenomena, like psychic phenomena, would not have survived without a basis of fact, but that charlatans and notoriety-seekers hinder genuine research.

The book also provides a detailed account of an impressive sighting of a small F.S. landing at Marignane (Provence) by Customs Officer Gabriel Gachignard in October 1952. This is described as a fascinating story, not fanciful, and told by an apparently honest man who saw something outside his experience.

Article 10: Importance of Reporting and Book Costs

Page 99 continues the discussion of Aime Michel's book. Michel stresses the importance of reporting even imperfect observations. He notes that if the existence of F.S. were verified and they came from another world, Gachignard's vision might be a significant historical record.

The third part of the book covers explanations and hypotheses, including views from Prof. Menzel, Lieut. Plantier's theory, and a translation of an article by Father Francis J. Connel on 'The Saucers and Theology'.

An interesting question is quoted: "And suppose the Saucers were coming, not from Space but from Time? Suppose they were, before our eyes, humanity of future centuries, exploring its past?" This possibility was previously mentioned by Jimmy Guiou.

The reviewer concludes by noting that most saucer books are expensive but recommends Michel's book for those interested in F.S. and who can read French.

Article 11: Current Flying Saucer Literature Available

Page 100 lists 'CURRENT FLYING SAUCER LITERATURE AVAILABLE', categorized by country of publication:

• Published in Britain:
• C. Allingham - F.S. from Mars 1954 (11/- or $1.65)
• L.G. Cramp - Space, Gravity and the F.S. 1954 (5/9 or $1.00)
• W. Girvan - F.S. & Commonsense 1955 (11/- or $1.65)
• D.E. Keyhoe - F.S. from Outer Space 1954 (11/- or -)
• D. Leslie & G. Adamski - F.S. have Landed 1953 (13/- or $2.00)
• Cyril Richardson - Venus Speaks 1954 (5/6 or $1.00)
• H.T. Wilkins - F.S. on the Moon 1954 (F.S. on the Attack in USA) (16/9)
• Jimmy Guieu - F.S. Come from another World (to appear April 55) (about 16/9 or $2.60)

• Published in France:
• J. Guieu - Les S.V. Viennient d'un autre Monde 1954 (18/- or $2.85)
• Aime Michel - Lueurs sur les S.V. (15/- or $2.40)

• Published in U.S.A.:
• C. Fort - Complete Works (£2. 11. 6.)

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical analysis of flying saucer claims, the distinction between fact and speculation, and the review of contemporary literature on the subject. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious skepticism, urging readers to rely on verifiable facts rather than sensationalism or unproven theories. There is a clear emphasis on investigative journalism and a critical approach to claims, particularly those surrounding the George Adamski case. The publication seems to favor a more grounded, less speculative approach to the UFO phenomenon, while still acknowledging the strangeness of some reported events.