Uranus - 1955 - Vol 01 No 6 - Whole No 06

Magazine Overview

Title: URANUS FLYING SAUCERS
Issue: Vol. 1 No. 6
Date: June, 1955
Publisher: MARKHAM HOUSE PRESS LTD.
Country: United Kingdom
Editor: E. BIDDLE

This issue of Uranus Flying Saucers, published monthly by Markham House Press Ltd. in London, focuses heavily on the controversial figure of George Adamski and the broader implications of space travel and potential extraterrestrial contact.

Contents

The issue features a table of contents that includes:

• This and That..
• Humanity at the Interplanetary Age
• The Adamski Controversy
• Letters to the Editor
• Books
• What Others are Saying..
• Current Flying Saucer Literature Available

Articles and Discussions

This and That.. (By the Editor)

Editor E. Biddle addresses readers' attention to Mr. Rudman's article on the 'Adamski Controversy' and Mr. Nash's letter. Biddle discusses the authenticity of Adamski's photographs, suggesting that while some might be genuine, they do not automatically validate the entire story. He notes that the 'snag' is that the photos are one thing, and the rest of the story is another. He touches upon biometric analysis suggesting a 'scout ship' was manned, but cautions against assuming the occupant was Adamski's 'Venusian.' Biddle also comments on Mr. Cramp's claim about the similarity between the Adamski Scout Ship and the Coniston Saucer, stating this bears only on the genuineness of the photos and does not substantiate Adamski's claims of meeting a Venusian. He expresses interest in applying Mr. Cramp's technique to other similar photos.

Books and Literature

The editor reviews M. Michel's book 'Lueurs sur les S.v.', noting that an English translation is forthcoming from Robert Hale Ltd. in the autumn, priced at approximately 15/- ($2.40), and recommends it for serious students of UFOs. He also mentions Mr. H.T. Wilkins' upcoming second book on saucers, which is expected to be of significant interest based on their correspondence. Additionally, the issue references Mr. M.K. Jessup's new book, 'The Case for the UFO's,' published by the Citadel Press of New York, which costs $3.50 and explores the connection between UFOs and other 'odd' happenings. The editor plans to review it in a future issue.

Humanity at the Interplanetary Age (By Prof. Alfred Nahon)

This translated article, originally from 'Le Courrier Interplanetaire,' discusses the growing momentum towards space exploration. It references a 1948 U.S. Defense Department communique on plans for an artificial satellite and interplanetary exploration projects at Wright Field. It mentions the 1950 International Astronautic Congress and Dr. Kaplan's 1953 declaration about a nuclear rocket to the Moon by 1962. The article cites Robert Jungk's book 'Le futur a déjà commencé' (The Future Has Already Begun), detailing experiments involving young Americans subjected to various physical stresses for space travel preparation. It also mentions the possibility of life on other planets, citing recent observations from the Lowell Observatory about a 'mysterious dark stain' on Mars, which could indicate vegetation or artificial change. The article concludes that humanity is entering an 'Interplanetary Age' and should not dismiss the idea of extraterrestrial visitors.

The Adamski Controversy (By David Rudman)

David Rudman attempts an objective examination of George Adamski's claims. He recounts Adamski's alleged encounter on November 20th, 1952, in the Californian Desert with a Venusian, noting the plaster casts of footprints and six witness affidavits. Rudman acknowledges that casts can be faked but suggests discounting sworn testimony is difficult. He then discusses the sequel on December 13th, where Adamski claims the Scout Ship returned and dropped a film holder with writing and a diagram, and that he photographed the ship. Rudman notes that while these could be faked, the evidence is presented. He then moves to the February 15th, 1954, sighting by Stephen Darbishire on the Coniston Old Man, where a craft identical to Adamski's was photographed. Mr. Leonard Cramp's comparison of these photos concluded they were of identical craft, leading him to state there is 'adequate proof that Adamski is telling the truth.' Rudman finds it highly coincidental if both observers recorded erroneous impressions. He also refers to a booklet, 'Biometric Analysis of the Flying Saucer Photographs,' by the Society of Metaphysicians Ltd., which reportedly shows the Adamski and Darbishire photographs are of identical craft and that 'life' readings prove the craft was occupied. Rudman concludes that the Californian photographs are genuine, despite Sgt. Jerrold E. Baker retracting his testimony. He mentions Adamski's forthcoming book, 'Inside the Space Ships,' which reportedly details claims of travel to other planets, and advises readers to consider Charles Fort's 'New Lands' for a broader perspective on unexplained events.

Letters to the Editor

A letter from a reader discusses comments in 'flying saucer' periodicals and URANUS's April issue concerning the Adamski story. The writer quotes from 'Flying Saucers have Landed' (p. 210), mentioning a small craft taking off, circling planes, and a B-36 appearing overhead, suggesting the interview was witnessed by the U.S. Air Force. The writer implies this could be definitive evidence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes the idea of flying saucers and space travel as serious subjects worthy of investigation. The editorial stance, particularly from E. Biddle, is one of cautious inquiry, acknowledging the controversial nature of claims like Adamski's while encouraging readers to examine evidence objectively. There is a strong emphasis on the potential for humanity to enter an 'Interplanetary Age,' driven by scientific advancements and the possibility of extraterrestrial contact. The magazine also serves as a platform for discussing new literature and sharing reader perspectives on these topics.

URANUS, issue numbers 111-120, dated March 1955, is a publication from Markham House Press Ltd. in the United Kingdom, focusing on flying saucer phenomena. The issue is primarily in English and covers a range of topics related to UFO sightings, theories, and literature.

Content Summary

The issue opens with a discussion on Major Keyhoe's influence and the potential clearing up of 'flying saucer' mysteries, particularly referencing the Adamski case. A letter from A.J. Nash of Bracknell, Berks., dated April 11th, 1955, suggests that if planes were present during the Adamski sighting, he should be believed. However, Nash notes the contradictory statements from the U.S.A.F. and the difficulty in imagining them admitting anything. He also points out the lack of denial from U.S. authorities regarding the existence of planes in the area, which he finds significant.

A letter addressed to Mr. Biddle from an unnamed correspondent argues against the 'visitors-from-space' theory being adopted arbitrarily. The writer claims to have definite proof that some saucers come from outer space, citing an investigation into the Ranton sightings for the British Flying Saucer Bureau. A 'vimana' was reported hovering over an isolated farm house near Stafford, with two men visible inside. The writer provides three reasons for believing the story of Mrs. Roestenberg and her husband: the unusual terror of their baby girl Karyn afterwards, Mr. Roestenberg being Dutch and providing a cutting from a Dutch paper that corroborated the sighting, and the fact that the Roestenbergs gained nothing from the publicity, making their story credible.

The correspondent also advocates for the use of the Sanskrit word 'vidya' instead of 'object' when discussing UFOs, arguing it is more precise and neutral, unlike terms that vary by language.

Book Reviews

The "BOOKS" section features reviews of several publications:

• LA PROPULSION DES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES par action directe sur l'atome by Lt.-Pilote Jean Plantier, published by Editions Mame, Paris. Reviewed by E.B., this book is described as presenting a revolutionary theory of flying saucer propulsion, offering solutions to mysteries such as silence at speed, heat resistance, piloted flight, and changes in appearance. The reviewer strongly recommends it as an outstanding landmark in serious saucer investigation.

• SPACE, GRAVITY & THE FLYING SAUCER by Leonard G. Cramp, published by T. Werner Laurie Ltd. Reviewed by C.A. Heathcote, this book is called unusual and thought-provoking, approaching the UFO enigma from various angles. It contributes to the problem of motive power and inspires research into interplanetary travel. Cramp, a member of the British Interplanetary Society, advocates for a radical change in space travel approach, emphasizing 'gravity control'. The review notes the book's clear style, excellent illustrations, and its examination of expert attitudes. It suggests the book could well have been subtitled 'An Intelligence Course For Sceptics'. The reviewer also mentions the author's chapter on Antony Avenel's 'Unity of Creation' theory and psychic levitation, and his analysis of Adamski and Coniston photographs.

• FLYING SAUCERS AND COMMONSENSE by Waveney Girvan, published by Frederick Muller Ltd. Also reviewed by C.A. Heathcote, this book is welcomed for its sane and balanced comment on flying saucers, offering good reasoning and commonsense. It is recommended for both newcomers and experienced investigators, providing a clarification of perspective. The reviewer notes Girvan's accomplished writing style, his curiosity sparked by 1946 reports, and his analysis of press and public reactions. The book examines important sightings and the attitudes of experts and sceptics, with the reviewer suggesting it could be an 'Intelligence Course For Sceptics'. The review touches upon the idea that some scientists' negative attitudes might stem from 'higher policy' rather than personal views.

• TRIPLANETARY by E.E. Smith Ph.D. This is a science fiction book, and the review notes a disagreement between flying saucer devotees and science fiction fans. The reviewer hopes this hiatus will be bridged, suggesting that the technical developments foreshadowed in science fiction are similar to those of 'F.S. visitors or residents'.

Other Publications and News

The section "WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING" compiles brief comments from other publications:

• NEXUS, March 1955: Features an article by Frank Scully denying his story was a hoax. Scully also attacks H.T. Wilkins. An article by John Pitt discusses Desmond Leslie.
• CRIFO NEWSLETTER for March: Deals with the question of whether F.S. are U.S. secret weapons, deciding against it.
• PROCEEDINGS of the COLLEGE of UNIVERSAL WISDOM (California) Feb. 1955: Primarily written by G.W. van Tassel.
• BIBLE STANDARD (Philadelphia, U.S.A.): States Spiritism is demonic and F.S. supernatural.
• FLYING SAUCERS (New Zealand) Sept. and Dec. 1954: Described as an excellent magazine with real value, edited by H.H. Fulton.
• AUTHENTIC SCIENCE FICTION: Published a favourable review of Keyhoe's "Flying Saucers from Outer Space", noting its solid data and impressive documentation.
• NEXUS for April: Contains a review of a new book by astronomer M.K. Jessup, "The Case for the UFO".
• BSRA "Clips, Quotes and Comments": Features more on the topic of UFOs, linking them to Charles Fort's books.
• OPERATION FANTAST, March 1955: Contains a reply by Harold T. Wilkins to a charge of perpetrating hoaxes, and a review of Keyhoe's "F.S. from Outer Space" calling the material "devastating" and "horribly solid data".

Current Flying Saucer Literature Available

A list of available books is provided with prices, published by Markham House Press Ltd. and other publishers. Titles include works by C. Allingham, L.G. Cramp, W. Girvan, D.E. Keyhoe, D. & G. Adamski, Cyril Richardson, H.T. Wilkins, Dr. H.P. Wilkins, Jimmy Guieu, and Jean Plantier. Books are available from Britain and France, with one U.S.A. publication listed.

Subscription Information

URANUS is published every second month with a subscription of 10/- at home, 10/6 abroad, and $1.50 in North America. Payments should be made to Markham House Press Ltd.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently promotes a serious and investigative approach to the flying saucer phenomenon, often critical of official explanations and skeptical attitudes. There is a strong emphasis on reviewing literature and presenting evidence that supports the extraterrestrial hypothesis. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging readers to consider unconventional theories and to critically evaluate information from official sources and media coverage. The recurring theme is the need for more rigorous investigation and a willingness to accept potentially groundbreaking conclusions, even if they challenge established scientific paradigms. The publication also highlights the importance of international perspectives and the growing body of literature on the subject.