Uranus - 1955 - Vol 02 No 2 - Whole No 08

Magazine Overview

Title: URANUS
Issue: Vol. 2 No. 2 (8)
Date: September, 1955
Editor: E. BIDDLE
Publisher: MARKHAM HOUSE PRESS LTD.
Country: United Kingdom
Price: 1/9D OR 35 CENTS

Content Summary

This and That ... by the Editor

The editor, E. Biddle, apologizes for dedicating a portion of this issue to material from the Borderland Sciences Research Associates (B.S.R.), believing it will be welcomed by the majority of readers. He highlights the B.S.R. as a unique organization focused on a wide range of unusual topics, not just Flying Saucers (F.S.). He notes that the subscription cost of $5.00 may limit the number of British associates, and provides details for those interested in joining, including remittance instructions and the address of Mr. Meade Layne in San Diego, California, USA. The editor also points out a common point of confusion regarding date formats between British and American conventions (e.g., 6/2/55).

Letters and Correspondence

The editor mentions a letter from his French friend, M. Aime Michel, whose article is expected to provoke replies. Readers are invited to write to M. Michel directly, in French or English, regarding his views, which the editor largely agrees with, though not entirely. M. Michel is the author of an F.S. book titled "Light on the Flying Saucers." The editor expresses gratification at the increased reader response to letters for publication and encourages overseas friends to contribute their views. He also confirms the prompt and regular publication schedule of URANUS, which appears every second month.

Several articles from URANUS have been reprinted in other Saucer journals, and the magazine welcomes such reproduction provided the source and address are credited. URANUS does not view other UFO publications as rivals and believes in sharing good content. The magazine notes that its feature "WHAT THE SAUCER WORLD IS SAYING" is temporarily held over. The CRIFO NEWSLETTER has changed its title to ORBIT and is now in letterpress format, edited by L.H. Stringfield, and is recommended for its serious content.

The editor reminds readers that opinions in signed articles are the responsibility of the writers and not necessarily the editorial views. A letter from Mr. Bentham is mentioned, which raises questions about statements attributed to the Russian scientist Nesmeyanov, possibly due to mistranslation or misunderstanding, and the editor is seeking clarification from Prof. Nahon.

Caveat Emptor - Let the Buyer Beware by Meade Layne, M.A.

Meade Layne, Director of the Borderland Sciences Research Associates, warns readers to be cautious of self-styled masters, purveyors of revelations, and those claiming to hold the "final truth." He urges buyers to beware of teachings that are not critically examined. Layne describes the proliferation of "pseudo-Messiahs" and warns that global and cosmic facts are being realized, leading to a crescendo of pronouncements. He suggests that the greatest enemy of man is the "Sheep-Within" – the herd instinct. Layne advocates for critical thinking and advises against the non-critical acceptance of marvellous tales, smug explanations, or imaginary visits to other planets. He cautions against systems, ouija-board revelations, astral projections, and fakery, while acknowledging that some grains of truth may be scattered within this material. He emphasizes "critical receptivity" as a guiding star for research and advises keeping an eye on all would-be teachers and revelators. Layne concludes that most answers found in the marketplace are partial, inadequate, and often wrong, urging readers to consult their deepest instincts and the Highest Self. This article was reprinted from "Clips, Quotes & Comments" B.12, dated June 15th 1954.

"ANGEL HAIR" (Fils de la Vierge)

This section discusses the mysterious vanishing substance known as "Angel Hair" or "spun glass," first reported after the passage of flying saucers in France. Extracts from B.S.R.'s "Clips, Quotes & Comments" are presented. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas reported a widespread fall of this tinsel-like stuff in California, which did not accumulate on the ground but adhered to trees and shrubs. Reports from Italy and elsewhere suggest it appears as a trail or fall from aeroforms and may be a by-product of propulsion or a means of clearing harmful elements. The substance is described as pure white, silky, odourless, warm, not sticky, with uniform threads that disintegrate slowly in air and are not soluble in water but soluble in strong caustic acid. It burns rapidly without smell or ash. An important characteristic is the average length of the original strands, which is 30 ft. The material is also associated with Mark Probert's controls, suggesting it is used by "Etherian visitors" for intercepting radar beams. Samples at B.S.R. Headquarters disappear slowly and do not stain hands, indicating variations in quality. Readers are advised to pick it up with a stick wrapped in black cloth.

SPACE ORGANISMS (or "Disc-Beings")

This section references M. Fouere's theory of "Disc-Beings" and includes an extract from the B.S.R. journal ROUND ROBIN (January 1947). A friend from Grand Rapids quotes a Control of medium William Thatcher, who suggested that "space organisms" exist beyond the heavier atmosphere. These organisms are described as tenuous, of low intelligence, resembling aerial jellyfish, and sometimes sighted by humans. The text notes that Charles Fort also wrote about strange creatures.

FLYING SAUCERS AND NEGATIVE MATTER by B. Duranton

B. Duranton proposes that flying saucers could be a demonstration of negative matter. If they originate from a negative planet, they would need no engines or wings to overcome repulsion forces upon approaching Earth and would disperse without leaving wreckage if destroyed. Duranton suggests they might come from Uranus, Neptune, or Pluto. He counters the physicists' argument that life is impossible on these worlds by suggesting that cold is relative, that planetary fields might be different, and that these worlds might possess psychic maturity beyond Earth's, possibly having direct knowledge of the cosmos. He criticizes physicists for confining their theories of life to strictly terrestrial data, deeming this approach untenable given our ignorance about life's nature and origin. Duranton believes that life, in some form, is bound to appear wherever conditions permit, potentially arising from transformable matter and concentration gradients. He also touches upon the concept of vital space and how overcrowding can weaken vitality.

*(Note: This article was originally published in the English section of the Anglo-French review OURANOS, No. 3, January, 1953.)*

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

A letter from a reader expresses surprise at the audience Adamski has found in Anglo-Saxon circles. The writer outlines their ideas on the subject:

1. It is possible Adamski saw a Flying Saucer, but this is of minimal interest.
2. The photos attributed to Adamski are not convincing proof and could be produced by a skilled faker using simple aids like lampshades. The writer states there is no way to verify their authenticity and no reason to treat them as anything other than fakes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a critical and investigative approach to UFO phenomena, encouraging readers to question claims and examine evidence carefully, as exemplified by Meade Layne's "Caveat Emptor" article. There is a strong emphasis on research and the sharing of information among different UFO publications, with the editorial stance being one of openness rather than rivalry. The editor, E. Biddle, appears to align with the Borderland Sciences Research Associates' broad scope of inquiry, which extends beyond UFOs to other unusual topics. The magazine also aims to clarify common confusions, such as date formats, and to provide a platform for diverse viewpoints within the UFO community.

This issue of URANUS, dated July 1955, is a publication focused on flying saucer phenomena, featuring a collection of critical analyses, reader letters, and book reviews. The magazine is published by Markham House Press Ltd. and appears to be a regular periodical dedicated to the subject.

Critiques of George Adamski's Claims

The issue presents a detailed critique of George Adamski's accounts, particularly his descriptions of "landings" and "Venusians." The author argues that witnesses to such events are only credible when unknown to each other and some distance apart; otherwise, their stories lack substance and resemble fables. The differing atmospheric conditions between Venus and Earth are highlighted to question the plausibility of a "Venusian" in a desert. The lack of concrete proof for Adamski's claims is repeatedly emphasized, with the author finding his story to be "ridiculously puerile" and suggesting that if his claims were true, he would possess a thousand irrefutable proofs, not the "suspect and equivocal" ones he offers. The critique extends to Adamski's attempts to prove his story, which are seen as characteristic of a hoaxer. The author also notes that other accounts of flying saucer trips contradict Adamski's and each other, making it difficult to determine who to believe.

Reader Correspondence and Perspectives

Several letters from correspondents offer diverse viewpoints. Aime Michel, writing from Paris, expresses a belief in the reality of flying saucers despite the "puerile dreams" of individuals like Adamski. He stresses the need for humility and prudence when investigating this mystery, warning against sinking into folly and error. Michel also points out that Adamski's saucers resemble those described by other witnesses, suggesting this only indicates a shared idea of the shape of a flying saucer rather than proof of their existence. He also touches upon "Biometric Analysis," finding it insufficient for certainty due to potentially contradictory results from different individuals.

D. Wightman, Chairman of the Wigan & District F.S. Group, responds to a letter by 'Pertinax.' Wightman defends the study of flying saucers, noting the significant time and money invested by his group. He questions 'Pertinax's' tirade against the "Unearthly" and his dismissal of the "Etheric Theory." Wightman suggests that the increase in flying saucer activity shortly after the first atomic explosion is a significant factor that 'Pertinax' overlooks. He also counters 'Pertinax's' claim that visitors have done nothing for humanity, pointing to global conflicts as examples of humanity's own destructive tendencies. Wightman advocates for a more open mind regarding the nature of these visitors and their potential intentions.

D.R. Bentham, writing from Loughborough, comments on an article by Professor Alfred Nahon and Mr. Arundel. He suggests that statements by Russian astronauts regarding future plans for an Artificial Satellite may have been mistranslated, as they refer to nebulous future plans rather than achieved realities. He recalls Nesmeyanov's statement about the satellite being planned, not yet achieved, and notes Soviet scientists' serious engagement with the project.

Book Reviews

The issue includes several book reviews, providing readers with information on current literature in the field:

• OPERATION APHRODITE by Jimmy Guieu: Reviewed by E.B., this book is described as a science-fiction romance where characters encounter "metal-eating lunar life-forms" on the Moon. It is recommended for its exciting narrative.
• L'AGONIE DU VERRE by Jimmy Guieu: Also reviewed by E.B., this novel explores the idea that a mysterious cause of shattered glass objects might originate from Outer Space. The story involves a common peril faced by Americans and Russians, leading to a united effort to overcome a menace with the help of a French scientist's discovery.
• THE CASE FOR THE U.F.O. by M.K. Jessup: Reviewed by W.B. and E.B., this book is noted for presenting arguments and evidence of peculiar happenings, including disappearances and the arrival of objects. The review suggests that the data could also be explained by natural phenomena like comets and meteors or spiritualistic manifestations. Sundry items of evidence are deemed inaccurate, such as the case of Oliver Lerch. The reviewers recommend borrowing the book from a library rather than purchasing it.
• MARS ALLER-RETOUR by F.L. Neher: Announced as "Just arrived from Paris," this book is noted to have been written by an author who had access to Wernher von Braun's notes. A review is promised for the next issue.

Literature Availability

A comprehensive list of "CURRENT FLYING SAUCER LITERATURE AVAILABLE" from Markham House Press Ltd. is provided, detailing books published in Britain, France, and the U.S.A., along with their prices. This section serves as a catalog for interested readers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO claims, particularly those of George Adamski, emphasizing the need for evidence and skepticism. There is a strong undercurrent of intellectual inquiry, with correspondents like Aime Michel advocating for a cautious and humble approach to the mystery of flying saucers. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, but with a firm grounding in critical thinking and a demand for proof, distinguishing between credible reports and speculative fiction. The issue also highlights the growing body of literature on the subject and encourages readers to engage with these works.