Uranus - 1956 - Vol 02 No 5 - Whole No 11

Magazine Overview

Title: URANUS FLYING SAUCERS
Issue: Vol. 2 No. 5 (11)
Date: April, 1956
Publisher: MARKHAM HOUSE PRESS LTD.
Country: United Kingdom
Editor: E. BIDDLE

This issue of Uranus Flying Saucers, published bi-monthly, features a range of articles and letters concerning UFO phenomena, contactees, and related research.

This and That (Editor's Column)

In his column, the editor, E. Biddle, announces his resignation from the post, citing personal circumstances, and promises to reveal his successor in the next issue. He briefly comments on James Moseley's publication 'SAUCER NEWS', suggesting Moseley's idea that Flying Saucers are American secret devices is ingenious but unconvincing, and questions Moseley's sincerity, wondering if he is 'playing the Air Force game'. Biddle also mentions exciting news from Gray Barker of 'SAUCERIAN', regarding a forthcoming book by Barker. He notes that Barker's investigation into the Bender affair was previously circulated privately and that his new book might contain interesting, though potentially mixed, material, referencing the 'Shaver drivel' from 'Amazing Stories'.

Review: 'THEY KNEW TOO MUCH ABOUT F.S.'

This section extensively discusses a book by Gray Barker, titled 'THEY KNEW TOO MUCH ABOUT F.S.'. The blurb for the book is quoted, describing it as a story about the Flatwoods 'monster' and the author's three-year investigation into the saucer mystery. The book reportedly details Barker becoming Chief Investigator for the International Flying Saucer Bureau of Bridgeport, Conn., and the organization being shut down by men in black suits. The author claims to reveal inside stories after acquiring secret correspondence files from an Australian organization. The book is described as a 'behind-the-scenes chronicle of civilian saucer research', immensely readable, and frightening.

Our Competition

The magazine ran a competition asking readers what they would do if a spaceship landed near them. The response was poor, with only five entries. The winning entry, from Prof. V. Filmer of S. Africa, is published. Filmer outlines a detailed plan of action, including remaining static, attempting to establish 'rapport' through gestures and communication, offering a souvenir, and drawing a map of the solar universe. He emphasizes the importance of obtaining irrefutable evidence and suggests that many existing books on visitations are worthless due to a lack of such evidence.

Letter from W. A. Elvidge (London)

In a lighter vein, W. A. Elvidge recounts a hypothetical scenario from a previous issue of Uranus (July 1955) posed by the editor: 'Suppose you were all alone in a quiet country spot miles from anywhere and a saucer hove in sight and landed near you. Imagine a being.... what would you do?'. Elvidge describes his probable reaction: assessing the being for hostility and weapons, and if threatened, fleeing immediately. If the being were unarmed and friendly, he would note its location, attempt to get it into his car, and take it to Scotland Yard, deeming local police too 'stupid' to handle the situation appropriately.

Letters to the Editor

In Support of Adamski

A letter from A. ARUNDEL of Wales defends George Adamski against an attack by M. Aimé Michel. Arundel argues that a scientific mind should not dismiss experiences without proof and that Adamski's testimony should be evaluated based on internal evidence. He criticizes Michel's description of Adamski's testimony as 'puerile dreams' as revealing prejudice. Arundel also mentions Mr. Angelucci's account of a journey in a flying saucer as convincing and suggests that Venus may have an 'etheric counterpart'.

And Now the Other Side

A letter from Harold T. Wilkins of Kent, England, presents a counter-argument regarding Adamski and similar UFO claims. Wilkins, who claims to be involved in a 'hoaxing book' related to the topic, suggests that such hoaxes bring the subject into disrepute. He references reports from Central and South America involving governments being scared by 'cosmic visitants' using 'pain and paralysis rays' and 'electro-magnetic and fire-raising rays'. Wilkins also shares a letter from a woman in Ireland who believes Adamski, though perhaps a 'simple man', may have imposed his visions on others. Wilkins strongly disputes the idea that Adamski made little money from his book, citing publishers' admissions of 200,000 copies sold in Britain alone and considerable sums from overseas sales, serializations, and translations, suggesting Adamski is financially well-off. He also questions the conferral of the title 'Professor' on Adamski, noting his past as a handyman at an observatory.

Review: 'Cataclysm Has Begun'

This section includes a letter from a reader responding to a review by Mr. Wightman of the booklet 'Cataclysm Has Begun'. The letter writer argues that Wightman read the booklet with a 'closed eye', misquoting and omitting key points. The writer clarifies that the booklet refers to prophecies from Biblical figures and other seers, not exact calculations from unknown science, and that the Society of Metaphysicians can predict trends in human affairs. The letter also discusses the apathy of the general public towards broader social welfare and spiritual principles, a sentiment shared by those dedicated to service, including churches.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue reflects a continued engagement with the UFO phenomenon, particularly focusing on the credibility of contactees like George Adamski and the research presented by figures such as Gray Barker and James Moseley. The magazine appears to present differing viewpoints, as evidenced by the contrasting letters from A. Arundel and Harold T. Wilkins regarding Adamski. The editor's resignation suggests a transition in the publication's leadership. There is a clear interest in investigative journalism within the UFO field, as well as reader participation through competitions and letters. The publication also touches upon broader themes of societal apathy and the potential for cataclysmic events, as seen in the review of 'Cataclysm Has Begun'. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, allowing for diverse opinions and critiques within the UFO community.

This issue of URANUS, spanning pages 91-100, appears to be a compilation of articles, letters, and bulletins related to the Flying Saucer phenomenon and related topics, likely from early 1956 given the date of a letter (February 15th, 1956).

Content Analysis

Article: The Nature of Character and Societal Crises

The issue opens with a philosophical discussion on assessing human character, questioning why difficulty should deter vital work. It touches upon the concept of an 'isolated community' and draws parallels to a gardener protecting a delicate plant from pests and inclement weather. The author suggests that a community would not subject itself to the distortions of modern life, especially in the context of current international crises.

A significant portion of this section addresses the 'imminence' of atomic warfare. It posits that trends in human affairs can be calculated, leading to future crises. While absolute certainty is not possible, a probability of over 60% suggests wise planning is necessary. The author emphasizes that the views presented are not solely their own but represent the 'joint and considered opinion of many great men.' The influence of radio, the Press, and major governments on this issue is highlighted, with a reference to Professor Einstein.

Letter to the Editor: Rebuttal to Mr. Wightman

A letter from John J. Williamson, Founder-President of the SOCIETY OF METAPHISICIANS, Ltd., dated February 15th, 1956, from Hastings, England, addresses Mr. Wightman's views on weather and atomic dust. Williamson criticizes Wightman's reasoning, suggesting that good weather in England is not sufficient proof that atomic dusts do not affect the weather. He points out that weather is not confined to England and notes the differing weather patterns in America. Williamson also criticizes Mr. Wightman for ignoring 80% of the technical material in a booklet and for not comprehending the probabilities discussed, unlike Dr. Low.

Article: U.F.O.'s - UNITY or "UTOPIA" by John Pitt

This article discusses the Flying Saucer controversy, noting that eight years prior, there was more unanimity among the public. In 1955, Pitt observes a lack of unity, with two factions: one interested in the original mystery, and another possessing 'facts' and spreading a doctrine supposedly from beings who man Flying Saucers. Pitt labels these factions "UFO-ery" and "Saucery".

"UFO-ery" debates whether Saucers are man-made or from Outer Space, and whether the intelligences are human, humanoid, or 'Things'. All agree that those flying these craft are of high intelligence.

"Saucery" is described as having divisions of opinion, with material supplied from Outer Space, the Astral plane, via Telepathy, and from 'Idealists'. The focus in "Saucery" shifts from the Saucers themselves to "Teachings" and advice from "extra-Terrestrials", leading it to become a "Space-Cult".

Pitt suggests this division baffles newcomers and that the Saucer subject is replacing older jokes, indicating an undercurrent of fear. He attributes this to Mankind being traumatized by wars and scared by scientific advances, leading people to grasp at philosophies offering hope.

The article further explores the 'Saucerer' mentality, suggesting it's a sign of a spiritual upheaval, similar to how Mankind outgrew Middle Ages theologies. Pitt asserts that Saucers are concrete, physical realities, but 'muddled-headedness' has confused reality into 'Saucery'. He recalls the argument against Saucers being man-made on Earth due to their speed and maneuverability, but suggests they might be remotely controlled. He speculates about their development as guided missiles in World War II and mentions recent US releases concerning discoid flying machines, linking it to alleged German disc-like machines. Dr. Wernher von Braun's denial of such experiments is noted, with the caveat that his work for the US government might have restricted his truthful disclosure for security reasons.

Pitt also considers the possibility of another power, as great as the USA, developing such machines, leading to questions about government spending on outdated aircraft or the non-production of guided interceptory missiles.

He criticizes "Saucery" for discarding these problems in favor of 'Spiritual upliftment by vagrant extra-Terrestrial Messiahs'. Pitt warns that 'all that glitters is not gold' and questions the means by which the 'hodge-podge of mixed Astral and Telepathic "Teaching"' is communicated, and the psychological makeup of those claiming to be mouthpieces. He concludes that if Spacemen exist, they are likely 'misleading and mischievous Astral entities'. He believes "Saucery" is harming the more materialistic field of UFO-ery and has had a negative effect on Spiritualism.

Letter to the Editor: Georges H. Gallet

Georges H. Gallet, writing from Paris, responds to an invitation to look at articles he provided. He notes three points:
1. His argumentation uses well-known Saucerian sources for objectivity.
2. He witnessed an 'unexplained celestial phenomenon' while visiting his mother in West of France.
3. He believes Shakespeare's lines about 'more things in heaven than are dreamt of in our philosophy' apply to UFOs, suggesting no single explanation suffices.

Gallet also clarifies his role as the 'French introducer' of Ray Z. Gallun's "novel" 'A BEAST OF THE VOID', noting a pleasant French alliteration between 'Soucoupes Volantes' and 'Soucoupes Vivantes'.

The Saucerian Bulletin

This section announces the launch of 'The Saucerian Review', a six-page offset bulletin replacing 'The Saucerian' magazine, edited by Mr. Gray Barker. The subscription rate is $2.50 for six issues abroad. Mr. Barker also plans to publish the 'Saucerian Review' at $1.50, containing 100 pages of reports from 1955.

Can Any Reader Help Us?

This section seeks assistance in tracing a client, Mr. R. F. Moyer, who sent a $1.50 Money Order from Los Angeles but provided no address or instructions.

Available Magazine Sets

A list of available magazine sets is provided, including NEXUS/SAUCER NEWS, CRIFCO/ORBIT, SAUCERS (Leading U.S. Quarterly), and AUSTRALIAN F.S. JOURNAL, with prices and issue details. Markham House Press Ltd. is listed as the distributor.

Current Flying Saucer Literature Available

A comprehensive list of available literature on Flying Saucers is presented, categorized into 'Published in English' and 'Published in French', with authors, titles, publication years, and prices in British pounds and US dollars. Markham House Press Ltd. is again listed as the source.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a critical and analytical stance towards the Flying Saucer phenomenon, particularly distinguishing between empirical investigation ('UFO-ery') and the more spiritual or cult-like interpretations ('Saucery'). There's a concern about the potential harm caused by the latter, seen as misleading and distracting from genuine inquiry. The magazine also touches upon broader societal anxieties, including the threat of atomic warfare and the human need for hope and explanation in uncertain times. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded but cautious, encouraging critical thinking and objective analysis of available evidence, while acknowledging the complexity and multifaceted nature of the UFO subject.