Uranus - 1956 - Vol 02 No 6 - Whole No 12

Magazine Overview

Title: URANUS
Issue: Vol. 2 No. 6 (12)
Date: June, 1956
Editor: David Wightman (new editor), E. Biddle (First Editor)
Publisher: MARKHAM HOUSE PRESS LTD.
Country: United Kingdom
Price: 1/9D or 35 CENTS

Editorial Transition and Content Overview

This issue of URANUS, dated June 1956, marks a significant transition as David Wightman takes over as the new editor from Eric Biddle. Wightman introduces himself and provides his temporary address, urging readers to send editorial matters to him. He acknowledges the retirement of Eric Biddle, who is credited with the pioneer work on OURANOS, a predecessor to URANUS, and expresses regret over his departure while reassuring readers that Biddle will continue to contribute material. The editorial also mentions that Biddle's retirement was for personal reasons and not due to external pressure. Markham House Press expressed their appreciation for Biddle's work in initiating and building URANUS.

A potential "SAUCER CONGRESS" is proposed to be held in London in May 1957, aimed at facilitating idea exchange among experts and briefing fans. Readers are invited to submit their ideas on this proposal.

What is Happening in Britain

The article "What is Happening in Britain" reviews the current state of Flying Saucer research in the UK. The author notes that newcomers to the subject might find existing saucer magazines confusing and suggests a review is needed. While three periodicals are mentioned, information on local organizations is scarce. The author appeals for leaders of local organizations to send details to the editor. The article critically assesses the efforts made in Britain to solve the "F.S. Mystery," concluding that "very little has been done" due to a "lack of initiative and drive." Despite a wealth of spectacular news, no practical use has been made of it.

Several authentic sightings are mentioned, including the saucer photographed by Steven Darbishire in Coniston, which is described as famous and borne out by another case of an object seen through a telescope by Mr. Potter of Norwich. Drawings made from the Coniston picture and Adamski's photograph, when subjected to autographic projection by two independent draughtsmen, showed the objects to be identical in shape and proportion. The photographs taken by G.A. have faced criticism from Lonzo Dove, with arguments to be examined in the next issue.

The Coniston affair lasted for days, with D. Leslie conducting experiments to understand the blurred picture. Steven was questioned by Air Ministry officials, but the case "died a natural death." Mr. Potter reported his experience to the B.A.A., receiving a dismissive reply attributing the issue to "a piece of dirt" in the tube. Harold Hill's sighting of a large object followed by smaller ones, which later separated into two, was also reported to the B.A.A. without a satisfactory response.

The article laments the lack of dedicated researchers in Britain compared to figures like Gray Barker, Donald Keyhoe, and James Moseley. It suggests that no one in the field seems to have connections within the Air Ministry (A.M.), and the press, while reporting sightings more accurately, does not delve deeper.

The Brazier sighting, reported in "FLYING SAUCER REVIEW," is highlighted as a result of the editor's own investigation. Drawings were made from Brazier's sketches, and the account was an abbreviated version of his letters. The editor sent details to various magazines and the A.M., leading to a newspaper's interest in an interview, though they missed the editor.

The article also mentions John Otto's articles in "SAUCERS," where he uses his radio knowledge to attempt contact with UFOs, reporting some success. The author encourages enthusiasts with radio knowledge to attempt building a "Light beam transmitter."

It is noted that many people believe saucers are no longer seen, but the author argues that the average person doesn't actively look for them. Saucers are often silent and may not be easily spotted unless flying at low altitudes. Those most likely to see them are pilots, astronomers, ship's captains, and meteorologists, whose occupations often involve government responsibility, suggesting that significant sightings would likely be reported through official channels, thus reducing their likelihood of reaching the press.

Official sources rarely release information on the saucer mystery. An incident in the House of Commons was short-lived, with an MP dismissing it as "balloony." The A.M. has made excuses for not releasing results of its five-year investigation. The editor's attempts to obtain information yielded only a standard reply about investigating sightings and attributing most to natural phenomena.

The current situation in Britain is described as a stalemate, with infrequent sightings and a policy of silence from authorities, which is envied by the Pentagon. Research organizations exist in Bristol, Wigan, and Liverpool, with the latter group behind the "PLAN" announced in "Destiny," though results are pending, with the reason given being that "the Time is not yet ripe for success."

The Air Ministry Talks on "Flying Saucers"

This section details the editor's interview with an Air Ministry official in London on April 9th. The author notes the shift in perception, where such an inquiry would once have been considered "daft." The interview, lasting over two hours, covered various aspects of UFO investigations. The editor's first question concerned a sighting in Scotland on October 28th, where an object was observed at 50ft altitude. The A.M. stated they do not investigate "second hand sighting reports," despite having previously requested details from the editor. Arrangements were made to forward photostatic copies of letters to the A.M. to facilitate the investigation.

The interview also touched upon two other sightings: one by Steven Darbishire near Coniston, notable for its photograph, and another by Flt. Lt. Salandin, a "part time" R.A.F. flyer, who described an object with a "bun shaped top, a flange like two saucers in the middle and a bun underneath." The A.M. official did not know the answer to either of these sightings but promised forthcoming information.

An "air to air" sighting involving a Portugese "Skymaster" pilot and co-pilot was described as a long, cigar-shaped, silvery object moving at "tremendous speed." The A.M. concluded this was a "long toy balloon," a conclusion the editor found unconvincing and "daft."

Further points covered included the A.M.'s lack of cooperation with other countries investigating the saucer problem, despite the editor listing five such nations. The A.M. stated that "Numbers are not available" when asked for statistics on solved and unsolved cases. There is no separate body within the A.M. investigating UFOs. Surprisingly, the Ministry expressed anxiety about avoiding a situation similar to that prevailing in the U.S.A.

The official stated he was privately uninterested in the subject, attributing it to being "indoctrinated with official procedure" since 1946. He did not believe the report made by the A.M. would ever be made public, and most answers came from "stock" responses. Both parties were reminded that printing restricted information could lead to serious trouble and jeopardize future interviews. The editor concludes that the A.M. is "SERIOUSLY INTERESTED IN THE SAUCER PROBLEM" and will continue investigations.

Cataclysm Has Begun (Book Review)

This section includes a letter to the editor regarding a book titled "Cataclysm Has Begun." The reader purchased the book based on a controversy mentioned in URANUS but was disappointed. They found the author's conclusion "inexcusable" and felt the book suggested the world would continue orbiting for millions of years without major changes, contrary to the book's implied premise.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the state of UFO research in Britain, the perceived lack of progress and initiative, and the official stance of the Air Ministry. The magazine highlights specific sightings and investigations while criticizing the limited transparency and cooperation from governmental bodies. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking more information and transparency regarding UFO phenomena, and encouraging reader engagement and participation in the subject. There is a clear emphasis on the need for more systematic research and a desire to move beyond mere reporting of sightings to a deeper understanding of the phenomenon.

This issue of URANUS magazine, spanning pages 111-119 and likely from 1955, features a collection of articles and reviews related to flying saucers, scientific progress, and societal anxieties. The publication is from Markham House Press, based in London.

Editorial Content

Fear vs. Progress: The A-Bomb and Evolution

The lead article on page 111 addresses the prevalent "A-Bomb neurotic" sentiment, arguing that science should not stand still due to fear of nuclear energy. The author suggests that this discovery offers an opportunity to raise humanity to a higher level of culture, with the energy being channelled for benefit rather than destruction. The piece emphasizes that progress requires embracing scientific discoveries, even if they carry risks, and that the greater burden lies in understanding and shouldering the responsibilities that come with new knowledge. It posits that humanity is still in the process of evolution and has the choice to progress or self-destruct, urging against faltering due to a loss of faith in the human race.

Odd Bits? Here and There

Page 112 presents a collection of brief, intriguing reports:

• Advanced Alloys: A letter from Henry Moray in Salt Lake City details scientists' advancements in alloys, including a lead-copper alloy melting at 8,400°F, an extremely hard aluminum, and a lead-copper-aluminum alloy that is ductile and melts at 6,000°C.
• 'Little Man' Incident: A creature was reported to "bounce along" near Cinncinatti, reminiscent of a previous report, "THING FROM BRADFORD".
• Earth's Core Saucers: A Brazilian Naval commander suggests saucers come from the center of the Earth, supporting Richard S. Shaver's theories from "Amazing Stories" about "dero" living in underground caverns.
• Image Intensifier: Rumors suggest an "Image Intensifier" device, which enhances telescopic images, has been fitted to a large U.S. telescope.
• Fortean Phenomena: Keyhoe's new book mentions thousands of birds dying and falling in the same area, categorized as "Fortean phenomena." While explanations are attempted in the book, they are found lacking. Similar occurrences in the UK are attributed to chemical insecticides.
• Gray Barker's New Book: "They knew too much about Flying Saucers" by Gray Barker is announced as forthcoming.

Hostility?

Pages 113-114 discuss the possibility of UFOs engaging in aggressive action, referencing a November 1955 "ORBIT" headline, "THE CASE FOR INTERPLANETARY WAR." The article questions whether UFOs have moved beyond surveillance to aggression, citing the disappearance of planes as a cause for concern. It highlights the "Kimross affair," where a UFO was tracked on radar, and a pursuing jet interceptor appeared to merge with it, with no wreckage found. The official explanation of a Canadian airliner is dismissed as untenable by Keyhoe and Capt. Ed. Stone.

Further incidents include the disappearance of five "Avengers" and one "Martin Mariner" aircraft during a routine flight, covering 160 miles but resulting in the loss of all crew and the search planes. The article also mentions military planes blowing up unaccountably and a power failure incident in Danville, California, on December 23rd, 1955, which was given significant coverage.

Other reported incidents include a trawler mystery with 17 lost, an airliner diving to avoid collision, and a passenger ship sinking near Campeche, Mexico, followed by the crash of a search plane. The article notes that meteors and fireballs are seized upon by "ORBIT" as evidence for an "Interplanetary War" postulation. It also mentions that man-made satellites will be launched in 1957 as part of the Geophysical year.

Flying Saucer Investigation in the Antipodes

Pages 115-116 detail UFO investigation organizations in Australia and New Zealand:

• Australia:
• The Australian Flying Saucer Research Society (22 Northcote Street, Kilburn, South Australia), publishing the quarterly "AUSTRALIAN SAUCER RECORD."
• The Australian F.S. Investigation Committee (G.P.O. Box 578, Melbourne, Victoria), which may no longer exist.
• The Interplanetary Research Group (357 Argyle Street, Hobart, Tasmania), which publishes a quarterly review.
• New Zealand:
• Six organizations are listed, including two in Auckland: The Civilian Saucer Investigation (P.O. Box 1914, publishing "Flying Saucers") and another F.S. Investigation Club (21 Maungakeikei Avenue, One Tree Hill).
• In Christchurch, the New Zealand Interplanetary Society (55 Tedder Avenue).
• In Dunedin, a branch of the Civilian Saucer Investigation (860 Cumberland Street).
• Two groups in Hamilton: F.S. Investigation (10 James Street) and Hamilton F.S. Investigation Society (164 River Road).

Book Reviews

Pages 116-119 review several books and publications:

• The SAUCERIAN REVIEW: Edited by Gray Barker, this quarterly publication is described as extremely well-produced and informative. It has been revived annually after a hiatus, with 100 pages and approximately 50,000 words. Barker also plans to issue a press bulletin, the "SAUCERIAN BULLETIN," for current activities.
• THE FLYING SAUCER CONSPIRACY by Major Donald E. Keyhoe: This book, unfortunately not yet available in Britain, is a chronological sequence of sightings. Keyhoe reportedly had hoped the American government would release UFO information in 1953, but secrecy only increased. The book details how two opposing bodies in the Pentagon clashed over information release. It covers 100 recent, authentic sightings, including the "Nansei-shoto Riddle" in the Pacific, where a large number of unidentified planes were tracked on radar approaching a task force, but were not visually confirmed by pilots. The Navy officially confirmed the radar story but offered no explanation.

The book also includes sightings and phenomena pointing to a hostile motive, such as fires caused by fireballs and meteorites, and the disappearance of aircraft like the "Avengers" and "Martin Mariner." The "unknown" radar mystery over Lake Superior, where a fighter plane appeared to collide with an unidentified object, is also analyzed, with Keyhoe and Capt. Stone concluding the official explanation was impossible.

Markham House Press offers to exchange copies of URANUS for flying saucer publications worldwide.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO phenomena, often questioning official explanations and suggesting a more complex reality, including potential extraterrestrial intelligence and even hostility. There's a recurring theme of challenging public fear, particularly concerning technological advancements like nuclear energy, and advocating for continued scientific progress and human evolution. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unexplained phenomena, critical of government secrecy, and supportive of UFO research organizations.