Uranus - 1957 - Vol 04 No 1 - Whole No 19

Magazine Overview

This document is the August 1957 issue, Volume 4, Number 1, of "URANUS FLYING SAUCERS," a magazine focused on space travel and UFO phenomena. It is edited by David Wightman and published by Markham House Press Ltd. in London, UK. The cover features a prominent illustration of a flying saucer with the title "URANUS" and the tagline "SPACE TRAVEL FLYING SAUCERS." The issue includes a table of contents listing several articles, including "Feudin and a Fussin...", "Saucers. Satan or Sorcerers?" by Gerald H. Fellows, "The Luminosity of Flying Saucers" by C. F. Krafft, and "A New Key to the U.F.O's Appearances."

The Editor's Page

The "Editor's Page" begins with a reminder for correspondence to be sent to the editor at 'Vimana', Sandy Lane, Hindley, Nr. Wigan, Lancs. It then addresses a correction regarding Viktor Schauberger, clarifying that the note in the previous issue was based on information from Egerton Sykes, editor of the sister journal PENDULUM, and not from a personal meeting with the editor of URANUS.

"Feudin and a Fussin..."

This section discusses Jim Moseley, editor of "Saucer News," and his belief that most UFO reports are attributable to experimental Earth-based craft. It highlights an article by Moseley in URANUS that presented information about these craft, their purpose, and operators. The article notes that Moseley's claims were met with criticism, and he gave limited space to opposing views. The text also mentions that "Saucer News" is generally well-regarded for its interesting content, but questions arise when spectacular developments appear frequently, as genuine breakthroughs in the UFO mystery are rare. The article suggests that Moseley's magazine contained "fertilizer" for suspicion in the form of an article by Thomas Comella, which discussed different types of UFO researchers and a tactic called "Confidential Collaboration." This method involves two researchers agreeing to take opposing stances in print to generate reactions and information. The text then details a "feud" between Jim Moseley and Gray Barker, editor of "Saucerian Bulletin" and "Saucer Review." A letter, originally sent in confidence to "Cosmic News" and then passed to Gray Barker, is discussed. This letter purportedly comes from someone with military service ties and accuses Moseley of being paid by the U.S. Air Force to promote an Earth-based theory for UFOs. The article questions Barker's decision to publish this letter, especially given the writer's request for confidentiality, and speculates that the timing might be due to a lack of copy for both editors. It also notes that Barker had previously hinted Moseley did not travel to Peru as he claimed, though the editor of URANUS has corresponded with Moseley and received letters from Peru. The piece concludes by suggesting that if Moseley is not connected to the Air Force, the letter could be easily refuted, but if he and Barker are "Confidential Collaborators," the feud might continue without yielding useful results for UFO investigation.

Saucers. Satan or Sorcerers? by Gerald H. Fellows

This article explores the origins of UFOs, presenting three main possibilities: secret weapons of a nation on Earth, space ships from another planet, or supernatural entities from a spiritual realm. The secret weapon theory is largely dismissed due to the intelligent control and maneuverability observed in UFOs, and the unlikelihood of a nation revealing such a device. The possibility of extraterrestrial visitors is considered popular among those who claim personal contact, but astronomers and scientists find it unlikely. The article leans towards the supernatural explanation, noting that many UFO proponents, like George Adamski and G. Van Tassel, exhibit a spiritual or angelic tone in their claims. It references biblical accounts of angels appearing to Abraham and discusses the concept of "fallen angels" misleading humanity. The author suggests that figures like Adamski and Van Tassel might be misled, overlooking biblical truths, particularly concerning life after death and judgment. The piece concludes by referencing Luke 21:28, urging readers to "look up and lift up your heads, for your redemption draweth nigh."

The Luminosity of Flying Saucers by C.F. Krafft

This article investigates the luminosity of flying saucers, noting that it is not always present and may be related to their acceleration. It suggests the luminosity could be a corona effect of high voltage, potentially leading to the spaceship becoming electrostatically charged, especially if it uses a propellant called "supermatter." Supermatter is described as electrically neutral but decomposing into positive gaseous ions. It differs from ordinary matter by having direct core-to-core connections between atoms, a concept that challenges prevailing nuclear theory. The author posits that the physics profession's adherence to nuclear theory may hinder experimental production of supermatter. If supermatter is produced, current plans for interplanetary travel would become obsolete. The article explores the potential of supermatter as a gravitational and inertial shield for spaceships, noting it would need a high melting point and low chemical activity, with silver and copper suggested as suitable materials. It explains that gravitational and inertial forces are related to protons and ether-vortex rings, and a supermatter coating could prevent these forces from affecting the interior of the spaceship. Such a coating could also protect pilots from cosmic radiation. The article concludes by stating that the supermatter coating, if it stops outwardly moving ether puffs, would become heated and radiate energy back into space.

Two Points of View!

This section presents two contrasting perspectives on UFO research.

1. From Lee R. Munsick, Editor of the U.F.O. Newsletter

Munsick expresses concern about a tendency towards irresponsibility in UFO research, stemming from the overlap between the "logical methodically proceeding group" and the "fanatic-fringe" who incorporate religious, pseudo-religious, cultist, and metaphysical applications. He argues that these two groups should remain separate, as their convergence leads to dangerous tendencies that undermine both fields. He criticizes "unthinking mental acrobats" who produce irresponsible printed material, with over "two score publications" in the field. Despite this, Munsick believes it is necessary for individuals in both camps to engage with each other's work and correspond freely, while remaining honest about their own beliefs. He warns against advocates of one camp assuming leadership roles in the other, deeming it dishonest and a cause of trouble. He cites this trend as a dangerous one that has contributed to the loss of a significant UFO publication and calls for it to be stopped.

2. From Jose Escobar Faria, Editor U.F.O. Critical Bulletin, Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Faria uses the Latin maxim "Ignotum por ignotius" (the unknown explained by the still more unknown) to critique UFO psychical research. While acknowledging the validity of some paranormal research, such as that by Dr. J.B. Rhine, he argues that parapsychology, including mental cybernetics and telepathy, requires a cultural background and should not be solely based on religious feelings. He observes that UFO psychical research has led to confusion and contradiction, posing a headache for genuine researchers. Faria asserts that parapsychology has no connection to UFOs, nor do "Itching saucerites" who belong to religious groups. He views these groups as seeking escapism, wanting to "wander above the clouds" with the aid of "Flying crutches" and "clownish scientificism."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of URANUS FLYING SAUCERS revolve around the nature and origin of UFOs, the scientific and pseudoscientific approaches to studying them, and the controversies within the UFO community. The magazine appears to present a range of viewpoints, from those exploring scientific possibilities like advanced propulsion systems (supermatter, ionic propulsion) to those delving into supernatural and religious interpretations. There's a clear engagement with the internal debates and rivalries among UFO researchers and editors, particularly the exchange between Jim Moseley and Gray Barker. The editorial stance, as evidenced by the inclusion of diverse articles and the editor's notes, seems to be one of open inquiry, presenting different theories and criticisms, while also expressing a degree of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims and the more fringe elements of UFOlogy, as highlighted by Lee R. Munsick's contribution. The magazine aims to cover "SPACE TRAVEL" and the mystery of "FLYING SAUCERS" by presenting various perspectives and ongoing discussions in the field.

This issue of "Uranus" (pages 131-140) explores various facets of UFO phenomena, blending interpretations of biblical texts with contemporary sightings and theories. The publication appears to be a "Saucerzine" from the mid-20th century, as indicated by references to historical events and the style of reporting.

Interpretation of UFOs and the Bible

The issue begins by discussing a characteristic form of "Itching saucerite," which involves interpreting UFOs in the light of the Bible. It suggests that biblical miracles might be myths and symbols, citing ancient Indian epics like the "Ramayana" and "Mahabharata" as examples. The stopping of the sun by Joshua and the miracle of the ravens and Elijah are presented not as true happenings but as "sibylline texts." The article advocates for consulting Antoine Fabre d'Olivet's translation of the Pentateuch, "La Langue Hebraique Restituee," to understand potential inaccuracies and mistranslations in the current Bible, which originated from the Latin "Vulgate" and the Alexandrine Septuagint.

Key Figures and Claims

George Adamski and Gabriel Green are highlighted as "distinguished builders of 'Castles in Spain.'" Adamski is quoted as saying he is "in touch with" Jupiterians and Neptunians who are reportedly living and working in Mexico and Guatemala. He expresses a desire to visit other planets. Gabriel Green has formed the "Economic Security Party" and publishes "Thy Kingdom Come," stating that humanity has been "ruled long enough by man made laws." The text notes that many groups worldwide engage in "mental chats" with space people, mentioning one in Brazil called "Amo-Pax Monasterio."

A Flurry of Activity: Wigan Sightings

The magazine reports on five UFO sightings within a 30 sq mile area around Wigan, Lancashire, occurring over a ten-day period starting June 11th. The editor claims to be a witness after a five-year wait. A particularly significant observation is detailed from Mr. G. Marsden of Chorley, an astronomer and member of the Lunar and Planetary Observers of New Mexico. On Saturday, June 15th, at approximately 6:06 PM near Mawdesley, Marsden observed a point of light through his telescope. He estimated the object to be 25 ft in diameter, silver in color with a bluish tint, moving at 500-600 mph at an altitude of 6-7,000 ft in a West North Westerly direction. The sky was clear, and visibility was good. After observing it for 12 seconds in horizontal flight, the object ascended vertically for about 15 seconds before disappearing. Marsden ruled out a balloon due to wind velocity and noted the object did not resemble any visible planetary body at that time.

Marsden reportedly considered his observation a "public confession" as he had previously dismissed Flying Saucers as "somewhat absurd" during astronomical lectures. The editor hopes to obtain a tape-recorded interview with Marsden for the Air Ministry, which previously stated they investigated personal reports only. The article criticizes the Air Ministry's official explanation of sightings as "balloons," "meteors et al," comparing it to giving Diana Dors a lecture on the "Birds and the bees." It suggests that while the press in England is not censored, science editors' connections and knowledge of official departments influence their reporting.

A sketch of the observed object, attributed to Mr. G. Marsden of 23 Scawfell Road, Chorley, is included.

A New Key to UFO Appearances

An article from "Infinity Newsletter" (March) proposes a "KEY" to understanding UFO appearances, based on the theory that the Sun's powerful magnetic field induces a field in the planets, creating a weak "Earth Magnetic Field" (EMF). The theory posits that UFOs travel via magnetic fields and would follow the "Magnetic Equator" of such a field. This "Sun's magnetic equator" (SME) shifts its position relative to Earth at different hours and seasons, leading UFOs to appear in specific areas at specific times. The article outlines the SME's position in the Summer (40 deg parallel in USA/Europe by day, South America/Africa/Australia by night) and Winter (South America/Africa/Australia by day, 40 deg parallel in USA/Europe by night), with Spring and Fall occurrences near the Earth's equator. The newsletter, known since 1941 as "The Planet," promises "startling facts" and claims to have hunted down the "SECRET BASES OF THE FLYING SAUCERS."

Letters and Correspondence

A Letter from Mr. Edgar Sievers

Edgar Sievers of Pretoria writes to Alonzo Dove regarding an article titled "Photo mix-up." Sievers suggests the issue is not just Adamski's muddle but involves others. He contends that the article aimed to show that a particular photograph was not taken on December 13th but earlier, implying Adamski is unreliable. Sievers questions the value of supporting this point with correspondence from four years after the event, suggesting it would have been more impactful when the news was fresh. He also mentions receiving input from Jerrold Baker, his wife, Clara Louise John, and Lonzo Dove, but states he prefers Adamski's "atmosphere." Sievers concludes by saying his correspondence is closed as he has more work to do in finding out about people who "HAVE come here from Venus long before we became able to squabble over them."

Odd Bits

This section mentions receiving the "first piece of MATERIAL EVIDENCE" confirming the extra-terrestrial origin of Flying Saucers from an overseas correspondent, with details promised for the next issue. Further tape recordings have been received from Dr. Dittmar in America, including a 90-minute talk by Howard Menger and a lecture by Frank Edwards.

Predictions and Prophecies

Predictions in the News

Gray Barker is quoted predicting a "major breakthrough on the release of Saucer information" in the summer, driven by an incident interpreted as an "overt threat."

The World to End in 1991?

This section recounts the life of Ursula Sonteil, known as "Old Mother Shipton," born in 1488. She was a soothsayer who predicted events like the Great Fire of London and men sailing round the world. Her most terrifying prophecy is that "The world then to an end will come, in nineteen hundred and ninety one."

Saucer or Cow?

A brief anecdote recalls a Hungarian refugee who claimed to see three little men and a Flying Saucer, which was humorously explained as his wife worrying about cows and carrying a lantern.

Clips, Quotes, and Comments

Dr. Lee Forrest, described as a prominent American scientist and "the father of electronics," is quoted predicting that man will never reach the moon, calling such a feat a "wild dream worthy of Jules Verne."

The Coming of the Guardians & Visit of Mr. Gray Barker

This section advertises a revised edition of "The Coming of the Guardians" by Meade Layne, available from Markham House Press, Ltd. It also announces that Mr. Gray Barker, an American authority on Flying Saucers, will visit England in September.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the interpretation of UFO phenomena through religious and scientific lenses, the credibility of UFO witnesses and researchers, and the potential for extraterrestrial contact. There is a critical stance towards official explanations of UFO sightings, particularly from the Air Ministry, and a willingness to explore unconventional theories. The editorial tone is inquisitive and sometimes skeptical, encouraging readers to consider various perspectives while also highlighting specific sightings and claims with a degree of seriousness, albeit with occasional journalistic flair and humor.