Weltraumbote - No 50-51 - 1960

Magazine Overview

Title: WELTRAUMBOTE
Issue: 50/51
Volume: 5. Jahrgang
Date: May-June 1960
Publisher: UFO-Verlag Zürich
Country: Switzerland
Language: German
Cover Headline: Glühender Flugapparat über der Steiermark (Glowing Flying Apparatus over Styria)

Main Article: Glowing Flying Apparatus over Styria

The issue leads with a detailed account of a UFO sighting by Edgar Schedelbauer, a 36-year-old technician and former soldier. On March 2, 1960, around 1 AM, Schedelbauer witnessed a bright, luminous object emerge from above a forest near Radkersburg, Austria. The object flew low over a clearing, then descended to about 15 meters above the road, hovering for 6-7 seconds. Schedelbauer described it as resembling a "glowing spider" and felt a distinct "radiation." The object then emitted a humming sound, followed by a howl similar to that of jet aircraft, before disappearing towards Radkersburg. Schedelbauer managed to photograph the object.

US Air Force Directive on UFOs

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the US Air Force's new directive to treat UFO observations as a "serious matter" and to handle them as a national defense issue. This directive was revealed by NICAP (National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena). The article cites General Inspector Richard E. O'Keefe, who stated that unidentified flying objects (UFOs) are a serious concern for the US Air Force, with three main interests: potential danger to national security, contribution to technical and scientific progress, and explaining sightings to the public. The directive emphasizes that investigations should be realistic and understandable, primarily handled by the Air Force's intelligence services. The article also mentions that the Air Force has investigated 6312 UFO reports since 1947, including 183 in the latter half of 1959. Former CIA head and NICAP board member, Vice-Admiral R. H. Hillenkoetter, stated that the truth about UFOs needs to be brought to light through open congressional discussions.

Scientific Perspectives on Extraterrestrial Life

The magazine features several contributions from scientists and experts discussing the possibility of intelligent life in the universe.

• Prof. Bernard Lovell of Jodrell Bank Observatory, who previously dismissed the idea of "flying saucers," now admits his earlier radical claims were mere theories.
• Prof. Dr. L. Tikhow, the "Father of Astro-Botany," asserts that life exists on Mars.
• Dr. Ono Struwe from the Green Bank Institute believes that radio telescopes can detect artificial signals from neighboring civilizations.
• Prof. C. D. Darlington, a renowned English biologist, suggests that the physical advantages of bipedalism and having a brain make the possibility of similar extraterrestrial beings a serious consideration.
• Dr. C. F. Powell, a Nobel laureate in Physics, believes it is not unreasonable to assume the existence of beings in our galaxy whose physical conditions resemble ours, some potentially far more technologically advanced.

Project Ozma and Interstellar Communication

Dr. Frank Drake, leader of Project Ozma, has prepared three questions for a more advanced planetary civilization: about healing cancer, harnessing the hydrogen bomb for peaceful energy, and developing human spiritual abilities.

Other Notable Reports and Discussions

• Dr. Herman J. Muller, a geneticist and Nobel laureate, suggests that over 100 million inhabited planets may exist, some with life forms and intelligences far beyond human comprehension.
• Dr. Wernher von Braun, a leading rocket specialist, believes an astronaut will eventually encounter extraterrestrial beings.
• G. Bromley Oxnam, Bishop of the Methodist Church, states that humanity must be prepared to communicate with intelligent beings from other planets.
• Nelson Rockefeller, Governor of New York, has stated that reports from credible experts and experienced pilots regarding UFOs should be taken seriously.
• Dr. Harlow Shapley (former head of Harvard Observatory) and Dr. Clyde W. Tombaugh (discoverer of Pluto) are mentioned as scientists who believe in other intelligent civilizations.
• The US Air Force, in a letter to Senator Kenneth B. Keating, acknowledged that suggested answers regarding the origin of UFOs have never been rejected, though they claim no proof of interplanetary origin.
• Dr. S. Fred Singer, advisor to President Eisenhower, has accepted the theory of Russian Professor Shklovskij regarding artificial Martian moons (Phobos).
• Dr. G. Plekhanov, head of the Betatron Laboratory in Tomsk, concluded that the "comet" that hit Siberia on June 30, 1908, was likely a spaceship from Venus, leaving a highly radioactive area.

The Dewilde Case

Another section revisits the case of Marius Dewilde, detailing a second encounter on October 10, 1954. Dewilde reported being visited again by "little beings" from a spacecraft. He described a machine similar in form and size to the one from his previous encounter, with a rectangular opening and a row of humps around its base. He observed two beings outside the craft, dressed in dark gray suits, and later two more emerged. One of the beings, who appeared to be the leader, approached Dewilde. The being was about 1.10 meters tall, wore a helmet with a transparent visor, and had a Mongolian appearance. Dewilde noted its human-like smile and gestures. He heard sounds from inside the machine, possibly of pain, and saw various polished objects, buttons, and measuring devices.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently advocates for a serious and critical approach to UFO phenomena, urging the public and authorities not to dismiss reports. It emphasizes the importance of truthfulness and comprehensive reporting, even when facing skepticism. The editorial stance is that UFOs are a legitimate subject of study and that official secrecy or ridicule is detrimental. The publication aims to provide factual information and encourage open discussion, positioning itself as an independent and critical journal dedicated to the dissemination of reports and opinions on "flying saucers."

This issue of OURANOS, identified as volume 1960 and issue 33/34, is dedicated to documenting a wide array of Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) sightings and related phenomena reported globally during late 1959 and early 1960. The magazine presents a compilation of witness testimonies, official reports, and journalistic accounts, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview of the UFO wave during that period. The cover features a striking black and white image of a man with a beard and long hair, looking upwards, accompanied by the headline "UFO-Sichtungen in aller Welt" (UFO Sightings Around the World).

Detailed Accounts of Sightings and Encounters

The issue begins with a detailed account of a close encounter experienced by a witness named Dewilde, who describes interaction with non-human beings. The narrative recounts the beings taking a chicken, their physical appearance, and their departure in a craft. The report notes the replacement of railway sleepers at the landing site, suggesting physical evidence. The text also mentions the unfortunate demise of Dewilde's spaniel, which had previously barked aggressively at the beings, drawing a parallel to a similar incident involving Mme. Laboeuf's dog.

Subsequent sections present a series of 'Weltrundschau' (World Review) reports detailing numerous sightings from various countries:

• New Zealand: Reports include a strange flying object following brothers Walter and Brian Hawkins for 100 km, described as a large street lamp. Another sighting involved a cross-shaped object hovering over Stratford. Two businessmen witnessed a bright light and a rectangular object with a balloon-like base.
• Chile: An oval UFO with a blue-green tail was observed exhibiting erratic flight and rapid location changes.
• Atlantic Ocean: Captains of two ships reported a bright UFO surrounded by a light circle moving rapidly eastward.
• United Kingdom: Sightings include a bright red object in erratic flight near Cardiff, a rotating 'flying saucer' in New Ferry, and a blue-white falling fireball in Scotland.
• Australia: The postmaster in Overland Corner reported a bright light with a red tail.
• USA: Numerous sightings are documented, including a large, round object glowing with white and red light observed by police officers in Fontana. In Santa Cruz, a pulsating UFO was seen. A witness in Oakdale described a saucer-shaped, orange object that illuminated the surroundings. A 77-year-old physiotherapist reported a bright golden object. Reports from Africa detail a large glowing object, a zigzagging fireball, and a fiery flying object. A restaurant owner in Michigan photographed a disc-shaped object. In Idaho, a large, oval disc with landing pods was observed. A flight instructor in Iowa reported three elliptical objects. Other sightings include tubular objects in Alaska and a glowing object near the moon in Texas.

Specific Incident Details:

• New Zealand (Oct 31, 1959): The Hawkins brothers' encounter with a 'street lamp' object.
• Puerto Montt, Chile (Nov 2, 1959): An oval UFO with erratic flight.
• New Zealand (Nov 3, 1959): A rectangular object with a balloon-like base.
• Atlantic Ocean (Nov 4, 1959): A bright UFO sighted by two ship captains.
• Cardiff (Nov 19, 1959): A bright red object in erratic flight.
• New Ferry (Nov 24, 1959): A rotating 'saucer'.
• Contin, Scotland (Nov 28, 1959): A blue-white falling fireball.
• Overland Corner, Australia (Nov 30, 1959): A bright light with a red tail.
• Fontana, California (Dec 1, 1959): A large, round object with powerful lights.
• Santa Cruz, California (Dec 1, 1959): A pulsating UFO.
• Djihonti and Aseylu (Dec 2, 1959): An object with a long, glittering tail, accompanied by explosions.
• Banbury (Dec 7, 1959): A pear-shaped, bright light with a misty trail.
• Invercargill, New Zealand (Dec 8, 1959): An object larger than a DC 3, shaped like an inverted soup plate.
• El Paso, Texas (Dec 13, 1959): A star-like, glowing object near the moon.
• Laverton, Australia (Dec 14, 1959): A yellow ball-like object with a greenish fin.
• Croix-du-Mazet Pass (Dec 17, 1959): Two fireballs that merged into one.
• Oakdale, California (Dec 22, 1959): A saucer-shaped, orange object.
• Cheltenham (Dec 27, 1959): A bright golden object.
• Africa (Jan 5, 1960): Multiple sightings including a large glowing object, a fireball, and a fiery flying object.
• Jackson, Michigan (Jan 6, 1960): A 'saucer' shaped like an inverted cone.
• Lakota, North Dakota (Jan 18, 1960): A crescent-shaped object with a flaming emission.
• Coral Gables, Florida (Jan 19, 1960): Two silver discs moving rapidly.
• Canada (Jan 16-Feb 7, 1960): A series of strange fireballs and a red ball observed for several minutes.
• New Hampshire (Feb 3, 1960): Three to five objects flying in formation, some pulsating.
• Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Utah (Feb 7-8, 1960): Reports of a 'blue flash' and a blinding light.
• Hollywood (Feb 1960): A red ball observed stationary between stars.
• Pembrey, Wales (Feb 8, 1960): A disc observed at high altitude, rotating and changing color.
• Castlemartin, Wales (Feb 1960): A large, glowing flying apparatus with a shrill hum.
• Ammanford, Wales (Feb 1960): A large grey object.
• Blanavon, Wales (Feb 1960): A large golden object with a tail.
• Alaska (Feb 14, 1960): Tubular objects confirmed by North American Air Defense.
• Sarnia, Quebec, Canada (Feb 22, 1960): Reports of a series of white 'saucers' making strong noise.
• Grand Blanc, Michigan (March 1960): A disc-shaped object with a green tail photographed.
• Meridian, Idaho (March 3, 1960): A large oval disc with three landing pods.
• Dubuque, Iowa (March 4, 1960): Three elliptical objects observed.
• Nome, Alaska (March 6, 1960): Unknown flying objects sighted.
• Bern, Switzerland (April 12, 1960): A glowing, arrow-shaped object moving at high speed.

Two Contact Cases

The issue also delves into specific 'contact cases'. One report details a sighting in Papualand where a bright disc was seen, with witnesses reporting luminous beings on board an unknown craft. The credibility of these reports is supported by individuals like Pater Gill and Pater John D. Bodger. Another section presents two cases described by Dr. José Escobar Faria:

• Santa Fe, Argentina (May 28, 1958): A driver encountered a tall, luminous being with a body covered in self-luminous plates. The being communicated and the driver experienced a sensation of being swept away by light, leading to unconsciousness.
• Synders Lake, New York (Oct 12, 1958): A witness observed a half-round object that transformed color. Three tall men in golden robes emerged, speaking perfect English and inquiring about Earth. The encounter lasted three hours.

Towards the Coming World Turning

A final section, "Zur kommenden Weltwende" (Towards the Coming World Turning), discusses spiritual and philosophical themes. It references Swami Ramanand Saraswati and Prof. Louis Emrich, who spoke of an expected upheaval. The text emphasizes the unity of all existence, the divine self within humans, and the concept of humanity as a single family. It suggests that the core message of all world religions is the same and aims to guide individuals in realizing their own religion.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the prevalence and diversity of UFO sightings across the globe, the potential for direct encounters with non-human intelligence, and the search for meaning and understanding behind these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, presenting evidence and witness accounts without definitive conclusions, while also exploring philosophical and spiritual interpretations of these events. The magazine seems to advocate for a broader understanding of reality that may extend beyond conventional scientific paradigms.

This issue of 'Rätselhafte Lebewesen' (Mysterious Creatures) from March 1960 focuses on historical accounts of unexplained phenomena, particularly the legendary 'Kappa' creatures of Japan and a wide array of UFO sightings reported across the globe from the mid-19th century onwards. The magazine presents a detailed compilation of these events, drawing from various historical records, scientific journals, and eyewitness testimonies.

Kappa: Mysterious Creatures in Japan

The lead article, "Rätselhafte Lebewesen in Japan seit über tausend Jahren bekannt" (Mysterious Creatures in Japan Known for Over a Thousand Years), features an illustration of a 'Kappa' creature, described as a humanoid being that inhabited rivers and swamps in Japan between 700 and 850 AD. These beings are depicted with webbed hands, a beak-like nose, large, movable ears, and triangular eyes. Notably, they wore a round disc on their heads with four needle-like protrusions and had a 'shell-like' appendage on their backs connected by a 'twisted string' to their mouths. The article references a Japanese scholar, Prof. Komatsu Kitamura, who suggests these 'Kappa' might be visitors from another star, drawing parallels to modern frogmen and the depiction of an "air mask with a connecting hose to the air tank on the back." The Kappa are said to have lived in large shells that could float on water, fly, and move at high speeds. The article links these legends to modern 'flying saucers,' suggesting a continuity of unexplained aerial phenomena.

Historical UFO Sightings (1845-1896)

The magazine then presents a chronological catalog of reported UFO sightings, spanning from 1845 to 1896. These accounts detail various aerial phenomena observed across different continents:

• 1845: Three bright, luminous spheres, larger than the moon's apparent diameter, were seen performing unusual flight maneuvers near a British ship, connected by a light streak.
• October 26, 1846: A luminous disc appeared over Lowell, Massachusetts, subsequently emitting a nauseating mass.
• May 22, 1852: Luminous spheres were observed over Swabia and Bavaria.
• August 11, 1855: A large, self-luminous disc, resembling a giant wheel with luminous spokes, hovered over Sussex, England.
• October 8, 1857: A luminous phenomenon preceded an earthquake in Illinois, described by some as a meteor and by others as strong lightning.
• Spring 1800: Dutch meteorologist Ch. H. D. Buys Ballot observed large swarms of flying black discs.
• March 22, 1870: A curious, rigid 'cloud' with sharp outlines appeared, suddenly changed direction, and disappeared at high speed.
• August 1, 1871: The director of the Marseille observatory observed a 'meteor' that performed complex maneuvers, including hovering and dropping glowing drops.
• July 3, 1882: Two bright triangles appeared on the moon's upper edge, followed by two dark ones on the lower edge, which approached and vanished upon meeting.
• October 14, 1882: Six UFOs and a spindle-shaped object were reported in front of a large comet by Professor Barnard.
• November 17, 1882: Astronomer E. Walter Maunder described a 'strange celestial visitor' seen by thousands of Englishmen, a large, round disc of greenish luminous material that flew steadily from horizon to horizon.
• March 23, 1877: Dazzling fireballs appeared behind a cloud and glided slowly over Fence, France, visible for over an hour.
• May 15, 1879: A 'magnificent wheel' with luminous spokes was observed on the Persian Gulf, pulsating and moving rapidly on the sea's surface and underwater.
• July 28, 1880: An unknown object was seen flying up and down in various directions over St. Louis and Louisville, USA.
• July 30, 1880: A large, round, luminous ship and two smaller ones maneuvered skillfully along a gorge in St. Petersburg, Russia.
• June 1873: Astronomer Galle observed an 'explosion' on Mars, followed by a streak of light from the planet.
• May 4, 1881: A luminous object was observed in the Eudoxus crater on the Moon.
• June 11, 1881: The sons of the Prince of Wales witnessed a 'brightly lit phantom ship' between Melbourne and Sydney.
• September 27, 1881: A fast-moving object was observed near the Moon.
• Late October 1881: 'Scientific American' reported 'spiderweb'-like material falling from the sky in Milwaukee and Wisconsin.
• December 13, 1881: Luminous objects were seen moving in various directions near Cherbourg, France.
• December 16, 1881: Three guards in Laredo, Spain, pursued an object resembling a balloon, which emitted sparks and disappeared.
• April 4, 1892: A large black disc was seen passing in front of the moon.
• May 25, 1893: Round lights were observed for two hours on the eastern Chinese Sea.
• April 25, 1896: Numerous residents of Red Bluff, California, reported seeing an airship, initially mistaken for a bright star, moving rapidly southwest.
• November 22, 1896: A 'flying cigar' crossed Oakland, California, emitting a bright light.
• November 1896: Hundreds of people in Sacramento, California, observed a hovering object, described as a large white light, definitively identified as an airship.

Theoretical Considerations and Public Opinion

The issue also touches upon broader theoretical discussions. M. Agrest, a Russian candidate of physics and mathematics, suggests that Earth may have been visited by space beings long ago, proposing the massive stone terraces of Baalbek as a potential launchpad. He also theorizes that mysterious 'Tektites' found globally might be remnants of experimental rockets used by these space visitors. Furthermore, the magazine includes findings from an Allensbacher Institut für Demoskopie survey conducted in Germany, revealing that 34% of respondents believe in extraterrestrial intelligence, 36% do not, and 30% are undecided. The survey also noted a higher belief rate among younger individuals (51% for those under 45) compared to older ones (27% for those over 60).

Recent UFO Research and Publications

The issue highlights recent developments in UFO research, including a letter from the UFO group APRO to the Pentagon regarding an analyzed metallic object of presumed extraterrestrial origin. It also mentions the release of Captain Edward J. Ruppelt's book, "The UFO Reports," and an upcoming book by Major Donald E. Keyhoe, "Flying Saucers, Top Secret," which promises to expose the NICAP's fight against official censorship regarding UFO facts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the historical prevalence of unexplained aerial phenomena and mysterious beings, the potential for extraterrestrial visitation throughout history, and the ongoing efforts to investigate and publicize UFO-related information. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting historical accounts and contemporary research without outright dismissal, encouraging readers to consider the possibility of phenomena beyond conventional understanding. The inclusion of ancient legends like the Kappa alongside modern UFO reports suggests a belief in a continuous thread of anomalous events throughout human history.

This issue of Bunte Deutsche Illustrierte, dated March 15, 1960, focuses heavily on the burgeoning topic of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs), exploring sightings, alleged extraterrestrial contacts, and the skepticism surrounding them. The cover headline, "The signs are increasing: Mysterious flying objects shoot across the sky like 'flying saucers' or glowing fireballs," sets the tone for the issue's deep dive into the phenomenon.

Political and Economic Observations

The issue begins with a brief, critical commentary on the economic disparities in certain Middle Eastern countries, noting low per capita incomes in Turkey, Lebanon, Egypt, Syria, Persia, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. It highlights the stark contrast between these figures and the harsh punishments for minor offenses, suggesting a potential link to the appeal of communism among these populations. A quote from Rich. Ferver is included, though its direct connection to the preceding text is unclear.

Humor and Skepticism Regarding UFOs

A humorous anecdote titled "Humor about Flying Saucers" is presented, featuring a brief exchange about seeing a flying saucer, dated October 14, 1954, in Lausanne.

Critiques of UFO Contactees

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to scrutinizing individuals claiming contact with extraterrestrials. Dr. Faria is cited as labeling Dino Kraspeden and Antonio Rossi as "opportunists." The article mentions Salvador Villanueva, a Mexican taxi driver and friend of Acarroski, who allegedly wrote a book titled "My Flight to Venus" after a contact experience. Dr. Faria is quoted as advising contactees to "Fly wherever you want, but don't write it in books." The article also criticizes Adamski and Reinhold Schmidt for their new contact stories, and Howard Menger, who is selling "Space Melodies" on records. Faria is quoted again, suggesting that the "economic desires of the alleged contactees have made the entire UFO field appear ridiculous." He posits that the truth lies somewhere between complete official denial and close friendship with space beings, but it will remain unknown if extremes continue to dominate.

The UFO Phenomenon: Evidence and Questions

The magazine poses critical questions about UFOs: Are they truly spacecraft from alien planets, or secret weapons being tested? It states that the existence of UFOs is no longer in doubt, but their origin remains unexplained. The article "UFO over Styria" (see cover) details an experience of a witness who saw a UFO on March 7th. The witness, Schedelbauer, underwent rigorous investigation by the magazine's staff, who found no signs of trickery in the photograph. He reported feeling heat and experiencing reddish spots on his face and hands for three days. The photograph itself is described as possibly showing light effects rather than a clear depiction of a craft, with its true shape and size being difficult to ascertain.

Scientific Theories and Research

The issue delves into scientific aspects, including a section on antigravity. It references a 1750 theory by Geneva scholar Le Sage, proposing that gravity is not an attraction but a "radiation pressure of the universe." The article mentions German engineer Dr. Walter Lewetzou, who researched antigravity possibilities in the 1920s and 1930s, and his associate Horst Pinkell, who reportedly submitted a memorandum to the Supreme Soviet in Russia in 1943.

Skepticism and the Demand for Proof

Friedrich Baumgartner, writing from Tiengen/Oberrh., contributes an article titled "Bring better proof!". He argues that while the number of reliably reported and critically examined UFO observations is large, claims of landings and contacts with UFO occupants are less substantiated. He stresses that UFO research must adhere to scientific methods, requiring reliable testimony and tangible proof. Baumgartner dismisses many UFO landing and contact stories as sensationalized or fabricated, suggesting that a single, verifiable case would resolve much of the debate about extraterrestrial spacecraft.

He also addresses claims about Russian UFO technology, citing an article by Karl-Heinz Wichodil in the illustrated weekly "abz" that alleged Russia possessed over 260 operational disc-shaped aircraft by 1918. The magazine expresses doubt about this claim, questioning why Russia would use expensive fuel for rockets if it had such advanced craft. It is revealed that the "abz" article was later deemed a hoax, and the author was convicted for irregularities.

Philosophical and Spiritual Reflections

Quotes from various figures are interspersed, including Lord Welby (1914) on a "gang of swindlers" in power, Asa Oscar Tait on politicians' tendency to steal, and Sir Oliver Lodge (Autumn 1959) on the scientific inquiry into the afterlife and clairvoyance. Sir Richard Gregory (1924) is quoted on the potential for humanity's disappearance if its powers are misused, advocating for non-violence.

UFO Literature Review

A substantial section is dedicated to a review of UFO literature available in German. It lists recommended books and publications, including works by Donald E. Keyhoe, Dr. Wilhelm Martin, and Edgar Sievers, along with various issues of "Weltraumbote" and "UFO-Nachrichten." Contact information for distributors and publishers is provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the increasing prevalence of UFO sightings, the critical examination of contactee claims, the scientific pursuit of understanding phenomena like antigravity, and a strong emphasis on the need for credible evidence in UFO research. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious inquiry, acknowledging the existence of UFOs while maintaining a skeptical approach towards unsubstantiated reports and sensationalism. There's a clear call for more rigorous, scientific investigation and a dismissal of claims that lack verifiable proof. The magazine seems to position itself as a source of information that balances the extraordinary claims with a grounded, evidence-based perspective, while also touching upon broader societal issues like political integrity and the future of humanity.