ACOS Bulletin - Number 10

Magazine Overview

This issue of the A.C.O.S. BULLETIN, Number Ten, dated June 1977, is published by the Australian Co-ordination Section, Centre for UFO Studies, based in Gosford, NSW, Australia. The cover features a graphic resembling radar waves and an electrocardiogram, alongside the journal's name and a definition of a UFO. The issue includes a detailed index of articles and editorials.

Editorials

The first editorial, by H. Griesberg & D. Seargent, discusses the fluctuating interest in UFOs over the past 20 years and the potential for a new wave of interest. They caution against sensationalism and questionable reporting by newspapers, citing examples of hoaxes and unsubstantiated claims. They also mention a UFO organization not affiliated with ACOS making bold statements about the number of reports and their investigation.

The second editorial, by Dr. J. Allen Hynek, addresses the common occurrence of Identified Flying Objects (IFOs) being mistaken for UFOs due to public unfamiliarity with natural phenomena. He stresses the importance of experienced investigators distinguishing between IFOs and genuinely puzzling cases. Hynek also references a survey by Dr. Sturrock of Stanford University, which revealed that many astronomers privately believe the UFO problem is worthy of scientific study but are unwilling to express this publicly due to a 'committee complex,' fearing damage to their professional image.

Articles and Features

Sunspots and UFO Sightings

By D. Seargent, this article re-examines a previous paper arguing for a correlation between UFO reports and sunspot numbers. Seargent's own analysis of 1968 UFO reports, using graphs of sunspot maximums and minimums, suggests no real correlation. He found that predicted meteor shower maxima showed a stronger correlation with solar activity than UFO reports. Seargent concludes that the apparent correlation is likely coincidental, as days of solar activity are frequent, making it probable for any event, including UFO sightings, to occur on such a day.

A Possible Time Pattern for Certain Close Encounters

Authored by K. Basterfield & D. Seargent, this article categorizes close encounters into 'accidental' (phenomenon discontinues encounter) and 'deliberate' (phenomenon initiates). They analyze the timing of these events, finding that 'accidental' and 'deliberate' (awake) encounters occur throughout the 24-hour period. However, 'deliberate' encounters where the reporter was asleep ('Type C') show a clustering between 0130 and 0430 hours. The article presents a table of Australian cases, noting that Type C encounters often involve entity reports and single female witnesses.

Is Zeta Reticuli the Home of an Alien Civilization?

This article delves into the debate surrounding the star map allegedly seen by Betty Hill during her abduction. It discusses the work of Marjorie Fish, who constructed a three-dimensional model of likely stars within 50 light years of the Sun, suggesting Zeta Reticuli as a potential origin for UFOs. The article explores the criteria for stars supporting life and the limited number of suitable candidates. It also addresses criticisms from Carl Sagan, Steven Soter, and Robert Scheaffer, who argue that the interpretation of the map involves statistical fallacies and 'reading into' the data rather than objective analysis. The article concludes that the Zeta Reticuli incident, while intriguing, falls short of providing definitive information about the nature and origin of UFOs.

A Matter of Fact

By K. Basterfield, this section reviews close encounters involving vehicles. Basterfield highlights the importance of gathering detailed facts to rule out conventional explanations for vehicle malfunctions, such as headlights going off or engines dying. He provides a table (Table A) comparing five cases where reporters' vehicles stopped, detailing the location, date, witness, conditions, and specific vehicle reactions, aiming to establish a pattern for such incidents.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the challenge of distinguishing genuine UFOs from IFOs and hoaxes, and the statistical analysis of sighting patterns. The ACOS organization appears to advocate for a rigorous, evidence-based approach to UFO research, cautioning against sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims. There is a clear emphasis on the need for careful data collection and analysis, as demonstrated in the articles on sunspots, encounter timing, and vehicle interference. The issue also reflects an ongoing debate within the ufology community regarding the interpretation of evidence, particularly concerning the Zeta Reticuli case, and the challenges faced by scientists studying controversial subjects.

This issue of UFO & Paranormal Magazine, specifically issue 19, focuses on "THE CE EXPERIENCE IN AUSTRALIA -the first accounts" by Bill Chalker B.Sc. Honors. It also includes a parable on scientific theory from Professor Joyont Vishnu Norlikar.

Table B: Witness Reports

Table B presents two witness reports from Yatala Vale Rd, SA, and Kalyan SA, detailing observations of approaching objects, vehicle behavior, and atmospheric effects. The Yatala Vale Rd report from Friday, April 22, 1977, at 23:45 local time, describes an object approaching, headlights on and off, engine stopping, and a passing over the car. The Kalyan SA report from Wednesday, May 2, 1973, at 19:30, also describes an object approaching, with the engine stopping and the object braking slightly.

A Parable

Introduced as an excerpt from Chapter Seven of "The Structure of the Universe" by Professor Joyont Vishnu Norlikar, this parable contrasts two clocks to explain the essence of a good scientific theory. The Guru asks a disciple to choose between a permanently stopped clock that is correct twice a day and a clock that gains a few minutes daily and needs readjustment. The disciple initially chooses the stopped clock but is guided to understand that the clock needing readjustment is preferable because it offers approximate but useful information. The Guru concludes that a good scientific theory must make predictions that can be tested by observations, even if imperfect, unlike a theory with no predictive power.

Investigations into Entity Reports within Australasia: A Status Report

Authored by K. Basterfield, this report details the progress of the Australian Entity Study Group (AESG). The group has collected 73 cases, including ERA, ERB, ERC, and ERD types, and has published summaries in several publications. The AESG is now using an ER classification system and is seeking research ideas to analyze the gathered information, with a focus on the psychological aspects of close encounters.

A Suggestion for a More Objective Look at "Reports"

Also by K. Basterfield, this section proposes a method for evaluating the reliability and 'goodness' of UFO reports. It builds upon Allen Hynek's 'strangeness-probability' (SP) system by introducing a multi-factor assessment. This includes evaluating the origin of the account, how it was obtained, and the extent of its investigation. Additionally, it assesses the witness's credibility and the investigator's opinion on the cause. The author suggests assigning numerical weights to these factors to derive a combined score, aiming for a more objective analysis.

Examples are provided, such as the Kimba, Fiji, Clare, Salisbury, and Ivy Tanks cases, to illustrate how this system could be applied. The goal is to provide a visual clue to the usefulness of a case and encourage more objective research into the UFO phenomenon.

The CE Experience in Australia - The First Accounts

Written by Bill Chalker B.Sc. Honors, this extensive article traces the history of Close Encounter (CE) experiences and entity reports in Australia and New Zealand. It begins by referencing the publication of "An Australian Catalogue of Close Encounter type 3 Reports" in September 1976, which documented 36 cases. The author notes the necessity of rigorously applying the definition of "occupancy" to categorize these events.

The article explores various historical accounts:

• 1868 Parramatto, NSW: An alleged encounter with a "spirit" and an invitation to enter an "ark."
• Aboriginal Myths: The "Wandjina" as "sky-beings" and "spirits in the cloud."
• Initiation Rites: Parallels between tribal death and rebirth rituals and modern contactee/abduction accounts.
• 19th Century Accounts: The "Hargreaves Hairy Man" and the "Yowie" phenomenon.
• 1899 Bendigo: The "Springheel Jack" incident.
• 1909 New Zealand: A wave of "antipodian UFO occupants" reports, including aerial craft and figures.
• 1909-1910 Australia: Reports of "airship" operators and cigar-shaped objects.
• 1940s: Events at Wearyan River (men in white gowns), and a nurse's encounter with an "upturned saucer" and "little fellas" in New Zealand.
• 1948 Tasmania: Two women sighting a bright round object with "little green men" on its side.
• 1954 Victoria: An extensive UFO flap.
• 1955 Queensland: The W.C. Hall story of six flying saucers landing and entities emerging, with a dubious photograph.
• 1951 Unmatjera Tribe Report: Mentioned as appearing in Frank Edwards' book, but lacking documentation in Sydney papers.
• 1954 Harold T. Wilkins Rumor: A discussion overheard by a U.S. Marine about an unknown origin landing field in an Australian desert.
• 1954 East Malvern: Witnesses seeing "human-shaped shadows" inside an overhead object.
• Stuart Affair (Hamilton, New Zealand): A complex case involving sightings, harassment, an entity report, and alleged "men-in-black" activity.
• 1955 Eucla: Three young men encountering a "frog-like" entity after finding "jagged pieces of shining metal."
• 1957 Nawaca Island, Fiji: Fijians dazed by a "figure of a man" on an aerial object.
• 1959 Kim Marks Property: A sighting of a man with a crimson face, followed by a large object with lights on the ground.
• 1959 Boinai Mission, Papua: Witnesses seeing "men" on an aerial object and experiencing "communication."
• 1959 Blenheim Report: Mrs. F. Moreland's sighting of a saucer-shaped glow with two men inside.

The article emphasizes the importance of clarifying events from before the 1960s, noting that while the 1950s and preceding decades are less documented, significant cases did occur. It concludes by listing references and encouraging support for the Australian Entity Study Group.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO and paranormal phenomena, with a particular emphasis on historical accounts and investigations within Australia and New Zealand. There is a strong interest in categorizing and evaluating the reliability of these reports, as evidenced by the proposed classification systems and analytical methods. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous research and objective analysis of evidence, encouraging further investigation into unexplained events. Themes of entity encounters, historical anomalies, and the scientific study of the unexplained are prominent throughout the issue.

This issue of the ACOS Bulletin, identified as issue number 20, focuses on 'A PERSPECTIVE OF CE2 ACCOUNTS' and UFO trace cases in Australia, as detailed by Bill Chalker. The publication appears to be a newsletter or magazine dedicated to UFO research, with a strong emphasis on investigative reporting and case studies.

CE2 Accounts in Australia

Orange, NSW Landing (May 26, 1977)

A research team led by Bill Chalker conducted a detailed investigation of a UFO landing near Orange, NSW. The case is noted for its multi-faceted nature, including animal reactions, two independent witnesses, an accompanying auditory phenomenon, and unusual ground trace marks. These marks are undergoing analysis using thermo-luminescence. A full report is expected in the following ACOS issue and the UFO newsletter of UFO Research (NSW).

Casino, NSW Sighting (May 12, 1969)

Mr. and Mrs. R.E. Hinitt reported a bright glow in their backyard, which they identified as a stationary, luminous, circular object approximately 4 to 5 feet in diameter. The object was observed from their verandah, about 7 feet above ground level. Mr. Hinitt investigated, approaching within 12 to 16 feet of the object. He noted no sound except the heavy rain. The object was described as possibly gaseous, with pulsating streaks or shadows within the glow. It disappeared within minutes, with the observation lasting 10 to 15 minutes. A faint luminous patch was noted at the spot later that night. The CUFOS Trace Catalogue (1975) incorrectly stated burnt patches were found.

Emerald Beach, NSW Sighting (June 1970)

A truck driver observed a bright cigar-shaped object rising above trees near Emerald Beach. The object hovered and descended into a clearing, followed by a bright V-shaped column of light. The driver watched from a high vantage point for about 10 minutes before fleeing. In 1973, an investigation of the site revealed six circles of stunted grass and fern growth, two about 30 feet in diameter, and others smaller. One 30-foot circle had charred limbs, and the area contained burnt and dead trees. The site showed no real deterioration over time and did not exhibit characteristics of 'fairy rings'.

South Johnstone, Qld. Incident (November 5, 1971)

Two locomotive men reported jumbled and incoherent voices over the radio, followed by a dazzling and powerful light in an area where burnt cane was found. They were found stupefied, with one man pointing to the sky, and were taken to a hospital.

Northern Queensland Sighting (March 22, 1975)

A party of two young men and three girls observed a strange light and a loud bang from an object in a gravel storage area. The object appeared to be a row of flashing lights attached to a large 'box-like' mass with a circular mass above, featuring concentric rings of lights and a black disc. Unusual indentations were confirmed on the ground the following day by a Nebo police officer and an investigator from Townsville Air Force Base.

Other Reports from Around Australia

This section details several other UFO reports filed with UFO Research Inc. (SA) and TUFOIC:

• SA77040 (April 2, 1977): Mr. Jeff Dix saw a light with a bluish haze over the Adelaide Hills that changed color (blue to red, yellow, red, then blue) and remained stationary.
• SA77043 (April 7, 1977): Mr. Arthur VanDyke observed a dull red, round-headed object with a tail, stationary in the sky for about 10 minutes.
• TA77024 (March 28, 1977): A teenager saw a round ball-like light that moved erratically, changing colors and emitting a whistling sound.
• TA77033 (February 1977): A witness saw a plane-like object with a white beam descend, described as aluminum with ribbing, leaving a scorched circular area on the ground.
• TA77034 (March 28, 1977): Mrs. Carr saw a full moon-shaped light that darted north and then returned, enveloping her in an orange/apricot glow.

Commentary on Multiple Witnesses

Allan Hendry, Managing Editor of I.U.R., discusses an incident in California (March 22, 1977) involving two lights moving east, which was suggested to be a meteor splitting up. He notes the intriguing aspect that despite the early hour (0330), it generated UFO reports from various official sources, highlighting the potential for misidentification and the importance of witness credibility.

News from the Center for UFO Studies

University Course in Ufology

Dr. Burt L. Monroe Jr. of the University of Louisville conducted a successful course in Ufology from January to April, covering topics from introduction to UFOs, historical aspects, physical effects, physical traces, exobiology, astronomy, movies, contactees, abductions, paranormal aspects, and ancient legends. A credit UFO course is planned for the next year. A lady involved in a Kentucky abduction case spoke to the class.

International UFO Congress (June 24-26, 1977)

FATE magazine co-sponsored a UFO congress in Chicago, featuring lectures by prominent figures such as Prof. James Harder, Dr. Berthold Schwarz, Frank Salisbury, Ted Bloecher, David M. Jacobs, Kenneth Arnold, Stanton Friedman, J. & C. Lorenzen, Curtis Fuller, Ted Phillips, David Stupple, Raymond Palmer, Bill Pitts, Dr. J. Vallee, Jerome Clark, and Betty Hill. Dr. J. Allen Hynek was the principal speaker at a banquet.

News from Around Australia

New A.C.O.S. Member Organisation

A new organization, UFO Research-Far North Queensland (UFOR-FNQ), has been formed by Mrs. Di Van Wijk in Cairns, Queensland. Garry Little and Bill Stapleton are continuing as independent investigators in Victoria.

"Stone-age" UFOs?

Reports of 'flying saucer' type stones unearthed in South Australia were later clarified as rocks in unusual formation, not fossilized UFOs.

UFOCON 2 Tapes

Copies of tapes from the UFOCON TWO conference are available from Mr. Lad Godic.

UFOCON THREE

Preparations are underway for the 3rd annual conference in Surfer's Paradise, Queensland, on November 12-14.

ACOS Bulletin Subscriptions

Reminders for members to subscribe to the ACOS Bulletin ($3 Aust / $4 overseas per year).

Next Issue

The next issue will feature an article by an anonymous author questioning the value of studying UFO phenomena, and an updated list of documents from the Center for UFO Studies.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed investigation of UFO landing cases (CE2 accounts) with a focus on physical evidence and witness testimony, the reporting of UFO sightings across Australia, and the dissemination of information within the UFO research community through newsletters, conferences, and organizational updates. The editorial stance, as indicated by the inclusion of diverse reports and the commitment to presenting different viewpoints (even those they disagree with, as noted for the 'Next Issue'), appears to be one of thorough documentation and open discussion within the field of ufology.