ACOS Bulletin - Number 16

Magazine Overview

This issue of the A.C.O.S. BULLETIN, Number Sixteen, dated December 1978, is the journal of the Australian Co-ordination Section, Centre for UFO Studies. It is registered as a Publication Category B. The cover features the title in bold block letters, along with the issue number and date. A graphic depicting concentric circles with radiating lines and a waveform is also present. The definition of a UFO, as provided by Dr. J. Allen Hynek, is prominently displayed on the first page.

Editorial

The editorial, co-authored by H. Griesberg and D. Seargent, notes that the Bulletin has "started to suffer from obesity" due to an influx of high-quality articles from UFO investigators and researchers. They encourage contributors to continue submitting their work, expressing a desire to potentially move to a bi-monthly publication schedule. The editorial emphasizes the Bulletin's unique role in Australian UFO publications, aiming to present researched conclusions and scientific speculation without getting lost in excessive speculation. They also extend holiday wishes to their readers.

A separate editorial by Dr. J. Allen Hynek discusses the common phrase "at tree-top level" used in UFO reports. He cautions against interpreting such statements literally, as they can lead to confusion. He uses the example of the moon appearing at "tree-top level" when near the horizon, despite being 240,000 miles away, to illustrate how perspective can be misleading. He stresses the importance of not imposing one's own interpretation on a witness's statement.

Articles and Features

Valentich - The Facts to Date

This article by H. Griesberg details the disappearance of Pilot Frederick Valentich on Saturday, October 21st, 1978. Valentich took off from Moorabbin airport in a single-engined Cessna 182, intending to fly to King Island to pick up crayfish and log night flying hours. After passing Cape Otway lighthouse, he contacted Melbourne Flight Control, reporting a large aircraft below 5,000 feet with four bright lights. He described it as "not an aircraft" and stated it was "orbiting on top of me" with a "green light and sort of metallic light on the outside." The object then vanished, followed by Valentich reporting engine trouble and an "unknown aircraft now hovering on top of me." Contact was lost after a "long metallic noise."

The article then lists thirteen points that stand out in the case, regardless of the explanation. These include: Valentich having sufficient fuel for a much longer flight, the lighthouse keeper not hearing any aircraft, no return flight being logged, fishermen reporting nothing unusual, the timing of his departure making a return before 9:00 p.m. impossible, his failure to request runway lights for King Island, the lack of anyone arranged to sell him crayfish, the unusual circumstances of the "metallic crash noise" transmission, an unconfirmed report of a light plane landing near Cape Otway, his chief flying instructor's statement about his instrument rating and flying proficiency, his extensive flying hours, the presence of life-jackets and a modular aircraft design, and the fact that no parts of the plane were ever found. The article also notes the Federal Parliament's inquiry, where the Minister for Transport, Mr. Nixon, stated that the disappearance remained a mystery.

Some thoughts on the Valentich Case

K. Basterfield provides further analysis of the Valentich case. He details the weather conditions, Valentich's background as a 20-year-old pilot with RAAF training, his positive demeanor, and his belief in UFOs. The article recounts the search efforts, including RAAF Orion aircraft, boats, and other planes, which found an oil slick but no wreckage. The search was scaled down and eventually called off. Basterfield then presents "Some specific points" regarding the incident, including aviation sources stating it would be impossible to fly a Cessna 182 inverted for long, the noise heard being typical of a plane landing on water, the aircraft not appearing on radar when it should have been, and senior controllers doubting the pilot's reported position. It was also revealed that only a one-way flight plan was filed, despite his declared intention to return.

The "Discussion" section explores four main hypotheses: abduction by a UFO, a crash after disorientation (with the UFO being a lighthouse), the pilot deliberately taking the plane elsewhere, or the pilot deliberately crashing the plane and fabricating the UFO observation. The author argues against the UFO abduction and disorientation hypotheses. While acknowledging the possibility of a hoax to cover a deliberate disappearance, the author finds it unlikely due to the cost of the plane and the difficulty of a clandestine landing. The author concludes that Hypothesis (d), the pilot deliberately crashing the aircraft, is the most plausible, supported by the plane not appearing on radar, the failed search for wreckage, the one-way flight plan, and the "open mike" transmission with metallic noise, which could indicate the pilot held the button down intentionally.

Are there too many UFOs?

John Prytz addresses the growing number of UFO reports and its implications for the extraterrestrial (ET) theory. He cites Dr. J. Allen Hynek, who noted an "embarrassment of riches" with approximately 100 sightings reported nightly, totaling around 36,500 annually. Hynek argues that this sheer volume makes the ET spaceship theory improbable due to the immense distances involved. Prytz agrees with Hynek's sentiment, suggesting that the objection is based on a flawed assumption that each report signifies a unique alien spaceship making a long journey. He proposes that a small fleet of extrasolar spacecraft could account for the numerous sightings, drawing an analogy to how a single car can be sighted many times in a city. Prytz suggests that a single UFO could generate thousands of sightings over its "tour of duty" without immediate return travel. He also posits that these UFOs might not be interplanetary but extra-solar, and that a "scientific expedition" model, similar to Charles Darwin's voyage on HMS Beagle, could explain how a small fleet could operate within our solar system. He assumes that Earth, with its intelligence and abundant life, would be the primary focus of such an expedition.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed investigation of specific UFO cases, particularly the Frederick Valentich disappearance, and the critical analysis of UFO theories. The editorial stance is one of rigorous investigation, scientific speculation, and a cautious approach to extraordinary claims, emphasizing evidence-based reasoning over pure speculation. The Bulletin aims to be a platform for serious researchers, encouraging detailed reporting and analysis of UFO phenomena while maintaining a skeptical yet open-minded perspective.

This issue of The Bulletin, dated March 1978, focuses on the complexities and challenges within the field of ufology. It features articles that explore psychological explanations for UFO phenomena, critique current investigative methods, and discuss the impact of popular culture on UFO reports. The publication appears to be an Australian-based effort, with several articles originating from or referencing Australian research groups and activities.

Article: The 'Embarrassment of Riches' Theory

This section, presented as a numbered point (10), discusses a hypothetical scenario involving an interstellar mothership with 25 landing scout craft. It calculates the potential number of surveillance hours per day and per year, suggesting that even a small fraction of these hours generating a UFO report could lead to a large volume of data without requiring an excessive number of alien spaceships. The author acknowledges this as "sheer guesswork" but argues it is no more so than other theories. The piece emphasizes that this is not an attack on Dr. Hynek but an attempt to keep the ET theory viable, as its plausibility underpins serious scientific work on UFOs.

Article: The Lama, The UFO & The Cosmologist by D. Seargent

In this article, D. Seargent revisits his earlier suggestion that UFOs might be projections of a poltergeistic nature, similar to Tibetan tulpas or apparitions. He admits this has been a weak point due to a lack of direct evidence, but argues that the 'projection theory' has the advantage of accommodating all evidence, unlike other theories. He proposes that this hypothesis must be shown to be possible, sharing this difficulty with the 'nuts and bolts' extraterrestrial hypothesis. Seargent suggests two fields as starting points: psychokinesis (PK) and quantum geometrodynamics. He explains Wheeler's theory that 'empty' space at quantum scales is a place of violent fluctuations, with tiny black holes and wormholes constantly forming and bursting. At these scales, there is no appreciable difference between 'empty' space and 'matter'. He posits that PK might not affect matter directly, but rather influences these quantum fluctuations of space, potentially explaining apparitions and solid UFOs as PK creations from these quantum disturbances.

Seargent further speculates that every thought and unconscious dream might leave a PK trace in space. He draws parallels with psychometry and hauntings, suggesting this could give new meaning to the 'World Mind' concept. He wonders if telepathy involves long-frequency electromagnetic waves, allowing for reception of thoughts from distant times, like Julius Caesar. He also considers that the Earth might act as a 'limb of thoughts,' and that recorded images could be replayed, creating apparitions that conform to current beliefs, potentially explaining similarities between ufonauts and fairies.

Article: 1947 - 1978 ... What Now? by David Reneke

David Reneke reflects on the state of ufology after approximately thirty years since the 'modern era' began. He questions why, despite considerable research, the subject remains in a similar position. Reneke suggests that perhaps thorough investigations were not conducted, or investigators were hampered by a lack of cooperation and secrecy. He criticizes the 'cover-up problem' that still exists, though in a lesser light. He calls for a concentrated effort, with assistance from individuals and groups pooling information, to understand the UFO problem in its true context. Reneke also raises questions about whether ufologists are interpreting data correctly or misconstruing facts, leading to false models. He believes that answers will come with time but urges for actions today to broaden knowledge.

Reneke notes his own entry into the field two years prior and his efforts to consider the problem from multiple sides. He acknowledges the massive scale of the UFO problem but believes it can be addressed through cooperation and data exchange. He finds it heartening to see new research groups forming globally and expanding through contact and information swapping. He questions why older cases persist, suggesting it might be due to increased media exposure and more reporting outlets. He criticizes the tendency for some in ufology to 'sit back and reap the benefits of someone else's work.'

In Australia, Reneke highlights a cohesive and workable program with a country-wide network. He believes Australia is on its way to becoming a world leader in UFO research, provided the system is operated by dedicated individuals. He points to the changing public attitudes, with more people reporting unusual activity, attributing this partly to UFO investigators who research subjects and interview witnesses, thereby gaining repute for the subject. He warns that if ufology succumbs to 'deceit, suspicion, secrecy' like the U.S. Air Force's Blue Book study, those hiding the truth will have achieved victory. He expresses concern about inter-group fighting and court actions that can alienate witnesses and discourage reporting. Reneke concludes by stating that a new era is starting in ufology, with new concepts and ideas being formulated, and a move away from old routines towards new horizons.

Article: Keith Basterfield's Hypnopompic Imagery Theory-A Comment by David Seargent

David Seargent comments on Keith Basterfield's article proposing a psychological explanation for close encounter experiences. Seargent agrees that many peculiar encounters are likely psychological. He cites the Vilvorde humanoid case as an example, suggesting it was an exceptionally vivid dream or a hypnopompic hallucination, noting the witness's lack of fear and immediate return to sleep after the event. Seargent points out that a consistent feature in many cases discussed by Basterfield is the lack of fear or interest from the witness, which he finds typical of dreams or hallucinations but unusual for a real encounter. He argues that the similarity between these psychological reports and other close encounters (including multiple witness cases and abductions) suggests a common underlying phenomenon, questioning if they would be so similar if they were entirely different (psychological vs. physical).

Article: Where Did All The Photoes Go? by H. I. Goriss (UFOR-FNQ)

H. I. Goriss addresses the perceived lack of UFO photographs despite the prevalence of cameras. He attributes this to several factors: people using only one type of film and being ignorant of higher-speed films; people not carrying cameras at all times, especially at night; and most importantly, people not knowing how to use their cameras efficiently. Goriss, drawing from experience in camera retail, states that most 'instamatic' camera users expect perfect results without understanding camera limits or techniques like tracking moving objects. He criticizes the common assumption that a flash unit is always necessary for night photography, citing his own successful night photography of self-illuminated objects without flash. He lists common photographic errors like camera movement, finger obstruction, double exposures, lens flares, and dirty lenses. Goriss concludes that the problem is a lack of education, suggesting that camera retailers are primarily interested in sales, not customer proficiency. He proposes that a solution lies in educating the masses to become proficient photographers, creating a valuable data-gathering force. He ends with a quote from Robert Heinlein: "Never underestimate the power of Human Stupidity."

Article: Deceptive Trends by H.I. Goriss

H.I. Goriss discusses the potential influence of popular science fiction movies like "Star Wars" and "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" on UFO reports. He notes that while these films are often inspired by actual UFO reports, they can, in turn, influence future reports, creating a feedback loop. Goriss suggests this visual and audio deluge might be "contaminating" UFO sightings with elements from popular films. However, he also sees an advantage: increased public interest, leading more people to notice and report strange aerial objects. This has resulted in old reports resurfacing and a generally greater interest in the UFO phenomenon. Goriss stresses that human experiences are affected by preconceived ideas, and viewing sci-fi movies can slant how a witness interprets a UFO incident, consciously or unconsciously. He urges investigators to account for this media influence by asking witnesses if they have seen recent UFO films or programs. He suggests comparing reported UFO details with movie plots to identify similarities. While this means more work for investigators, it leads to more accurate data, as "Art mimics Life, but Life also mimics Art." Goriss warns that with millions of viewers exposed to science fiction, the public's minds are being primed for a new wave of UFO stories, leading to potential 'Unidentified Fraudulent Objects.'

ACOS NEWS: Notice re; Unidentified Phenomena Investigations Bureau (UPIB-Bunbury W.A.) by Don and Jenny Ferguson

Don and Jenny Ferguson explain the demise of the UPIB group, which has ceased to be a serious research entity and now exists solely for monthly talks. They detail their involvement since 1975, Jenny's role as secretary in attempting to establish proper research and a newsletter. They describe the group's meetings as unfocused and lacking benefit, with members preferring to discuss topics like "von Danikens." Disgusted, Don and Jenny resigned, leading to the group's downfall. They express hope that a new group of serious researchers will form with stricter rules. They offer to gather data and maintain contact via an annual newsletter and request other groups to maintain contact with them. The footnote by H. Griesberg & D. Seargent expresses disappointment that members of a UFO investigation group are not interested in research. They note this has happened before, with dedicated individuals forming new groups. They mention ongoing negotiations for Don and Jenny Ferguson to pool resources with UFO Research (WA) to become investigators. They emphasize that if members do not support investigators, the latter will eventually become discouraged, leading to the group's destruction.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of UFO phenomena, the validity of evidence, and the methodology of UFO investigation. There is a strong undercurrent of questioning established beliefs and exploring alternative explanations, particularly psychological ones. The editors and authors seem to advocate for a more scientific, rigorous, and cooperative approach to ufology, moving away from anecdotal evidence and towards verifiable data. There's a clear concern about the impact of media and public perception on the subject, and a call for investigators to be educated and methodical. The overall stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking to advance the understanding of UFOs through reasoned analysis and dedicated research, while acknowledging the challenges and potential pitfalls within the field.

Title: UFO REPORTS FROM AROUND AUSTRALIA
Issue: (20)
Date: September 77 to 78 (interpreted as 1978)
Publisher/Source: UFOR(NSW), TUFOIC, UFOR (FNQ)
Country: Australia
Language: English

This document presents a compilation of UFO (Unidentified Flying Object) or UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) reports from various locations across Australia, primarily from 1978. The reports detail witness accounts of sightings, including descriptions of the objects, their behavior, and any perceived effects.

Detailed Reports

NA 78080 - Guildford District (September 1977 - September 1978)
A witness claims to have seen a bright, orange light in the Guildford district approximately 12 times over a 12-month period. A second witness corroborated seeing similar lights. While some sightings might be misidentifications of planets, others are considered less easily explained. The closest sightings involved an orange, luminescent object, spherical or elliptical in shape, with an angular size comparable to or larger than the moon. The object was initially stationary, its luminescence diminished until it appeared star-sized, and then it shot off, disappearing into the distance.

NA 78083 - Waverton (7th September 1978)
A lady traveling in a taxi in Waverton noticed a whitish, saucer-shaped object moving very slowly through a cloud bank to her right (Northeast). Initially suspecting a reflection on the car window, she lowered it to confirm. The object was not a reflection but a definite craft, described as "certainly not a plane." She pointed it out to the taxi driver, who also acknowledged seeing it. They observed the object for about 60 seconds before it disappeared as they stopped to get a better look.

NA 78122 - Australia (1st October 1978)
A man, his wife, and daughter observed two bright lights approaching their house from the East-Northeast. One light moved closer and began to hover above the house at a high altitude. Both objects emitted a flashing light, identified as a reflection from the sun. Through binoculars, the objects were seen to be disc-shaped. The closer object wobbled on its axis, and a raised upper section with a smaller dark section was noted. After approximately 15 minutes, the closer object stopped flashing and accelerated at tremendous speed to the Southwest, disappearing within a second. When the witnesses turned to look at the more distant object, it too had vanished.

ND 78003 - Port Macquarie (10th September 1978)
Two men observed a hat-shaped object at Port Macquarie at 20:30. The object emitted no noise, only a hat-shaped glow that pulsed on and off around its border. It then dropped behind trees and disappeared from view.

TA 78144 - Launceston to Australia (9th October 1978)
A husband and wife returning home from Launceston saw a bright yellow light. After a short while, the light descended and paced their car alongside the road for about 40-45 kilometers. Occasionally, an orange-red light could be seen pulsing on top of the yellow glow. The object eventually receded into the West to Southwest sky. After passing through fog banks, the object was gone upon clearing them. The sighting lasted approximately 30 seconds.

TA 78158 - Australia (25th November 1978)
The witness was awakened by her dog's unusual barking and howling outside the bedroom window. Noticing a faint glow from the study, she investigated, thinking it might be a burglar. Instead, she saw a "doorway" of white light on the rough driveway, about 50 meters away. The doorway was estimated to be 9-12 meters high and about 1 meter wide. The area outside was dark except for the doorway, through which the driveway beyond appeared illuminated as if it were daytime. The witness felt a strange sensation of being held and observed the light for several minutes. A golden glow then began spreading in a circle towards the house, lighting up the ground but not the trees. Her view was partially obstructed by windows. After a few minutes, the glow and the doorway suddenly extinguished. The witness was certain it was not a dream.

TA 78 163 - Australia (28th November 1978)
Witness' children were restless during the night. At approximately 01:00, the witness went outside the caravan and heard a 'clunk' sound, like a hand lightly thumping a car panel. Looking across the park, she saw figures. Upon returning to the caravan, the figures were still there, facing her caravan. She described them as dark-shaped, estimated to be 75 meters in height, broader than a child, with a human-like appearance but no visible neck. They appeared to have shoulder-length hair or head coverings, with no visible hands or feet. Their arms seemed to continually wave or ripple alongside their bodies, and no legs were seen. Another woman at the same caravan park had previously seen a dark shape on the ground, rippling towards her, which she found difficult to focus on. This shape was on the ground like a plastic sheet and undulated. The witness experienced watering eyes and felt "sort of mesmerised" the following day.

QB 78014 - Australia (11th May 1978)
The witness' son alerted his mother to an object approaching. Both observed the object move and then hover over trees approximately 400 meters to the West. Alleged effects on a television set and dogs were reported during the sighting. The object was described as domed, with a blue pulsating light on top in the center and a bright shiny silver coloring. It also had a band or line of yellow lights around its side, which were also pulsating. Shortly before the son called his mother, she was watching television when the picture began rolling and a static sound was heard. The dogs became agitated and acted in a panicky or fretting manner immediately before the sighting.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the diverse nature of UFO/UAP sightings reported across Australia. The reports highlight a variety of object shapes (spherical, elliptical, saucer-shaped, domed, hat-shaped, disc-shaped), colors (orange, whitish, yellow, silver, blue), and behaviors (hovering, rapid acceleration, slow movement, pulsing lights). Several reports mention potential electromagnetic effects on television sets and unusual animal behavior, particularly dogs. The editorial stance, as inferred from the presentation of these reports, appears to be one of documenting and presenting witness accounts of unexplained aerial phenomena without overt skepticism, allowing the details of the sightings to speak for themselves. The inclusion of case numbers and organizational attributions (UFOR, TUFOIC) suggests a systematic approach to cataloging these events.