ACOS Bulletin - Number 8

Magazine Overview

This issue of the A.C.O.S. BULLETIN, Number Eight, dated December 1976, is published by the AUSTRALIAN CO-ORDINATION SECTION. CENTRE FOR UFO STUDIES, based in GOSFORD NSW, AUSTRALIA. The cover features a graphic representation of a target with a waveform, and the main headline 'journal of AUSTRALIAN CO-ORDINATION SECTION. CENTRE FOR UFO STUDIES'. It also includes a definition of a UFO attributed to Dr. J. Allen Hynek.

Editorial

The editorial, by H. Griesberg & D. Seargent (Co-Ordinators), addresses the question of why study the UFO phenomenon. They argue that humans are drawn to challenges and the satisfaction of solving problems, even in specialized fields. While some UFOs might be explained as natural or biological phenomena, the association with psychic events opens a new dimension. UFO research could be key to unlocking the mystery of the paraphysical, determining if psychic phenomena point to an uncatalogued force or if known forces suffice. The nature of the UFO phenomenon, whether natural, extraterrestrial, or mind-created, has revolutionary implications for our concept of reality. The editorial concludes with a quote from Dr. J. Allen Hynek, calling the UFO one of mankind's greatest challenges, with a solution that will represent a quantum jump in science.

Articles and Features

The Australian Computer File

This article by M. Smyth discusses the development of a computer storage system for over 2,000 UFO reports held by various Australian groups. The aim is to make sighting data accessible for pattern extraction and prediction of future sightings. It highlights the time-consuming nature of manual data processing, contrasting it with the efficiency of a computer system. The article details the planned format, the process of data entry starting in 1977, and the distribution of printouts to member groups. It also mentions the use of a UNIVAC 1004 for a press release in January 1977.

Some Notes on a Point of Definition

Authored by K. Basterfield, this article reviews ideas on UFO 'occupant' cases and proposes a new system for classifying entity reports to avoid terminological confusion. It discusses terms like 'occupants', 'humanoids', and 'close encounter type three', referencing works by Charles Bowen, C & J Lorenzen, Jader U Pereira, J Vallee, and David Webb. Basterfield introduces a classification system with four entity report classes: ERA (entity observed inside, leaving, or entering a UFO), ERB (entity observed with no associated UFO but similar to previously reported UFO-associated entities), ERC (entity observed with no current association to the UFO phenomenon, including cryptids), and ERD (reports involving telepathic, audio, or 'invisible' communications with a bearing on the UFO phenomenon). The article also provides examples and references, and invites comments for adoption by ACOS member organizations.

The RATAN-600

This article by B. Konovalov describes the RATAN-600, a unique radio telescope in the USSR. It explains the history of radio astronomy, its importance in discovering celestial objects like quasars and pulsars, and the limitations of Earth's atmosphere to visible light. The RATAN-600, with its 600-meter diameter, is presented as a major achievement. Its design, located in the North Caucasian Mountains, features a large disc made of metal plates and an array of 895 movable reflectors. The article details its operational principles, focusing on its ability to receive radio waves across a wide spectrum and its advanced computer systems for tracking celestial sources. It mentions initial studies on the sun, Jupiter, Mars, and Venus, and its potential for exploring the galaxy's nucleus and distant radio sources.

The Northern UFO Network - England

Authored by Bryan Hartley, this article was originally an address to delegates of UFOCON TWO. It introduces the Northern UFO Network (NUFON), established in 1975, which publishes the Northern UFO News. NUFON aims to liaise between UFO groups in northern England, share information on events and sightings, and promote voluntary research. The article emphasizes the principle of 'no bosses' and self-participation, fostering a better working relationship between groups and individual researchers. It notes the collaboration between NUFON, the British UFO Research Association Ltd., and CONTACT U.K. to pool resources and reduce duplication. NUFON is also establishing international links, including with Dr. J. Allen Hynek's Center for UFO Studies and ACOS.

Australian Photographic Case Catalogue

This section, by D. Mitchell of UFOR inc. SA, announces the collection and research of photographic UFO cases in Australia and New Zealand. The catalogue's purpose is not to provide photographic evidence but to serve as a reference source for analyzing future cases. It breaks down the cases into diffused light sources (60%) and DD/gaseous objects/reflections (40%), noting that daylight cases are often of higher probative value. Details of investigated cases are welcomed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the systematic study and organization of UFO data, the scientific exploration of the universe through radio astronomy, and the importance of collaboration and networking within the UFO research community. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry, acknowledging the mystery of UFOs while emphasizing the potential for profound discoveries, particularly concerning the intersection of UFO phenomena with paraphysical aspects of reality. There is a clear commitment to rigorous data collection, classification, and international cooperation.

This issue of UFOLOGY magazine, dated Summer 1976, is identified by volume 10 and is published by ACOS. The primary focus of this issue is on the scientific analysis of UFO phenomena, particularly through the technique of photogrammetry, and a compilation of reported UFO sightings.

Photogrammetry

The article "PHOTOGRAMMETRY" explains the process by which UFO photographs are evaluated. It details how photogrammetric analysts use projective geometry and laws of optics to determine UFO size, distance, and speed. The core equation presented is I = A x f / d, where 'I' is the image size on film, 'A' is the actual size of the object, 'f' is the camera's focal length, and 'd' is the distance to the object. The article elaborates on how each variable is measured or estimated, noting that 'd' can be ascertained using proportional equations with reference objects or witness testimony. It also touches upon calculating speed from movie film by comparing movement relative to reference objects and the number of frames per second. The accuracy of this analysis is stated to depend on the quality of photographic evidence, and suggestions are made for improving data collection, such as rapid shots from different locations and simultaneous photography by multiple witnesses to create parallax conditions.

UFO Sightings Compilation

Pages 10-16 feature extensive lists of UFO sightings reported across Australia and New Zealand, with dates and locations. These entries span from 1935 to 1976 and include brief descriptions of the events. Examples include:

• 10.10.1935, Newcastle N.S.W.: A sighting reported.
• 4.4.1953, Numurkah VIC.: A sighting reported.
• 31.8.1953, Prt. Moresby N.G.: A sighting reported.
• 15.1.1954, Alice Springs N.T.: A sighting reported.
• April 1954, New Zealand: A sighting reported.
• April 1954, Eucla, W.A.: A sighting reported.
• 20.4.1954, Toowong, Bris. QLD.: A sighting reported.
• 29.4.1959, Blackwood S.A.: A sighting reported.
• 29.5.1961, Gundagai N.S.W.: A sighting reported.
• June 1961, Saint George QLD.: A sighting reported.
• 13.7.76, Rochester NSW: Two witnesses reported a bright white light that forced a motorbike off the road and caused car radio static.
• 22.9.76, Bothwell Tasmania: Two witnesses reported a bright red/orange ball-shaped object with a glow area above.
• 25.9.76, Karawinna VICTORIA: Four witnesses reported a group of red lights that flashed and rose from the ground, later resulting in a 71-foot circle of discolored grass and one witness reporting severe neck pains and ear issues.
• Central Coast N.S.W. (UFOR CC): Reports of a continuing flap, including a man noticing a stationary row of five white and green lights, and a separate incident where a disc-shaped object with a dome hovered above a car.
• Crackneck Lookout (near Central Coast N.S.W.): A creature described as off-white with large shoulders and pointed fingers was seen by two couples.

News from the Center

This section announces the arrival of "The International UFO Reporter," a new monthly publication from the Center for UFO Studies, available for $15 per annum. Proceeds are earmarked for research. The premier issue features an article on a Close Encounter in Connecticut, a selection of 102 cases, and an introduction by Dr. Hynek on the state of UFO art.

Dr. Hynek's editorial emphasizes that UFO reports continue to intrigue and challenge our understanding of reality, suggesting that conventional views may need to change. He stresses the importance of diligent, well-supported research to understand the phenomenon.

New documents available from the Center include a "Catalogue of 200 Type 1 sightings" ($5) and the "April 1976 CUFOS Conference Proceedings" ($15).

Research Surveys

Survey of Possible UFO Sightings by Amateur Astronomers

An abstract of a research project by Gert Herb is presented, investigating why amateur astronomers might report fewer UFOs despite their systematic sky scanning. The survey aims to establish the relative sighting incidence among amateur astronomers compared to the public, identify peak UFO activity times, and determine if flaps are reflected in their sightings.

Preliminary UFO Information Use Survey

George Eberhart conducted a survey of active UFO researchers, with a 33% response rate from 484 questionnaires. The survey found that most respondents had college degrees, with a tendency towards hard sciences. Major interests included Close Encounters (70.2%) and occupant cases (65.8%). 44% had written on UFOs in the past five years, with astronomical literature, parapsychology, and religion cited as sources of information. Conversation with scientists and ufological literature were also significant sources. The survey also noted that one-fourth of respondents spent 2-4 hours reading UFO literature weekly, and 11.8% spent over ten hours. The most popular UFO journals were APRO Bulletin, Flying Saucer Review, and Skylook. Key UFO books recommended for libraries included Hynek's "UFO EXPERIENCE."

ACOS News

Formation of Australian Entity Study Group

Keith Basterfield has formed a study group focused on collecting reports of "occupants," "humanoids," and CE type 3 cases from Australia and New Zealand to issue more detailed studies.

Formation of Australian Physical Trace Study Group

Bill Chalker is establishing a study group to investigate cases where UFOs have left physical traces on the ground.

New I.D. Cards

UFO investigators in Australia will be issued identification cards, approximately 87 x 55 mm, costing 25 cents.

An Australian UFO Organisation History

ACOS is seeking information to compile a history of Australian UFO organizations, requesting details on their origins, activities, publications, and membership.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the importance of rigorous data collection and analysis (as exemplified by photogrammetry), and the ongoing reporting of sightings. The editorial stance, particularly from Dr. Hynek, emphasizes the need for an open mind and continued research to understand the UFO phenomenon, suggesting it may represent a significant shift in our understanding of reality. There is a clear effort to document and catalog UFO-related activities and reports, both historically and currently, within Australia and internationally.