AI Magazine Summary
UFO AFRINEWS - No 02
Ever wanted to host your own late-night paranormal radio show?
Across the Airwaves
You’re on the air. Callers bring Mothman, Fresno Nightcrawlers, UFO sightings, reptilian autopsies, and whispers about AATIP and Project Blue Book. Every reply shapes how the night goes.
20,263
issue summaries
Free. Always.
Support the Archive
Building and maintaining this collection is something I genuinely enjoy. If you’ve found it useful and want to say thanks, a small contribution keeps me motivated to keep expanding it. Thank you for your kindness 💚
AI-Generated Summary
Title: UFO AFRINEWS Issue: No. 2 Date: June 1989 Country of Publication: Zimbabwe Language: English
Magazine Overview
Title: UFO AFRINEWS
Issue: No. 2
Date: June 1989
Country of Publication: Zimbabwe
Language: English
This issue of UFO AFRINEWS, the second edition, continues its focus on UFO phenomena, particularly within the African continent. The cover features a stylized map of Africa with a UFO hovering above it, accompanied by a silhouette of an antelope, setting the theme for reports from various African locations.
Editorial
The editorial expresses delight at the response to the first edition, confirming the interest in UFOs beyond local parochialism and highlighting the universality of the UFO problem. The editor notes the tendency for rivalry and criticism between different UFO groups, sometimes based on differing hypotheses like the 'psychic' side or ET theory. The editorial advocates for unity and collaboration among investigators, suggesting that disagreement and debate are healthy for finding the truth. It mentions examples like Rendlesham Forest, ET sightings, the Nullaboor Plains controversy, and the Gulf Breeze case as points of discussion.
Contents
The table of contents outlines the articles and sections within this issue:
- EDITORIAL
- NEW CASE REPORTS
- LEARNING HOW TO BE A UFO INVESTIGATOR
- LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
- UNUSUAL SHAPES AND SIZES
- WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?
- NEW CASE REPORTS (continued)
- ODD POINTS TO PONDER
- BRIEF REPORTS OVER THE YEARS OF UNEXPLAINED LIGHTS
- BOOK REVIEW - 'PHENOMENON'
- IN CONCLUSION
- NEW BOOKS WORTH BUYING
New Case Reports
The magazine presents several new case reports, with the editor noting that responses have increased since advertising and radio appearances. These cases, some dating back many years, are published even if not previously recorded. The editor intends to number each case for easy reference due to the current lack of computer access in Zimbabwe.
CASE 1: Saucer-shaped Object in Moçambique, December, 1968
CASE 2: Rocket over Cape Town, November, 1980
CASE 3: The 'Whistling' Case, Cape, May, 1982
Abduction cases are not being recorded separately but will fall under a general 'Abductions' heading.
CASE 4: Silver Object over Ntabazinduna, 1956
This report details a sighting by the narrator, her mother, and a friend, Bryan Targett, along with an African gardener. They observed a silver object hovering low over Ntabazinduna, a flat-topped hill near Bulawayo. Initially mistaken for an electric wire, it was soon recognized as something else. The object shimmered and remained visible for about fifteen minutes before dissolving into the atmosphere, suggesting a possible transition to another dimension. While the narrator saw it as saucer-shaped, Bryan described it as cylindrical. The object was too far away for detailed observation, but the narrator thought she saw portholes. No sound was detected. A sequel to this sighting occurred about a year later when the narrator was on a cruise.
CASE 5: Travelling Car, Worcester-Beaufort West, 1952/53
This case involves a witness identified as DG, who was living in Worcester, Cape, South Africa. While traveling with three other bowlers, about 20 km outside Laingsburg, DG was awakened to see a glowing green ball of misty substance hovering beside the car. Moments later, the car's interior was lit by a greenish glow, and the object moved to the front, causing the engine to cut out. After the object moved into reverse, the engine cut out again. The witnesses exited the car to observe the object, which was about the size of a large tractor wheel, appearing as a dim, circular shape within a glowing mist. No photograph was taken. George, one of the passengers, felt unwell and experienced eye pain after looking into the light. Upon restarting the car, the object shot away vertically. The incident was reported to the Cape Times but received no acknowledgement, though it was briefly mentioned in a local Worcester paper. The comments section notes that the Karroo region is known for UFO sightings and vehicle interference cases, and that damage to eyes and illness were evident in this case.
CASE 2: "ROCKET" OVER CAPE TOWN (Further Report)
This section provides an update on a sighting reported in a previous issue. The witness, JS, has not yet undergone successful regression hypnosis, primarily to obtain details about letters and numbers seen on a missile-type object. An attempt with a skeptical hypnotist failed. A second hypnotist has agreed to undertake the regression. JS is convinced the object was not an experimental plane, describing it as real, close to the ground, with no wings, windows, or doors, and appearing totally sealed. He felt the craft was controlled remotely. The object's nose cone was sharp, not dark or curved, and the body was white, not silverish, with a flame in a 'vee' formation at the back. The report notes that if it's an experimental US craft, identifying the lettering could establish its identity, otherwise, it remains an intriguing incident possibly designed to mislead.
CASE 6: AN EXTENSION OF LA ROCHELLE? 9 kms from Mutare, Zimbabwe. August 1981
This case is presented through the statement of Mr Jakob Niewergelt, who lives in Mutare. The report summarizes the La Rochelle case of August 15th, 1981, where a ball of fire bounced across lawns, climbed a tower, and burst into flames, with figures seen outside. Niewergelt's experience occurred around the same time, likely a week after the La Rochelle incident. While walking past a running radial arm saw at his sawmill, he experienced a brilliant white flash in the sky. Shortly after, the saw stopped, and its motor became immobilized. Engineers could not explain the breakdown, which involved solder melting and falling into the motor coil. Niewergelt noted that other motors were unaffected, and the weather was clear. He offered to show the damaged motor, emphasizing it stopped instantly.
Learning How to Be a UFO Investigator
This section provides guidance for aspiring UFO investigators, emphasizing the importance of basic astronomical knowledge. It advises readers to be familiar with constellations and visible planets (Jupiter, Mars, Venus, Saturn), distinguishing them from stars by their steady light versus twinkling. The article explains that stars appear to twinkle due to atmospheric refraction and dispersion. It also touches upon phenomena like autokinesis (perceived movement of stars when staring) and how driving can create illusions of movement. The piece references the MUFON JOURNAL for monthly astronomical events, such as meteor showers, and mentions Mars being particularly bright in 1988. It explains meteors as matter burning up in the atmosphere and recalls a 1986 incident in Zimbabwe where a meteor strike caused trembling windows and a 'boom' without its source being discovered.
The article further describes bright meteors, or fireballs, which can appear as balls, discs, or teardrops, sometimes with luminous tails and sonic booms. Comets are described as masses of frozen gas and solid matter with unpredictable orbits. The moon can also be mistaken for a UFO, especially when its shape is distorted by clouds or refraction.
Odd Points to Ponder
This section includes a brief anecdote where Clifford Muchena, discussing entities he encountered, suggested they were his ancestors. When questioned by Cynthia Hind about their silver coveralls differing from ancestral attire, Clifford replied, "Yes, I know that", Clifford replied, "but times change.......".
Letters to the Editor
From Graham Conway, Delta, B.C., Canada: Conway found the magazine interesting and commented on the 'Jenny' of Bulawayo case and the 'blue' people. He shared an experience where a lady undergoing regression therapy described a tall, thin man in a tight-fitting blue outfit who communicated telepathically. He also referenced a whistling noise mentioned in the magazine and a buzzing sound reported by another reader, linking them to similar reports in the MUFON JOURNAL.
From 'Hélène', England: This letter discusses dreams and experiences, suggesting that some accounts, like Jenny's and MB's, might be highly structured dreams that feel real. The writer mentions 'Seth', an out-of-the-body entity channeled by Jane Roberts, and notes that Jenny appears to have precognitive dreams. The writer also reflects on the nature of dreams and how they can be experienced as another dimension.
Extract from a letter from R W Heiden, Milwaukee, Wis., USA: Heiden thanks the editors for the first issue and expresses hope for more current cases in future editions, while encouraging the magazine to maintain its African focus. He suggests checking the animal reaction catalogue in FSR for cases involving UFO sounds, as animals often react to such phenomena.
Comments on Letters
The editor comments on the letter from 'Hélène', reflecting on the distinction between dreams and 'strange' experiences. The editor acknowledges the difficulty in isolating this difference but suggests that people generally know when they are dreaming versus having a distinct experience, noting the different ways people describe them.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue include detailed case reports of UFO sightings and encounters primarily from Southern Africa, witness testimonies, and the challenges faced by UFO investigators. The editorial stance promotes a collaborative and open-minded approach to UFO research, emphasizing the universality of the phenomenon and the need for unity among researchers. There is a clear effort to document and analyze specific incidents, encouraging readers to contribute their own experiences and insights. The magazine also touches upon the psychological aspects of witness accounts and the importance of distinguishing between genuine experiences and dreams or misinterpretations.
This issue of UFO AFRINEWS, dated July 1986, focuses on the theme of "UNUSUAL SHAPES AND SIZES" of reported UFOs, primarily drawing on cases from Zimbabwe and South Africa. The magazine presents a series of witness accounts, investigative notes, and speculative articles.
Unusual Shapes and Sizes
The introductory section highlights the common question about the number of UFO reports received and notes that accurate statistics are difficult to obtain, with media coverage influencing reporting. The author mentions a series of eight programs for the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation in 1988 which brought several sightings to light. The author's intention to visit various centers in Zimbabwe annually or biennially is stated, aiming to keep citizens informed. Acknowledging that many people in remote areas may not be reached, the author hopes to overcome any superstitions about their involvement with UFOs.
The article emphasizes that the variety of reported UFO shapes is intriguing and often similar. Recent cases illustrate the role of perception, interpretation, visual effects, and personalized fantasy. The author respects the anonymity of informants but is prepared to divulge identities to serious ufologists.
Case Studies
CASE 1: JG, Chegutu, Zimbabwe (July, 1986)
A witness described seeing a "weird thing" at about 9 pm, with colors in-between shiny red-orange and blue. It was silent and shot across the sky, described as similar to the shape of a sports car with chains hanging from it. The sighting lasted about 10 seconds.
CASE 2: O G, Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa (1-2 March, 1985)
This witness reported three tear-drop shaped, misty silver objects in a 'V' formation travelling NE. They left a silvery trail and moved an estimated 5 kms in about 30 seconds. The objects were estimated to be 7-10,000 metres above ground level, with no aircraft sound reported. No radar confirmation was obtained.
CASE 3: J S, Cape Town, South Africa (November, 1980)
This case was reported in UFO AFRINEWS I and the subject had not yet responded to regressive hypnosis.
CASE 4: T S F H, Centenary, Zimbabwe (14-15 April, 1987)
African farm workers observed a lozenge-shaped object moving across the night sky at high speed with no sound. The moon was bright and the object was high.
Illustration 4, Case 4: Depicts a UFO with blue, green, and white lights and flames, and a white light seen, travelling in a specific direction.
COMMENT: The article notes that many objects could have natural explanations depending on cultural background or perception. However, the record of shapes is considered important for future UFO identification.
Where Do We Go From Here?
By Maria Sullivan (Further speculation on UFO/Human interaction)
This section speculates on the nature and purpose of UFOs. After over 40 years of speculation, the origin and purpose remain unknown. Hypotheses include extraterrestrial craft, beings from Earth's future, other dimensions, parallel worlds, or experimental craft from our own time. The author notes that the extraterrestrial hypothesis is increasingly doubted by scientists, who suggest it might be a human phenomenon related to misperception. However, the sheer number of unexplainable sightings suggests something genuine is being recorded. A growing suspicion is that the purpose is genetic experimentation, with abduction cases often involving the forcible taking of genetic material.
The author proposes a tentative scenario where entities might need human reproductive material for genetic purposes, possibly to improve their own faulty bodies or stock. Cooperation, rather than opposition, is suggested as a way to solve their problem and potentially create a link. This could lead to a breakthrough in understanding their motivation and accelerate the evolution of a hybrid species.
Science fiction writers are cited as "Latter Day Prophets" exploring such ideas. The possibility of human evolution taking an unexpected turn, perhaps into a new dimension for interplanetary or intergalactic travel, is raised. The article suggests that UFO entities might be hastening human evolution because humanity is not adapting quickly enough to survive the planet's conditions or the challenges of space travel.
Humans have had ample time to mutate but have shown little progress, potentially appearing as "laggards of the galaxy." The entities may be providing a vital service for future survival by attempting to create a cross-fertilised species. This is compared to domestication of animals and plants, where humans have forced migration and changed characteristics for survival.
Case 7: CE III in the Drakenstein Mountains, Paarl, South Africa
This case is attributed to a phone call from Ignacio Cabria, a Spanish Ufologist, with material translated by Cabria and M Sullivan. The witness, Henry (name withheld), recounts an experience from the summer of 1951.
Henry, then working for the British Rheostatic Company, lived near Paarl. His car battery was flat, so he drove it to a plateau near the Groote Drakenstein mountain to recharge it. At about 11:15 pm, he saw a figure with an upraised arm signalling him to stop. The man, who had an odd accent, asked for water. Henry directed him to a stream. The man then invited Henry into a circular object, about 10-15 metres in diameter and 4 metres tall, located about 100 metres off the road. The object had a lighted opening and a ladder.
Inside, Henry saw four other men, one of whom was injured and had been burned. The occupants were shorter than Henry, about 1.50-1.60 metres tall. They wore beige laboratory coats. The craft had no visible instruments, dials, or engines. Propulsion was explained as annulling gravity using a heavy fluid circulating inside a tube to create a magnetic effect. The speed of the fluid equaling the speed of light would stop the magnetic force. They obtained this fluid and magnets from where they came from, "From there" (pointing to the stars).
Henry was led out after about 15-20 minutes. The oil container he had used for water was gone. The next morning, he found four faint marks on the ground where the craft had been.
Follow-up Investigation: In January 1989, investigators Prier Wintle, Jane Sykes, and the author visited Paarl to check Henry's story. They found no registration for Henry's farm in 1951. They also visited the plateau, confirming its location and altitude. They were unable to trace the British Rheostatic Company. The investigation aims to verify facts, but cannot prove or disprove the story.
Odd Points to Ponder
During the investigation of Case 7, the team noted that during a 12-minute stop on the plateau, no cars or trucks passed, but as soon as they started to move, traffic resumed. This is presented as an "odd point."
Brief Reports Over the Years of Unexplained Lights
This section presents several brief reports of unexplained lights and objects:
- Mtepatepa, Zimbabwe: November 8th, 1981 Mrs A S Carew saw an unidentified object travelling horizontally at 1800 hours, described as a bright magnesium light, appearing large and low. A smaller shape ejected from the larger object, then another and another. Several explosions were heard later.
- The Wattle Company, Nyanga, Zimbabwe: 23rd March, 1980 Mr O P Martins reported seeing a bright object, about a quarter of the moon's size, through binoculars. It was stationary, then faded and reappeared, appearing like a quarter moon with a glowing glass tube pointing skywards. It moved westwards and entered clouds, which were lit up as if by a spotlight.
- Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, 12th May 1980 Reported by R G, a bright object with a brilliant blue light, described as a fat oval shape, was seen.
- Harare, Zimbabwe: 31st December, 1974 Mrs N C reported an enormous orange pulsating sphere hovering silently above shops for about 10 minutes, then moving majestically and vanishing straight upwards. Her neighbour also witnessed it.
Book Review and Commentary
PHENOMENON -- edited by John Spencer and Hilary Evans (1988)
This book is highly recommended for ufologists, described as an "undoubted 'must'" and the "best thing I have come across" in articles representing various viewpoints on the UFO problem over 40 years. It is a British production, emphasizing that the Extraterrestrial (ET) hypothesis is not generally accepted in Britain and Europe, unlike in the US. The book includes articles by Budd Hopkins on abductions and John A Keel on studying witnesses. Kenneth W Behrendt provides a paper from the ET perspective on how spacecraft could operate as UFOs, utilizing projections of contemporary Earth technology.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are the diverse shapes and sizes of reported UFOs, the challenges in collecting accurate data, and the speculative nature of UFO origins and purposes. The magazine presents witness accounts with a degree of skepticism, acknowledging natural explanations while also highlighting the persistent mystery. There is a strong undercurrent of speculation regarding the potential role of UFOs in human evolution and genetic experimentation. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various cases and theories while encouraging further investigation and documentation, particularly of physical evidence and witness testimony. The inclusion of a book review suggests an effort to engage with the broader ufological community and current research.
This issue of UFO Magazine delves into various aspects of ufology, with a particular focus on British contributions and critical analysis of the field. It reviews a book that covers a wide range of topics, from historical accounts of 'airships' to the use of computers in UFO research and skeptical discussions.
Book Review and Analysis The reviewer finds the book potentially confusing for newcomers due to the diverse and sometimes contradictory articles. However, it is deemed suitable for existing Ufologists. Several articles are highlighted:
- Government Cover-Up: Articles by Jenny Randles (Britain) and Bill Chalker (Australia) suggest that governments refuse to release information, and even with Freedom of Information Acts, sensitive files are protected. Both researchers conclude that the cover-up pertains not only to what is known but also to what is not known, with a concern that valuable photographic evidence might be lost.
- Computers in Ufology: The author expresses skepticism regarding the value of computers for UFO analysis, particularly criticizing the UNICAT project by Dr. Willy Smith. While acknowledging their utility for record-keeping and statistical work, the author questions the premise that numerical representation is superior to direct experience and warns against the tendency to over-quantify phenomena.
- Witness Testimony and Psychology: Mark Moravec's article "Is There a UFO State of Mind?" is described as an arid list of psychological definitions with little relation to actual cases. In contrast, Cynthia Hind's "UFOs Through Innocent Eyes" is praised for bringing readers closer to personal contact with witnesses, examining cases involving children, black Africans, and South African contactees, emphasizing the need for individual judgment. John A. Keel's "The People Problem" article is noted for stressing the psychic aspect of UFO phenomena and downplaying the extraterrestrial hypothesis, suggesting that UFO experiences are manipulated and work through human minds and perceptions.
Case Studies and Investigator Qualities The issue examines several specific cases:
- Broadhaven Case (Wales, UK, 1979): The author expresses past opposition to Hilary Evans' handling of this case, where a witness's testimony was dismissed due to a prior police conviction. The author argues that despite questionable elements like alleged cattle teleportation, the evidence from multiple witnesses, including children, should not have been disregarded so easily. This leads to the conclusion that investigators need both critical faculties and tolerance.
- Rosmead Tennis Court Affair (South Africa): A professor's dismissive explanation of a whirlwind is contrasted with the author's thorough investigation, which involved extensive interviews and correspondence. The author notes that those who were not present still maintain the whirlwind explanation, while those involved know it was something inexplicable.
- Zimbabwean Air Force Incident: The Commander of the Air Force confirmed an unidentified object chased by two jets. However, the author's explanation involving a French weather balloon was rejected, highlighting the difficulty in convincing some authorities.
- Gulf Breeze UFO (Florida, USA): This case is mentioned as an example where criticism might obscure the basic truth, involving an anonymous witness photographing UFOs on multiple occasions.