ACUFOS Journal vol 2 no 4

Magazine Overview

Title: THE JOURNAL OF THE AUSTRALIAN CENTRE FOR UFO STUDIES
Issue: Volume 2, Number 4
Date: July/August 1981
Publisher: The Australian Centre for UFO Studies
Country: Australia

This issue of the journal focuses on promoting research into UFO phenomena within Australia, emphasizing an open and democratic approach where diverse viewpoints are welcomed. It acknowledges the passing of two long-time staff members and highlights the importance of internal debate and reasoned arguments in advancing the field.

Editorial

The editorial, by Harry Griesberg and Keith Basterfield, stresses that the Australian Centre for UFO Studies (ACUFOS) does not hold a predetermined policy on the cause of UFO phenomena. As a representative body for various research groups and individuals across Australia, it embraces the diversity of opinions regarding the cause of UFOs. The editors emphasize that there is still significant 'paydirt' in the subject to warrant continued research. They advocate for presenting challenging viewpoints in a reasonable and logical manner, supported by evidence, as this contributes to healthy progressive research. The editorial references an article in the MUFON Journal which discredits the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH), noting that the author of that article also makes assumptions. The ACUFOS JOURNAL, like the MUFON JOURNAL, is open to articles of debate on various theories (time travellers, inter-dimensional, extraterrestrial, psychological, psychic, etc.), both for and against, believing that internal debate in a calm atmosphere is crucial for progress. A survey indicates that most ACUFOS members do not believe they have found 'the answer' yet. The journal also welcomes contributions from Vladimir Godic of UFO RESEARCH-AUSTRALIA-NEWSLETTER (UFORAN), who shares a similar philosophy for his publication's 'Forum' section.

Transitions

This section, by W. C. Chalker, reports on the passing of two long-time staff members of UFO Research (NSW): Frederick J. M. Phillips and J. C. Chalker. Phillips, who passed away on June 21st, 1981, is described as a man of extraordinary intellect with profound interests in the occult and practical explorations of mysteries. He was a supporter of UFO research since the 1950s, making premises available for group meetings and later becoming President of the UFO Investigation Centre (UFOIC) after Dr. Mirian Lindtner's death. Phillips was among the first in Australia to consider the psychic dimensions of the UFO phenomenon. He also assisted the author in researching the 'Mystery of a Machine to go through the Air'. Phillips was a member of the Liberal Catholic Church and believed in reincarnation.

From Plausibility to Proof: The "Smoking Gun"

In this article by John Prytz, the author discusses the challenge of establishing proof for UFO phenomena. He begins by reflecting on his past suppositions regarding extraterrestrial intelligence (ETIT) and interstellar travel, noting that plausibility must precede proof. Prytz argues that while many plausible theories for UFO phenomena exist, each case should be investigated on its own merits rather than treating UFOs as a bulk phenomenon. He suggests that the gut feelings of witnesses should be heavily weighed, citing the work of Judith and Alan Gansberg, who found themselves being arrogant in trying to find alternative explanations for abductees' experiences. Prytz proposes a 'smoking gun' approach, where a team of highly qualified, multi-disciplined personnel would use an agreed-upon ranking system to identify the single best UFO case. This case would then be subjected to rigorous dissection, akin to Sherlock Holmes' method, to either identify it as an IFO (identified flying object) or confirm it as a UFO with high probability, potentially leading to scientific proof.

Historical Reports in Australia (Part 4)

Bill Chalker presents several historical UFO reports from Australia. The first is from Mr. H. E. Blank, recalling events in central Queensland in the mid-1930s, where he witnessed a brilliant light and a sickle-shaped object. Another report details an event in October 1935 near Newcastle, where Mr. P.A.M. Terry photographed a large, mushroom-shaped object. In February 1944, a Beaufort bomber flying over Bass Straight was accompanied by a 'dark shadow' object that caused instrument failure. The article also includes a report from an enlisted man on picket duty in Greta Army camp, NSW, in 1947, who saw a silver dome-shaped disc with blue flames. Finally, a report from the winter of 1947 describes a young woman and her son encountering a 'dazzling golden ball' hovering over the road near Maffra, Victoria.

A Brief Summary of an Analysis of the Temporal Distribution of an Italian Type-1 Cases Sample

Maurizio Verga, assisted by Keith Basterfield, presents a study on the temporal distribution of Italian Type-1 UFO cases. The author emphasizes that while such statistical analysis may seem dated, it is important for understanding the 'human' factors of the phenomenon. The study aims to clarify the characteristics of the phenomenon's manifestation and provide data that, when associated with other parameters, can aid in theorizing about the UFO phenomenon's outward appearance. The analysis focuses on temporal, geographical, and social parameters, as well as physical effects. The sample consisted of approximately 360 Type-1 cases, with sources including first-hand investigation reports, journalistic reports, and direct testimonies. The study found that 75.6% of sightings occurred in the seventies, with a peak in 1978, and that the second half of the year sees more sightings than the first, with Autumn being the most active season. Daily distributions varied, with some months showing accentuated peaks.

References

This section lists the references used in the article serialised across the last four issues of the ACUFOS Journal, covering various books and publications related to Australian history, folklore, religions, and UFO reports.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the importance of rigorous and open research into UFO phenomena, the value of historical case studies, and the need for a systematic approach to establishing proof. The editorial stance is one of inclusivity and intellectual honesty, encouraging debate and discouraging dogmatism. The journal actively promotes research within Australia and acknowledges the contributions of both individuals and organizations in this field.

This document is a bibliography service from ACUFOS, presented in two parts. Part 1 lists journal articles related to the Condon Study and UFOs, while Part 2 offers a selection of UFO-related fiction and novelty items. The issue also features articles discussing the temporal distribution of UFO sightings, the concept of synchronicity in UFO research, and personal tributes to individuals involved in the field.

Time Distribution of UFO Sightings

The article "TIME DISTRIBUTION" analyzes the temporal patterns of UFO sightings. It states that the ratio of night sightings to day sightings is approximately 4 to 1, with the peak distribution occurring between 2100 and 0100 hours. The article notes a contradiction in autumn and winter, where longer night hours do not necessarily correlate with more night sightings, suggesting a possible link between reported cases and the quantity of potential witnesses. One hypothesis proposed is that the phenomenon might exploit the visual misinterpretations possible in low-visibility night conditions to establish a psychological state in witnesses, potentially for manipulation or conditioning.

Subject Notes: UFOs and Synchronicity

Holly I. Goriss's "Subject Notes" serves as a reminder to UFO researchers about the nature of their field. She emphasizes that UFO study is a specialized field and warns against an "Ivory Tower" mentality. Goriss advocates for improving the quality and quantity of basic data rather than focusing solely on interpretation. She also discusses the "Black Swan" fallacy, cautioning against deductive logic's limitations and highlighting the value of inductive logic for discovering new truths. The author suggests that many UFO researchers have never seen a UFO themselves, which can provide an impartial perspective but also carries the risk of inadvertently influencing witness statements.

Eeppp!: UFOs and Synchronistic Events

Mark Moravec's article, "Eeppp!: UFOs and Synchronistic Events," explores the concept of synchronicity, defined by Jung as "meaningful coincidences." The article presents case studies involving Dr. Andrija Puharich and Stella Lansing, where apparent coincidences were interpreted as evidence of extraterrestrial intelligence. The Puharich case includes instances of "technological difficulties" being resolved by the "Management" through seemingly coincidental events, such as the cheap acquisition of a Faraday cage. The Lansing case involves a series of synchronistic events, including a cassette recorder failure, anomalous film images, and a poltergeist-like event with a coffee cup and saucer.

The article also touches upon the Mothman phenomenon and a radio interview involving Jerome Clark, where a sound similar to Mothman's reputedly occurred on the tape.

Moravec discusses the theories of Carl Jung and more recent research by Hardy, Harvie, and Koestler, which re-examined the nature of coincidence. The Hardy-Harvie experiment suggested that coincident thoughts occurred more often than expected by chance, even in control groups.

An alternative hypothesis to synchronicity is presented through psi processes, with Rex Stanford's concept of Psi-Meditated Instrumental Response (PMIR) suggesting that individuals unconsciously use ESP to bring about coincidences. The author concludes that "synchronistic events" are likely a combination of random coincidences and paranormal events, questioning the need for a separate synchronicity hypothesis.

ACUFOS Bibliography Service

Compiled by John Prytz, this section provides a comprehensive bibliography divided into two parts:

Part 1: The Condon Study and Report - Journal Articles

This part lists numerous contemporary journal articles from the period surrounding the Condon Report, covering its findings, controversies, and scientific reception. Entries include articles from publications like Popular Science, Scientific Research, Saga, Science, Newsweek, Time, and The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists.

Part 2: UFOs - Fiction (of and about) and Novelty Items

This section offers a selection of UFO-related books, booklets, and other media that are not strictly scientific but provide lighter relief or explore fictional aspects of the UFO phenomenon. It includes items related to "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," cartoons, and general UFO fiction.

Bibliography Updates

Further updates to bibliographies are provided, including sections on Exobiology, Life in the Solar System, Space Colonies, Astro-Archaeology & Ancient Astronauts, Artificial Intelligence, Monsters, and Unidentified Flying Objects.

Personal Tributes and Epilogues

The issue includes tributes to individuals who have contributed to the UFO field. A continuation from page 2 mentions Transitions by W. C. Chalker. A tribute to William E. Moser (1907-1981) highlights his role as secretary for the UFO Investigation Centre (UFOIC) and his extensive correspondence. An epilogue notes the passing of Hall Robb of Western Australia, who donated his collection of UFOIC newsletters.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the statistical analysis of sightings, and the exploration of psychological and philosophical interpretations of UFO encounters. There is a strong emphasis on rigorous data collection and analysis, as seen in the discussion of time distribution and the critique of speculative theories. The concept of synchronicity is explored as a potential explanation for seemingly meaningful coincidences in UFO cases, with a leaning towards integrating it with psi phenomena and random chance rather than treating it as an independent, acausal principle. The bibliography service indicates a commitment to documenting the history and breadth of UFO research and related cultural expressions. The editorial stance appears to favor a critical, evidence-based approach while acknowledging the complex and often perplexing nature of the subject matter.

This document appears to be a page from a magazine or journal, labeled 'B' and page number '(20)'. It lists several references to articles and a television program concerning UFOs.

Referenced Content

Item 15 This entry references a "UFO Incident Over Bass Strait" that was broadcast on a Seven (TV Program) on October 23, 1978.

Item 16 This entry cites an article titled "Were UFOs Really Squid Boats?" published in New Scientist on March 15, 1979, on page 878.

Item 17 This entry refers to an article by John White titled "'Space Critters': Unidentified Flying Animals?" published in Frontiers of Science in the January/February 1981 issue, on pages 30-34.

Additional Note There is a handwritten note below item 17 stating "*Regarding disappearing satellites."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance The content focuses on UFO phenomena, referencing specific incidents, scientific articles, and media broadcasts. The inclusion of the note about "disappearing satellites" suggests an interest in unexplained aerial phenomena and their potential connection to space activities. The references span from 1978 to 1981, indicating a focus on contemporary reports and discussions within the UFO community during that period.