Awareness - 1985-86 - Vol 14 No 2

Magazine Overview

AWARENESS, Journal of Contact International, Issue 2, dated 1985-6, is a publication from Contact (UK) based in Wheatley, Oxford, England. This issue, Volume 14, No. 2, covers a range of topics related to ufology, including scientific explanations for UFO phenomena, case reports, and organizational news.

Contents

The issue features an editorial, articles on "Producing UFO Light" by Kiril Terziev, "On the Benefits of Being Half Foolish" by M. Soper, and an obituary for Dr. J. Allen Hynek. It also includes sections on "Mock Sun" Incident, Computerisation of UFO Catalogue, Data Research Visit to North Wales, and a Book Review. A "UFOs Round the World (Map)" is also presented, along with advertisements.

Editorial

The editorial notes the passing of Dr. J. Allen Hynek, a prominent figure in ufology, and mentions an obituary on pages 12-13. It observes a current scarcity of UFO sightings but anticipates an increase with warmer weather. The editorial highlights ongoing reports from the North Wales area, investigated by Margaret Fry, and mentions a visit by Data Research members. It discusses the challenges of obtaining witness accounts and the importance of investigators building rapport. The piece contrasts urban environments with isolated rural areas, suggesting the latter are more conducive to UFO activity due to reduced misidentification possibilities. The editorial also announces the installation of a computer at Wheatley for UFO sighting data research and thanks members for donations, urging renewals. Finally, it introduces a reproduction of the "UFOs Round the World" map, commissioned by another magazine but never published, featuring drawings by Bernard Delair based on Contact's archives.

Producing UFO Light

This article by Kiril Terziev explores the nature of luminous UFOs, describing them as flying machines with symmetrical shapes (spheres, lenses, discs) and luminous openings along their periphery. These openings can appear as belts of luminous mass, cylinders, or truncated cones, sometimes composed of luminous strings. Central openings are also noted. The article posits that the luminous mass is likely aerial plasma produced by the UFO's propulsion system. Air is drawn in, accelerated, and expelled, creating lift-force. At hypersonic speeds, collisions between aerial particles lead to excitation and ionization, resulting in luminosity. The article explains the sharp boundaries of these lights and their changeable heights as a function of speed, and suggests their curvity is due to electrical attraction and repulsion between aerions, creating magnetic fields. It also relates curvity to Bernoulli's principle and apparent swirlings.

How UFOs Produce Light

Expanding on the previous section, this part of the article details how aerial plasma is created. The propulsion system draws in atmospheric air, accelerating particles which then escape through exit openings, generating lift. Hypersonic speeds cause particle collisions, leading to excitation and ionization, and thus luminosity. The article explains that the sharp, changeable boundaries of luminous UFOs are linked to variations in speed. Electrical attraction and repulsion between moving aerions are proposed as the cause of the 'solid' lights' curvity, creating magnetic fields. The text also references Bernoulli's principle and swirling phenomena.

Collision Processes in the Aerial Propulsion

This section delves into the complex collision processes involved in aerial propulsion. It introduces symbols for aerial particles (electrons, atoms, ions, excited states) and outlines various elementary processes, including elastic collisions, excitation, ionization, associated ionization, transfer of excitement, chemical reactions, and de-excitation. It details processes involving electrons and atoms/molecules, such as elastic collisions, inelastic transitions, ionization, dissociation, and attachment. It also covers elementary collision processes involving ions, like resonance and nonresonance charge exchange, mutual neutralization, and decay of negative ions.

Application to the Atmosphere

The article discusses how these collision processes apply to atmospheric air, which consists mainly of oxygen and nitrogen. It details the states of atmospheric particles (atomic, molecular, excited, ionized) and explains that de-excitation processes lead to light emission, making the air luminous. Recombination processes also contribute to light emission. The text notes that ionic particles in airflows can undergo chemical reactions, forming compounds like ozone, nitric oxide, and nitrogen dioxide, which are sometimes reported near UFOs. Odours of formaldehyde and nitrobenzene are also mentioned as potential byproducts.

Electric Current

This section explains the generation of electric current in hypersonic aerial flows. It states that UFO propulsion involves neutral molecules, atoms, positive ions, negative ions, and free electrons. While ionization creates equal amounts of positive and negative particles, their movement can create a magnetic field. The article explains that electrons can escape the aerial flow, while positive ions, after exiting the propulsion system, gradually lose speed due to collisions. This results in a cloud of positive particles below the UFO. If two UFOs are positioned such that their charged 'clouds' are near each other, an electrical discharge can occur. The article illustrates how a UFO's magnetic field could induce an electrical current in a nearby closed circuit, such as a car headlight, depending on the relative positions and movement of the UFO and the vehicle.

On the Benefits of Being Half-Foolish: 1

This article by Michael Soper discusses the slow percolation of theoretical insights into public consciousness. It highlights that while people may grasp concepts like relativity, they often fail to understand the everyday consequences of principles like Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle. The core ideas presented are: "THE OBSERVER AFFECTS THE OBSERVATION" and "THE ACT OF OBSERVATION UPDATES THE EVERYDAY WORLD."

Contact International Council

The issue lists the members of the Contact International Council, including Founder President Lord Clancarty, Vice President Geoffrey Ambler, President Ruth Rees, and various other officers such as the Hon Treasurer Derek Mansell, Membership Secretary Mrs. Sandie Robb, Senior Research Officer Derek Mansell, Investigations Co-ordinator David Ridge, and Editor Geoffrey E. Ambler.

References

A list of references is provided, citing various scientific publications and books related to plasma physics, atomic theory, gas dynamics, and ufology, primarily from Russian and English sources.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of AWARENESS are the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, particularly focusing on the physical mechanisms behind UFO propulsion and luminosity. There is a clear emphasis on plasma physics and electrodynamics as potential explanations for observed UFO characteristics. The journal also demonstrates a commitment to documenting and researching UFO sightings, as evidenced by the mention of their computerization efforts and a visit to North Wales investigators. The editorial stance appears to be one of objective inquiry, seeking scientific explanations for UFOs while acknowledging the contributions of key figures like Dr. J. Allen Hynek. The publication also serves as a platform for sharing research findings and news within the Contact International organization.

This issue of Flying Saucer Review, dated May 1, 1986, focuses on the passing of Dr. J. Allen Hynek, a pivotal figure in ufology, and explores broader themes of perception, measurement, and the nature of unexplained phenomena. The magazine includes detailed reports of UFO sightings and a meteorological explanation for a 'mock sun' incident.

The Nature of Fact and UFOs

The issue opens with a philosophical discussion on the definition of 'fact,' contrasting the restrictive, purely scientific view with a broader, more psychological understanding. It posits that 'fact' for scientists relates to measurement, but for most people, the richest aspects of the world are unmeasurable. The article critiques the modern separation of measurement from mystery, arguing that the world is far more than what senses can perceive. A quote from psychologist C.G. Jung suggests that UFOs might be real material phenomena from outer space, but that humanity's unconscious contents have projected significance onto them, giving them a meaning they 'in no way deserve.'

The text then links this to the 'rich situation' of UFO existence, noting the existence of phenomena like Psi, Dowsing, and Remote-Viewing, which are attested and, in some cases, scientifically proven. It distinguishes between 'communication' and 'link' or 'harmony' models in parapsychology, stating that physical causality is not always involved. The article draws a parallel between the limitations of measurement in parapsychology and the difficulty in measuring certain aspects of the universe. It asserts that UFOs and 'Skygods' have been observed since ancient times, citing Egyptian accounts.

Robert Ornstein is quoted on the two major modes of consciousness: the verbal/rational and the intuitive/holistic. The magazine suggests that recognizing the intuitive mode is crucial for a balanced understanding.

George Adamski and Sky-People

The issue references George Adamski's accounts of 'sky-people,' suggesting that his message, despite potential inaccuracies in relaying information, should not be dismissed. It highlights a 'field unifying consciousness' associated with these beings, similar to Jung's observations about shared dreams and hopes projected onto UFOs. The article notes that 80,000 official reports, alongside numerous unofficial sightings, indicate that the UFO phenomenon is not merely psychic projection. It mentions instances of 'sky-people' exhibiting altruistic behavior, though sometimes with pragmatic or even playful methods, such as the Cisco Grove and Kelly-Hopkinsville cases.

Contactees have reportedly been told that the 'sky-people' do not believe in time and are repelled by human fear. The text compares undeveloped races to humans who organize into tribes and engage in destructive wars, noting that science has made these wars lethal. It concludes this section by stating that not everything can be measured and that progress requires a balance.

Adamski Quotes and Bob Short

Further quotes from Adamski are presented, lamenting humanity's self-inflicted desolation and failure to realize the richness of other life forms. He speaks of man's barren plot on Earth and his repeated errors due to ignorance. The text warns that a purely measurement-driven approach leads to nothing, advocating for a 'half-foolish' approach to learn from animals and friends about living in harmony. It suggests that overly calculating values lead to a deluded relationship with the world, and that true awareness contains immeasurable aspects.

Bob Short is quoted emphasizing the importance of working, thinking, and living for peace, suggesting that these qualities naturally attract others and align with the 'NATURAL ORDER AND LAW OF THE COSMOS.'

The UFO Phenomenon and Parapsychology

The article reiterates that the sky holds more than astronomy and measurement, and that mankind is more than what can be measured, as evidenced by the history of parapsychology. It encourages a less timid approach to established orthodoxy and a quiet development of harmony to maintain man's mystery.

A bibliography lists several books and reports related to UFOs and related topics, including works by J. Allen Hynek, G. Adamski, Brad Steiger, and the Tao Te Ching.

Obituary: Dr. J. Allen Hynek

The central piece of the issue is an obituary for Dr. J. Allen Hynek, who died on April 27, 1986, at the age of 75. Hynek was a leading figure in ufology since 1948, consulting for the US Air Force's 'Project Bluebook' for over 20 years. He was the Director of the Lindheimer Astronomical Research Centre at Northwestern University and served as a consultant to NASA. He advised Steven Spielberg on 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' and appeared in the film. Hynek also founded the Center for UFO Studies (CUFOS).

His general philosophy was that of a 'cautious believer,' convinced of UFO existence but unwilling to categorically state what they are. He famously stated, "I cannot presume to describe however what UFOs are, because I don't know; But I can establish beyond reasonable doubt that they are not all misperceptions or hoaxes." Despite his skepticism, he never claimed a genuine UFO sighting himself, unable to apply his strict scientific parameters to his own limited observations.

Hynek is credited with systematically defining UFO experiences into 'Close Encounters of the First, Second, and Third Kind.' His group, CUFOS, and Contact International exchanged sightings for UFO catalogues (UFOCAT). The obituary notes rumors of links between Hynek and the CIA or hidden aliens, but dismisses these as originating from scandal rags, emphasizing Hynek's objective and well-reasoned published work.

The obituary also details Hynek's academic background, including his professorship at Northwestern University and his involvement in the development of the Navy's radio proximity fuze during World War II. His early career included work at Ohio State University and the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory, where he was involved in tracking American space satellites for the International Geophysical Year. A traumatic experience for him was the Soviet launch of Sputnik in 1957, which he described as an 'intellectual Pearl Harbor.'

He is survived by his wife, Miriani Curtis, four sons, and a daughter.

Mock Sun Incident

This section details a 'Mock Sun' incident reported on March 8, 1986, near Oxford, UK. Several witnesses reported seeing a glowing ball in close proximity to the sun, appearing as 'two suns' with rainbow colors and tails. The University of Oxford's Meteorological Office, Atmospheric Research Department, provided an explanation: the phenomenon was caused by a thin layer of high ice cloud refracting sunlight, creating images of the sun known as 'mock suns' or 'sun dogs.' These typically appear at a 22° angle from the sun and can be accompanied by a halo. The report notes that such ice clouds can precede bad weather.

Computerisation of UFO Catalogue

Contact International Data Records is undergoing computerization. A new AMSTRAD 256K computer has been acquired, and a programming consultant has developed a 1000-line program for abbreviated UFO report entries onto floppy discs. The process of transferring existing records is expected to take years.

Data Research Visit to North Wales

A team from Data Research visited Investigator Margaret Fry in North Wales to investigate reported UFO landing sites and interview witnesses. They visited a desolate, undulating area and were informed that aircraft maneuvers were unlikely due to the terrain. The team met six witnesses from three major sightings in December 1985 and January 1986.

Four ladies from Prestatyn reported seeing a large saucer-shaped object hovering at roof-top level on January 22, 1986. Two other witnesses, a farmer and his nephew, reported seeing a brilliant red ball of light flying low on January 4, 1986.

Detailed descriptions of these sightings are provided, including the appearance of the objects (e.g., divided into three saucer shapes, giving off colors, brilliant white light, red ball of light) and their behavior (hovering, looping, shooting back/forth, traveling rapidly). The Walwel Farm sighting estimated the object to be 44 feet long.

Data Fields and Coding

The issue outlines the 14 title headings and character allocations used for analyzing each UFO report, including fields for Date, Time, Place, Number, Sound, Landing, Occupant, Type, Emissions, Colours, Reactions, Mechanical Effects and Materialisations, Observational Detail, and Source. Examples of coding for sounds and observational details are provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of evidence, particularly in the context of UFOs and parapsychology, questioning the limitations of purely scientific, measurement-based approaches. There is a strong emphasis on the importance of intuition, holistic understanding, and the mysterious aspects of consciousness. The obituary for Dr. J. Allen Hynek underscores his significant contribution to making the study of UFOs more scientifically respectable, while acknowledging the inherent difficulties and mysteries involved. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging the exploration of unexplained phenomena without succumbing to sensationalism or dismissing the unmeasurable aspects of reality. The magazine promotes a balanced perspective, integrating rational analysis with intuitive insights and advocating for peace and harmony.

AWARENESS, Volume 22, Issue 'NEXT EDITION', dated 28th December 1985. Published by CONTACT INTERNATIONAL, this issue focuses on UFO sightings and related theories, including a review of the book 'The Lost World of Agharti'. The cover features a world map illustrating UFO sightings globally.

UFO Sightings Reports

Prestatyn Suburban Street Sighting (January 22nd, 1986)

This section details a sighting by a witness in Prestatyn, who observed a saucer-shaped object with lights underneath. The object was described as possibly three joined saucer shapes with scaffolding underneath, and its lights were red, blue, green, and yellow. It hovered, emitting a pulsing, humming noise similar to a generator, before performing aerobatics and vanishing. The witness was described as relaxed and honest.

Meliden Village Cross-roads Sighting (December 28th, 1985)

Witnesses at a dark cross-roads initially mistook a white light for a plane. Upon investigation, the light appeared red with various colours and shaped like a rugby ball. It zig-zagged and descended into a field, disappearing from sight. When landed, the object was described as bright poppy-red. The witnesses reported feeling 'adrenalined' rather than frightened. Red and green lights were observed, and the object appeared to be rotating.

Eric R and Keith E Incident (January 4th, 1986)

Two witnesses, Eric R and Keith E, reported seeing an unusual object above eye-level, flying at approximately twice the height of a house. The object took about 40 seconds to traverse from above the trees to above a house opposite before de-materialising. It had a central red light and two white lights on each side that flashed together like a strobe, with no sound. The red glow was described as very big. The RAF reported no aircraft in the area, and the Army base at Anglesey only operates helicopters. A witness named Miss P. from next door had reported a similar sighting earlier that day at 17:08 hrs in daylight, describing an object that maintained its height but seemed to go higher, estimated at 44' across with a brilliant red light.

Other Reports and Comments

Comments on the sightings suggest consistency with other reports, with some variations in details like the mention of a red-V area or the size estimate. The humming noise described is noted as similar to other encounters, though not pulsed. The witnesses in the Prestatyn case were deemed credible. The report of Eric R and Keith E is commented on, with the possibility of it being a plane seen under unusual conditions being considered, though the object's slowness is noted as a counterpoint. A potential mistaken distance could also explain the disappearance.

Media Mentions

Later TV reports indicated similar sightings in Bangor and the Dee estuary, with police investigating.

Book Review: "The Lost World of Agharti"

This section reviews Alec Maclellan's book "The Lost World of Agharti" (1983). The reviewer, J.B. Delair, describes the book as speculative but fascinating, focusing on the theory of a global network of ancient tunnels linked to an underground city or paradise called Agharti (or Shamballa). The book suggests this network is inhabited by descendants of ancient tunnel builders and ruled by a 'King of the world'. Tunnels are purported to exist across various continents and under oceans.

Criticisms and Inaccuracies

Delair notes that Maclellan's evidence for these feats is largely hearsay, ancient legends, and travellers' tales, with no mention of a clear photograph of a tunnel entrance in Peru published by A. Savage-Landor. The reviewer points out several inaccuracies in the book, including misidentifying Harold T. Wilkins as an explorer, incorrect dates for William Buckland's exploration of Kirkdale Cave, and misattributions of historical figures like Rev. John Hotten (mistaken for Rev. John Hutton). Geographical inaccuracies are also noted, such as referring to India as a continent rather than a subcontinent, and the dating of the Riz Veda.

VRIL Power and UFOs

The book introduces the concept of 'VRIL power' reputedly used by the inhabitants of the tunnels, and links it to UFOs, suggesting they emanate from the subterranean world of Agharti. This theory is noted as familiar to knowledgeable ufologists.

Overall Assessment

Despite its inaccuracies, the book is considered a 'rattling good read' and interesting, though its direct relation to the UFO enigma is debatable. The reviewer regrets the omission of maps from the paperback version.

Next Edition and Advertisements

Next Edition

The organization has placed classified advertisements in various magazines and is seeking UFO sighting reports. Three replies have been received: a ship sighting in mid-ocean on June 24th, a Trident aircraft sighting off the coast near Torquay, and a sighting by a Jersey policeman around 1965. Further replies are expected.

Advertisements

• The issue includes advertisements for:
• QUEST, the Journal of UFO investigation, published by the Yorkshire UFO Society.
• WORLD UFO DIRECTORY.
• 'The Moving Statue of Ballinspittle and Related Phenomena' by Lionel Beer FRAS.
• UFO NEWSCLIPPING SERVICE.
• Books and Magazines for Sale, including titles on UFOs and mysteries.
• PHOTOCOPYING SERVICE from CONTACT Headquarters.
• CAR Stickers.
• UFO AND SPACE AGE PUBLICATIONS, including 'George Adamski the Untold Story' and 'Skycrash A Cosmic Cover Up'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently features reports of UFO sightings, often with detailed witness accounts and attempts at analysis. There is a clear interest in the phenomenon and its potential implications. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting evidence and theories for reader consideration, as evidenced by the detailed book review and the call for sighting reports. The inclusion of advertisements for UFO-related publications and services further reinforces the magazine's focus on the subject matter. The review of 'The Lost World of Agharti' highlights a willingness to explore more speculative theories, such as inner-earth origins of UFOs, while maintaining a critical perspective on factual accuracy.