Awareness - 1995-96 - Vol 20 No 3

Magazine Overview

Title: Awareness
Issue: Volume 20 No 3
Date: Season 1995-6 (Issue date likely 1995)
Publisher: Contact International (UK)
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of "Awareness" magazine, the journal of Contact International (UK), is dedicated in part to the memory of its founder, Lord Clancarty (Brinsley Le Poer Trench), who passed away on May 18th, 1995. The cover prominently features the headline "editor pursued by alien beam - exclusive" and a striking illustration. The magazine delves into various aspects of ufology, including tributes, research updates, and theoretical discussions.

Editorial

The editorial, penned by "THE EDITOR", begins with the somber announcement of Lord Clancarty's passing. It reflects on his significant contributions to ufology in the 1960s and 70s and notes his final years were spent in poor health. The editor then shifts focus to the controversial purported alien autopsy film released by Ray Santilli, expressing strong skepticism and calling it a "concoction" and "elaborate hoax." The editorial also touches upon the ostracization of Professor John E. Mack at Harvard for his work on "Abduction" and discusses the challenges of getting paranormal events taken seriously. The editor mentions successful night photography results and a personal observation of crop circle creation, which was mistakenly attributed to a "long pole" photographer by onlookers. Finally, it congratulates the current President, Bernard Delair, on his co-authored book "When the Earth Nearly Died."

Lord Clancarty Tributes

This section features tributes to Lord Clancarty, the founder of Contact International. A tribute from Ruth Rees, former President, describes Brinsley as a warm, witty, and congenial man dedicated to UFO investigation. She recounts how she formed a Spanish branch of Contact International at his invitation and later joined the UK committee. Rees highlights his role in arranging a significant UFO debate in the House of Lords, praising his hard work, imagination, and tenacity. She emphasizes his unique position as a link between the past and present of British ufology and expresses that he will be greatly missed, with the hope that he now "knows all the answers."

An obituary from "The Times" details Lord Clancarty's life, noting his passing on May 18th, 1995, at the age of 83. It mentions his instigation of a House of Lords debate on UFOs in 1979, his theory that aliens populated Earth 65,000 years ago, and his authorship of seven books on the subject between 1960 and 1974. His books include "The Sky People," "Men Among Mankind," and "The Flying Saucer Story." The obituary also notes his role as editor of "Flying Saucer Review" and founder-president of Contact, an international UFO group. His family history, including Huguenot origins and an ambassadorial ancestor, is also mentioned.

J.B. Delair contributes a piece titled "BRINSLEY LE POER TRENCH (1911-1995): LINK BETWEEN PAST AND PRESENT." Delair, who knew Brinsley for over 30 years, assesses his unique position in British ufology. He recounts Brinsley's early involvement with UFOs, influenced by authors like Gerald Heard, Desmond Leslie, and Harold T. Wilkins, and his subsequent correspondence with figures like Ray Palmer and Dr. Meade Layne. Delair highlights Brinsley's early books, which explored ideas of 'Sky People' and extraterrestrial influence on human origins, predating later theories by authors like Von Daniken and Sitchin. Brinsley's perspective was that UFOs represented benevolent creators, contrasting with the more aggressive alien portrayals in popular culture. Delair notes Brinsley's acceptance in later years that multiple extraterrestrial races likely existed, some potentially hostile or indifferent. He also mentions Brinsley's hypothesis that space races might be controlled by a higher intelligence and that UFOs were too superior to need direct contact, instead studying humanity from afar. Delair points out that Brinsley's ideas sometimes included novel interpretations that limited support from 'nuts and bolts' ufologists, though his books were popular with general readers.

Delair also lists Brinsley's opinions on other ufologists and researchers, including Charles Bowen, Frederick Hehr, Arthur Constance, Ray Palmer, Harold Wilkins, Meade Layne, Dr. Allan Hynek, Frederick Passey, John Cleary-Baker, and Ivan T. Sanderson. Brinsley is described as a shrewd judge of character who looked for the positive in others.

Editor Pursued by Alien Beam - Night Photography Update

This section, by Data Research, discusses the ongoing investigation into unknown life or energy forms captured by flash photography. It notes that while some globes might be camera artifacts, a spiral from November 1994 and a structured entity from February 1995 remain unexplained. The update details the activities of several UFO groups: Plymouth UFO Group (PUFORG), Cornwall 2 (CCCS), and Contact International. Investigations by Brian James and Geoff Ambler for Contact International are mentioned, with a focus on inexplicable clouds and red areas in photos. The section highlights a specific incident on May 24th at Wittenham Clumps, Oxon, where Geoff Ambler captured a large, marked globe using 100 ASA film, and Brian James also photographed faint globes and raindrops. The size of the globe is estimated to be at least 6 inches in diameter, suggesting it's not merely a raindrop. Further film from Seaton, Cornwall, on May 30th, captured remarkable spirals, a phenomenon previously seen by the same camera near Oxford. The report includes notes on a pink-edged opaque beam and a wispy, transparent spiral beam. Data Research welcomes more participants and emphasizes the need for patience and persistence in this project.

Signs in the Fields - 16th Year

By G.E. Ambler, this article reports on the return of crop circles in 1995, dispelling predictions of their demise. The "hot spot" at Cheesefoot Head near Winchester is noted, and the complexity and size of the 1995 designs suggest more than simple hoaxing. The term "Signs in the Fields" is proposed as formations have evolved beyond circles to complex geometric configurations, possibly intended to make humanity aware of other lifeforms. The article maps the distribution of formations, noting early appearances in Lancashire and Bolton Green, and a build-up in rape and barley crops, with a high activity line from Warminster to Winchester. It mentions specific formations, including a large ringed circle with mini Celtic crosses and a "scorpion" formation. The article also details a large design in the Cheesefoot Head Punchbowl, described as a "flower head." The author anticipates significant events as the phenomenon moves into wheat crops and announces the upcoming annual Crop Circle Bulletin.

All in the Brain - Can electromagnetic influences on the brain cause UFO sightings and alien abductions?

This article, by Craig Roberts, is part of a dissertation for a BSc degree in Psychology and explores Michael Persinger's hypothesis. Persinger theorizes that luminous phenomena associated with seismic activity can affect the percipient's brain, leading to experiences that mimic UFO sightings and alien abductions. The theory categorizes effects as direct (e.g., tingling, amnesia) and indirect (e.g., emotional interpretation of events). Persinger's research found correlations between seismic activity and UFO reports, particularly in the United States, though the correlations were not always strong. The article discusses the evidence for Persinger's theory, including his assessment of seismic activity and temporal lobe stimulation. It also presents criticisms of the theory, such as the short duration of earthquake lights, the sampling techniques used, the conflation of correlation with causation, and the omission of data in some of Persinger's reports. Blackmore's laboratory experiment, designed to induce alien abduction experiences using magnetic stimulation, is also mentioned, along with her doubts about the theory's broader applicability.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Awareness magazine consistently explores the unexplained and the frontiers of human knowledge, particularly concerning UFO phenomena. The editorial stance is one of critical inquiry, as evidenced by the strong skepticism towards the alien autopsy film. There is a clear dedication to preserving the history of ufology, as seen in the extensive tributes to Lord Clancarty and the detailed accounts of early researchers. The magazine also embraces empirical research, evident in the night photography updates and the analysis of crop circle patterns, while also engaging with theoretical frameworks like Persinger's hypothesis. The overall tone suggests a commitment to open-minded investigation tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism and a desire to understand the complexities of UFO experiences and their potential explanations.

This issue of Contact International, dated 1995, delves into various aspects of UFO research, critically examining prominent theories and presenting detailed reports on specific phenomena and events. The magazine features in-depth analyses of the work of Michael Persinger, the 'Earthlight hypothesis' linking UFOs to seismic activity, and a comprehensive dossier on the 1978 Thessaloniki earthquake and associated UFO sightings.

Critiques of Michael Persinger's Theories

The issue begins by scrutinizing Michael Persinger's theories on UFOs and alien abductions. Rutkowski (1984, 1990) is cited for noting that Persinger's UFO figures are often misidentified. Swords (1990a,b) contends that Persinger rarely references the specific effects of clinically stimulating temporal lobe structures and that it's not obvious how low-strength electromagnetic fields can induce hallucinations. The author notes that Persinger assumes prior knowledge of temporal lobe dysfunctions and provides little evidence for the mechanisms behind his theory. While temporal lobe epilepsy can involve hallucinations, this is typically linked to long-term conditions and psychiatric deviance, which doesn't align with individuals who claim single experiences or exhibit no psychiatric issues. An ethical question is raised regarding whether Persinger's 'normal populations' testing might precipitate future lability. The lack of reported alien entities in Persinger's studies is also highlighted, contrasting with common abduction reports of 'short grey entities with large black eyes'. Persinger's belief that verbal labels influence experiences is questioned, as such labels are culture-specific, yet alien entities are described with remarkable uniformity across cultures.

The article also addresses Persinger's 'ignorance of critics,' suggesting that while this allows for theory development, it risks overlooking flaws. A debate in the Journal of UFO Studies concerning Persinger's theory and Paul Devereux's 'sister' theory of earthquake lights is mentioned, with Devereux's response being characterized as arrogant. Persinger's warning about the hazards of UFO flaps and sites of alien abductions, linking them to cancer, depression, tumours, and leukaemia, is also discussed. The author points out that Persinger overlooks the fact that many field investigators and percipients remain healthy, and that his theory, which predicts carbonization or electrocution from close encounters, is contradicted by the widespread evidence of survivors who can recount their experiences.

Laboratory abductions, a newer research area for Persinger, are described as contrived, requiring specific conditions like dim lighting and a helmet. While participants remember everything, they cannot recall specific events as in 'real' abductions. Persinger's mock abduction scenarios do not yield reports of sexual, medical, or gynaecological encounters, which are common themes in real abduction cases. The author's attempt to correspond with Persinger regarding his theory's generalization to field settings yielded no reply. A final criticism notes that 'tectonic strain' is an unpopular explanation for UFOs, and that alien abductions should be considered. Despite these criticisms, Persinger is commended for his perseverance in sticking to his theory.

Contemporary Thought and Support

Further discussion on Persinger's work highlights his focus on psychology in UFO/alien abduction research. While his theory might account for a small proportion of experiences, UFO research has moved beyond 'lights in the sky' to more complex phenomena. The neuropsychological information gathered by Persinger could be useful for understanding temporal lobe lability and the effects of electromagnetism.

Correspondence with UFO research groups and psychologists reveals varied opinions. Michael Soper of Contact International (U.K.) expressed annoyance at scientists debunking UFO research without study, and questioned why power station workers, exposed to electromagnetism, don't report more UFOs/abductions. Malcolm Robinson of Strange Phenomena Investigations welcomed Persinger's work but believed UFO/abduction accounts were real, suggesting a partly psychological origin. Tony Dodd of Quest International (U.K.) rejected the temporal lobe theory due to the worldwide consistency of abduction reports across different cultures. David Barclay, an author and UFO specialist, believes Persinger is flawed by assuming all experiences are 'in the mind,' thus presuming a distinction between subjective and objective reality. Barry Beyerstein of Simon Fraser University shares this view. Paul Norman of the Victorian UFO Research Society noted that Persinger ignores characteristics that don't fit his theory. Yuri Lozotsev of the Voronezh Joint Anomalous Phenomena Research Committee expressed pride in the research but stated that the Tectonic Stress Theory fails to explain UFO phenomena adequately.

Overall, there is minimal support for Persinger's explanations. Even Blackmore, who underwent a laboratory abduction, did not fully advocate his theory, particularly for outdoor abduction cases. Persinger's contrived laboratory abductions lack the detail of real abduction experiences. The evidence for his theory is considered weak, and if geological/psychological communities have not accepted it, its future appears bleak.

Earthlight Hypothesis Flawed: Earthquakes, Sunspots and UFO's

This section, authored by M.C. Soper, examines the correlation between UFO waves, earthquakes, and sunspots. Data from the Sunspot Index Data Centre in Belgium is used to analyze UFO waves across different sunspot cycle phases: MINIMUM, ASCENT, PLATEAU, RAPID DESCENT, and SLOW DESCENT. The analysis shows that UFO waves occur least during the minimum phase and most during the rapid descent phase, with the ascent phase being the next most frequent. The Russian scientist Viafonas Zeva suggested that major earthquakes often happen during the sunspot MINIMUM phase. The article notes that these two facts suggest UFO waves occur most frequently when earthquakes do not. Currently near a sunspot minimum, the article references recent tragic earthquakes in Kobe and Neftegorsk.

A table presents UFO wave countries by time and sunspot cycle, indicating a distribution across phases. The author discusses the 'Earthlight' hypothesis, which suggests that seismic activity and piezo-active crystals in strata might emit earthlights. However, the correlation between UFO waves and seismic stress is found to be weak, particularly concerning the 'ETLE' (Earthlight strikes temporal lobe producing epileptic aura) model. The article questions why power station workers, exposed to high electric fields, do not constantly experience ETLEs. The author concludes that the evidence presented does not support the Earthlight hypothesis as an explanation for UFO fighters or Close Encounters, especially when considering the ETLE model.

The data indicates the following distribution of UFO waves across sunspot phases: 5.4% at Minimum, 34.8% during Ascent, 11.9% during Maximum, 38% during Descent, and 9.9% during Slow Descent. The phases of the Sunspot Curve (SIDC Belgium) are noted as being nearly equal in length.

Astronomical Notes

Authored by G.E. Ambler, this section provides information on planetary and stellar positions that might be mistaken for UFOs. Venus is highlighted as the most commonly mistaken planet due to its brightness and position. Mars is noted as prominent in early 1995. Jupiter is also frequently visible and bright, with its moons observable through binoculars. The article discusses the brightness scale (magnitude), with Venus at -4.4 being the brightest object listed after the sun (-26.5). A list of monthly astronomical movements, including moon phases and meteor showers, is provided for 1995, detailing the visibility of planets like Mercury, Venus, Mars, and Saturn throughout the year.

Dossier of Greek UFology (Part II): The Thessaloniki Earthquake of 1978

This extensive section, summarized by Brian James from Omiros Karajas's reports, details events surrounding the major earthquake in Thessaloniki on June 20, 1978. Leading up to the earthquake, the region experienced numerous minor tremors and quakes centered on Lake Volvi, causing panic. Significant quakes of 5.7R and 5.0R occurred on May 25th and June 3rd, respectively, causing damage. A 4.5R quake on June 12th was deemed an aftershock.

From June 12th onwards, strange occurrences were reported: underground noises, shaking of the lake, and mysterious warnings of Thessaloniki's destruction on June 19th from individuals who then vanished. These warnings culminated in a strong quake on June 19th and a major earthquake exceeding 6.5R on June 20th at 23:04hrs. During the main quake, witnesses reported sudden strong winds, ground twisting, dizziness, and lights remaining on despite damaged power lines, suggesting a strong electric field and ionization of the air. A strong blue light was observed in the northeast part of town.

Following the earthquake, numerous UFO sightings were reported. Two hours after the quake, a grey circular object, the size of the full moon, was seen passing over the town towards Lake Volvi, along with reports of blue spheres. On July 4th, a strange 'star' hovered over the town for 5 hours. On September 14th, a 'fire object' was seen, and on September 16th, a triangular object with a zig-zag motion was observed during a lunar eclipse.

Omiros Karajas, who was left homeless, was able to gather data, revealing further curious reports. An army camp reported an object about 200m above the ground, silent, and blue in color, which remained for an hour before disappearing. Similar lights were seen on subsequent nights. Karajas corresponded with Dr. Bill Papazahos, a geophysics doctor, who stated that 'earthlights' were unexplained and that recording devices were unavailable at the time, resulting in lost data. The author of this section questions whether earthlights, which are dynamic phenomena, could remain stationary for hours, suggesting that highly seismic regions should produce more reports if earthlights were the sole explanation for UFO sightings.

Specific UFO sightings detailed in the dossier include:

• Spring 1978 - Didimoticho: A large metallic cigar-shaped craft was seen moving slowly, with an airliner passing below it.
• May 1978 - Athens: A uniform grey/blue object with a red light underneath moved spasmodically.
• July 1978 - Peloponnisos: A strong yellow-white light, shaped like an upturned saucer, appeared about 50m away.
• September 16, 1978 - Thessaloniki: A strange luminous object was seen, claimed by astronomers to be a rocket re-entry, but denied by witnesses. Later the same day, a very dark triangular object with rapid movements was observed alongside an aircraft.
• October 26, 1978 - Paphos, Cyprus: A red disk-shaped object with a small dome and 'portholes' was seen hovering over a tree.
• October 27, 1978 - Paphos, Cyprus: A dark saucer-shaped object with a green luminescence was observed.
• December 1978 - Oresmada: An object shaped like a huge 'Z', comprised of a blood-red point of light, moved at high speed.
• December 20, 1978 - Paphos, Cyprus: A bright rectangular object, the size of a large car, emitting orange light, was observed for 30 minutes.
• December 22, 1978 - Aegaleo: An object with one large light surrounded by 8 smaller lights in a halo was seen, moving and reversing course.

Midnight Books and Other Publications

The issue includes advertisements for "Midnight Books," specializing in secondhand books on the unexplained, and "Contact International UK," offering an A4 booklet on UFOs and UFOLOGY, UFO badges, and information on meetings. It also promotes a course on expanding sensory powers and a "UFO NEWSCLIPPINGS SERVICE." Additionally, "UFO AND SPACE AGE PUBLICATIONS" lists available books and magazines.

New Stock and Book Reviews

A "NEW STOCK" section lists various paperback and softcover books related to UFOs, aliens, and related topics, including works by Jacques Vallee, Budd Hopkins, Charles Berlitz, Zecharia Sitchin, and Jenny Randles. Hardback books and videos are also listed. A review of "ARE WE ALONE" VHS pal and "The 12th Planet" and "Genesis Revisited" by Zecharia Sitchin is provided, referencing their exploration of extraterrestrial life and Sumerian cosmology.

UFO Dial

A light-hearted anagram puzzle titled "UFO DIAL" is presented, with rules and the answer to the previous issue's puzzle ("POWERCUT"). The current anagram is connected to sightings involving motor vehicles or people at home that often feature disruption or loss of electrical power.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of established UFO theories, particularly Michael Persinger's work, and the exploration of alternative explanations like the 'Earthlight hypothesis.' There is a strong emphasis on presenting evidence, questioning assumptions, and highlighting inconsistencies in research. The detailed dossier on the Thessaloniki earthquake underscores the magazine's interest in correlating unexplained aerial phenomena with significant geophysical events. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging rigorous investigation while remaining skeptical of unsubstantiated claims. The inclusion of astronomical notes and book reviews suggests a broad approach to understanding phenomena that might be mistaken for UFOs, as well as providing resources for further research.