Awareness - 1997-98 - Vol 22 No 4

Magazine Overview

Title: AWARENESS
Issue: 22.4
Date: Summer 1998
Publisher: Contact International Publication
Country: England

This issue of Awareness magazine, dated Summer 1998, presents a comprehensive look at UFO phenomena, crop circles, and related mysteries. The cover features the title in bold green lettering, a stylized alien head graphic, and a list of featured articles.

Editorial

The Loneliness of the Long Distance Ufologist

The editorial reflects on the editor's 20 years of participation in ufology. He notes that he has personally reported few indeterminate UFO events and has never seen a structured craft, suggesting that conscious attempts to 'tune in' often fail. He posits that witnesses reporting UFOs in crowded areas while others see nothing might be influenced by a controlling force, creating a 'hologram' rather than a physical object. He also suggests that 'abductions' might be a product of an induced mind state rather than physical abuse. The editor mentions a breakthrough in communication with 'alien forces' in 1992, describing them as invisible forms of controlled energy or 'spirit'.

A significant portion of the editorial addresses the current state of ufology, noting a downturn in interest following a peak around 1995, attributed to the popularity of 'X-Files' and the 'alien body' story. He laments the dominance of 'marketing' and 'hype' in the field, leading to the short lifespan of glossy UFO magazines and financial difficulties for larger research groups. The issue of financial strain is highlighted by the mention of a conference loss and the unlikelihood of another conference in 1998.

Contents and Articles

News in Brief:

• Rendlesham New Evidence: Newly published witness statements from 1980 suggest American servicemen chased the Orford Ness lighthouse beam, with implications of seeing two separate light sources (red and blue lights before identifying the lighthouse beacon).
• Sudden Death of Stephen Schiff: Congressman Stephen Schiff, who ordered the reopening of the Roswell investigation, died of aggressive skin cancer at 51. The article raises suspicions about the origin of his illness given his interest in classified matters.
• Cosmic Collision Films: The year 1998 is noted for disaster movies about planetary collisions, with themes of destruction and potential global cooperation.

Investigative Reports:

• Night Photography Replication: The editor reports achieving anomalous images on camera, including tapering beams and purple blobs, suggesting possible external influences or photographic artifacts.
• More 'Apports' Arrive: Nick Rigby found an arrow-shaped stone with a dowsable energy, similar to other 'apports' found by a colleague. A crystalline white powder found in 1997 is still giving off heat.
• Russian Mirror in Space: Plans for a mirror in orbit to illuminate Russian towns are mentioned, with a prediction of increased UFO reports from uninformed witnesses.
• Margaret Fry Retirement: Investigator Margaret Fry is retiring due to ill health after a significant contribution to ufology, including work on the Berwyn Valley case and establishing a Welsh Federation of UFO groups.
• Martian Face - The 1998 Reality: Comparison of new Mars Global Surveyor photographs with 1976 Viking shots of the Cydonia region suggests the 'face' is a steep escarpment, and that the 1976 interpretation required significant conjuring.

Sighting Summaries (Data Research):

This section details several sightings from late 1996 to early 1998:

• October 1996 - Rugby, Northants: Witness saw an orange-coloured triangular object moving fast.
• October 1996 - Rugby, Northants: Witness saw a glowing white ellipse hovering over the town.
• 24 February 1998 - Seaton Cornwall: Witness saw a ball-like object, blue in colour, with a blue 'smoke' trail, traversing the sky.
• 21 March 1998 - Horspath, Oxford: A family witnessed a large cherry-red disk surrounded by six smaller blue disks, with pale yellow beams emanating downwards. A digital mobile phone failed to get a signal during the sighting.
• 22 March 1998 - Horspath, Oxford: The same family reported a large, near-circular, yellow 'disk' surrounded by two 'segmented rings', with stars visible through the formation. This occurred despite reports of cloud cover in the wider area.
• 22 March 1998 - Horspath, Oxford: Another family reported seeing numerous and varied 'light displays' of circles, rings, and bars moving constantly.
• 22 March 1998 - Horspath, Oxford: An independent witness reported five or six white balls 'orbiting' a common centre.
• 13 March 1998 - Dursley, Gloucs: A witness saw a pale golden-yellow ellipse surrounded by 12 smaller ellipses, rotating and moving together.
• 19 April 1998 - Torbay area, Devon: Reports of mysterious power outages, with one victim seeing much of the Torbay area without power due to a transformer explosion.
• 23 April 1998 - Bovey Tracey, Nr Newton Abbot, Devon: A 'boomerang-shaped' craft with red flashing lights and no sound was seen flying low over a factory, then hovering and heading off across the countryside.

Research Update:

• Flashes in the sky: The Iridium telecommunications satellites are identified as a potential cause for UFO reports due to their large reflector dishes spectacularly reflecting sunlight. These flashes are short-lived but bright and can be seen through cloud and in daylight.

Awareness Reader's Forum (Results from Questionnaire, April 1998):

18 people responded to a questionnaire. Key findings include:

• Article Preferences: Sightings (83%) are most important, followed by Historical (61%) and Crop Circles (44%).
• Paranormal Interest: Strange Phenomena (67%) and Earth Mysteries (56%) are of high interest.
• Reading Habits: 89% read Awareness from cover to cover.
• Belief in UFOs: Readers believe UFOs are primarily from Outer Space (72%), followed by Experimental Secret Craft (61%), Unexplained/Natural Phenomena (44%), and Solid Nuts and Bolts (33%).
• Origin of UFOs: Most believe UFOs come from Outer Space (72%), with Time Warp/Dimensional Travel (61%) and Within the Earth (28%) also noted.
• Definition of UFO: Various definitions are provided, ranging from anomalous aerial phenomena to objects not designed on Earth or controlled by higher intelligence.
• Alien Pictures: 6% believe pictures of aliens are real, 44% do not, and 28% are undecided/maybe.
• Interests: Book Stand Magazine (52%), Hardback (47%), Paperback (53%), Video (73%) are popular.
• Favourite Authors: Timothy Good is the best-selling author.
• Group Membership: 28% belong to other UFO-linked groups.
• Subscriptions: 22% subscribe to other magazines.
• Internet Use: Only 11% browse the Internet, with 89% not doing so.
• Homepage: Nobody has seen the homepage.
• UFO Encounters: 61% have witnessed a UFO. Descriptions include small white objects with sparks, three lights in a triangular formation, an orange circular object, numerous light displays, a half moon shaped object, and RAF jets chasing discs.
• Skywatch Participation: 50% are interested in taking part in skywatches.
• Local Meetings: Only 17% are interested in Oxfordshire meetings.
• Data Collection: 56% are willing to assist in data collecting and analysis.

Meteor Invasion - Just What Is Going On? (By Geoff Ambler):

This article details the third 'meteor invasion' event of 1998 on July 10-11th, involving mass sightings of lights, explosions, and vapour trails across Britain and Ireland. Witnesses reported giant letters of light forming "Z" or "2" and "Q". Despite coastguard observations, the events were blamed on satellite re-entries and meteors. The article questions the natural explanation for these events, noting their frequency in 1998 (3 displays in 4 months) and their occurrence outside typical meteor shower dates. It raises specific questions about the duration, smoke trails, noise, and formation of letters by meteors, suggesting that natural phenomena do not fully explain the reports.

Signs in the Fields 19th Year (By Geoff Ambler):

Crop circles began appearing in April 1998, with formations noted in Weyhill, Andover, and near Silbury Hill, Wilts. The 'Beltane Ring' formation is described, along with numerous other formations in the surrounding area. The article mentions the ease of finding information on new formations via the Internet. A pentagram formation of 200ft diameter at Dadford, North Bucks, is highlighted, noting its exceptional craftsmanship and a possible connection to the number '666' on the map reference point, suggesting it might be a 'Cosmic Joker' hoax.

A Trip to Rendlesham (Data Research 'Away Team'):

A group from CIUFOR joined a skywatch at Rendlesham Forest, Suffolk, the site of a famous 1980 UFO event. The area, formerly RAF Woodbridge and RAF Bentwaters, is described as atmospheric and having a history of pagan ritual. The team met with local researcher Brenda Butler, who showed them a site where a crater and missile-like object were allegedly found. The article notes discrepancies in accounts of the convoy's movement and the lack of fire from the crashed object.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained aerial phenomena, with a strong emphasis on eyewitness accounts and investigative reporting. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, questioning conventional explanations for events like meteor showers and crop circles, while also acknowledging the possibility of hoaxes. There is a clear focus on data collection and analysis, as evidenced by the questionnaire results and the call for reader assistance. The magazine also touches upon broader themes of paranormal activity, historical cases, and the challenges facing the ufology community, including financial sustainability and the impact of media hype.

This issue of Awareness magazine, dated Summer 1998 (Volume 23, Issue 3), delves into various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, with a strong focus on the Rendlesham Forest incident and the critical analysis of video evidence. It also includes astronomical notes, book reviews, and personal accounts from readers.

Rendlesham Forest: The Truth Behind the Myth

The lead article revisits the Rendlesham Forest incident, questioning the official explanations and highlighting discrepancies. It notes that three firemen were the only ones at the site on the first night, with no large military presence. The article suggests that the 'full light' of the Orford Ness lighthouse was not visible from the location, casting doubt on Ian Ridpath's explanation. It emphasizes that there were likely at least two nights of activity, with the first night involving a crash that possibly hit the runway end before coming to rest in the forest, seen by a gamekeeper. Subsequent nights reportedly involved aerial activity and helicopters. The article speculates on the nature of the crashed object, ruling out conventional cruise missiles due to the secrecy operation and suggesting it might have been an experimental, possibly nuclear-powered craft, drawing a parallel to the Cash/Landrum sighting.

It also describes a visit to the area, including an old brick-built bunker and a fenced-off pit used for burying deer carcasses. A skywatch event in a clear night yielded no UFOs, but occasional odd lights were seen, possibly from people frequenting the area. The experience included 'gunfire-like sounds' and a 'yomp' through the woods, suggesting paranormal or unexplained phenomena.

Brenda Butler is mentioned for providing insights into the reality behind the myths of the encounter. The article also notes that the 'Halt tape' recordings, if leaked, do not seem to represent actual recordings made in the woods due to a lack of background noise.

Video Footage - Proof of UFOs?

This section critically examines the use of camcorders and video footage in UFO research. The author, B.P. James, expresses alarm at the anomalous images produced by conventional objects when recorded by home video cameras. Examples are given of images of Jupiter appearing to have a 'Batman-like' shape with a propulsion trail, which are explained as artifacts of the camera's scanning system. The article warns about the difficulty of tracking fast-moving objects with auto-focus camcorders and advises using manual focus for clearer images. It also discusses a daylight flying triangle sighting in Boston, Lincs, which resulted in inconclusive footage due to the object appearing as an indistinct dark shape even at maximum zoom. The author shares his own experience of capturing a Boeing 737 flying out of Heathrow as a 'flying triangle' due to camera limitations. The article stresses the importance of being critical of video footage, including 'enhanced' or doctored material, and notes that as technology advances, it paradoxically casts more doubt on potential UFO evidence.

Astronomy Notes - Summer 1998

This section provides astronomical information for the summer of 1998. It details the visibility of planets like Jupiter, Saturn, Venus, and Mars in the early mornings and late evenings. It also describes the 'Summer Triangle' of stars (Vega, Deneb, Altair) and mentions other celestial objects and constellations visible during this period. A less well-known 'summer triangle' involving Arcturus, Seginus, and Alphecca is discussed, with a connection drawn to crop circle formations.

The section also covers meteor showers occurring during the summer, including the Ophiucids, Delta Aquarids, Capricornids, and Perseids, noting that a full moon might interfere with the Perseids. It mentions the anticipated spectacular Leonid shower in November due to Earth passing through the densest part of its debris. Information on moon phases and the potential 'doomsday scenario' of cometary impact, referencing Comet SOHO, is also included. The article touches upon the logistics of the upcoming solar eclipse in Cornwall and potential media 'negative publicity' regarding holiday bookings.

Letters to the Editor

Two letters are featured. James A. Hill recounts an experience in 1996 near Swindon where he witnessed a 747 jet being followed by a gold flying triangle, which closed the gap to a few hundred yards. The second letter, from an unnamed contributor, describes experiences similar to alien abductions, including feeling embraced by an invisible entity, hearing whispers, and floating. The writer notes that these experiences began after becoming interested in UFOs.

Book Reviews

THE THREAT by David M. Jacobs PhD.

Reviewed by Bill Foley, this book is described as a shocking revelation about the 'Alien Agenda.' Jacobs' analysis of hypnotic regression sessions suggests that alien abductions are part of an alien breeding program aimed at total control of the human race. The reviewer strongly recommends the book for leaders worldwide.

FACES OF THE VISITORS by Kevin Randle and Russ Estes.

Reviewed by Fran Copeland, this book is presented as a useful reference for those new to UFO cases, featuring illustrations and information on various UFO/Alien contact experiences. It covers different types of encounters, contactees, abductees, and includes a database of sightings. The review notes the book's coverage of cases like Lonnie Zamora and Roswell, as well as Billy Meier contacts.

UFO CRASH LANDING by Jenny Randles.

Reviewed by Michael Soper, this book is a new version of earlier material on the Rendlesham Affair. The review highlights the inclusion of 'Cold Witness,' a high-energy radar beam, and discusses the implications of American pulse repetition frequency. It also touches upon the possibility of satellite re-entry being confused with UFO events and the potential for radiation hazards. The reviewer notes the book introduces controversial issues and suggests the need for rapid response units in Britain to investigate such events.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Awareness magazine consistently explores the unexplained, with a critical yet open-minded approach. The Rendlesham incident is presented as a complex event with unanswered questions, challenging official narratives. The analysis of video footage underscores a theme of skepticism towards easily accepted evidence, emphasizing the need for rigorous examination. The inclusion of astronomical data and book reviews on abductions and alien agendas reflects a broad interest in the intersection of science, mystery, and the unknown. The editorial stance appears to encourage reader participation through letters and sharing of experiences, while also promoting in-depth research and critical thinking within the UFO community. There's a recurring emphasis on the sensitivity and potential cover-ups surrounding UFO phenomena, as suggested by the media's reluctance to report on certain sensitive information.