Bolide - Contributions 0021-0037

Magazine Overview

'BOLIDE' is a compilation of contributions, primarily focusing on reports of unexplained aerial phenomena, particularly UFOs and ball lightning, spanning a wide historical range from 1835 to 1986. The issue presents a collection of documented sightings, personal experiences, and investigative reports, drawing from various publications and official records.

Detailed Content

Observation of a Curious Electrical Phenomenon in Hawaii

This article, published in the *Monthly Weather Review* in April 1966, details an incident reported by Mrs. M., a resident of Honolulu, on September 22, 1965. Mrs. M. described witnessing a brilliant electric blue, plank-like object with black folds moving rapidly above her garden during a light thunderstorm. The object, estimated to be about 25 feet long and 2 feet wide at its end, appeared solid and dazzling but caused no heat. Investigators Saul Price and Edward M. Carlstead of the U.S. Weather Bureau visited Mrs. M. and confirmed the details of her account, finding no physical traces. Meteorological data from the time indicated thunderstorms in the area, which the authors note, while not explaining the phenomenon, provide corroborative timing and location.

Report on the Dartmoor Floating (or Balloon) Light

This section comprises a series of intelligence reports from December 1915 and April 1916 concerning a phenomenon observed in the Dartmoor area of the United Kingdom. Initially, Miss Cecilia Peel Yates reported seeing a bright light in the sky near Ashburton. Subsequent reports came from the Hexworthy Mine area, where Mrs. Cave-Penny and her daughter described a bright white light rising from near the mine, swinging across a valley, and disappearing. Further sightings were reported from Dartington Manor and Barton Pines. Lieutenant Colonel W. P. Drury and Lieutenant Brownlow investigated these reports, with Drury himself observing a similar phenomenon on September 4th, describing it as a bright white light ascending from a meadow and vanishing. The reports consistently described the light as being attached to a kite or balloon. Intelligence officers considered possibilities such as illicit signaling or captive balloons for wireless purposes. The reports also mention sightings of aeroplanes and airships in the same period.

'Seeing the Lights'

This is a personal account by Janet Newton Batchler, published in *Fate* magazine in August 1986, recalling an experience from September 1932. While traveling by train across the Mojave Desert, Batchler witnessed a tremendous lightning display. She described jagged streaks striking mountains and forming huge, glowing balls that bounced off at sharp angles and dissolved. These phenomena, described as leisurely and almost in slow motion, hovered above the mountains before disappearing. Batchler questions whether it was an optical effect, a result of power lines, or energy drawn from the storm.

Other Contributions

The issue lists numerous other contributions, each with a number, author(s), title, source publication, and year. These include:

• 0021: Price & Carlstead's observation of an electrical phenomenon in Hawaii (from *Monthly Weather Review*, April 1966).
• 0022: Documents concerning investigations of The Dartmoor Floating Light (1915).
• 0023: A personal experience from 1932 by Janet Newton Batchler (from *Fate*, August 1986).
• 0024: Elton Miles' account of The Marfa Lights (from *Tales of the Big Bend*, Texas A&M University Press, post-1974).
• 0025: Wirt Sikes' chapter on Corpse candles (from *British Goblins*, 1880).
• 0026: Finkelstein & Powell's report on Earthquake lightning (from *Nature*, 1970).
• 0027: Shinichiro Namiki's account of a Ghost light in Japan (1982).
• 0028: Ignis Fatuus, from *Kirby's Wonderful & Eccentric Museum* (1820).
• 0029: The lights of Changkat Asah (from Sir George Maxwell's *In Malay Forests*, events occurred 1895).
• 0030: Sindbad le Marin, from *Lumières dans la nuit* (LDLN) (January 1971).
• 0031: Jets scrambling over ping-pong UFOs (from *Daily Express*, May 1986).
• 0032: Phil Reeder's 'Will o' the Wisp' (from *Northern Earth Mysteries*, Spring 1986).
• 0033/0034: 'Un objet lumineux dans le ciel de Durtal' and 'Enquête à Bazouges-sur-loir' (from LDLN 99bis, May 1969).
• 0035: Garfield's 'When Citation Analysis strikes Ball Lightning' (from *Current Comments*, May 1976).
• 0036: 'La boule prend le train...en filature' (from LDLN 99 bis, May 1969).
• 0037: 'The Will o' Wisp' (from *The mirror of literature, amusement and instruction*, April 1835).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of 'BOLIDE' are the documentation and investigation of anomalous lights and electrical phenomena, including UFOs and ball lightning. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry, presenting eyewitness accounts and official reports for further study and interpretation, rather than offering definitive explanations. The inclusion of historical accounts alongside contemporary investigations suggests an interest in the long-term study of these phenomena and their potential connections across different eras and locations.

This issue of "Tales OF THE Big Bend" focuses on the enigmatic "Marfa Lights," a phenomenon that has captivated the region for decades. Authored by Elton Miles, the article compiles a vast array of legends, eyewitness accounts, and historical interpretations surrounding these mysterious lights.

The Marfa Lights: A Prolific Legend Hatchery

The article establishes the abandoned Marfa airport on Mitchell Flat as a primary location for observing the Marfa Lights. These lights are described as appearing in white, green, or blue hues, exhibiting behaviors such as appearing, disappearing, and moving diagonally or horizontally. The author himself has witnessed them, noting their ability to approach and linger near vehicles. Eyewitnesses like Hallie Stillwell compare them to a flickering headlight or a grass fire moving across the mountain. Early accounts date back to 1883, with settler Robert Ellison and his wife reporting a light they initially mistook for an Apache campfire.

Historical Interpretations and Folklore

Over time, the Marfa Lights have been attributed to various sources, reflecting the prevailing beliefs and anxieties of different eras. During World War II, pilots at the Marfa Army Airbase speculated they were lights used to guide German supply planes. Later, the lights were even associated with the ghost of Adolf Hitler hunting for his soldiers. Other legends link them to the spirits of Apache warriors, Pancho Villa's movements, or even German prisoners. The article highlights how the folk mind abhors a missing link, spawning legends that often disguise themselves as rumor.

Military and Scientific Investigations

The U.S. Army, intrigued by the persistent reports, conducted investigations. Several accounts describe military ventures involving jeeps and planes attempting to locate the source of the lights. These ventures often end with mysterious outcomes, such as jeeps being found with only one sock, passengers burned to death, or equipment destroyed. Some versions even mention scientists being involved and disappearing. Despite these efforts, the lights remained elusive. Scientific explanations have also been proposed, ranging from natural phenomena like mica, swamp gas, and static electricity to more speculative ideas like pockets in the air collecting light or reflections from celestial bodies.

Personal Anecdotes and Modern Tales

The article includes numerous personal anecdotes, such as that of James Mecklin, a retired postal worker who encountered a squadron commander interested in the lights. It also features the experiences of aviator Fritz Kahl, who chased the lights in an airplane multiple times during World War II. More recent stories involve young people seeking thrills, sometimes resulting in accidents or disappearances. One account describes a pilot who crashed while attempting to land on what he thought was a lighted runway, with the lights emanating from the dead pilot searching for his passengers.

Diverse Legends and Themes

The Marfa Lights are woven into a rich tapestry of local folklore, often connected to themes of treasure, lost souls, and supernatural guardians. Some legends posit the lights as spirits guarding buried treasure, while others see them as the ghosts of Indians, outlaws, or lawmen. There are also tales of lost lovers, wronged individuals seeking revenge, and even a pseudo-Indian legend about a princess searching for her lost brave. The article notes that many of these stories are passed down through oral tradition, with variations depending on the generation and cultural background.

Scientific Explanations and Ongoing Mystery

Despite numerous attempts to explain the Marfa Lights through scientific means, including expeditions involving advanced equipment, the mystery persists. The article lists a wide array of proposed scientific explanations, from geological gases and chemical reactions to atmospheric phenomena. However, the enduring appeal of the unknown continues to drive interest and speculation. The article concludes by acknowledging that the Marfa Lights remain a potent symbol of the unexplained in the Big Bend region.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the enduring mystery of the Marfa Lights, the power of folklore and legend in shaping local narratives, and the human fascination with the unexplained. The editorial stance appears to be one of diligent archival collection, presenting a comprehensive overview of the various stories and theories without definitively endorsing any single explanation. The focus is on documenting the phenomenon's rich history and cultural significance within the Big Bend area.

This document comprises several distinct sections, primarily focusing on folklore, supernatural phenomena, and a scientific article on earthquake lightning. The main content appears to be excerpts from a book titled 'British Goblins' by Wirt Sikes, published around 1880, and a scientific paper from 'Nature' in 1970, along with a report on a 'Ghost Light in Japan' from 1982.

Notes on Sources

The 'Notes on Sources' section provides bibliographical information for various historical accounts and studies. It references sources related to individuals like Horace Bell, Charley Brown, Dave Brown, Roger Butterfield, Joseph A. Anderson, William Carr, Marcus L. Webster, Samuel E. Chamberlain, and Marcus Long Webster, concerning a massacre they escaped in Los Angeles. It also details the sources for a chapter on 'Bobcat Carter,' including a paper by C. Ross Burns, the William A. Cooper, Jr. collection, and works by Virginia Madison and W. D. Smithers. The section on 'The Lost Haystack Mine' acknowledges friends who provided stories. For 'The Marfa Lights,' sources include Ferdinand Weber's account, Riley Aiken's 'More Chisos Ghosts,' Mody C. Boatright's 'Madstones and Twisters,' Marge Crumbaker's article in 'Texas Tempo,' Harry Wood's piece in the 'San Angelo Standard-Times,' and folklorist Joe Graham's collection. A 1971 'Saga' magazine article mentioning similar mystery lights in other parts of the country is also cited.

The Corpse Candle (Chapter IX from 'British Goblins')

This extensive section from Wirt Sikes' 'British Goblins' details the 'Canwyll Corph,' or Corpse Candle, a popular death-omen in Wales. The author describes it as a picturesque and widely believed superstition. The Corpse Candle can appear as a stately, unsupported flambeau with a ghastly blue flame, or as a plain tallow candle held by a ghost. The ghost is often recognized as belonging to someone who is about to die. Variations include the light issuing from a person's mouth or nostrils. The size of the candle is said to indicate the age of the person to die, with larger candles for adults and smaller ones for children or infants. If two candles appear, one large and one small, it signifies the death of a mother and child. A white flame indicates a woman's death, and a red flame, a man's.

Several accounts are recounted:

• Caerau, Wales: A Welshwoman tells of her sister's illness, during which a 'swish' like rustling grave-clothes occurred, and her candle was blown out. A ghost, identified as 'old John Richards' (dead for ten years), appeared holding a Corpse Candle. The sister died the next day.
• Caerau, Wales: Another account describes a Corpse Candle appearing at the foot of the bed of a dying woman. When the narrator tried to grasp it, it went out in a shower of sparkles, and the woman expired.
• Thomas Mathews: This individual saw a Corpse Candle emerge from his father's mouth, move around, and then blend with his body. His father died soon after.
• William John, blacksmith of Lanboydi: He encountered a Corpse Candle, saw a corpse on a bier, and was struck down, remaining insensible for a long time and ill for weeks. The woman whose corpse he saw died and was buried later.
• Carmarthenshire: A clergyman's son saw a light issue from a servant's nostrils, which became a Corpse Candle. He followed it to a foot-bridge, where it hesitated to cross. When he replaced the bridge, the candle struck him, leaving him senseless. The servant died.
• Golden Grove, Wales: Three Corpse Candles were seen gliding down a stream. Passengers who later crossed the river in a coracle were drowned.

The origin of these portents is attributed to St. David, who prayed for signs of the immortality of the soul. The author notes that while some dismiss these as superstition, the vividness of Welsh imagination contributes to their picturesque nature.

Earthquake Lightning

This scientific article, published in 'Nature' in 1970, proposes that earthquakes can be accompanied by ball lightning, stroke lightning, and sheet lightning. The authors suggest a 'seismoelectric effect' where seismic strains in the Earth's crust, particularly from quartz, generate electric fields. They estimate that the generated voltage can be comparable to that responsible for lightning in storms. The article discusses the piezoelectric effect in quartz and the potential for field measurements to detect ground voltage differences during earthquakes. It also predicts very low-frequency electromagnetic radiation from seismoelectric waves and suggests that electrical precursors to earthquakes might be observed, potentially aiding in prediction, referencing a tradition in Japan of predicting earthquakes from unusual clear-sky lightning.

Ghost Light in Japan

This report details an observation of a 'ghost light' on Mt. Senohara in Yamagata Prefecture, Japan, on July 31, 1982. Ms. Yoko Yarimizu reported seeing a fire-like phenomenon, which then disappeared. Later, an orange luminous body, described as large as a first-magnitude star, appeared. This was followed by the appearance of two luminous bodies, one orange and one light blue, moving horizontally. The phenomenon repeated several times, with the number of luminous bodies varying. Pressmen and cameramen were notified. At about 9:30 p.m., a bluish ghost light appeared, followed by a blue gleam running across the sky. The event lasted for about two hours under cloudy conditions with a gentle wind and a moon age of 12.

Ignis Fatuus

This excerpt from 'Kirby's Wonderful and Eccentric Museum' (1820) defines 'Ignis Fatuus,' commonly called Will-o'-the-Wisp or Jack-o'-Lantern. It states that these meteors are a real exhalation from the earth, consisting of vaporous gas or a weaker substance combined with light and heat.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this document are the exploration of folklore, supernatural phenomena, and unexplained lights, alongside a scientific inquiry into potential causes. The 'British Goblins' section leans heavily into traditional beliefs and anecdotal evidence, presenting them as fascinating cultural narratives. The 'Marfa Lights' and 'Ghost Light in Japan' sections continue this theme of unexplained aerial phenomena, detailing eyewitness accounts. In contrast, the 'Earthquake Lightning' article offers a scientific perspective, attempting to explain certain luminous events through geophysical processes. The overall stance appears to be one of documenting and investigating both the folkloric and the potentially scientific aspects of these mysteries, acknowledging the human fascination with the unknown and the marvelous.

This document is an excerpt from 'KIRBY'S WONDERFUL MUSEUM', focusing on the phenomenon of 'IGNIS FATUUS'. The content spans pages 264 to 268 and includes discussions on the nature, causes, and observations of these mysterious lights.

Ignis Fatuus: Nature and Observations

The article begins by describing Ignis Fatuus as luminous exhalations composed of rare and subtle matter, often generated in low marshy plains but occasionally seen on mountainous tracts. The Editor notes personal sightings on Dartmoor and Exmoor in England, and on a mountain in Scotland. These lights are attributed to the superstitions of the weak-minded, who might be led into dangerous bogs. A poetic allusion from Goldsmith's 'The Hermit' is quoted, warning against the 'dangerous gloom' and the 'faithless phantom' that lures one to doom.

Commonly known as Ignes Fatui or Mock Fires, they are also called Will-o'-the-Wisps, Jack-o'-Lanterns, Mariners' Lights, or St. Helmo's Fires when seen at sea. The article laments that despite the efforts of naturalists and philosophers, no definitive explanation has been reached, and expresses astonishment that early philosophers sought documentation from Italy when the phenomenon could be observed locally.

Historical Theories and Opinions

Several historical opinions from the 'Philosophical Transactions' are presented. The Rev. Mr. Dereham and Sir Thomas Dereham are mentioned as successful describers. Mr. F. Willoughby and Mr. Ray suggest they are merely the shining of male glow-worms. Others contend they are the 'pyraustæ,' a species of fly numerous in Italy during June and July. Sir T. Dereham identifies these as 'lucciole' (small lights), distinguishing them from 'farfalls' (butterflies) as Mr. Ray thought.

Reverend Mr. Dereham, however, believes insects are not involved. He recounts an observation in a valley between rocky hills with boggy ground, where an ignis fatuus was seen frisking about a dead thistle. He describes it as a complete body of light, not divisible, suggesting it was a 'fire-vapour' rather than insects. While acknowledging that male glow-worms emit light to attract females, he notes they are not seen in such large numbers as to create a light comparable to an ignis fatuus.

Communications from Italy describe these lights as common in the plains of Bologna, called 'cularsi.' They are most frequent in watery and marshy ground, sometimes emitting light as strong as a torch, and others no larger than a common candle. They resemble flames in color and light, reflecting on surrounding objects, and are in constant, varied motion.

Detailed Observations and Characteristics

Observations detail the varied motion of these lights: rising, sinking, disappearing and reappearing, hovering about six feet from the ground. They can spread wide, contract, split into two, then merge into one, or float like waves, dropping sparks. They are noted as more frequent in winter than summer, and brighter in wet weather. Despite their appearance, they are not observed to set anything on fire.

M. Beccari observed these lights frequently near rivers and brooks. An intelligent gentleman reported seeing a strong light by a river near Bologna, appearing as a parallelopiped about two feet above stones, with its longest side parallel to the horizon. Its light was strong enough to illuminate a hedge and the river water. Upon closer examination, the light changed from bright red to yellowish, then to pale as the observer approached, vanishing when at the place itself. It reappeared and grew brighter as the observer moved away. No smell or mark of actual fire was perceived.

Another gentleman confirmed seeing similar lights five or six times in spring and autumn, always in the same shape and place. One instance involved the light emerging from a field and settling in the same spot.

Dr. St. Clair speaks of a similar flame, noting that corn grows near it, conjecturing it arises from a vein of bitumen or naphtha.

Modern Scientific Explanations

The learned opinion of the present day suggests these meteors originate from light exhaled by the decomposition of animal and vegetable matter, amplified by atmospheric vapour in moist, swampy lowlands. This decomposition process is favored by the moisture and swampiness of these areas.

This theory accounts for meteors that show no sensible heat. However, it is acknowledged that some phenomena have evinced a greater or lesser degree of heat, indicating slow combustion. These lights have also been observed to extend more widely than local decomposition would suggest and have appeared to change location rapidly.

A modern philosopher suggests that the earth perpetually exhales inflammable gases like hydrogen, phosphorus, and carbonic acid, along with sulphureous vapours, particularly in low, stagnant marsh grounds. These gases, though not spontaneously inflammable, can be ignited by various natural causes, such as electricity or heat generated during decomposition, which can be sufficient to ignite haystacks.

Once ignited, the inflammable vapour burns as long as its principle remains. Its intensity varies, producing light with little or no heat, or a slow combustion like a dunghill, or palpable, rapid flame. The levity of the burning vapour causes it to change place according to air currents, appearing to move upwards, downwards, right, and left, advancing and receding, and seeming to dance before the spectator. Its dimensions and colors vary with the density of the fog or haze and its own bulk.

The Lights of Changkat Asah

The article then shifts to a personal account of witnessing lights in Changkat Asah, Malaysia, in 1895. The author, stationed as a magistrate in Tanjong Malim, describes the area and a prominent hill named Changkat Asah, which was considered a dwelling place for spirits and was feared by the Malays.

The Baginda Sutan Incident

An anecdote is shared about Baginda Sutan, a foreigner contracted to clear the summit of Changkat Asah for a Trigonometrical Survey station. He faced extreme difficulty in finding Malays willing to work there due to local superstitions. To shame them, he decided to stay on the hill alone. The next day, his men found him in a state of absolute idiocy, having apparently been driven mad by his experience. The contract terminated abruptly.

Officer B.'s Tiger Encounter

Subsequently, an officer named B. was sent to erect a station on Changkat Asah. He employed Javanese coolies and initially lived with the author. After setting up temporary shelters on the hill, he moved into his own shanty. One night, he was awakened by an animal breathing outside his house. Initially thinking it was wild pigs, he went back to sleep. The next morning, his coolies pointed out tiger tracks around his shanty. That night, B. awoke to find a tiger just outside his house, its head near his mattress. He was terrified and dared not rush for the door. He shouted for his Chinese servant to bring a lamp, but the servant, hearing about the tiger, refused to move. B. lay motionless, feeling defenseless. The tiger remained outside, its presence indicated by sniffing and occasional growls. B. tried to scare it away by shouting, but the tiger seemed to gain encouragement. He attempted to rush out twice but was warned back by a growl. He was trapped all night, the tiger eventually leaving at daybreak. The author notes that B.'s escape was likely due to the tiger not perceiving the flimsy house as a trap.

The Author's Observation of Lights

Following B.'s story, the author decided to spend a night on the hill with him. They tied up a goat outside B.'s house as bait. The author was struck by the tiger's tracks, showing it had walked and lain beside the house, with its front paws within two feet of B.'s bed.

Suddenly, the author saw two lights far up the Bernam valley, moving rapidly towards the village. Initially thinking they were Chinese miners, they soon realized the lights flew upwards and rushed directly at them with terrifying speed, passing within fifty feet. The author describes being frightened, gasping, and needing support. They concluded these were natural phenomena, possibly chemical gases or electric fluids, like Will-o'-the-wisp or St. Elmo's light.

More lights appeared, drifting from both sides of the valley towards the riverbank, where they were caught by the wind and whirled in all directions. Over a hundred lights were eventually seen. The wind caused them to fly together, play around each other, and then be swept away. In calm conditions, several lights would rise and dance. They were observed to move upwards, downwards, and sideways, tapering to a pear-shape, which the author attributed to air pressure. The author realized these were the 'spooks' known as Penanggal in Malay folklore – a spirit whose head detaches at night to suck the blood of men.

Interpretation and Conclusion

The district headman, Haji Mustapha, confirmed they were Penanggal, noting the direction from which the lights came was from their old burial ground. The author questions whether these lights were marsh gas or St. Elmo's lights. He notes that St. Elmo's lights are usually stationary and associated with atmospheric electrical disturbances, whereas these lights moved with the wind on a clear night. He concludes he cannot definitively say what they were, but acknowledges a parallel between the superstition of British sailors (corpo santo) and the Malay belief in Penanggal.

Neither the author nor Officer B. saw the lights again, though B. reported the tiger roaring near his camp on other nights. The author mentions that no other European he knows has seen these Penanggal, but Malays have reported seeing them, and the people of Tanjong Malim agreed that these were the lights occasionally seen from the village.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this document are the mystery and varied interpretations of natural phenomena, particularly luminous atmospheric lights. The editorial stance appears to be one of scientific curiosity tempered with an acknowledgment of folklore and superstition. The magazine presents historical theories, scientific explanations, and personal accounts, leaving the ultimate cause of Ignis Fatuus open to interpretation. There is a clear interest in documenting unusual occurrences and exploring the intersection of natural science and local beliefs, as exemplified by the detailed accounts from Malaysia and the comparison with European folklore. The inclusion of the tiger encounter adds a layer of danger and human drama to the narrative of the Changkat Asah experience.

Title: LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT

Issue: N° 5, 14° Année

Date: January 1971

Publisher: CONTACT LECTEURS

Cover Headline: MYSTÉRIEUX OBJETS CÉLESTES

This issue of "Lumières Dans La Nuit" focuses on mysterious celestial objects and phenomena, featuring witness testimonies and explorations of unexplained lights.

Sindbad le Marin: Fisherman's Accounts

The magazine presents four accounts from fishermen, collected by M. Sibenaler, detailing encounters with unusual aerial and aquatic phenomena. These accounts, presented under the pseudonym "Sindbad le Marin," are offered with the caveat that the witnesses requested anonymity but revealed their identities to the investigators.

First Fisherman's Account (1968)

Two years prior, in April 1968, three fishermen witnessed a strange, oval-shaped object appear in the sky during a storm. It was described as a bright, stationary object that changed color to a pinkish hue. It slowly descended and changed shape from oval to horizontal before disappearing into the water. The observation lasted 25 minutes, with no sound or trace.

Second Fisherman's Account (June 1958)

On June 12, 1958, three fishermen observed a large, orange-red point in the sky that rapidly descended towards the sea, becoming a large, rotating ball that hovered near the water. The object caused air displacement and emitted strong heat. It moved by rolling along the waves and came close to their boat, causing large waves. A faint humming sound was heard. The object's diameter was estimated to be about 4 meters. It moved in bounds, sometimes partially submerged in waves, and then disappeared at high speed.

Third Fisherman's Account (August 1962)

On the evening of August 15, 1962, a fisherman and his two companions were at sea. The fisherman observed a large, metallic, elongated body with a chimney-like structure on the water's surface. He initially mistook it for a submarine. He then saw figures in diving suits emerge and board the object. After attempts to communicate failed, the object rose completely out of the water, emitted colored lights and a white beam, rotated, and then ascended rapidly, changing color to a fiery red before disappearing as a small red point among the stars. The entire event was silent.

Fourth Fisherman's Account (September 1965)

On September 10, 1965, a lone fisherman saw a large, red light form rapidly above the sea, which he initially thought was a burning boat. The light changed color through orange, green, and blue, then back to red. It then separated into parts, faded, and disappeared without any sound. The observation lasted about 15 minutes.

Foreign News: Jets Scramble Over Ping-Pong UFOs (Brazil, May 1966)

This section reprints a report from the Daily Express dated Friday, May 23, 1966, detailing an incident in Brazil. On May 23, 1966, Brazilian fighter planes, including French-made Mirages and U.S. F-5s, were scrambled to chase unidentified flying objects (UFOs) described as multi-colored and the size of ping-pong balls. These objects appeared on radar screens at the Air Space Defense Center and were interfering with air traffic. Pilots reported the objects traveling at 840 mph alongside the aircraft. The jets pursued the objects for three hours but had to turn back due to running out of fuel. Air Force Minister Otavio Moreira Lima stated that an explanation could not be provided.

Will o' the Wisp (APT to Lead Researchers Astray)

This extensive article by Phil Reeder explores the phenomenon of 'Will o' the Wisp', also known as 'Ignis Fatuus'.

Origins and Descriptions

The author recounts overhearing country women casually discussing 'Will o' the Wisps' playing in fields, highlighting the common acceptance of the phenomenon. Dictionary definitions describe it as a light seen over marshes, often attributed to the spontaneous combustion of decomposed organic matter, and known to mislead travellers. Accounts vary widely, leading some to suggest fabrication or hallucination, but Reeder argues for the existence of distinct phenomena.

Chambers' Encyclopaedia describes 'Ignis Fatuus' as a luminous appearance seen on still nights over marshy ground or in graveyards, occurring irregularly. It is described as a flame, usually low to the ground, sometimes blue, and can appear singly or repeatedly. Early accounts include Hentzner's 1598 report of 'Jack-wi-a-Lanthorns'.

Scientific Explanations and Theories

Reeder discusses potential scientific explanations, including the spontaneous combustion of marsh gas (methane) possibly triggered by hydrogen phosphide. He notes that while methane combustion can produce a flame, the observed characteristics of 'Will o' the Wisps' (silent, steady flames, movement against winds) don't always align. The article also touches upon the possibility of cool flames and glows, which are feeble light sources.

An account from D. MacManus describes a man encountering a 'Will o' the Wisp' that appeared to have intelligence, changing direction and speed to follow him. The article also considers the possibility that the light is produced by Glow Worms, which can emit light and move in ways that mimic 'Will o' the Wisps'.

Ball Lightning and Earth Lights

The phenomenon of Ball Lightning is discussed as sharing attributes with 'Will o' the Wisp', including its occurrence during thunderstorms, varied colors, and sometimes erratic movement. The article also mentions 'Earth Lights', proposed by Devereux, as lights seen near geological faults.

Supernatural and Psychological Interpretations

Folklore often associates 'Will o' the Wisps' with supernatural origins, such as fairies or spirits of the dead. Names like 'Elf Fire' and 'Jack o' Lantern' suggest elemental connections. The article notes that the practice of carving Jack o' Lanterns for Halloween might stem from a belief in the light as a spirit. It also explores the idea that 'Will o' the Wisps' might be manipulated by an intelligence, or that the phenomenon could be a quasi-hallucinatory experience induced by electromagnetic fields, influenced by the observer's beliefs.

Conclusion on Will o' the Wisp

Reeder concludes that while some theories offer partial explanations, none fully model the observed phenomena. He expresses doubt about methane combustion being the sole cause and finds the possibility of intelligence intriguing, but acknowledges the evidence is circumstantial. The true nature of these lights remains a mystery.

Durtal, France: A Luminous Object Sighting (January 1969)

This section details an investigation by M. Sibenaler into a sighting near Durtal, France, on January 6, 1969. The report is based on the testimony of M. and Mme Paul Vaidie, and later corroborated by the Dupin family.

The Vaidie Account

M. and Mme Vaidie, returning home around 8:15 PM, observed a large, dark red, non-luminous ball, described as twice the size of a football, hovering in the sky to the left of the road. They noted it was a distinct circle without "smudges." They continued home, and M. Vaidie alerted their neighbors, the Dupins.

The Dupin Account

Mme Dupin, the gatekeeper, along with her husband and three children, also witnessed the object. They described it as a red ball, larger than a full moon when it rises, with dark horizontal bars that widened, causing the entire ball to become black and disappear. The object was seen between poplars and appeared to be about a kilometer away. It did not move from its place but seemed to sway slightly. The observation lasted approximately 7 to 8 minutes, with no sound heard.

Analysis and Commentary

M. Sibenaler notes that this sighting involved nine witnesses and occurred near Doué-la-Fontaine, another location with multiple witness reports. He attempts to demystify the phenomenon by consulting specialists regarding the position of the moon, as the date and time were precise. The specialists indicated that the moon was visible in the direction of the sighting and appeared larger and redder than usual, especially at its rising. However, Sibenaler points out that the object was described as having dark bars and was not luminous like the moon, suggesting it was not the moon. He also notes that the phenomenon in Durtal and another sighting in Bazouges occurred in the same geographical zone.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained aerial phenomena, presenting witness testimonies alongside attempts at scientific and folkloric explanations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting evidence and theories without definitive conclusions, often highlighting the mysterious nature of the events. The recurring theme is the exploration of lights and objects in the sky, from marsh phenomena to alleged extraterrestrial craft, emphasizing the need for continued investigation and the lack of definitive answers.

Title: Lumières Dans La Nuit
Issue: n°99bis
Date: Mai 1969

This issue of "Lumières Dans La Nuit" focuses on reports and scientific discussions surrounding luminous aerial phenomena, particularly "ball lightning."

Eyewitness Accounts from France

Bazouges-sur-Loir Sighting (January 14-15, 1969)

The article details an encounter by M. Naviaux, a restaurant owner in Bazouges-sur-Loir, with a luminous object. On January 14th, around 7:30 PM, he noticed an unusual red-orange light on a corridor wall, originating from the courtyard. Investigating, he saw a luminous red-orange sphere, described as football-sized, reflecting in a water puddle. He noted it had a bright glow that seemed to overflow the object, and that a cloud-like formation in front of it amplified its surface area. The object moved slowly and deliberately, appearing to hover and then move across the sky for about fifteen minutes before disappearing. M. Naviaux, his wife, and two kitchen employees all witnessed this. The object reappeared around 8:45 PM in the same location and at the same height, larger and brighter, eventually turning a blinding white with distinct luminous rays. This phase lasted about forty-five minutes. It then returned to red, diminished in size over five minutes, appearing to head towards Durtal, shrinking to the size of a cigarette light before vanishing.

On January 15th, around 6:30 PM, M. Naviaux observed a brilliant, non-scintillating disk, the size of a "sous-tasse" (saucer), stationary in the sky. It remained visible until around 7:30 PM.

During these observations, the sky was clear and starry, with the stars appearing brighter than usual. No particular noise was heard, and no change was noted in the functioning of watches. A compass check on the route between Gouis and Bazouges showed no variation.

Train-Following Ball (December 16, 1969)

An article by M. Jourdren describes an event on the evening of December 16, 1969, when a train departed from Saint-Brieuc for Rennes. Near Yffignac, a traveler named M. Nodier spotted a dazzling white luminous ball to the right of the train. The object appeared to perfectly match the train's speed, leading him to initially believe it was a reflection. Upon lowering the window, he and other passengers confirmed the presence of a large, bright object. Described as having sharp contours, it was estimated to be "very large" based on other testimonies. The object's movements were described as lively and fluid, but its speed was inconsistent. It would hover over or avoid populated areas, then catch up to the train. The object could apparently slow down instantly or accelerate, keeping pace with the train traveling at 140 km/h. This observation was corroborated by witnesses living near Rennes.

In Rennes, the object disappeared from the travelers' view but was seen by people near the railway line. These witnesses reported the object's diameter to be between 8 and 10 meters, moving at an estimated 200 meters from the train. No noise was perceived, and the light was so intense that no details could be discerned. It seemed to avoid city lights.

At Lamballe, the ball stopped simultaneously with the train. It disappeared around 8:40 PM into low-lying clouds. The article notes the passengers' conversations were lively, and humorously links this to the recent Apollo 8 mission, where "fireflies" (M.D.F.) were shown above the Earth's clouds. The author questions whether these "fireflies" or "M.O.C." (perhaps referring to unidentified aerial objects) have a clear scientific explanation, especially when one appears to follow a train.

Scientific Discussion and Historical Context

Current Comments: Ball Lightning

This section, attributed to Eugene Garfield, President of the Institute for Scientific Information, discusses the phenomenon of ball lightning. It notes that while thunder is impressive, lightning is the more active force. The article debunks the myth that lightning never strikes twice in the same place. It explains ordinary streak lightning as a high-voltage electrical discharge but highlights ball lightning as the most mysterious form, which scientists have historically debated and often dismissed as hallucination or illusion.

Historical reports of ball lightning are cited, including an 1885 account by Captain Waters of a "mass of fire" over a vessel, and a 1930 report in Nature of "globes of light" rising and falling.

Theories and Research

• The article explores various theories for ball lightning:
• Combustion of material: Early explanations suggested it formed from material released by lightning strikes.
• Optical Illusion: Some researchers, like E. Argyle, proposed it was an optical illusion, similar to afterimages.
• Antimatter Meteorites: D.E.T.F. Ashby and C. Whitehead suggested that antimatter meteorites colliding with normal matter could create luminous balls. This was supported by observations of unusual radiation events.
• Nuclear Phenomenon: M.D. Altschuler and colleagues suggested it might involve the production of radioactive products.
• Plasma Phenomenon: W. F. Smith and others proposed it consists of dense plasma with free electrons and positive ions.
• Vortex Theory: Edward Hill suggested a vortex could confine material released by a lightning stroke.
• Standing Wave System: Russian physicist Peter Kapitsa proposed it results from a standing wave in the electromagnetic field accompanying thunderstorms.

The article mentions specific incidents like Jennison's report of a lightning ball in an aircraft and Covington's observations of a ball demolishing a wharf and emerging from a fireplace. It also touches upon the connection to UFO sightings, as explained in the Condon UFO report.

Challenges in Research

Despite numerous reports over centuries, the scientific understanding of ball lightning remains confused. It is unclear if it's a single phenomenon or multiple types. Producing ball lightning in a laboratory has been unsuccessful. The article notes that progress is hindered by the lack of precise observational data and the tendency for reports to be dismissed or classified. It calls for better cooperation between scientists and the public to collect reliable data.

Bibliography

The issue includes an extensive bibliography of ball lightning reports, compiled by J.D. Barry of the US Air Force, and references a book by Stanley Singer, "The Nature of Ball Lightning." The bibliography lists over 1,100 reports spanning 350 years.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently presents eyewitness accounts of unusual aerial phenomena, framing them as subjects worthy of investigation. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards these phenomena, encouraging scientific inquiry while acknowledging the challenges posed by anecdotal evidence and the lack of definitive explanations. The inclusion of scientific discussions and historical research suggests an effort to bridge the gap between popular reports and scientific understanding. The recurring theme is the persistent mystery of ball lightning and its potential connections to other unexplained aerial events, including UFOs.

Title: THE MIRROR OF AMUSEMENT AND INSTRUCTION
Issue: Vol. 25, p. 233-234
Date: 11 April 1835

The Will o' Wisp

This section presents an original description of the phenomenon known as the Will o' Wisp, or ignis fatuus, as reported by a clergyman and active observer of nature. The account, which first appeared in the Shrewsbury Chronicle, highlights the enduring mystery surrounding this natural phenomenon, noting that it has existed for thousands of years and has been observed in circumstances favorable to detailed study, yet no naturalist has definitively explained its substance, organization, or powers.

The article recounts a specific observation made by a gentleman from Shropshire, whose veracity is deemed beyond suspicion. While viewing the phenomenon through a spy-glass, he discovered in its blazing sphere the lineaments of the human form. The author of the piece questions whether such features could be discerned with the naked eye.

An opportunity for personal observation arose when an ignis fatuus gradually approached the author. Initially, its front exhibited a circular surface of white, silvery light, appearing flat or with very slight convexity, lacking any perceptible trace of constituent members or component parts. At the precise moment it passed the observer's eye, it was barely visible, appearing as little more than a thin verge or narrow ring. Shortly thereafter, the complete circle of its rear became visible, as brilliant as its front.

Distinctly marked on the rear were two wings, described as resembling beautiful silken webs of the clearest transparency. These wings were fixed in a perpendicular position, each extending two inches in length and one in breadth. They covered the entire posterior disk, except for a small triangular space and its crest, on the lower corner of which the observer surmised the head, though imperceptible, reposed.

The wings were observed to be in constant, easy action, propelling the body on a principle entirely different from that seen in any species of birds. Their movements were perpendicular, alternately receding and closing on the surface. The author posits that by their retrogressive impulse on the atmosphere, they preserved the continuity of its flight.

Based on these observations, the author concludes that this singular 'animal' subsists upon flies, which are attracted to it by its luminous appearance.

The article is signed "W. G. C."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "The Mirror of Amusement and Instruction" appears to focus on intriguing natural phenomena and unexplained occurrences, presenting them through detailed eyewitness accounts. The editorial stance seems to be one of curiosity and a desire to document such events, leaving the interpretation and scientific explanation to the reader or future research. The presentation of the Will o' Wisp as a mysterious, potentially 'animal' entity reflects a common interest in the unknown and the unexplained during the early 19th century.