JTAP - Vol 3 No 2 - April 1984

Magazine Overview

Title: The Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena
Issue: Vol. 3, No. 2
Date: April, 1984
Publisher: The British Unidentified Flying Object Research Association Ltd.
Country: United Kingdom
ISSN: 0143-8840
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of The Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena is devoted to the scientific study of unusual aerial phenomena. It features a prominent article by Ali F. Abutaha, a Senior Consultant in communication satellite systems, presenting a hypothesis on the possible existence of life on the Sun and other stars.

Article: SOLAR AND EXTRASOLAR LIFE - A NEW HYPOTHESIS

Ali F. Abutaha's article, presented at BUFORA's 3rd International Congress in August 1983, posits that the existence of life on the Sun and other stars is a rational consequence of current scientific knowledge, challenging conventional understanding. The hypothesis is based on a lengthy study of diverse subjects and suggests that life's development and evolution are likely cosmic occurrences, potentially based on neutral elements of matter.

1. Hypothesis

The author proposes three main points:
1. The development and evolution of life on our star (the Sun) and other stars are likely cosmic occurrences.
2. This solar and extrasolar life could be based on neutral elements of matter, similar to terrestrial life.
3. The possible existence of such life can be substantiated by current scientific laws and knowledge.

Abutaha acknowledges that the Sun's high temperatures (corona and core reaching 1 and 15 million degrees, respectively, with a minimum of 4,000 Kelvin) seem inhospitable. However, he suggests that under prevailing solar conditions, a new perspective emerges, making the Sun and some stars potential abodes for life.

1.1. Corollary

Abutaha introduces the concept of a "Cosmic Life Line," a three-dimensional surface (pressure, temperature, density) representing states of equilibrium. He suggests that similar, though not identical, states of equilibrium to those conducive to life on Earth can exist on the Sun and other celestial bodies. This Cosmic Life Line could be used to predict potential abodes of life in the universe.

Substantiating this hypothesis requires either the discovery of new scientific laws or fitting the proposed life into existing, verified laws. Abutaha asserts that careful study leads him to believe the latter is possible, and what might seem like wild imagination is, in fact, a rational consequence of current knowledge.

2. Historic Note

The idea of the Sun being inhabited is not new, with historical and mythological accounts existing. However, modern science has largely dismissed such notions. The article references Sir William Herschel, a prominent astronomer, who believed the Sun was inhabited by beings adapted to its peculiar circumstances. Herschel's views were based on his observations, including sunspots, and the prevailing scientific ideas of his time, though they were not widely shared.

The modern solar research era, beginning with George Ellery Hale, has provided a more detailed understanding of the Sun. While solar temperatures were found to be too high for known life forms, advancements in life sciences have led to serious scientific consideration of extraterrestrial life, exemplified by programs like SETI and CETI. Despite the rarity of considering stellar life, some thinkers, like Dr. Isaac Asimov, have speculated about rapid, ephemeral life forms existing on the Sun.

Abutaha finds Asimov's speculation more logically grounded in current knowledge, particularly the possibility of plasma-based life, though this would require new discoveries in plasma physics, chemistry, and biology. The basic problem with sub-particles (mesons) as 'hooks' for molecule formation is their short lifespan and instability.

3. On the Development and Evolution of Animate and Inanimate Matter

The article discusses the concept of life evolving from simple chemical mixtures, a return to the idea of spontaneous generation. It notes that the threshold from inanimate to animate matter is not fully understood, but the prevailing view is that life originated from non-living matter, a concept widely accepted by NASA study groups.

Modern science and technology have led to a new understanding of the universe and a unified cosmic evolutionary process. The evolution of life on Earth is traced from simple organic molecules to complex living structures, all composed of basic elements like hydrogen, carbon, oxygen, and nitrogen. Experiments by Miller and Urey in the 1950s synthesized these building blocks from simpler elements. The article emphasizes that atoms are the basic blocks of life, and their development from hydrogen through nuclear fusion in stars is a unified cosmic process.

While there are gaps in understanding the evolutionary sequence from hydrogen to complex life, a broad picture is emerging. The development of life on Earth is seen as a process that, while seemingly random, has underlying order. The elements of matter, considered the 'seeds of life,' originate in stars and galaxies, with Earth itself originating from the Sun. This shared cosmic origin is supported by spectral analysis and studies of matter across the universe.

4. The Irreducible Requirements for the Initiation of Life

• Abutaha outlines the irreducible requirements for the initiation of terrestrial life, which likely apply to other life forms in the universe as well. These include:
• Organic compounds (or, more fundamentally, the elements of matter: hydrogen, oxygen, carbon, nitrogen, and others).
• A source of energy (primarily solar radiation).
• A free liquid, preferably water.
• Time.

The article highlights the importance of water as a medium for life formation, noting that exobiologists are increasingly disenchanted with ammonia and silicon chemistries, suggesting water-based life is likely the most common, if not the only, naturally occurring form.

Water on the Sun would require hydrogen and oxygen atoms, reduced thermal agitation to allow electron retention, and the formation of water molecules. The article posits that preserving water on the Sun could lead to a truly universal biology.

It is argued that when matter, energy, and water combine in the right proportions and environment, simple molecules, life-building-blocks, acids, and proteins can form. Mutation and growth then occur under the influence of energy and radiation, leading to evolutionary processes.

5. The Sun

This section presents general data and parameters of the Sun based on modern science and technology, without attempting to reconstruct existing solar models to fit the hypothesis. It describes the Sun as an ordinary star orbiting the Milky Way Galaxy. The Hale Mount Wilson Observatory era, quantum mechanics, relativistic mechanics, and space exploration have contributed to our current model of the Sun.

Key discoveries include intense magnetic fields associated with sunspots, temperature distributions in the corona, chromosphere, and photosphere, and the abundance of elements. The interior of the Sun is understood to be powered by nuclear fusion processes in its core, producing gamma rays. NASA's Sky Lab mission provided significant data and observations of the Sun's atmosphere.

The article includes a table of "SOLAR PARAMETERS" detailing the Sun's age, distance from Earth, diameter, volume, mass, gravity, density, atmosphere, magnetic field, sunspots, temperature (interior, surface, sunspot umbra, penumbra, chromosphere, corona), and a diagram of a modern-day model of the Sun.

The model divides the Sun into inner regions (Core, Intermediate interior/radiative zone, Convection zone) and outer layers (Photosphere, Chromosphere, Corona). The inner core and intermediate regions are described as extremely dense and hot, while the solar atmosphere is rarified. The core is where hydrogen fuses into helium, producing gamma rays. The solar atmosphere is hot and highly ionized, making it a suspect for neutral-atom-based life.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the exploration of unconventional scientific hypotheses, specifically the possibility of life beyond Earth, extending to stellar environments. The journal's stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unusual phenomena, encouraging contributions from various sources and presenting them for scientific consideration, while clarifying that the views expressed by contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the Editorial Board. The publication emphasizes the scientific study of unusual aerial phenomena.

This issue of THE JOURNAL OF TRANSIENT AERIAL PHENOMENA, dated April 1984, delves into scientific and investigative topics related to the Sun and UFO phenomena. It features articles on solar physics, the psychology of UFO witnesses, and critiques of UFO research methodologies. The issue also includes announcements regarding a BUFORA meeting and investigator training.

Solar Physics and the Possibility of Solar Life

The first article discusses the Sun's energy transport, starting from the core where temperatures reach approximately 15 million degrees. Energy is transported outward through radiation and then convection. The convection zone is characterized by expanding, rising parcels of heated matter. The photosphere, the visible surface, is the top layer of this convection zone. A surprising phenomenon occurs in the photosphere: the temperature reaches a minimum of about 6000K and then increases outward to a coronal value of approximately one million degrees. This temperature gradient has significant consequences, including the capture of free electrons into bound energy states by hydrogen and other nuclei. The article posits that the conditions within the Sun's convection zone might be similar to Earth's biosphere, potentially supporting solar life.

The UFO Experience: A Philosophical and Psychological Perspective

Alexander G. Keul's article, "INSIDE THE WINDOW," challenges traditional approaches to UFO investigation. He argues that researchers have been too focused on external phenomena, looking "out of an imaginary window," and suggests turning inward to examine the witnesses themselves and the investigators. Keul critiques the Cartesian dualism of "res cogitans" (mind) and "res extensa" (physical body), suggesting that Western science struggles with this distinction. He proposes that the "UFO experience" is a complex interactive system involving perception, imagination, emotion, and social processes, not merely a technical recording of an event. Keul emphasizes the need to consider the witness's life history, education, and the socio-cultural background. He also highlights the importance of understanding the psychological state of the population and the potential for misinterpretation of unusual stimuli. The article advocates for a more holistic approach, integrating psychology, test psychology, and forensic examination of witness reliability.

Revising the Geographical Distribution of UFO Events

Maurizio Verga's summary of his 38-page paper critically analyzes the concept of "geographical distribution" of UFO events. He finds the traditional parameter of "density of population" unsatisfactory due to its inherent variables. Verga proposes a new analysis based on the witness's description of the individual sighting location, categorizing them as "with witness presence" (public areas) and "without witness presence" (remote areas). His research, based on Italian UFO reports, indicates a ratio of about nine to one for cases occurring in locations "with witness presence." Verga criticizes previous studies for their methodological errors, particularly their search for a link between sightings and population density, which he argues often leads to the unsupported assertion that UFOs avoid inhabited places. He suggests that while population density is a factor, it is not a completely suitable parameter due to migratory tendencies, choice of territorial units, and the influence of investigators and media. Verga also discusses "clusters" of sightings and "environmental conditions," expressing skepticism about their significance without rigorous quantitative support. He concludes that research based on witness descriptions of locations is more suitable, but acknowledges its limitations, including the subjectivity of the analyst and the difficulty in defining "witness presence." Ultimately, Verga believes that the fundamental problems regarding the nature of the UFO experience transcend such analytical subdivisions.

BUFORA and Investigator Training

This section includes announcements and information relevant to UFO research organizations. An "EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL MEETING" of BUFORA LIMITED is scheduled for June 2, 1984, to review treasurer's accounts. A notice regarding the resignation of Bob Digby as Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of J-TAP is also present, along with a call for a new Editor-in-Chief. Furthermore, a section on "INVESTIGATOR TRAINING" highlights the need for formal training in UFO research. It mentions a witness-based test questionnaire, "The UFO Anamnesis Test," devised by Dr. A.G. Keul, and announces workshops organized by ASSAP/BUFORA in three centers. The training is described as non-physical, open to members over 18, and aims to enhance awareness of the UFO enigma and the way witnesses perceive reality under unusual stimuli. Ken Phillips is listed as BUFORA's Training Officer.

References

A comprehensive list of references is provided, citing works on solar physics (Eddy, Moore, Asimov), UFO phenomena (Moore, Haines, Gibson, Simon, Verga), extraterrestrial intelligence (Morrison, Cameron), and eyewitness testimony (Loftus). Psychoanalytic and psychological perspectives on UFOs are also referenced (Caruso, Schindler, Jung, Toselli).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific study of the Sun, the psychological and sociological aspects of UFO phenomena, and the critical evaluation of UFO investigation methodologies. The journal appears to advocate for a more interdisciplinary and rigorous approach to UFO research, emphasizing the importance of witness psychology and moving beyond simplistic technological explanations. There is a clear stance against superficial analysis and a call for deeper, more nuanced investigations into the nature of UFO experiences. The editorial also highlights the organizational activities of BUFORA and its commitment to training investigators.

Title: THE JOURNAL OF TRANSIENT AERIAL PHENOMENA
Issue: Pages 115-124
Date: April, 1984
Volume: 3
Publisher: The Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of The Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena features several articles exploring the intersection of UFO phenomena, parapsychology, and the scientific investigation of anomalous events.

Ball Lightning Update

Author: Steuart Campbell

This section investigates reports of Ball Lightning (BL) perforating window panes. Campbell critically examines several cases, including one by Dr. McIntosh, which he suggests was likely caused by a small missile rather than BL. He also discusses a report from Russia concerning a "hairy" red sphere observed in 1977 that caused a hole in a window pane. Experiments with a laser simulating the conditions suggest that the glass was heated to approximately 1000°C, and the opening was formed by subsequent rapid cooling causing a circumferential crack. The article concludes that while BL can perforate windows, it may also pass through without causing damage, and that thermal stress, not melting, is likely responsible for hole formation. It cautions against assuming all window holes are caused by BL.

Towards a Psi/UFO Interface

Author: Manfred Cassirer

Cassirer's thesis attempts to integrate data from parapsychology (psychical research) and ufology. He argues that both disciplines deal with anomalous phenomena not yet recognized by conventional science and that their literatures reveal an absence of comparative studies evaluating common parameters. Cassirer notes that ufologists have often had a superficial acquaintance with parapsychology, and vice versa. He highlights that the two disciplines raise identical methodological and conceptual problems, despite a tendency to view them as demarcated. The author discusses three theories regarding UFOs: the Terrestrial Theory (UFOs as secret weapons), the Extra-Terrestrial Hypothesis (ETs from other planets), and the Paranormal Theory (phenomena akin to psi).

Cassirer critiques the Terrestrial Theory, noting its historical context and eventual abandonment. He finds the Extra-Terrestrial Hypothesis to be too familiar and often sensationalized, discrediting the subject. He points out that while ET hypotheses have generated popular interest, they have also caused fear and suspicion. The article touches upon "Close Encounters" scenarios, alleged abductions, and the morphological variations of alleged "ufonauts." Cassirer suggests that the "general train of events" in humanoid accounts might point to an "inter-cranial" or psychogenetic origin rather than extraterrestrial. He also discusses the lack of conclusive evidence for physical proof like "UFO fragments" or crashed UFOs.

The Paranormal Theory is presented as a preferred explanation, suggesting that UFO phenomena are akin to psi. Cassirer notes that coverage of this topic by ufologists is often lacking. He proposes that the tentative assumption of a paranormal aspect serves as a useful starting point for comparisons and speculations, replacing "woolly thinking."

Cassirer also addresses the concept of "UFO-prone" people, or "repeaters," who have multiple experiences. He questions the assumption that these individuals are necessarily lacking in education or psychological stability, suggesting that UFO-sighters and psi-conducive persons may not be discrete groups. He mentions the idea that contactees might qualify as physical mediums.

A Photograph: Worth a Hundred Words?

This section critically examines the photographic evidence for UFOs. It states that while UFOs have been repeatedly photographed, the images are often ill-defined, and where they are clear, the evidence is frequently weak or suspect. The author notes that convincing "ghost" photographs are also rare. The article discusses the importance of whether the visual representation of a UFO or apparition matches its oral description. It mentions that photographic material can be paranormally affected and distorted, casting doubt on the superiority of pictures over words. The section concludes that UFOs tend to produce vague, blurred images, and that manufactured UFO photographs can retain a core of "believers" despite dubious credentials.

Malfunctioning: A Hallmark of Anomalies

This brief section notes that malfunctioning is a common element in paranormal incidents, whether physical or otherwise.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes the need for rigorous scientific methodology and interdisciplinary approaches in studying anomalous phenomena like UFOs and Ball Lightning. The journal appears to favor explanations that are scientifically testable and cautions against sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims. There is a clear leaning towards exploring the potential links between UFOs and parapsychological phenomena, suggesting that a deeper understanding may lie in the integration of these fields. The editorial stance seems to be one of critical inquiry, seeking to debunk misconceptions while remaining open to genuine investigation of unexplained events.

Title: The Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena
Issue Date: April, 1984
Volume: 1
Issue: 1/2
Publisher: IMPRESS
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Language: English

This issue of The Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena delves into various aspects of ufology, featuring articles on scientific investigation, theoretical propulsion, and the intersection of psychic phenomena with UFO sightings. It also includes announcements for upcoming UFO-related events and a robust correspondence section debating the ethics and implementation of a code of practice for UFO investigators.

Articles and Features

Solar and Extraterrestrial Life - A New Hypothesis (Part 1) By Ali Abutaha, this article begins an exploration into a new hypothesis concerning the relationship between solar activity and extraterrestrial life. The first part likely lays the groundwork for a more detailed discussion in subsequent issues.

Inside the Window Authored by Alexander Keul, this piece offers insights into a specific aspect of UFO phenomena, the title suggesting a focus on observational details or perhaps a particular case study.

Revising the Geographical Distribution of UFO Events Maurizio Verga's contribution addresses the spatial patterns of UFO sightings, potentially re-evaluating existing data or presenting new analyses on where UFOs are reportedly observed.

Ball Lightning Update Steuart Campbell provides an update on the phenomenon of ball lightning, a topic often discussed in relation to UFOs due to its anomalous nature. This section likely reviews recent findings or theories.

Towards a PSI/UFO Interface (Part 1) Manfred Cassirer's article initiates a discussion on the potential links between psychic abilities (PSI) and UFO phenomena. This part likely explores initial theories and evidence suggesting a connection.

Electromagnetic Effects and Physical Traces Several sections and correspondence pieces touch upon the physical effects associated with UFO sightings. These include temporary malfunctions of electronic equipment such as tape-recorders, flash-guns, radar, and telephones, often occurring coincident with sightings. The text notes that such interferences are sometimes dismissed by skeptics with mundane explanations, like the moon shining into a car window causing a driver to stall. However, the journal presents a well-attested case from the USA where an aircraft's radar was suddenly jammed by a strong interference for 10 seconds. Physical trace evidence is also discussed, with examples like charred grass roots and affected soil animals, suggesting a significant energy source beneath a disc-shaped object. The 'Photon Rocket Theory' proposed by Chris Strevens suggests that microwave activity underneath a craft could cause these effects, including a coloured glow due to ionized air and sulphurous smells from ozone.

The Photon Rocket Theory Chris Strevens elaborates on his 'Photon Rocket Theory,' which posits that a craft requires immense microwave power (a thousand gigawatts per tonne) for propulsion, enabling relativistic velocities. The theory explains the inverted saucer shape as a result of an annular reflector and the coloured glow as ionized air. A key challenge identified is the generation and control of such enormous energy, with the potential for the craft to be instantly vaporized. The theory suggests that the soil beneath the craft can dissipate energy, preventing a rapid temperature rise.

UFO Study Course and Congress Announcements

• UFO Study Course: A five-week course is announced, to be held in London from June 4th, 1984, at the Mayfield Adult Centre. Taught by Lionel Beer, a founding member of BUFORA, the course aims to provide an objective and critical understanding of UFO phenomena, illustrated with color slides.
• UFO Congress 1984: This event is scheduled for July 21st-27th, 1984, at the Mellerup Centre in Denmark. Speakers include Bertil Kuhlemann (UFO Sweden), Hans Jurgen Kohler (Germany), and Robin Lindsey (UK), who will discuss the British UFO scene. Accommodation and meals are estimated at approximately £75, with a £6 admission fee for lectures.
• ASSAP Garden Party: The Association for the Scientific Study of Anomalous Phenomena (ASSAP) is hosting its 1984 Garden Party and Fair on Saturday, June 23rd, 1984, at the home of David Christie-Murray in East Molesey, Surrey.

Correspondence: The Code of Practice Debate

A significant portion of the correspondence section is dedicated to a debate surrounding a 'Code of Practice' for UFO investigators. Steuart Campbell refutes Jenny Randles' assertion that he and Geoff Bird mooted the idea, stating that Les Hall of NUFOIS first suggested it and drew up the initial draft. Campbell explains that NUFOIS, while pioneering the concept of an informal code, ultimately voted not to adopt the 'legally vetted' version promoted by Randles.

Jenny Randles replies, respecting Morrell and NUFOIS's stance but disagreeing with their view on the Code. She acknowledges that many people considered a code necessary, including herself and Dr. Berthold Schwarz. Randles recounts how Geoff Bird, Rosalind and Peter Warrington, and herself met to organize a joint meeting of northern and southern UFO groups, which led to the idea of a mutually agreed code. She credits Geoff Bird with putting the idea of MAUFOG and her to NUFON. A working party was formed in January 1981, and Les Hall suggested the Code's outline. BUFORA was involved from the outset, and NUFOIS attended drafting meetings until the final draft in April 1982. Randles notes that NUFOIS expressed dissatisfaction only after the Code's publication. She argues that while NUFOIS is entitled not to adopt it, they share blame for its perceived 'badness.' Randles asserts that the Code is not bad, and draftees will be invited to discuss changes. She emphasizes that the Code was the first serious attempt by independent UFO groups to resolve differences and work towards a common aim, and its successful outcome is more important than who originated the idea. Randles concludes by stating that despite NUFOIS's views, the Code has been adopted by many groups, and a modified version is used by ASSAP for paranormal/psychic phenomena investigations, calling its general acceptance a tribute to those who formulated it.

Notes for Contributors

The journal outlines its aims and scope, emphasizing scientific analysis and evaluation of UFO phenomena. It seeks to provide an international forum for researchers and scientists. The 'Notes for Contributors' section details submission guidelines, including manuscript formatting, the requirement for an abstract, illustration specifications, and a specific referencing style for published literature, citing examples from Jacques Vallee and David Haisell.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently promotes a rigorous, scientific approach to the study of UFO phenomena, encouraging detailed investigation and analysis. It provides a platform for diverse theories, including speculative ones like the Photon Rocket Theory, while also engaging in critical discussions about methodology and investigator conduct, as seen in the debate over the Code of Practice. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, valuing evidence-based research and the collaborative efforts of the ufological community, while also acknowledging the need for clear standards and ethical practices among investigators. The journal also highlights the potential for electromagnetic and physical effects to be associated with UFO sightings, suggesting these are areas worthy of further investigation.