JTAP - Vol 3 No 4 - Mar 1985

Magazine Overview

Title: The Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena
Issue Date: March, 1985
Volume: 3, No. 4
Publisher: British Unidentified Flying Object Research Association Ltd.
ISSN: 0143-8840

This issue of The Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena is dedicated 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 novel hypothesis about the potential for life on the Sun and other stars.

Article: Solar and Extrasolar Life - A New Hypothesis (Part 3)

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 the current state of knowledge, challenging common sense and existing scientific paradigms. The hypothesis is based on a lengthy study of diverse subjects.

The author argues that just as Earth's biosphere reached a thermodynamic equilibrium, the Sun has also achieved a steady state in its convection zone. Prevailing conditions, including a temperature of 4,000°K or more and significant solar gravity (27 terrestrial g's), allow for the formation of molecular structures, potentially including liquid water. The cyclic rise and fall of matter in the Sun, driven by hydrodynamic flows, provides a mechanism for mixing and combining solar material.

Intense magnetic fields, on the order of 4,000 gauss or more, associated with sunspots, are identified as a major factor influencing matter in the convection zone. These magnetic fields are proposed to act as a transport medium for charged particles from the Sun's fusion process. The article suggests that these magnetic force fields, through paramagnetic, diamagnetic, or nuclear magnetic effects, can create order and organization in neutral matter, akin to ferromagnetism. This increase in order is viewed as a decrease in entropy, which, by obviating some of the entropic effects of high solar temperatures, increases the likelihood of forming simple and complex molecules.

Abutaha draws a parallel to the 1953 Urey and Miller experiment, which produced amino acids from a mixture of water, methane, ammonia, and hydrogen molecules when subjected to energy. He suggests that similar amino acids and other life-building blocks could form in the Sun's convection zone if the proposed solar conditions (water, methane, ammonia, hydrogen) were present and subjected to commensurate energy. This formation is attributed not to experimental ingenuity but to the inherent tendencies of atoms, particularly carbon, which can form diverse and complex molecular structures.

The article posits that the laws of physics, chemistry, and biology are universal, governed by a 'Master Blue Print'. It suggests that life, as understood on Earth (carbon-based and water-nourished), could have developed on the Sun much sooner than on Earth due to the Sun's greater abundance of matter, energy, and time. The author extends this to the possibility of life on other celestial bodies, proposing the 'Cosmic Life Line' concept.

Cosmic Life Line

The concept of multiple inhabited worlds is discussed, referencing the Drake equation, which estimates the number of intelligent, technologically advanced, and communicative species in our galaxy. The search for extraterrestrial intelligence (ETIs) has largely focused on planets with conditions similar to Earth. Abutaha's 'solar and extrasolar life' hypothesis broadens the scope of potential abodes for life, including planets, planetoids, stars, and giant stars.

The 'Cosmic Life Line' is defined on a simplified p-v-t (pressure-volume-temperature) surface of water. Region E on this surface represents the conditions that led to life on Earth, while region S represents hypothetical solar conditions conducive to liquid water and life on the Sun. A line connecting these regions, and extending beyond, forms the Cosmic Life Line. Celestial bodies falling near this line are considered potential candidates for life development, regardless of their size (e.g., Mercury, Earth, Jupiter, or the Sun).

The discovery of living organisms in deep-sea hydrothermal vents at temperatures up to 300°C supports the idea that life can exist under extreme conditions, and the metabolic rates of these vent creatures were found to be similar to those living at sea level.

Thermodynamics and Equations of State

The article delves into the thermodynamic relationship between pressure, density, and temperature, described by an 'equation of state'. For an ideal gas, these relationships are illustrated with diagrams showing how pressure, volume, and temperature are interconnected. The p-v-t surface for an ideal substance is presented, where each point represents a thermodynamic state of equilibrium.

For real substances, the p-v-t surface includes phase transitions (solid, liquid, gas). The article discusses water's behavior under varying pressure and temperature, noting that liquid water can exist beyond 100°C, and even forms of ice occur at higher temperatures under extreme pressure. It suggests that if the p-v-t surface of water is extended to solar temperatures and pressures, water could exist in a liquid state essential for life's development on the Sun.

A key objection addressed is the 'critical point' (CP) of water, typically cited as around 374°C and 219 atmospheric pressure, beyond which liquid water supposedly cannot exist. Abutaha argues that the CP is an extrapolated, not measured, value and therefore cannot be used to refute the possibility of liquid water at solar temperatures. He highlights the difference between heating a sample and measuring pressure versus pressurizing a sample and measuring temperature, especially near boiling points.

Editorial Information and Advertising

The journal is published bi-annually (April and October) by BUFORA. Editorial inquiries are directed to the Editor-in-Chief at an address in Whittlesey, Peterborough. Membership inquiries for BUFORA are handled by the Membership Secretary in London. Single copies can be reproduced for personal, non-commercial use, but permission is required for broader reproduction. The journal is sent free to BUFORA members and on an exchange basis internationally. It can also be purchased from the Librarian in Whittlesey.

Advertisement communications are directed to the Director of Publications in London. Only advertisements pertinent to the study of transient aerial phenomena are accepted; classified advertising is not permitted. Display rates for black and white advertisements are provided, ranging from £45 for a full page to £8 for an eighth page.

The Editorial Board welcomes contributions but offers no guarantee of publication. The views expressed by contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the Editorial Board.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue is the exploration of unconventional scientific hypotheses, particularly concerning the possibility of extraterrestrial life and life originating in extreme environments like the Sun. The journal's stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unusual phenomena, encouraging scientific study and the consideration of new ideas, even those that challenge conventional wisdom. The emphasis on thermodynamics, physics, and chemistry in relation to life's origins suggests a rigorous, albeit speculative, approach to the subject matter.

This issue of THE JOURNAL OF TRANSIENT AERIAL PHENOMENA, dated March 1985, delves into the complex relationship between the scientific method, human perception, and the intriguing hypothesis of solar life potentially linked to UFO phenomena. The content critically examines the foundations of scientific inquiry and the challenges of empirical verification, particularly in the context of extraterrestrial or unconventional life forms.

The Scientific Method and Perception

The issue begins by reflecting on the scientific method, emphasizing the necessity of "bona fide experiments of bona fide samples" and the interplay between hypotheses and theories, and observed facts (perceptions). It quotes Immanuel Kant, stating, "Concepts without percepts are empty, percepts without concepts are blind," highlighting the crucial balance between abstract thought and empirical evidence. The text traces the historical development of scientific thought, from Democritus pondering atomic structure to Copernicus developing the heliocentric system, underscoring how perceptions lead to conceptions and vice versa.

The Solar Life Hypothesis

A central theme is the hypothesis of solar and extrasolar life. The author posits that while direct laboratory experiments with "solar life" samples are currently impossible, the existence of celestial bodies like neutron stars and black holes is accepted scientifically despite the lack of physical samples. This sets a precedent for accepting the possibility of solar life based on theoretical reasoning and indirect evidence. The article suggests that if solar life exists in a simple molecular form, detection is unlikely with current technology. However, if such life has evolved to an "intelligent, technologically advanced and communicative level," detection becomes more feasible, though still challenging.

Solar Radio Emissions and Intelligent Signals

The journal discusses the vastness of the electromagnetic spectrum and the limited utilization of its bands for communication. It notes that the Sun radiates energy across many bands, with solar radio emission being a complex subject. While basic thermal background radiation and slowly varying components are understood, other emissions like noise storms and outbursts are also mentioned. The author strongly urges SETI groups to actively listen for "intelligent signals" from the Sun, comparing this search to the ongoing search for extraterrestrial intelligence in other directions and frequency bands.

Life Support Systems and Solar Exploration

Considering the possibility of solar life, the article explores the concept of a life support system capable of sustaining terrestrial life and instruments within the Sun's extreme conditions. It acknowledges that current technology is insufficient for such a feat, but theoretically, a force field (electromagnetic or anti-matter) could provide the necessary containment against immense pressures and temperatures. Such solar beings, if they exist, would likely be "self-luminous and glow" due to their nature, aligning with the proposed hypothesis.

UFO Phenomena as Potential Evidence

The issue then pivots to the subject of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) as a potential source of evidence supporting the solar life hypothesis. It acknowledges the controversial nature of UFOs within the scientific community. The author recounts a personal approach to the subject, aiming to extract information on "strange objects of "unnatural" nature" and "strange beings" reported by witnesses. A review of UFO phenomena over the past four decades suggests that while many reports can be attributed to misidentifications of natural objects, earthly artifacts, or psychological factors like mass hysteria and hoaxes, a residue of reports points to mysterious occurrences.

Analysis of Witness Accounts and UFO Characteristics

The reliability of UFO witnesses is discussed, noting that their occupational backgrounds are diverse and impressive, including pilots, astronomers, and law enforcement officers. The article highlights that witnesses have reported seeing objects and beings, hearing sounds, and feeling warmth. They also reported malfunctions of engines and radios near these objects. The common descriptions of UFOs include them being self-luminous, glowing, brilliant, flaming, and radiating. Obvious effects reported include burning, scorching, heat waves, and electromagnetic effects. The author suggests that "Solar beings and objects" would naturally glow and be self-luminous, fitting the proposed hypothesis.

Critique of Poher's Geomagnetic Correlation Study

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to a critical examination of a study by Dr. Claude Poher, published in FSR in July 1974. Poher claimed to have found a time correlation between geomagnetic disturbances and UFO eyewitness accounts, based on data from a geophysical research station at Chambon-la-Forêt, France. The author, Steuart Campbell, meticulously dissects Poher's methodology, pointing out several serious defects. These include the use of inadequate data, the lack of clear definitions for "disturbances," and the manipulation of data to achieve correlations. Campbell argues that Poher's analysis, particularly his use of selective data and flawed graphs, does not support his conclusions. For instance, Poher's claim of a correlation coefficient of 0.034 for declination disturbances is described as "almost non-existent," while a correlation of 0.58 for the vertical component is questioned due to the selective use of data and the potential for contrived results. The article concludes that Poher's study, despite appearing technically competent, lacks justification for its conclusions.

Conclusion on UFOs and Solar Life

Campbell suggests that the observed characteristics of UFOs, such as their speed, electromagnetic effects, and apparent anti-gravity behavior, can be understood within the framework of the proposed solar life hypothesis. The article posits that solar beings, being only eight light-minutes away, could visit Earth within a generation, resolving a paradox related to space travel limitations. The observations made by UFO witnesses are presented as potentially representing perceptions of this hypothesized solar life.

Future Research and Appointments

The issue concludes with a section on "Appointments," referencing a previous article in the BUFORA BULLETIN that defined four research sections for studying UFO phenomena. Two group leaders have been found, but leaders are still needed for "UFOs Are The Result Of Advanced Technology" and "UFOs Are Psychological Or Physiological Phenomena." The duties of group leaders are outlined, including developing research programs, preparing budgets, submitting progress reports, and suggesting future research projects. Interested individuals are invited to contact Stephen Gamble with their qualifications and preferred section.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of unconventional hypotheses (solar life), the critical evaluation of scientific methodology and data analysis, and the role of human perception in interpreting phenomena. The editorial stance is one of rigorous scientific skepticism, emphasizing the need for verifiable evidence and sound methodology, as demonstrated by the detailed critique of Dr. Poher's study. While open to exploring speculative ideas, the journal insists on a high standard of proof and analysis, particularly when dealing with subjects as elusive as UFOs and potential extraterrestrial intelligence.

This issue of *The Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena* (March 1985, pages 175-184) explores the complex and often controversial intersection of parapsychology and ufology. The articles delve into the scientific, ethical, and societal aspects of studying unexplained phenomena, critiquing past research and advocating for a more rigorous and integrated approach.

Article 1: Critique of Magnetic Field Correlations with UFOs

The issue begins with a critical examination of studies, particularly those by Claude Poher, that attempt to correlate geomagnetic disturbances with UFO sightings. The author argues that the data used in such studies is often unreliable, inconsistently applied, and lacks proper definition. The analysis suggests that correlations were forced and that Poher's conclusions were contrived to fit a preconceived hypothesis, with no solid evidence presented to support a link between magnetic field variations and UFO events. The presentation of results is described as careless, with a lack of discrimination between normal and abnormal variations.

Article 2: Towards a Psi/UFO Interface

Manfred Cassirer presents a thesis attempting to integrate data from parapsychology and ufology. He highlights the author's background as a former chairman of the Psychical Phenomena Committee of the Society for Psychical Research and a member of the Parapsychological Association. The work aims to inter-relate specific aspects of both fields to shed light on the UFO enigma, encouraging a vigorous cross-fertilisation of ideas. Cassirer notes the striking resemblances in phenomena and taxonomy between the two disparate fields.

Altered States of Consciousness (ASCs)

ASCs are discussed as being highly relevant to UFO studies, encompassing a variety of subjects like trances, 'trance-like states' associated with Close Encounters, hypnotic recall, possession, OBEs, and religious experiences. Automatisms, such as automatic writing, are also mentioned as purported means of communication with 'extraterrestrials'. The article touches upon 'Raudive Voices' and healing experiences, noting that UFO encounters can sometimes result in deleterious radiation-like effects. Hypnosis-induced experiences, like floating sensations and moving through a tunnel, are compared to near-death cases and are considered common in abduction narratives.

The Ethology of the Unknown

This section examines how animals react to the paranormal, noting that pets and other animals often exhibit extreme fear in the presence of apparitions and auditory phenomena. 'Flying Saucers' observed at close quarters are a cause of trepidation. The article discusses the potential role of intermittent, high-frequency sounds and humming or buzzing sounds in explaining animal reactions. It cautions against misinterpreting animal behaviour, as mistaken IFO sightings can occur. Extreme cases are cited, including a dog jumping to its death and a herd of cattle stampeding due to a UFO sighting in Madagascar.

The Cult of the Flying Saucer

The article contrasts the 'cult' status of ufology with other religions, noting that only a few base their beliefs on objective data. Spiritualism is mentioned as having paved the way for Psychical Research. Ufology is described as having developed into a 'Cult of Unreason,' although serious students maintain an interest in field investigation. The origins of Psychical Research, Ufology, and Spiritualism are traced to specific historical points.

Ethical Considerations in Research

Berthold Schwarz's article on the 'ethical basis' of Ufology is discussed, emphasizing the investigator's responsibility to the witness, themselves, and science. This includes protecting witnesses from criticism and ridicule, often through anonymity, though this can amount to suppression of evidence. The article touches on the difficulty of verifying old accounts due to concealed locations and subsequent history. The potential for witnesses to be persecuted or harassed is highlighted, with examples of individuals losing their homes and jobs due to their experiences.

The Science of the Negatively Defined?

This section addresses the nature of anomalies in both psychical research and ufology, noting that they are imperfectly understood. Psychical research is often confused with the supernatural or the occult. Both fields are largely defined negatively: ufology by its focus on the 'unidentified.' The article critiques the tendency to dismiss valid data through prejudice, using the example of Edward Condon's report on UFOs, which focused on bizarre cult aspects while neglecting bona fide witnesses.

Teleportation and Levitation

Teleportation is defined as the paranormal transportation of objects, often involving 'impossible' trajectories in poltergeist cases. It is distinguished from 'apportation.' The article discusses the challenges in proving such phenomena, noting that while some researchers accept Zoellner's observations on the fourth dimension, others are more skeptical. The concept of 'higher space' is discussed in relation to teleportation and poltergeists. The article also touches on the idea of a 'parallel universe system' and its connection to folklore and fairyland.

The Media

The media's role in the history of psychical research and ufology is examined. While psychical research gained respectability with the founding of the SPR, ufology is considered to have a shorter history of scientific investigation. The media is criticized for its tendency towards light-hearted, entertainment-focused approaches, often favouring skepticism and neglecting the serious aspects of these subjects. This can lead the uninitiated to misunderstand the phenomena.

The Organised Study of Parapsychology and UFOs

This section discusses the organized study of both fields. The Society for Psychical Research studies 'mental' and 'physical' phenomena. Ufology has been cautiously admitted as part of the work of the Physical Phenomena Committee. The article notes the existence of various institutions and publications dedicated to these subjects in both the US and the UK, highlighting the need for rigorous study and the challenges posed by limited readership and a negative attitude from mainstream scientific journals.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the interdisciplinary nature of studying anomalies, the critical evaluation of evidence, and the ethical responsibilities of researchers. There is a clear stance against uncritical acceptance of claims and a call for more rigorous, scientific investigation. The journal emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between genuine phenomena and misinterpretations, cultic beliefs, or media sensationalism. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious inquiry, advocating for a balanced approach that acknowledges the complexities and potential validity of these phenomena while demanding robust evidence and ethical conduct.

Title: The Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena
Issue Date: March 1985
Volume: 1
Publisher: The Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena

This issue of The Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena explores a range of anomalous phenomena, including levitation, teleportation, and poltergeist activity. It features articles that attempt to apply scientific analysis and evaluation methods to these subjects, while also acknowledging the speculative nature of much ufological research.

Levitation and Teleportation

The journal begins by discussing levitation as an incredible form of traction or teleportation involving humans and animals. It references historical accounts, such as those of mediaeval saints like Joseph of Copertino, and modern cases involving mediums like D.D. Home. The phenomenon of 'out-of-body abductions' is also mentioned, often featuring in UFO literature and described as having a dream-like nature, potentially being 'dramatised reconstructions based on memory'.

Abductees are reported to claim they have been levitated into space-craft, a mode of transport also supposedly used by humanoids described as 'floating' or 'flying'. The floating of the Coles children in the Bristol Poltergeist Case is cited as an independently attested event. The article notes that while UFO abductions cannot be accepted at face-value, they also cannot be dismissed outright. Poltergeist cases are presented as providing better evidence for human teleportation. The phenomenon is also noted to sometimes involve animals, with a case in which a whole herd of cattle was repeatedly teleported over some distance reported from Wales.

Assault and Damage by Anomalous Forces

The issue then addresses the 'Assault' aspect of anomalous manifestations, highlighting that the powerful forces involved in phenomena like poltergeists are capable of serious assault on humans. Reactions vary from amusement to overt neurotic behaviour. While cases of actual bodily harm are rare, the article details instances of physical harm and damage. The writer recounts witnessing the repeated throwing of heavy weights and 'Growmore' in confined quarters at Bromley, though no spectators were harmed, only showered with fertiliser. In an empty room, a thirty-pound weight spontaneously rose and smashed a window. The writer also observed a nursery worker being pushed from behind on two occasions.

Other recorded cases include victims being bitten, slapped, cut, pricked, strangled, smacked, and assaulted with thick saliva and excrements. In Livingston, a man's trousers were damaged, and a similar incident occurred in a French case. Poltergeists are also noted for their damage to property, causing general chaos and loss of money.

Dangers of UFO Encounters and Psychic Phenomena

UFOS, especially those encountered at close quarters, are described as potentially dangerous, with physical effects that are predominantly physiological and psychological. Radiation-like symptoms are commonly reported, though their origin (physical or psychosomatic) is unknown. 'Abductions' are discussed, often involving physical examinations by humanoids inside 'space-craft', which can be painful and distressing for victims. The stalling of cars and interference with radios and TV are considered minor instances of assault compared to these experiences.

A category of 'paralysis' is discussed, apparently induced by hostile external influences beyond human control. This is most noticeable during encounters with ufonauts who may direct 'instruments' towards recipients, causing paralysis. Similar paralysis has been reported in subjective apparitions. The article notes that while this phenomenon is expected with poltergeists, none have been found to date.

Air Displacement or 'Psychic Breeze'

The concept of 'air displacement' or 'psychic breeze' is explored. While 'air displacement' is seen as a scientifically acceptable formulation for phenomena like a strong gust of wind or air-current during UFO sightings, 'psychic breeze' is associated with psi-manifestations, often described as strong, icy blasts. This latter phenomenon is familiar from biblical accounts and is known to accompany seances and occur in haunted houses. Objective measurements of temperature lowering under these conditions indicate the phenomenon is real.

Poltergeists and RSPK

The term 'Poltergeist' is discussed, noting its popularisation by Harry Price and its German origin meaning 'boisterous spirits'. However, it is mentioned that German writers now refer to the phenomenon as 'Spuk' (spook), implying spirits. American parapsychologists prefer the term 'Recurrent Spontaneous Psycho-kinesis (RSPK)', suggesting that such cases are person-centred and explicable in terms of human energies. The article notes that while these conceptualisations are not unassailable, there is a growing link between this topic and ufology. UFO manifestations are noted to sometimes concentrate on a specific house, family, or person.

An affinity is observed between the extraordinary trajectories of UFOs and the descriptions in poltergeist literature, particularly 'Lithobolia' (stone-throwing). The article references a South African case where a farm building was attacked by stones, with a connection suggested between the lithobolia and flying objects hovering over the house. Poltergeists, like ufonauts, are said to have a 'message' or engage in conversation, though what is communicated is often not worth the effort of undivided attention.

The 'Sonny' Desvergers Case Debunked

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to a 'Letter to the Editor' by Ian Mrzyglod, which critically examines the 'Sonny' Desvergers scoutmaster incident, a case previously cited as evidence for a 'photon rocket theory'. Mrzyglod argues that the details of this case have varied across different accounts and that its integrity is highly questionable. Investigations by Captain Ruppelt of Project Blue Book uncovered details of Desvergers' past, including dismissals from the Marines for being AWOL and stealing, and time served in a reformatory. Desvergers had also raised the topic of 'flying saucers' before the lights were seen, which scared the scouts. The boys themselves admitted to seeing only lights above the trees, likely aircraft landing lights. Experts concluded that holes in the cap were cigarette burns and singed hair was caused by a lighted match. While there is no explanation for singed grass, alternative accounts claim no traces were found. The case is described as shrouded in contradiction and deceit, with Desvergers being a very unreliable witness. The case was further undermined when he tried to sell the story to a national newspaper, and Blue Book labelled it a hoax. Mrzyglod advises against using such evidence for theories, stating that explaining one untested theory with an even less testable case will never work.

Journal Aims and Scope

The final section outlines the aims and scope of The Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena. It states that ufological research has progressed from speculation to an area where scientific analysis can be applied. The journal aims to provide a forum for scientists and researchers to present ideas, discuss findings, and analyse statistics related to UFO phenomena. It seeks to offer an international platform for publishing results and furthering knowledge of the cosmos. The section also provides detailed notes for contributors regarding manuscript submission, formatting, and referencing.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are levitation, teleportation, poltergeist activity, and UFO encounters. The journal adopts a critical and analytical approach, seeking to apply scientific rigor to these phenomena. While acknowledging the existence and potential significance of these events, it also emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation and the debunking of unreliable cases, as exemplified by the detailed analysis of the Desvergers incident. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry combined with a commitment to evidence-based analysis, aiming to distinguish between genuine phenomena and hoaxes or misinterpretations.