JTAP - Vol 4 No 1 - Sep 1985

Magazine Overview

Title: The Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena
Issue: Volume 4, No.1
Date: September, 1985
Publisher: The British Unidentified Flying Object Research Association Ltd.
Country: UK
ISSN: 0143-8840

This issue of The Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena (JTAP) serves to clarify the scope of the publication and to explore the intersections between ufology and parapsychology. The journal emphasizes that 'Transient Aerial Phenomena' (TAP) is a broad category that extends beyond UFOs to include various atmospheric and meteorological events, as well as potential phenomena on other celestial bodies.

Defining Transient Aerial Phenomena (TAP)

The lead article, authored by S.J. Gamble, addresses the initial confusion surrounding the journal's title. It clarifies that TAP encompasses all short-duration phenomena occurring in planetary atmospheres, not solely UFOs. Examples provided include ball lightning, meteors, and meteorological events. The article highlights that research into Martian meteorology, for instance, would fall within JTAP's scope, as would studies on new techniques for atmospheric analysis. It also mentions articles on ball lightning and atmospheric phenomena that are not strictly UFO reports, as well as theories about life in the solar atmosphere. The journal welcomes debate on such topics.

Towards a Psi/UFO Interface

Manfred Cassirer's article, 'Towards a Psi/UFO Interface,' explores the integration of parapsychology (psychical research) and ufology. The author, a former chairman of the psychical phenomena committee of the Society for Psychical Research (SPR), views this as an attempt to integrate two sets of data on a more comprehensive scale. The SPR has recently acknowledged UFO studies as within its purview. Cassirer's work discusses existing theories and inter-relates specific aspects of UFO phenomena. The primary aim is not to offer a definitive 'solution' but to encourage a vigorous exchange of ideas between these two groups, noting that the points of contact are 'almost inexhaustible' and represent 'virgin soil.' He observes striking resemblances, and occasional equally striking differences, between the phenomena studied by both disciplines.

Messengers - Of What?

This section delves into the nature of 'messengers' in both the UFO and paranormal spheres. It references Jacques Vallee's belief that UFOs exercise a 'control system' through Close Encounters. The article contrasts the fundamentalist condemnation of UFOs with the more naive 'good' and 'bad' extraterrestrial theories. It also touches upon spiritualist beliefs in polarized spirit entities and the unreliability of 'spirit' messages, citing historical examples like Mrs. Piper's 'Dr. Phinuit.' The author discusses the limitations and occasional inaccuracies of mediums, while acknowledging 'mind-blowing hits.' The 'Raudive Voices' are dismissed as an illusion, and apparitions are described as generally uncommunicative.

Apparitions and Poltergeists

The journal examines the characteristics of apparitions and poltergeists, drawing on various studies. Apparitions are noted for their reluctance to speak freely and realistically, sometimes failing to move their lips or being not visible. They may prefer telepathic communication. Green's research suggests apparitions avoid high realism, involving only one sense at a time, which contrasts with lucid dreams. Poltergeists, however, are presented as more conversational and sometimes display knowledge of personal affairs, though their discretion is questionable. Anecdotal cases describe poltergeists exhibiting 'irreverent buffoonery,' malicious gossip, and even contradictory personas, such as claiming to be both the Devil and an Angel.

The article notes that poltergeists share regressive tendencies with mediumistic communicators, using childish 'controls.' Examples include messages in bad Latin found in an Italian monastery and modern language messages associated with mediums. The text also mentions false claims of inventions made by occupants of American airships in the 1890s, and contemporary 'ufonauts' engaging in activities like collecting botanical specimens or affecting repairs to 'spacecraft.' Their realism varies, and they adapt to local cultures, but their conversations rarely reach a high intellectual level.

Epilogue and Conclusions

The epilogue summarizes the study's findings, stating that no definitive solution to the UFO syndrome has been reached. The purpose was to highlight the numerous points of contact between ufology and parapsychology, advocating against rigidly compartmentalizing these fields. The author warns against a 'misconceived pot-pourri of assorted occultism and largely misunderstood so-called "parapsychology."' True understanding requires a proper appreciation of what is known and unknown about terms like 'telepathy.' The study argues that separating phenomena into distinct 'pigeon-holes' within psychical research prevents proper evaluation of data, leading writers to ignore relevant information from other areas.

The article concludes that UFOs may be messengers of regression as much as deliberate deception, and not necessarily 'space-gods.' It suggests that specialists should broaden their scope to include the 'humanoid syndrome' and that this study is a step towards a wider, more informed perspective for both parapsychology and ufology.

Index to UFO Cases and References

The issue includes an 'Index to UFO Cases,' listing various documented incidents and locations such as Airship Waves (USA), Fatima, and Ubatuba. It also features an extensive 'References' section, providing a bibliography of cited works on UFOs, parapsychology, apparitions, poltergeists, and related subjects, with authors like D.P. Abbott, J.S. Accetta, R.A. Gilbert, J.A. Harder, A. Hendry, and J.A. Hynek.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the definition and scope of 'Transient Aerial Phenomena,' the complex relationship between UFO sightings and paranormal experiences (parapsychology, spiritualism, apparitions, poltergeists), and the importance of interdisciplinary research. The editorial stance, as conveyed through the articles, is one of open inquiry, encouraging the scientific study of these phenomena while cautioning against unsubstantiated speculation and the rigid separation of related fields. The journal aims to foster a more holistic understanding by promoting the exchange of ideas and data between ufologists and parapsychologists.

Title: THE JOURNAL OF TRANSIENT AERIAL PHENOMENA
Issue: Pages 196-205
Issue Date: September, 1985
Cover Headline: FIVE SELECTED CASES

This issue of The Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena delves into the complexities of UFO sightings by presenting five selected case studies, with a particular emphasis on the psychological aspects of witness testimony and the reliability of their accounts. The journal also includes a comprehensive list of abbreviations used in UFO research, a home computer questionnaire for members, and a section on assessing witness reliability.

Five Selected Cases

The primary focus of this issue is a detailed examination of five distinct UFO encounters, presented by A.G. Keul. These cases are drawn from a larger study comparing Austrian and British witnesses, utilizing the UFO Anamnesis technique developed by Dr. Keul.

Case One: The Beauty Specialist

A 24-year-old beauty specialist from near Vienna reported seeing two bright lights low in the sky on October 31st, 1980. Initially described as car headlights, the phenomenon was later interpreted as a psychosomatic event, possibly influenced by her mother's strong interest in parapsychology and UFOs. The quick disappearance of her facial and eye inflammation was noted as a potential indicator of a psychosomatic origin.

Case Two: The Zoologist

A 57-year-old zoologist from the same community as the first witness reported a 'nocturnal light' on January 15th, 1981. The object, described as oval and brighter than Venus, was observed flying north-south. Our Rorschach test with this witness resulted in a 'positive reporter profile,' and the case is noted for its psychological distance from Case One, despite the geographical proximity.

Case Three: The College Schoolboy

A 15-year-old schoolboy from a Bedfordshire village reported an observation in November 1979. He described an object with 'satellite craft around it' and a light that 'switched out.' Ken Phillips' initial investigation noted the boy's extensive interest in UFOs. The Rorschach test administered by Keul revealed a highly bizarre and aggressive fantasy world, bordering on schizophrenia, suggesting the 'sensation of being drawn to the window' and the description of the 'satellite craft' were likely products of this fantasy.

Case Four: The Horticultural Businessman

A 55-year-old horticultural businessman from a Bedfordshire village recounted an observation from September 1975. He described seeing an elliptical ring of blue light hovering over trees for about 30 to 40 seconds. The witness, who suffers from a distinct tremor but has good eyesight, has a strong interest in UFOs and ESP and believes in the possibility of faith-healing. His account showed a tendency to link the phenomenon to 'ley lines.'

Case Five: The Compositor

This case, described as the first complex UFO affair encountered in Austria, began on the night of October 28th-29th, 1973. A 21-year-old compositor reported seeing an extraordinary thing in the sky, described as a star that was much nearer, emitting different lights and signals. The event involved yellow-orange beams, green mist, and a 'classic' domed disc shape. The witness had a history of contact with Jehovah's Witnesses and felt that studying the Bible diminished the phenomenon's significance for him. He retrospectively considered the 'flap' as an illusion.

The Assessment of Witness Reliability

S.J. Gamble, Director of Research and Vice-Chairman of BUFORA, discusses the critical issue of witness reliability in UFO cases. He likens witnesses to recording instruments that require calibration. The article highlights the challenges of assessing data from untrained witnesses, particularly when only one witness is available, as in the case of Albert Burtoo. Gamble reviews existing methods for assessing reliability, including Hynek's Strangeness and Probability ratings, polygraph tests, and psychological assessments. He notes that while polygraphs might detect outright fraud, they cannot identify hallucinations or genuine mistakes. The article also critically examines hypnotic regression, citing the Betty and Barney Hill case as a prominent example. Gamble presents evidence suggesting that hypnotic recall is often unreliable, prone to confabulation, and can create pseudo-memories, especially in highly motivated individuals. The general opinion is that repeated hypnotic regression increases the incorporation of falsely recalled items.

Abbreviations

A comprehensive list of abbreviations used in UFO research is provided, including terms like APRO Bull, Ass.N., BUFORA J., CUFOS Bull., FSR, JASPR, JoP, JSPR, JTAP, JUS, and PR, along with their full names and publishers.

Home Computer Questionnaire

BUFORA is seeking to computerize UFO reports and has included a questionnaire for members to complete. It asks about ownership and intended ownership of home computers, access to other computers for UFO research, computer models, memory size, operating systems, data storage methods, and the use of statistical programs and UFO data storage.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the psychological interpretation of UFO sightings and the inherent difficulties in establishing the objective reality of such experiences. The journal emphasizes the importance of rigorous scientific methodology, including the critical assessment of witness testimony and the potential for psychological factors to influence or even create reported phenomena. The editorial stance appears to favor a cautious, evidence-based approach, acknowledging the complexities of the subject while advocating for systematic research and reliable data collection. The inclusion of case studies with detailed psychological analyses and discussions on witness reliability underscores this objective.

Title: THE JOURNAL OF TRANSIENT AERIAL PHENOMENA
Issue: SEPTEMBER, 1985
Date: 1985-09
Content Focus: This issue delves into the complexities of UFO witness evaluation, psychological testing, and statistical analysis of UFO case data. It features contributions from researchers within BUFORA (British UFO Research Association) and discusses various methodologies for assessing the reliability of witness accounts.

Witness Evaluation and Psychological Techniques

The issue begins by exploring different forms of UFO abduction, distinguishing between cases involving time loss (like the Betty and Barney Hill case) and those without. It questions whether communication in time-loss cases might be a pseudo-memory created under hypnosis, suggesting that both types of abduction might be fundamentally the same. The unreliability of hypnotic regression for UFO research is highlighted, citing Spencer (1984).

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the UFO anamnesis technique, proposed by Alex Keul. This method is described as a personality test, distinct from the Rorschach test, aimed at evaluating witnesses' perceptual abilities. Keul's Austrian studies utilized a range of psychological tests, including the Rorschach, Benton short-term memory test, and Wechsler Adult Intelligence test, alongside his own UFO anamnesis questionnaire. The technique has generated controversy, with Keul (1984b) positioning it as an additional tool for cases lacking physical data, not a replacement for conventional methods. BUFORA's research department has supported control experiments for this technique, and Ken Phillips has been actively working with Keul on anamnesis, presenting findings at the Anglo-French UFO Congress.

The article emphasizes the importance of understanding perception as the process by which witnesses interpret their UFO experiences. It suggests that BUFORA's research department could expand its studies to include how witnesses perceive 'objects,' considering senses as physical instruments, referencing Barlow (1982).

Statistical Analysis of BUFORA Cases (1980-1982)

Michael R. Wootten provides a statistical overview of 205 UFO cases investigated by BUFORA between January 1980 and December 1982. Of these, 175 were evaluated as IFOs (Inexplicable Flying Objects) or insufficient data (85.4%), and 30 were evaluated as UFOs/URPS (Unidentified Flying Objects/Unidentified Real Phenomena) (14.6%). The cases are categorized by type, with 'Insufficient Data' being the largest category (57), followed by 'UFOS/UAPS' (30), 'Aircraft' (28), and 'Meteors' (18).

The analysis examines various parameters:

• Witness Quality: Official observers (pilots, etc.) constituted 0.6% of IFO cases and 0% of UFO cases. Experienced observers (police, etc.) accounted for 3.4% of IFOs and 13.4% of UFOs. Unexperienced observers made up the vast majority (96.0% of IFOs, 87.7% of UFOs).
• Witness Numbers: Cases with two or more independent witnesses were 6.9% for IFOs and 6.7% for UFOs. Cases with two or more witnesses at one location were 53.7% for IFOs and 60.0% for UFOs. Single witnesses accounted for 39.4% of IFOs and 33.3% of UFOs.
• Hourly Distribution: The distribution of both IFO and UFO cases shows a peak between 1800 and 2359, correlating with studies by CUFOS and Alan Hendry. This suggests a potential reflection of human observational behavior.
• Daily Distribution: The analysis indicates that Thursday is statistically the best day to see a UFO, although the article notes that different studies show varying peaks for the day of the week, suggesting randomness.
• Monthly Distribution: The IFO graph shows randomness, while the UFO graph exhibits a positive peak in August. However, closer examination reveals a more complex pattern.
• Duration Distribution: The IFO duration tends to remain steady and trail off after approximately 30 minutes. UFO durations show a strong peak between 10 and 30 minutes. The article cautions that duration is a suspect parameter, as witnesses often underestimate or overestimate sighting times.
• Apparent Size Distribution: This parameter is least frequently reported by witnesses. The graphs show a general 'random equalness' between IFO and UFO sizes, but the UFO graph indicates a steady increase in apparent size, peaking at 30.8% for 'Other' categories.

The statistical analysis, while revealing some patterns, ultimately concludes that it has failed to prove anything conclusive. The author suggests that physical parameters alone may not be the key to solving the UFO enigma.

BUFORA's Report Indexing Project

The issue details BUFORA's efforts to create a comprehensive index of its case reports. This project, initiated by Mike Wootten and Steve Gamble, aims to classify reports by time, location, and principal features to unlock the full potential of BUFORA's unique collection. An earlier attempt at classification using punched cards in the mid-1970s by Anthony Pace and later Peter Hill (who coded reports for 1977) demonstrated the value of statistical analysis.

BUFORA Evening Lectures

Announcements are made for BUFORA evening lectures on Ufology, held on the first Saturday of each month at the London Business School. Dates and topics for 1985 are listed, including "The English Witness Project" by Ken Phillips on October 5th, and an AGM followed by a talk by Hugh Pincott of ASSAP on December 7th.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the challenges of UFO witness reliability, the exploration of psychological and statistical methods for analyzing UFO reports, and BUFORA's ongoing efforts to systematically catalog and understand UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous investigation, acknowledging the limitations of current methods while striving for a more scientific approach to the study of UFOs. There is a clear emphasis on the need for better data collection and analysis, moving beyond anecdotal evidence to more structured research.

This issue of The Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena, dated September 1985, features a continuation of the article "Solar and Extrasolar Life - A New Hypothesis" by Ali F. Abutaha, along with articles on UFO case reports, witness reliability, and the Data Protection Act.

Solar and Extrasolar Life - A New Hypothesis (Part 4 Concluded)

Ali F. Abutaha concludes his article by asserting that the hypothesis of life on the Sun and other stars, while sounding bizarre, is a rational consequence of current scientific knowledge. He argues that this possibility, though challenging common sense, is verifiable and could have a profound impact on humanity if proven true. Abutaha emphasizes that the discovery of solar life would not necessarily be a victory for evolutionists or a cause for dismay for creationists, but rather a step towards understanding the unified cosmic evolutionary process. He cites biblical and Quranic passages that hint at the existence of beings not made of conventional matter, such as "And God called the firmament Heaven" (GEN 1.8), "He said, 'But I see four men loose walking in the midst of the fire, and they are not hurt; and the appearance of the fourth is like a son of the gods.'" (DAN 3.25), and "We created Man from sounding clay, from mud moulded into shape; And the Jinn race, We had created before, from the fire of a scorching wind." (QUR'AN xv 26,27).

The article reflects on how new discoveries often appear bizarre due to limitations in human experience and knowledge, likening the solar life hypothesis to the discovery that water is composed of flammable elements. It acknowledges that this hypothesis might be another unsuccessful attempt to determine if humanity is alone in the universe, referencing numerous past attempts to find extraterrestrial intelligence and explain UFO phenomena. The author also touches upon various theories about life beyond Earth, including those involving Mars, Venus, hypothetical giant planets, Hollow Earth theories, underwater civilizations, time travel, ultraterrestrial beings, psychic projection, and parallel universes. Searches for intelligent radio signals, like Project Ozma targeting Tau Ceti and Epsilon Eridani, and the Sirius star, are also mentioned. The author posits that if his hypothesis is correct, it represents a revolutionary step in cosmic evolution, urging continued inquiry into universal truths despite potential challenges to existing beliefs.

Computer Survey

This section announces BUFORA's initiative to computerize its extensive archive of approximately 10,000 UFO cases, covering records from the early 1900s to the present day. The goal is to enhance the archive's effectiveness as a research tool and to facilitate data exchange with other members of the International Committee for UFO Research (ICUR). A special sub-committee of ICUR is focused on computer data exchange, headed by Robert Digby. BUFORA plans to acquire its own computer equipment in the future. In the interim, they are conducting a survey to gauge member interest in using computers for UFO research and in participating in research projects. A "Home Computer Questionnaire" is available on page 218 of the journal, and members are encouraged to complete and return it to Paul Fuller.

Data Protection Act - 1984

This note serves to inform readers about the UK's Data Protection Act of 1984, which aims to protect information about individuals processed by automatic data processing equipment. It highlights that the Act requires data users to register with a Data Registrar and establishes standards for data processing, including accuracy, disclosure, and security. The registration process was set to begin in November, with a six-month period for data users to comply. The Act defines personal data broadly and applies to any information that can identify a living individual. A fee is charged for registration, which lasts up to three years. Readers are advised to seek expert advice if they believe the Act applies to them.

Case Report Codes

This section explains BUFORA's numbering system for Unidentified Flying Objects (UFO) case reports. Each case is assigned a unique five-digit number, where the first two digits represent the year of the sighting and the last three digits identify the specific report within that year (e.g., 75-100 indicates the 100th report received in 1975). This system does not include information about the day, month, or location of the sighting. BUFORA is developing a computer-based index to improve access to these reports, especially for older cases that may lack numbers. The project also involves repairing damaged reports and binding them into groups of 50.

Aims and Scope of the Journal

The Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena (Journal TAP) aims to provide a forum for scientists and researchers to discuss UFO phenomena, moving beyond speculation to scientific analysis and evaluation. It seeks to offer an international platform for publishing research results, investigations, and statistical analyses, fostering a broad scope and topical comment with scientific rigor. The journal intends to contribute to the knowledge of the cosmos and benefit mankind.

Notes for Contributors

This section outlines guidelines for submitting manuscripts to Journal TAP. Contributions, preferably in English, should be typed double-spaced on A4 paper with wide margins and submitted in duplicate. Authors are encouraged to write concisely and should provide an abstract of around 100 words. Mathematical symbols should be clear, and illustrations should be kept to a minimum, including line drawings and photographs with captions. Tables should be prepared for photo-offset reproduction. References should be quoted in the text and grouped numerically at the end. The Editorial Board reserves the right to seek advice from referees and to accept, revise, or reject manuscripts, with the option to forward unsuitable submissions to the BUFORA Journal. Book reviews and letters are also welcome. Authors are responsible for obtaining necessary permissions for publication, and opinions expressed are those of the contributors, not necessarily those of BUFORA or the journal.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration of unconventional hypotheses regarding life beyond Earth, the systematic cataloging and analysis of UFO phenomena, and the legal and technological aspects of data management. The editorial stance, as indicated by the journal's aims and scope, is to promote rigorous scientific inquiry into UFOs and related phenomena, providing a platform for international researchers to share their findings and contribute to a broader understanding of the cosmos. The inclusion of the Data Protection Act article suggests an awareness of the increasing importance of data security and privacy in research.