UFO Times - No 02 - July 1989

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO TIMES
Issue: Number 2
Date: July 1989
Publisher: A BUFORA PUBLICATION

This issue of UFO Times, published by BUFORA (The British UFO Research Association), delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, with a strong focus on UK-based sightings and research. The cover prominently features the headline "POLICE VIDEO UFOS OVER M1?", suggesting a significant investigation into a reported incident.

Editorial

The editorial, penned by Editor Mike Wootten, addresses the impending European open market in 1992 and questions ufology's preparedness for a more unified European approach to research. Wootten emphasizes the need for collective 'Euro-research' to address the UFO subject on a complete European and global scale, noting that such research is rarely conducted collectively. He highlights the difficulty of overcoming individual researchers' selectivity and the importance of a committed, collective effort, especially with organizations like ICUR preparing to support such needs. The editorial also briefly mentions an advertising company's work in animating hoax photos, urging readers to watch current ITV commercials.

Project Pennine: A Landscape UFO Study in the North of England (Part 1)

Authored by BUFORA Director Dave Clarke, this article begins an in-depth look at the "Project Pennine" investigation. It focuses on the High Peak region of Derbyshire, where the local farming community has a long history of observing strange light phenomena. Despite the regularity of these appearances, residents are reluctant to discuss them, viewing them as something best left alone. Some accounts mention the lights freezing young lambs or appearing every few decades. The article notes that UFO sightings in the Pennines predominantly come from moorland regions and are often "ball of light" phenomena rather than structured craft. The project's origins stem from a group of UFO investigators dissatisfied with conventional ufology, who felt that research was not adequately addressing the areas where UFOs were seen over long periods. They recognized that many reported "UFOs" are purely light-based phenomena. The project aims to collect and collate data on anomalous lights from contemporary reports and traditional folklore, ghostlore, and historical records. This data will be correlated to find significant common elements and made available to researchers. Stage One involves creating a comprehensive database, with Stage Two focusing on correlation and statistical analysis. The ultimate objective is to produce a catalogue of anomalous light phenomena from the Pennine area, accessible to researchers and the scientific community, with the hope of attracting further interest, funding, and establishing a full-time monitoring operation similar to Project Hessdalen.

The article explores the folklore of the Pennine area, noting its connection to beliefs in ghosts, spirits, and nature spirits. It references a 1986 article by Martin Dagless about the Pennine region's predominance of orange "ball of light" (BOL) type sightings, which led to the "Project Pennine" focusing on BOL activity and testing the "Earthlights theory".

The "Dissatisfied" section details the project's conception by investigators seeking to conduct more rigorous research into UFO phenomena, particularly light-based events. The article highlights the "Longdendale Lights" as a prime example of recurring UFO/light phenomena in the High Peak of Derbyshire, with assistance from the Glossop Mountain Rescue Team. Rumours of mysterious happenings in the Longdendale valley, situated between Woodhead and Snake Pass, are passed down through folklore, including tales of ghostly Roman soldiers and mysterious lights.

The "Phantom of the Reservoirs" section discusses persistent stories of phantom lights near the Woodhead Reservoirs on Bleaklow. Rescue teams and Peak Park rangers have been alerted to reports of hikers lost after sightings of "flares", which often turn out to be unexplained lights rather than distress signals. One specific incident in February 1982 involved 25 members of the Glossop Mountain Rescue Team and National Park Rangers searching for a reported "green flare" near Torside Castle, a prehistoric barrow. The area of Bleaklow is described as large, uncrossed by roads, rugged, and inhospitable.

Other reported phenomena include a powerful searchlight-like beam seen in the area of Clough Edge and Bramah Edge, and a string of wandering lights on the craggy heights of Shining Clough. David Frith of the Glossop Mountain Rescue Team is quoted stating frequent calls about these lights, with sightings described as walkers carrying torches or searchlights. Folklore also mentions sightings of Roman soldiers.

The article also notes the Craven hills as another area with frequent UFO/low-level light phenomena, particularly over Carleton and Elslack Moors near a microwave repeater station, and north of Skipton. Local CB-radio enthusiasts refer to these as "flying oranges". UFO investigator Tony Dodd, a police officer, has observed anomalous light phenomena and obtained photographic evidence described by Ground Saucer Watch as "Britain's first confirmed UFO photographs". Other areas mentioned include the Kinder Scout plateau, the Roaches, and Axe Edge Moors near Buxton, which were the site of the "phantom helicopter" mystery in the early 1970s. Part two of this paper is promised for a future issue.

Something Wonderful Over the M1 (A preliminary report by Ken Phillips)

This report details a multiply-witnessed event on Friday, March 4th, 1988, involving strange objects/lights seen from various locations in the NW London area and SW Hertfordshire, from Garston (Junction 6 of the M1) to Rickmansworth, and even Wimbledon. The report is an extract from a larger file, subject to revision.

Report Summary:

On the evening of March 4th, 1988, police stations received numerous calls about strange objects/lights in the early-to-mid-evening sky. Descriptions ranged from "barrage balloons" to "point sources of lights", with one report of an object emitting beams. Hertfordshire Constabulary despatched patrol-car officers to Watford and Rickmansworth, who confirmed sighting bright lights. The report clarifies that the former officer in Watford may have observed planets Venus and Jupiter, which were prominent. However, the officer in Rickmansworth clearly described two bright lights descending, then brightening, with one disappearing and the other accelerating at high speed towards London.

The Hertfordshire Police Headquarters at Welwyn Garden City redirected their traffic-monitoring video camera at M1 Junction 6 to observe the scene. The video, which has a running time-counter but no sound-track, recorded the appearance of a "very bright torroidally-shaped" light on four separate occasions. The lights traversed the screen in diagonal paths, with one remaining static for about 10 seconds. The video also shows two bright lights, identified as planets Jupiter and Venus, setting towards the western horizon, along with M1 illumination lights, distant traffic, and passing aircraft.

The anomalous lights appeared at specific times: the first at 21:14:08 and disappeared at 21:15:48; the second appeared gradually around 21:17:00 and disappeared at 21:21:59; the third appeared at 21:23:05 and vanished at 21:23:33; and the fourth appeared at 21:28:54 and vanished at 21:29:43. Due to standard MOD and police procedures, the names of civilian witnesses were erased from reports, leaving only the two police officers as primary witnesses.

UFO Audience Selected (Exclusive by Mike Wootten)

This section is not detailed in the provided OCR text, but its title suggests a focus on public perception or selection related to UFOs.

Investigation Diary (Edited by Dave Clarke)

This section, edited by Dave Clarke, likely presents a collection of recent UFO investigation findings or case summaries from BUFORA.

Reviews

This section is dedicated to reviews, presumably of books, films, or other media related to UFOs and related topics.

Skywatcher (Edited by Gary Anthony)

Edited by Gary Anthony, this section provides news, views, and reviews related to UFO observation and the "skywatcher" community.

Discovery in UFO Encounter (Jenny Randles)

Authored by Jenny Randles, this article likely details a specific UFO encounter or a discovery made within the context of such an event.

Aspects of New Physics within Ufology (Part 2) (Bill Dillon)

This is the second part of an article by Bill Dillon, exploring the intersection of new physics theories with the study of ufology.

BUFORA and Witness Confidentiality

A statement from BUFORA emphasizes the importance of treating witness cases as confidential, outlining the BUFORA Code of Practice to guarantee care with witness details and case reports. It also states that the magazine will treat material and personal details of witnesses published in the media with care and empathy.

The British UFO Research Association Limited (BUFORA)

Founded in 1964, BUFORA is a limited company registered in London. Its aims include encouraging, promoting, and conducting unbiased scientific research of UFO phenomena in the UK, collecting and disseminating evidence and data, and coordinating UFO research internationally. Membership is open to those who support these aims.

UFOCALL

An advertisement for "UFOCALL" describes it as the first regularly updated national UFO news and information service, available by telephone seven days a week. It reports on the latest sightings reported to BUFORA and discusses current research, also featuring general UFO news, book reviews, and event information.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include detailed investigations of specific UFO sightings in the UK, particularly "ball of light" phenomena and aerial anomalies. There is a strong emphasis on scientific research, data collection, and the importance of rigorous investigation, as exemplified by "Project Pennine" and the "M1 UFO" report. The magazine also touches upon the historical and folkloric aspects of UFO sightings, suggesting a deep-rooted presence of such phenomena in certain regions. The editorial stance promotes a more unified, European-wide approach to UFO research and highlights BUFORA's commitment to witness confidentiality and unbiased scientific inquiry. The inclusion of sections like "Skywatcher" and "Aspects of New Physics within Ufology" indicates a broad scope, covering observational aspects and theoretical connections to scientific advancements.

Title: UFO Times
Issue Date: July 1989
Publisher: UFO Times
Country: UK

This issue of UFO Times delves into various aspects of UFOlogy, featuring a mix of investigative reports, public opinion surveys, astronomical observations, and book reviews. The magazine aims to provide readers with up-to-date information on UFO phenomena and related scientific and cultural topics.

Cover Story: UFO Audience Selected

The cover story, an exclusive report by Mike Wootten, highlights a large oval-shaped object sighted in southwest London in March 1989. This event, initially reported as a potential UFO sighting, was later revealed to be a publicity stunt orchestrated by Richard Branson for the next day's climatic stunt on April Fools' Day. While the stunt caused some police problems and was potentially dangerous, it was noted as being potentially rich in information for UFO research. The British media widely covered the event.

BUFORA Newsclipping Service

An advertisement details the BUFORA Newsclipping Service, which boasts the largest collection of British UFO-related press cuttings in the UK, comprising over 3500 magazine and newspaper clippings. The BUFORA Reference Library contains over 5000 cross-references to aid UFO investigators. Interested parties are invited to write to Michael Hudson at BUFORA Newsclippings in Canterbury, Kent.

Survey: Public Belief in UFOs

A survey conducted by Audience Selection, a national opinion poll agency, polled 1028 people across the UK between March 31st and April 2nd, 1989, on their beliefs about UFOs. The survey found that 7% of respondents believed they had seen a UFO, while 93% had not. When asked if they believed UFOs actually exist, 40% of those who had never seen a UFO responded affirmatively. The survey also noted that 25% of those who had seen a UFO were in the 45-54 age group, and Socio Economic Group DE made up 38% of the 'yes' answers to the first question.

National Investigation Committee (NIC) Convene Report

Mike Wootten reports on a meeting of the National Investigation Committee (NIC) held on May 6th, attended by fifteen members at the London Business School. Key discussions included:

Regressive Hypnosis

The NIC discussed the use of regressive hypnosis and its application in alleged abduction cases, reiterating that such work should only be undertaken by a medically qualified person.

Regional Lectures

The next BUFORA regional lecture was confirmed for November 18th, 1989, at 1 pm at Manchester Central Library.

Possible New Investigators

Several individuals expressed interest in becoming accredited investigators in areas such as Leicester, Doncaster, Knaresborough, Leeds, Northants, London, and Middlesex.

Peter Beard Photo Case

The Barnsley 'UFO' photo case was discussed, and Philip Mantle confirmed the photos to be a hoax. The case file was passed to the research department.

New Accredited Investigator

Mr R. Burton was examined by the NIC and considered sufficiently good to be offered full AI status for the Leicester area.

New Reports

Various new UFO reports came to light after Jenny Randles' appearance on the TV show 'Good Morning'. These reports were circulated to AI investigators for follow-up.

UFOCALL: Help Required

Jenny Randles requested help from members to manage the workload of updating the UFOCALL service.

NIC Case Histories

The next NIC case history to be published will be the Peter Day movie film case. Further publishing projects were discussed.

Date of next NIC meeting

The next NIC meeting will be held during the International Congress in July, with the exact date and time to be arranged.

Recent Case Investigations

This section details several UFO sightings and encounters:

• December 29, 1978: Lower Benefield, Northamptonshire: A retired steelworker observed a bright blue/green light, causing a loss of memory for his daughter and fear in his wife.
• November 11, 1980: Saddleworth Moor, Lancashire: Three witnesses saw a mysterious light, three feet from the ground, pass silently.
• October 28, 1985: Chatsworth Park, Derbyshire: Two witnesses saw a brilliant wheel-shaped object with spoke-like lights, moving silently.
• September 22, 1987: Abbots Bromley, Staffordshire: A multi-witness sighting of a large triangular object with spectacular lighting, possibly a secret military airship.
• October 17, 1987: Handsworth Wood, Birmingham: Two friends observed a dome-shaped, metallic silver object with a red light, experiencing the 'OZ factor'.
• March 2, 1988: Godmanchester, Cambridgeshire: A 12-year-old girl saw a square-shaped object with central bumps and aerials, which left a stench of bad eggs and caused fear.
• May 5, 1988: Barnsley, South Yorkshire: A mother and children saw an elongated egg-shaped object with rotating lights that appeared to follow their car.
• August 26, 1988: Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands: An 18-year-old girl saw a stationary disc-like object hovering between trees, which then floated away.
• December 20, 1988: Ellastone/Mayfield, Staffordshire: A man saw a bright white light shaped like a flat-topped pyramid, experiencing 'OZ factor' effects and physiological symptoms.
• April 4, 1989: Stanage Moor, Derbyshire: Two students saw a strange light that appeared to land on a hillside, then followed their car. Melted snow was found where the object landed.
• April 8, 1989: Corby, Northamptonshire: A retired technician observed a bright stationary light that moved off in a northerly direction.

New NIC Publications

Paul Fuller and Jenny Randles have collaborated on 'Controversy of the Circles', a research book on crop circles, to be launched in July. Additionally, Jenny Randles has edited 'UFO World 1989', a review of international UFO research, also launching in July.

Reviews

The Relativity of Wrong by Isaac Asimov

Mike Wootten reviews Isaac Asimov's 225-page paperback, describing it as a compendium of scientific essays that follow an exponential curve from particles to galaxies. While acknowledging Asimov's extensive knowledge, Wootten notes his tendency to remind the reader of it. The book is considered well-balanced and technical, yet written for the non-technician.

The Circles Effect and Its Mysteries

This section highlights a book by Dr Terence Meaden that discusses extraordinary circles and rings in farmers' fields, linking them to UFO-type balls of light and a generalized plasma-vortex theory. The book is illustrated with photographs and line drawings and includes a section on car-stop events.

Book News

This section discusses the controversy surrounding Gerald Suster's book 'Legacy of the Beast' and its condemnation by the News of the World. It also mentions the London Earth Mysteries Circle's newsletter and the upgrading of 'Strange Phenomena Investigations' newsletter. BUFORA is also publishing the 'UFO Lexicon'.

Author Obituary: Walter Raymond Drake

An obituary for Walter Raymond Drake, a civil servant and author known for his 'Gods and Spacemen' books, who died on April 1st, 1989, aged 76.

Large Stock of Quality and Popular Paperbacks

A list of available paperback books on UFOs and related topics, with prices, is provided.

Skywatcher

This section, edited by Gary Anthony, provides astronomical information. It details the positions and visibility of Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn for July and August 1989. It also lists meteor showers, including the D. Aquarids, Capricornids, and Perseids. A spectacular total lunar eclipse is scheduled for the morning of August 17th, visible from the UK and other regions.

Space News

ESA - A Success Story

This article recounts the history of the European Space Agency (ESA), formed in 1973 from various European space research groups. It highlights the success of the Ariane rocket program, which has enabled Europe to launch 26 missions.

Manned Flights

ESA gained experience in manned spaceflight with the successful launch of Spacelab, the world's first reusable space laboratory, carried aboard a US Space Shuttle in 1983. Of the 38 experiments onboard, twenty-six were conducted.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently covers a wide range of UFO-related topics, from eyewitness accounts and investigative reports to public perception surveys and scientific explanations. There is a strong emphasis on documenting and analyzing UFO cases, with a dedicated section for 'Recent Case Investigations'. The NIC's activities and publications are regularly featured, indicating a focus on organized research. The inclusion of astronomical and space news suggests an interest in the broader scientific context of potential extraterrestrial phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting information and case studies for the reader's consideration, while also acknowledging the need for rigorous investigation and qualified analysis, as seen in the discussion on regressive hypnosis and the debunking of hoaxes.

Title: UFO Times
Issue: 21
Publisher: BUFORA
Country: United Kingdom
Date: Not specified

This issue of UFO Times features a prominent article titled "Discovery in UFO Encounter" by Jenny Randles, which investigates a controversial claim of a UFO sighting by the crew of the NASA space shuttle 'Discovery'. The magazine also includes sections on space exploration, scientific principles related to ufology, and organizational news from BUFORA.

Discovery in UFO Encounter

Jenny Randles reports on a claim that surfaced on March 29, 1989, in the London Evening Standard, alleging that American space experts were assessing stories about a close encounter with a UFO during a NASA space shuttle launch. The story, attributed to former NASA member Bob Oechsler, involves a purported taped conversation between the shuttle pilot, Colonel John Blaha, and the Goddard Space Centre. According to Oechsler, the pilot stated, "Houston..... This is Discovery.... We still have the alien spacecraft under observance." Goddard allegedly instructed the pilot to switch to a classified military frequency.

Oechsler further claimed that the UFO 'impacted' the shuttle and 'effected' the power supply, suggesting a "massive government cover-up of UFOs". The article notes that NASA would likely deny the story. The Daily Star was the only tabloid to carry the headline, "Shuttle Crew Saw Aliens".

Randles expresses skepticism, comparing the voice analysis claim to asking President Nixon to analyze a recording of himself. The story appeared shortly before April Fools' Day, and Richard Branson's subsequent UFO hoax is mentioned as having overshadowed the 'Discovery' claim in the press.

During a TV appearance on "This Morning", Randles discussed the case. The presenter, Richard Madeley, had received the Daily Star with the headline. The decision was made not to discuss the story on air due to insufficient information and the contentious nature of the topic.

The article questions the credibility of the claim, noting that the Star added little new information. The report of the words spoken was also contested, with some suggesting the word used was 'observation' rather than 'observance'. The alleged power loss is contrasted with the mission's reported success and continuation for five more days.

Randles questions the pilot's alleged choice of words, "alien spacecraft," suggesting that a hardened air force officer would use different terminology like 'UFO' or 'Bogey'. The possibility of the term referring to a 'Soviet Spacecraft' is also raised.

BUFORA is monitoring the situation, with potential further developments from MUFON in the USA. The magazine states it will adopt a cautious stance, waiting for more substantial evidence before dedicating front-page coverage.

An editor's comment likens the affair to the opening scene of "Hanger 18" and suggests that if it is a hoax, the perpetrators are not original.

Giotto Encounter

The issue also recounts the 'Giotto Encounter' with Halley's Comet. It mentions that in 1304, the Italian painter Giotto depicted Halley's Comet as the 'Star of Bethlehem'. The Giotto probe was launched on July 2, 1985, via an Ariane 1 rocket. On March 13/14, 1986, it rendezvoused with comet Halley, sending back the first pictures of a comet nucleus to a global audience.

The Future for ESA

Presently, the European Space Agency (ESA) has numerous projects planned for the 1990s, including a new Ariane launcher, the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO), and the CLUSTER program to study space plasma physics. A new spaceplane, HERMES, is also mentioned as part of an extensive program to study the universe.

BUFORA Postal Library and Contact Information

Contact details are provided for investigators requiring astronomical information, specifically Gary Anthony of BUFORA ARP. The BUFORA Postal Library is described as comprehensively stocked and available for loan against a deposit. Information is also given for those interested in this service.

Aspects of New Physics Within Ufology (Part 2)

Bill Dillon continues his paper, presenting "CASE 2: THE INTERACTION WITH MATTER". This case involves a UFO observed on October 31, 1963, near Iguape, Brazil. The UFO, estimated at 25' in diameter and shaped like a "wash basin", made a roaring noise, collided with a palm tree, and fell into the Peropava River. Observers noted the river bubbling and erupting mud, but divers and engineers found no trace of the object. The Lorenzens suggested the object may have departed submerged.

Dillon's interpretation posits that the UFO drew attention by its noise and physical collision, seemingly adhering to Newtonian physics. However, the complete disappearance of the object requires a new physics, possibly involving other dimensions or universes, as suggested by photon duality. He draws a parallel between this incident and 'grass circles' or 'saucer nests', where only the effect on matter is observed, not the event itself.

Dillon contrasts his view with that of Dr. Jacques Vallee, who he believes concluded that UFOs might aim to make humans lose faith in their scientific ability. Dillon, however, feels that UFOs and other paranormal events might be encouraging the human mind towards a path of thinking that will illuminate and transform it. He suggests that the 'Anthropic Principle', which posits consciousness as a fundamental requirement of nature, might explain the alien interest in humanity, viewing us as a valuable cosmic commodity.

He argues that the universe is a quantum (information) universe where consciousness and matter are a coherent whole. If consciousness is detectable, all human thoughts could become public knowledge to cosmic species. He believes that alien entities are not hostile but indifferent, and that the 'step-ladder principle' of knowledgeable species guiding lesser ones towards enlightenment is the best policy.

Conclusion: Man on the threshold of wonders

Dillon concludes that humanity is on the verge of understanding, and that the universe is a vast, ancient, quantum information universe. He suggests that if consciousness is detectable, it could reveal all human thoughts to cosmic species. He believes that alien entities are indifferent and that humanity should focus on understanding the transmission of information rather than fearing harm. He posits that the 'Anthropic Principle' might explain alien interest, as humanity's consciousness makes us a valuable cosmic commodity. The policy should be one of enlightenment, with more knowledgeable species guiding others.

Diary

The diary section lists upcoming events, including the Fifth London International UFO Congress from July 14-16, 1989, and The Leyhunter Moot on August 22-23. It also announces that BUFORA London Lectures will resume in September 1989 and provides details for attending lectures at the London Business School.

Stop Press: Executive Committee Re-shuffle

This section reports on a change in BUFORA's executive committee. Arnold West has resigned as Chairman due to family commitments but will continue as Administration Manager. The committee thanked him for his commitment. Steve Gamble was elected Chairman, and John Spencer became Vice-Chairman.

British Unidentified Flying Object Research Association Lecture Programme 1989/90

A detailed lecture program for BUFORA is provided, listing lectures from September 1989 to June 1990, covering topics such as Abductions, The Bromley Poltergeist, What Proof Do They Want?, Project Pennine, Corn Circles, and Psychic Animals. Regional lectures in Edinburgh, Manchester, Northampton, and Bradford are also listed with dates and topics.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO sightings and encounters, often with a critical or investigative approach, questioning the official narratives and seeking deeper explanations through scientific and philosophical lenses. There is a strong emphasis on the work of BUFORA and its members, promoting lectures, libraries, and congresses. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious inquiry, encouraging readers to think critically about UFO phenomena and their implications for our understanding of the universe and consciousness. The issue also highlights the ongoing efforts in space exploration by ESA and NASA, framing them within the broader context of humanity's quest for knowledge about the cosmos.