UFO Times - No 24 - Jul Aug 1993

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO TIMES
Issue: 24
Date: July/August 1993
Publisher: BUFORA (British UFO Research Association)
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English
ISSN: 0958-4846

Editorial

The editorial, titled "BACK ON SCHEDULE AT LAST!", announces that UFO Times will now be published bi-monthly and on time. The editor, Ken, thanks the members for their patience. He highlights the main feature of this issue: a preamble to the film 'FIRE IN THE SKY', based on the Travis Walton Abduction Case, written by Philip Mantle. The film is highly commended, and readers are encouraged to see it. The editorial also mentions that the 'Quantock Case' feature has been postponed due to space limitations but will be continued in future editions.

Cover Story: FIRE IN THE SKY

The cover story is a preview of the film "FIRE IN THE SKY", a Joe Wizan/Todd Black Production based on the true story of Travis Walton's alleged abduction by a UFO on November 5, 1975, at 5:49 PM in the White Mountains of Northeastern Arizona. The article describes the event: a group of loggers observing a bright light, Travis Walton's curiosity leading him to investigate, and his subsequent disappearance for five days. The film stars D.B. Sweeney, Craig Sheffer, Peter Berg, and Academy Award nominee James Garner. It was produced by Joe Wizan and Todd Black, directed by Robert Lieberman, and features special effects by Industrial Light and Magic. The article emphasizes that the Walton case is one of the best-documented UFO claims, corroborated by multiple witnesses whose stories have not changed. Travis Walton expresses his initial anger at disbelief and later philosophical acceptance of skepticism, stating that people tend to presume the worst. Producer Joe Wizan comments on the story's focus on human character and the inclination to doubt extraordinary events. Screenwriter Tracy Torme describes the film as a study of how a single event can alter a life and explores themes of friendship, betrayal, and forgiveness. Torme investigated the case, interviewing Walton and the other loggers, finding their accounts consistent and believing they were traumatized. Co-producer Robert Strauss notes that Walton avoided discussing the event for years, and his agreement to talk was seen as an omen. Executive producer Wolfgang Glattles asserts that the men's story has remained consistent and is difficult to dismiss as a hoax. The film was released in the UK in June 1993.

A competition is announced, offering a chance to win a soundtrack cassette of 'FIRE IN THE SKY' by answering the question: "In which town in Arizona did Travis Walton live at the time of his encounter in 1975?" The closing date is August 31st, 1993.

Case Report: AROUND THE WORLD IN EIGHTY DAYS (or The Ballooning Alternative to Travel) Part 1

This report details an investigation into two separate incidents involving unidentified objects and commercial aircraft in UK airspace in 1991. The investigation was initiated after a BBC news report in May 1992. The author, initially investigating alone, was advised by BUFORA's Director of Investigations that there were two distinct incidents on different dates. The first investigator contacted the CAA Headquarters in London, while local investigator Diane Eakin contacted Gatwick Air Traffic Control. The Joint Airmiss Section (JAS) at Uxbridge suggested a 'Solar Balloon' hypothesis.

Correspondence:

• A letter from N. G. Pope of the Ministry of Defence (May 5th, 1992) confirms a report from an Al-Italia MD80 pilot on April 21st, 1991, of sighting a "flying object" and suggests contacting the CAA for further information.
• A letter from Group Captain J.E. Maitland of the Joint Airmiss Section (June 15th, 1992) states that neither incident was reported as an airmiss. However, an airmiss report involving an unidentified object (possibly a balloon) was published in the CAA's booklet 'UK Airmisses Involving Commercial Air Transport, May - Aug 1991'. This booklet can be obtained from the CAA Printing & Publication Service.

Extract from UK AIRMISSES INVOLVING COMMERCIAL AIR TRANSPORT, MAY - AUGUST 1991:

• AIRMISS REPORT No75/91 (July 15th, 1991): A B737 pilot inbound to Gatwick reported a small, black, lozenge-shaped object approximately 500m ahead and at the same level. The object passed very close, less than 100 yards away, down the portside and about 30' above the wing level. London Control reported a primary radar contact astern of the B737. No impact or damage was felt or observed. The risk of collision was assessed as high. ATC noted a primary return seen about 10 NM behind the B737, heading SE at about 100 kt, which caused avoiding turns for another aircraft. JAS notes indicate a meteorological balloon was released from Crawley earlier that day, but the object seen by the B737 pilot was considered untraced. The report suggests a possible 'Solar Balloon' hypothesis.
• AIRMISS REPORT No. 51/91 (June 1st, 1991): A B737 pilot inbound to Heathrow reported an object, described as yellow/orange, cylindrical, with a possible 'wrinkled appearance'. The FO saw it for a maximum of 2 seconds, and the pilot for less than 1 second. The object was estimated to be about 10' in size and moving at a high closure rate. The risk of collision was assessed as 'A'. JAS notes that no trace of the object was seen in radar replays. The Meteorological Office confirmed no balloons were released from Beaufort Park on that date, and while a 'polybag' or similar could have been conveyed to altitude, a strong inversion made it improbable. The Working Group considered it unlikely to be a meteorological balloon, suggesting an advertising balloon as a possibility. The incident was described as a confliction with an unidentified object, with a possible risk of collision.

CAPTAIN SCHAFER'S LAST FLIGHT

This article by Pat Otter investigates the mysterious events leading up to the ditching of a single-seat fighter jet, Lightning XS894, from 5 Squadron at RAF Binbrook, on September 8th, 1970. The pilot, American Captain William Schafer, was sent to intercept an unidentified aircraft over the North Sea.

The incident began at 20:17 on September 8th, 1970, when a radar operator at Saxa Vord detected a blip of an unidentified aircraft over the North Sea. The contact was tracked at high speed (630 mph) and altitude (37,000'), then turned south and increased speed to 900 mph (Mach 1.25) and climbed to 44,000'. This prompted a scramble of two Lightning interceptors from RAF Leuchars.

Radar plotters at Saxa Vord observed the contact turn 180° and disappear, calculating its speed must have been around 17,400 mph. The Lightnings were then vectored south. The mystery contact reappeared several times, each time disappearing when the Lightnings were sent to intercept.

Two US Air Force F4 Phantoms from Keflavik, Iceland, with more sophisticated radar, also tracked the object but were equally unable to get close. The contact was monitored by the Ballistic Missile Early Warning System at Fylingdales Moor and a second BMEWS in Greenland, with data relayed to Cheyenne Mountain and Colorado Springs.

At 21:05, after another failed intercept attempt, the contact vanished. The Lightnings returned to base, while the Phantoms continued patrol. At 21:39, the contact reappeared, decelerating to 1,300 mph at 18,000' on a south-westerly heading. Two more Lightnings were scrambled.

As a precaution, two further Lightnings were ordered from Coltishall, Norfolk, to form a CAP. The contact was between these fighter lines. Meanwhile, NORAD was informed that the Strategic Air Command HQ at Omaha was ordering two B52 bombers into the air, indicating the situation had escalated to the highest levels.

NORAD requested that Capt. William Schafer, a USAF pilot on exchange with the RAF at Binbrook, be sent to join the search. Schafer, an experienced fighter pilot with combat experience in Vietnam, took off alone in Lightning XS894 at 22:06. The take-off was unusual, with Schafer rushing out and ordering refuelling lines disengaged without pre-flight checks.

Early the next morning, XS894 ditched in the sea off Flamborough Head. The ditching was witnessed by a Shackleton reconnaissance aircraft, and flares were spotted by a trawler, but no trace of Capt. Schafer was found. The aircraft wreckage was later recovered, and the cockpit was found empty with the canopy closed.

The investigation into the crash was hampered by official secrecy. The author enlisted the help of Bob Bryant, an aviation correspondent, who found that MOD contacts became reticent. Barry Halpenny later published an abridged version of the story. The article notes that a man who was a crash investigator 16 years prior was so intrigued by the incident and the treatment of the investigation team that he was determined to uncover the truth. The author states that the mystery surrounding XS894 and Capt. Schafer's disappearance is still not fully resolved, and the report relies on information from various sources, some of which cannot be corroborated.

Ed's comment acknowledges the fascinating nature of the story but states it cannot be verified. The conclusion of this fascinating account will be published in UT25.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO sightings, investigations, and related phenomena, as evidenced by the cover story on the Travis Walton case and the detailed reports on UK airmisses involving unidentified objects. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry and scientific research into the UFO phenomenon, as promoted by BUFORA. There is a strong emphasis on witness confidentiality and careful handling of case material. The magazine also covers aviation incidents that may have UFO connections, such as the Captain Schafer case, and reviews films related to UFO experiences. The publication aims to provide a platform for researchers and enthusiasts to share information and discuss findings, while maintaining a commitment to accuracy and thorough investigation.

This issue of THE EUROPEAN DIMENSION, extracted from Eurufon News No3, April 1991, presents a collection of UFO-related accounts and analyses. The magazine covers strange manifestations in the sky in Belgium and a notable abduction case in Ashland, USA, alongside discussions on crop circles and ancient astronauts.

Belgium - Strange Manifestations in the Sky

This section details a case communicated by Thierry Veyt of the Belgium group GEPSI. The account is from an officer and his wife who observed unusual aerial phenomena on December 11th, 1989, near Gembloux Station. As night fell, with a starry sky and a full moon, they noticed a series of three or four panels of light arranged in a north-south direction, moving from the MELLERY radar tower area above the villages of CORTIL and SAINT GERY, heading towards CORROY. These panels of light remained steady, with a gyrating red light beneath them, distinct from the flashing lights of conventional aircraft. The estimated height of the panels was 200 to 300 meters. The object followed their car at a speed of 50 to 60 Km/h as they turned towards GEMBLOUX. The witness stopped the car to continue observation, and the UFO moved past them. Subsequently, the object directed itself towards them with a single, enormous white headlight, described as larger than an airliner's, causing apprehension due to its aggressive appearance and the complete absence of engine noise. The machine was silent. After this, the large light disappeared, replaced by three white headlights forming a triangle, with a gyrating red light at its center. The object performed a 180° turn to its left, a maneuver described as majestic and slow, yet tight. The light sources then disappeared, leaving only the red light, which rapidly moved into the SSW direction. The entire observation lasted an estimated 5 to 8 minutes. The officer noted four characteristics: the UFO's initial slowness contrasted with its rapid displacement at the end; the outline of the mass was not visible and did not reflect moonlight; the complete lack of motor noise; and the fear induced by the enormous lights. The witness's wife experienced significant fear and apprehension.

Belgium - The Flying Ball of Quevaucampps

Narrated by Patrick Vidal, this section recounts an observation from May 1989, predating the wave of UFOs in Belgium. The witnesses, a couple, observed a strange light moving in the sky near QUEVAUCAMPS, BELOEIL, on the night of Thursday, May 4th (Ascension) or Friday, May 5th. The object was moving towards them, emitting a yellowish light, more pronounced than a full moon, giving it a yellowish-white appearance in the clear sky. The light was not blinding and not in a beam, allowing easy examination of the machine, which was circular with a diameter of 2.5 to 3 times that of the moon. It moved silently without leaving a trail. As the object passed overhead, the witnesses perceived a faint trembling, similar to leaves in an orchard. They observed three large circles arranged in an equilateral triangle, two in front and one at the rear, near the periphery. The distance between the front circles allowed for the placement of three smaller circles on each edge. Between the front circles, a thin line was visible, and behind it, an indescribable marbling-effect extended from the center towards the rear circle. The object passed quickly. The witnesses noted the absence of flashing red-green lights typical of ordinary aircraft. The speed of the object was clearly inferior to that of military aircraft, and it was suggested that it might have been flying low to avoid radar detection at Glons or Cambrai. The flight path suggested it came from the region of SOISSON LAON and headed towards Ath.

Alien Encounters: The Winged Serpent of Ashland

Authored by Gordon Millington, this article details the case of Sergeant Herbert Schirmer of the Ashland, Nebraska police department, which occurred on December 3rd, 1967. Schirmer, described as a man of strong character, was the youngest chief of police in Ashland. While on duty, he observed a number of red lights that resolved into an oval object hovering above the road. His next conscious memory was of the craft glowing and rising, emitting a high-pitched sound. He experienced temporary paralysis and drove to his office, feeling weak. He noted in his log book that he saw a flying saucer. A time lapse of twenty minutes was unaccounted for. Schirmer later revealed he felt a tingling sensation and pain behind his ear, where a red welt with tiny holes developed. For three weeks, he suffered severe headaches and disturbing dreams. Under hypnosis, conducted by Dr. Leo Sprinkle at the behest of the Condon Committee, Schirmer recalled that the UFO exerted a traction that towed his car uphill. Two entities emerged from the UFO, one projecting a green glow that induced a trance. Schirmer exited his car and awaited them. The entities were described as about five feet tall, wearing tight-fitting suits with head coverings and boots. Schirmer produced a drawing of one abductor, noting enlarged, cat-like pupils and a small device over the left ear, and a patch with a winged serpent insignia over the right shoulder. One entity asked if he was the 'watchman', to which Schirmer agreed. He was then taken into the UFO and shown spinning drums producing a variety of colors, described as a power source for 'reversible electrical magnetism'. He was shown a hologram of a sun with six planets, said to be the ufonauts' home system, suggesting an extraterrestrial origin. The abductor told him, "One day you, yourself, will see the universe as I have seen it." Vallée considered this dialogue the most significant event in Schirmer's life. Timothy Good quotes Schirmer's abductors stating they had been observing humanity for a long time and that releasing reports and having contacts state the truth would help them, but they had no pattern for contacting people, making it pure chance. They also aimed to puzzle people and confuse the public mind.

The article discusses the classification of UFO occupant behaviors, with Villas-Boas' case being 'GENETIC' and Schirmer's 'APOCALYPTIC'. The winged serpent symbol is linked to ancient astronauts and myths, with scholars like Erich von Däniken and John Michell suggesting a connection between ancient civilizations, gods, and UFOs. The article lists archaeological anomalies like the Pyramids, Nazca lines, and Stonehenge as potential evidence for ancient astronaut theories. It poses the question of whether the Ashland ufonauts are Ancient Astronauts or their descendants, or if they wish to be perceived as such. The ufonauts claimed their purpose included obtaining electricity from a nearby source.

Further details from the Schirmer case include the concept of a 'gravity-reversing shaft' and the phrase 'reversible electric magnetism'. James McCampbell noted that UFOs appear to defy gravity and behave without inertia, which can be explained by the control of gravitational forces. Dr. Leo Sprinkle dedicated his career to studying abduction cases after being impressed by Schirmer's account. The article mentions other cases of car disappearance and teleportation, and the phenomenon of mental control by ufonauts. The vision of an alien solar system is considered potentially too advanced for Schirmer's mind at the time, suggesting it might relate to his dreams. The Aveley abductees also reported seeing holographic videos of an alien world.

The article contrasts Schirmer's experience with that of Antonio Villas-Boas, noting that Villas-Boas' constraints were physical, while Schirmer's were psychological or psychic. The green ray's effect might have been due to suggestion rather than physical influence. The UFO had made reconnaissance visits before Schirmer's abduction, with his brother as an alternative choice, suggesting a selection process based on desirable criteria. The article questions why different abduction techniques were employed in the two cases.

It is noted that while Villas-Boas was not afraid and resisted physically, Schirmer, being tired and more sophisticated, was more vulnerable to psychological influence. The article suggests that Schirmer's strong self-concept and vigorous resistance to aggression might have precluded purely physical approaches, making him an unsuitable choice for certain types of interaction, but perhaps his youth, strength, and attractiveness made him a candidate for the female ufonaut's wishes.

The article also touches upon other cases, including a woman in Quilmes, Argentina, a boy in Venado Tuerto, and a pensioner in Aldershot, England, who was rejected from a UFO due to being "too old and infirm." The Socorro, New Mexico UFO bore an Arabic symbol for Venus, and the Tioja City, New York UFO occupants claimed to be from Mars. The pilot of a 1987 Houston 'airship' UFO stated they were "from anywhere." The Condon Report classified the Schirmer case as "unexplained."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue explores several recurring themes in ufology, including the nature of UFOs and their occupants, the possibility of extraterrestrial visitation, and the psychological impact of encounters. The magazine presents detailed witness accounts and analyses, suggesting a serious investigation into the phenomenon. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various cases and theories without definitive conclusions, but with a clear interest in the subject matter. The discussion of ancient astronauts and the interpretation of symbols like the winged serpent indicates a willingness to explore unconventional explanations for historical and cultural phenomena. The magazine also highlights the importance of research and documentation, as seen in the reviews of books and the promotion of UFO organizations and conferences.

BUFORA Publications and Events

The magazine includes advertisements for BUFORA (British UFO Research Association) publications, such as books and magazines, and details about upcoming events like the Seventh International UFO Congress at the University of Bristol in July 1993. It also lists contact information for BUFORA (Ireland) and advertises UFO Newsline and UFOCALL, a telephone service for UFO news and cases. The "Readers Write" section features correspondence on topics like anagrams in UFO messages and a UFO review video. A "Contact Corner" section invites readers to connect with BUFORA members. The "Diary" section lists forthcoming lectures and meetings, including those organized by BUFORA London.

Book Reviews

Two book reviews are featured: "Round in Circles" by Jim Schnabel, which critically examines the people behind the crop circle phenomenon, and "Farewell Good Brothers," a review of a TV-Channel 4 documentary featuring American Contactees from the 1950s, such as George Adamski, George King, and George Van Tassel. The review of "Round in Circles" highlights its focus on the researchers and entrepreneurs involved in the crop circle craze, rather than the circles themselves, and suggests it debunks many self-appointed gurus. The review of "Farewell Good Brothers" describes the documentary's use of archive film and recent interviews, noting the unusual claims of George King, who founded the Aetherius Society and proclaimed himself the "Voice of Interplanetary Parliament." The review also mentions Daniel Fry, William Hamilton, and Robert Short, and credits Robert Stone as the film's producer, director, and editor.

UFO Times Editorial Stance

The editorial content, particularly in the "Readers Write" section, expresses a skeptical view towards anagrams used to decipher 'messages' from alleged extraterrestrials, with the editor advising readers to focus on verifiable facts rather than speculative interpretations. The magazine, however, consistently presents UFO-related cases and research, indicating a commitment to exploring the phenomenon.