UFO Times - No 45 - Oct 1997 FINAL

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOTIMES
Issue: 45
Date: September/October 1997
Publisher: THE BRITISH UFO RESEARCH ASSOCIATION (BUFORA)

This issue of UFOTIMES, the journal of BUFORA, presents a refreshed editorial approach under new editor Dave Newton. The magazine aims to balance serious research with engaging content for its members. Key features include an article by Paul Devereux on Earthlights and UFOs, a new regular columnist Kevin McClure focusing on 'Abduction Watch', and a sky watch column by Alastair McBeath.

Editorial

New editor Dave Newton outlines his vision for UFOTIMES, promising a new approach with new features while maintaining the core of the journal. He highlights major contributions from Paul Devereux and introduces Kevin McClure as a regular columnist. Newton addresses a common criticism about the text size, promising to increase it, which may affect image space. He also discusses BUFORA's policy meeting, emphasizing the need to retain integrity and a cautious approach, and to value members by making them feel part of the organization. The editorial stresses the importance of UFO Times as a showcase for research and a point of contact for members, with plans to promote local events and regional lectures. Newton aims to get the magazine back on a regular bimonthly schedule.

News: NASA's "INVASION" OF MARS CONTINUES

This section reports on NASA's Mars Pathfinder mission, which landed on July 4th and deployed the Sojourner rover. The spacecraft, renamed Sagan Memorial Station, is equipped with instruments to analyze the Martian environment and has been relaying images back to Earth. The article notes that Pathfinder began sending pictures almost immediately after landing, which were broadcast live. The Mars Global Surveyor spacecraft is also mentioned as starting its mapping mission in September. Interest is high in the Cydonia region, particularly the 'Face on Mars' and pyramid-like structures, with high-resolution imaging expected to shed light on their nature. The ongoing analysis of Martian meteorites for signs of life is discussed, with scientists considering the possibility of primitive life on Mars millions of years ago, supported by data from space probes.

A peculiar incident involving Richard Hoagland's theory about artificial structures on Mars is detailed. After Hoagland pointed out features in a Pathfinder photograph that appeared artificial, a user named Desiree Holloway noticed a small circular object. Later, the image she downloaded from a Sun Microsystems mirror site was replaced with a grainy, low-quality version. An Internet user reported that 28 images from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory's Mars Pathfinder newsletter were missing, jumping from #81991 to #81963.

In a separate development, three men from Yemen have filed a lawsuit against NASA, claiming ownership of Mars and demanding that NASA cease activities and not disclose details about the planet until a Yemeni court rules on their claim, which they base on inheritance from their ancestors 3,000 years ago.

Santilli Autopsy Footage

Dr. Roger Leir of MUFON reports that Ray Santilli has provided a sample of the infamous autopsy footage for analysis. Four frames of the original film stock have been given for chemical analysis and dating. The results and any remaining frames will be returned to Santilli without public disclosure.

Sightings Reports

Solomon Islands, South Pacific: Reports describe a domed saucer-shaped UFO seen frequently. Island residents aiming flashlights at the saucer reported bursts of heat, resulting in burns. The object is described as fast-moving, about 13 feet in diameter, and has been seen entering a waterfall.

Mirandela, Portugal: Witnesses reported a "marigold-shaped" UFO. Portuguese UFOlogist Joao Cardoso identified this as laser lights from a machine used to attract visitors to an exposition, projected onto low cloud.

Gisborne, New Zealand: Two men observed a UFO moving slowly from the south, described as "like a star" with blinding colors and moving too fast to be a satellite.

Bucharest, Romania: Air traffic controllers at Otopeni Airport spotted a "light phenomenon" hovering about 800 ft above the ground in broad daylight. Airport security forces and the Romanian Army antiaircraft battalion were put on alert.

Santiago, Chile: A radio show caller reported unusual lights in the sky described as "glowing, turning on and off very slowly" and making "very fast movements." Over thirty people witnessed the lights for several hours.

Later, a bus carrying 42 passengers near Antofagasta lost electrical power. Passengers reported seeing four lights: three round ones and a cigar-shaped object, all changing colors from violet to orange to intense silver-white. The cigar-shaped object moved, while the round objects remained still.

Canada: A Canadian UFO flap began on July 15th with a sighting of a pencil-like object over Lake Huron. Over the following weeks, UFOs were sighted in Ontario, Manitoba, and British Columbia. An amateur astronomer in Barrie, Ontario, observed an unusual meteor that made a sound, described as a "rushing noise and a series of pop, pop, pop noises, like an out of tune car engine backfiring."

Heads Up! The Night Sky: October to December 1997

By Alastair McBeath, this column provides a guide to celestial events for the upcoming months. It notes that Venus will be prominent in the southwestern sky after dusk in October, potentially triggering UFO reports due to its brightness and low altitude. Mars and Antares will also be visible. Jupiter will be low to the southwest, and Saturn to the southeast. The column details lunar phases and planetary positions for October, November, and December, noting that Venus and Mars will be visible for longer in November, and in December, Venus and Mars will be closer to Jupiter. The column also mentions the possibility of swift, bright meteors around October 21st, and occasional slow fireballs from the Taurid meteor showers. The Leonid shower is expected around November 17-18, and the Geminid shower is most likely around December 12-14. The article notes that the full moon this year will reduce meteor visibility.

TANGLED IN THE NET: LITS, Earth Lights and Hynek

By Paul Devereux, this article discusses the author's promotion of the "earth lights" line of inquiry, which often meets resistance from subscribers to ufological lists. Devereux argues that many American ufologists have read little literature on the subject. He plans to address this shortfall in his forthcoming book "UFOs & Ufology" and an article in Fortean Times. The article focuses on an exchange with subscriber Jerry Cohen regarding lights-in-the-sky (LITS) being the most common type of UFO report. Devereux presents J. Allen Hynek's classifications of UFOs and revised Blue Book statistics, where "Nocturnal lights" and "Daylight Discs" account for a significant percentage of unknowns. Devereux posits that earth lights, being a form of plasma, could potentially account for these categories, suggesting they could explain up to 87% of reports if combined with radar-visual and radar sightings. He cites the work of You-Suo Zou on the Project Hessdalen data, which revealed a helical structure in light traces, indicative of a plasma vortex. Devereux addresses the question of how earth lights relate to "daylight disks," explaining that plasma in daylight can appear shiny and metallic, and may have spherical, ovoid, or discoid forms. He also mentions "pitch black objects" that seem to absorb light, which might relate to earth lights.

BUFORA Policy Meeting

The BUFORA held a policy meeting in London, focusing on retaining integrity and a cautious approach to maintain its reputation. The organization also aims to ensure members feel valued and supported, with UFO Times playing a role in showcasing research and fostering connection among members. Plans include promoting local events and regional lectures.

BUFORA Awards

At the 1997 International Congress in Sheffield, David Sankey received the Investigator of the Year award, and Judith Jaafar was recognized for her investigative work and contribution to the Witness Support Group.

HYPNOSIS STUDY

By Steve Gamble, Director of Research. This section discusses the use of hypnotic regression in recovering memories of UFO experiences. BUFORA acknowledges potential dangers and the suspect nature of data collected through this method, and has instructed its investigators not to use regression. However, recognizing that other groups and individuals still use it, BUFORA's Research section is conducting a review of the evidence for and against hypnotic regression in UFO investigations. They are seeking input from researchers, investigators, witnesses, and external experts, with the aim of producing a report with recommendations based on best practice. Data submissions are requested by December 31st, 1997.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the exploration of Mars and potential extraterrestrial life, the phenomenon of Earthlights and their connection to UFO sightings, and the critical examination of investigative techniques like hypnotic regression. The editorial stance, as articulated by new editor Dave Newton, is one of cautious optimism, aiming to uphold BUFORA's reputation for serious research while making the journal more accessible and engaging for its members. There is a clear emphasis on evidence-based investigation and a critical approach to interpreting phenomena, particularly concerning lights in the sky and the potential for misidentification. The magazine also highlights the importance of witness confidentiality and the need for accurate reporting and analysis within the field of ufology.

This issue of UFO Times from September/October 1997 features a deep dive into the phenomenon of 'earth lights' and other unusual aerial sightings, particularly focusing on the Longdendale Valley in the UK. The magazine questions the prevailing focus on the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH) and explores alternative explanations rooted in physics and natural phenomena.

Earth Lights and Alternative Explanations

The lead articles challenge the traditional UFO narrative, suggesting that many sightings, especially those involving lights, might be explained by 'earth lights' – phenomena potentially related to macro-quantal events. The magazine highlights research suggesting that plasmas, a state of matter, can produce radar echoes and visible light, thus accounting for radar-visual cases and bright lights observed in the sky. The text posits that these phenomena, rather than alien spacecraft, could be the key to understanding a significant portion of UFO reports.

The Case for Earth Lights

Paul Devereux, in an article referencing his work, discusses the characteristics of earth lights and suggests they may be 'macro-quantal events.' He critiques the persistent, yet unfulfilled, search for definitive proof of the ETH, arguing that the field of ufology needs a paradigm shift. Devereux implies that the focus on Roswell and crashed discs has become a metaphor for an 'intellectual desert' regarding the ETH.

Phantoms of the Skies

Beyond earth lights, the magazine acknowledges other mysterious aerial phenomena that are neither earth lights nor ET craft, referred to as 'true phantoms of the skies.' An account of a 1953/4 sighting of a large dirigible airship is presented as an example of such a phenomenon, which could not be explained by contemporary technology.

Hynek's Perspective

The issue touches upon the late J. Allen Hynek's interest in earth lights, noting his conviction in 1985 that the Hessdalen lights represented something important for ufology. The article suggests that had Hynek lived longer, he might have steered mainstream ufology away from an exclusive focus on the ETH.

Re-Inventing Ufology

A strong argument is made for the need to 'reinvent ufology.' The author contends that after 50 years, the ETH case has not been definitively proven and that a more strategic approach, complementing individual case studies, is necessary. This involves looking at the UFO enigma anew, acknowledging that the ETH might be emotionally appealing but not necessarily the correct explanation.

Scientific and Physical Considerations

Notes provide scientific context, defining quantum mechanics and plasmas. It is explained that 'macro-quantal' events are phenomena behaving with quantum mechanics aspects but at the scale of classical physics. Plasmas are described as ionized gases that are electrically neutral but highly conductive, capable of supporting nuclear fusion reactions.

The Longdendale Valley: A Hotspot of Mystery

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the Longdendale Valley in the Peak District, England, described as one of Northern England's most active 'window areas' for 'Ball of Light' phenomena. Project Pennine, an independent study, has identified this area as a prime location for establishing a permanent UFO observation site.

Witness Accounts from Longdendale

Several compelling witness accounts are detailed:

• Laverne Marshall and Stacey: Described a terrifying drive in February 1995 where four or five bright balls of light appeared on their car's dashboard, moved to the roof, and then regrouped, lasting for seven minutes.
• Sean Wood: Reported seeing large, pulsating balls of light above the moors near his home since 1982, describing them as bright and clear, sometimes appearing in strings.
• Jean Whitehead: The previous owner of Bleak House also reported similar lights hovering over the mountains and reservoirs.
• Joyce Buckley: The warden of Crowden Youth Hostel witnessed a brilliant light shining through the windows, which lasted for three minutes and 25 seconds.
• John Davies: A veteran railwayman recounted an encounter in the 1950s with a large, black, whale-like object with a white eye, described as a 'big black slug' moving across the road.

Folklore and Local Legends

The Longdendale Valley is steeped in folklore, with 'Devil's Bonfires' and 'T'Owd Lad' (the devil) being local names associated with the mysterious lights. Stories link these phenomena to phantom Roman soldiers and ancient legends, contributing to the area's eerie reputation.

The Blue Light Zone

Barbara Drabble, a teacher, recounted an experience in July 1970 where she drove through an 'invisible curtain' that bathed the valley in a 'brilliant blue light.' This light was brighter and harsher than daylight and caused an intense cold sensation. Similar experiences were reported by others in the area.

Investigations and Theories

Local police and mountain rescue teams have investigated numerous reports, often finding no trace of the phenomena. Theories proposed include aircraft landing lights, the Holme Moss TV transmitter, marsh gas ('Will o'the Wisp'), ball lightning, and 'earthlights' caused by geological faultlines. However, none fully explain the range and nature of the sightings.

Case Investigations: Black Triangles and Other Sightings

The magazine also documents recent sightings of 'black triangles,' described as hovering silently with red navigation lights and white or orange strobing lights. These reports, generating about 10% of BUFORA's sightings, are being investigated in conjunction with the UK Stealth Study Group, with speculation that they could be new prototypes of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) or secret military testing.

Specific Sightings Detailed:

• Woodcote, Near Reading (May 26, 1997): An object with triangular patterns of brilliant ruby red and white lights was observed moving slowly with a pulsing roar.
• A46, Near Alcester, Warwickshire (August 5, 1997): Two friends witnessed a large, silent, triangular object with neon lights and a bright orange underside, described as having a 'steel girder' appearance.
• Staintondale, Near Scarborough, N. Yorks (April 19/26, 1997): No specific details are provided for this sighting.

BUFORA Activities and Future Events

The issue includes updates on BUFORA's activities, including the Postal Training Course (PTC) and the introduction of a new Standard Form for profiling close encounter witnesses. Upcoming events include the National Investigations Committee (NIC) meeting in November 1997 and a proposed two-day mini-conference for BUFORA investigators and researchers in May/June 1998.

Introduction to Sighting Reports: CIA's Role

A section discusses the CIA's role in UFO research from 1947-1990, quoting a report that suggests over half of UFO reports from the late 1950s and 1960s were accounted for by manned reconnaissance flights, such as the U-2 aircraft. This deception, it is argued, fueled conspiracy theories and cover-up controversies.

Arthur C. Clarke's perspective on the idea of the US government possessing alien spacecraft is also mentioned, dismissing it as highly improbable due to the short 'half-life' of such secrets.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the re-evaluation of the ETH in ufology, the exploration of 'earth lights' as a potential explanation for many sightings, and the detailed investigation of specific UFO cases, particularly those in the Longdendale Valley. The editorial stance appears to favor a more scientific and open-minded approach to UFO research, encouraging a move away from a singular focus on extraterrestrial visitation towards a broader understanding of anomalous aerial phenomena and their potential natural or technological origins. There is a clear emphasis on empirical evidence and scientific inquiry, even while acknowledging the persistent mystery surrounding many sightings.

Title: UFO Times
Issue: September/October 1997
Publisher: BUFORA
Country: United Kingdom

This issue of UFO Times presents a collection of UFO and UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) reports, investigations, book and film reviews, and commentary on the broader UFOlogy landscape. It features detailed accounts of sightings, personal experiences, and critical analysis of the phenomenon and its researchers.

Reported Sightings and Encounters

The magazine details several specific sightings from the UK and Germany:

• North Yorkshire Sighting: On an unspecified date, SP and her boyfriend witnessed a red/orange ball of light moving erratically, followed by eight coloured lights forming a triangular object. A distinctive, deep, muffled, wobbly sound was heard, likened to underwater noise. The proximity to Fylingdales was noted.
• Tadworth, Surrey Sighting (April 21, 1997): SC and her husband were awoken by a rumbling noise overhead, described as 'a giant boy on a giant skate board'. The curtains moved as if by wind. The following morning, they discovered black silt around their house and workshop, which appeared to have been lifted from their gutters.
• Carlisle, Cumbria Sighting (August 4, 1997): MM, a care assistant, observed an object described as similar to copper pans, moving erratically, hovering, dropping, and then shooting up in a zig-zag fashion. The observation lasted less than a minute.
• World War II Sighting (March 26, 1945): A former RAF pilot reported seeing a pink light ahead while flying over the Ruhr river at 17,000 feet. He described it as a ball about 5/6 feet in diameter, passing him at high speed.
• Guilford, Surrey Case (January/February 1989): Investigator Gloria Dixon documents the case of Marcia Hill, who, at 12 years old, saw a white, long-fingered figure crouching in her garden. This incident was followed by recurring nightmares and a change in her personality. Her mother also reported seeing an iridescent red ball of light.
• Maidstone, Kent Experience (Winter 1968): Elizabeth, Marcia's mother, reported seeing a fluorescent tube-like object moving slowly at tree height, which then hovered silently.
• West Yorkshire Experience (Summer/Autumn 1982): Joanne Woods reported experiencing paralysis and a distorted visual perception of her room ('like looking through a jellyfish'). This was accompanied by a loss of TV reception for her husband.
• Second Incident (later in 1982): Joanne Woods experienced a similar paralysis and fear, waking to find dirt on her hands and feet and scratches, with a scar on her leg.
• March 1990 Incident: Joanne Woods and her daughter Jade experienced a light and paralysis. Jade exhibited seizure-like symptoms, initially diagnosed as epilepsy but later increasing in frequency.
• Upper Cwmbran, South Wales Sighting (Summer 1968): Jill R, aged twelve, witnessed two lights approaching, followed by a metallic oval object hovering very low, described as a blur of colours and spinning.
• Shropshire Sighting (December 14/15, 1996): Investigator David Pointon documented a case where Mrs. F experienced a buzzing feeling, paralysis, and saw red and blue lights. She then saw a black, 3ft tall figure with large eyes and a grinning mouth, and later, two other figures.
• Manchester Sighting (Early December 1996): Investigator Penny Hoyte reported on Mrs. C, who experienced a bright light, heard voices, and felt a sharp pain in her side. She then encountered a 3ft tall black figure with unusual facial features and felt touched by other figures.

'Abduction Watch' Column

Kevin McClure, author of "The Fortean Times Book of the Millennium" and editor of "Promises and Disappointments," contributes a regular column, "Abduction Watch." In this issue, he critically examines the Heaven's Gate cult deaths as a tragic example of misplaced trust. McClure expresses concern about the 'abduction industry,' warning that some researchers may exploit vulnerable individuals for fame and money. He describes 'visitors' as potentially intrusive, immoral, perverted, and sadistic, comparing their actions to those of historical dictators. He advocates for sensitive investigation of abduction accounts rather than simply collecting them, questioning whether the phenomenon originates from alien or human sources.

Book Reviews

• "MIB - Investigating the Truth Behind the Men In Black Phenomenon" by Jenny Randles: The review praises the book for its comprehensive look at the Men in Black (MIB) phenomenon, tracing its history and exploring UK cases. It suggests that government departments may be involved in sending MIB-style visitors to witnesses.
• "The Truth About Alien Abductions" by Peter Hough and Moyshe Kalman: This book is described as a serious attempt to rationalize UFO abductions from both UFOlogical and medical perspectives. It discusses hypnosis, false memory syndrome, and psychiatric disorders. The authors' conclusion suggests that UFO phenomena might be intrusions from other dimensions or a form of communication from an alien intelligence.
• "The Field Guide to Extraterrestrials" by Patrick Huyghe: The review notes the book's dual nature as both a scholarly assessment and a source of amusement. It highlights the bizarre alien creatures depicted and suggests that the book provides a valuable overview of UFO/entity reports over 50 years.
• "Flying Triangle UFOs - The Continuing Story" by Omar Fowler: This is a follow-up report detailing witness accounts and analysis of 'Flying Triangle' UFOs.

Film Review

• "Men In Black" (1997): The film is praised for its entertainment value, acting, humor, and special effects. The review clarifies that while it features aliens, it is primarily a 'cops'n'robbers' film and not a deep exploration of the UFO phenomenon itself.

Music Review

• "Made from Technetium" by Man... or Astroman?: This is a brief mention of a guitar band influenced by science fiction and UFOs.

Competition

A competition is announced to win copies of the film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind - Special Edition" on video, with questions related to the movie.

Contact Information

Readers are invited to send letters for publication to BUFORA's Editorial/Northern Office and are encouraged to submit case files for investigation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the UFO and UAP phenomenon through witness accounts, investigative reports, and critical analysis. There is a clear interest in documenting sightings and unusual experiences, but also a cautious approach, particularly regarding abduction claims, as highlighted by Kevin McClure's column. The reviews of books and films indicate a broad engagement with UFO-related culture and research. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging reader participation while maintaining a critical perspective on the interpretation and potential exploitation of UFO experiences. The magazine also touches upon the historical aspects of UFOlogy and the potential for interdimensional or multidimensional explanations for the phenomenon.

Title: UFO Times
Issue: September/October 1997
Publisher: BUFORA
Country: UK
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of UFO Times delves into internal controversies within the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA), focusing on the methods and ethics of UFO investigation. It features a critical letter from a member, responses from investigators, and discussions on sensitive topics like trespassing on military sites and the use of hypnosis.

Letters and Debates

A Member's Critique of BUFORA's Direction

Margaret Coomber, a BUFORA member and investigator, expresses her dismay regarding a BUFORA conference presentation by Matthew Williams. She criticizes Williams for openly trespassing on Ministry of Defence land at RAF Bentwaters and gaining access to a secure facility. Coomber asserts that military bases commonly have underground facilities for protection and that Williams' actions were an unauthorized incursion, which could be construed as neglect of duty given the terrorist threat. She argues that such behavior, if condoned by BUFORA, could damage the UFO movement's credibility and lead to a withdrawal of support from authorities. Coomber also touches upon the military's role in identifying aerial incursions and the historical tendency of governments to cover up information, suggesting that while cover-ups are expected, investigators should focus on revealing facts rather than becoming obsessed with the act of covering up.

The "Abduction" Debate

Mike Lewis, an investigator with 26 years of experience, writes in defense of using the term "abduction" to categorize reports of witnesses being taken by non-human entities, or experiencing time loss. He argues that BUFORA's decision to replace this term with the more general "close encounter experiences" is counterproductive, potentially signaling to witnesses that their claims are not taken seriously and hindering cooperation. Lewis believes that "abductions" are a distinct phenomenon that needs to be addressed directly, and criticizes BUFORA's rules against using hypnotic regression, suggesting it could be a valuable tool for probing these events, despite the risks of false memory syndrome. He advocates for facing the issue directly, rather than shying away from it due to political correctness.

BUFORA's Official Response on Terminology and Hypnosis

Gloria Dixon, responding to Mike Lewis' letter, clarifies that the directive to use "close encounter experiences" and the moratorium on regressive hypnosis were democratic decisions made and voted upon by the BUFORA National Investigations Committee (NIC). She states that the NIC is a democratic body reflecting the investigators' views. Dixon disagrees with Lewis' assertion that the new terminology is unhelpful, arguing that "close encounter experience" (CE4 category) encompasses a broader range of strange events, including time discrepancies and altered states, and that using "abduction" might be equally misleading. She emphasizes that all witness claims are taken seriously and investigated with care, objectivity, and integrity. Dixon also expresses concern about the potential dangers of using hypnosis, including the risk of false memories, legal implications, and the well-being of the witness, citing a case from West Yorkshire where hypnosis by another organization caused severe problems for witnesses.

Broader Perspectives on UFOs and Contact

Jason Burek submits a letter seeking to understand how belief in UFOs affects the lives of BUFORA members, posing several questions about their personal experiences, confidence, optimism, and social interactions within the UFO community.

Roger Walters also contributes a letter, expressing his belief in the possibility of extraterrestrial life and the potential for communication and technology sharing with advanced alien races. He acknowledges that encounters might involve an initial reaction of attack or defense but hopes for a peaceful relationship.

Editor's Comment

The editor provides a brief comment, stating that BUFORA does not condone illegal activities like trespassing. The editor acknowledges that UFOs are of defense interest and that Nick Redfern's work at the Public Records Office may uncover more information. The editor contrasts Redfern's approach with breaking into air bases to find "magical UFO files," suggesting the latter is unhelpful.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue highlights a tension within BUFORA between rigorous, ethical investigation and the pursuit of sensational claims. There's a clear editorial stance against illegal activities like trespassing on military property, emphasizing the importance of maintaining credibility and operating within the law. The debate over terminology ("abduction" vs. "close encounter") and investigative methods (hypnosis) reveals differing approaches within the organization. The magazine also touches upon the broader themes of government secrecy, the possibility of extraterrestrial life, and the challenges of investigating unexplained phenomena in a responsible and objective manner.