CUFORG - Vol 2 No 03 - 1980 09

Magazine Overview

Title: Cambridge UFO Research Group Newsletter
Issue: Volume II, Issue 3
Date: September, 1980

This issue of the Cambridge UFO Research Group Newsletter covers various topics relevant to the UFO community, including recent sightings, organizational news, and discussions on astronomical phenomena that might be mistaken for UFOs.

Meetings and General News

The newsletter begins by stating that no meetings were held due to the summer holiday season. It then highlights several items of interest from other publications and organizations.

"Canada's Eyewatch on Flying Saucers" and NICAP

Tim Tokaryk's report in "Canada's Eyewatch on Flying Saucers" (Vol. 2, No. 5) is mentioned, referencing an article from the March 1980 Mufon UFO Journal titled "NICAP, The Bitter Truth." This article reportedly details the internal struggles of NICAP, one of North America's most organized UFO research groups, suggesting it is "crumbling at the top." The article alleges that "contracting services" have taken over 80% of the income, with little spent on research and investigation.

Mufon UFO Journal and UFO Review

An April 1980 Mufon UFO Journal director's message by Walt Andrus is also noted. Andrus reportedly stated that "Mr. UFO," Tim Beckley, editor of UFO Review, was selling recorded speeches without the speakers' approval, a matter that was to be dealt with legally.

New Letterhead

The newsletter announces a new letterhead designed by Sid MacKinnon, thanking him for his work. The old letterhead will be retired after this issue.

Ohio Investigators League Conference

Charles Wilhelm of the Ohio Investigators League sent a letter about a conference held at Kent State University in Ohio on August 23 and 24. Pat Delafranier of Stratford was planning to attend, and a write-up was promised for the next newsletter if Pat attended. Some agenda items for the conference included:

1. Standardization of investigative procedures, terminology, and reporting forms.
2. Appointment of a committee to investigate potential lucrative hoaxes.
3. Establishment of a nationwide investigative network.
4. Appointment of a coordinator for activities with non-coalition UFO organizations and individual researchers.
5. Appointing a committee for communications to keep the coalition informed and working together.

A total of 13 items were on the agenda.

Closure of Res Bureaux Bulletin

Another Canadian publication, Res Bureaux Bulletin, has ceased publication. A letter from "Mr. X," former editor and publisher, explains that the Res Bureaux would cease to exist as a business at the end of July 1980. The independent publication of the serial Res Bureaux Bulletin was suspended, with remaining numbers of "Chaos" to be privately published. The Res Bureaux had hoped to become self-supporting since its establishment in 1976 but failed to attract sufficient subscription income. Despite professional typesetting and printing, and an advertising campaign in Fate magazine, it was deemed unlikely to become self-supporting. Furthermore, government officials denied it second-class postal registration and tax exemptions. As there were no advantages in continuing as a legal business, the Res Bureaux decided to "go underground." Content that would have been in the Res Bureaux Bulletin would be submitted directly to INFO Journal, and Canada's Journal UFO would likely include articles about the Res Bureaux's studies of UFO phenomena in Canada. Subscribers would receive refunds, and back issues could be obtained by contacting "Mr. X."

UFO Sightings

Kitchener Sighting: July 23, 1980

Sid and Joanne reported a sighting on July 23, 1980, at 7:53 PM in Kitchener, Ontario. While on a bus, Sid noticed an object at "10 o'clock high" which he brought to his wife's attention. They observed the object for 3-4 minutes as the bus moved slowly. The object was estimated to be at an altitude of about 3000 feet and was stationary in the southern sky. Large trees obscured their view for 2-3 minutes, and when they reached a clearing, the object was gone. The sky was clear, temperature 22°C, and the moon was visible. The object was described as being between an Emergency Measures Building (now used by the OPP) and the Grand River. The object itself was described as 12" long and 3" high, the size of a ruler held at arm's length. It was white with a brown line running down the middle and appeared silver where the sun hit it. There was a slight protrusion at each end. The sun set at 8:57 PM. The wind was from the northwest at 4-5 mph. A hot air balloon was also seen, but it was typically shaped and heading north, not south against the wind. The object did not fit any known astronomical description, and the Waterloo-Wellington Airport had no record of unusual aircraft. The conclusion was that this was a "daylight disc" because it was viewed before sunset and was quite visible.

Kitchener Sighting: August 17, 1980

A witness reported a sighting on August 17, 1980, at 3:30 AM in Kitchener, Ontario. While driving home, the witness saw an extremely bright light, similar in brightness to a light bulb and the size of a full moon, over the Bridal Penthouse area. The light was at approximately 30,000 ft. and at an elevation of 55 degrees in the northeast sky. Stars and clouds were visible. The light was stationary. The witness watched it for 20 minutes without it moving. A friend driving behind also saw the light. The witness stated he had seen falling stars and meteorites but nothing like this. He contacted the Waterloo-Wellington Airport, who referred him to the newsletter's editor. Upon checking, it was found that Venus, a spectacular morning "star," was at its maximum brightness (magnitude -4) and visible for over three hours before sunrise in the northeast sky. The only discrepancy was the elevation (witness estimated 55°, Venus approximately 35°), but the newsletter suggests witnesses tend to overestimate elevation by 20°. The stationary nature and other factors tied into the explanation of Venus. Therefore, the sighting was identified as Venus.

Discussion on "Venus" Sightings

"Some Further Considerations Re: the 'Venus' sightings of June 8/80" by John Dowdell

John Dowdell, a member of CUFORG, addresses two reports from the June/80 newsletter concerning a bright object seen by separate witnesses in Cambridge and Waterloo. Both witnesses agreed on the object's elevation (approx. 30°) and duration (approx. 8:30 PM - 9:30 PM). One witness, Dag Balzer, sketched the object, while another, Bruce Park, photographed it. The Waterloo-Wellington airport reported no weather balloon launch that day. However, Dowdell notes that balloons for various purposes can be launched by numerous agencies. The general consensus was that the object was the planet Venus, nearing "inferior conjunction" and thus at its brightest.

Dowdell, along with his wife, also observed what they believe was the same object from mid-Kitchener during a similar time slot (7:30-9:15 PM) and elevation (30°). Initially, Dowdell thought it was Venus but soon discounted this notion for several reasons:

1. Brightness before sunset: The object was brilliant well before sunset. While Venus can be viewed in daylight, it requires practice and knowledge of its position and is a faint point of light. Dowdell estimates the object was several times brighter than Venus ever becomes (mag. -5.5 to -6, compared to Venus's -2.6 to -4.3).
2. Movement: Dowdell and his wife agreed that the observed movement was erratic, away from the ecliptic, and considerably faster than a planet moving due to Earth's rotation.

Dowdell notes that the real Venus was low in the WNW after sunset and would approach the horizon. In their case, the object slowly dimmed and disappeared while still above 18° elevation, without approaching the horizon. The object appeared "star-like, bluish," and "out of focus," with an "inverted tear-drop" shape when discernible. Dowdell argues that if it were Venus, it would have appeared "crescent-shaped" and only telescopically visible under such conditions.

He considers the possibility of it being a weather balloon or probe, which might disappear as the sun sets if at a high altitude. However, they detected definite movement against prevailing winds, and the discrepancy in wind direction aloft would not have exceeded 120°, as observed. Dowdell concludes he has no idea what they viewed but suggests a balloon is the closest fit, with exceptions. He expresses interest in hearing from other witnesses of the June 8 sightings.

Other Items

Polysar Publication "ECHO"

The newsletter mentions that Polysar, the company the author works for, releases a publication called ECHO every three months, distributed worldwide. The August 1980 issue featured an interview with the author.

Cartoons and Jokes

The issue includes a "Ziggy" cartoon about dumping nuclear waste and a "Good Buddy" joke about flying saucer occupants contacting humans via C.B. radio in the year 2338.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter reflects the ongoing efforts of the Cambridge UFO Research Group to document and analyze UFO sightings. It demonstrates a commitment to investigating phenomena, even those that can be explained by natural causes like Venus. The publication also serves as a platform for discussing the state of UFO research organizations, including criticisms of established groups like NICAP and the challenges faced by smaller publications like Res Bureaux Bulletin. The editorial stance appears to be one of diligent investigation, open discussion, and a critical approach to identifying phenomena, while acknowledging the possibility of misidentification with astronomical objects. There is also an underlying theme of the challenges and changes within the UFO research community, as evidenced by the closure of publications and the discussion of organizational structures.

This issue of The Arthur Advance - Times, dated Wednesday, April 23, 1980, is a local newspaper with a strong focus on UFO phenomena. The cover story, "UFO watch," highlights the work of the Cambridge UFO Research Group, led by Bonnie Wheeler. The newspaper also includes a report on the 11th Annual MUFON UFO Symposium held in Houston, Texas, and a personal account of attending the convention by Pat De la franier.

UFO Watch: Cambridge UFO Research Group

The lead article details the activities of the Cambridge UFO Research Group, which investigates UFO sightings. Bonnie Wheeler, the group's president, is featured prominently. The article recounts a specific incident from August 4, 1978, near Brantford, Ontario, where a woman reported seeing a "round, domed craft" and a beam of light, which left a "large burn ring" in a farmer's oat field. This is classified as a Close Encounter of the Second Kind. The group has 30 members, including professionals from various fields, and they meticulously document sightings using a three-page questionnaire. They also send photographs to Ground Saucer Watch in Phoenix, Arizona, for analysis, though many are found to be hoaxes.

The article explains the six classifications of UFO sightings used by the group, ranging from Nocturnal Light to Close Encounter of the Third Kind (actual sighting of an extraterrestrial being). Bonnie Wheeler emphasizes that while most sightings have ordinary explanations, about 10 percent remain unexplained and may involve spacecraft. The group collaborates with other UFO organizations and maintains a scientific approach.

11th Annual MUFON UFO Symposium

This section covers the MUFON Symposium held in Clear Lake, Texas, from June 6th to 8th, 1980. The event attracted an estimated 300 attendees, including scientists, researchers, and UFO enthusiasts. Leonard H. Stringfield, an Ohio UFO researcher, announced he had obtained eight photographs purportedly showing alien beings in liquid nitrogen, though he had not verified their authenticity. He stated that his sources claim the government has recovered wreckage and bodies from numerous UFO crashes since the late 1940s, with much of it allegedly secured at Langley Air Force Base in Virginia.

William L. Moore, an author, suggested that many sightings might originate from a single crash in Roswell, New Mexico, in 1947. Walter H. Andrus, director of MUFON, noted that despite government promises, information on UFOs remains largely unreleased. He stated that while the existence of UFOs is not in doubt, their origin remains a mystery, with extraterrestrial visitors being the most exciting possibility.

Jim Oberg, a computer specialist and critic of UFO studies, expressed skepticism, suggesting that UFO stories could be cover stories for other government activities. He also pointed to the lack of alien technology in America's space program as indirect evidence that the government might not possess such technology.

Pat De la franier's MUFON Convention Report

Pat De la franier provides a detailed personal account of attending the MUFON Symposium. The report covers the social events, including a reception and discussions with various UFO researchers like Walt Andrus, Dr. Leo Sprinkle, Bill Moore, and Stanton Friedman. De la franier describes the lectures, including Henry Monteith's talk on the Unified Field Theory and UFOs, and James E. Oberg's 'con' perspective on UFOs. Ray Stanford demonstrated Project Starlight's advanced monitoring equipment.

De la franier also attended talks by Dr. Leo Sprinkle on UFO contactees and Fred Merritt. The report mentions a film about a UFO sighting aboard a Braniff Flight #9. The convention included workshops and a documentary titled "A Strange Harvest." De la franier also recounts a visit to NASA's Johnson Space Center, including Mission Control.

UFO True Believers Meeting

This article, by Carlos Byars of the Houston Chronicle, summarizes the MUFON conference, emphasizing the presence of "True Believers" and investigators. It reiterates points made by Leonard Stringfield about UFO crash debris and alien bodies, and Henry Monteith's theory about higher dimensions and telepathic communication. Stanton Friedman is quoted as saying that most UFOs turn out to be identifiable objects like Jupiter or blimps, but a significant portion remains unexplained. Friedman criticizes the Project Bluebook report for allegedly being smothered by misleading press releases, citing the 1947 New Mexico incident as an example of a cover-up.

Jim Oberg's critical stance is also mentioned, along with his view that the lack of alien technology in space programs suggests a lack of government UFO data. The conference was sponsored by MUFON and attracted about 300 attendees.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of UFO sightings, the scientific and skeptical approaches to the phenomena, and the ongoing debate about the existence and origin of UFOs. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting both the enthusiastic pursuit of UFO evidence by groups like the Cambridge UFO Research Group and MUFON, and the critical perspectives of individuals like Jim Oberg. The articles highlight the dedication of researchers and the persistent mystery surrounding unexplained aerial phenomena, suggesting that while many sightings are explainable, a core group remains intriguing and warrants further study. The publication seems to lean towards acknowledging the possibility of extraterrestrial visitors, as evidenced by Bonnie Wheeler's concluding quote.

This document is an issue from the Cambridge U.F.O. Research Group, dated January/February 1980, with a cover date of July 16, 1980. It functions as a newsletter or bulletin, disseminating information and analysis related to UFO phenomena, space travel, and related scientific concepts.

Article 1: The 'Majorcan Couple' Hoax

The newsletter begins by referencing an article inserted into the January/February 1980 issue, which was sent by Fernando Guardia from Madrid, Spain. This article, titled "Incredible Adventure of a Majorcan Couple," pertained to "dimensional doors." However, Richard Heiden, a subscriber from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, responded, labeling the article a hoax. The author of the newsletter agrees and presents excerpts from Heiden's letter to provide correct details of the case.

Further details emerge from a translation of a letter from Fedro Redón, editor of the Spanish UFO magazine STENDEK. Redón explains that news of a couple being teleported had circulated in Spain during the spring, with diverse reports placing the event between various cities like Palma de Majorca to Seville, Madrid to Seville, and Barcelona to Seville. The Parapsychology Society of Madrid also failed to verify the case. Redón concludes that these are likely different versions of an invented case and not important.

An additional article sent by Sr. Cerdá to Lou Farish, published in 'LA NUEVA ESPAÑA' on May 8, 1979, reportedly contained three different versions of a supposed teleportation. Another report from a Buenos Aires magazine in its June 29, 1979, edition described two brothers teleported from Valencia to Puerto Rico. The author of the newsletter concludes that these supposed teleportations, while sometimes published in UFO literature, are often not genuine, and this specific Spanish case can definitely be considered a hoax.

Article 2: Time Dilation and Space Travel

The newsletter then shifts focus to a more theoretical and speculative discussion titled "BE IN TWO PLACES AT THE SAME TIME? or some may view that trip to Sirius too seriously." The author suggests that while space travel and time dilation might seem like headline news, the underlying logic is more significant. The article explores the concept of time dilation, referencing the physical law and the Lorenz Transformation Formula.

The author posits that many people take space travel and related concepts too seriously, citing numerous PhD books on extraterrestrial intelligence, the immensity of the universe, distant galaxies, and Relativity as examples of overly serious discourse. The piece aims to inject some humor and perspective into these topics.

Using the Lorenz Transformation Formula, the author calculates that a NASA mission to Sirius, which is 8 light years away, would involve a 18-year elapsed time for the crew in Sirius time, and also 18 years on Earth. However, the author then presents more extreme scenarios: a 16-year round trip to Sirius would mean over 80 years pass on Earth, making the crew appear significantly younger than their friends left behind. A round trip to Arcturus, lasting 81 light years, would result in over 420,000 years passing on Earth.

The author also references Robert K. G. Temple's "The Sirius Mystery" and discusses a humorous aspect of time dilation, suggesting that the past and future can co-exist. The piece touches upon Albert Einstein and his theories, likening time dilation to a musical rhythm.

Article 3: Interstellar Communication and UFO Occupants

The newsletter includes a brief mention of an article from "The Marcen Journal (Mutual Anomaly Research Centre and Evaluation Network, Inc.), Volume II, Number III," concerning "UFO Occupants." This article is reproduced in full. The Marcen Journal is identified as the Official Journal of the Mutual Anomaly Research Center and Evaluation Network, formerly The Maryland Center for Investigation of Unconventional Phenomena, Inc.

A cartoon depicts a reporter interviewing an alien, with the alien stating, "Space does not permit me to answer." Another quote from a wall of the London Planetarium reads: "Is there intelligent life on Earth?" with the addition: "Yes. But I'm only visiting."

Other Content

The issue also includes a cartoon strip titled "CARRIER-TOONS by Chick Larsen," featuring characters discussing delivering information and establishing contact. It also includes a reference to a 1974 interstellar message transmission from Arecibo, Puerto Rico, towards Messier 13, noting the vast travel time for the message.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO reports, particularly identifying hoaxes, and the exploration of scientific concepts like time dilation and space travel, often with a touch of humor. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, a desire for factual accuracy, and an interest in the theoretical implications of physics and space exploration. The publication aims to inform its subscribers by presenting analyzed information and encouraging critical thinking about UFO phenomena.

This issue of Search magazine, dated Winter 1979-80, features a cover story on the FBI's involvement in UFO investigations and detailed descriptions of various alien types. The magazine also includes articles on French government UFO research, book reviews, and miscellaneous reports.

Cover Story: FBI was Watching UFOs

The lead article, "FBI was watching UFOs," by Bonnie Lamp Fowler, reveals that the FBI has maintained extensive records of UFO sightings, some marked 'top secret' and now declassified under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Dennis Pilichis, a ufologist and head of the UFO Information Network, shared approximately 1,500 pages of these FBI documents. Pilichis notes that while the FBI did not officially vouch for the authenticity of UFO reports, the files demonstrate that the agency took the subject very seriously, a significant revelation given that in 1965, interest in UFOs was considered a 'crackpot thing.' The FBI files contain correspondence, descriptions of sightings, and even letters accusing UFO buffs of being communists, though the agency did not actively 'mess with UFO people.' The data includes new information on sightings not previously found in Air Force files.

Pilichis, a 28-year-old ufologist, aims to act as a curator of UFO material, not censoring his findings. His personal opinion is that UFOs are 'real, but I don't know what they are.' He discusses evolving theories beyond the 1950s notion of metallic beings from Mars, suggesting possibilities like extraterrestrial craft, interdimensional beings, or even 'functional mythology' and collective consciousness. He also touches upon the possibility of 'time travellers' and the concept of amoebas on a slide to explain interdimensional travel. The article also mentions experimental results where people in trance relived UFO experiences, suggesting a collective consciousness where 'myth is created.' Pilichis concludes that any combination of these theories, along with hoaxes or misidentifications, makes accurate identification difficult.

Alien Types Described

The cover story also provides detailed descriptions of the three main types of UFO occupants most frequently encountered, based on composite sketches by artist Al Kenyon. These are:

• Type III: Represented by a furry creature picking up a rock. These entities are described as hairy bipeds, ranging from two feet tall to more than seven feet tall (Bigfoot-like monsters). They are typically covered in hair except for their face, palms, and soles, and are not clothed. They often have large, pumpkin-shaped heads with short necks, broad shoulders, and long arms. They exhibit bipedal locomotion but have been seen on all fours, leaving human-like footprints. Type IIIs are reported to be belligerent and violent when interfered with and are often seen grabbing biological and geological samples.
• Type I: Represented by short figures in helmetless space suits. These are the most frequently reported, often linked to the 'little green men' myths. They are typically three to four and a half feet tall with disproportionately large heads and high foreheads, suggesting advanced cerebral development. They have large, wide-set eyes, sometimes described as wrap-around, with a wide peripheral vision and sensitivity to light. Eye colors can be deep black, blue, or yellow-green. Ears are barely noticeable to large and prominent, noses range from human-like to slits, and mouths vary from slits to puckered openings. They have broad shoulders, long arms, and human-like legs and feet. They are reported to wear seamless 'diving suits' of pastel metallic fabrics and sometimes carry transparent helmets. They are often encountered at night, repairing vehicles or collecting specimens, and exhibit shyness, retreating unless threatened, at which point they may use a stun ray weapon.
• Type II: Represented by a tall, almost human-looking figure. These entities appear nearly completely human once they reach about six feet in height. They are described as having oriental-looking faces with a suntanned appearance and often wear pastel-colored coveralls or leisure fatigues. Type IIs are frequently sighted in daylight and exhibit similar behavior to Type Is. Most reported UFO abduction cases are said to be carried out exclusively by Type IIs or by Type Is with a Type II in charge. The article suggests that 'Men in Black' reports might be attributed to Type II aliens.
• Type IV: Described as bizarre creatures generating nightmares. They are rarely humanoid, ranging from giant amoebas to glowing and invisible entities. Famous examples include the 'Flatwoods Monster' (seven-foot tall with a glowing red head) and the 'mothman' from West Virginia, and a 'Bighead' creature from Ohio.

The magazine notes that while all three types (I, II, III) are shown together on the cover for artistic simplicity, MARCEN is not aware of any cases where all three types have been reported together. Reports are frequent of Type III occupants seen in proximity to Types I or II, and occasionally several Type Is may be reported with one Type II leading.

French Government Investigates UFOs

An article titled "FRENCH GOVERNMENT INVESTIGATES UFOS" details France's unique approach to UFO research. It highlights that France is the only major country with a systemic, government-funded organization for the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena: GEPAN (Groupe d'Etudes de Phenomenes Aerospateaux Aeriales Nouedentifees). Established in May 1977 as part of the CNES (Centre Nationale Etude Spatiales), GEPAN consists of CNES scientists and external consultants. Its activities include data collection, analysis, and research projects focusing on soil samples, electro-magnetic effects, and psychological/sociological studies of UFO phenomena. GEPAN aims to disseminate responsible information and restricts its investigations to French sightings, with cooperation from military and governmental agencies. Unlike the U.S., there is no 'official blockage,' and the Gendarmerie and police are instructed to take UFO investigations seriously. GEPAN receives about twenty reports per month and collaborates with major UFO organizations worldwide. The article expresses hope that other nations, including the U.S. and Canada, will establish similar organizations.

Book Reviews

The issue includes several book reviews:

• "SITUATION RED: THE UFO SIEGE" by Leonard H. Stringfield: Reviewed by Edward J. Toner, Jr. The book assesses the growing boldness of UFO operators in harassing and injuring humans, suggesting a potential for invasion. It recounts cases of alleged alien encounters, abductions, and disappearances. The reviewer expresses skepticism about the documentation and claims, questioning the plausibility of certain events like lifting a crashed saucer onto a truck.
• "SECRETS OF OUR SPACESHIP MOON" by Don Wilson: Reviewed by George W. Earley. This book correlates NASA's Apollo missions with theories that the Moon is hollow and was placed in orbit by aliens as a base for UFO exploration. Evidence cited includes the Moon's specific gravity, the age of moon rocks, and its unique orbit. The reviewer recommends it for SITU members and notes Dr. Ivan Sanderson's significance in the book.
• "THE MYSTERIOUS WORLD: AN ATLAS OF THE UNEXPLAINED" by Francis Hitching: Reviewed by George Eberhart. This scholarly and well-illustrated compendium covers ancient history, geological anomalies, SHC, UFOs, and other mysteries. The reviewer praises its lucid grasp of implications and entertaining presentation, noting its extensive maps and charts of various phenomena and historical sites. The bibliography is interdisciplinary.
• "THE PSYCHIC HEALING BOOK" by Wallace, Amy & Bill Henkin: Reviewed by George Eberhart. Described as a practical guide to psychic development, the book offers exercises to enhance clair-senses and control psychic energy. It emphasizes healing as a process of aligning with cosmic energy and introduces concepts like karma and chakras. The reviewer notes its rational style and its potential to introduce readers to a broad range of phenomena.

Other Reports and Features

• Cambridge U.F.O. Research Group: This section includes correspondence and attached articles. One note mentions exchanging publications with Dennis Pilichis of Rome, Ohio, and attaching a local newspaper article. Another note mentions an article from the Winter 1979-80 issue of Search magazine about the French government's involvement with UFOs. A third note refers to a book review from the Winter 1980 issue of PURSUIT.
• Cartoons: Two cartoons are included. One by Kerman depicts a figure in a desk chair looking at a UFO and being asked to categorize his happiness level. Another Kerman cartoon shows a creature on a rocky outcrop asking, "Hey! Do you wanna see a U.F.O.?"
• Food for Thought: This section presents brief, often unusual, news items:
• A statue's green streaks were identified as tears, leading to speculation about its origin and a warning against war.
• An elephant at the Zoo of Arkansas ate and destroyed a motorcycle helmet.
• A thunderstorm rained frogs on a village in Central Asia.
• Chinese soldiers reportedly killed and ate an abominable snowman in the Himalayas in 1962.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the serious investigation of UFO phenomena, both by government agencies (like the FBI and France's GEPAN) and independent researchers. There is a strong emphasis on cataloging and describing various types of alien entities encountered. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting diverse theories and evidence without necessarily endorsing any single explanation. The inclusion of book reviews and miscellaneous reports suggests a broad interest in Forteana and unexplained phenomena beyond just UFOs. The magazine seems to advocate for a more scientific and less dismissive approach to UFO studies, as evidenced by the discussion of the FBI's files and France's official research program.

Title: PURSUIT
Issue: Winter 1980
Publisher: SS&S Publications
Country: Canada
Language: English
ISSN: 0033-4539
Price: $2.95

This issue of PURSUIT magazine delves into various aspects of the paranormal, UFO phenomena, and esoteric practices. It features book reviews, a section on Charles Fort's notes, and advertisements for UFO-related materials.

Book Reviews and Features

Inner Development Guides The issue begins with a review of several books related to inner development and psychic abilities. George Eberhart reviews "How to Make ESP Work for You" by Harold Sherman, which focuses on telepathy and precognition, and "Occult Exercises and Practices" by Gareth Knight, found to be too brief. "Hypersentience" by Marcia Moore is described as a method of past-life reading through meditation, with case histories. David St. Clair's "Lessons in Instant ESP" is deemed potentially useful for beginners but criticized for its condescending tone. Finally, "Tantra: The Key to Sexual Power and Pleasure" by Ashley Thirleby is presented as a practical guide to sex magick.

"Somebody Else Is On The Moon" by George H. Leonard

George W. Earley reviews George H. Leonard's book, which controversially claims that alien beings are engaged in mining operations on the moon, using NASA photographs to support his assertions. Earley expresses skepticism, noting that Leonard relies heavily on a single anonymous tipster and that even Apollo astronaut Jim Irwin rejected such claims. Earley advises readers to borrow the book rather than purchase it.

"The UFO Handbook" by Allan Hendry

David K. Hackett reviews Allan Hendry's "The UFO Handbook," positioning it as a textbook designed to help individuals distinguish between genuine UFO sightings and misperceived natural or man-made events. Hackett praises the book's excellent photographs and concise explanations, noting that it aims to provide rational illumination to the UFO mystery. He highlights Hendry's frank assessment of witness and investigator competence and his leanings towards a Jungian hypothesis. The review suggests that Hendry's work is destined to become a premier text on UFO phenomena.

The Notes of Charles Fort

This section features "The Notes of Charles Fort," deciphered by Carl J. Pabst. It includes a list of abbreviations used in the notes and a specific entry from May 1808 detailing an incident involving a steward finding a dead lamb with a perforation, and subsequent events involving other lambs and a cat. The entry is accompanied by a photograph of Charles Fort.

Advertisements and Special Offers

SS&S Publications promotes its "1980s UFO RESEARCH DIRECTORY," a compilation of 600 UFO sources worldwide, including organizations and publications. The directory is priced at $2.95. They also offer "Flying Saucer Treasure Trove" and "The Night Mutilators" by Gene Duplantier, which explores the connection between cattle mutilations and UFOs. Special offers include free books like "The Amazing West Hill-Pickering Sightings" and "Time for Truth" with the purchase of multiple items. Advertisements also feature "My Space Odyssey in UFOs" by Oscar Magocsi and "Strange Encounters" by Timothy Green Beckley, with options for different formats and prices.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of UFOs, paranormal phenomena, ESP, and occult practices. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, as evidenced by the skeptical reviews of books making extraordinary claims, while also acknowledging the value of serious research into these subjects. The inclusion of Charles Fort's notes suggests an interest in historical investigations of unexplained phenomena. The magazine aims to provide readers with resources and information to better understand and analyze UFO sightings and related topics.