CUFORG - Vol 2 No 10 - 1982 06

Magazine Overview

This document is the June 1982 issue of the Cambridge UFO Research Group Newsletter, Volume II, Issue 10. It details the group's activities, investigations, and upcoming events, with a focus on UFO sightings and alien encounters. The cover features a prominent illustration of a UFO and the group's logo, while the main headline from an accompanying newspaper article is 'We're primitive compared to aliens:Wheeler'.

Meeting and Witness Accounts

The newsletter reports on the March/April meeting, which featured a witness to a Close Encounter of the First Kind case on Pinebush Road, Cambridge, on November 18, 1980. The witness described grey, blotchy marks on her hands and arms and three identical dreams involving paralysis and a sense of unseen beings. She also had 15 minutes of lost time. The witness agreed to be hypnotized by Dr. Leo Sprinkle at the MUFON Convention in Toronto, though later correspondence indicated Dr. Sprinkle would not attend, prompting a search for another hypnotist.

Corrections and Media Appearances

A correction is made regarding Nick Bensond's attendance at a UFO Convention in June 1977, which should have been June 27, 1981. The newsletter also mentions an appearance on Grand River Cable TV, channel 4, on April 30th, which included a 35-minute interview and a live phone-in segment. Some calls were described as ridiculous, such as one from a foreign lady concerned about needle marks on her and her daughter's necks after waking up on New Year's Day.

Upcoming Events and Investigations

Plans for the upcoming MUFON Convention in Toronto were discussed, with Sid contributing life-size posters of aliens for display. Nick has arranged for Dr. Frank Stranges, editor of Journal UFO, to speak in Kitchener on August 18-20th. Flyers for this seminar will be distributed at the MUFON Convention. Pat Delafranier, President of Stratford UFO Research Team, has agreed to assist. Sid, Nick, and Dave investigated animal deaths and disappearances in the Rockton Lion Safari area, but found no unusual activity. However, investigations in the Clyde area uncovered multiple UFO sightings and reports of strange lights.

Video and Media Review

Nick brought a video tape to a meeting showcasing Morton Shulman and Stanton Friedman discussing UFOs, along with other guests including a psychic and debunkers. The show had previously aired on TV in March 1982.

Newspaper Articles and Expert Opinions

Two newspaper articles are included. The first, from the St. Petersburg Times, features an interview with Timothy Beckley, publisher of UFO Review, who discusses his 20 years of investigating UFOs and his belief that aliens are visiting Earth and some are living among us. Beckley categorizes aliens into three types: those resembling neighbors, the 'little alien man' type, and 'strange saucerians' like Bigfoot and Mothman. He also touches on government coverups and the idea that Earth is an experimental lab for extraterrestrials. The second article, from the Cambridge Times, titled 'We're primitive compared to aliens:Wheeler', focuses on Bonnie Wheeler, president of the Cambridge UFO Research Group. Wheeler discusses the group's membership, investigation methods, and classification of sightings, including close encounters of the first, second, and third kinds. She expresses her belief in extraterrestrial intelligence and the vastness of the universe, suggesting that humanity's hostile attitude might deter aliens. The article also notes that many sightings go unreported due to public reluctance to discuss the topic.

UFO Classification and Investigation Methods

Bonnie Wheeler explains the classification system for UFO sightings, which dictates the thoroughness of an investigation. Nocturnal light experiences can be investigated over the phone, while close encounters require more in-depth fieldwork. The group uses standard question sheets, cross-references with airport data, and enlists an astronomer to identify celestial bodies. Soil samples can be tested, and photographs analyzed for authenticity. Wheeler emphasizes approaching investigations with an open mind and requiring witnesses to prove their accounts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently promotes the investigation of UFO phenomena and the sharing of information to uncover the truth. There is a strong emphasis on witness accounts, scientific inquiry (within the context of UFO research), and the potential for extraterrestrial visitation. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness and a belief in the reality of UFOs, encouraging public reporting and discussion of sightings. The group aims to gain a greater understanding of UFO phenomena and its implications.

This document is the 1981 annual issue of GRAY BARKER'S UFO ANNUAL, published by Gray Barker and illustrated by Carol Ann Rodriguez, with additional art by Gene Duplantier and Charles Roller Jr. The cover features a stylized UFO and the table of contents, indicating a price of $8.95. The publication is from Global Communications, located in New York.

Contents and Key Articles

The annual is divided into eight parts, covering a wide range of UFO-related topics:

Part One: They Saw the Flying Discs This section, starting on page 5, likely discusses general UFO sightings, including animals being frightened by UFOs, witnesses entering strange trance states, and UFOs in China, with a mention of a father and son experiencing a time warp.

Part Two: When the UFOs Landed Beginning on page 16, this part covers incidents where UFOs reportedly landed or interacted closely with people. It mentions a UFO buzzing a British coastguard and strange visitors warning UFO investigators, with a hint that the government might shut them down.

Part Three: Are UFOs Hostile? Starting on page 25, this section explores potentially hostile UFO encounters. It includes a report of a Kentucky witness's hands turning green, a Texas mystery involving a UFO that burned spectators, and alleged UFO murders.

Part Four: Occupants and Critters On page 35, this part focuses on encounters with UFO occupants or strange creatures. It details a 'Little-Foot' UFO creature mangled by a dog, a 'Silver Man' in North Carolina, and occupants in Pennsylvania.

Part Five: Inside the Space Ships Beginning on page 40, this section delves into experiences related to being inside UFOs. It mentions an investigator finding 'Missing Time' evidence of UFO abductions and aliens collecting human sperm and ova.

Part Six: Selected for Abduction Starting on page 47, this part highlights abduction cases. It features interviews with Pascagoula abduction witnesses and Betty Hill recounting her terrifying ordeal, posing the question of who might be selected next.

Part Seven: UFO Contact Center On page 55, this section discusses UFO contact centers and the psychological aspects of abduction experiences. It covers hypnotic counseling for abduction trauma and speculates whether aliens are abducting humans for an educational process.

Part Eight: Freedom of Information Beginning on page 62, this part focuses on government transparency regarding UFOs. It details a fearless attorney challenging the government to reveal UFO secrets and uncovering a document about a UFO 'battle' in Iran.

Postscript: The Men in Black Concluding the main content on page 67, this section discusses the mysterious 'Men in Black' figures who reportedly hush up UFO witnesses, questioning their activities in 1981.

News Release: Raiders of the Ark and the Ark of the Covenant

A news release from Global Communications discusses a controversial new book by David Medina of London, titled 'GOD'S SECRET WEAPON: THE ARK OF THE COVENANT.' The book, priced at $8.95, posits that the Ark of the Covenant described in the Bible was a real historical artifact that functioned as a nuclear reactor and a device for direct communication with God. Medina suggests its power was devastating and could be a military weapon. He theorizes that the priests wore protective clothing with jewels to shield themselves, and the Ark might have produced laser beams, possibly used to bring down the walls of Jericho. The book also suggests the Ark was a vessel for receiving manna and acted as a radio transmitter/receiver for Moses. Medina believes the Ark was based on technology from higher intelligence beings, thousands of years ahead of humankind at the time.

UFO Insight Article by David A. Haisell

This article, originally from the June 1982 issue of 'Inner Life,' discusses the history and investigation of UFOs. It notes the evolution of terminology from 'flying saucer' to 'UFO' and 'unidentified phenomenon.' The article traces the modern UFO era back to Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting and the subsequent government response, including the establishment of Project Sign in 1948, which concluded UFOs were interplanetary. However, under pressure, the project was re-named Project Grudge and adopted a skeptical stance. Later, it became Project Blue Book in 1952. The article also mentions Canada's 'Project Magnet,' led by Wilbert B. Smith, which concluded there was a 91% probability that some UFO sightings were of real, unknown origin, with a 60% probability of them being alien vehicles. The article criticizes the conclusions of Project Blue Book Special Report #14 (BB#14), suggesting it overlooked its own findings by attributing unknowns to insufficient information rather than the phenomena themselves. It also references the CIA's covert interest in UFOs, revealed through Freedom of Information Act requests, and their directive to avoid public alarm.

Summaries of Sightings Reports

The article includes summaries of sightings from Haisell's defunct JOURNAL U.F.O.:

• Levitation and Healing: Mrs. A.V. reported her car being lifted off the road by a 'small neon light' in 1965 near Brussels. She later had a vision of a similar light embracing her daughter's stomach, which she interpreted as a supernatural sign indicating her daughter's illness, leading to a quick recovery. This experience led Mrs. A.V. to pursue parapsychology.
• Ball of Light Explores Bedroom: In Lorono, Spain, Javier Bosque reported a ball of light entering his bedroom, emitting beams at his radio and tape recorder before vanishing.

Oneupsmanship Over the UFO/ETI Disbelievers by Russ Reardon

This article by Russ Reardon discusses the 'Manna Machine,' an invention attributed to extraterrestrial intelligences (ETIs) that supposedly fed the Israelites for 40 years in the desert. Reardon references books by Rodney Dale and George Sasoon, who claim to have built a working model of this device. The article suggests that if such a machine could be scaled up, it could solve world starvation. Sasoon explains that the machine functions by cultivating water plants, powered by intense light from a small nuclear reactor, and requires basic elements found in the atmosphere. The machine is described as tamper-proof and theft-proof, with injuries resulting from tampering due to its radioactive materials. Reardon advocates for using this technology to address global hunger and challenge the skepticism of disbelievers.

Manna Machine Details

George Sasoon, speaking at the 6th World Conference of the Ancient Astronaut Society in Munich, described the Manna Machine. It is a compact device (two cubic meters) capable of feeding 600 families (1800 people) for 40 years. It requires energy from an intense light, likely from a small nuclear reactor, and basic elements like carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen, supplemented by artificial fertilizer. The recognition of this technology as a product of engineering only became possible around 1960 with advancements in small, nuclear-pumped lasers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the historical investigation of UFOs, government involvement and potential cover-ups, alien abductions, and the controversial intersection of ancient biblical narratives with advanced technology (extraterrestrial or otherwise). The magazine appears to lean towards a pro-UFO and pro-ETI stance, presenting theories that challenge conventional scientific and historical understanding, particularly concerning the Ark of the Covenant and the Manna Machine. The editorial stance seems to be one of advocating for the serious consideration of UFO phenomena and alternative explanations for historical events and artifacts, often positioning believers against a skeptical establishment.

This document is the April 1982 issue of the MUFON UFO Journal, focusing on the upcoming 1982 International MUFON UFO Symposium in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The issue also includes detailed reports of UFO sightings and discussions of relevant books.

1982 INTERNATIONAL MUFON UFO SYMPOSIUM IN TORONTO, ONTARIO

Authored by Walt Andrus, this section details the 1982 MUFON UFO Symposium, themed "UFOs--Canada: A Global Perspective." The event is scheduled for July 2-4 at the Westbury Hotel in Toronto, hosted by the United Friends of Ontario and sponsored by the Mutual UFO Network. Henry H. McKay serves as the chairman for the host organization. A "UFO Summit Conference" will be held in conjunction with the symposium on Monday, July 5th, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the same venue.

• Featured speakers and their topics include:
• Dr. J. Allen Hynek: "Planning for the Next UFO Flap"
• Dr. George and Iris Owen: "The UFO Phenomenon and Its Relationship to Parapsychological Research"
• David Haisell: "UFO Research: An International Perspective"
• Michael A. Persinger, Ph.D.: "Predicting UFO Events and Experiences"
• Arthur Bray: "Professionalism in Ufology"
• William L. Moore: "New Roswell Crash Disclosures" (tentative title)

Stanton T. Friedman was scheduled to speak but had to decline due to business obligations.

John F. Schuessler, Deputy Director of MUFON, is scheduled to speak on the "Cash-Landrum Radiation Case," a case that has garnered significant media attention. The article notes that the medical aspects of this case, previously reported in the MUFON UFO Journal in April and November 1981, make it one of the most significant UFO cases on record. It has been featured in Texas newspapers and North American tabloids.

Specialized workshops on UFO-related subjects will be offered. Two video-taped films, "Strange Harvest" (on cattle mutilations) and "UFOs Are Real," will be shown. The Friday evening program includes registration, displays, a cocktail hour, and a get-acquainted session. Admission prices are yet to be announced, but a package discount will be available for the entire symposium.

Sixty rooms have been reserved at the Westbury Hotel at special group rates. Participants must make their own reservations directly with the hotel using special reservation cards available from United Friends of Ontario or MUFON. Arrangements have also been made with a nearby hotel for overflow.

The Annual MUFON Corporate Meeting is scheduled for Sunday, July 4th. The 1982 MUFON UFO Symposium Proceedings will be available, including a paper titled "A UFO Propulsion Model" by F.E. Alzofon, Ph.D. The proceedings can be purchased at the symposium for $10.00 or by mail from MUFON for $10.00 plus postage and handling.

Local UFO Group Meeting Note

A note indicates a regular meeting of the UFCKCO group is scheduled for April 14th at 10 North Sherbourne St., Toronto, to discuss the MUFON Symposium and Summit Conference. Volunteers are sought for assistance.

1982 UFO Summit Conference

Authored by Walt Andrus, this section reiterates the details of the UFO Summit Conference, emphasizing the overwhelming worldwide interest. It highlights that many UFO study groups and organizations have expressed interest in sending representatives. Several European UFO organizations have requested to present short papers to foster international cooperation. The conference aims to facilitate dialogue and cooperation in ufology.

The morning session (9:00 A.M. to 12 noon) is dedicated to representatives presenting short papers (maximum 15 minutes each) on their proposals. The afternoon session (1:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M.) will focus on discussing proposals, determining goals and objectives, assigning projects, and establishing a timetable for reporting progress.

Delegates and representatives are asked to advise Walt Andrus in writing by June 1, 1982, regarding their intention to present a paper or attend. An agenda will be published and mailed to attendees. Roberts Rules of Order will govern the conference to ensure orderly proceedings.

The article suggests this could be the most significant UFO Conference ever conducted in North America, contingent on participants being willing to set aside differences and devote their talents to constructive progress.

Cartoon Ideas for TROFUS

Attached is a letter from the Cambridge UFO Research Group, dated February 11, 1982, providing ideas for cartoons for the March 1982 issue of TROFUS, edited by Pat Delafranier. The ideas involve "Men in Black" (MIBs) in various humorous scenarios, often deriding a "schlock theory."

Wildwood Gravel Pit Case

This section details a UFO sighting that occurred on May 24th, 1977, near Wildwood Lake, involving a witness named Dan and investigators Pat De la franier, Darren McKone, and Liz McKone.

Sighting Report (Daytime)

Dan reported seeing an arrowhead-shaped object in a gravel pit. The object, described as greenish stainless steel with a bulbous feature, emitted heat, causing rocks to split and pop. The object had three 'skies' on its bottom: two small ones at the back and a massive hydraulic cylinder at the front. Dan initially mistook it for an airplane. After the object disappeared, he found the area where it had rested was hot and covered in brown ash.

Dan then observed the object in a second, larger gravel pit, at a 10-degree angle. As it lowered, a dish at the back unfolded into side wings. The object then rose silently and left. Dan followed to a third pit and approached the object, noting its smooth, solid surface. He heard a "clunk" and saw a ramp descend, from which a non-human occupant emerged. The occupant was described as 4.5 to 5 feet tall, with greenish-yellow skin, a snorkel-like mouth, and walked with straight-legged steps. He wore a tannish suit and shiny silver boots.

Dan's encounter was brief and shocking, and he hid as the object flew away silently, moving erratically over the fields.

Evening Sighting

Later the same day, May 24th, 1977, Dan and his wife's grandmother observed an object in the sky near Fairview. It was described as a flying saucer, half in a tree, about 30 feet in the air and 50-60 feet off the road. Dan saw a "bulbous head" figure looking out of the craft before it disappeared. The grandmother freely discussed the sighting, while Dan remained quiet about it.

Book Reviews

Gray Barker at Giant Rock

This review discusses Gray Barker's book, which recounts his experiences attending George Van Tassel's Flying Saucer Convention at Giant Rock in 1970. Barker interviews "contactees" and describes their stories, along with UFO-related phenomena found in NASA photos of the moon and Mars.

Passport to Magonia

Jacques Vallee's book is reviewed, arguing that modern UFO appearances and occupants are analogous to historical myths and legends of supernatural beings. Vallee seeks to bridge observations of UFO phenomena with traditional folklore.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly promotes MUFON's activities, particularly the upcoming international symposium, emphasizing cooperation and scientific inquiry within ufology. It highlights significant UFO cases like Cash-Landrum and presents detailed eyewitness accounts, such as the Wildwood Gravel Pit case, which includes a physical encounter with a non-human entity. The inclusion of book reviews by notable figures like Gray Barker and Jacques Vallee suggests an editorial stance that engages with both historical and theoretical aspects of the UFO phenomenon, while also encouraging active participation and research within the UFO community.

This issue of the Cambridge UFO Research Group newsletter, dated June 1981 (Issue No. 6), focuses on two primary areas: a detailed report of a UFO sighting in the Fairview area, and an in-depth rebuttal by Kal Korff and William L. Moore of Wendelle Stevens' defense of the Edward Meier contactee case.

UFO Sighting Report

The newsletter includes a map of the sighting area near Fairview, Ontario, Canada, detailing locations and times of observations. The object was first sighted around 2:00 p.m. in 'Pit 1', described as a wedge shape approximately 45 feet long and 20 feet high. It had skis and a large circular hydraulic cylinder. The rear of the object reportedly transformed into wings, changing its angle. The object was also observed in 'Pit 2' and 'Pit 3'. At 'Pit 3', the object's high back moved back and out into side wings. The object was seen flying back and forth across fields around 3:00 p.m. and was last observed at 7:30 p.m. during an evening sighting. The object was described as 'Tin Foilish Green' and 'Burnt black sooty' with a darker, less shiny color. It was noted to have circular impressions, skis, and a trapdoor. One illustration depicts an occupant seen near the craft, described as 4.5 feet tall with golden hair, black warts, a yellowish-green color, wearing a tan nylonish suit and shiny silver boots, with no visible seams or zippers and possibly no knees.

Debate on the Edward Meier Case

A significant portion of the newsletter is dedicated to a response by Kal K. Korff and William L. Moore to Wendelle C. Stevens' article titled "'Kal Korff and the 'Meier Hoax': A Response" published in the MUFON Journal (Nos. 164-165). Korff and Moore argue that Stevens' response is unconvincing and relies on ad hominem attacks rather than substantive evidence. They contend that Stevens misrepresents facts and distorts details to support the Meier case.

Korff and Moore highlight that Meier's claims, allegedly documented in over 3,000 pages of "quotes" from "Pleiadeans" via "automatic writing," are questionable. They point out that Stevens claims his book is not a work of fiction and that the photographed disc-shaped craft is a legitimate UFO, contradicting his later assertion that he does not declare all of Meier's claims genuine. The authors also challenge the timeline of Meier's first contact, noting that while Stevens' book suggests January 28, 1975, other articles by Stevens place Meier's first UFO sighting on June 2, 1942.

Korff and Moore assert that their research into the Meier case is thorough and that their book, "The Meier Incident: Most Infamous Hoax in UFOlogy" (Town Scribe Press, 1981), is an authoritative compilation of their findings. They express weariness with the ongoing debate and believe Stevens' charade has gone on long enough.

Cartoons

The issue also includes two cartoons: one titled 'HERMAN' featuring a bee and a man, and another by 'Wicks' depicting ants discussing the arrival of Americans.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter appears to maintain a critical stance towards certain UFO cases and proponents, as evidenced by the detailed refutation of the Edward Meier case. The focus on detailed object descriptions and witness accounts suggests an interest in empirical evidence and rigorous investigation within the field of ufology. The inclusion of a debate highlights the internal discussions and controversies within the UFO research community.

Title: Pleiades in Fact & Fiction
Issue: 10
Volume: 1
Date: 1983
Publisher: MUFON
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of 'Pleiades in Fact & Fiction' is a critical examination of Wendelle Stevens' book 'Pleiades' and the associated claims of Billy Meier. The publication, likely a newsletter or journal from MUFON (Mutual UFO Network), aims to debunk or at least cast significant doubt on the authenticity of Meier's alleged extraterrestrial encounters and the evidence presented by Stevens.

Critique of Stevens' Book and Claims

The article begins by directly challenging Stevens' assertion that space limitations prevented the inclusion of details about Billy Meier's earlier contactee experiences in the 'Pleiades' book. The authors argue that the book is replete with unused space, suggesting this claim is "hogwash." They point out that even by conservative measurements, there are approximately 950 square inches of blank space in the book.

Further scrutiny is applied to Wendelle Stevens' statements, particularly his claim of not being a "one-fourth partner in Genesis III." The authors present evidence, including a written statement, suggesting Stevens previously identified himself as such, implying a potential misrepresentation or fabrication on Stevens' part.

Stevens' claim that Meier sought no publicity is also refuted. The article states that Meier began publishing pamphlets about his "encounters" in Europe in September 1976, long before Stevens was reportedly aware of him. Samples of Meier's literature, including one where he claims to be the "14th disciple of Jesus Christ," are mentioned as being available for MUFON files.

Investigation into Assassination Attempts and Meier's Background

An associate of the authors, Mr. Franco Kleppe from Switzerland, is cited as stating that there is "no evidence" of any assassination attempts on Meier or Stevens, contrary to potential implications. Kleppe, who is familiar with Meier's claims, reportedly spent time with Meier's followers and even met the "Pleiadean cosmonaut" Senjase, describing her as "quite human."

Stevens is quoted as describing Meier as someone who "gets great satisfaction out of fooling authorities." This sentiment was reportedly shared by Stevens with Jim Lorenzen, Al Reed, Paul Cerny, and others. The article notes discrepancies between Stevens' account and that of Jim Lorenzen regarding a specific event.

Analysis of De Anza Systems Involvement

A significant portion of the article focuses on the role of De Anza Systems, Inc., in the analysis of Meier's photographs. Stevens' claim that De Anza Systems is not mentioned in his book is challenged by pointing to the "Acknowledgement" section of the original 'Pleiades' version, which thanks De Anza Systems for their computer graphics systems used to illustrate test procedures. This passage was allegedly omitted from a "revised" version. Furthermore, the article claims De Anza Systems is mentioned in computer enhancement photos on page 53, suggesting their involvement in the analysis, despite Stevens' denials.

Korff and Moore reportedly conducted interviews with De Anza Systems officials, learning that Stevens and his associates did not approach De Anza for their equipment's quality but rather for a free demonstration. Ken Dinwiddie, referred to by Stevens, stated that De Anza's equipment "is not analytical in nature." The article suggests De Anza demonstrated their techniques because they believed Stevens was a potential customer.

Jim Dilettoso is identified as the "expert" utilized by Genesis III for testing. His credentials are questioned, noting he has six years at the University of Connecticut without a degree and experience with "laser" light displays. A check of the Science Citations Index for 1975-1981 revealed no published papers by James Dilettoso on computer analysis or any other subject.

Scrutiny of Dr. Neil Davis's Report

The report by Dr. Neil Davis, referenced by Wendelle, is examined. When Korff spoke to Dr. Davis, he was informed that the analysis of a photograph (claimed by Wendelle to be a second-generation print) was inconclusive because it was "at least third generation or better." Davis's statement that nothing was found to indicate a hoax was allegedly exaggerated by Genesis III to imply authenticity.

Meier's Followers and Financial Practices

The article addresses Stevens' reference to twenty-three "witnesses," characterizing them as Meier's recruited followers. It draws a parallel to the "Bo and Peep" scam, suggesting that followers must relinquish personal property and money. It is also noted that Meier reportedly charges $50.00 per hour for interviews.

Origin of Visitors and Astronomical Data

The article questions the consistency of claims regarding the origin of Meier's "alien visitors." Despite the book 'UFO... Contact from the Pleiades' and references to "Pleiadean cosmonauts" like Semjase, Asket, Ptaal, and Plaja, the authors highlight astronomical data that contradicts the notion of the Pleiades being "some tens of millions of years old" or "one billion years old." Dr. J. Allen Hynek and Robert Jastrow are cited, stating that the Pleiades are a poor candidate for extraterrestrial life and are only about 60 million years old, with Type A stars having a lifespan of about 500 million years.

Photographic Analysis and Expert Opinions

The analysis of Meier's photographs is a central theme. The article discusses the involvement of GSW Inc. and Spatial Data Systems. It refutes Stevens' claims about the limitations of Spatial Data Systems' equipment and their involvement in the analysis, stating that Spatial Data Systems was not the contractor for the work on Meier's photos. The authors express satisfaction with the quality of the work performed by the actual contractor.

Dr. Bruce Maccabee, an optical physicist and photographic consultant to MUFON, is quoted stating that a statement regarding camera optics made by the authors was "essentially correct." He also denied designing a program for Spatial Data Systems, contrary to Stevens' claims, and expressed surprise at Stevens' assertion.

Discrepancies and Questionable Evidence

• The article highlights several discrepancies and questionable aspects of the evidence:
• Disintegration vs. Transportation: Stevens offered two different explanations for a missing tree in a photograph of a "contact" site: one involving disintegration due to radiation from a Pleiadean spacecraft, and another suggesting the tree was transported into another time dimension.
• First Generation Prints: The article confirms that Korff obtained first-generation copies of Meier's photographs, which Meier freely gave to Wilfried Falk. It disputes Stevens' assertion that "no first generation copies of the photos were let out of Meier's hands."
• Stolen Photos: Photographs received by Colman von Keviczky from Hans Jacob are claimed to have been stolen from Meier and show "damning evidence" such as "models of UFOs in the Meier barn."
• Out-of-Focus Images: GSW's statement that some of Meier's photographs are out-of-focus is deemed correct and obvious upon visual examination.
• Model Photography Experiment: Stevens' "experiment" of photographing a small model is criticized as irrelevant to the core issue of whether Meier's camera could achieve reasonable focus on nearby objects.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of this publication is skepticism and critical analysis of the Billy Meier case and the claims made by Wendelle Stevens and his associates. The editorial stance is clearly one of debunking, highlighting inconsistencies, questioning the credibility of sources and experts, and emphasizing the lack of verifiable, impartial evidence. The article repeatedly accuses Stevens of misrepresenting facts, making "ludicrous claims," and engaging in "deliberate distortion of the truth." The publication positions itself as a source of factual investigation, contrasting its approach with what it perceives as the unsubstantiated and often contradictory narratives presented by proponents of the Meier case.

This document, spanning pages 13-15 of "Pleiades in Fact & Fiction," critically analyzes the UFO photographs attributed to Billy Meier. It challenges the authenticity of these images, presenting arguments and evidence to suggest they were produced using models and photographic techniques rather than genuine encounters with extraterrestrial craft.

Analysis of Meier's Photographs

The article begins by stating that it is possible to produce "UFO" photographs using small models close to the camera. It addresses Wendelle Stevens' contention that the Swiss sky in Meier's vicinity is usually white and does not cast shadows, noting that shadows are indeed visible in many of Meier's photos, though they are slight. The authors suggest that before publication, Meier's photos were "enhanced" to make them more presentable, possibly to conceal balloons and supporting structures. Fortunately, first-generation copies acquired by Korff, some of which appear in his book, provide clearer evidence.

A significant point of discussion is the suspension "string" that appears in one of the enhanced GSW photos. The authors assert that the enhancement is not cropped and that the string extends to the top of the frame. A refined enhancement using color contouring revealed the entire string, verifying it as a supportive wire or thread. Moore renews his offer for an independent analysis of the internegative, challenging Wendelle Stevens to submit it without conditions.

Dr. Maccabee is cited for the point that computers can only detect what is present in the film. The article posits that Meier likely used transparent fishing line, similar to Moore's test photos, to hang his models. The visibility of these strings in Meier's photos is attributed to advantageous photographic angles and illumination by the sun, making them resolvable by the film. The authors emphasize that the detection of a string, regardless of its length, confirms its presence.

Regarding the "cropping" debate, the document states that copies of original photos showing strings were provided to MUFON's files, demonstrating that no cropping occurred. The authors challenge Stevens to present contrary evidence. It is mentioned that Wendelle admitted to Moore in November 1981 that he lacked hard evidence in the Meier case and relied on his impressions.

The notion that Meier shot all his photos "from the hip" is dismissed as absurd. The authors argue that it would be impossible to take 800 photos of a flying object and achieve reasonably framed shots in every instance. Moore's experiment with a kite yielded only three usable frames, none centered. This leads to speculation that Meier might have "pre-exposed" his film or that the camera he claimed to use was not functional.

The article also questions Wendelle's claim about the distance to the nearest photographic lab from Meier's location. It points out that Canton Zurich is only about fifty kilometers across at its widest point, with major cities like Zurich, Winterthur, and Schaffhausen within thirty kilometers of the Meier farm.

Statements by Stevens claiming the Meier farm lacks running water, electricity, or a barn are contradicted by photos in the "Pleiades" book, which clearly show all three.

Furthermore, the photo Stevens claimed appeared in "UFOs and Space" but not in Korff's book is confirmed to be on pages 8 & 9 of Korff's book. The branches of the tree in a photo allegedly taken by Meier on March 29, 1976, near Hasenbol-Langenberg, are indeed behind the "UFO," as established by edge enhancement processing visible in Kal's book.

Conclusion on Wendelle Stevens and Meier's Case

In conclusion, the authors express their considered opinion that Wendelle Stevens' "case" for Billy Meier is fabricated and non-existent. They believe that regardless of any "Responses" or rebuttals, Stevens cannot salvage his reputation due to his involvement in this affair. The article stresses the paramount importance of credibility in Ufology, suggesting that without it, Stevens will continue to face reputational decline.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this excerpt are the critical examination of photographic evidence in UFO cases, the potential for hoaxing through models and photographic manipulation, and the importance of credibility in the field of Ufology. The editorial stance is highly skeptical of Billy Meier's claims and critical of Wendelle Stevens' defense of them, advocating for rigorous analysis and evidence-based conclusions.