CUFORG - Vol 2 No 29 - 1988 08

Magazine Overview

This issue of the Cambridge UFO Research Group Newsletter, Volume II, Issue No. 29, dated August 1988, focuses on a variety of UFO-related topics, including an upcoming television documentary, recent sightings, and a philosophical and theological analysis of the phenomenon.

Television Documentary on UFO Cover-Up

The lead article, "American government's UFO cover-up exposé on TV Oct.14" by Lawrence J. Fenwick, announces a two-hour television special documentary scheduled for October 14, 1988. This "live" show, to be aired on Global TV in Ontario and LBS in the United States, is titled "The UFO Cover-up: What is the Government Hiding?" It is produced by Michael Seligman Productions and aims to expose the U.S. government's alleged cover-up of UFO truths. The documentary is expected to feature artwork by Syd Meade, a speech by Jaime Shandera from the MUFON UFO Symposium, and interviews with individuals from the former Project Blue Book, ufologists like Budd Hopkins, and individuals involved in major UFO events, including members of the military intelligence community. A significant portion of the production is expected to focus on the MJ-12 documents. Tracy Torme, who has a small role in the production, noted that it would contain more information on the MJ-12 documents than previously aired. Torme, however, expressed skepticism about the documentary changing the minds of skeptics. The documentary is expected to cover 95 percent of the U.S. market through approximately 150 to 190 television stations. It is noted that showing times may vary by time zone, and members are advised to check their TV guides. Publicity for the show was previously noted in Variety Magazine.

Other UFO Programs and Media

The newsletter also mentions that NBC TV in the U.S. is planning two UFO shows in the near future, one focusing on the Gulf Breeze, Florida case and another on abductions. The newsletter questions whether these programs will change the minds of those in the U.S. military who wish to continue the cover-up.

Recent UFO Sightings

Several brief UFO sightings are reported:

• August 15, 1988: In Ayr, Ontario, a retired pilot, age 60, reported seeing a bright light with a tail, similar to a meteor, at an altitude of 25,000 feet. It was travelling at high speed, made a radical 90-degree turn, and disappeared.
• October 5, 1988: Two witnesses in Waterloo, Ontario, observed a bright ball of light, approximately 10 feet across, high in the sky. It descended rapidly, hovered briefly, and then shot off at high speed.
• September 24, 1988: In Cambridge, Ontario, Brian and his family witnessed two slow-moving lights, followed by six more, described as pinpoints of light with no discernible shape. They were too high for planes and moving slowly, some faster than others. One light went off course, and two flashing lights were observed blinking on and off. The elevation was 80 degrees, and the movement was compared to a hot air balloon. The temperature was 65 degrees.

Hints of 'Planet-Like' Objects

An article by Andrew Purvis reports on a potential discovery by B.C. astronomer Dr. Bruce Campbell of the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory. Using a new high-precision observing technique, Campbell has found hints of "planet-like" objects orbiting neighboring stars. This is hailed as a significant step in the search for extraterrestrial life. Dr. Robert Garrison, head of a Chilean observatory, stated that these findings could be the first hard evidence of planets outside our solar system. Campbell and his colleagues will publish their results, which involve analyzing the gravitational pull of potential orbiting planets. The technique uses a hydrogen fluoride gas to strip away distracting signals. The probable presence of planet-like objects has been detected around two stars, with possible presence around five others, though confirmation requires observing a star's full periodic cycle.

Asteroid Threat

A brief report from Moscow mentions a Soviet scientist, Alexander Voytsekhovsky, who stated that humankind must build a space interceptor to destroy a giant asteroid, known as 1983 TV, which is on a collision course with Earth in the year 2115.

Commentary: UFOs and a Coherent World-View

John Paul Oswald contributes a lengthy commentary titled "Commentary 1420-4-4," exploring the UFO phenomenon as a challenge to forming an intellectually defensible world-view. Oswald argues that the phenomenon has been influenced by sensationalized media, deliberate government programs, and its inherently unexpected nature. He posits that for an informed view, the authentic UFO must be regarded as an artifact of Alien intelligence, and that empirical observations of UFO-Alien presence take precedence over a lack of precise mechanistic comprehension. He highlights the superior flight capabilities and extraterrestrial origin of UFOs, indicating space travel capability.

Oswald presents a model for analyzing the UFO-Alien phenomenon, involving analysis, a situation model (comprising Aliens' Present and Aliens' Intentions), probability qualification, and ramifications. He suggests that UFOs are, in the main, vehicles flown by forms of Alien intelligence, likely carbon-based. He notes that contemporary research into alien abductions supports this hypothetical foundation.

The commentary then delves into the implications of the UFO-Alien presence for various fields, including political science, education, and the media, suggesting that institutions are corrupted by their failure to address this issue. He criticizes the U.S. government's active imposition of a "false view" on the public regarding this major observational reality.

UFOs and Christian Theology

Oswald examines the UFO-Alien phenomenon in relation to Christian theology, finding it a difficult but instructive area. He bypasses contemporary Fundamentalist Christian Theology due to what he perceives as a lack of intellectual soundness in their interpretations of biblical texts and physical science, suggesting they might attribute UFOs to the Devil. He notes that the Roman Catholic Church is aware of the phenomenon but avoids meaningful comment, and also finds its theological rigor inadequate for a fully informed analysis. Oswald references "The Interpreter's Bible" as an example of scholarly Protestant theology attempting an objective evaluation of Christianity.

He proposes that the UFO-Alien presence is directly linked to the concept of the "Second Coming of Christ," suggesting that the UFO-Aliens are the operational force behind this event. He critiques a "counterfeit Christianity" that has emerged, devoid of the promise of the actual Second Coming. Oswald concludes that a correct evaluation of the UFO-Alien presence must be made in Christian terms, and that the probability qualification for the UFO-Aliens being the operational force of the Second Coming is either zero or unity.

He further contemplates the history of Christianity and the need for a Christian Church to relate harmoniously with the objective reality of UFO-Aliens. Looking to the future, he suggests that humans are surrounded by a superior force whose modern activities correlate with military events. He raises the question of whether a large-scale nuclear exchange among humans would trigger an overt UFO-Alien takeover of Earth, indicating that UFO-Aliens might intervene decisively in such a scenario.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently promotes the investigation of UFO phenomena, presenting reports of sightings and analyses of potential extraterrestrial involvement. There is a strong emphasis on the idea of a government cover-up and the existence of advanced alien intelligence. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging members to stay informed and critically evaluate information, particularly concerning the implications of UFOs for established scientific, political, and religious frameworks. The inclusion of Oswald's detailed commentary suggests a willingness to engage with complex philosophical and theological interpretations of the UFO phenomenon.

This issue of "Phenomenon" (Vol. 2, No. 3, 1987, Price: £3.95) explores various facets of the UFO phenomenon, focusing on scientific investigation, cultural impact, and specific case studies. The magazine is edited by John Spencer and Hilary Evans and published by Futura.

Article: UFO-Alien Factor and Military-Economic Status

This article discusses the potential impact of the UFO-Alien factor on the global military-economic status. It suggests that nuclear war experiments should not be contemplated as a means to achieve peace and that attacking UFO-Aliens with advanced weapons should be excluded. The author posits that new constraints, altered military alignments, and revised resource allocation could lead to improvements in the human condition, with the UFO-Alien factor providing a backdrop for a reconfigured military-economic status.

Article: Scientific Evaluation of UFO-Alien Intentions

This piece critically examines the stance of secular science regarding UFOs and space exploration. It notes that despite thousands of documented encounter cases, many physical scientists refuse to consider UFO events as manifestations of alien intelligence. The article criticizes the behavioral scientists' rationalizations and highlights the "all-or-nothing" posture of influential scientists who, while believing in advanced extraterrestrial intelligence, deem interstellar travel infeasible. It argues that these scientists often dismiss observational UFO data and advance self-serving assumptions, such as the idea that aliens would conduct scientific experiments or transmit beneficial information.

The author draws an analogy to historical instances where prevailing cultural powers defended scientifically unsound ideas, like fossils being produced by the Great Flood or Earth being the center of the universe. This comparison is used to critique current scientific estimates regarding alien intentions, suggesting they are based on unfounded belief rather than objective analysis. The article also touches upon the theological implications, questioning the nature of God, morality, and the functioning of a perfected social order in the absence of divine guidance.

It further discusses the pervasiveness of UFO-Alien ramifications in social interactions, noting the incongruity of discussing diverse topics like history, theology, and exobiology while encountering ignorance and misinformation about UFOs. The author suggests that education, particularly in high school biology and political science, should address UFO-Aliens and the U.S. Federal involvement in the debate.

Article: UFO-Alien Presence and Federal Suppression

This section highlights that reliable information on the UFO-Alien phenomenon largely comes from civilian organizations that have made substantial gains over four decades. It notes that this data primarily pertains to the reality of the UFO-Alien presence rather than their intentions. The article suggests that if UFO-Aliens are the operational force of the Second Coming of Christ, then individual and corporate conduct can be managed through this framework. It poses questions about the functioning of alien and idealized human space-age societies and plans for improving contemporary human societies, emphasizing the need to consider fundamental principles of justice and human commonality.

An analysis of social systems and social engineering is discussed, including statistical rates for infant mortality, literacy, crime, divorce, and other societal factors. The article stresses the importance of assessing cultural achievement, understanding the physical world, and the intellectual defensibility of beliefs. It advises social leadership to carefully consider the validity of promoted philosophies, faiths, and ideologies, advocating for human society to strive for more than being an ensemble of fanatics, robots, or indulgent consumer units.

Article: Human Societies and Coexistence with UFO-Aliens

The author proposes that human societies should make suitable adjustments to incorporate essential principles of morality, realistic economic efficiencies, and an open treatment of factual information. It suggests that human culture is entering a new era of coexistence with UFO-Aliens. The article estimates that the time left until unification with UFO-Aliens (the Second Coming) might not exceed one or two hundred years, with events like a worldwide energy crisis or nuclear proliferation being significant indicators. It also suggests that a condition of eminent nuclear hostility would likely produce markedly enhanced UFO-Alien activity.

Two related general subject areas are identified as of extreme interest: the extent of UFO-Alien activity before their decisive operation, and how openly human societies will relate to them. The author anticipates intermittent UFO-Alien activity, with periods of inactivity possible. The article notes that in the U.S.A., despite Federal suppression, civilian researchers are well-informed, and the UFO topic is commonplace. It questions what will be taught if humans train astronauts for direct exchanges with these aliens.

Finally, the article concludes that there is no place to hide and no good reason to try. It advocates for a courageous attitude of unrestricted and positive acceptance of UFO-Aliens, warning that the alternative will likely yield a bitter harvest.

Outreach: Greg Long's Research on Orange Balls of Light

Greg Long, a MUFON Field Investigator, is researching over 200 UFO sightings on the Yakima Indian Reservation in Washington State since 1964. These sightings, which peaked in the early to mid-1970s, typically describe a "bright orange ball of light" that appears to be a larger object with seeming intelligence, not ball lightning. Long became involved in 1981 and found that UFOs are indeed seen on the reservation, which he describes as an ideal "window" area for UFO observations.

The phenomenon began to be documented in August 1971 when Willard J. (Bill) Vogel, Chief Fire Control Officer, witnessed and photographed a luminescent teardrop-shaped light. Vogel's skepticism turned into a conscious awareness of inexplicable aerial phenomena, and he began documenting sightings, becoming a trusted source for reports on the reservation.

Long investigated the "Tectonic Strain Theory" proposed by neurophysiologist Michael Persinger and geophysicist John Derr. This theory suggests that strain build-up in earthquake-prone regions releases electromagnetic-field "columns" that ionize atmospheric gases, creating glowing plasma balls. While Persinger and Derr found statistical correlations between reservation UFOs and earthquakes, Long found their analysis incomplete, particularly regarding the physical mechanism for generating and sustaining the plasma and binding electric fields.

Long is testing the Tectonic Strain Theory by comparing case reports to the theory's aspects. He concludes that while some matches exist (e.g., color and shape), the theory is woefully incomplete. He appeals to readers of "California UFO" to share any reports of orange balls of light, including photographic evidence, from California or elsewhere, to further test the theory. He emphasizes that science, and ufology, must embrace criticism and testing for progress.

Outreach: Bonnie Wheeler's Inquiry

Bonnie Wheeler, listed in the "Who's Who in Ufology Directory," is contacted by an unnamed researcher who is investigating sightings of orange balls of light. The researcher is seeking information and photographic evidence from Wheeler's files, as responses from other researchers have been poor. The researcher describes the balls of light as orange, red-orange, yellow-orange, or whitish-orange, often hovering or moving laterally, sometimes rising from behind structures and extinguishing instantly. In rare instances, they have been observed to divide or merge. The balls are usually silent.

Article: "Phenomenon" Book Review/Excerpt

This section introduces a book titled "Phenomenon," edited by John Spencer and Hilary Evans, published on March 17, 1988, for £3.95. It recounts Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting of nine bright saucer-like objects flying at "incredible speed" at 10,000 feet altitude. Arnold, a U.S. Forest Service employee, described the objects as weaving in and out of formation and estimated their speed at 1200 miles an hour. The text notes that flying saucers were not a sudden phenomenon in 1947, with people seeing aerial phenomena for thousands of years, and that writers like Verne, Wells, and Burroughs had laid psychological groundwork. It suggests that an "intelligence" is operating, raising questions about whether extraterrestrials visit our planet, are watching, contacting, or kidnapping humans.

Map of Yakima Indian Reservation UFO Sightings

A map is included showing the Yakima Indian Reservation, with marked "UFO's" (represented by black dots) and "LOOK-OUT STATIONS" (represented by triangles). Several locations are labeled, including Satus Peak, Signal Peak, Sopelia Lookout, and David's Peak. The map illustrates the distribution of reported UFO sightings across the reservation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of unexplained aerial phenomena, particularly "orange balls of light," and the scientific and cultural implications of these sightings. There is a strong emphasis on empirical research, data collection, and the testing of theories, such as the Tectonic Strain Theory. The magazine appears to advocate for a rational, open-minded approach to ufology, encouraging public participation in research and the sharing of information. The editorial stance, as indicated by the "CONTACT" section disclaimer, is not to endorse specific beliefs but to serve as a platform for information and discussion on the UFO phenomenon. The issue also touches upon the potential societal and even theological implications of extraterrestrial intelligence.

Title: Phenomenon
Issue Date: 17 March 1988
Publisher: Futura
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

This issue of "Phenomenon" magazine delves into various aspects of ufology, featuring personal accounts, book reviews, and discussions on unexplained aerial phenomena (UAP).

Article: Gerry Mitchell's UAP Sighting

The issue opens with an account of Gerry Mitchell, a former RAF pilot, who reported seeing several balls of green fire, described as a UAP, near Carrington, Lancashire. The sighting occurred over an oil refinery complex and was brief, lasting only seconds. Mitchell later underwent regression hypnosis conducted by a qualified doctor in Manchester, but no deeper memories emerged beyond a graphic reliving of the sighting.

Discussion on ET and Scientific Study

The magazine highlights that topics such as contact with extra-terrestrials, alien abductions, photographic evidence, government 'cover-ups', and the implications of extraterrestrial life for mankind are explored. It culminates in a discussion on the debate between scientific study and scepticism.

Endorsement for a Book

Major Sir Patrick Wall, MC VRD RM (Retd), provides a strong endorsement for a book, stating, "BUFORA is to be congratulated for putting together the evidence of those who believe and those who disbelieve. This is one of the most important books on ufology ever published, and it should command a wide public."

BUFORA and Contributors

John Spencer and Hilary Evans are identified as members of BUFORA (British Unidentified Flying Object Research Association). The contributors to the publication are described as recognised experts in their field, with many having published their own books. Both editors are noted as being available for interviews around publication.

Book Review: Extra-Terrestrials Among Us

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a book review of "EXTRA-TERRESTRIALS AMONG US" by George C. Andrews, published by Llewellyn Publications. The review, written by John F. Schuessler, suggests the book will be polarizing, loved by some and criticized by hardcore ufologists. Andrews is noted for his interest in UFOs and extraterrestrials. The book reportedly begins by discussing cover-up stories, referencing Fawcett's book "CLEAR INTENT," and the work of France's official UFO investigative agency, GEPAN. It covers substantial UFO cases to build a case for unusual occurrences. The review praises the treatment of the official United States E.T. Law. However, the reviewer expresses a personal bias against the ancient astronauts theory, finding that Andrews' historical section, "From Deep Antiquity to Modern Times," weakens his case for extraterrestrial visitations, despite presenting new viewpoints mixed with familiar material from authors like Erich Von Daniken regarding pyramid construction. The review suggests that the extraterrestrial premise is further damaged by the look at pyramid construction, arguing that pyramidologists have already credibly explained the construction without needing extraterrestrial constructors. The section on suicides is compared to the feelings of many ufologists, though not publicly admitted, and the reviewer suggests it could have been more impactful if fewer suicides were covered in greater detail. The omission of non-UFO material, such as the Karen Silkwood case, is also suggested as a way to strengthen the book. The chapter on Mysterious Mutilations is deemed too brief for its complex subject matter. The "Space Tribes Signal" chapter is also found to be lacking, with a brief mention of Leonard Stringfield's work on crash case investigations being credible but shallow. The review notes that while other authors provide detailed abduction case descriptions, Andrews largely ignored better cases in favor of a lengthy dissertation described as having a "split personality."

Overall, "EXTRA-TERRESTRIALS AMONG US" is described as a "potpourri of information" with strong points diluted by spurious information on topics like fish falls and spontaneous combustion, making it difficult for publishers to target a specific market. Novices might find it inspiring, while critics may call for censorship. Seasoned ufologists are expected to find little new material. The book's best feature is considered to be its role in keeping the UFO mystery alive and open for scrutiny, with Andrews having "drawn a new battle line."

Case Study: Glenview, Illinois

An article accompanied by an image and diagrams details a case from Glenview, Illinois, described as a "COMMUNICATIONS BASE FOR OUTER SPACE." It recounts a two-hour Outer Space encounter where five colored discs were displayed on a bookcase glass door. By decoding these discs, the "SHARON UFO CODE" was developed. The copyright for the image is attributed to I. W. Whiteside, 1982.

Publication Information

"PHENOMENON" is published on 17 March 1988. For further information and interview requests, readers are directed to contact Jane Birch at 01 377 4978. The magazine is a division of Futura, part of Macdonald, a BPCC plc company, with offices located at 3rd Floor, Greater London House, Hampstead Road, London NW1 7QX.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the UFO phenomenon, encompassing sightings, alleged alien contact, and government involvement. The editorial stance appears to encourage open discussion and investigation into these topics, as evidenced by the review of "Extra-Terrestrials Among Us" and the general content. There's an emphasis on presenting evidence and allowing readers to form their own conclusions, as suggested by the phrase "Make up your own mind - but don't wait too long..." The publication seems to cater to an audience interested in the more speculative and investigative aspects of ufology, balancing personal accounts with critical analysis and reviews of relevant literature.