Data Net - No 61 - 1972

Magazine Overview

Title: DATA-NET
Issue: Vol. VI No. 7
Date: July 1972
Publisher: DATA-NET
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of DATA-NET, the publication of the UFO Amateur Radio Network, is dated July 1972 and presents a variety of content related to UFO research and sightings. The cover features the network's name and address, along with a graphic of a radio tower. The issue includes announcements, articles, a bibliography, and information on membership and services.

Key Articles and Content

A Lightning UFO - by Mike Jaffe

Mike Jaffe, the director of DATA-NET, recounts a personal sighting of a UFO while cruising the Gulf of Mexico in his 33-foot motorboat. On May 19, 1972, near Cedar Keys, Florida, at approximately 9:25 p.m., Jaffe observed a dark, perfectly round, spherical object in the sky. The object was estimated to be about one mile distant and one mile in height. It was visible only during frequent lightning flashes, appearing as a silhouette. Jaffe noted that the object had no appendages and was not a balloon. He watched it for about twenty minutes before a sudden change in wind forced him to move his vessel, after which the object was no longer visible. Jaffe expresses his puzzlement over the sighting.

Astronauts and UFOs - by Mike Jaffe

In this article, Mike Jaffe discusses conversations he had with Doug Cooper, skipper of the 'Eloise'. Cooper mentioned that his father, Gordon Cooper (an ex-astronaut now in real estate), and approximately fifty other astronauts are very concerned about UFOs and believe they are real, with some thinking they originate from other planets. Cooper also recalled an incident where astronauts saw "little flakes out of the window" and were followed by an unknown object, which Jaffe identified as possibly the satellite Pegasus.

Science and UFOs: A Selected Bibliography of UFO Research Papers - by Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos

This section provides an extensive bibliography of UFO research papers, compiled by Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos, President of CEONI. The author states that the compilation aims to be a service to scientific ufologists, covering research findings, phenomenon analysis, and methodology. The bibliography includes over 80 entries, with titles, authors, and publication details, spanning various journals and books from the 1950s to the early 1970s. Olmos encourages DATA-NET members and other readers to contribute to this ongoing effort by sending in scientific pieces he may not have consulted.

Other Content

The issue also includes a "Sighting Report Index" for October, November, and December 1971, and mentions "Clipping the News: UFO Reports." There are also sections for "Shop & Swap" and "Research Library," offering services to members. Information about back issues and special reports is also provided. A correction notice addresses typographical errors from the previous month's issue.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of DATA-NET revolve around personal UFO sightings, the interest and concern of astronauts regarding UFOs, and the academic and scientific study of the phenomenon through extensive bibliographies. The editorial stance, as indicated by the publication's focus and the content selection, is one of serious investigation and information sharing within the UFO community, particularly among those with amateur radio interests. The network actively encourages contributions and provides resources for its members.

Title: 1896 AIRSHIP SIGHTINGS
Issue: PART II
Date: November 25, 1896

This section of '1896 AIRSHIP SIGHTINGS' delves into the mysterious aerial phenomena reported in late 19th century California, alongside reviews and listings of contemporary UFO literature and sightings from various global locations.

1896 Airship Sightings in California

Red Bluff, California (November 25, 1896)

Numerous residents of Red Bluff reported seeing an alleged airship on the evening of November 25, 1896. Initially mistaken for a bright star, the object was observed moving rapidly in a southwesterly direction towards the mountains before disappearing. Later, a telegram from Chico indicated the airship had passed that town shortly after 1 o'clock. The object reportedly reappeared over Red Bluff and then proceeded towards Leesville. Several witnesses claimed that while only a light was initially visible, the body of an egg-shaped object became discernible, moving quickly through the air. The theory of it being a star was dismissed due to its distinct rocking motion, likened to that of a kite.

Oakland, California (November 25, 1896)

The same mysterious object was reportedly seen by a large number of Oakland residents earlier that evening. This led to some doubt among observers, with some suggesting the visions might be meteors or comets participating in a celestial display. Charles White of East Oakland positively identified seeing the airship. He described crossing on the 6:15 o'clock ferry from San Francisco, during which passengers noticed a mysterious visitor in the heavens near South San Francisco. The object rapidly approached and raced the boat across the bay, reaching Alameda by the time the boat docked. Passengers on a train and later an Eighth Street electric car could clearly discern the object, though it was distant.

A. B. Parker, a conductor, corroborated White's story, stating that he and others watched the object until it disappeared. A scare arose when the airship's location was rumored to be in Alameda, but a visit to the described location revealed only the remains of an experimental torpedo boat. The uncertainty surrounding these events caused significant speculation, with streets lined with an inquisitive throng.

Enigmatological Survey: UFO Literature Reviews

Review of 'THE UFO EXPERIENCE' by J. Allen Hynek

Paul Braczyk reviews J. Allen Hynek's book, 'THE UFO EXPERIENCE,' recommending it as an excellent introductory text for both novice and veteran ufologists. Braczyk praises the book for its objective approach, avoiding excessive speculation, and for providing a solid foundation in ufology. The review highlights the book's structure: Part I addresses preconceptions about UFOs, Part II categorizes common sighting prototypes, and Part III critiques the US Air Force's investigative projects and the Condon Committee. Braczyk notes Hynek's reluctance to engage in speculative remarks but commends his courage in voicing positive opinions. The book is published by Henry Regnery Company and costs $6.95.

Other Publications Mentioned

Denis Stamoy's UFO/fortean publications, including 'STONE DOGFALL,' 'WORLD DISASTERS 1971-72,' and 'DAMNATION,' are mentioned as being available for free. The review encourages readers to write to Dennis Stamey at 7 Clairmont Ave., Asheville, N.C. 28804.

Enigmatological Trivia

A question is posed: 'Where is the planet Clarion supposedly located?' The answer is promised for the next month's column.

Review of 'YES! MOUNTAINS' by Billie Sea

Braczyk reviews 'YES! MOUNTAINS' by Billie Sea, describing it as a unique and refreshing book written in a personal narrative, diary-like style with a "folksy" flavor. The book centers around a 1948 auto trip and includes the author's thoughts on UFO sightings encountered during travels across the United States. It is available for $5.00 from Spark and Click Electric Service, Sedro-Woolley, Washington 98284.

SAGA Article Mention

The July/72 issue of SAGA is noted for an article titled 'THE UFO "RAID" THAT SPARKED A WHITE HOUSE ALERT!', written by Hayden Hewes. It concerns a supposed overheard telephone conversation about a UFO 'red alert' between NORAD and Tinker Air Force Base.

The Runestone Journal

A group in Texas dedicated to the revival of the old Norse religion publishes 'THE RUNESTONE' quarterly. It is available for $4.00 per year from The Runestone, Box 2552, Wichita Falls, Texas 76301.

Data-Net Report Acknowledgement

Josephine Clark is acknowledged by Dr. Hynek in 'THE UFO EXPERIENCE' for her contribution, and a sighting distribution map prepared by her appears on page 1.40.

The Flittering Finger of Fortean

This month's 'plecnastic pinky' is awarded to American Airlines for an incident involving a coffin falling from a plane due to a decompression explosion, which was initially mistaken for a 'skyfall.'

New Books Section

UNDERNEATH THE SPACE SHIPS by Charlotte Blodget

Described as a lost manuscript of George Adamski, recently discovered.

THE WRIGHT PATTERSON CONSPIRACY by Lt. Kelly Savage, U.S. Army Air Corp., Ret.

A critique of unidentified agencies within the U.S. government regarding secret information.

INDECENT AT EXETER by Fullman G. Olliver

Described with a provocative subtitle: 'How I was Raped by a 16 Foot Space Monster and Lived!'

THE HOLLOW MOON by Dr. Benjamin Mudgett

This book proposes that space people have escaped to the inside of a hollow moon.

Self Hypnosis and UFO Books

SELF HYPNOSIS, SELF TAUGHT by Lobsang Rampa

Promoted as an ancient secret of mind control.

A SCIENTIFIC BOOK ABOUT UFOS by Dr. Conway U. Conman (Scientist)

A large tome with simulated photographs, charts, and stick-figures, with an introduction by Burt Furngy. It details the progress of a committee that studied UFOs until grant money ran out.

RECOVERY FROM SELF-INDUCED TRANCE by T. L. Rampa

Offers several untested methods, intended as a companion to another Rampa book.

New Mars Photos Keep the Guessers Busy

This section discusses new photographs from the Mariner 9 mission, revealing unexplained features on Mars. Scientists are cautious but admit the possibility of free water, ice sheets, or crustal plate movements. The erosional processes observed are compared to arid regions on Earth. A theory suggests that Mars' axial wobble could lead to chaotic atmospheric conditions and local precipitation, potentially explaining the erosion. The possibility of alluvial fans formed by dust storms is also considered. The section notes that while Lowell's canals have not been found, one photograph (B05 of orbit 132) shows an inexplicable object on a wide, featureless plain, described as a pyramid-shaped feature with a roadlike streak.

Sighting Report Index (October, November, December 1971)

This section provides a detailed index of UFO sightings, categorized by type (Landings, Unusual Flight Patterns, Stationary, Continuous Flight, Indefinite Objects) and class (Pacing vehicles, Multiple objects, Physical appearance alters, Borderline objects). It includes sub-classifications for optical aids, photographs, effects, landed objects, near landings, occupants, and traces. The index lists date, location, day/time, code, witnesses, and a D-N number for each sighting.

Clipping the News

THEY STILL KEEP SEEING UFOS IN CARLYLE, ILLINOIS

March 1967 - Mascoutah, Ill.: Mrs. Leona Boeving reported a large, moon-shaped object with red lights outside her window. Neighbors later found a precise circle of dead clover in the field.

Summer 1971 - Carlyle, Ill.: Mrs. Rosetta Holmes and a friend saw a UFO described as an "orange glob" that moved straight across the sky, paused, hovered, and then ascended rapidly.

January 1972 - Bartelso, Ill.: Miss Donna Wilkins and her boyfriend saw lights moving in an odd pattern, which then resolved into a triangular object hovering over their car. The object, described as real big and made of metal beams, maintained its position even as they drove at high speeds.

January 8, 1972 - Beckemeyer, Ill.: Gerald Skiver saw a bright light cross the sky and then hover, traveling at the speed of a small aircraft without sound.

February 18, 1972 - Beckemeyer, Ill.: Mr. and Mrs. George Jannett reported a "real bright star" like object that passed over treetops at a low altitude.

April 14, 1972 - Kinnundy, Ill.: William L. Allen and his wife saw a bright light, estimated 80-100ft long, move across the sky with flames from the rear.

April 17, 1972 - Carlyle, Ill.: Mrs. Carrie Brink saw a red, flashing light dart across the sky, stop, and hover.

TWO REPORT UFO FALL (May 6, 1972 - Ashburton, New Zealand)

Two individuals reported seeing an object fall from space, described as a red, flaming ball with a white tail. Police suggested property owners in the area check for fallen objects.

FIFTH METAL BALL FOUND (May 12, 1972 - Ashburton, New Zealand)

A fifth metal ball was found on a South Island farm. Police noted the writing on this ball was more legible than on previous ones. The five metal spheres found in the Canterbury area were being examined, with speculation they might be from the Soviet Satellite Cosmos 482.

GLOWING UFO CRUISES OVER HAWKES BAY -- POLICE WATCH (May 18, 1972 - Hastings, New Zealand)

Several people, including three policemen, reported seeing a glowing unidentified flying object moving slowly over the Havelock Hills. Experts were baffled as to its origin.

May 19, 1972 - Hastings, New Zealand:

• Mr. P. J. O'Neil's son, Shane, saw a bright, saucer-shaped object hovering behind trees.
• Businessman Russell Orr, along with a police sergeant and two constables, tracked a barrel-shaped object for over an hour using a powerful telescope. They described it as moving slowly, pulsating, and unlike any known aircraft or balloon. The object's origin could not be identified by various New Zealand authorities.

FIVE UFO SIGHTINGS (May 26, 1972 - Hobart, Tasmania)

Officials from the Tasmanian Unidentified Flying Objects Information Centre (TUFOIC) reported five sightings, including a hovering spaceship seen by hundreds. Witnesses described three red lights and a dome-shaped object with landing legs.

SAUCER NEST NEAR SYDNEY (June 18, 1972 - Warragamba, N.S.W., Aust.)

Investigators examined strange marks on the ground, concluding it was a landing site for an unidentified flying object. A circular area of flattened grass and indentations suggested landing gear.

BRIGHT ORANGE UFO (June 19, 1972 - George AFB, California)

Two airmen reported seeing a bright orange object, estimated to be 375 feet in diameter, sink behind a building. No evidence of landing was found.

IOWA CRATERS (July 8-10, 1972 - Story City, Goldfield, Laurens, Iowa)

A believer in UFOs suggested that mysterious silver dust and craters found in Iowa soybean fields were caused by alien spaceships, discounting lightning as the cause. The craters were noted for their consistent width and depth and spacing.

Shop & Swap

This section includes a 'WANTED' ad for past issues of FLYING SAUCER REVIEW and information about subscribing to 'DATA-NET REPORT'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are historical UFO sightings, particularly from the late 19th century, and reviews of contemporary UFO literature. The publication appears to be dedicated to documenting and disseminating information about unexplained aerial phenomena, presenting eyewitness accounts and critical analyses of books and reports within the field. The editorial stance is one of serious inquiry into UFO phenomena, encouraging readers to engage with the subject matter through both historical records and current literature.