European Journal of UFO and Abduction Studies - vol 2-1

Magazine Overview

Title: European Journal of UFO and Abduction Studies
Issue: Volume 2(1)
Date: March 2001
ISSN: 1467-4785
Publisher: Totton Researchers of Ufology Theory and History (TRUTH)
Country: United Kingdom
Price: UK £4.75, Europe £5.75

This issue of the European Journal of UFO and Abduction Studies (EJUFOAS) is primarily focused on European ufological research. The cover prominently features "The EMBLA 2000 Mission in Hessdalen," highlighting a significant scientific expedition.

Editorial

Craig Roberts, the Editor-in-Chief, welcomes readers to Volume 2(1), expressing hope for a fruitful year for the journal in disseminating ufology research. He introduces new members to the Editorial Board, including David Clarke, Massimo Teodorani, Paolo Toselli, and Maurizio Verga, who will serve until at least September 2002. The editorial acknowledges the departure of several board members and thanks them for their contributions. Roberts notes that this issue predominantly features Italian research, with key papers on the reliability of eyewitnesses in the Trans-en-Provence case and information on the Hessdalen project. He also mentions a FORUM Debate article by Albert Budden on laboratory ball lightning production and expresses excitement about the EJUFOAS website, which had over 100,000 hits. He also shares that papers from EJUFOAS will be featured in a new psychology book he co-authored, aiming to increase readership. The journal's readership is expanding globally, with subscriptions increasing and prices remaining stable.

Key Articles and Features

The EMBLA 2000 Mission in Hessdalen

This article, authored by Massimo Teodorani, Stelio Montebugnoli, and Jader Monari, details a joint Italian-Norwegian scientific expedition in Hessdalen, Norway, in August 2000. The EMBLA Project, initiated in 1998, aims to study unexplained luminous atmospheric phenomena. The expedition focused on analyzing the radio spectrum in UHF, VLF, and ELF ranges using sophisticated radio receivers and spectrometers. Over 25 days, the instruments detected highly anomalous periodic signals with spike-like and Doppler-like morphologies, primarily in the VLF range. During skywatching sessions, luminous atmospheric phenomena of plasma-like and structured types were repeatedly sighted and photographed. The paper presents a preliminary report on the mission, describing both radio and visual phenomena and discussing speculative physical models for the anomalous radio signals.

The Hessdalen phenomenology has been officially recognized since 1984. The EMBLA project built upon earlier investigations by Erling Strand and his staff, expanding the frequency range, sensitivity, and automation of data acquisition. The project aims to map radio emissions from these phenomena to determine spectral energy distribution, emission mechanisms, and chemical composition. Since 1998, the Hessdalen Interactive Observatory (HIO) has been operating with automated video cameras, which, despite a decrease in the incidence of phenomena, have increased recording capabilities. The HIO system records targets exceeding a luminosity threshold and makes data available online. Analysis of video frames over two years indicates that the luminous phenomenon is uniformly and randomly distributed in the sky.

The EMBLA 2000 expedition utilized several automated radio instruments, including the ELFO unit (VLF-ELF Correlation Receiver and Spectrometer), the INSPIRE unit (VLF Receiver and Spectrometer), and the SS-5 and SENTINEL-1 units (spectrometers operating at 1420 MHz). A wide-band antenna connected to an HP spectrum analyzer was also used. All instruments were computer-controlled, and data was stored on CD ROMs for post-processing. The article includes figures illustrating the hourly and monthly number of luminous events reported between August 1998 and December 2000, as well as a spatial distribution map of luminous events.

Anomalous radio signals were frequently recorded during August 2000. Two main types of signals attracted attention: SPIKE signals, appearing as sharp, straight "narrow lines" in the 3-7kHz range, and DOPPLER signals, appearing as inclined "broad lines" in the 1-2kHz range. The Doppler signals indicated source velocities ranging from 10,000 to 100,000 km/sec, with shifts indicating both red-wards and blue-wards movement. These signals occurred day and night and were sometimes accompanied by other irregular signals suspected to be of natural origin. The data from the spectrometers, totaling 21 GBy, is undergoing post-processing to build a quantitative picture of the recorded radio phenomena.

Evaluation of Witness Reliability in the Trans-en-Provence UFO Event: The Results of an Italian Enquiry

This article, by Paolo Fiorino and Matteo Leone, presents the results of an Italian investigation into the reliability of witnesses involved in the Trans-en-Provence UFO event. (Details of the findings are not fully available from the provided pages).

Making Ball Lightning in the Laboratory - A New Breakthrough

Authored by Albert Budden, this article discusses a new breakthrough in the laboratory production of ball lightning. (Further details are not provided in the scanned pages).

Forum - Letter to the Editor

This section includes a letter from Albert Budden. (The content of the letter is not detailed in the scanned pages).

Biographies

David Clarke: Holds a Ph.D. in English Cultural Tradition and Folklore and a BA in Archaeology, Prehistory, and Medieval History from the University of Sheffield. He has authored seven books and numerous articles on the supernatural, folklore, and UFOs. Clarke teaches a folklore option at the University of Sheffield and is an Honorary Research Fellow. His journalism career began in the late 1980s, working as a news reporter and freelance journalist.

Massimo Teodorani: An astrophysicist from Emilia-Romagna, Italy, with a master's degree in astronomy and a Ph.D. in stellar physics from Bologna University. He has worked at observatories in Bologna and Napoli, specializing in non-stationary stars and using optical telescopes and the IUE ultraviolet satellite. He is a scientific advisor for CNR and SETI. Teodorani has conducted investigations into "anomalous luminous atmospheric phenomena" and is a scientific supervisor for the Italian Committee for Project Hessdalen, working on a geo-topographic map of luminous phenomenon recurrence areas. He has published in astrophysical and UFO journals and presented his research at scientific institutions.

Errata

An erratum is noted for a reference in Volume 1(2): Blackmore, S. & Cox, M. (2000) Alien Abductions, Sleep Paralysis and the Temporal Lobe. European Journal of UFO and Abduction Studies Vol 1(2), p.113-118.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal positions itself as an objective publication primarily for the European Ufological Community, aiming to foster debate and advance the field of ufology. It emphasizes rigorous scientific methodology and the publication of diverse papers, including historical, theoretical, empirical research, and European-specific issues. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into UFOs and abduction phenomena, encouraging peer review and discussion. The focus on the EMBLA mission and the Trans-en-Provence case highlights an interest in detailed, evidence-based investigations of anomalous phenomena, particularly those with a European connection. The journal also shows an interest in the scientific study of phenomena like ball lightning and the reliability of eyewitness accounts.

This issue of UFO Universe, Volume 1, Issue 10, dated August 2000, focuses on "The Hessdalen Phenomenon." The magazine presents findings from the EMBLA team's scientific expedition to Hessdalen, Norway, in August 2000, which aimed to monitor anomalous light phenomena and associated radio signals. The cover features a striking image of a luminous object in the sky.

Post-Processing Procedures for INSPIRE Receiver Data

The technical notes detail the post-processing procedures executed for data from the INSPIRE receiver. These include:

a) Internal Noise Extraction: To eliminate any source of instrumental noise.
b) External Noise Evaluation and Extraction: To eliminate noise from natural sources like solar and atmospheric activity, earth activity, and human artificial causes.
c) Micro Periodicity: To measure exact time intervals of spike events.
d) Periodicity of Doppler Reversal: To establish the cycle length between redshifts and blueshifts.
e) Period Variability: To verify how spike-to-spike intervals vary with time.
f) Macro Periodicity: To evaluate the duration of periods with continuous spike and Doppler events and their order.
g) Signal Intensity: To measure the amplitude of signals and their mode of appearance.
h) Signal Morphology: To verify different types of spike or Doppler signals.
i) Frequency Bandwidth or Shifts: To ascertain if frequency windows narrow or broaden, or if bandwidth shifts occur.
j) Radio-Optical Synchronicity: To deduce radio behavior during light phenomena sightings.

Optical Sightings and Typology

The operating team conducted visual observations at the Aspåskjölen site, near Finnsåhögda mountain, and in Elgsjøen (The Mouse Lake). They used various portable facilities, including video cameras, reflex cameras, image intensifiers, binoculars, and detectors. The "Hessdalen phenomenon" was found to be multiform, characterized by pulsating and constant lights, with defined or undefined contours, and varying durations.

Several types of optical sightings were documented:

• TYPE 1. Strong irregularly pulsating white lights: Observed at distances of 20-25 Km, south direction, between two mountains. These lights were white, lasted 10-30 seconds per pulse, appeared stationary, had very high luminosity with occasional saturated nuclei, and were approximately spherical. Sightings occurred over three nights at Aspåskjölen.
• TYPE 2. Faint regularly pulsating light with color changement: Seen at 6-7 Km, north direction, low in the sky. Colors included white, red, green, and blue, with luminosity changing from star-like to planet-like over 1-2 seconds. Duration was 40 minutes, with one event observed at Elgsjøen.
• TYPE 3. Point-like flashes: Observed at distances from 300 meters to 3 Km, in various directions, low in the sky or on the ground. Colors were white-blue and orange, with normally strong luminosity and short durations (1/2 seconds). These were numerous and could be point-like or line-like.
• TYPE 4. Diffuse flashes in the valley: Seen at 1-2 Km, west direction, low in the valley or on the ground. Characterized by very strong, sudden illumination of the valley, lasting 1/2 seconds. Two events were recorded.
• TYPE 5. Three co-moving lights in the sky: the “Triangle”: Moving from south to north, from low horizon to 80° altitude. The lights formed a triangular disposition, moved linearly, stopped, rotated, and then disappeared. Luminosity changed from Jupiter-like to star-like. Observed near Aspåskjölen and Finnsåhögda.
• TYPE 6. Small stationary light in the wood: Located about 100 meters east, behind trees in Aspåskjölen. It was white-yellow, neon-like, with constant low luminosity (100 W bulb-like), elliptical shape, and dimensions of 30-40 cm. Observed for about 10 minutes.

Figure 5 illustrates Doppler signals recorded by the INSPIRE receiver, showing blue-shifted and red-shifted signals. Figure 6 displays pulsating lights sighted from Aspåskjölen, including a saturated core at maximum intensity. Figure 7 shows a small light sighted near trees in Aspåskjölen.

Discussion

The EMBLA staff collected significant radio data and observed anomalous light phenomena. While sophisticated optical instrumentation was not available for this phase, the project plans to incorporate CCD frames and spectra in future phases. The consistency between the EMBLA team's sightings and those reported by Hessdalen inhabitants over 20 years supports the existence of the visual phenomenon. The report notes that unstructured and plasma-like lights often co-exist with "structured objects."

The study compared Hessdalen sightings with phenomena reported globally, finding similarities with reports from other world areas. The mission's scientific importance lies in accurately monitoring the radio range of the electromagnetic spectrum for an entire month, enabling precise mapping of the electromagnetic field in the Hessdalen area. Future work will involve checking radio signals recorded during optical sightings.

The EMBLA group identified "spike signals" in the VLF range that resemble signals observed by Norwegian spectrometers, microwave astrophysicists in Antarctica, and the "Elfrad group." These signals have been recorded across a broad frequency range, and further investigation is needed to determine if they are simultaneously received across all windows or if there are temporal shifts.

Physical Models for Spike and Doppler Signals

What could cause Spike Signals?

Two alternative models are proposed:

1. Pulsating Model: A uniformly emitting spherical source periodically turning on and off.
2. Rotating Model: A rotating spherical, cylindrical, or disk-like source with an emitting spot on its surface, observable when the spot is directed towards the observer.

The intensity variations of spike signals could indicate the gradual approaching or receding of a source, or sudden onset/disappearance due to fast velocities or sudden pulsation/rotation. It remains uncertain whether these sources are natural or artificial.

What could cause Doppler Signals?

Extremely high measured velocities (10,000 to 100,000 km/sec) cannot be produced by physical bodies in motion. The accepted physics theory suggests these velocities are due to particles accelerated to semi-relativistic velocities by an unidentified rotating spheroidal body along a collimated magnetic axis. A "lighthouse effect" is proposed, where misalignment between the magnetic acceleration axis and the rotation axis creates periodic signals. Different Doppler configurations depend on angles between axes and the line of sight. A "Doppler reversal" (blueshift to redshift) is explained by mono-polar particle injection from the north or south pole of the magnetic axis. A bi-polar mode, where both approaching and receding beams are observed, could explain continuous "bands" interrupted by periodic voids, occurring when the magnetic axis is perpendicular to the line of sight.

Figure 8 illustrates the pulsating and rotating models for spike signals. Figure 9 depicts the SPPE (Spinning and Precessing Particle Accelerator) model for Doppler signals, showing rotation axis (A), particle acceleration axis (B), and direction to observer (C). Figure 10 shows red-shifted, blue-shifted, and mixed signals.

Emission Mechanism

The proposed emission mechanism is similar to "pulsar mechanisms" and "relativistic outflow mechanisms" in astrophysics, combined in a specific framework. It is suggested that the "mystery source" exhibits both pulsing radio emission and particle acceleration, potentially imitating high-energy astrophysical phenomena like extragalactic jets or stars such as SS433. The possibility of unknown atmospheric mechanisms or propulsion systems is also considered.

Conclusion

Dr. Massimo Teodorani emphasizes that doing science involves "exploration" and "understanding." The Hessdalen phenomenon presents an opportunity to build new models for describing the physical world by quantitatively analyzing unknown phenomena. The primary goal is to establish the relationship between Hessdalen lights and detected radio signals. This requires studying the luminous component using portable astronomy-like sensors and analyzers, such as CCD imagers and spectrographs. The proposed technique, costing $10,000 or less, is considered naive but capable of yielding significant results, comparable to studying celestial objects by analyzing their electromagnetic radiation spectrum.

Acknowledgments

The authors express gratitude to Renzo Cabassi and the ICPH (Italian Committee for Project Hessdalen) for funding the expedition, and to CNR technicians for their technical support in installing equipment and conducting the mission.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the scientific investigation of anomalous aerial phenomena (UAP), the analysis of radio signals associated with these phenomena, and the development of physical models to explain observations. The editorial stance is one of rigorous scientific inquiry, emphasizing data collection, analysis, and the formulation of testable hypotheses, while acknowledging the limitations of current technology and the need for further research. The magazine promotes the idea that unexplained phenomena can serve as a "laboratory" for advancing our understanding of physics.

This issue of UFO DATA Magazine, identified as issue 19, focuses on detailed investigations into UFO events and the scientific methodologies employed to study them. It features an in-depth analysis of the Trans-en-Provence UFO event, a comprehensive look at the development of optical equipment for atmospheric phenomenon research, and an introduction to the Italian Committee for Project Hessdalen.

The Trans-en-Provence UFO Event: An Italian Enquiry

The central article examines the reliability of the witness in the Trans-en-Provence UFO event of January 8, 1981. The investigation, conducted by Paolo Fiorino and Matteo Leone of the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU), aimed to re-evaluate the witness's testimony, which had been questioned by some French researchers. The witness, Renato N., of Italian origin, was interviewed, with particular attention paid to linguistic and psychological aspects due to his imperfect French.

The inquiry concluded that the contradictions in the witness's statements were due to a lack of care and misinterpretations, rather than inherent unreliability. Allegations of hoaxing were dismissed as witty remarks stemming from misunderstandings. The investigation found no evidence to question the witness's trustworthiness, deeming him reliable. This aligns with the positive conclusions of the Pocantico workshop regarding UFO research, which emphasized the need for institutional support.

Previous Enquiries and Trace Analysis

The article summarizes previous investigations into the Trans-en-Provence incident, including those by the Gendarmerie and GEPAN (Groupement d'Etudes des Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non-identifiés). The Gendarmerie visited the site on January 9th, 1981, noting a flat area with two concentric circles and abrasion traces. Soil and alfalfa samples were collected and subjected to extensive analysis by various laboratories, including CNES, SNEAP, and Metz University.

The analysis revealed a strong mechanical pressure on the ground, superficial structural modifications (striations and erosion), a heating effect not exceeding 600 degrees, and the deposition of foreign elements like iron and zinc. Alfalfa samples showed a decrease in photosynthetic pigments and an increase in glucose content, suggesting an alteration of the photosynthetic apparatus possibly due to radiative energy emission.

Further analysis of soil samples by Jacques Vallée in 1988 also failed to detect artificial substances like cement, supporting the witness's account. However, the methodology of sample collection and analysis by GEPAN faced criticism regarding sample size and storage procedures. Despite this, the witness's testimony was deemed reliable by Velasco, and the hoax hypothesis was not supported by observations of his behavior.

Witness Description of the Object

The witness described the object as having the shape of two saucers, one inverted on top of the other, approximately 1.5m in height and lead-colored. It had a ridge around its circumference, and below the main body, two kinds of round pieces, possibly reactors or feet, extended about 20cm. The witness reported hearing a slight whistling sound and did not experience any disturbance of vision or hearing. Upon lifting off, the device kicked up a little dust, and four openings were visible below.

Appendix A: Optical Portable System

This section details the proposed optical equipment for future expeditions to Hessdalen and other locations with luminous phenomena. The system is designed for scientific treatment of acquired data and includes:

• LISÄÄ Megapixel CCD Camera: For scientific imaging.
• LISÄÄ Guider TV CCD VideoCamera: For movies and guiding.
• MEADE LX200 8" Telescope: An altazimuth mounted telescope capable of automatic scanning and pointing, with software to trigger the telescope upon detection of a light.
• Filter-Carrier Wheel: Incorporating U, B, V, R, I bandpass filters for photometry, a polarimetric filter for photo-polarimetry, and a RAINBOW OPTICS spectrographic grating for spectroscopy.
• TAMRON 28-300 mm Zoom Lens: For adjusting the field of view.
• Pentium III Portable Computer: For data acquisition and analysis.

The system aims to provide photon-collecting capability, high spatial resolution, and quantum efficiency to record surface details and answer scientific questions about the light distribution, morphology, energy emission, and spectral characteristics of luminous sources.

Appendix B. The Italian Committee for Project Hessdalen

Established in July 2000, this private research center was founded to support and disseminate scientific research on luminous atmospheric phenomena. The committee contributed to Hessdalen research with the attendance of its scientific co-ordinator, astronomer and astrophysicist Massimo Teodorani. Their future aims include further investigation of the Hessdalen phenomenon and reconnaissance in other sites on Earth where luminous phenomena have been reported.

The committee is composed of nine promoters: Renzo Cabassi, Nico Conti, Roberto Labanti, Maurizio Morini, Marco Orlandi, Marco Piraccini, Roberto Raffaelli, Massimo Silvestri, and Alessandro Zabini.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes the importance of rigorous scientific investigation into UFO phenomena, moving beyond anecdotal evidence to detailed data collection and analysis. The focus on witness reliability in the Trans-en-Provence case highlights the critical evaluation of human testimony. The detailed description of advanced optical equipment underscores the magazine's commitment to employing cutting-edge technology for research. The establishment of the Italian Committee for Project Hessdalen signifies a growing, organized effort in the scientific community to study unexplained aerial phenomena. The overall stance is one of serious, evidence-based inquiry into UFOs and related atmospheric events.

This document focuses on the analysis of a UFO sighting reported by Renato N. in Trans-en-Provence, France, on January 8, 1981. The analysis is based on his personal diary entries and interviews with investigators.

UFO Sighting as Reported into the Diary The article details how, during an interview, a previously undisclosed piece of information emerged: Renato N. kept a diary of daily events. A partial look at this diary revealed it contained empirical, chronological records of phone calls, visits, and works, written in Italian. For January 8, 1981, alongside annotations of phone calls, the diary reported a verbatim quotation: "Visto verso ore 17 atterrare un disco volante sul terreno qui davanti al capanno. Atterrato e ripartito quasi subito. Ero dietro a fare capanno per pompa dell'acqua" (translation: "Seen around 5 p.m. a flying disc landing above the land here in front of the shelter. Landed and left again almost at once. I was behind doing the shelter for the water pump"). The event was not given particular emphasis in the diary, and there was no mention of a trace. The expression "flying disc" was clarified by the witness, who stated that he used it because ufologists often used such terms, and he was merely adopting their language. He emphasized that he saw "a thing falling down" and did not equate it with an extraterrestrial device.

On January 9, 1981, the diary noted: "Venuto signor M. a vedere e chiamato gendarmeria" (translation: "Came Mr. M. for seeing. He called the gendarmerie"). On February 17, 1981, there was a quotation regarding the arrival of GEPAN, referred to as "Centro spaziale per il soucoupes volantes ovni" (a mix of Italian and French for "Space agency for the flying saucer UFO").

Analysis of Controversial Issues Regarding the Structure of Sighting Report This section addresses alleged contradictory remarks made by Renato N. regarding the sighting's dynamics, his behavior, and the object's features, as raised by Figuet (1995). The investigation supports the witness's account that he was building a concrete shelter for a water pump at the time of the sighting, aligning with reports from Gendarmerie, GEPAN, and Figuet. Discrepancies in other published accounts (e.g., making a brickwork, building a wall, repairing a water pump) are considered secondary or due to investigators' lack of care. The verb "riparare" in Italian, meaning both "to shelter" and "to repair," might explain some misunderstandings.

Renato N. reportedly side-glanced at the object descending, a detail consistent with the CEOSE investigation. While Julien's report omits this, Velasco and Figuet mention a whistling sound drawing the witness's attention. The witness described the sound as a "piccolo sifflettino" (little whistling), which he heard from his position inside a cabin when the object was open. He clarified that he heard it before seeing the object, and it was a slight whistling sound.

The object descended without any apparent trace. The witness's expression "flying disc" was again addressed, with Renato N. explaining his use of the term. He described the object's movement as a "going down" that was not necessarily a landing, but rather a descent. The parallel with "pieri tombati au sol" (stones falling on the ground) was used to describe its movement. The object was described as hovering at a certain height, and the process verbal from GEPAN noted a whistling sound.

Sketches of the object by the witness were analyzed. The drawings were split into two subsets based on the base/height ratio. Subset a) (Fiorino-Leone, Figuet, Velasco) showed ratios between 4 and 6, with the object appearing thin. Subset b) (CEOSE, LDLN) showed ratios closer to 2. The witness's numerical estimates for diameter and height were more consistent than the sketch ratios. The article questions whether this discrepancy hints at a hoax or is due to the "fog of time." Another peculiarity noted was the split of sketches into two outline types: i) rough drawings by Fiorino-Leone, Figuet, and Velasco, depicting a disc-shaped object with buckets; ii) skilled outlines by CEOSE and LDLN, showing more details and appendages. The authors suggest that the close agreement in subset b) might be due to "active collaboration" with ufologists, and that disagreements between sketches and estimates are unavoidable due to the subjective nature of perception and memory.

Analysis of Drawings An examination of witness drawings based on geometrical ratios yielded interesting results. Table 1 presents base/height ratios from sketches made for various investigators. The witness's estimates of diameter and height suggest a base/height ratio of 1.7-2.0. GEPAN obtained a ratio of 1.4-1.5. The data was split into two subsets: one with ratios between 4 and 6 (Fiorino-Leone, Figuet, Velasco), and another with ratios around 2 (CEOSE, LDLN). The latter subset aligns better with the witness's numerical estimates. The article ponders if this array of ratios suggests a hoax or is due to memory issues. The sketches themselves were also categorized by outline: rough drawings with few details versus skilled outlines with more details. The authors lean towards the idea that the "active collaboration" of ufologists might have influenced the sketches in subset b) to better match the witness's numerical estimates, rather than suggesting a hoax.

Knowledge of the UFO Problem This section discusses the witness's awareness of UFO terminology. Figuet noted that Renato N. knew the meaning of "extraterrestrial." The witness used "flying disc" and "soucoupes volantes ovni." The article cites a public opinion poll showing that most Italians are familiar with the term UFO. It is emphasized that Renato N. did not equate UFOs with extraterrestrial devices, maintaining a distance from such theories and stating, "I saw a thing falling down."

A Case For Witness Reliability Renato N. is presented as a careful observer aware of perception and memory limitations. His skepticism towards a detailed recollection reported by Figuet is highlighted. Regarding the Trans sighting, an excerpt from an interview shows Renato N.'s ironic and humorous temper. When asked about dust at the landing site, he responded ironically. The article suggests that this irony, often overlooked by investigators, is a key aspect of his psychology. His statements about writing a book of "the whole truth" are interpreted as a way to lead astray those who take themselves too seriously, rather than hinting at a hidden truth.

The Altered State of Consciousness Hypothesis Figuet (1995) conjectured that drugs like Cimetidina (Tagamet) might have induced an altered state of consciousness in the witness. However, the investigation found that Renato N. never used Cimetidina or Ranitidina. The drugs he used upon medical prescription following a heart attack were Nifedipina and anhydrous Teofillina. The article details the secondary effects of these drugs, concluding that they do not cause hallucinations or similar states.

Evaluation of Hypotheses The authors consider Renato N. a reliable witness, finding no reason to question his trustworthiness or frankness. His ironic temper is noted, but his close encounter is not dismissed as a product of imagination. Hypotheses involving military helicopters or remotely piloted vehicles (RPVs) are discussed, but deemed to require further unsubstantiated hypotheses like hallucination or bad faith. Sturrock's (1973) procedure for evaluating astrophysical hypotheses is mentioned, and applied to the Trans-en-Provence case. Hypotheses involving RPVs and balloons are found to be "bad hypotheses," with post probabilities lower than 10⁻⁶.

Appendix: The Bounias Analysis This section details a biochemical analysis of trace evidence from the Trans-en-Provence site. A linear fit of concentration versus distance from the epicenter was performed. The analysis found a statistically meaningful correlation between certain biochemical indicators (e.g., β Carotene, Chlorophyll A) and distance from the epicenter in samples collected 40 and 730 days after the incident. While a correlation between the trace and soil biochemical properties is established, the connection to the UFO phenomenon rests on witness claims.

References A comprehensive list of references is provided, citing various reports, articles, and books related to the Trans-en-Provence case and UFO research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance The recurring theme is the rigorous analysis of a specific UFO case, focusing on witness reliability, object characteristics, and the evaluation of various hypotheses. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical but open-minded investigation, aiming to move beyond simplistic explanations and toward a scientific understanding of anomalous phenomena. The document emphasizes the importance of detailed investigation, cross-referencing of sources, and the careful consideration of witness testimony, while also acknowledging the limitations of perception and memory. The conclusion that the Trans-en-Provence event should be regarded as a UFO phenomenon suggests a leaning towards accepting the case as genuinely anomalous, based on the evidence presented and analyzed.

This issue of the magazine features an article titled "Making Ball Lightning in the Laboratory - a New Breakthrough" by Albert Budden, dated Spring 2001. The article delves into the long-standing mystery of ball lightning and presents a significant recent development in its laboratory reproduction.

Introduction to Ball Lightning

The phenomenon of ball lightning has historically been a source of fascination and mystery for scientists due to its transient and elusive nature. While often appearing as a grapefruit-sized globe of light during thunderstorms, historical records also describe much larger fireballs capable of causing significant destruction. These phenomena were often referred to as 'thunderbolts'. The article cites two historical accounts from the 19th century:

• July 11, 1809, France: A thunderbolt entered a church, exploding with great force, wounding eighty-two people and killing nine outright, as well as several dogs.
• August 24, 1895: Several people witnessed a whitish globe descend during a rainstorm. It broke into two smaller globes, one of which entered a chimney and exploded, causing damage, while the other passed harmlessly through a room and perforated a brick with a clean, round hole.

Despite numerous theoretical models proposed over 156 years, attempts to reproduce ball lightning in a laboratory have been minimal and largely unsuccessful. This has led to a reliance on armchair theorizing based on anecdotal evidence.

The Corum Breakthrough

The article highlights a recent and significant achievement by two electrical engineers, Kenneth and James Corum, from Ohio, USA, who have successfully produced electric fireballs in various colors on demand. Astonishingly, the instructions for this feat were publicly available for over a century, hidden within the notebooks of physicist Nikola Tesla. The Corums' breakthrough came from their unique reinterpretation of Tesla's 1899 Colorado Springs Notes. They discovered that by using a different circuit configuration than previously understood, they could replicate Tesla's results.

This discovery is presented as a major step forward, as it allows ball lightning to be studied experimentally in a controlled environment. The Corums also revealed that the process is relatively simple and the necessary apparatus, primarily a Tesla coil, is readily available in amateur workshops and college science departments.

Making Your Ball Lightning...

While producing ball lightning might be beyond the scope of the average person, students and amateur physicists with specialized knowledge of Nikola Tesla's inventions can potentially replicate the required hardware using standard electrical workshop resources. The Tesla coil, a device often built by electrical hobbyists, is a common piece of equipment in physics departments and universities.

The Tesla Coil - The Basics

The Tesla coil consists of two copper wire coils wound around cylinders: a wider, squat 'primary' coil and a taller, narrower 'secondary' coil. The top of the secondary coil features a brass or copper ball, which acts as the terminal from which high-frequency electrical streamers are emitted when the device is active. Tesla coils were designed to produce high-voltage discharges of microwaves, and it is within these streamers that electric fireballs appear and can persist even after the power is switched off. The circuitry includes a spark gap and a capacitor to rapidly pump up power output to very high levels (peak power of 100kW in ten microseconds is typical). A common demonstration involves a vacuum tube or fluorescent strip light glowing unaided when held near the terminal, due to the high levels of free electricity discharged into the air.

Why Now?

The article questions why, given the availability of Tesla coils since 1897, this reproduction of ball lightning has only recently been achieved. It notes that Tesla himself observed fireballs during his experiments, regarding them as an intriguing but unwanted side-effect. The Corums' insight was that despite extensive study by physicists, Tesla's published notes had been misunderstood. Their realization, made during a trip to Colorado Springs, was that they were not using the correct circuit configuration shown by Tesla.

Upon returning to their lab, they rearranged their apparatus and observed "multitudes of fireballs with diameters ranging up to several centimetres."

Ball Lightning Characteristics and Production

The fireballs produced had lifetimes typically ranging from one and a half to several seconds, exhibiting a wide range of colors similar to pyrotechnics. Some fireballs faded harmlessly, while others produced loud reports. Pulsating fireballs were observed, shrinking and growing when struck by RF streamers. One notable instance saw a fireball grow from a 6mm sphere to a 5cm diameter fiery-red globule within one second. Streamers appeared to eject bright fluid matter, contributing to the fireball's size.

Some fireballs had a doughnut appearance, others were deep red, bright white, green, yellow, blue-white, and purple. Some spun with dark patches, while others appeared transparent with electrical discharges. Several were observed to change color and eventually explode. Recording these phenomena was challenging, with video proving superior for estimating durations. Archive photographs of Tesla's experiments showed fireballs several inches in diameter, produced with significantly higher power and a much larger primary coil than the Corums used.

The Corums' setup involved two simultaneously operating Tesla coils, imposing an electromagnetic wave of extremely high frequency from one onto another at a lower frequency. This acts as a trigger, discharging total energy in an infinitesimally small interval at a tremendous rate, releasing into the air with "inconceivable violence." This electrical violence mimics natural lightning strikes, vaporizing carbon particles to form a bubble around super-heated air, creating the electro-thermally produced charged bubble that constitutes ball lightning.

The Interrupted Explosion

The process is visualized as an interrupted explosion. Expelled particles are held in a frozen state, forming a container-bubble where the explosion continues as unstable electro-chemical discharges. After floating for a distance, the fireball's internal energies reach critical instability, leading to either a harmless burn-out or a destructive force, depending on the stage of energy release.

References

The article includes a list of references, comprising books by Albert Budden such as "Allergies and Aliens," "Psychic Close Encounters," and "Electric UFOs," as well as several papers and newsletters related to ball lightning experiments and Nikola Tesla, including works by K.L. & J.F. Corum.

Forum: The 'OZ Factor'

In a separate section titled "Forum," Albert Budden addresses Jenny Randles regarding the "OZ factor" effect, which Randles describes as unidentified and mysterious. Budden asserts that this perceptual phenomenon, also known as the 'bell jar effect,' was identified years ago in his books "Allergies and Aliens" (1994) and "Psychic Close Encounters" (1999). He explains it as a neurological effect, specifically a focal seizure in the brain, caused by the stimulation of the reticular portion of the mid and fore brain in combination with temporal lobe activation. Budden expresses surprise that Randles, who reviewed his books, continues to describe the 'OZ factor' as unknown, suggesting it demystifies the phenomenon she holds dear. He argues that for ufology to progress, such identifications should be recognized and not ignored, and offers to present further evidence for his neurological conclusions.

Submission Guidelines for Potential Contributors

This section outlines the guidelines for submitting papers to the "European Journal of UFO and Abduction Studies." It details the journal's objective to bring the European UFO community closer and its openness to a broad spectrum of issues related to UFO and Abduction phenomena, including academic, spiritual, and skeptical viewpoints. Various types of articles are sought, including theoretical issues, historical accounts, empirical studies, methodological investigations, and cultural analyses. Commentaries on published articles and case studies are also welcome. The section also includes a "Research Noticeboard" for collaboration and calls for research, and a "Reviews" section for books and videos.

Ethical Considerations

Strict ethical guidelines are mandated for articles involving human participants, requiring adherence to standards set by the British Psychological Society or the American Psychological Association. Specific guidelines for investigating abduction experiences must also be met. Research deemed ethically dubious will not be published. Consent must be obtained if individuals' names are to be mentioned, though pseudonyms are permissible if clearly indicated.

Submission of Papers

Instructions are provided for submitting papers via postal mail (in triplicate on A4 paper with a front sheet) or electronically (two emails required). All submissions undergo a blind peer review by three members of the editorial board. A full reference section is required, with a preferred citation style provided for articles, books, and chapters.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of anomalous phenomena, particularly ball lightning and UFOs. There is a strong emphasis on empirical research, reinterpreting historical data, and applying scientific principles to understand these mysteries. The journal appears to advocate for a rigorous, evidence-based approach, encouraging the identification and classification of phenomena rather than leaving them as unexplained unknowns. The editorial stance seems to favor demystifying phenomena through scientific and neurological explanations, even if it challenges existing beliefs within the ufology community.