Gemini - Vol 1 No 2 - 1972

Magazine Overview

GEMINI, 'The twin UFO journal', Vol 1 No 2, published Apr-Jun 1972, is a magazine dedicated to exploring UFO phenomena. It features a mix of articles, reviews, and detailed reports of sightings.

Contents

The issue opens with a review of a BBC 2 documentary titled 'Horizon', shown on 7 February 1972, which discussed Fortean phenomena and the challenges of applying the scientific method to unexplained, short-lived events. The review highlights the programme's question: 'NEED WE CHANGE SCIENCE?' and mentions that phenomena like ball-lightning have become respectable studies due to trained observers.

The magazine then delves into 'FLAP 71', a compilation of UFO activity reports from August to October 1971. This section details numerous sightings across the UK, including:

• Report 46 (Aug 25): A bright disc seen over a river in Stanford-upon-Soar, Loughborough.
• Report 47 (Aug 27): An oblong, silver-metallic object with a black rim seen near West Malling, Kent.
• Report 48 (Sep 1): An orange glowing object and an L-shaped object seen in Dudley, Worcestershire.
• Report 49 (Sep 3): A round, cloud-like formation seen near Crowland, Peterborough.
• Report 50 (Sep 17?): A dark cigar-shaped object with yellow lights hovering over Lee Green, Eltham.
• Report 51 (Sep 25): A large object with flashing lights seen in Langdon Hills, Southend.
• Report 52 (Sep 30): A massive silver object described as two saucers joined together, seen near Newcastle.
• Report 53 (Oct 3): An object described as 'floating down like a parachute' with large lights seen in Belmont, Surrey.
• Report 54 (Oct 5): A whirling 'oval round' object seen in Upminster, Essex.

Other reports from October 1971 include sightings in Oxford, Salop, Liverpool, Wolverhampton, Scunthorpe, Colchester, Ketleybank, and various locations in Worcestershire and Lancashire. These reports describe objects of various shapes and colours, exhibiting unusual behaviour and sometimes accompanied by lights or sounds.

Articles and Reviews

• "WHO BELIEVES IN UFOs?" by Mark Stenhoff reviews a 8-page article from "Club" magazine, which discusses 'life in the universe' arguments and the extraterrestrial hypothesis. It mentions the Kenneth Arnold report and figures like Antoni Szachnowski and Charles Bowen. The review notes comments on photographic analysis and UFO propulsion, and critically examines the mention of John Searl's spacecraft plans.

• "THE CONNELLY CASE: A Second Opinion" by Ken Rogers revisits the case of Mrs Connelly, who reported a landed craft in 1940. Rogers notes similarities between her testimony and the Betty and Barney Hill abduction case, particularly concerning descriptions of a book and a map.

• "LOST CIVILISATIONS" by W Raymond Drake explores theories about extraterrestrial influence on ancient civilisations, referencing Soviet researchers like Professor Virgjinsky and Alexander Kazantsev, and archeological findings in China and Tibet.

• "THEMES OF CONTACT: SEX AND SAUCERS" by Norman Oliver is listed on the cover and in the contents but its specific content is not detailed in the provided pages.

• "UFOS OVER ZAMBIA" by Gregory Vlahakis is also listed but not detailed.

• "THE WINTER HILL CASE" details a contact experience of Reg Chapman, who reported telepathic communication with a being and later saw a horseshoe-shaped object hovering above ground level.

• "YO-YO UFO!" describes a steady yellow light observed crossing the sky in Amersham Road, London, which appeared to reverse direction without turning.

Editorial Stance and Notes

The magazine's editorial policy, as stated in the "PERCEPTION" section, is to serve as an open forum for news, views, and discussions on the UFO phenomenon, reflecting a wide range of thought-provoking arguments without necessarily endorsing the extraterrestrial hypothesis due to a lack of undeniable evidence. The editor, Graham Cowell, emphasizes that the magazine reflects various viewpoints.

Contributions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editorial staff and are included without bias. The magazine also includes notes on its contributors and references for its articles.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Recurring themes in this issue include the detailed reporting of UFO sightings ('FLAP 71'), the challenges of scientific investigation into anomalous phenomena, and speculative theories about extraterrestrial contact and ancient civilisations. The editorial stance, as presented by Graham Cowell, is one of open-minded inquiry, presenting diverse perspectives on the UFO phenomenon without definitive conclusions, emphasizing the need for evidence and a willingness to reconsider scientific criteria.

Title: GEMINI
Issue: 3
Volume: 2
Date: February 1972
Publisher: GEMINI
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English
ISSN: 0046-5027

This issue of GEMINI magazine, dated February 1972, delves into the complex and often controversial relationship between UFO phenomena and human sexuality, under the main theme "Themes of Contact SEX & SAUCERS" by Norman Oliver. The magazine also features reports on UFO sightings, book reviews, and a discussion with an extraterrestrial entity.

Article: "Themes of Contact SEX & SAUCERS" by Norman Oliver

Norman Oliver begins by questioning the perceived disconnect between sex and flying saucers, dismissing purely Freudian interpretations. He proposes several angles for exploration: abduction for procreation or interplanetary cross-breeding, medical examinations by aliens, sexual changes induced by extraterrestrials, legendary concepts of human origin (the "Fall"), and sexual activity as a contact factor. Oliver emphasizes that he is not claiming these accounts as gospel truth but as points meriting consideration for solving the UFO enigma.

Abductions

Oliver posits that if humans and aliens can interbreed, abductions might occur for two primary reasons: to improve the alien stock or to cross-breed with Earthlings to create a strain capable of permanent habitation on Earth, suggesting a potential alien "take-over." Alternatively, abductions could be for the aliens' caprice. He then examines specific cases:

• Antonio Villas Boas (AVB): The case of AVB, who lived on a farm in Minas Gerais, Brazil, is detailed. On October 15, 1957, AVB reported seeing a large oval craft land. He was taken aboard, undressed, sponged, and had blood samples taken. He was then left in a room and had intercourse with a blonde woman. After four and a half hours, he was returned to the field.
• Eugene Browne: In October 1967, Browne was walking home in Belfast when an object emitted a beam of light that caused him to black out. He awoke on a table in a windowless room, examined by four men and a girl who appeared friendly. They had a bluish aura. The tallest, dressed in a dark suit, stated, "At last, someone, you will do." Browne was then subjected to examination, and the girl, who had blond hair and blue eyes, wanted sexual relations, which he eventually agreed to. They informed him they wanted Earthmen's seed for experimentation worldwide.

Oliver notes that while thousands disappear annually, many are found. He acknowledges that "personal reasons," "loss of memory," and "undetected murders" likely account for most disappearances, but does not rule out alien abduction.

Medical Examinations

This section highlights the alleged sexual interference during alien encounters, referencing Betty and Barney Hill's case from John Fuller's book "THE INTERRUPTED JOURNEY." The Hills reported being taken aboard a saucer in the White Mountains in 1961 and examined. Barney developed warts in a geometric pattern, and Betty's experiences under hypnosis included a pregnancy test. Betty's description of a map shown to her bore a resemblance to the Great Square of Pegasus and CTA-102. The article also mentions Albert Lancashire's 1942 experience in Newbiggin-on-Sea, Northumberland, where he underwent a medical examination. These experiences are framed as potential "check-ups" on human body chemistry, possibly for artificial insemination or as part of a pattern of ownership, akin to humans owning farm animals.

The House at Yeovil

Ernest Bryant, who claimed contact with extraterrestrials, alleged that in 1953, a family of three was removed from a house in Yeovil for "procreation purposes," leaving a "Mary Celeste" situation. Bryant himself was later found to have been in a mental hospital. His wife and child had moved elsewhere. While Oliver expresses considerable doubt about Bryant's case, he acknowledges the mystery surrounding the disappearance.

Sexual Changes

Oliver presents the case of Hans Lauritzen, who claimed telepathic contact in a Danish wood via two dim yellow globes. After the contact, Lauritzen reported experiencing intense sexual vibrations and new feelings, describing a "spiritual rebirth" concept where orgasm could only be maintained with a passive attitude.

Legendary Concepts

This section draws parallels between UFO-related experiences and biblical narratives like the "Garden of Eden," the "Flood," and the "Virgin Birth." Oliver suggests these similarities might point to a single source of origin for humanity, possibly involving seeding from space or a deliberate genetic experiment. He speculates that the "Fall" might relate to sexual knowledge or misuse, or that the "Tree of Knowledge" could represent a "time-capsule" of wisdom from superior beings who introduced humans to Earth.

A Contact Factor?

This part discusses two "unusual contact reports" suggesting a link between sexual activity and extraterrestrial contact. Contact was allegedly facilitated by sexual activity charging the aura to a rhythm compatible with telepathic wavelengths. The author mentions "sex magic" as a method of channelling sexual force for positive ends, quoting Deric James. He notes that John Keel's article "Sex and the Single Saucerer" in ANOMALY also refers to AVB and Hans Lauritzen, comparing these encounters to the "incubus-succubus phenomenon." Keel suggests that hallucination and confabulation play significant roles in contactee reports, a conclusion Oliver does not fully share.

Book Review: GOD, MAN AND THE UFO'S by Ernest P Moyer

Lucius Farish reviews Ernest P Moyer's book, "GOD, MAN AND THE UFO'S." The review highlights Moyer's extensive comparison of statements from modern UFO contactees with the writings of Jonathan Swift, particularly from "Gulliver's Travels." Moyer suggests Swift may have been a contactee. The book also delves into the historical and religious implications of the UFO phenomenon. Farish praises the book's depth and recommends it to ufologists, noting its length (422 pages) and bargain price of $6.50.

UFOs OVER ZAMBIA by Gregory Vlahakis

Above the Cinema

On July 22, 1967, in Lusaka, Zambia, a witness saw a bright object above a drive-in cinema for three minutes. The object was described as an overturned soup plate with a cup on top, approximately 30 feet in diameter and 10 feet high, with a bright light on its undercarriage and yellowish port-holes. It made a sound like a swarm of bees. The object performed a balancing act before intensifying its light and vanishing with a whooshing sound.

The Zambezi Valley Incident

On July 6, 1971, about 30 miles from the border town of Chirundu, Zambia, a witness saw a bright light coming from a bend in the road. Upon stopping, the witness observed an object shaped like the planet Saturn with its rings, producing a high-pitched sound. The object brightened, an explosion occurred, and it vanished. The witness found himself about twenty yards in front of his car.

S.A. SAUCER 1963

Fred Pfieffer reported seeing an oval-shaped object with a dome on top above his farmhouse in Macclesfield, South Australia, on May 26, 1963. He described it as brownish-yellow on top, with five window-like features, and estimated its size to be about three double-decker buses. The object tilted, turned, and flew away. Pfieffer contacted the Weapons Research Establishment, who suggested it might have been a ball of electrical energy, but Pfieffer insisted it was a controlled, heavier-than-air object.

Discussions with Philemon

This section features a telepathic conversation between Mollie Thompson (the contactee) and an entity named Philemon. The discussions focus on UFOs and extraterrestrial visitors. Philemon suggests that contact is facilitated by sexual activity that aligns one's aura with extraterrestrial telepathic wavelengths. He also touches upon "sex magic" as a method of channelling sexual force. In Part 1, Philemon challenges Thompson's impatience and desire for immediate answers, urging her to find her own clarity. He implies that the reason for UFOs' presence is linked to humanity's problems. In Part 2, Philemon guides Thompson to understand that change must begin with oneself and that a chain reaction from person to person is the slow but necessary way to alter events. He emphasizes that the origin of Earth's problems lies with Man himself. When discussing the occupants of UFOs, Philemon describes them as "many and also one," a concept that initially confused Thompson but which she later began to grasp.

UFO at close quarters: Perthshire 1951

This is a previously unpublished report from Mrs A Y Lee, describing a UFO sighting in the summer of 1951 near Ballintuim Village, Perthshire, Scotland. While travelling in a tractor, Mrs Lee saw a bright golden-orange object appear extremely close and directly behind them. The object followed for about a minute before moving quickly overhead and disappearing behind a hill. Mrs Lee described the object as solid with sharp outlines, shaped like two shallow bowls joined together, with a rim. It was estimated to be 14ft in diameter and 10ft thick, at an altitude of about 60ft, and moving at an estimated 5mph. The weather was clear and warm.

Man Alive: A review of BBC 2's documentary on UFOs shown 2 February 1972

This section reviews a BBC 2 documentary titled "Man Alive" that explored UFO phenomena. The review notes that the program began with an MGM cartoon clip of a "flying saucer" landing, which was seen as an unfortunate start. The film then showed footage of a November 27 skywatch at Banbury, organized by IUFORA. Various individuals, including an "enthusiastic skywatcher" quoting von Däniken, Keith Palmer of the International UFO Society, and Bernard Byron (a contactee), shared their views. Palmer suggested UFOs came from different star systems and different types of beings, though he later dismissed the UFO business as "a load of trash." Anthony Davis from the Ministry of Defence was interviewed, and the suggestion was made that many Banbury UFO sightings might be due to aircraft from Upper Heyford. Dr Chris Evans proposed that muscae volitantes and after-image effects could explain some reports, a view not shared by all. The review also mentions a discussion panel including ufologists, scientists, and members of the public, and highlights the challenge to the authenticity of UFO photographs taken by Paul Beckenham.

Pictures of UFO queried

This short piece reports on a BBC 2 "Man Alive" program segment where the authenticity of UFO photographs taken by Paul Beckenham of Banbury was challenged. Keith Palmer of the International UFO Society admitted he was not certain of their genuineness and that his society had been hoaxed by claims of an eight-foot monster sighting. Desmond Wilcox, chairman of the panel, stated that these sightings "should be investigated more fully."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of GEMINI are the intersection of UFOs and sexuality, the nature of alien abduction, and the interpretation of historical and legendary accounts through the lens of extraterrestrial visitation. The magazine presents a range of perspectives, from detailed case studies of alleged encounters to reviews of books and media that explore these topics. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various claims and theories for the reader's consideration, while also maintaining a degree of critical reserve, particularly regarding the more sensational or unsubstantiated accounts. There is a clear interest in exploring the psychological, historical, and potentially spiritual dimensions of the UFO phenomenon, moving beyond simple sighting reports to consider deeper implications for humanity.

Title: GEMINI
Issue: 39
Date: February 17, 1972
Publisher: GEMINI
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

This issue of GEMINI magazine tackles the complex and often controversial subject of UFOs, featuring a mix of investigative reporting, personal accounts, and calls for research.

UFOs: Hubcaps in the Air

The lead story, "UFOs were hubcaps in the air," exposes a hoax involving fake UFO photographs. Two men from Banbury, Paul Beckham and David Wright, admitted to mocking up images of UFOs using hubcaps. These doctored photographs were then presented to local ufologist Keith Palmer, who subsequently quit his UFO society, stating his conclusion that UFOs do not exist and calling the subject "a load of trash." Palmer claimed he was unaware that the pictures he passed as genuine were the mocked-up ones, stating, "I have been hoaxed myself." Mr. Wright, however, called for the business to be brought into the open.

The article also touches upon a BBC program that was criticized for its biased editing, allegedly selecting "nut-cases" and "unknowing people" to discredit the UFO subject. Roger Stanway, chairman of BUFORA (British UFO Research Association), questioned whether the Ministry would release unexplained UFO reports for scientific investigation. Aviation historian Charles Gibbs-Smith also complained to David Attenborough of the BBC about the program's biased attitude, describing it as a "fiasco."

The Shaldon Mystery

"The Shaldon mystery" by Robert Chapman details an extraordinary event that occurred in the village of Shaldon, Devon, on September 26, 1971. The incident involved a violent flash of lightning and thunder, described by villagers as unusual and powerful, with some reporting it felt like "50 million volts." Leading meteorologist Alan Watts stated that the event was "somewhat distorted" in reports and that it was unlikely to be ordinary lightning, citing the lack of rain during a local drought, which is necessary for the extreme charge build-up associated with lightning.

Reports suggest an object fell into the river, causing water to spurt upwards. Two women described being trapped in a "tube of fire" or "brilliant light." The event also caused widespread damage to electrical instruments and telephones, and some residents experienced mysterious aches, partial paralysis, and difficulty with balance, requiring medical attention. While some attributed the effects to St. Elmo's Fire, the villagers remained unconvinced that it was ordinary lightning, with speculation about meteorites or extraterrestrial origins.

Books and Magazines for Sale

The magazine includes a section advertising other UFO-related publications, such as COS-MOS JOURNALS, COS-MOS/SIRIUS, SEQUEL TO SCORITON, and UFO CHRONICLES, available for purchase through GEMINI.

Meeting Dates

Upcoming events for UFO enthusiasts are listed, including:

• May 19: A talk by Ron Markwick on "UFOS past and present proof?" at Charlton House, London.
• June 3: BUFORA's "Brains Trust" panel of UFO experts at Kensington Central Library, London.
• June 24: NATIONAL SKYWATCH DAY, with details available from Lincoln Richford.

Project for the Study and Eventual Publication of Data Regarding 1952 UFO Phenomena

Bob Skinner is compiling a comprehensive report on the worldwide 1952 UFO flap. He is seeking unpublished 1952 UFO cases, cases from UFO society files, newspaper cuttings from 1952, and information on paraphysical phenomena from that year.

Flare Path

A brief, humorous anecdote titled "Flare path" recounts an incident in Great Yarmouth where a red flare seen over the harbour led to a lifeboat search, only to discover the cause was a man who had set off fireworks and fallen into a lake.

Les Extraterrestres

A mention of "Les Extraterrestres," an "excellent French lithographed quarterly," is included, with ordering information.

Crossword

The issue features a crossword puzzle, with the solution to Crossword 1 provided. The first correct solution received for the new crossword by July 31, 1972, wins a free year's subscription to GEMINI.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

GEMINI magazine appears to maintain a stance of open inquiry into UFO phenomena, while also critically examining claims and exposing hoaxes. The magazine encourages scientific investigation and the collection of data, as evidenced by the call for information on the 1952 UFO flap. There is a clear effort to distinguish between genuine reports and sensationalism or deliberate deception. The editorial stance seems to be one of seeking truth and fostering a more rigorous approach to the study of unexplained aerial phenomena, while also acknowledging the public's fascination with the subject.