Gemini - Vol 1 No 3 - 1972

Magazine Overview

GEMINI, 'The twin UFO journal', Vol 1 No 3, published July-September 1972, is a 17-page magazine dedicated to UFO phenomena. It incorporates COS-MOS, SIRIUS, and UFO Chronicle. The cover features a prominent photograph of a jet aircraft and the headline "'Classic' UFO photo identified?", along with a list of other featured articles.

Contents

The issue includes a wide range of articles and reports:

• UFO BUZZES POWERLINES NEAR NORWICH by Barry P Marsh: An investigation into a sighting by schoolboys on May 24, 1972, involving an object described as rugger-ball shaped with coloured lights, hovering, dipping, and performing U-turns near powerlines.
• BLUE JOHN by Norman Oliver: A detailed account of a contactee experience from 1963 involving a coded message and an encounter with a spaceman at the Blue John Cavern.
• FLAP 71: BANBURY ROUND-UP by C David Oakley-Hill: Reports from the October 1971 flap period in Banbury, including two specific sightings on October 26th. One involved a reddish-orange object spinning anti-clockwise and leaving a patchy trail, while another described a cigar-shaped object that burst into flames and exhibited unusual flight patterns.
• UFO 'INSPECTS' AIRFIELD by Richard Farrow: A report on UFO sightings over an airfield.
• NEW YEAR'S DAY FLAP OVER SCANDINAVIA by Richard Farrow: Details of a UFO flap experienced in Scandinavia.
• LOST CIVILISATIONS 2 by W Raymond Drake: A continuation of an article on lost civilizations.
• HARD FACT by C David Oakley-Hill: An article presenting factual information.
• A 'CLASSIC' UFO PHOTO IDENTIFIED? by Ronald G Markwick: The lead article, focusing on the identification of a well-known UFO photograph.
• I, OSIRIS (Book review) by Colin Bord: A review of a book.
• THEMES OF CONTACT: SEX & SAUCERS 2 by Norman Oliver: A continuation of an article exploring the relationship between contact experiences and sexuality.
• DISCUSSIONS WITH PHILEMON by Mollie Thompson: An article featuring discussions.
• MYSTERIES FROM FORGOTTEN WORLDS (Book review) by C David Oakley-Hill: A review of a book.
• CROSSWORD and MEETINGS are also included.

GEMINI ON TV

The magazine reports on its own efforts to promote ufology through appearances on Greenwich CableVision on August 14th, screened September 3rd. Editors Mark Stenhoff and David Oakley-Hill were interviewed, discussing sightings and the Lakenheath report. A witness, Mrs Lee, also shared her experience. GEMINI also had stands at local shows, receiving enquiries and reports.

Apology

An apology is issued regarding the delayed printing of contact reports mentioned in a previous article, "Sex and Saucers". Readers interested in obtaining copies are asked to inform the magazine. Excerpts from the Scoriton tapes are also being prepared.

Congratulations

Congratulations are extended to Margaret Collins of GEMINI's "Lick, stick and despatch" department on her engagement.

Investigation Reports - Taverham Hall

Report 1: The event by Barry Marsh details the sighting by schoolboys, noting their ages (8 years) and the object's description: rugger-ball shaped, with coloured lights in three rows, light grey/silver on top, coppery bottom, buzzing sound, spiky protuberance, rotating, dipping, and hovering. The object was observed for approximately 15 minutes.

Report 2: The witnesses by Barry Marsh discusses the investigation, acknowledging the boys' young age and potential influence from the TV series 'UFO', but concluding that their consistent descriptions suggest they saw something unusual. The report details interviews with individual boys, noting their personalities and accounts. A psychological note suggests children of eight tend to equate unknown objects with familiar images.

Report 3: Teacher's comments by Lorna Dunn, the boys' teacher, states that the written accounts convinced her the children saw something, given the consistency of descriptions and their limited imagination at that age. She is described as a confirmed sceptic.

Report 4: Taverham Hall Farm interviews residents who noticed nothing unusual. The investigation found no evidence of burning or damage to treetops, leading to conclusions that the boys might have misidentified lorry reflectors or car lights, or that the object did not land in the wood. The possibility of the object being over the transformer area was also considered.

Report 5: Further investigations of site by Johnson and Marsh suggests the object was cruising along power lines and concentrating on the transformer. The final verdict is that an unusual, sizeable object was seen, estimated to be lower than 50 feet, but nothing had landed in the wood. Norwich Electricity Board confirmed no power reduction was noted.

Further reports from the area in May

Several other reports from May are included:

• May 27th: Four round, white objects seen travelling abreast near Lowestoft.
• May 27th (10pm): A large, white light observed moving "to and fro" at an elevation of about 30° near Halesworth, suspected to be Venus.
• May 25th (Zam): A large, orange "dish" reported above a house in Horning, with a humming noise.
• May 26th (9pm): A white object seen between clouds, discounted as Venus.
• May 29th: The Borderline Science Group investigated a sighting at Gorleston.

BLUE JOHN

This extensive article by Norman Oliver details a contactee case from 1963 involving a witness named Joan. Joan received a coded message via Morse code about an arrival at 4:30, which she later witnessed as a saucer landing near the Blue John Cavern. A spaceman emerged, and Joan had subsequent meetings with him and others. The article discusses the credibility of the case, mentioning Waveney Girvan, former editor of FLYING SAUCER REVIEW, and Charles Bowen, his successor. The witness's account includes details of the spaceman's origin and purpose, and a possible connection to a planned visit to Waveney Girvan.

Comments on the Blue John Cavern incident include its location in Derbyshire, the lack of traffic during the alleged landing, and the possibility of hypnosis or a hoax. The article also references Arthur C. Clarke's views on UFO evidence and humorously speculates about Patrick Moore speaking 'Pidgin Venusian'.

FLAP 71 Banbury Round-up

This section by C David Oakley-Hill compiles reports from the August-October 1971 flap period, focusing on Banbury. Two specific reports from October 26th are detailed:

• 74. Oct 26 1200hrs Cherwell Heights, Banbury: Mr William Sparkes and his daughter reported a reddish-orange, spinning object with a vapour trail that appeared and disappeared. They observed it for 2-3 minutes.
• 75. Oct 26 1200hrs Banbury market-place: Frank Miles and two colleagues witnessed a cigar-shaped, aluminium-coloured object that burst into flames, left a smoke trail, and then nosedived. Through binoculars, it appeared rocket-shaped with no wings. The object was described as noiseless.

Further reports from October 27th include:

• 43. Oct 27 1800hrs Charlton: Elaine Holloway and her neighbours reported seeing objects over a cricket field. Elaine Holloway is described as a helpful and intelligent witness.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently presents detailed investigative reports, witness testimonies, and analyses of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, seeking to document and understand UFO events, while also acknowledging the need for evidence and considering various explanations, including potential hoaxes or misidentifications. The inclusion of book reviews, letters, and discussions on related topics like lost civilizations suggests a broad interest in unexplained phenomena. The magazine also actively promotes ufology through media appearances and public engagement.

Title: GEMINI
Issue: 19
Volume: 19
Date: July-Aug 1972
Publisher: FSR
Country: UK
Original Language: English
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Content Summary

This issue of GEMINI magazine, issue number 19, published by FSR and dated July-August 1972, delves into a series of UFO (Unidentified Flying Object) and UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) sightings, primarily focusing on reports from the Banbury area of the UK and Scandinavia during late 1971 and early 1972.

Banbury Sightings (Reports 76-79)

The magazine details several accounts from the Banbury region. Report 76, from October 27, 1800-1830hrs, describes four boys and a girl witnessing a bright, gold, cigar-shaped object in the sky near Hook Norton. Michael Austin, one of the witnesses, described it as wider than the sun and having more colour than a street light.

Report 77, from November 1971, features Mrs Kathleen Hunt, who saw a pale orange, cigar-shaped object moving noiselessly west to east, appearing about twice the length of an aircraft. She described its edges as diffuse but the shape definite.

Report 78, from October 26, 1971, at 1950hrs near Shutford, involves Mr and Mrs Alfred Burton and customer Kevin Heath observing a row of "windowframe" lights over a dark, solid, cigar-shaped object approximately 50 yards long. A bright orange-red light flashed rapidly on its left side.

Report 79, dated October 18, 19, or 20, 1971, at 0145-0215hrs near Middleton Cheney, details Cliff Christie's experience. He reported a powerful light bathing the area, followed by a pulsating whine and a light source moving east of due north. The object then moved away rapidly.

Charlton and Aynho Sightings (Report 32)

Report 32 covers two related sightings on October 19, 1971, between 2250 and 2330hrs, in Charlton and Aynho, Northants. Mrs Curtis reported intense blue-white flashes, followed by lights moving parallel to the ground. Lois Tilbury, Gregory Turczak, and Lothor Drosd saw a brilliant white flash and subsequent flashes from three definite spots, described as having a ball-like centre.

Scandinavian Sightings (New Year's Day Flap 1972)

The issue extensively covers the "New Year's Day Flap" of 1972, with hundreds of reports from southern Norway and Sweden. The main sighting involved a formation of six or seven objects travelling northwest to southeast at high speed, described as bright white with glowing red-brown tails. These were photographed and analyzed, with the conclusion that they were likely a bolide or re-entry of space debris, possibly the Russian rocket COSMOS 453.

Several unidentified sightings from Norway are detailed:

• 0010-0020: Bright flaming spheres observed near Akershus central hospital.
• 0040-0050: A flashing orange light observed near South Haugesund.
• 0230-0245: A formation of 6 or 7 illuminated objects with glowing tails seen near Askim.
• Around 0400: Two large oval objects hovering over each other near Sarpsborg, emitting white light and described as similar to airships.
• Around 0400: Seven bright objects flying at high altitude near Bergen.
• 0410-0413: Three objects approaching over Sorfjorden.
• 0413-0416: A large cigar-shaped object with pulsating blue colour and red "pipes" observed near Kongsvinger.
• 0415: A formation of 10-12 objects with reddish sparks trailing from the leading ones, observed near Strand, Florvag.
• 2203-2215: Two red lights moving slowly, described as unusual, observed near Haugesund.

Analysis and Commentary

Alan Watts, BSc, FRMetS, provides commentary on Report 32, dismissing atmospheric lightning as an explanation due to the regularity and localized nature of the flashes. He suggests the possibility of clear-air discharges but finds it unlikely. He also speculates on experimental rocket-type craft as a potential culprit for some Banbury sightings.

The issue also includes a note on the apparent ability of UFOs to manipulate electromagnetic properties of space, suggesting they might create charges and spark over, producing lightning-like flashes.

Other Reports

• Norway, Jan 21, 1972: A large oval object emitting blue-white light ejected three smaller objects near Leknes airfield. The experience affected witnesses, causing fear and a headache.
• FSR 18/4, July-Aug 1972: A full report on Mrs A's experiences with unusual light phenomena, fridge and cooker behaving abnormally, and her central heating system acting erratically.
• FSR 6/2 (Mar-Apl 1960): A reprinted report from the Oxford Times detailing a "flashing light with a vapour trail" seen over Banbury in 1959.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed documentation of UFO/UAP sightings, the presentation of witness testimony, and the attempt to analyze these phenomena through scientific and logical reasoning. The magazine appears to maintain an open but critical stance, presenting various reports and then offering expert analysis to explore possible explanations, ranging from natural phenomena and conventional aircraft to more speculative theories involving experimental technology or unknown aerial craft. The editorial stance seems to be one of serious investigation into unexplained aerial phenomena, encouraging detailed reporting and analysis.

This issue of "LOST CIVILISATIONS" (Issue 2), authored by W Raymond Drake, delves into a variety of intriguing topics related to ancient history, extraterrestrial theories, and unexplained phenomena. The magazine explores controversial ideas about the origins of human civilization, ancient technologies, and the nature of consciousness.

Ancient Civilizations and Extraterrestrial Influence

The issue begins by presenting the controversial theory of Italian writer Renato Vesco, who suggests that ancient kings with blue blood were actually extraterrestrials from a dying planet with an oxygen-deficient atmosphere. This theory is linked to the universal association of blue blood with royalty. The article posits that fragments of knowledge from old civilizations were preserved by initiates, and that ancient practices like astrology and alchemy were based on universal sciences measuring stellar radiations and their influence on the human mind.

The text highlights the advanced knowledge of ancient cultures, citing the precise astronomical observations of Mayan astronomers, which rivaled those of the Magi of Babylon. Stonehenge is described as an observatory of immense complexity, built four thousand years ago for studying eclipses. The Druids, Etruscans, and other ancient peoples are mentioned as having scanned the skies with vigilance, raising the question of whether they feared invaders from space or the return of sky gods.

Intriguing links between East and West are noted, with the siting of the Great Pyramid in the exact center of the world's land-mass implying an aerial survey. Similarities between the Incas and Ancient Egyptians, such as shared religion, theocracy, metallurgical and agricultural techniques, and mummification practices, are also discussed.

The article touches upon the practice of a cult of the dead by Neanderthal Man, suggesting evidence of a sublime theology. It also references the alleged cold light and a curse laid by Egyptian Priests, possibly a radio-active poison.

Ancient Technologies and Records

The issue explores the idea that ancient civilizations possessed advanced technologies, including flying machines. It mentions the Sanskrit text "Aeronautics, A Manuscript from the Prehistoric Past" by Maharshi Bharaduraja of Mysore, which describes Vimanas flying to planets with techniques like radar and aerial photography. The ancient Nahuatl name for Teotihuacan, "The place where men flew like God," is also cited.

Frescoes in the Jugoslav monastery of Visoki Decani are described as depicting astronauts flying craft propelled by rockets, with the Phoenix being a possible symbol of a missile-launch. A slab of a tomb at Palenque, Mexico, is noted for its drawing of a young man piloting a spaceship, and a clay vase from San Salvador is decorated with men flying in a strange machine emitting smoke and flames. A golden trinket from the State Bank at Bogota is interpreted by experts as depicting an aerial craft with features resembling the Concorde.

UFO Phenomena and Explanations

The magazine discusses the discovery of the Van Allen Belts and suggests that UFOs traversing this sector could account for visitations from 'Gods' recorded by ancient peoples. It references prophecies of Nostradamus regarding future cataclysms and the potential sinking of America and the rise of Atlantis.

C David Oakley-Hill contributes an article titled "HARD FACT," which critically examines "flying saucer" publications. He expresses skepticism about many "classic" cases and signs interpreted as UFOs, suggesting that rational explanations are often overlooked. He notes that many reports are from cuttings and largely uninvestigated, making them near-valueless. Oakley-Hill discusses the "Lifjell film" and the Piri-Reis map, suggesting potential hoaxes or exaggerations. He also mentions a new theory concerning the NICAP bomber photo.

Oakley-Hill also addresses "Vortices," discussing aircraft wing vortices that can create whirlwinds visible to ground observers. He notes that these vortices, under favorable conditions, can produce ground disturbance similar to that caused by tornadoes. He also expresses suspicion that the government might be behind some strange aerial phenomena, possibly including the filmed Banbury object.

Ronald G Markwick, in "A 'classic' UFO photo identified?", offers explanations for seemingly anomalous photos. He suggests that illusions, optical phenomena, and atmospheric conditions can create misinterpretations. He explains how a car's headlights can appear different through a camera lens, how radar can be affected by cloud formations, and how rainbows form. He proposes that some UFO sightings might be related to solar flares, magnetic storms, or atmospheric refraction, and that the NICAP-9 photo of a B-57 bomber with a UFO might be a distorted 'replica' of the bomber itself due to heat fumes and warm air layers.

Psychic Phenomena and Contact

The issue features a review of the book "I, OSIRIS" by Mary Long, which details telepathic communications from entities named Osiris and Isis. The book recounts the story of Pan, a civilization on Earth 33,000 years ago, and the subsequent infiltration of Earth by 'pirates' from space. The review highlights the book's exploration of psychic abilities, reincarnation, and the potential for extraterrestrial contact.

Another section, "Themes of Contact: SEX & SAUCERS - 2" by Norman Oliver, explores possible associations between sexuality and UFO sightings. Oliver questions whether sexually repressed feelings or adolescent development might play a role in people seeing UFOs or experiencing psychic phenomena. He suggests that psychic ability might be linked to sexuality and that individuals with sexual anomalies might find it easier to contact aliens.

"Discussions with PHILEMON" presents a Q&A format with an entity named Philemon, who communicates telepathically with Mollie Thompson. These discussions explore the nature of reality, perception, and the difference between reasoning and intuitive responses. Philemon suggests that humans often rely on stark opposites and that intuitive responses are a reliable compass when tempered with respect for others' feelings. The conversation touches upon the composition and essence of UFOs, with Philemon hinting that their essence might be a feeling nature, akin to Love.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the idea that ancient civilizations possessed advanced knowledge and technology, potentially influenced by extraterrestrial visitors. There is a consistent exploration of unexplained phenomena, including UFO sightings, ancient mysteries, and psychic experiences. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various theories and explanations, from the speculative to the more grounded, encouraging readers to consider alternative perspectives on history and reality. The issue emphasizes the breakdown of barriers between the physical world and other realms, suggesting a growing awareness of phenomena beyond conventional understanding.

This issue of GEMINI, Volume 3, Issue 4, dated November 1972, is published by R & E Publications from England. The cover prominently features the title "MYSTERIES FROM FORGOTTEN WORLDS" by Charles Berlitz, suggesting a focus on ancient mysteries and potentially extraterrestrial influences.

Contents

Review: MYSTERIES FROM FORGOTTEN WORLDS

The review, written by C David Oakley-Hill, discusses Charles Berlitz's book which delves into "prehistoric" civilizations and ancient technologies. The book is noted for its exploration of topics such as instructions for Hindu flying chariots, the Piri-Reis map, aerial markings at Nazca, a miniature planetarium from the Aegean seabed, ancient scripts from Easter Island and the Indus Valley, and evidence supporting the existence of Atlantis. The review highlights Berlitz's argument that advanced cultures existed in prehistory with worldwide communication, and that a global catastrophe around 12000 BC, possibly caused by an advanced civilization, led to events like the Great Flood. The book is described as breaking new ground and should not be overlooked by scientists.

Discussions with Philemon

A dialogue, presented in a question-and-answer format, features 'P' (Philemon) and 'S'. The conversation touches upon the nature of consciousness, the evolution of the mind, and the concept of time and space. Philemon suggests that 'S' has an ancient essence and that focusing too much on names and shapes limits one's perspective. The concluding parts of these discussions are promised for GEMINI 4.

Project EL INTERNATIONAL

This section is an advertisement for Project EL INTERNATIONAL, an organization that explores enigmas related to UFOs, ghosts, and poltergeists. They invite interested individuals to send for literature and membership forms, and offer free associate membership to magazine editors. Contact details are provided for the Project Secretary in Worcester, England.

BUFORA Meetings

• Announcements are made for upcoming meetings organized by BUFORA (British UFO Research Association) at Kensington Central Library, London. These include:
• Saturday, November 4th, 1972: "Sounds from the Sky" lecture by Dr. G. G. Doel, discussing sonic phenomena attributed to UFOs.
• Saturday, December 2nd, 1972: "The Mystery Machine" lecture by Alan Watts, exploring possible explanations for the impossible.
• Saturday, January 6th, 1973: "UFOs, Science and Scientists" lecture by Mark Stenhoff, examining scientific opinions on UFOs.

UFO Flap in South Africa

A brief report details a significant UFO flap in South Africa during June-July 1972. The incident began when a landowner, Benny Smit, shot at a small UFO seen on his farmland. Further details are promised for the next issue.

Crossword Puzzle

The issue includes a crossword puzzle (Number 3) with solutions to Crossword 2 provided. Clues for both Across and Down sections are listed.

R & E Publications Price List

A price list for various publications and items offered by R & E Publications is included. These items include UFO flight patterns, prediction maps, TV notes on UFO detection, optical circuits, and propulsion theories. A "Master Map" is mentioned, which reportedly predicted a center of UFOs at Banbury before the 1971 flap.

1952 UFO FLAP

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

Stop Press: Alec Birch Hoax

A short news item reports that Alec Birch, who took a UFO photograph in 1962, has admitted it was a hoax. The "saucers" were painted on glass and photographed with a "Brownie" camera. The GEMINI team is investigating further.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of GEMINI leans heavily into the realm of unexplained phenomena, ancient mysteries, and UFOlogy. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various theories and reports without necessarily endorsing them, but encouraging further investigation. The inclusion of Charles Berlitz's work, discussions on prehistoric civilizations, and UFO sightings suggests a focus on challenging conventional historical and scientific narratives. The magazine also serves as a platform for promoting related publications and research groups like BUFORA and Project EL INTERNATIONAL, indicating a commitment to fostering a community interested in these subjects.