Ground Saucer Watch Bulletin - 1977 12 - December

Magazine Overview

This issue of the GSW News Bulletin, dated December 1977, is published by Ground Saucer Watch, a "Civilian Aerial Phenomena Research Organization" based in Phoenix, Arizona. The cover prominently features the GSW logo and the headline "Ground Saucer Watch," with the issue date "DEC '77."

Table of Contents

The Table of Contents reveals a diverse range of articles, including an editorial, editor replies, discussions on photographic analysis controversies, organizational news, a calendar of events, a map of sightings, reports on specific UFO cases (Russian "Jellyfish" UFO, Travis Walton), and a piece on the scientific method applied to UFO reports. It also touches upon domestic spying activities by the CIA and requests for presidential proclamations.

Editorial and Editor Replies

The "EDITORIAL" section, written by Richard Gottlieb, acknowledges the departure of the previous editor, Lori Field, for medical school and thanks her for her work. Gottlieb announces that he will assume the editor position temporarily. The "EDITOR REPLIES" section addresses a letter from John F. Schuessler of MUFON, who criticized GSW's affiliation with Philip Klass's Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal, labeling them an "anti-everything group." GSW agrees that the anti-UFO approach is unscientific and emphasizes the importance of pure scientific research without prior assumptions. They state their cooperation with Klass's organization is for information exchange, not necessarily endorsement of their conclusions. GSW believes that by adhering to proper scientific methodology and obtaining credible evidence, the scientific community will eventually be convinced.

Directly Speaking: The Computer Photographic Analyses Controversy Continues

This article by William H. Spaulding, Director of GSW/WD, addresses the ongoing controversy surrounding the Rex Heflin photographic sequence. GSW's interpretation that the photos are a hoax has drawn personal attacks from some fellow researchers. Spaulding contrasts this with the reaction to the Condon Committee's rejection of the case, noting that GSW is facing more intense criticism. He argues that while professional arguments are welcome, the personal attacks and backstabbing are unwarranted. Spaulding suggests that the controversy is less about the Heflin photos themselves and more about the behavior of UFO researchers. He questions the standards of some researchers and points out a potential double standard in how cases are investigated and criticized. The article highlights the need for all data to be considered and acknowledges that there is room for improvement in investigative techniques. It also mentions the Travis Walton data as an example of how a case can eventually be resolved.

A critique of "conventional" photo analysts' opinions on the Heflin photographs is presented. Key points include:

1. Distance and Focus: The UO appears farther away in photos two and three than in photo one, which might explain the blurriness in photo one. However, photos two and three lack this blur, suggesting the UO in photo one might be too close for sharp focus.
2. Atmospheric Haze: The presence of haze affects distant objects, brightening them. The telephone poles in photo one illustrate this. However, the UO in all three photos shows sharp contrast, with no apparent effect from atmospheric scattering, suggesting it is at a negligible distance.
3. Centering: The UO image is consistently centered in the windshield/window frame, which is considered improbable for a witness shooting "from the hip" without visual adjustment.
4. Photograph Four: This photo was produced weeks after the others and shows significant differences, including higher graininess and uneven development, suggesting it was not taken with the same film or process as the first three.

These factors, along with potential duplication process issues, leave unanswered questions about the Heflin case.

War of Stars?

This article by Dria Weedon details a major disagreement between GSW and APRO (Aerial Phenomena Research Organization). The conflict began with an article in the APRO Bulletin by J.F. Herr, which criticized GSW's computer image processing techniques and personally attacked William Spaulding. Herr's article had been rejected by other UFO publications. APRO published it, reportedly as retaliation for GSW's opposing findings on the Travis Walton case. GSW responded with a technical report, and APRO offered GSW equal space to respond.

The article outlines the ensuing correspondence, highlighting that emotional responses are detrimental to professional debates. Richard Hall of MUFON refused to publish Herr's article due to its personal nature and offered to print scientific theories separately. GSW appreciated MUFON's recognition of Herr's unprofessionalism.

Jim Lorenzen of APRO initially offered GSW equal space but also warned Spaulding that his credibility was at stake. Todd Zechel of GSW criticized APRO for personal attacks and for focusing on "contact" cases of dubious authenticity rather than objective research. Zechel highlighted GSW's contributions, such as photographic analysis research and FOIA suits against the CIA.

Later, Lorenzen apologized for his abruptness and reiterated the offer to publish GSW's response. However, GSW expressed frustration with APRO's non-professional tactics and stated that further personal attacks would not be tolerated. GSW admitted computer processing is not infallible but defended their scientific method. Due to APRO's actions, GSW announced they would no longer cooperate with APRO until technical review replaced public arguments and personal chastisement. GSW affirmed their continued support for MUFON, CUFOS, and NICAP.

Organizational News

Zechel To Speak At Annual Lecture: GSW's annual lecture will be held on January 13, 1978, in Scottsdale, Arizona, with the subject "The Whole UFO Story - The One The Government Never Told You." The featured speaker is W. Todd Zechel, GSW's Research Director. William H. Spaulding will also speak on the history of government involvement in UFOs. Zechel, a former intelligence operative, is noted for his authority on UFO evidence suppression by the intelligence community, including the CIA.

GSW, Western Division, Hosts Guests: Within the past month, GSW hosted Dr. Bruce Maccabee, who discussed the Heflin photographic sequence, and Philip Klass, who visited GSW's Field Investigation Team and traveled to Heber, Arizona, the alleged site of the Travis Walton UFO sighting.

Calendar of Events

The annual lecture is scheduled for January 13th. Several radio and TV shows featuring William Spaulding discussing the lecture and Todd Zechel are announced. These include shows on KTAR Radio, KPHO T.V., KUPD Radio, and KOY Radio. The bulletin also advises readers to watch for articles in local newspapers.

A cartoon depicts a scene in the "UNITED STARS AIR FORCE UFO CENTER" with the caption: "I ASSURE YOU, SIR, IF ANY SUCH CREATURES REALLY EXISTED, WE WOULD BE THE FIRST TO KNOW ABOUT IT."

Map of Sightings

This section presents a map of the United States and Canada showing UFO sightings logged by GSW between July and November 1977. The data indicates:

• 194 called-in reports of UFOs.
• 26 reports received in hard copy.
• An unknown rate of 5.10% for data from July to November 1977.
• Arizona numbers exclude an advertisement airplane.

Additionally, 42 sightings were attributed to the planet Venus or other celestial phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the internal dynamics and disputes within the UFO research community, particularly the conflict between GSW and APRO. GSW strongly advocates for rigorous scientific methodology, emphasizing objectivity and the avoidance of personal attacks and assumptions. They position themselves as a serious research organization dedicated to uncovering the truth about UFOs, even if it means challenging established narratives or confronting other groups. The bulletin also highlights GSW's efforts to investigate government involvement and alleged cover-ups, as exemplified by their FOIA suit and the upcoming lecture by W. Todd Zechel. The overall editorial stance is one of promoting scientific integrity and a commitment to thorough, evidence-based research in the field of ufology.

This issue of "UFO SIGHTINGS" (Issue 10) from September 1977, published by GSW, focuses on recent UFO reports and the ongoing efforts to obtain government information on the subject. The publication features articles by David Bates, Dr. Bruce Maccabee, Richard Gottlieb, and W. Todd Zechel, covering a range of topics from specific sightings to the methodology of UFO investigation and legal battles for transparency.

UFO Sightings in Arizona

David Bates, Director of Field Operations, reports on UFO sightings in Arizona and the southwestern United States. While many sightings are attributed to planets like Jupiter or satellites, he details a significant multiple-witness case on the night of September 15, 1977, in northwest Phoenix. Four people, including a 56-year-old electronics engineer and private pilot, observed three objects moving from due south to north. The objects, estimated to be at 15,000 feet or less, initially appeared as bright lights but dimmed to a soft glow as they passed overhead. Witnesses described them as disc-shaped, large, and in perfect military echelon formation, emitting no sound or exhaust. They disappeared behind houses approximately 15 degrees above the horizon. The engineer, who had no prior interest in UFOs, believed the objects were intelligently controlled and possibly on a reconnaissance mission. Bates anticipates a potential increase in UFO activity, suggesting investigators prepare their manuals and tools.

Report on Russian "Jellyfish" UFO

A report, prepared by the Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal, details a "jellyfish UFO" sighted over Russia and Finland. This phenomenon was later identified as the launch contrails of the Cosmos-955 space satellite. The report notes that Tass News Agency reported the UFO, which created an embarrassing situation for Moscow as it revealed the existence of the secret Plesetsk Cosmo-drome. The Plesetsk facility, operational since 1966, is the busiest spaceport globally. The "jellyfish" appearance, described as a huge star flashing and sending shafts of light, was attributed to the vapor trails of the rocket's booster units. James E. Oberg, a space specialist, identified the event, noting that two satellites had been launched that morning. This sighting was similar to reports from a 1967 Meteor-2 launch.

The Scientific Method Applied to a UFO Report

Dr. Bruce Maccabee discusses the application of the scientific method to a typical UFO case. He uses an example of a qualified observer reporting a bright, multi-colored, erratically moving light in the morning sky, which could be Venus. Maccabee outlines a process of hypothesis formation and testing, starting with initial data (bright, morning sky) and inducing that the object might be Venus. Deductions are made and compared against observations. Discrepancies, such as the object being seen on the western horizon instead of the eastern sky (as expected for Venus in the morning), force a choice: either disregard the contradictory data or reject the hypothesis. He emphasizes that the credibility of the witness plays a crucial role. Maccabee notes that scientists may sometimes ignore contradictory data to support a preferred theory, a process he calls "innocent until proven guilty." He stresses that true scientific probability can only be assigned when dealing with a collection of similar cases with known identifications.

Truth or Consequences: The Fight for UFO Data

Richard Gottlieb, from the Research Committee, discusses the frustrations within UFOlogy due to governmental apathy and lack of assistance. He highlights the feeling among researchers that the government is withholding important UFO data, reinforced by the release of inadequate information to the National Archives. Gottlieb announces that GSW has filed a lawsuit in Federal Court against the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and its director, Stansfield Turner, on September 12, 1977. The suit alleges violations of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and seeks the release of UFO-related documentation. GSW believes that winning this suit could lead to government acknowledgment of UFO existence and potentially open Congressional hearings. Even if they lose, the CIA would have to prove UFOs are a national security matter, which would be a reversal of public policy. The article acknowledges the significant effort by Todd Zechel, GSW Research Director, in this endeavor.

Report on Domestic Spying Activities by the CIA

W. Todd Zechel, Director of Research for GSW, details the CIA's domestic spying activities. He explains that the Domestic Operations Division was created in 1963 for "clandestine operational activities" within the U.S. against foreign targets, but GSW has obtained documents indicating a domestic division existed as early as 1957. The CIA has operated through various cover companies and offices in American cities. The report outlines the structure of the Domestic Operations Division, including the Domestic Collection Division, Office of Security, and Counterintelligence Staff, noting its substantial budget and personnel. Zechel points out that while the CIA claims its only UFO involvement was the 1953 Robertson Panel, its domestic spying programs have targeted American citizens, raising questions about the agency's transparency and motives.

UFOLOGISTS REQUEST PROCLAMATION FROM PRESIDENT

This section presents a letter sent to President Jimmy Carter by a group of UFO researchers, including prominent figures like Dr. J. Allan Hynek and Dr. Jacques Vallee. The letter acknowledges the CIA and Air Force's disclaimers of involvement in UFO investigations and the declassification of Project Blue Book files. However, it questions why former military and civilian government employees are reluctant to discuss their UFO experiences. The researchers request a presidential statement that would allow these individuals to speak publicly without fear of retribution, enabling civilian research groups to gather comprehensive data on UFO sightings, photographs, films, and physical evidence. They emphasize that no government agency currently claims to be engaged in UFO research, making this task the responsibility of civilian groups. The letter expresses a strong belief that such a proclamation is vital for reaching the truth.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the persistent mystery of UFO phenomena, the challenges faced by researchers in obtaining credible information, and the critical role of scientific methodology and governmental transparency. The editorial stance clearly supports the pursuit of truth regarding UFOs, advocating for open access to government data and encouraging rigorous scientific investigation. There is a strong undercurrent of frustration with governmental secrecy and a proactive approach to challenging it through legal means, as exemplified by the GSW lawsuit. The publication champions the idea that understanding UFOs is a vital endeavor, potentially holding significant implications for humanity.

This issue of the publication, identified by page number (26) and featuring the headline "THE TROUBLE WITH TABLOIDS" by Rosemary Baum, addresses issues of journalistic integrity and accuracy in reporting on UFO phenomena. It includes a news brief from the National News Council concerning a legal complaint against the National Enquirer, a review of the film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," and a legal document related to Ground Saucer Watch, Inc.

Complaint Against the National Enquirer

The core of the issue is a condensation of a news brief from the National News Council, detailing a formal legal complaint filed by Elmer Kral, former MUFON State Director for Nebraska, against the National Enquirer on February 12, 1977. Kral alleged that several articles concerning UFOs were inaccurate and misrepresentative.

Specific Articles and Denials

Two specific articles are highlighted:

1. December 14, 1976: Titled "Walter Cronkite: Why I Believe in UFOs." Walter Cronkite, through his secretary Kathleen McClintock, denied being interviewed and stated he had no knowledge of the incidents until reading them in the Enquirer. He also denied discussing the matter with Senator Goldwater. Robin Leach, the article's author, initially stood by his quotes but later admitted to Cronkite that the interview he claimed took place in Cronkite's office had not occurred there.
2. December 28, 1976: Titled "I Believe There is Life in Space and I'll Urge Gov't, to Reveal What it Knows About UFOs," this article involved statements allegedly made by Senator Harrison Schmitt of New Mexico. Senator Schmitt, via his Press Secretary Anne Graham, denied being interviewed for the article. Graham stated that the quoted material appeared to be extracted from responses to questions posed during speeches about the Apollo-17 mission, not from a direct interview with the Enquirer.

Herbert Strentz's Complaint

Herbert Strentz, Dean of the School of Journalism at Drake University, also filed a complaint regarding a National Enquirer article on April 19, 1977, headlined "Air Force Study Buried and Hid Facts About UFOs." Strentz denied the accuracy of two quotes attributed to him and sought a retraction, which was not made.

Response from the National Enquirer

Mr. Iain Calder, president of the National Enquirer, responded to the National News Council. In a letter dated February 24, 1977, he stated the Enquirer felt no obligation to answer charges from self-appointed organizations but would respond to readers. He asserted the Cronkite article was from a reputable freelance reporter and published in good faith. In a second letter dated March 8, 1977, regarding the Schmitt article, Calder claimed Senator Schmitt was interviewed via telephone by reporter John Blosser for over 15 minutes, with the conversation tape-recorded with the Senator's permission.

Conclusion of the National News Council

The Council found considerable evidence to question the accuracy of the articles. They noted that Mr. Strentz and Mr. Cronkite were ignored, and that denials from Senator Schmitt, Mr. Strentz, and Mr. Cronkite were not adequately addressed. While the Enquirer asserted the Schmitt interview was taped, they declined to share its contents. The Council criticized the Enquirer for not having a letter to the editor or editorial page for reader response and concluded that the publication had followed a policy of irresponsibility, making the complaints warranted.

Suggested Reading and GSW Bulletin

Page 3 provides a "Suggested Reading" list for UFO researchers, recommending publications such as the MUFON's UFO JOURNAL, UFO PUISE-ANALYZER, INTERNATIONAL UFO REPORTER, READER'S DIGEST, and PLAYBOY MAGAZINE. It also mentions the "GSW NEWS BULLETIN," published by Ground Saucer Watch (GSW), detailing its features and subscription information.

GSW Movie Review: Close Encounters of the Third Kind

Tom Benson provides a review of the film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind." He describes the movie as bridging human and alien consciousness, using special effects and technological gadgetry. The review references Dr. J. Allen Hynek's classification system for UFO experiences and notes Hynek's appearance in the film. Benson details various close encounter scenarios depicted, including giant lensflare effects, etherical movement, and the concept of time-space continuum. He discusses the film's portrayal of alien communication, physiological and psychological effects on humans, and the appearance of the alien mothership. The review mentions that many encounters are based on documented cases from Dr. Hynek's files. Benson notes that Dr. Hynek agreed the movie tends to over-dramatize actual events. The review highlights the film's final scene at Devils Tower mountain, the appearance of the mothership, and the meeting between humans and aliens. It also touches upon President Carter's science advisor's comments on the public's reaction to UFO movies and NASA's standard response. The review concludes that the movie can strengthen the faith of believers and make the UFO experience seem possible to others.

Legal Document: Ground Saucer Watch, Inc. v. Central Intelligence Agency

Page 6 displays a legal document from the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York. It is a "COMPLAINT FOR DECLARATORY AND INJUNCTIVE RELIEF" filed by GROUND SAUCER WATCH, INC. against the CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE AGENCY and its director, Stansfield Turner. The action is brought under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to enjoin the defendants from withholding agency records and to order their production. GSW is identified as an independent nonprofit corporation organized for the purpose of scientifically investigating and researching UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the credibility of UFO reporting in popular media, the ethical responsibilities of publishers, and the distinction between sensationalism and scientific inquiry. The editorial stance, particularly evident in the National News Council's conclusion and the GSW's commentary, emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, questioning sources, and distinguishing between speculative entertainment and factual investigation. The publication advocates for an open mind but cautions against accepting unsubstantiated claims, especially from tabloids, while encouraging scientific efforts at understanding UFO phenomena.