IUFOPRA Journal vol 4 no 7

Magazine Overview

Title: IUFOPRA Journal
Issue: Volume 4 Issue 7
Date: August 28, 1995

This issue of the IUFOPRA Journal, published by The Irish UFO and Paranormal Research Association, focuses on the potential impact of the controversial Roswell footage and explores various facets of UFOlogy, including technological theories, arguments against the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH), and the intersection of UFOs with religious texts.

Cover Story: The Day the Earth Stands Still?

The cover highlights the impending screening of footage by Ray Santilli on Channel 4 in the UK, which he claims is actual film of the Roswell crash, including alien bodies and an autopsy. The journal notes that many already doubt its authenticity, calling it potentially the most ambitious hoax yet, and states they will reserve judgment until August 28th.

Article: 'Cloaking' - The Androgynous Approach (Denis Harper)

This article reports on a UFO sighting in Newcastle, Co. Down, on September 25, 1994, observed by the author and another witness. Harper conjectures that the craft's ability to appear and disappear might be due to its capacity to vibrate or oscillate at a specific frequency, creating a resonance that makes it invisible, akin to a guitar string. He lists several characteristics of UFOs that support this theory: fantastic speed, hovering silently, appearing/disappearing at will, unusual sounds intensifying before disappearance, and being shrouded in a corona. The editor's note links this to the 'Philadelphia Experiment' and the theoretical 'Unified Field Theory'.

Article: An Argument Against the ETH - Joe Kerr

Joe Kerr argues against the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH), positing that many UFO reports are misidentifications of mundane objects (IFOs). He contends that a significant faction within UFOlogy prioritizes myth-making over factual investigation and often claims government cover-ups without substantial evidence. Kerr uses the Roswell incident as an example, questioning how such a significant secret could be kept by hundreds of people over decades. He also dismisses claims of animal mutilations being linked to UFOs and criticizes the idea of aliens dissecting cattle as ridiculous. He suggests that the fascination with the 'unknown' or 'alternate reality' stems from a deep-seated human need for myth creation, which has evolved from ancient beliefs to modern UFO narratives.

Article: An Alien Hunt - Miles Johnston

This article recounts an 'Alien Hunt' undertaken by Miles Johnston, IUFOPRA's Regional Officer for England, and a group of 16 people during the 1994 World UFO Congress in Mesquite, Nevada. The group visited an area known for alleged alien contacts and underground space ports. The account details sightings of fast-moving objects, encounters with 'Greys' (described as shadowy figures that can paralyze observers and stimulate strong odors), and the discovery of a concealed tunnel. Johnston also mentions claims of government activities, including 'UN' helicopters and troop movements, linked to enforcing a 'New World Order' and implanting technology. The article notes the fear among locals regarding both government and alien activities.

Article: The Bible and the UFO Connection - Pat Delaney

Pat Delaney examines biblical accounts, particularly the Old Testament, to find parallels with UFO phenomena. He focuses on the parting of the Red Sea as described in Exodus, suggesting it could have been caused by a 'Space Craft' operated by 'Befaps' (beings from another planetary system), who may have been responsible for establishing Biblical Religion. Delaney questions why the Church is reluctant to acknowledge the potential UFO connection in the Bible and discusses the concept of 'demythologizing' biblical accounts. He proposes that 'Angels' might be interpreted as extraterrestrial missionaries and that the Resurrection and Ascension narratives could also be viewed through a UFO lens.

Other Sections:

• 'ETH' - The Extraterrestrial Hypothesis - There are Alternatives...: A sub-section within Joe Kerr's article, reinforcing the idea that alternative explanations exist for UFO phenomena.
• ENIGMAS - The Journal of Strange Phenomena Investigations: An advertisement for a magazine edited by Malcolm Robinson, covering paranormal topics.
• Southampton UFO Group Newsletter: An advertisement for a monthly newsletter from the Southampton UFO Group.
• Director's Comment: A brief note from the Director of IUFOPRA inviting reader feedback on the articles and the study of ufology.
• Letters to the Editor: An invitation for correspondence to be published in the next issue.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal presents a critical yet open-minded approach to UFOlogy. While Joe Kerr strongly argues against the ETH, advocating for rational explanations and cautioning against myth-making, other articles explore more speculative theories, such as advanced cloaking technology and the biblical connection to UFOs. The overall stance appears to be one of encouraging investigation and discussion, even when presenting dissenting views. The IUFOPRA Journal aims to present diverse opinions, stating that the views expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily IUFOPRA as a whole.

This issue of the IUFOPRA JOURNAL, titled 'The Bible and UFOs (Cont...)', delves into the intersection of religious texts, particularly the Bible, with the phenomenon of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs). The content explores the possibility that biblical narratives and figures can be interpreted through a UFOological lens, alongside discussions on psychological explanations for sightings and specific case files.

The Bible and UFOs (Cont...)

The article posits that 'Befaps' (interpreted as Angels) were extraterrestrial beings who were instrumental in the development of Biblical Religion. It questions whether man created God in his own image or if God revealed himself through these 'Angels'. The author references John 14:9, where Jesus states, 'He who has seen me has seen the Father,' suggesting a divine presence. The text raises questions about Christ's resurrection and ascension, proposing they might have involved travel to another world. The role of UFOs in the development of Hebrew-Christian faith is highlighted, noting the Church's refusal to comment on the matter. The article asserts that the Bible claims 'Befaps' contributed significantly at various times.

A central question posed is the evidence for a 'Realistic' rather than a 'Mythological' view of modern biblical information. It discusses how doubt can be a purifying force but can also lead to false theologies if taken to extremes. The possibility of UFOs existing is linked to the idea that God's message was 'Revealed' by beings from another world who took human form. Hebrews 2:7 is cited, suggesting that humans might eventually become like Angels in the Resurrection world. The Ascension is presented as an event where two beings from another world explained its significance to the Disciples. The article suggests that the Biblical Religion was given to a chosen few by the 'Befaps', and that man, responsible for distributing its contents, did not reveal the whole truth.

The Bible and UFOs (Cont...)

The article continues by exploring the idea that UFOs could be the 'Befaps' themselves, possibly watching humanity. It notes the Angels' concern for the success of the Gospel, citing Luke 15:10 ('there is joy before the Angels of God over one sinner who repents'). The author speculates that if Angels are so active, why aren't they more involved in 'evangelism'. A hypothetical scenario is presented: if a UFO landed on the White House lawn and aliens urged people to accept the Biblical Religion, many conversions might follow. This suggests a 'do it yourself' policy by these beings. The objective of the Gospels is to make men 'Children of God', but the author laments that humanity has caused wars and environmental destruction.

It is suggested that the 'Befaps' may be losing interest and remaining aloof. If UFOs are indeed space ships from another world with supernatural powers, they would have been adequate transport for the 'Befaps' involved in the Advent of the Biblical Religion. Currently, they seem to be surveying the planet rather than making contact. The possibility of multiple groups of beings observing Earth is also considered.

The article then shifts to the Book of Exodus, questioning whether Moses was a religious thinker with supernatural powers or if the Israelites were under the control of 'Befaps' who deliberately planted a religious idea. The 'Angel of the Lord' speaking to Moses from a burning bush is highlighted, noting the Angel spoke directly for God. The Exodus narrative, including the plagues and the parting of the Red Sea, is re-examined. A UFO, described as a 'pillar of cloud by day' and a 'pillar of fire by night', is suggested to have aided the Israelites' escape. The article questions whether this was a divine intervention or 'Befap' involvement via UFO technology.

Modern UFOs exhibiting a 'CORONA effect' are compared to the biblical 'pillar of cloud'. The Hebrew terms 'Ammud' and 'Mazzebah' for 'pillar' are discussed, suggesting the UFO could have appeared as a cylindrical column of cloud by day and a glowing column at night.

UFOs - if proven real, their impact would surely be greatest on the Religions of Earth...

This section reiterates the idea that UFOs, if real, would have a profound impact on Earth's religions. It suggests that a UFO might have led the Israelites across the Red Sea, separating them from the Egyptians. The author questions whether the biblical account is a true historical event or a 'Mythological' fabrication designed to conceal facts. The possibility of 'Befaps' using UFOs to intervene and save Israel from Egypt is raised.

The article encourages questioning the authenticity of biblical passages, considering whether the Red Sea story is a 'Mythological' fabrication, a divine intervention, or the result of 'Befap' UFO involvement. It also questions how Israel escaped Egypt if not for divine or extraterrestrial assistance. The idea of 'Befaps' shaping a specific religious perspective for the Jewish people is proposed.

'The Bible & UFOs', by Pat. Delaney, is noted to continue in the next issue.

Irish Case File - Co. Offaly UFO

This section details a UFO sighting that occurred over 23 years prior in Co. Offaly, Ireland, around 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM in August 1970. The witness, a farmer named P, saw a star-like object moving very fast low in the sky. As it approached, it slowed down, and P observed it for about 30 seconds to a minute and a half, feeling paralyzed with fear.

The object was described as comparable to a bubble-type car, with a brown underside and a green light. It was completely silent. The top part of the UFO was made of glass. P could see into the UFO, observing a corridor with four men and four women on either side, all wearing military-type uniforms in green and grey. The men wore Army coats and trousers, were clean-shaven with tidy hair, while the women wore military-style coats and skirts. All appeared to be in their early twenties and were described as especially handpicked for their mission. They were of average height, with the women being slightly smaller. The men faced the women, and all appeared seated in armchair-style seats.

As a qualified mechanic, P was interested in the instruments but saw none, nor any antennas. As the UFO took off, its lights changed from green to orange, and the turning light sped up. It shot straight up and disappeared in a South West direction. P felt disappointed that he was not taken or contacted, and his longing for their return lasted over a week. There was no jet stream observed.

The weather conditions were a setting sun, clear sky, warm, dry night with no wind. The investigators are listed as Pat Delaney and Anne Griffin.

The Eduard Meier case - Final Evidence?

This article, written by Margaret Fry, is a response to a previous report suggesting the Eduard Meier case was a hoax. Fry contends that the photographs and contacts in the Eduard Meier case are genuine. She acknowledges that information is second-hand, gathered from books and articles by various ufologists. Fry states that while she cannot definitively prove that Meier, George Adamski, and other contactees had contacts with extraterrestrials, the reality of these experiences for the contactees is undeniable in thousands of cases vetted by scientific organizations.

Fry argues that the experts who examined Meier's photographs were successful professionals who likely had the means to pursue their interests. However, she contrasts their comfortable middle-class background with the reality of grinding poverty, suggesting they may not understand the financial constraints faced by someone like Meier. She notes that Meier lived in a small mountain village, subsisting on social securities and pin-money, which left little for expensive photography equipment or model UFOs.

She highlights that Meier's films were processed by local photo shops, and the owners confirmed they handled and processed all of Meier's photographs, believing them to be genuine. The article also addresses the practical consideration that Meier, with only one arm, could not have easily dangled a model UFO or posed with a simple camera. The presence of small model UFOs shown by Meier, which he claimed to have copied from what he had seen, is mentioned.

Fry criticizes 'unscrupulous experts' for using these details to prove the case a hoax, asserting that many of Meier's photos are genuine, as is his contact with aliens, though she acknowledges that contactees sometimes embellish their experiences.

Willy Bar, a photographer who developed Meier's films, stated he never saw anything suspicious and was certain there were no double exposures. He also noted that Meier could not have dangled a model UFO with one arm. Fry concludes that while Semjase might have duped Meier, or that contactees might be used as dupes for some purpose, the implications are frightening. She advises keeping one's feet firmly on the ground when studying such contacts.

Eduard Meier - hoaxer or hoaxed?

This section continues the discussion on the Eduard Meier case. Willy Bar reiterated that he never saw anything suspicious in the films he developed and was certain there were no double exposures. The practical consideration of Meier's single arm making it difficult to manipulate a model UFO is raised. The article mentions that numerous guests at Meier's house never saw any other camera equipment. The existence of small model UFOs, which Meier claimed to have copied, is also noted.

Fry believes that many of Meier's photos are genuine and that his contact with aliens may also be real, though she acknowledges that contactees, like those she has investigated, sometimes embroider their experiences, possibly for sinister reasons.

What Psychology can tell us about UFOs

This article by Rick O'Gorman examines how psychology can explain UFO sightings and encounters. It notes that psychology has paid little attention to the UFO phenomenon despite its existence for over forty years. The article aims to rectify this by looking at reported UFO sightings and encounters and assessing whether known psychological phenomena can conventionally explain them.

The distinction between 'sightings' (viewing an unidentified object without interaction) and 'encounters' (involving interaction) is made. UFO events are classified into distant encounters (DE1-DE3) and close encounters (CE1-CE4, including abductions). The article states it will not explore DE3s or CE2s, which involve physical evidence.

It acknowledges the possibility that witnesses are telling the truth and have seen flying saucers, stating there is no theoretical objection to extraterrestrial beings operating within the biosphere. However, it emphasizes the need for conventional explanations when corroborating evidence is lacking. Possible explanations for UFO reports include deception by witnesses seeking attention or financial gain. The tabloid press is mentioned as a source that pays for unsubstantiated stories, encouraging fabrication. The likelihood of false reports increases during UFO 'flaps' when public awareness is high.

The article discusses how UFO witnesses have suffered socially, with some being sacked from jobs or shunned. It notes that while behaviors like 'flashing' can be rewarding in extreme situations, most UFO reporters are people in 'normal' situations.

Distant encounters, such as seeing a moving light, are the most frequent. The article questions if witnesses might be mistaking aeroplanes or the evening star for UFOs. It explains that the eye is not like a camera; it processes information, and the brain can occasionally misinterpret stimuli, leading to visual illusions. Examples like 'A bird in in the hand' and the moon appearing larger near the horizon are given.

Factors to consider when determining the accuracy of a witness's account include whether the witness was stationary and the movement of the light. The article notes that objects closer appear to move faster relative to the landscape. The form of the light (pinpoint or hazy) and its behavior (e.g., rapid changes in direction) are also important. The article suggests that while many sightings may not meet these criteria, a substantial number do.

Memory's role in UFO reports is discussed, explaining that memory relies on the meaning of events for storage and that recall can be biased by interpretation. If a witness believes they saw an alien spacecraft, their memories may be altered to fit this interpretation.

Close encounters (CEs) require examination of different psychological phenomena. It is suggested that someone claiming to see a flying saucer up close might not simply be misperceiving something commonplace. The difference between CEls, CE3s, and CE4s is a matter of degree. CEs involve an event close to the witness, often with a UFO present, which behaves in a way that suggests awareness of witnesses.

For CEls, the article suggests examining if the object could have been a commonplace vehicle like a helicopter or aeroplane. It notes that man-made craft would produce significant noise, and the lack of noise reported by witnesses might be a factor. The article also mentions that memories can be biased by 'scripts' for events, influencing recall. For instance, one might recall a wedding ceremony detail they didn't actually witness.

LETTERS

This section contains letters from readers. One letter from Northern Ireland Paranormal Research Association discusses a personal experience of hearing a 'Banshee' and speculates about genetic manipulation and hybrid encounters, linking it to androgynous awareness and overpopulation as a global dilemma.

Another letter from Denis Harper comments on bioluminescence, mentioning the enzyme 'Luciferase' and its connection to energy reactions. He questions if this relates to a 'luciferin race' theory and notes the difficulty in separating genetic involvement from ufology. He also refers to an article on bioluminescence in the Spring issue of the IUFOPRA JOURNAL.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the potential connections between biblical narratives and UFO phenomena, the concept of extraterrestrial beings ('Befaps' or Angels) influencing human history and religion, and the examination of specific UFO cases and witness accounts. The issue also explores psychological explanations for UFO sightings and encounters, contrasting them with the possibility of genuine alien phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to question traditional interpretations and consider alternative explanations for historical and contemporary events involving unexplained aerial phenomena.

This issue of the IUFOPRA Journal, spanning pages 21-26, focuses on the intersection of psychology and UFO phenomena, presenting a range of theories and case studies. The articles explore how psychological factors might explain certain UFO sightings and encounters, while also examining specific incidents and their reported side effects. The publication dates for these articles range from January to November 1994.

What Psychology Can Tell Us About UFOs (Cont...)

This section delves into psychological explanations for UFO sightings, particularly focusing on 'Close Encounters' (CEs). It discusses how hallucinations, defined as sensory perceptions without external stimuli, could account for some experiences. Factors contributing to hallucinations include sleep deprivation, certain drugs (like LSD), withdrawal from addictions, and psychotic disorders. While psychologists have found no evidence of mental instability in CE witnesses, sleep deprivation and drug effects remain possible causes. The article notes that multiple witnesses are unlikely to hallucinate the same event, suggesting that some CEs might not be purely psychological.

Michael Persinger's research into the electrical stimulation of the brain via electromagnetic fields produced by tectonic strain is presented as another potential explanation for hallucinations and terror, similar to abduction cases. However, the existence of these strain fields is theoretical.

The article then addresses 'abduction' cases (CE4s), acknowledging their controversial nature. It highlights the initial reliance on hypnosis to aid recall, noting that while hypnosis can relax subjects and improve memory, it is also known to facilitate the creation of 'false memories'. This has led some courts to reject hypnosis-obtained evidence. Crucially, the article points out that many CE4 victims recall their memories spontaneously, without hypnosis.

Sleep paralysis is introduced as a third alternative explanation for CE4s. This natural mechanism, which paralyzes the body during sleep to prevent injury, can sometimes occur when falling asleep or waking up. Hallucinatory images can accompany sleep paralysis, leading witnesses to believe they are being held down or prevented from moving.

The issue of missing time is discussed in relation to CE4s. The article questions whether sleep paralysis could explain all such cases, particularly those occurring while driving.

Furthermore, the article notes that victims of CE4s often exhibit symptoms of Rape Syndrome or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). These disorders, characterized by phobic reactions, reexperiencing traumatic events, and memory loss (psychogenic amnesia), are typically caused by highly traumatic events like rape, war, or natural disasters. The author suggests that alien abduction, if it occurred, would similarly be a traumatic event.

Despite the psychological explanations, the article concludes that it is reasonable to suppose that some UFOs could be alien spacecraft, making abduction a valid explanation for apparent CE4s. It calls for 'catching ET red-handed'.

The article criticizes the academic community's general indifference and assumption that the UFO issue is easily explained, suggesting that psychology could play a vital role in improving UFO research.

Rick O'Gorman, a postgraduate Psychology student at University College Dublin, is credited as the author of this section.

UFO Sightings & their Side - Effects

This section presents several case files detailing UFO sightings and their alleged side effects.

Tananarive, Madagascar (August 1954)

Edmond Champagnac, head of Technical Services of Air France, witnessed a luminous green ball descending over Tananarive. It was followed by two objects: a lentil-shaped device described as 'electric-green luminous gas' and a cylindrical object approximately 130 feet long, resembling a contemporary aircraft fuselage without fins. The objects were estimated to be traveling at 185 M.P.H. [300 KM/H]. As the UFOs passed over the city, all electric lights were extinguished and then came back on. Animals at a zoological park went into a frenzy and stampeded. An official investigation was set up, led by Father Coze, director of Tananarive Observatory, who estimated that at least 20,000 people saw the UFOs. The report's fate remains unknown.

Madagascar Close Encounter (May 1967)

Ten years later, 23 soldiers, their officer, and four NCOs of the French Foreign Legion witnessed a bright metallic object, resembling a 'shining egg', descend rapidly with a piercing, whistling sound. The soldiers became 'paralysed', and when they checked their watches, 3.15pm indicated that three hours had passed unaccounted for.

Welsh Case Files - Margaret Fry

This section presents a selection of case files from Margaret Fry, covering January to November 1994.

• Southport, Cheshire (March 31, 1993, 9pm): Mr C. observed two large, noiseless lights flying from North to South in a curve. His brother-in-law also saw the same lights in Liverpool.
• Heywood, Lancashire (1991): Mr C. reported a very large UFO hovering over an Ambulance Station.
• Denbigh Castle, Clwyd (March 1964, 1.30am): D.W. witnessed a beam of light encasing her dog, causing it pain and burn marks. She also felt a burning sensation on her arm, and burn marks remained.
• Clwyd Mountain, near Prestatyn (May 12, 1984, midnight): Mrs R. saw a glowing golden object, described as a fat cigar shape with a silvery rear, hovering over her house before moving off.
• Melidan Mountains (January 20, 1994): Mrs Barbara K. had a severe accident involving a caravan rolling back on her. The author mentions this in the context of how deeply impressions from sightings can affect people, even years later.

Villa Carlos Paz, Cordoba, Argentine (June 1968)

Pedro Pretzel, proprietor of the Motel La Cuesta, saw an unidentified object with two bright red lights. His daughter, Maria Eladia Pretzel, encountered a six-foot-tall being in a shiny sky-blue scaled diver's suit holding a sky-blue ball. Maria experienced a lethargic feeling when the light pointed at her and felt an impression of 'goodness and kindness'. She lost consciousness and was found by her father. The case raises questions about projected images or holograms. The intense beams of light from the object are believed to have attracted Maria's attention.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently explores UFO sightings and encounters, presenting them as phenomena that warrant serious investigation. There is a clear emphasis on documenting witness accounts and exploring potential explanations, including psychological ones. The articles highlight the physical and psychological side effects experienced by witnesses, suggesting that these encounters have a tangible impact. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards the possibility of alien spacecraft and abduction, while also acknowledging the need for rigorous research and evidence. The recurring theme is the unexplained nature of many UFO events and the ongoing mystery surrounding them, with a call for continued research and information sharing.