IUFOPRA UFO Newsletter - 2001

Magazine Overview

This issue of the "Newsletter" from IUFOPRA, dated 2001, marks the beginning of the year with an apology for the non-availability of the Christmas Newsletter due to a computer virus that corrupted all files. The editor wishes everyone a Happy and Peaceful New Year and reflects on the past year, which was marked by attempts by former members to disrupt the organization. Despite these challenges, IUFOPRA remained at the forefront of UFOlogy in Ireland, thanks to the support of colleagues and members. The organization launched a new website in August, which has received significant traffic and support, with special thanks to Kathy for her dedication in constructing it. The website has received two awards for excellence: the Golden Diamond Site Award and the 2001 4star Award, which the organization feels validates their research and investigation into UFOs and the paranormal.

Key Events and Visitors

October saw a significant visit from Lorie Barnes of S.P.A.C.E. (Search Project of Aspects of Close Encounters) from New York. Lorie, a former secretary to Whitley Streiber, was interviewed by IUFOPRA regarding her abduction experiences, which will be featured in a future newsletter. An extract from her unpublished book, "Things Seen and Unseen," was also presented, offering intense reading and recounting her experiences in Ireland.

French COMETA Report: UFOs and Defense

A major focus of this issue is an exclusive report on the French COMETA report, "UFOs and Defense - What Must We Be Prepared For?" This 90-page report, produced by an independent group of former "auditors" from the Institute of Higher Studies for National Defence (IHEDN) and qualified experts, was sent to the French President and Prime Minister before its public release. The report, prefaced by General Brenard Norlain and with a preamble by Andre Lebeau, is authored by the "COMETA" committee, presided over by General Denis Letty. The committee includes prominent figures from the military, scientific, and academic fields.

The COMETA report's main theme is that the accumulation of well-documented UFO observations compels consideration of all hypotheses, especially extraterrestrial ones. The report is divided into three parts: "Facts and Testimonies," "The Present State of Knowledge," and "UFOs and Defence."

#### Part 1: Facts and Testimonies

This section presents a selection of well-known UFO cases, including testimonies from French pilots (M. Giraud, Colonel Bosc), an Air France flight, and international cases from Lakenheath (UK), RB-47 (USA), Teheran (Iran), and San Carlos de Bariloche (Argentina). Ground observations from Tananarive (Madagascar) and Kapustin Yar (Russia) are also included, along with specific French cases like Valensole, Caussac, Trans-en-Provence, and Nancy. The selection aims to convince an open-minded reader of the reality of UFOs.

#### Part 2: The Present State of Knowledge

This part surveys the organization of official UFO research in France, from the gendarmerie's instructions in 1974 to the creation of GEPAN and SEPRA. It reviews methods and results, referencing famous cases and the historical letter of General Twining asserting the reality of UFOs. The chapter "Hypotheses and Attempts at Modelling" discusses various models, including MHD propulsion and particle beams, and examines "global hypotheses," dismissing hoaxes, powerful sect groups, paraphysic phenomena, and collective hallucinations. It ultimately focuses on extraterrestrial hypotheses, including the "space islands" concept. The report also surveys UFO research in the US, Great Britain, and Russia, noting public interest but official denial in the US, while declassified documents suggest surveillance of nuclear installations by UFOs.

#### Part 3: UFOs and Defence

This section addresses prospective strategies and fundamental questions about extraterrestrials, their intentions, and behavior. It explores possible motivations, such as protecting Earth from nuclear war, and the repercussions on nation-states, suggesting the US may have secret, privileged contacts. The report emphasizes "critical vigilance" and "cosmic vigilance" to prevent surprises and manipulation. It recommends strengthening investigation agencies like SERPA, creating a high-level strategic cell, and undertaking diplomatic action with the US for cooperation.

The report also highlights "aeronautical implications" with recommendations for air staff and engineers, and explores the political and religious implications of UFOs. In conclusion, COMETA asserts the "quasi certain" physical reality of UFOs and the extraterrestrial hypothesis, though unproved, has far-reaching consequences. Final recommendations include informing decision-makers, reinforcing investigation means, creating a strategic cell, and pursuing diplomatic action with the US. Seven annexes accompany the report, covering topics like radar detection, astronomical observations, life in the universe, the Roswell case, and the antiquity of UFO phenomena.

UFO Cases Highlighted in the COMETA Report

This section provides brief descriptions of several UFO cases featured in the COMETA report. These include:

• French Pilot Testimony (March 7, 1997): M. Giraud and his navigator flying a Mirage IV jet saw a bright light rapidly closing, which tailed them but did not appear on radar.
• French Fighter Pilot Testimony (March 3, 1976): Colonel Claude Bosc saw a bright light approach on a collision course, enveloping his jet in green light. Radar showed nothing.
• Air France Flight 3532 (January 28, 1994): Pilot and copilot reported a large disc-like craft, confirmed by military radar, which disappeared suddenly.
• Lakenheath RAF, UK (August 13, 1956): Extraordinary UFO events over six hours involved clear radar tracks of fast-moving objects, with jets encountering unidentified traffic.
• RB-47 Case, USA (July 17, 1957): A reconnaissance jet crew engaged a UFO for nearly two hours, tracked visually and by radar, with onboard systems failing.
• Teheran, Iran (September 18, 1976): Two F-4 jets engaged a fast-moving UFO, but onboard weapons and control functions failed.
• San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina (August 1, 1995): A commercial jet reported a UFO alongside; a total electrical blackout forced the pilot to abort the landing.
• Tananarive, Madagascar (August 16, 1954): A brilliant green fireball resembling a metallic oval object caused a major electrical blackout.
• Kapustin Yar, Russia (July 28-29, 1989): Military personnel reported a disc-shaped UFO hovering over a missile base, shining a light beam.
• Valensole, France (July 1, 1965): Farmer Maurice Masse encountered a landed UFO and two small humanoids.
• Trans-en-Provence, France (January 8, 1981): A disc-shaped UFO briefly landed in a field, leaving a heavy impression and affecting plants.
• Cussac, France (August 29, 1967): Two children saw a sphere-shaped UFO and humanoids.
• Nancy, France (October 21, 1982): A scientist observed a small disc-shaped object hovering silently, which flew away at high speed, affecting plants.

UFOs: Is the Truth Out There?

This article, appearing in the Irish Independent, discusses how UFOs are now being taken seriously by astronauts, generals, and scientists, challenging international skepticism. It highlights the French military's study as a key factor in governments paying attention. The article mentions the release of satellite images of Area 51, which, despite causing a website meltdown, offered little extraordinary information as most operations are underground. It suggests that the French military's report, translated into English, is a more fruitful source for new information. The article notes that high-level officials, including retired generals, have concluded that unexplained UFO manifestations could be the work of extraterrestrial craft, with the extraterrestrial hypothesis being the best explanation. The report's findings are based on extensive examination of cases and data from official sources. The article also touches upon the growing number of unexplained sightings worldwide and the development of scientific models for interstellar travel. It acknowledges that while UFOs have demonstrated no hostile acts, intimidation maneuvers have been confirmed. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of the COMETA report's credentials and the call for international action, including cooperation between European and US states.

US Government and UFOs

This section discusses why other nations might take the UFO subject seriously, citing declassified US government documents that show unexplained objects with extraordinary capabilities challenging military activity globally. Examples include US fighter jets being scrambled, and Iranian, Peruvian, and Belgian forces encountering UFOs. Dr. Edgar Mitchell, an Apollo 14 astronaut, supports international cooperation on UFOs and finds the French report significant, believing there is reality to the phenomenon and calling for US congressional fact-finding hearings. The article notes that despite Mitchell's national hero status, his request for an investigation has been ignored by US officials. Public interest in UFOs remains high, with a ballot initiative in Missouri urging Congress to convene hearings. US Naval Reserve Commander Wiliard H. Miller expresses concern that the military's lack of preparation for encounters with unexplained craft could lead to dangerous confrontations and catastrophic consequences. He notes that others in high government positions share this growing interest.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the increasing seriousness with which UFO phenomena are being treated by official bodies, particularly the military and scientific communities, both in France and internationally. The extraterrestrial hypothesis is presented as a leading explanation for UFO sightings, supported by extensive data and the credibility of the researchers involved. The importance of international cooperation and open investigation into UFOs is a strong undercurrent, contrasting with historical official denial and secrecy, especially from the US government. The editorial stance is clearly pro-investigation and pro-disclosure, advocating for a more open and serious approach to the UFO question, moving it from the realm of paranoia to a matter of global significance.

This issue of UFO Magazine, dated November/December 2000, Volume 15, Number 6, with a cover price of $4.95, focuses on governmental transparency regarding UFO phenomena, the ethics and methods of UFO investigation, and a controversial interpretation linking UFOs to biblical prophecy.

The French Report: Chile Opens Up on UFOs

The lead article highlights a shift towards greater openness from some governments. Miller, a retired US military intelligence officer, concurs with COMETA's observation that UFOs show no hostility, and the real threat is the government's continued denial. He points out that US regulations like Air Force Regulation 200-2 and Joint Army Navy Air Force Publication 146 restrict the release of UFO data, with unauthorized disclosure potentially leading to prosecution under the Espionage Act. Even President Clinton reportedly had trouble accessing UFO information in 1995. In contrast, Chile is now openly addressing its concerns about air safety and UFOs, with the former Chief of the Chilean Air Force forming a committee to study near collisions between UFOs and civilian airliners. The French report is seen as potentially opening the door for more nations to be forthcoming.

UFO Investigation: Serious Business

Written by Anne Griffin, this section addresses the growing public interest in UFOs, partly fueled by media like 'The X-Files'. Griffin emphasizes that UFO investigation is not harmless fun and requires serious responsibility towards witnesses. She criticizes 'Cowboy Investigators' who lack qualifications, treat the subject lightly, and undermine the work of professional researchers. These individuals often refuse to join local UFO groups or undergo accredited training, leading to a lack of accountability and potential harm to witnesses. Griffin stresses the importance of accredited investigators adhering to a Code of Practice and warns against the unprofessional methods of those who lack experience and accreditation, particularly young individuals who may be influenced by media portrayals.

CIA's Role in the Study of UFOs (Continued from Last Issue)

This segment details an interaction where a CIA officer, under the guise of an Air Force officer, pacified a reporter named Davidson by stating there was no super agency involved and Air Force policy was not to disclose who was doing what. Despite Davidson's persistence, the officer claimed that a recording and notes were destroyed to conserve file space because the signal was of known US origin.

Extraterrestrial Alien Invasion or Fulfillment of Prophecy?

By Patrick J. Delaney, this article draws parallels between modern UFO phenomena and biblical accounts. It suggests that 'sons of God' mentioned in the Old Testament, who had sexual relations with human women, produced 'giants' or 'Nephilim'. The author posits that these angel/human hybrids, along with fallen angels led by Lucifer, contributed to the evil that led to the Great Flood. Delaney controversially suggests that 'humanoids' from UFOs could be legions of Lucifer's demons, and that current events indicate 'history repeating itself' with a final battle between good and evil, as described in the Book of Revelation.

Electrogravitics: What is All the Fuss About?

This section, by Marc Dixmier, Ph.D., discusses scientific research into 'Electrogravitics'. It references articles on the topic in UFO Magazine and mentions sources like 'Jane's Defense Weekly' and 'The Engineer'. A key focus is the Podkletnove experiment, involving a spinning superconductor ring that reportedly alters gravity. The article notes that scientists in China and Japan have duplicated this experiment, and British Aerospace is also attempting to replicate it with different materials.

Other Material and Incidents

The issue also includes a report on near-miss incidents involving aircraft, citing a UK Civil Aviation Authority report that found no explanation for an incident where a pilot reported an object looking like a fighter. It notes a decrease in dangerous near-misses but warns against complacency. The article also mentions the work of Graham W. Birdsall, editor of UFO Magazine, in publishing research on the subject.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes the idea that UFO phenomena are real and significant, often involving government secrecy and a need for more transparency. There is a strong emphasis on responsible, scientific investigation, contrasting it with amateurish or sensationalist approaches. The editorial stance appears to be critical of official denials and supportive of open inquiry into unexplained aerial phenomena. The inclusion of the 'Prophecy' article suggests an openness to exploring more esoteric or religious interpretations of UFOs, alongside scientific and governmental aspects. The overall tone is one of urging readers to take the subject seriously and to demand accountability from authorities and researchers alike.

Title: IUFOPRA UFO NEWSLETTER
Issue: January 2001
Volume: 2001
Date: January 2001

This issue of the IUFOPRA UFO NEWSLETTER delves into various aspects of UFOlogy and related scientific and governmental concerns.

CIA and UFO Investigations

The newsletter details incidents involving the CIA's handling of UFO investigations, highlighting a perceived 'runaround' by a CIA officer named Davidson. The Contact Division of the CIA, in response to Davidson's accusations of destroying records, decided to cease contact, adding to the mystery surrounding the agency's role. Another incident in 1958 involved Major Keyhoe charging the CIA with deliberately asking eyewitnesses not to make their sightings public. This stemmed from a request for photographs taken by Ralph C. Mayher, a photographer for KYW-TV, in 1952. Despite the agency's involvement, they refused to provide an evaluation to Mayher, who wanted to use the information for a TV program on UFOs. Keyhoe attempted to expose the CIA's role, but the agency referred his inquiry to the Air Force, fueling speculation about their deep involvement.

UK UFO Incident

A significant event reported is a UK UFO sighting that baffled aviation experts. On June 12, 1998, pilots of a McDonnell Douglas MD81 plane flying from London's Heathrow Airport reported a metallic grey-coloured object that narrowly avoided colliding with their aircraft, passing only 20-50 meters away. The captain described it as the size of a small aircraft, while the co-pilot noted it as a 'bright light.' Notably, the object was not recorded on radar.

Theoretical Physics and Space Exploration

The newsletter touches upon theoretical physics with a section on a 'new force field.' This proposed force is described as weak but detectable, potentially affecting space probes and suggesting that current understanding of gravitation, even post-Einstein, is incomplete. The article also references the 'gravito-magnetic' effect of General Relativity, clarifying it's due to gravitational fields, not magnetic ones. The potential dangers of this new force to living matter are raised, drawing a parallel to early radiologists dying of cancer. The author expresses surprise that no scientific papers have been published on this subject, suggesting a race for a Nobel Prize. The piece also references a 1991 'cold fusion' craze as a cautionary tale.

'2001: A Space Odyssey' and Contact

Harold Walter Egeln's piece, '2001-- A S.P.A.C.E. ODYSSEY,' reflects on Stanley Kubrick's film and its themes of exploration and contact with alien intelligence. Egeln draws parallels between the film's narrative and the current 'SPACE' community's experiences with non-human intelligences. He discusses the complexity and paradoxical nature of these encounters and the human response, ranging from caution to a desire for transformation. The article highlights the lack of consensus within the ufology community and the scientific society's general skepticism towards such experiences. It mentions a 'WOW! Breakthrough' documented on their website, described as an artistic endeavor that asks profound questions about consciousness and contact.

Letter to Congress on Groom Lake, Nevada

A letter sent to Congress on February 1, 2000, from Connie Linscott, references Presidential Determination 99-37 issued by President William J. Clinton on September 20, 1999. This determination exempted the US Air Force's operating location near Groom Lake, Nevada, from federal, state, and local hazardous or solid waste laws that could require the disclosure of classified information. The disclosure of such information was deemed harmful to national security.

Near-Earth Objects (NEOs) and Impact Hazards

An FAQ section addresses Near-Earth Objects (NEOs), defining them as small bodies in the solar system capable of striking Earth. It discusses the size of NEOs and their potential for causing local or global environmental damage, including mass extinctions. The article notes that while no known NEOs are on a collision course, the Earth has been impacted throughout its history and will be in the future. It outlines the ongoing efforts by various international organizations and surveys, such as the LINEAR program, to find and track NEOs. The risk of impacts is calculated statistically, with a significant danger posed by objects around 2 km in diameter. The importance of finding NEOs and having sufficient warning time for defensive measures is emphasized. The Tunguska event in 1908 is cited as an example of a significant impact.

Editorial Information

The IUFOPRA UFO NEWSLETTER is edited by Anne Griffin and produced by a team including Patrick J. Delaney, Kathy Crinion, and Patrick J. Delaney. The copyright is held by IUFOPRA INFORMATION NETWORK for 2001. The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editorial team.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around government secrecy and its impact on UFO investigations (particularly the CIA), the reporting of unusual aerial phenomena, theoretical scientific concepts that challenge existing paradigms, and the existential threat posed by celestial objects. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unexplained phenomena, critical examination of governmental transparency, and a proactive approach to understanding potential cosmic threats, while acknowledging the skepticism from mainstream science.