Magonia - No 27 - 1987 09

Magazine Overview

Magonia, issue number 27, published in September 1987, is an independent journal dedicated to the broad examination of anomalous phenomena and their interaction with society and the individual. It is published independently by the editors and has no connection with any other magazine or group. The cover price was 75p. The issue incorporates MUFOB 76.

In this issue:

This issue features three main articles: "BREAK A LEG! The UFO Experience as Theatre" by Martin Kottmeyer, "AND THE DOGS BEGAN TO HOWL The Unofficial History of the Haunted House" by Peter Rogerson, and "THE ASTRO-MIRAGE HYPOTHESIS A Solution of the UFO Problem" by Steuart Campbell. It also includes sections for Letters, Reviews, and Columns.

Editorial Notes

The editorial discusses the current surge of interest in 'cover-ups' in British ufology, attributing it partly to the Rendlesham case and the release of FOIA material in the US. It notes the exceptional sales of Tim Good's 'Above Top Secret' and links the public awareness of covert government operations to affairs like the 'Say Co....r' affair and attempts to prevent the publication of Mr P...r Wo...t's memoirs. The editor humorously notes that despite having a copy of Mr Wo...t's work, it contains no mention of intelligence officer Mr G....n C.......n or the involvement of Burgess and Maclean in the Cedric Allingham hoax, nor does it reveal that MI5 chief Sir Roor H....s was a secret BUFORA double agent. The editorial concludes with a call for transparency: "I think we should be told."

Articles

BREAK A LEG! The UFO Experience as Theatre (Martin Kottmeyer)

Martin Kottmeyer argues that the UFO phenomenon, rather than being about learning or teaching, operates as a form of theatre. He posits that the irrationality and illogical elements, such as the frequent use of car chases in reports, are not indicative of technological realities but rather dramatic conventions used to heighten tension and create excitement, mirroring elements found in action-adventure films. Kottmeyer analyzes various UFO report motifs, including chases, abductions, amnesia, explosions, crashes, immunity to weapons, and the use of force fields, suggesting they are borrowed from science fiction and cinematic tropes. He notes that the 'alien way of doing things' often appears 'totally dumb' and that the reliance on these dramatic devices serves to create a compelling narrative for witnesses and investigators. Abductions, in particular, are seen as a dramatic convention to bring aliens and humans together, introducing conflict and power, and excusing the aliens' inscrutability. Amnesia is described as a common dramatic gimmick, creating mystery around missing time. Kottmeyer concludes that the UFO phenomenon is a form of entertainment, and witnesses often act out roles, influenced by the investigator's expectations, in a performance that seeks validation. He also touches upon the lack of 'ultra gigantic' aliens in reports as a hopeful sign of rationality, contrasting it with science fiction's use of such creatures.

AND THE DOGS BEGAN TO HOWL The Unofficial History of the Haunted House (Peter Rogerson)

Peter Rogerson explores the concept of the 'haunted house' from the perspective of a local history librarian. He observes that many unreported 'haunted houses' stem from a fear of the 'off-campus' history of the house – its organic round of birth, creation, and death. This history, perceived as oppressive and threatening, is seen as an extension of the individual's body or personality, imprinted by previous occupants. Rogerson contrasts this with the formal, 'campus history' taught in schools, which relies on written documents. He emphasizes the power of 'oral history' and 'folk memory', which, unlike documentary history, remains a present reality shaping lives. The 'history' of haunted houses is presented as an 'off-campus', people's history, a folklore that often contradicts documentary truth. He uses the example of the Herald of Free Enterprise ferry disaster to illustrate how certain events can render a space a 'catastrophic scar' and consecrate it to a particular historical significance. Rogerson suggests that the concept of the haunted house can be a metaphor for disturbed family dynamics, and that the incomer's sense of alienation from the house community, and their failure to experience it as 'home sweet home', can be projected onto the house, making it appear hostile. He also notes the connection between poltergeists and the awakening of sexual energies in adolescents, and hauntings with events after death, linking them to the emergence and fading of life.

THE ASTRO-MIRAGE HYPOTHESIS A Solution of the UFO Problem (Steuart Campbell)

Steuart Campbell proposes that UFO reports can be explained by astronomy and meteorological optics, effectively solving the UFO problem. He argues that many reports, particularly those of discoid shapes, are caused by sightings of astronomical objects distorted by atmospheric conditions. Campbell explains the phenomenon of mirages, distinguishing between inferior and superior mirages. He states that superior mirages, caused by temperature inversions, can explain UFO reports. He provides examples, such as the 1979 Livingston (Scotland) report and the 1980 Tocamorden (England) report, which he attributes to mirages of Venus. He also discusses the Nash-Fortenberry report of 1952 and a 1978 sighting in New Zealand, both involving Venus. Campbell notes that mirages of Jupiter have also been responsible for many reports, citing the Captain Mantell incident and a 1958 sighting off Trinidade Island. He explains how the 'merge line' in a mirage can create the appearance of a 'flying saucer' with colored lights, and how temporal variations in the thermocline can cause mirages to move. He also mentions the 'Novaya Zemlya effect' which allows astronomical objects below the horizon to be visible. Campbell concludes that all naked-eye planets can produce mirages and that the phenomenon accounts for the consistent, universal reports of UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the reinterpretation of anomalous phenomena through unconventional lenses. Magonia consistently challenges conventional explanations, suggesting that UFOs might be understood as a form of 'theatre' or a manifestation of psychological and sociological factors rather than literal extraterrestrial craft. The magazine also explores the intersection of folklore, history, and personal experience, particularly in the context of 'haunted houses'. The editorial stance appears to be critical and analytical, encouraging readers to question established narratives and consider alternative, often more mundane or psychological, explanations for phenomena that capture the public imagination. There is a clear skepticism towards sensationalism and a preference for reasoned, albeit unconventional, analysis. The magazine also seems to advocate for transparency and the disclosure of information, as highlighted in the editorial's closing remark.

This issue of Magonia, number 19, published in September 1987, features a cover story on Jenny Randles' book "The UFO Conspiracy; the first forty years." The magazine maintains a critical and analytical stance on UFO phenomena, often exploring skeptical explanations and scrutinizing the methodologies of ufologists.

Astronomical Mirages as UFO Explanations

The lead article, likely authored by John Harney, presents a compelling argument that many UFO sightings can be explained by astronomical mirages. It details how bright stars and planets, such as Sirius, Saturn, Canopus, and Vega, can produce illusions that resemble UFOs. The article explains that atmospheric conditions can cause these celestial bodies to appear to hover, move in unusual ways, or even split into multiple images, leading to misidentification. Specific cases are cited, including reports from Kirtland Air Force Base, Ventnor, and Socorro, where mirages of stars or planets were likely responsible. The author posits that this hypothesis accounts for the global consistency in UFO appearances and their reported 'impossible' maneuvers, as mirages are not limited by physical constraints. The article concludes that the UFO problem is largely solved by this scientific explanation, negating the need for more exotic hypotheses involving aliens or paranormal influences.

Book Reviews

The UFO Conspiracy by Jenny Randles

This review, likely by John Rimmer, is highly critical of Jenny Randles' "The UFO Conspiracy." The reviewer contends that the book presents UFO cases in an uncritical, almost 1950s-style ufology manner, heavily favoring the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH) and suppressing alternative viewpoints. The reviewer accuses Randles of misrepresenting facts, particularly concerning the Rendlesham Forest incident, by introducing details not present in initial reports to preempt skeptical arguments. The review also criticizes Randles for suggesting that sceptics have ulterior motives and for implying a conspiracy to overshadow her book's launch. The reviewer highlights Randles' perceived shift in perspective, possibly influenced by her involvement with Rendlesham, and questions her sensationalist approach to cases like Zigmund Adamski's death.

The Ghost in the Atom: A Discussion of the Mysteries of Quantum Physics (edited by P.C.W. Davies and J.R. Brown)

This review, by John Harney, discusses a book that explores the philosophical implications of quantum theory. It touches upon George Berkeley's idealism and the question of whether the external world exists independently of observation. The review highlights David Bohm's contribution, which addresses the problem of how the universe exists without observers, except possibly God. The reviewer notes the book's discussion of quantum paradoxes, such as Schrödinger's cat, and its attempt to connect psychic phenomena with quantum theory, though it expresses skepticism about the author's approach to these complex topics.

Strange Sheffield: legends, Folklore and mysteries of Hallamshire by David Clarke and Rob Wilson

Nigel Watson reviews this well-researched booklet, which documents local mysteries. The reviewer notes that the book explores UFOs as part of a broader interaction with the landscape and its energies, referencing 'leys' and legends. The book is praised for its balanced use of field and library research, avoiding wild assumptions. It examines phenomena like the 'Spring Heeled Jack' apparitions, suggesting a link to contemporary UFO entities, and discusses how observer expectations and the 'intervening variable' of earth energy might play a role.

Psychic Animals by Dennis Bardens

John Harney reviews Dennis Bardens' "Psychic Animals," describing it as a mixed bag. While acknowledging the book's lively writing and numerous anecdotes about animals with apparent psychic powers, the reviewer criticizes its lack of accurate research and its tendency to run out of steam. The review questions whether 'homing pets' respond to psychic beacons or if owners are projecting 'occult powers' onto animals to assuage guilt.

On Dreams and Death: A Jungian Interpretation by Marie-Louise von Franz

John Harney reviews this book, noting its focus on Jungian analysis and the interpretation of dreams related to impending death. The reviewer finds the book's exploration of death dreams and the concept of death as a transition to a more profound state of being to be sensible and well-written, though suspects it may not appeal to those unsympathetic to Jung's ideas.

The Sun and Solar System Debris: A Catalog of Astronomical Anomalies, The Sourcebook UFO Project by William R. Corliss

John Harney reviews this volume, noting its wide range of topics including unusual comets, meteors, and anomalous objects seen near the sun. The reviewer finds the discussions and evaluations to be sober and reasonable, with references provided for each report. However, the reviewer expresses surprise at the omission of the 'phantom satellite of Venus'.

Into the Unknown by Harvey Day

John Harney reviews this collection of anecdotes about telepathy, precognition, and clairvoyance, many involving animals. The reviewer notes that the stories are largely unreferenced and intended for entertainment rather than information.

Parapsychology: When the Irrational Rejoins Science by Rémy Chauvin

John Harney reviews this introduction to parapsychology, intended for non-specialists. The reviewer notes that Chauvin regards the reality of psychic phenomena as established and urges closer study of events in the wider world. The book discusses topics from divination to quantum theory, but the reviewer expresses skepticism about Chauvin's attempt to connect psychic phenomena with quantum theory and his lack of specific references for key experiments.

Light Years: an investigation into the extraterrestrial experiences of Eduard Meier by Gary Kinder

John Rimmer reviews Gary Kinder's "Light Years," which details the claims of Eduard 'Billy' Meier, a Swiss farmer who alleges contact with extraterrestrials. Rimmer is highly critical of the book's portrayal of Meier as a naive, uneducated peasant, pointing out that Meier lives in Switzerland, a country with high living standards and advanced infrastructure. Rimmer questions the investigators' methodology, particularly their 'Herr Professor' approach, and suggests that the book may be deliberately misleading about Meier's background to enhance his mystique. The review concludes with a sarcastic remark about Meier's success.

Letters to the Editor

The 'Letters' section features correspondence from readers. One letter from Peter Rimmer defends the MUFON UFO Journal against criticism from Peter Rogerson, highlighting its quality and contrasting it with Rogerson's 'dinosaurian' label. Another letter from Dennis Stacey, the editor of the MUFON UFO Journal, addresses Rogerson's comments, welcoming moves to broaden the journal's scope. Graham W. Birdsall writes regarding the 'Why Cracoe Fell!' article, asserting its accuracy but noting an error in the map reference. Maurizio Verga writes about his computer UFO network and bulletin board activities.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Magonia consistently demonstrates a critical and analytical approach to UFO phenomena. The editorial stance favors scientific explanations, particularly astronomical mirages, over more speculative or pseudoscientific theories. The magazine actively engages with and critiques prominent figures and books within the ufology community, often highlighting perceived flaws in methodology, evidence, or interpretation. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between well-researched accounts and those that rely on sensationalism or unsubstantiated claims. The 'Letters' section indicates a commitment to open debate, while the book reviews showcase a rigorous evaluation of paranormal and scientific literature.