Marcen Journal - Vol 2 No 3 - 1979

Magazine Overview

Title: MARCEN JOURNAL
Issue: VOLUME II NUMBER III
Date: 1979
Publisher: MUTUAL ANOMALY RESEARCH CENTER AND EVALUATION NETWORK, INC.
Type: Official Journal of a nonprofit educational and scientific corporation.

Cover Story: UFO Occupants

The cover story, illustrated by artist Al Kenyon, describes the three main types of UFO occupants most frequently encountered, based on composite sketches and witness reports of close encounters of the third kind. These types are:

• Type III: A furry creature, depicted picking up a rock on the left of the cover. These entities are described as two-foot-tall hairy bipeds to more than seven-foot-tall Bigfoot-type monsters. They are reported as being covered with hair (except face, palms, soles), usually clothed, with large pumpkin-shaped heads, broad shoulders, and long arms. They exhibit bipedal locomotion and can be belligerent.
• Type I: Short figures in helmetless space suits, shown on the far right and second from left. These are the most frequently reported, often associated with the 'little green men' myths. They are typically three to four and a half feet tall with disproportionately large heads, wide-set eyes, and skin colorations ranging from pale tan or ashen grey to translucent white, blue, or metallic black. They are not reported as green. They are often seen repairing vehicles or collecting specimens and tend to retreat when encountered, but may use a stun weapon if threatened. They are reported to wear seamless 'wear a seamless "diving suit" of pastel metallic appearing fabrics' and sometimes a transparent helmet.
• Type II: A tall, almost human-looking figure in the center. These entities appear more human, often described as oriental of face with a suntanned appearance, wearing pastel coveralls. They are frequently sighted in daylight and are often associated with UFO abduction cases, sometimes in charge of Type I entities. The article notes that MARCEN has no confirmed encounters with 'Men in Black,' who are sometimes blamed on Type II aliens.

A normal human figure is shown on the far right, observing the scene.

The article clarifies that these are not the only types reported but are the most frequent. It also notes that while all three types are shown together on the cover for artistic simplicity, MARCEN is unaware of any cases where all three have been reported together.

Other Alien Types

• Type IV: Described as bizarre creatures generating nightmares, rarely humanoid, ranging from giant amoebas to glowing and invisible entities. Famous examples include the 'Flatwoods Monster' (West Virginia, 1950s) and the 'Mothman' (Point Pleasant, 1960s), and a 'Bighead' creature (Ohio, 1978).

It is difficult to determine if Type IVs are life forms by classical definition. Type I aliens are most frequently reported in stories of crashed saucers and retrievals. Intelligent types of entities show little hostility, sometimes responding to gestures or flashing lights. They do not seem to pose a serious hostile threat in one-on-one confrontations.

Organization Information

MARCEN (Mutual Anomaly Research Center and Evaluation Network, Inc.) is a nonprofit organization incorporated under Maryland laws, IRS Section 501(c)(3) tax exempt. Its headquarters are located at Box 218, Kensington, Md. 20795, with an address at 13120 Clifton Road, Silver Spring, Md. 20904. The Director is Williard F. McIntyre, Ph.D., and the Assistant Director is Arthur F. Rosen, Sc.D.

Membership is open to those with advanced degrees or training in physical or sociological sciences (Participating membership) or anyone interested in the goals of the Center (Sustaining membership).

MARCEN EDITORIAL: A Call for Cooperation

The editorial announces that for the first time, the journal is not copyrighted. MARCEN believes this is a duty to the field to share information and that copyrighting is a violation of this mandate. The editorial criticizes the 'childish-like jealousy' and 'building personal empires' that have hindered information flow from UFO and Fortean organizations. It calls for surviving organizations to pool resources and cooperate.

MARCEN will no longer copyright its publications, allowing other organizations to reprint material freely with credit. Commercial organizations require permission and agreement not to copyright further. The editorial challenges other organizations to follow suit, stating that hoarding information serves skeptics. MARCEN proposes to act as a clearinghouse, offering its computer facilities for organizations to pool knowledge, though this requires overcoming paranoia. Proposals for handling this clearinghouse role are being drafted and will be sent out by early 1980.

CHANGES AT MARCEN

Several changes are underway at MARCEN to prevent stagnation:

• New Name: The organization has adopted the name MUTUAL ANOMALY RESEARCH CENTER AND EVALUATION NETWORK, INC. to better reflect its functions and interests beyond Maryland.
• Journal Format: The journal will change to a five-and-a-half by eight-and-a-half inch size, expected to save thousands of dollars per issue and improve timeliness.
• Journal Title: The title will change to THE JOURNAL OF THE FORTEANS OF MARCEN, suggested by Professor Robert Spencer Carr, to reflect the Fortean nature of its members.
• Headquarters Move: MARCEN expects to move its headquarters in early 1980.
• Director's Leave: Dr. Williard F. McIntyre plans to take a leave of absence in early 1980 to write a book and work on a funded special project expected to significantly advance knowledge about the UFO phenomenon.
• Publication Frequency: Efforts are being made to publish the journal more frequently, aiming for a monthly schedule.
• Membership Meeting: A general membership meeting was planned for August to generate revenue, but a 1979 meeting was postponed due to late planning and the gasoline situation. More planning is underway for a 1980 meeting.
• Membership Cards & Dues: New membership cards will be mailed in early 1980. Sustaining memberships are extended through 1980 or 14 issues. Future new members may face membership dues.

DAVID NEARLY DROWNS MARCEN

On September 6, 1979, Hurricane David caused severe flooding at MARCEN's underground offices in the Washington, D.C. area. Over two feet of water filled the offices, overwhelming drainage and electricity. The damage is estimated at $15,000, including the total loss of over 90 rolls of U.S. Air Force Project Bluebook microfilm and CIA/FBI UFO Freedom of Information documents. While most paperback books were salvaged, many hardbound books disintegrated. The printing press was also damaged but is back in operation. Plans are underway to replace the lost documents, with the Bluebook microfilm alone costing nearly $1,500.

Despite the flood, MARCEN has largely recovered, with all systems operational except for one computer punched card reader. Photographic equipment was partially lost but arrangements have been made to compensate. New reinforced windows have been installed, and files and books are now stored on elevated steel frames to prevent future water damage. MARCEN has a 1,200 square foot office space equipped with a laboratory for chemical and microscopic analysis, a communications center monitoring various traffic, and sensors for magnetic fields, solar flares, and UFO activity, which can activate movie cameras.

Table of Contents Highlights

• Cover Story: Details the types of UFO occupants (Page 2).
• MARCEN EDITORIAL: Discusses the new non-copyright policy and call for cooperation (Page 5).
• Changes at MARCEN: Outlines organizational and publication changes (Page 6).
• David Nearly Drowns MARCEN: Recounts the flood damage and recovery efforts (Page 7).
• UFO Disinformation: (Page 11)
• Cattle Mutilation and UFO Link: (Page 16)
• UFO Rape Reported in England: (Page 19)
• A Computer Profile of MARCEN Members: (Page 22)
• A Computer Evaluation of 27,640 UFO Reports: (Page 25)
• UFO Discounted by MARCEN: (Page 31)
• UFO Photo Evidence: (Page 37)

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the classification and description of UFO occupants, the operational aspects and organizational changes of MARCEN, and the challenges faced by researchers in the Fortean and UFO fields. The editorial stance is strongly in favor of open information sharing, cooperation among organizations, and a move away from the 'superstar' mentality towards collective knowledge building. MARCEN positions itself as a leader in this movement by adopting a non-copyright policy and offering its resources as a clearinghouse. The issue also highlights the practical difficulties and setbacks encountered by research organizations, as exemplified by the flood damage sustained by MARCEN.

This issue of MARCEN's publication, dated 1979, focuses on the topic of UFO retrievals and the surrounding disinformation. It questions the validity of retrieval stories, explores the potential for government-orchestrated disinformation, and presents data on alleged UFO crash recoveries. The magazine also covers specific incidents, including a cattle mutilation case and a UFO attack on a police officer.

UFO Retrievals

The magazine begins by discussing the shift in UFO stories from 'Close Encounters' to 'Retrievals' in the late 1970s. MARCEN, an organization, debated the merits of pursuing these events, questioning if they were mere legends, elaborate hoaxes, or part of a government plan to prepare the public for a larger announcement. MARCEN started collecting data in May 1979, making phone calls and obtaining recordings from retired military officers. They established a criterion of requiring at least three witnesses with verified military backgrounds for any event to be considered. By the publication date, MARCEN had data on 23 alleged UFO recoveries, with a total of 100 alien bodies recovered. A detailed list of these recoveries is provided, including dates, locations, and the number of bodies found, spanning from July 1947 in Roswell, New Mexico, to May 1978 in Bolivia.

UFO Disinformation

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the theme of UFO disinformation. The article posits that there is more UFO folklore and mythology than in ancient times, and serious ufologists struggle to explain its origin. The repetitive nature of crashed UFO and retrieval stories, often unchanged over decades, is highlighted. MARCEN finds it difficult to accept these tales without tangible proof, despite the credibility of many witnesses. Unresolved questions include how stories become so consistent, how details remain fresh after 30-35 years, and why so many former military personnel are involved. One theory suggests a clandestine government bureau manufactures fictionalized UFO information to discredit the phenomenon. However, MARCEN's review of FBI and CIA documents revealed no evidence of government-generated confusion or cover-ups, but rather considerable government interest in UFOs. The article also details a 1958 hoax involving a letter to George Adamski, purportedly from the State Department, and a more recent flood of hoax letters in the summer of 1979, typed on faked letterheads, claiming special units for UFO retrieval and underground storage at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. These hoaxes, along with slanderous anonymous letters, have led to speculation about the authors and have caused internal accusations within the ufology community.

Analysis of Hoaxes and Credibility

MARCEN analyzes the situation, suggesting that hoax letters and anonymous communications primarily serve to destroy the UFO movement by creating confusion and distrust. The article notes that by late summer 1979, phony Air Force letters stopped, but hoax letters from the Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal (CSICP) began circulating, alleging collaboration with the CIA. MARCEN believes these actions are orchestrated by a well-oiled organization aiming for deliberate deception. The issue also criticizes 'contactees' who claim to meet aliens, stating their unbelievable claims lead the public to view all ufologists as crackpots. Fictionalized stories in some UFO magazines, like the now-bankrupt 'Official UFO,' are also blamed for damaging credibility. Rumors suggest that some UFO skeptics write articles under pseudonyms to create myths and further discredit ufology. MARCEN concludes that while they cannot definitively answer the raised questions, they are pointing out the handicaps in understanding the phenomenon, attributing the success in creating myths to government agencies, oversexed skeptics, or well-meaning individuals seeking personal gain.

Addendum: Project BLUE FOG

An addendum reveals information about a government memo, allegedly from the Air Force and CIA, funding a project named BLUE FOG for years. 'Blue' is reportedly used by the government to designate UFO-related projects. If authentic, this memo suggests an ongoing project to create a smokescreen about UFO information. While some ufologists are quick to claim vindication, MARCEN advises caution and the need for verification.

Why Can't We Collect Scientifically Acceptable UFO Evidence?

This section addresses the lack of hard scientific evidence for UFOs. MARCEN believes the issue is not a lack of technology but a failure to properly utilize existing resources and overcome prejudice from military and scientific communities. Modern radar, like that operated by NASA and the Navy, can detect objects the size of a basketball. However, NORAD computers are programmed to discard radar returns that do not match known aircraft, missiles, or satellites. This policy prevents tracking UFOs effectively, often resulting in sightings being isolated events rather than continuous flight paths. The article suggests that government policies need to change, and a serious hindrance is being in the right place at the right time. MARCEN has developed equipment to respond to magnetic anomalies and microwave radiation. Project Starlight in Texas also uses detection devices. The challenge remains that evidence collected by organizations like MARCEN, which are partial to UFO existence, would be dismissed by skeptics. MARCEN advocates for a totally neutral organization to monitor UFO activity objectively. The benefits of such a project, especially if extraterrestrial craft are involved, could be overwhelming, providing knowledge about their nature and capabilities. Even if UFOs are interdimensional or inter-epochal travelers, the knowledge gained would be significant. MARCEN seeks input from readers for formulating proposals for such a project.

Dr. Marilyn Earley Case

MARCEN members in the Dallas-Fort Worth area received strange phone calls related to Dr. Marilyn Earley. A letter from Dr. Earley, dated May 24, 1979, claims she worked as a technician at the Manned Spaceflight Center in Houston and that on February 18, 1977, early photos from the Viking I spacecraft on Mars clearly showed the wreckage of a saucer-shaped vehicle about 50 meters in diameter, which appeared to have been there for hundreds of years. She states that NASA officials dismissed this as faulty transmissions, which she attributes to stupidity rather than a cover-up. She resigned due to disenchantment with NASA. James Oberg, a UFO writer at NASA Mission Control, points out several inaccuracies in Dr. Earley's claims, including the name change of the space center and the fact that Viking photos were not received in Houston but at JPL in Pasadena. NASA has been unable to verify Dr. Earley's employment or find her maiden name. MARCEN is seeking information about Dr. Earley to either validate or dismiss her claims as another example of UFO disinformation.

Cattle Mutilation & UFO Link?

This section explores the suspected link between thousands of animal mutilations and UFOs. An incident reported by the Alberta Report in mid-June 1979 involves a rancher, Manuel Gomez, finding a dead cow with surgically removed parts on his ranch in Dulce, New Mexico. Trooper Gabriel Valdez investigated, finding round prints and missing calf parts. Howard Burgess, a former nuclear engineer and mutilation investigator, found a heavy concentration of radiation and an oily substance at a site where tracks formed a 'tripod.' Samples of the oily substance and tissue samples mysteriously vanished. Several other incidents of 'tripod' tracks and strange round prints have been reported in New Mexico.

UFO Attacks Policeman

This article, compiled from Associated Press and United Press International dispatches, details an incident on August 27, 1979, where Deputy Sheriff Val Johnson of Marshall County, Minnesota, encountered a belligerent UFO. While on patrol, Johnson saw a bright light, which he investigated. At 2:19 a.m., he called for help, stating something attacked his car. Upon arrival, deputies found the cruiser across the road, and Johnson in a state of confusion. The cruiser sustained significant damage: a shattered windshield with unusual fractures, a smashed headlight, a damaged emergency light, dents on the hood, and bent radio antennas. Johnson suffered severe irritation to his eyes from a bright light. Notably, both Johnson's watch and the cruiser's clock were 14 minutes slow. Investigations found no traces of another vehicle, but the car's debris and skid marks were documented. Puzzling anomalies included four fracture points on the windshield with radial patterns and bent antennas. The sheriff's department and FAA found no aircraft in the area at the time. Johnson's superiors vouched for his veracity.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue consistently highlights the challenges in researching the UFO phenomenon due to disinformation, hoaxes, and a lack of credible scientific evidence. MARCEN's stance appears to be one of cautious skepticism, demanding verifiable evidence and actively seeking to debunk false claims while acknowledging the possibility of genuine unexplained phenomena. The organization is actively investigating alleged retrievals, disinformation campaigns, and unusual incidents, seeking to bring clarity to a puzzling subject. The recurring theme is the struggle to discern truth from fiction in a field plagued by misinformation and sensationalism.

This issue of the magazine, identified by its page number as Page 19, focuses on sensational UFO encounters, particularly the "UFO RAPE REPORTED IN ENGLAND" headline. It delves into accounts of Close Encounters of the Third and Fourth Kind, suggesting a trend towards more human-like alien occupants. The issue also includes a significant statistical analysis of UFO reports and discusses the formation of a new UFO organization.

UFO Rape Reported in England

The lead article details a case from October 1973 in England involving a 37-year-old housewife, referred to as Mrs. Doe. While driving, her car stalled, and she saw a bright light. Upon checking her car, she was grabbed by a six-foot-tall metal robot and fainted. She awoke inside a glowing, disk-like craft on legs. In a circular room, she was spread-eagled on a table, bound by straps, and covered with a light blue blanket. Three men, described as human-like, 5'6" to 5'8" tall, fair-skinned, slim, and wearing light blue uniforms with skull caps and surgical masks, examined her. One man explained telepathically that the robot was a "non-thinking intelligence" used for retrieval. Three six-inch cubes were placed on the table, glowing red, green, and white. During the examination, a knife was used to take a fingernail sample, and a plastic bottle was used for blood. A round object in the examiner's palm glowed, and a pencil-like instrument probed her body. A black rubber suction device was used on her groin. After the examination, one man returned, and after staring at her without emotion, used a pin-like device to paralyze her thigh before raping her. She was then cleaned with a blue sponge-like cloth.

Upon regaining full consciousness, Mrs. Doe found herself on the road beside her car. She drove home and told her husband, and they agreed to keep it a secret. Around Christmas 1973, the couple experienced "Men in Black" harassment, including letters and phone calls warning them to forget the incident, which continued until April 1976. Later, two men dressed in black arrived in a black limousine issuing similar warnings.

Mrs. Doe was not pregnant and had no other physical effects, but was psychologically disturbed. Doctors and psychiatrists suggested she had hallucinated. The article notes similarities to other reported abduction cases, particularly the physical examination procedures resembling those in the Barney and Betty Hill case, though it mentions that three women abducted in Kentucky in 1976 described substantially different beings.

The article also references a previous MARCEN investigation into a case in New England a year prior, where a young man reported being taken aboard a UFO by a beautiful alien female and was seduced and raped. However, Marcen Psychiatrists concluded this witness was suffering from hallucinations due to a traumatic marriage breakup. His probable UFO sighting was seen as a catalyst for his delusions.

Computer Evaluation of UFO Reports

The issue presents a detailed computer statistical analysis of 27,640 UFO reports, conducted by MARCEN. The study aimed to objectively evaluate sightings and eliminate human evaluator prejudice. The analysis categorized reports into balloons, astronomical, aircraft, light phenomenon, birds, clouds/fog/dust, psychological, insufficient information, unknown, and other. The study defined "definite identified" if over two-thirds of characteristics matched, and "probable identified" if over half matched.

The results showed that 26.7% (7,380 reports) were evaluated as unknown, with 22.7% definitely unknown and 4% probably unknown. The breakdown of identified categories included: Balloons (15.3%), Astronomical (19.8%), Aircraft & Rockets (22.6%), Light Phenomena (2.2%), Birds (2.1%), Clouds, Fog, Dust (1.4%), Psychological (2.0%), Unknown (26.7%), and Other (7.9%).

Further analysis categorized observers into excellent, good, questionable, and poor. In direct contradiction to Dr. Condon's statement in the University of Colorado's "Scientific Study of Unidentified Flying Objects" (which suggested unexplained sightings are from poor observers), this study found that more reliable observers (excellent and good) had a higher percentage of unknowns and a lower percentage of insufficient data reports. Conversely, poorly qualified observers made poorer reports with more insufficient information.

The study also addressed the myth that UFO unknowns result from short observation durations. It found that 65.1% of unknowns were sighted for 31 seconds to 30 minutes, but a significant 62.8% of unknown reports indicated durations of one minute to over an hour.

A Chi Square test was applied to compare speed characteristics and numbers of objects in unknown reports versus identified reports. The results indicated a much less than 1% probability that the speeds of the unknowns were statistically the same as known objects, and similarly, a less than 1% probability that the numbers of objects reported in unknown evaluations would be identical to a random sample of identified reports.

UFO Ohio Newest Coalition

This section announces the formation of "UFO Ohio" on June 1, 1979, a coalition of UFO organizations in Ohio aiming to pool resources and manpower. While centered in Ohio, its efforts extend to surrounding states and internationally. UFO Ohio is interested in various strange phenomena, including Bigfoot and astronomical observations. They plan to merge two publications, "The Ohio Sky Watcher" and "Page Research Library News-letter," into a single journal called "UFO OHIO." The organization also offers twice-yearly training courses for field investigators, conducted by the Ohio UFO Investigator's League, covering topics like interviewing techniques, case reports, and technical data.

The initial participating organizations and their directors are listed: Cleveland UFO Society (Lawrence Blazey), Northern Ohio UFO Group (Rick Hilberg), Page Research Library (Dennis Pilichis), Tri-County UFO Study Group (Jim Carnes and James Rastetter), Flying Saucer Investigating Committee (Lawrence Moyers), Para-Humanoid Research (Ron Schaffner), Paranormal Research Organization (Phil Collins), and Cleveland Ufology Project (Earl J. Neff).

The article expresses hope that other organizations will affiliate and acknowledges the potential for internecine friction within the UFO field, but compliments those who have joined the coalition.

Computer Profile of MARCEN Members

This section provides a statistical profile of MARCEN members based on a computer analysis. At the time of the analysis, membership stood at 7010, broken down into 3,856 participating, 2,412 sustaining, and 742 honorary members. The gender breakdown was 5,878 male, 695 female, and 27 unknown sex. Membership also included 410 organizations.

The largest professional group within MARCEN is physicians, with 2,329 MDs. Of these, 2,103 are sustaining members. Psychiatrists (28) and dermatologists (14) are noted as significant categories among participating members.

The analysis found 2,684 members holding doctorates and 4,014 with Masters degrees. The roster of participating members includes a diverse range of professions such as anthropologists, attorneys, astronomers, biologists, computer analysts, engineers, geologists, physicists, professors, pilots, veterinarians, and meteorologists.

Honorary memberships are awarded for substantial contributions to the study of unconventional phenomena or for potential future contributions. Organizational memberships are given to cooperating organizations, schools, libraries, and news organizations.

The average participating member is described as a 42-year-old male with an average of 3 academic degrees above bachelor's. He likely teaches physical sciences, has a military background, and enjoys hobbies like photography, flying, and scuba diving.

MARCEN membership spans all 50 U.S. states and includes members from Canada, Mexico, Spain, Great Britain, France, Morocco, Israel, Yugoslavia, Bulgaria, Poland, Sweden, South Korea, Indonesia, India, West Germany, Switzerland, Japan, New Zealand, Australia, and Austria.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the increasingly detailed and sometimes sensational nature of UFO abduction reports, particularly the unprecedented account of rape. The magazine also emphasizes the importance of rigorous statistical analysis in understanding UFO phenomena, aiming to move beyond anecdotal evidence and subjective interpretations. The formation of UFO Ohio signifies a push for greater cooperation and organization within the UFO research community. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking to validate claims through data and investigation, while also acknowledging the psychological and sociological aspects of these experiences. There is a clear effort to debunk myths, such as the idea that only poor observers report UFOs, through empirical data analysis.

This issue of "UFO DISCOUNTED BY MARCEN" by Dr. Jack Bostrack, published by MARCEN, focuses on the statistical analysis of UFO reports and the investigation of specific cases, alongside a discussion on photographic evidence. The publication date is inferred to be 1979 based on the content of the articles.

Statistical Analysis of UFO Reports

The issue begins with an analysis of UFO descriptions, particularly focusing on reported colors. A Chi Square test was applied to the reported colors of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and compared to identified phenomena. The results showed varying Chi Square values for different colors, with 'White' having a value of 5.92 and 'Green' 6.02, while 'Purple' had a very low value of 0.02. A "glowing light source with no definite color" had a Chi Square value of 3.21. The total Chi Square value for color was 21.23. With 10 degrees of freedom, the Chi Square value for a 5% probability of statistical equivalency was 18.30, and for a 2% probability, it was 21.20. This led to the conclusion that there was just under a 2% probability that the characteristic colors of the unknowns were statistically the same as a random sample of identified objects.

Further Chi Square tests were conducted for other characteristics: shape, duration of observation, number of objects, color, speed, and light brightness. The results consistently indicated a low probability of statistical equivalence between the unknowns and identified phenomena. For shape, the probability was much less than 1%. For duration of observation, it was also much less than 1%. For the number of objects, it was less than 1%. Color showed about a 2% probability of equivalence. Shape again showed much less than 1%. Light brightness indicated about a 1.4% probability. Collectively, the probability that the unknowns could be statistically equivalent to the identifieds was found to be under 1%.

The article concludes that with less than a 1 in 100 chance of statistical equivalence, the vast majority of these reports represent phenomena unknown in conventional science. The authors express confidence in this declaration, although they acknowledge that the nature of these phenomena (extra-terrestrial, extra-dimensional, etc.) remains unknown and requires further study.

An editor's note by MARCEN acknowledges the value of the Chi Square Test as a measuring tool but cautions against viewing it as absolute. It references UFO investigator Alan Hendry's work, suggesting that the test could potentially be misapplied to prove absurd equivalencies, such as a city bus being an Indian Elephant, based on selected parameters.

Investigation of a Cornfield Incident in Lake City, Minnesota

The issue details a field investigation by Dr. Jack Bostrack and Dr. Louis J. Greub into an event that occurred on Sunday, September 16, 1979, on the farm of Mr. Curtis Olson near Lake City, Minnesota. Mr. Olson and his hired man reported noticing two small areas in a cornfield where the plants had been "blown" or "knocked" down. The incident gained media attention, with implications of a possible UFO landing.

The investigators visited the farm on Friday, September 21, 1979. They observed two "blown-down" areas, one oblong and the other crescent-shaped, connected by a narrow, dog-leg "path." Their initial conclusion was that the event occurred some time before discovery, likely due to very moist soil from abundant rainfall and strong gusts of wind, causing the corn plants to lodge or fall over. This was supported by several observations:

1. The corn stalks were not broken or crushed but tipped horizontally.
2. The underground root systems were sometimes brought above ground, similar to uprooted trees.
3. The corn plants in the affected sites were dense, with excessive shading and spindly stalks, indicating a response to reduced light intensities.
4. Many plants exhibited negative geotropic response, growing upwards after being laid down.
5. Adventitious roots were growing from the stem nodes on the lower side, suggesting a few weeks of growth in that position.
6. There was no evidence of burned plants, contrary to some media reports.

The investigators postulated that tiny gusts of wind, possibly like dust devils or miniature whirlwinds, could have caused the lodging, especially given Mr. Olson's contour farming practice which created open spaces for wind to develop.

Further analysis suggested the event might have occurred 4-6 weeks prior to discovery, based on the complete geotropic response and the development of adventitious roots. The investigators ruled out extreme heat as a cause, despite Mr. Olson mentioning charred corn cobs, suggesting this might have been due to corn smut. Tests for radioactive residue using an alpha detector and soil samples analyzed for radioactivity yielded no abnormal results.

Microscopic examination of soil particles showed no fusion or changes in structure that would indicate high temperatures. While the primary explanation was wind and soil conditions, the investigators noted several difficult-to-explain observations:

• A "split" in Area 1 where corn plants were precisely spread apart.
• Dead plants found on either side of this split, which were not broken, crushed, or burned.
• The distinct dog-leg "path" connecting the two areas.
• Large tracks in the soil, possibly from a horse or cow, but made some time prior to the inspection.

Despite these anomalies, the investigators concluded that the "blown-down" sites likely resulted from wind gusts, aided by wet soil and the corn's growth characteristics. They also noted the possibility of root system weakening by root worms, though it was too late in the season to confirm this.

UFO Photo Evidence

The issue also addresses the topic of UFO photographic evidence. It highlights the common belief that authentic UFO photos would be strong evidence, but notes that the vast majority of produced photos have been discarded as hoaxes or misidentifications.

Authenticating UFO photos is presented as difficult due to the ease of fabrication and the challenge of definitively ruling out conventional objects or views. Photographic evidence gains value when known natural phenomena are ruled out and fabrication is shown to be difficult or inconvenient. However, the sophistication of modern photographic techniques makes it almost impossible to totally exclude fabrication.

MARCEN emphasizes the importance of matching witness testimony with the photographic content. Minor discrepancies due to witness excitement are acceptable, but major discrepancies detract from authenticity.

Computer enhancement, a technique involving digitizing photos into numerical pulses, is discussed as a method to analyze UFO images. While it can reveal fabrications, MARCEN is currently unwilling to accept its results as definitive, pending further experience and acquisition of their own equipment.

The article notes that the quality of photographic data is often low, with many photos being blurred, poorly processed, or lacking essential context. The scarcity of multiple photos for a single report limits the application of photogrammetric techniques.

Despite these challenges, the article states that a number of UFO photographs have withstood rigorous analysis and site examinations, balancing the claims of skeptics.

MARCEN announces its intention to present the most widely accepted UFO photos in this and future issues, stating that these photos are either universally accepted or have evidence against them that is not incontrovertible.

An example is given of a publicity release photograph of a B-57 bomber taken by McDonnel Douglas Aircraft Corporation in the mid-1950s. This image, which appeared to be a classic disk shape about 30 feet in diameter with a reflective surface and evidence of atmospheric turbulence, was thoroughly investigated and found to have no evidence of fabrication. The sensitivity of the company involved makes fabrication unlikely.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the rigorous, often statistical, analysis of UFO phenomena and the critical examination of evidence. MARCEN's stance is one of cautious skepticism, emphasizing objective investigation and the need for verifiable data. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained phenomena, the publication prioritizes debunking conventional explanations before accepting more extraordinary ones. The focus on statistical methods like the Chi Square test highlights a scientific approach to the subject matter, while the discussion on photo authentication underscores the challenges in obtaining and verifying evidence in the field of UFOlogy.

This issue of UFO Information Network, identified as Volume II, Issue 39, published in March 1954, focuses on photographic evidence and analysis of UFO sightings. The cover features a blurry image of a UFO and the logo of the UFO Information Network, based in Rome, Ohio.

Key Articles and Features

The Trent Photos and Skeptical Analysis

The primary focus of the issue is the analysis of UFO photographs, particularly those taken by Mr. and Mrs. Paul Trent near McMinnville, Oregon, on May 11, 1950. The article presents these as high-power blowups of the UFO image. The Trents claim they took the photos just after sunset, with the second image showing an elliptical bottom view as the UFO moved away. However, UFO skeptic Robert Sheaffer of Silver Spring, Maryland, analyzed the shadows and concluded the photos were taken closer to dawn, suggesting they might be a hoax. In contrast, physicist and photogrammetrist Dr. Bruce Maccabee calls the photos authentic, as does a computer enhancement study by William Spaulding of Ground Saucer Watch. Dr. William Hartmann of the University of Arizona, who analyzed photos for the Condon Scientific Study of UFOs, was impressed and labeled them as pictures of an unknown phenomenon.

The French Air Marshall Photograph

To further support the credibility of the Trent photos, the issue reproduces a photograph taken by a French Air Marshall over Rouen, France, in March 1954.

The Rex Heflin Photographs

The issue also details the controversial series of UFO photos taken by Santa Ana, California Highway Inspector Rex Heflin on August 2, 1965. Heflin was driving near the El Toro Marine Base when he saw what he initially thought was a new experimental aircraft. He took the photos with a Polaroid camera through the windshield of his pickup truck. The article notes that the original prints were lost after Heflin claimed a uniformed man, identifying himself as an Air Force officer, demanded them. Fortunately, duplicates existed. Dr. William Hartmann was able to duplicate similar photos by hanging a camera lens cap from a thread. William Spaulding's computer enhancement of the Heflin photos revealed a wire or thread going vertically from the UFO, while an enhancement by Dr. Robert Nathan at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory did not reveal anything unusual.

Socorro Landing Evidence

A photograph of physical evidence left at the site of a UFO landing in Socorro, New Mexico, is presented. This landing was previously reported in MARCEN JOURNAL Vol. II No. 1. The photo shows one of four depressions left by the UFO's 'landing gear', surrounded by rocks piled by police for protection.

Project Blue Book Special Report No. 14

Pages 48-50 are dedicated to promoting and offering a reprint of the "AIR FORCE PROJECT BLUE BOOK SPECIAL REPORT NO.14." The advertisement highlights that the book is a complete reprint of the original report, including its text, analysis by Dr. Davidson, and other related documents. It emphasizes Dr. Davidson's work in exposing fallacies in the Air Force's position and the CIA's control over Project Blue Book. The book is available from BLUE-BOOK PUBLISHERS in White Plains, New York, with a money-back guarantee.

Advertising and Services

The issue includes several advertisements for UFO-related services and publications:

• UFO INFORMATION NETWORK Book Publication Distributors: Located in Rome, Ohio, they offer a wide selection of UFO material, including a visual UFO catalog, the PAGE RESEARCH LIBRARY NEWSLETTER, and a special report on 'UFOS AND OTHER CRAFT'. A special package deal is offered for $2.00.
• UFO NEWSCLIPPING SERVICE: Operated by Lucius Farish in Plumerville, Arkansas, this service provides monthly 20-page reports of UFO sightings from around the world, compiled from international press clippings. Subscription information is available.
• THE NEW ATLANTEAN JOURNAL: This quarterly magazine, published in St. Petersburg, Florida, covers the 'UNKNOWN, the UNEXPLAINED, and the UNEXPLORED'. A special offer provides 3 back issues and a 1-year subscription for $7.
• Gnostica: This magazine, published six times a year, focuses on 'Esoteric Knowledge for the New Age', covering topics like Qabalah, Tantra, Magick, and Parapsychology. It is available via subscription from St. Paul, Minnesota.
• U.F.O. DETECTOR!: Advertisements on pages 41 and 45 offer instructions for building a genuine electromagnetic UFO detector for $3.00.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO Information Network strongly advocates for the serious study of UFO phenomena, presenting photographic evidence and encouraging readers to form their own conclusions. While it includes analyses from skeptics, the overall tone leans towards validating the existence of unexplained aerial phenomena. The publication actively promotes resources for further research, including books, newsletters, and clipping services, positioning itself as a central hub for UFO enthusiasts. The emphasis on detailed analysis of photographic evidence and the promotion of specific reports like Project Blue Book Special Report No. 14 suggest a commitment to providing in-depth information to its readership.

This issue of the MARCEN JOURNAL, published by the Maryland Center for Investigation of Unconventional Phenomena, Inc., focuses on promoting a subscription to 'Second Look' magazine. The cover prominently features the headline: "HOW COULD A PRIMITIVE AFRICAN TRIBE HAVE KNOWN FOR CENTURIES ABOUT A STAR SYSTEM WHICH IS INVISIBLE TO THE NAKED EYE?"

The text explains that the Dogon tribe in Africa worships beings they claim came from the Sirius star system. It highlights that, without telescopes, the Dogon priests apparently knew for hundreds of years about the orbit of a white dwarf star in the remote Sirius system. This leads to the question of whether beings from the Sirius system visited Earth 5000 years ago.

The Sirius Mystery and Robert K. G. Temple

The article introduces Robert K. G. Temple, a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society in England, who spent years researching the Dogon priests' knowledge. His work is described as revealing "one of the most amazing and exciting stories in the history of mankind."

Readers are invited to discover this story and the thrill of uncovering the "Sirius mystery."

Subscription Offer for Second Look Magazine

A "SPECIAL CHARTER SUBSCRIPTION OFFER AND GUARANTEE" is presented for 'Second Look' magazine. The regular subscription rate is $20 per year. However, special charter subscribers can get twelve monthly issues for $15 per year, a saving of $5.

Offer Details:

• One-year charter subscription: $15 (saves $5 off the regular price).
• With one-year subscription: An additional $1.95 includes postage and handling for a copy of 'The Sirius Mystery' by Robert K. G. Temple. (Limit one book per customer).
• Two-year charter subscription: $27 (saves $13 off the regular price). This includes a FREE, postpaid copy of 'The Sirius Mystery'. The book is yours to keep even if the subscription is canceled.

'Second Look' magazine is described as bringing "provocative articles by the world's leading authorities on astronomy, ancient history, psychology, philosophy of science and other disciplines." It is aimed at individuals with an "inquisitive mind, a rational viewpoint, and intolerance for easy answers."

Nature magazine is quoted as calling 'The Sirius Mystery' book "a fascinating book...to be taken seriously."

An order form is included for readers to subscribe and take advantage of these offers. Payment can be made by check or Master Charge. Additional charges apply for Canadian and foreign subscriptions.

Publisher Information

The back cover identifies the publisher as the "Maryland Center for Investigation of Unconventional Phenomena, Inc.," located at 13120 Clifton Road, Silver Spring, MD 20904. It is noted as a "Nonprofit Organization" with U.S. Postage PAID permit #3339 from Silver Spring, MD.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme is the unexplained ancient knowledge of the Dogon tribe concerning the Sirius star system, framed as a profound mystery possibly linked to extraterrestrial contact. The editorial stance is one that encourages curiosity, rational inquiry, and a willingness to explore unconventional ideas, as promoted by 'Second Look' magazine and the MARCEN JOURNAL itself. The issue serves as a promotional piece for 'Second Look' and Robert K. G. Temple's book, aligning with the center's focus on unconventional phenomena.