visitorsv1n20808

Magazine Overview

This issue of "visitors," the newsletter of Illinois MUFONNFP, Inc., published in August 2008, features Richard Dolan, author of "UFOs and the National Security State," as the keynote speaker at the UFO Symposium 2. The magazine also includes articles on photography for field investigators and a discussion on the Roswell incident and government secrecy.

DOLAN SPEAKS AT UFO SYMPOSIUM

Scott Waldyn reports on Richard Dolan's presentation at the UFO Symposium 2, held at the Holiday Inn Convention Center in Tinley Park. Dolan, a historian and author, delivered a three-part lecture titled "The Challenges of UFO Disclosure." He discussed the importance of UFOs, the political and historical secrecy surrounding the topic, and his personal views on the nature of UFOs. Dolan stated that his initial interest in UFOs stemmed from a question about whether it was a valid topic of history and if national security leadership was interested in it. He approached the subject from a societal and historical perspective rather than a purely scientific one. Dolan found his research into UFOs to be "mind-blowing" and that his book has been generally well-received by the ufology community, though mainstream media has largely ignored his work. He highlighted the media's tendency to treat UFOs as a scientific anomaly rather than investigating potential government cover-ups. Dolan also commented on the rapid societal and technological changes of the past century, suggesting that such changes could lead to a future with open acknowledgment of extraterrestrial presence.

CAN THE MILITARY KEEP A SECRET?

John B. Ringer, Historical Anomalist, addresses the common argument that the military cannot keep secrets. Ringer admits that his own experience in the Army in the mid-50s led him to believe in the Army's inefficiency. However, his research into UFOs, particularly books on Roswell, has changed his perspective. He now believes the government is capable of keeping secrets, especially when employing ruthless tactics. Ringer notes that the Roswell incident involved the government appealing to patriotism and instilling fear, even threatening citizens and children. He references "Witness to Roswell" by Thomas J. Carey and Donald R. Schmitt as a key source for understanding the enforced secrecy surrounding the event.

The article also provides additional details from the book "Witness to Roswell," including accounts of rancher Mack Brazel finding the debris, the military's efforts to silence him, and the experiences of other witnesses like Joseph 'Little Joe' Montoya. It details the involvement of PFC Rolland Menagh guarding the crash site, Staff Sergeant Earl Fulford in cleaning up the debris field, PFC Eli Benjamin guarding gurneys with bodies, and Dr. Lejeune Foster examining spinal structures. These accounts emphasize the extreme measures taken to maintain secrecy, including threats of death and loss of livelihood.

Heavy-handed secrecy about World War II

This section introduces Henry Stevens' new book, "Hitler's Suppressed and Still-Secret Weapons, Science and Technology." Stevens attributes numerous technological advancements to the Nazis, particularly the 'Kammler Group' and the SS, during the 1930s and 1940s. These advancements allegedly included digital computers, flying discs, liquid air, atomic weapons, and even experiments in time distortion. Stevens criticizes the National Archives for hindering his research through what he describes as a "de facto reclassification project" and a policy of "secrecy, pure and simple."

Nick Cook, an aviation expert, is discussed in relation to his research on zero point gravity. Cook believes that when America appropriated German technology and personnel after World War II, it gained more than just recognizable technology like the V-2 rockets. He suggests that the unconventional science pursued by the SS, particularly by the 'Kammlerstab' (Dr. Kammler's group), was transported to the US, creating a "state within a state" that influenced American black projects. The article posits that this transfer of knowledge led to an exponential acceleration of America's technological lead.

Bonnie Henderson's book, "UFOs: Out of the Black," is also mentioned. Henderson suggests that most UFO sightings can be explained by secret, experimental government aircraft, such as the hypersonic reconnaissance craft "Aurora." The article criticizes the secrecy surrounding these black projects, funded by billions of taxpayer dollars without public scrutiny or congressional oversight. Henderson argues that such secrecy, driven by "National Security," has led to deceit, cover-ups, and disinformation.

PHOTOGRAPHY FOR THE FIELD INVESTIGATOR (PART ONE): DIGITAL VS. FILM

By Frank Coffman, MUFON Field Investigator, Editor, this article begins a two-part series comparing digital and film photography for UFO field investigators.

Digital vs. Film - Preliminaries

The article notes the significant shift from traditional film to digital photography in the new millennium. It traces the history of photographic image creation from early chemical processes on stone and metal, to glass plates, and then to celluloid film invented by George Eastman. The invention of the Polaroid camera, which allowed for instant positive images, is also mentioned as a mid-century innovation.

Digital Photography - Advantages

Coffman lists several advantages of digital cameras: decreasing costs, no ongoing cost for film and processing, the ability to take a vast number of photos limited only by memory, reduced chance of missing shots due to continuous shooting capability, and better performance in low light conditions, often negating the need for flash. Digital images can also be enhanced post-capture through computer adjustments. Furthermore, modern digital cameras can be modified to take infrared photos, which could be useful for ufological studies.

Digital Photography - Disadvantages

Despite the advantages, digital photography has drawbacks. Lower-end digital cameras may not match the image clarity of better film cameras, and digital images cannot be enlarged as much as well-exposed 35mm negatives or slides. "Pixilization" can occur when digital images are enlarged too much. The ease with which digital images can be manipulated (colors changed, images distorted, added to, or subtracted from) raises significant skepticism and makes them susceptible to claims of being "doctored photos."

Film Photography - Disadvantages

The disadvantages of film photography include the significant cost of purchasing, developing, and printing, which can lead to a tendency to "save film/save shots," potentially missing important images. The number of photos that can be taken in quick succession is limited by film capacity, and reloading can cause delays. Film is also less reactive in low light, and faster films (higher ISOs) tend to produce grainier images upon enlargement. While large format cameras produce high-quality negatives, they are impractical for field work. Film processing can be prone to contamination by dust or particles, leading to irregularities in the final image.

Film Photography - Advantages

Advantages of film photography include simpler operation for "point and shoot" models and more sophisticated cameras alike, with fewer "bells and whistles." Many people have a comfort level with film due to its long history. Film is not as reactive as digital to available light. The development of film across an entire roll is uniform, though control over individual frames is lost. The article notes that film cameras can provide superior results in manual mode, with greater control over focus, shutter speed, and lens aperture. Lenses available for film photography are considered superior to those for digital, and film cameras can achieve extremely small apertures (f32 or f44), allowing for great depth of field and sharpness. Crucially, film negatives are much more difficult to alter than digital images, reducing the potential for skeptical reception. Double exposures and manipulations during printing are detectable by experts.

The author concludes by advocating for a "Complete Field Investigator Photography Kit" that includes at least two digital cameras (one pocket/purse size and one more sophisticated SLR) and at least two, possibly three, film cameras (including a 35mm SLR and a middle format camera using 120/220 film). He stresses that at least some individuals in a local MUFON area should have access to middle format equipment.

Next Time in Part Two:

The next installment will provide examples of cameras, suggestions for good options, lenses, filters, and comments on film types (slide vs. print, color vs. black & white), and peripheral photography gear.

"NORTHERN LIGHTS": UFOS FROM A MICHIGAN PERSPECTIVE

Bill Murphy, Staff Writer, introduces himself and his contributions to the "visitors" newsletter. He expresses his excitement about contributing original content rather than just rehashed news from other sources. Murphy shares his background, growing up in Lansing, Michigan, his education at Michigan State University and the University of Michigan, and how he and his wife Linda became involved with MUFON, eventually serving as Co-State Directors for Michigan. He mentions his past interest in UFOs, sparked by Edward Ruppelt's "The Report on Unidentified Flying Objects." Murphy notes that his new work opportunities required him to step down from leadership roles, but his interest in ufology has accelerated again. He writes a column for the Michigan MUFON Newsletter, is part of the MUFON History Project, and he and Linda are Research Associates and Field Investigators.

Murphy also mentions his association with Katharina Wilson's website and the J. Allen Hynek Center for UFO Studies. He encourages readers to seek out and share information about ufology, emphasizing that individual contributions are valuable.

MAKING THE CASE FOR UFOLOGY: ABSTRACT

This is an abstract of Bill Murphy's symposium talk. Murphy aims to counter the perception of ufology as a chaotic field filled with amateurs. He argues that debunkers' own words and actions reveal that ufology and Science share similar problems. With thirty years of experience in academia and technology, Murphy will draw parallels between these fields and the study of UFOs, asserting that ufology is a serious discipline deserving of respect. He believes mainstream Science may be ill-equipped to deal with evidence of extraordinary intervention. Murphy's presentation will suggest ways to present the case for ufology to a wider audience, highlighting the work of researchers like Stanton Friedman, Donald Schmitt, Ted Phillips, and Sam Maranto.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the ongoing investigation into UFO phenomena, the challenges of disclosure, and the role of government secrecy. The magazine strongly advocates for the scientific investigation of UFOs, as evidenced by its affiliation with MUFON and the detailed discussions on photography for field investigators. There is a clear stance that ufology is a serious discipline deserving of respect and that evidence should be rigorously collected and analyzed. The articles also highlight the importance of historical research and the potential for uncovering suppressed information, particularly concerning government actions and advanced technologies. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, critical analysis of official narratives, and a belief in the significance of the UFO phenomenon.

This issue of the "Newsletter of Illinois MUFONNFP" from August 2008, Volume 2, Issue 2, focuses on the theme of "Convergence" in the field of extraterrestrial intelligence. It presents a blend of speculative predictions, scientific findings, a book review, and a specific UFO case report, alongside organizational news and upcoming events.

Convergence: Four Trends in Extraterrestrial Intelligence

Guy Richards, MUFON Field Investigator, outlines four key trends he sees converging in the study of "Extra-terrestrial Intelligence":

1. Improved Organization and Impact: MUFON and similar organizations are becoming better organized, making a greater impact on public opinion, and employing more scientific and analytical approaches. Sightings are being compiled into an organized, accessible global database.
2. Exoplanet Discoveries: The search for planets outside our solar system has yielded hundreds of discoveries, with several candidates for Earth-type planets (3-5 Earth masses) under study. The concept of the habitable "Goldilocks Zone" around stars, including red dwarfs, is now well-established, expanding the possibilities for extraterrestrial life.
3. Potential for Life on Mars: The Phoenix Mars lander has apparently landed on a subsurface ice layer. Sampling this ice could reveal organic materials, indicating the presence of life-supporting liquid water. The discovery of even primitive life on Mars would challenge Earth-centric views of life in the universe.
4. Prevalence of Organic Molecules in Space: A recent UK study of the Murchison meteorite (1969) found two types of ring-shaped molecules containing carbon that are chemically related to Earth's RNA and DNA. This suggests that the fundamental building blocks of life may be common in outer space.

Richards then offers five predictions based on these converging trends:

1. 2010: Planet hunters will find an Earth-type planet with clear evidence of life.
2. 2008 (end of year): Mars Phoenix lander will find evidence of organic life on Mars, though acceptance may be delayed.
3. 2011: Meteorite analysis will provide evidence of organic molecules supporting the "Pan-spermia" theory (life originating elsewhere and falling to Earth).
4. 2010: MUFON will obtain unequivocal photographic evidence of an extra-terrestrial craft.
5. 2012: The government will acknowledge ETs, with the President introducing an Ambassador from the Pliades.

Richards concludes that scientists are increasingly accepting the idea of widespread life in the universe, which will soften the impact of any future public announcement of intelligent extraterrestrial life.

From the Files: V-Shaped UFO Over Chicago

This section details a specific UFO sighting (Case No. 11161) that occurred on June 12th, 2008, in Chicago. A CTA bus driver reported seeing a bright white light that appeared stationary, then moved eastward. She described it as a V-shaped object with a solid stripe of white light down its sides. The lights later changed from white to brilliant green. The object appeared larger than an airplane and was observed at a distance of less than one thousand feet. The case was investigated and classified as "unknown."

Book Review: Anatomy of a Phenomenon

Bill Murphy, Staff Writer, reviews Jacques Vallee's 1965 book, "Anatomy of a Phenomenon: Unidentified Objects in Space - A Scientific Appraisal." The review highlights Vallee's effort to legitimize the scientific study of UFO phenomena, arguing that anomalous data should not be discarded due to preconceptions. Vallee's work traces UFO reports back centuries before Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting and proposes specific scientific research strategies.

The review notes Vallee's criticisms of the notion that public UFO rumors are a release of psychological tension, citing a lack of correlation with science fiction interest. Vallee applies the "Principle of Least Effort" to explain both uncritical acceptance and debunking reactions to UFO reports. He criticizes the provinciality of many US-based UFO studies and suggests that descriptions by French witnesses are generally more detailed.

Vallee's "The Scientific Problem" chapter is praised for addressing the lack of physical evidence of crashed UFOs and the tendency of scientists to downplay witness observations. Vallee suggests that extraterrestrials have likely solved "all problems of hardware reliability."
The review also touches on Vallee's view that human actions are based on imagination, belief, and faith, not just objective observation. Vallee argues that mental processes opposing the extraterrestrial hypothesis today are similar to those used against Copernicus, Kepler, and Galileo. He advocates for a "generalist-analyst" approach to studying UFO reports over a "specialist" one.

Vallee critiques the emotional reaction of scientists to the UFO problem and accuses them of neglecting scientific honesty. He finds flaws in SETI-like programs that rely on assumptions about radio signals and space travel. Vallee also points out that what constitutes a scientific subject is not its nature but how it is treated.

The review mentions Vallee's later work, "Passport to Magonia," where he lends more weight to reports inconsistent with a simplistic extraterrestrial exploration model. The reviewer agrees that UFO phenomena are related in their strangeness and "paranormality" but disagrees that they must have a single, unitary explanation, suggesting multiple causes.

Vallee is credited with laying the groundwork for an open-minded, scientific approach to ufology and challenging skeptics. The reviewer recommends acquiring the book for anyone with a serious interest in UFO phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently promotes the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena and the potential for extraterrestrial life. It highlights the efforts of organizations like MUFON to bring a more rigorous approach to the subject. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging the public to consider the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence while advocating for evidence-based research. The "Convergence" article and the review of Vallee's book both emphasize the growing scientific acceptance and investigation of UFO-related topics. The "From the Files" section provides a concrete example of a recent sighting, while the "Coming Events" section promotes ongoing engagement and discussion within the ufology community.