MUFON New Jersey Chronicle - Vol 02 No 01-2 - 1991 09-12

Magazine Overview

This issue of THE NEW JERSEY CHRONICLE, Volume 2, Numbers 1/2, dated September-December 1991, is published by The Mutual UFO Network, Inc. (MUFON). The magazine covers UFO phenomena with a focus on New Jersey and surrounding areas. This issue is double-sized to compensate for a previous delay and heralds the publication's second year. The cover prominently features an exclusive conference call with UFO researcher Kevin Randle.

Conference Call with Kevin Randle

The issue begins with excerpts from a 30-page telephone conference transcript with Kevin Randle, conducted on August 17, 1991. The transcript, transcribed by R. J. Durant, highlights discussions on the Roswell incident. Randle addresses questions about what he has learned since his book on Roswell was published. He mentions Gerald Anderson's anthropology class with Dr. Buskirk in 1957, which he believes discredits Anderson's account. Randle also discusses the polygraph examination and hypnotic regression of Anderson, noting that the conditions of these tests are unknown. He touches upon the work of Don Schmitt and their investigation into the Roswell case, including the recovery of the craft and bodies.

Randle also addresses the issue of Cavitt's statements, clarifying that while Cavitt may not have heard about the Roswell *crash* specifically, he did not claim to have never heard about flying discs. Randle mentions that new witnesses have come forward since the publication of his book, including a neighbor of the Marcel family who reported a flying saucer sighting.

Regarding the craft's removal, Randle states that the focus was on the bodies, and the craft's status is still under investigation, though it was reportedly intact at the impact site. He discusses theories about how the craft might have been transported, possibly under a tarp and moved at night. He also mentions a story about the craft being buried at Wright Field, though this is unconfirmed.

Randle confirms that some witnesses are still bound by secrecy oaths. He discusses the possibility of a highly classified organization overseeing UFO phenomena, even if not the mythical MJ-12. He believes the government's reluctance to admit to things they can't control is a factor in maintaining secrecy. Randle also discusses the possibility of multiple crashes, citing Kingman, Arizona; Las Vegas; Del Rio; and Kecksburg as other potential crash sites, though not all are necessarily extraterrestrial in origin.

He addresses the F-89 fighter plane disappearances in the 1950s, noting that four planes vanished without a trace, causing concern within the Pentagon. Randle believes that the Roswell incident was a singular event, and he has found no evidence of a second crash site at Magdalena. He also confirms that debris from Roswell was sent to Washington, D.C.

Randle suggests that the Roswell incident's secrecy is maintained because the story is so fantastic that people don't want to believe it. He also posits that the government may not want to admit to something they have no control over. He believes that the abduction phenomena becomes more credible once the existence of extraterrestrial spacecraft is proven.

Randle expresses optimism that their meticulous research, including naming specific individuals like General Exon, can help turn the UFO phenomenon around. He emphasizes the importance of careful, non-fanatical research.

Rectangular UFO Sighted in Southern New Jersey

This section details a sighting that occurred on October 9, 1990, near Medford, New Jersey. The witness observed a strange rectangular object with bright red and white lights and an erratic flight pattern. The drawing of the object was done by Timothy Mark Jones and approved by the witness. The object was described as being four times as long as it was wide, appearing as wide as a dime at arm's length. It was observed for approximately five minutes, moving from right to left and then reversing course. The witness estimated the object to be 500 to 1000 feet away. The investigation was conducted by Timothy Jones, State Section Director for Burlington County, New Jersey.

Blue Book Pearls: Fort Monmouth, New Jersey

Authored by Dr. Willy Smith, this article examines a UFO sighting that occurred on September 10, 1951. Two Air Force officers flying a T-33 trainer jet reported a fast-moving object over Sandy Hook, NJ, descending and flying southwest. The object was described as round and flat, the size of a fighter or light bomber, and silver in color. The official Air Force explanation that it was a balloon is challenged, with the author citing information from Blue Book files that indicates the balloons launched at that time climbed to a much higher altitude. The article notes that the case became public due to a reporter overhearing a conversation.

UFO Cases: Meteors or Mystery?

This section presents several UFO case reports from the PASU DATA EXCHANGE Newsletter. These include:

• January 14, 1991: A commercial pilot near Pittsburgh, PA, reported a bronze-colored rectangular object at 7,000 feet.
• February 4, 1991: Witnesses in Reeders, PA, observed several huge, rectangular objects moving slowly and silently, estimated to be 300 feet long with rows of lights.
• February 28, 1991: Residents in East Stroudsburg, PA, reported a large ball of fire, with some claiming a crash and smoke, but no evidence was found.

These cases are noted for their similarity to other unidentifieds reported in New Jersey.

Investigative Reports

This section continues the report on the rectangular UFO sighted in Medford, New Jersey, on October 9, 1990. It details the witness's observations, including the object's speed, size, and movements. The witness estimated the object to be three times higher than telephone poles and observed it for five minutes. The investigation began on May 11, 1991, at the Moorestown Library, checking weather conditions.

Other Articles and Features

• From the Editor's Desk: The editor recounts a "white out" incident that led to the loss of Volume 2 Number 1 of the Chronicle, requiring a new hard drive. The editor thanks subscribers for their patience and announces the magazine's second year of publication.
• Blue Book Pearls: An article by Dr. Willy Smith details the Fort Monmouth, NJ, sighting from September 10, 1951.
• A Get-Rich-Quick Stamp?: A warning to stamp collectors.
• National Sighting Research Center Update: By Paul Ferrughelli.
• New Information on the Spitzbergen Saucer Crash: By William L. Moore.
• The Book Rack: Reviews of books, including Sidney Sheldon's "The Doomsday Conspiracy" reviewed by Beth Solomon.
• An Inside View: Tom Benson reports on the New Hampshire MUFON Conference.
• Aircraft Lights: An article by Ken Spencer.
• The Lighter Side of UFOlogy: A lighter take on UFO topics.
• What To Do If You See A UFO: Practical advice.
• Upcoming Conferences: A listing of future events.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings, investigations, and the persistent issue of government secrecy and cover-ups. The editorial stance, as expressed in the "Editor's Desk," is one of dedication to pursuing the UFO phenomenon, even in the face of technical difficulties and the need for subscriber support. The magazine aims to provide detailed reports and analysis, encouraging readers to contribute to the push for a Congressional inquiry. There is a clear emphasis on rigorous research, as highlighted by Kevin Randle's approach and the detailed investigative reports. The publication also touches upon the historical context of UFO research, referencing Project Blue Book and earlier cases.

This issue of The Chronicle, dated November 1991, focuses on UFO phenomena, with a prominent cover story detailing a close encounter on Route 78 in Somerset County, New Jersey. The magazine also features historical analyses of UFO data, investigations into alleged crashed UFOs, and discussions on the nature and reporting of UFOs over time.

Close Encounter On Route 78 in Somerset County

The issue details a UFO sighting that occurred on July 20, 1991. The witness, identified as "Steve," was driving on Route 78 near Watchung, NJ, when he observed an object hovering about 50 feet above the ground. The object was described as cake-shaped, approximately 100 feet away, with a length of 75 to 150 feet and a height of 30 to 40 feet. It was grayish/white silvery in color with a dull mat finish and emitted a light around its edges. The encounter lasted about 30 to 60 seconds, during which the object suddenly pulled up and vanished. The witness, initially skeptical, felt both afraid and chosen by the experience but not threatened. No physical, electromagnetic, or altered time effects were reported. An investigation was initiated by Paul Ferrughelli, with initial attempts to interview the witness being canceled due to his work schedule.

Hudson Valley Spook Planes

This section, authored by Robert J. Durant, revisits the 1983-4 Hudson Valley UFO wave, comparing it to the Belgian wave of 1990. The sightings were characterized by huge, boomerang-shaped objects with colored lights, averaging 15 minutes in duration and often witnessed by multiple people. Durant addresses the debunking theory that these were simply pilots flying in formation with brilliant lights, arguing that formation flying, especially at night, is extremely difficult and that the sound of multiple engines would be unmistakable. He also discusses the possibility of military pilots attempting to fake UFOs, mentioning the CIA as a potential suspect. The article includes a response from a friend who was the Commanding Officer of Stewart AFB during the period, who confirms that the 0-2A forward air controller aircraft were used for training sorties but denies any involvement in faking UFOs. He notes that the 0-2A engines were noisy, not muffled, and that they did fly in formation but not typically at night for tactical purposes. The article also touches on the 'psych warfare' use of 0-2s with loudspeakers and the existence of small, maneuverable, muffled aircraft.

UFO DATA: A HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE

Authored by Paul Ferrughelli, this section provides a historical analysis of UFO data, focusing on Project Bluebook and the work of Dr. J. Allen Hynek. Project Bluebook, the government's investigation of 10,147 sightings from 1947 to 1965, reportedly skewed data to emphasize 'insufficient data' and 'hoax' types. Out of 646 'Unknown' sightings, only 12 (0.12%) were classified as true UFO reports after a reduction process. The conclusions of Bluebook attributed UFOs to misinterpretations of natural phenomena, mild mass hysteria, and hoaxes. Dr. Hynek's later evaluation of 13,134 UFO sightings from 1947-1969 found 640 (4.9%) unknowns. The data indicates that 40% of reports were 'insufficient info' or 'other,' and 26% were astronomical explanations. Hynek's analysis suggested that UFO phenomena is a constant, but its reporting and characteristics have changed over time. The article also presents comparisons of UFO sightings by state and by month, noting a shift towards nighttime sightings and close encounters.

New Information On The Spitzbergen Saucer Crash

William L. Moore investigates the persistent rumors of a flying saucer crash on the remote island of Spitzbergen in the Norwegian arctic, dating back to the early 1950s. These stories often conflict and are difficult to trace beyond newspaper accounts and books like Frank Edwards' "Flying Saucers: Serious Business." Moore presents information from a French-language article in "Le Lorrain" (October 15, 1954), which cites a Swiss Territorial Air Defense (D.A.T.) report. This report allegedly confirms the existence of flying saucers, with the first one originating from Prague in 1945. The craft, described as a 'disco-craft' or 'lenticular aerodyne,' was reportedly the work of German engineer Meithe, with similar craft being developed by Habermohl and Schriever. The article suggests these German saucers were designed for reconnaissance, remotely controlled, and equipped with self-destruct mechanisms. It claims that while no remains were recovered from Spitzbergen, debris from similar devices was found in Bavaria and Bornholm. Moore notes that efforts to obtain the original Swiss report have been unsuccessful but considers this account the most authoritative explanation for the Spitzbergen crash rumors to date.

The Book Rack: 'The Doomsday Conspiracy'

This section reviews Sidney Sheldon's thriller "The Doomsday Conspiracy." The novel explores the theory of extraterrestrial visitation and government cover-ups. The reviewer notes that Sheldon, known for more conventional plots, includes an author's note explaining his research into UFO incidents. The plot involves Commander Robert Bellamy tracking down witnesses to a UFO crash in Switzerland. The review highlights that the book suggests the Strategic Defense Initiative (Star Wars) is designed to counter UFOs, not just the Russians. It also mentions references to environmental destruction. Despite some predictability in the plot, the reviewer finds Sheldon's storytelling ability to be a strong point.

A Get-Rich-Quick Stamp?

This article, originally from "Sky & Telescope Magazine," discusses the "Face on Mars" phenomenon and a commemorative sheetlet of stamps issued by Sierra Leone. While some interpret the "Face on Mars" as an alien monument and tout the stamps as an investment, editor Michael Laurence of "Linn's Stamp News" disagrees, calling the set overpriced and manipulated. He received considerable negative feedback for his opinion.

New Hampshire MUFON UFO Conference

Tom Benson reports on the first New Hampshire MUFON UFO Conference, held on September 29, 1991, in Portsmouth. The conference commemorated the 30th anniversary of the Betty and Barney Hill abduction case. Speakers included Peter R. Geremia, Dr. John Brandenburg, Budd Hopkins, Stanton Friedman, and Betty Hill, who gave her last public lecture. The reviewer suggests the conference should be extended to two days for better interaction. The article also highlights Portsmouth as a tourist destination.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores UFO sightings, investigations, and historical data, with a leaning towards presenting detailed accounts and analyses rather than outright debunking. There's a focus on the scientific and investigative aspects of UFO phenomena, including historical government projects like Bluebook and the work of researchers like Dr. Hynek. The magazine also delves into the possibility of advanced, possibly extraterrestrial or secret human technology, as seen in the Spitzbergen crash and the discussion of German flying saucers. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into the UFO phenomenon, presenting various theories and evidence while acknowledging the complexities and ongoing mysteries. The recurring theme is the persistent nature of UFO reports and the evolving characteristics of the phenomena over time, suggesting it is not static but dynamic.

This issue of the COLORADO MUFON NEWS, dated March/April 1991, features an article by Ken Spencer titled "AIRCRAFT LIGHTS" which explores the various lighting systems on conventional aircraft. The content is also available via MUFONET (IEDGE 10.TXT) for computer users with modems. The publication also includes updates on UFO investigations, discussions on advanced technology like airships, and information on upcoming UFO conferences.

Aircraft Lights: A Detailed Examination

Ken Spencer's article breaks down the different types of lights found on aircraft and their functions, aiming to help UFO investigators distinguish between conventional aircraft and potential unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP).

Position or Navigational Lights

These lights, mandated by the FAA, are based on maritime conventions. Facing forward, a pilot sees a green light on the right wingtip, a red light on the left wingtip, and a white light on the tail. These are required for all operations between sunset and sunrise.

Anti-collision Lights

These lights, typically white strobes on wingtips or red flashing/rotating beacons above or below the fuselage, are designed to enhance visibility. They are generally active for all operations, day and night, below 18,000 feet, and remain on at night regardless of altitude.

Landing Lights

Used for illuminating the landing and takeoff area, these lights can be mounted in wing leading edges, on the nose-gear strut, or extend below the wings. They are typically active from takeoff until reaching 18,000 feet, or from 18,000 feet until clearing the runway after landing.

Wing Lights

Mounted in the fuselage and pointed outward, these lights help pilots inspect wing sections or engine nacelles for issues like icing or structural damage, especially during abnormal situations.

Logo Lights

Usually located on the horizontal stabilizer, these lights point towards the vertical stabilizer and illuminate the aircraft's logo. Airlines often require them to be on below 18,000 feet between sunset and sunrise for collision avoidance.

Spencer notes that while these descriptions apply to conventional aircraft, lighting systems can vary based on aircraft type, manufacturer, and operating environment.

Deltoid Update: Airships and Technology

This section revisits an investigative study by Tom Benson on experimental aircraft versus misidentified UFOs, using New Jersey sightings as examples. It references an article from the September 1974 issue of POPULAR MECHANICS, "TODAY'S TECHNOLOGY MAKES IT POSSIBLE FOR THE DIRIGIBLES TO COME BACK BIGGER THAN EVER." The article highlights technical experts like Francis Morse, George J. O'Hara, Vladimar H. Pavlecka, Kurt R. Stehling, and J. Gordon Vaeth, who advocate for the resurgence of rigid airships (dirigibles).

These modern airships are envisioned as passenger-cargo ships, cargo carriers, or military/scientific research vessels. They could potentially utilize nuclear propulsion for unlimited range. Designers suggest envelopes ranging from 12 to 25 million cubic feet (compared to the Hindenburg's 7 million), with lengths around 1000 feet and diameters of 300 feet. Some designs deviate from the traditional cigar shape, resembling outsized whales or having a deltoid configuration, suitable for oceanographic and environmental research.

The Lighter Side of ufology

A humorous cartoon strip titled "ROBOTMAN" poses the question: "If UFOs visit Earth so much, why hasn't everyone seen one?" The answer humorously suggests that UFOs can look like weather balloons, swamp gas, or flocks of geese.

The Information Network & Electronic Bulletin Boards

This section lists various newsletters and information sources from across the country, including numerous MUFON newsletters from different states, CONTACT NOTES, FOCUS-Fair-Witness Project, PASU Data Exchange, SKYWATCH, and The UFO ENIGMA. It also highlights the U.F.O Newsclipping Service for current UFO stories. Contact information is provided for MUFONET-BBS Network and The Frontier BBS (MUFONET) for electronic communication.

What To Do If You See A UFO

This guide provides practical steps for UFO witnesses to make their reports more valuable. Key recommendations include:

• Seeking additional witnesses.
• Taking photographs, including background details.
• Avoiding approaching the UFO due to potential risks.
• Immediately noting the time and making detailed notes, sketches, and recording thoughts and feelings.
• Writing down contact information for other witnesses.
• Not sharing stories with other witnesses until after speaking with an investigator.
• If the UFO touched the ground, documenting the area with photographs.
• The most important instruction is to report the sighting.

Earth Ball

A poignant quote, attributed to an unknown author and sourced from various newsletters, reflects on the Earth's beauty and fragility. The text suggests that if Earth were a small, isolated object, humanity would revere it. It then connects this to the distress of alien visitors regarding Earth's pollution problems, emphasizing that these ecological issues affect them as well and that humanity is close to the end of its known existence. The author urges awareness and action to preserve the planet.

Upcoming UFO Conferences

This section details several upcoming UFO-related events in 1992:

• WINTER UFO FESTIVAL and WINTER DINNER DANCE PARTY: February 1, 1992, at The Days Inn, Bordentown, New Jersey. Featuring guest speaker Robert L. Oechsler, with options for seminar, dinner party, or party only.
• THE 3RD GREAT UFO/ET ALIEN & ABDUCTION CONGRESS: March 20-22, 1992, at The Days Inn, Bordentown, New Jersey. Speakers to be announced.
• MUFON 1992 UFO SYMPOSIUM: THE ULTIMATE MYSTERY OF THE MILLENNIA: July 10-12, 1992, at the Doubletree Hotel, Albuquerque, New Mexico. Confirmed speakers include Stanton T. Friedman, Philippe Plet van Putten, Richard F. Halnes, J. Antonio Huneeus, and Pavel Popovich. Reservations can be made by calling the Doubletree Hotel.

Contact information for Pat J. Marcattillo is provided for the first two events.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the intersection of aviation technology and UFO phenomena, the importance of accurate reporting and investigation, and the potential for advanced technology like airships. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging critical thinking and detailed observation among UFO enthusiasts, while also acknowledging broader concerns such as environmental pollution and the potential for extraterrestrial interest in Earth's well-being. The inclusion of upcoming conferences suggests a commitment to fostering community and sharing information within the UFO field.