New Ufologist - No 3

Magazine Overview

Title: The new Ufologist
Issue: 3
Publication Date: 1995
Publisher: The New UFOlogist
Country of Publication: England
ISSN: 1358-3174
Price: £2.50

This issue of The New Ufologist delves deeply into the preservation and archiving of UFO research, with a significant focus on the work of Anders Liljegren and the Archives for UFO Research (AFU) in Sweden. The cover prominently features headlines such as "Swedish UFO Research," "Archives for UFO Research," and a provocative question, "MASS HYSTERIA could it be the solution."

Archives for UFO Research: Personal recollections of preserving the history of UFO's and UFO research by Anders Liljegren

The lead article by Anders Liljegren, a programmer and systems analyst active in Swedish UFOlogy since 1969, details his personal involvement with the AFU project since its inception twenty-two years prior. Liljegren highlights that AFU has become one of the world's largest repositories for UFO data, financed by sponsors rather than membership fees. He notes that AFU is one of the few UFO resource and research centers globally with daily opening hours and full-time staff, suggesting it could serve as a model for similar archives.

The article traces the origins of AFU back to 1973, when it began as "Arbetsgruppen fer ufologi" (The Study group for Ufology), formed by three individuals who left a larger group due to ideological differences. Their aim was to foster a more intellectual research climate based on the scientific method, separating UFO research from occult and contactee philosophies. This approach, which they termed "ifology" (implying objects were proven to be interplanetary), contrasted with the public opinion-making and political maneuvering of groups like UFO-Sweden.

Liljegren recounts the early days of AFU, starting with a small lending library in Kjell Jonsson's apartment in 1975, which grew significantly over the years. He mentions the donation of a substantial collection by Stockholm ufologist Lennart Johansson and the creation of a 144-page bibliography of Swedish UFO literature by Kjell Jonsson in 1977.

Liljegren's personal interest in UFOs resurfaced in 1976, leading him to edit the AFU Newsletter. He focused on archival material, including Swedish government files on the 1930s ghost flier wave and the 1946 ghost rockets wave.

Phase two of AFU's development saw the library move to Norrkoping and transform into a foundation. The acronym AFU was redefined as "Arkivet for UFO-forskning" (Archives for UFO research). This period also saw an increase in donated materials and international contacts, making the collection of serial publications extensive.

The article highlights the donation of K. Gosta Rehn's extensive correspondence, which provided unique insights into the work of APRO headquarters. It also mentions the GICOFF archives, a significant UFO research group in Sweden that disbanded in 1978, with their files being deposited with AFU. Another notable acquisition was a collection of UFO books and magazines from C.O. Holmqvist. A specialized UFO classification system, "Ufocode," was developed during this phase.

Phase three, starting in the mid-1980s, focused on information technology (IT), with the acquisition of a new photocopier and IBM-compatible computers to manage the growing archives and databases. The ScanCat report file, based on Swedish government files of the 1946 ghost rocket cases, became a significant project.

Phase four involved finding larger premises for the expanding archive. In 1993, AFU moved to a new, larger location in Norrkoping, which improved the working environment. The issue of funding became more critical with increased costs, leading to the establishment of a sponsor pool in 1993.

Liljegren also discusses the Parthenon collection, donated after the death of publisher Edith Nicolaisen, which includes extensive contactee literature. He mentions the acquisition of the David Clarke airship collection and the Mandagsgruppen tape collection. AFU actively seeks monetary and material support from international sponsors.

Full time "ALU" staff

The magazine details the use of the Swedish government's "ALU" scheme, which provides temporary jobs for unemployed individuals. AFU has utilized this program to employ people for tasks such as sorting and copying clippings, editorial work, case investigations, and data entry into the ScanCat database. This initiative has significantly aided AFU in processing its vast collection.

Organization of "popular archives"

AFU's work in documenting ufology as a social movement has gained recognition among archivists in Sweden. The organization benefits from a steady flow of surplus archive material from local government archives, reducing costs. AFU also received a grant from the Swedish National Archives for work materials.

Skepticism not popular

The article notes that AFU has actively promoted a more critical and skeptical approach to ufology, aiming to guide mainstream ufology onto more rigorous tracks. This stance is reflected in their publications and collaborations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly emphasizes the importance of systematic archiving and the preservation of historical UFO data. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous, fact-based research, critical analysis, and a move away from speculative or occult interpretations of the UFO phenomenon. The magazine champions the scientific method and the meticulous collection and organization of evidence. There's a clear dedication to making information accessible to researchers while maintaining a high standard of academic integrity. The recurring theme is the immense value of historical records and the ongoing effort to safeguard them for future study.

This issue of The New UFOlogist, Issue 3, features a prominent cover story titled "WHY TODMORDEN?" by Anne Silk, which focuses on the Rossendale Valley as an area with a high incidence of UFO and anomalous events. The magazine also includes book reviews, discussions on the establishment of UFO archives, and minutes from the first meeting of the Editorial Board.

Main Articles

Why Todmorden?

Anne Silk's article explores the potential reasons behind the high incidence of UFO and anomalous events in the Todmorden and Rossendale Valley area. She posits that these phenomena are linked to geological factors, specifically the interaction of natural electromagnetic fields (from seismic activity, fault lines, and underground rock interfaces) with artificial fields (from radio frequencies, electrical power, and man-made alterations to the landscape like quarries and reservoirs). These intermodulations, where different field types mix and interact, are believed to produce spectacular effects in the atmosphere and the human brain. The article references Jenny Randles' work, noting that while she states there are few earthquakes in the country, the British Geological Survey lists minor seismic events. Silk emphasizes that deep movements in the Earth's crust can generate intense electromagnetic fields, ELF fields, radio waves, and microwaves. The presence of quarries and reservoirs is highlighted as destabilizing geological equilibrium, leading to subsidence and uplift, which in turn can produce phenomena like 'earthlights' or 'orange ball-of-light'. The article also discusses the role of gas extrusion from underground movements and the specific geological makeup of the Rossendale anticline, noting the unusual properties of quartz. It further examines the effects of electromagnetic frequencies on the human brain, citing examples of 'sense of presence' and emotional shifts induced by ELF fields. The article concludes by suggesting a redefinition of UFO as 'Unknown Frequencies Overhead' to link radiated energies with systemic effects.

AFU: Prescription for Success

This section outlines the philosophy and practical steps for establishing and running a successful UFO research archive, exemplified by the AFU (Archives for UFO research). It emphasizes the importance of a dedicated group, a distinct location for the collection, operating as a self-owning institution, and developing a sponsorship system independent of membership circuits. The AFU aims to be a recognized institution for students and researchers, maintaining a relatively low profile to avoid attracting transient interest. The article details the AFU's extensive collection, including books, report archives, and magazines, and offers surplus materials for exchange or sale. It also invites donations and deposits of UFO-related collections worldwide.

Book Reviews

• Reuben Stone, UFO Investigation (Blitz): Reviewed by N. Nixon, this book is described as a comprehensive and accessible history of UFOlogy, particularly useful for those new to the subject. While it may not offer much new to experienced buffs, it covers important angles in a crisp way and includes obscure names and historical context.
• Jimmy Goddard, Earth people Space People: Also reviewed by N. Nixon, this book is part of a project by the Star Fellowship aiming to raise public awareness of UFO-related items. It focuses on the 'contactee' variety of UFOlogy, reminiscent of early figures like Adamski. The review notes its engaging narrative and accessibility, though it might not find broad acceptance in the current climate.
• Alan Watts, UFO Quest: Reviewed by N. Nixon, this book is praised for its well-argued and sincere attempt to reclaim UFOlogy for belief systems of the past. It is noted for its ability to explain scientific principles that deter young people from the subject and for its engaging narrative, leaving the reviewer wishing it had been longer.
• Jenny Randles, Star Children: Reviewed by N. Nixon, this book is described as a courageous and honest exploration of the abduction experience from the inside. Randles' personal experiences with abduction are highlighted, and the book is commended for pushing the frontiers of knowledge in this area, despite the potential for controversy.

Extract from the Bulletin of British Earthquakes 1989

This section provides a table listing earthquakes recorded in the UK in 1989, including their location, date, magnitude, and depth. It notes that the largest earthquake in the UK in 1991/92 was at Peterborough, measuring 3.4. It also mentions an earthquake of 2.7 magnitude recorded in Oakenclough, Lancs, on November 8th, 1991.

Lightning-The Long Term Effects

This piece discusses the significance of early electrical events, such as lightning strikes, on psychic individuals and abductees. It explains that electrical current flows along blood vessels, nerves, and cerebrospinal fluid, with the brain stem being particularly affected. The article also touches upon the impact of ELF magnetic fields on the human brain, inducing phenomena like a 'sense of presence' or emotional shifts.

Sources of Fields: ELF and Radio Frequency: Artificial and Seismic

This section categorizes various sources of electromagnetic fields, including natural sources like faults, earthquakes, underground streams, lightning, and ball lightning, as well as artificial sources such as TV and radio transmissions, microwave communication systems, quarrying, reservoirs, tunnels, and high buildings. It details the characteristics and potential effects of these fields, including their association with phenomena like earthlights and anomalous transmissions.

Artificial Fields

This part of the article elaborates on artificial sources of electromagnetic fields, including TV and radio transmissions, microwave communication systems, quarrying (which can cause microseisms), reservoirs (which can generate earthquakes and activate dormant faults), and tunnels. It also discusses how towers and high buildings can affect RF beams, creating complex reflected lobes of EM fields.

Editorial Board Meeting Minutes

1) Aims and Objectives of The New UFOlogist

The Editorial Board agreed that the magazine should be serious, scientific, and a-political, with any profits reinvested into the subject. It aims to be UK-biased but welcomes international contributions, particularly from Europe, to address the challenges of multi-lingual data. The magazine is intended to be a primary source of information, not duplicating existing groups or networks, and serving as a platform for scientific debate.

2) Publication Standards

Discussions covered dividing the magazine into sectors, balancing satire and humor, and avoiding splitting articles across issues. A key standard for article acceptance is the use of primary sources. Case reports should only be published if the investigators have done thorough work, and acceptance should not be based on personal bias. The magazine aims for quality over quantity and anticipates increasing circulation.

3) Critical Review of First Issue

The board discussed a critical review from 'Promises and Disappointments' which found the first issue to have potential but lacked edge and authority, criticizing its focus on certain topics like drug use, animal mutilation, and crop circles. The board acknowledged these criticisms and resolved to be at the 'cutting edge' in future issues.

4) Sub Editors and Correspondents

It was decided to appoint Correspondents for different sections of the magazine, responsible for areas like correspondence, overseas reports, and UK reports. They will also handle translations and ensure final proofs are available. Joe Dormer offered to copy edit future issues. Articles submitted will be circulated to the Editorial Board, and rejected articles will receive explanations for their rejection.

5) Artwork and Illustrations

David Taylor offered to provide artwork and illustrations. The board also agreed to produce promotional materials and seek regional sales representatives.

6) Research Projects

The magazine is non-profit, but any profits made will be declared and available for UFO research grants. Applicants will need to provide a summary of their project, and The New UFOlogist will have the first right to this summary.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, with a particular focus on the geological and electromagnetic factors potentially influencing anomalous events in specific regions like Todmorden. The magazine champions a rigorous, evidence-based approach, emphasizing the importance of primary sources and critical analysis. The editorial stance, as outlined in the board meeting minutes, is to be serious, scientific, and a-political, aiming to advance the field of UFOlogy through robust debate and high-quality research. There is a clear desire to move beyond sensationalism and focus on the underlying mechanisms and credible research, as evidenced by the discussion of the critical review of the first issue and the call to be at the 'cutting edge' of the field.

Title: The New UFOlogist
Issue: 3
Date: March/April 1995
Publisher: The New UFOlogist
Country: England
Language: English

Content Summary

Editorial and Future Planning

The editorial team anticipates that Issue 3 will be ready in draft for the next meeting in March/April 1995, with a February deadline for articles. They plan to solicit readership feedback on how the magazine should develop. Editorial board meetings will rotate between Manchester, Birmingham, and London to maximize attendance, with suggestions to include Scotland in future meeting locations.

Case Reports and Reader Contributions

Case reports discussed include work with an abductee by Eric and Linda Morris, and a photographic case from North Wales by Margaret Fry. A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to a letter from Kevin McClure, who offers critical feedback on the magazine's direction. McClure advises focusing on a target audience and marketing strategy, suggesting comparisons with 'Quest'. He argues against making 'The New UFOlogist' an entry-level UFO magazine, advocating for a more sophisticated approach akin to 'The Journal of UFO Studies' (JUFOS) model, which targets informed ufologists and emphasizes quality presentation. He stresses the importance of establishing status and reputation through high standards and quality control, cautioning against sensationalist cover headlines.

McClure also raises concerns about condoning the use of illegal hallucinogens and regression hypnosis for 'meeting with the alien', deeming it dangerous and detrimental to the magazine's credibility. He proposes that future issues should include case reports, analysis of UFO-related news, foreign material, and responses to specific reports (like the GAO report). He suggests a format for 'theme' issues, tackling major and contentious topics with substantial contributions to establish the magazine as an authoritative and thoroughly researched source.

McClure outlines several potential thematic areas for the magazine: the incompatibility of alien contact intelligences, abductions, channelled entities, the role of sex and sexuality in alien contact reports, recovering memories through hypnosis, physical effects of abductions, ancient astronauts, and the search for contact in inner space. He also suggests exploring abductee support groups and organizations, and the effects of temporal lobe/endorphin/brain hemisphere interactions in UFO experiences.

The 'Mad Gasser of Mattoon' Case

The cover story, "The Mad Gasser of Mattoon" by Neil Nixon, re-examines the 1944 case of a mysterious gas attacker in Mattoon, Illinois. Nixon challenges the prevailing conclusion of mass hysteria, arguing that the case is more complex and bizarre than a simple psychological phenomenon. He highlights specific incidents, such as the first case on August 31st where a resident awoke feeling ill and paralyzed, and the case of Mrs. Bert Kearney who experienced paralysis after smelling a strange odor. Nixon points out that physical evidence like a discarded lipstick and skeleton keys, and ripped window screens, are difficult to explain through mass hysteria alone. He notes that some attacks occurred before the press coverage, suggesting an independent event. Nixon also critiques Donald M. Johnson's investigation, which concluded the events were hysteria generated by local press coverage, suggesting Johnson's methodology may have been flawed and his conclusion too simplistic.

Nixon discusses other similar cases, such as the Coatesville, Pennsylvania incident in 1944 and a Houston, Texas case in 1961, involving sweet-smelling gases that caused physical effects, suggesting a potential direct physical cause. He questions the press coverage of the Mattoon case, noting its unusual sensationalism and suggesting that the local paper might have had prior knowledge. Nixon concludes that while a prankster is a possibility, the evidence suggests a real attacker who may have intended the events as a joke, given the lack of lasting damage.

Letters to the Editor and Debates

Several letters engage in debates about UFO phenomena and investigative approaches.

David Newton writes to express his enjoyment of the magazine but cautions against "allergy fever" related to Albert Budden's theory on "electromagnetic pollution." Newton questions the falsifiability of Budden's theory, pointing out that Budden uses terms like 'earthlight' and 'Persinger' interchangeably and lacks clear evidence for how electromagnetic radiation causes close encounter sensations. He argues that Budden's theory is not falsifiable in its current form and that the presence of electrical devices wherever people are does not prove his theory.

Albert Budden replies to David Newton, defending his theory by stating that CE3/4 cases involve a combination of factors including electrical events, childhood abuse, food allergies, and hypersensitivity. He claims his ongoing investigations have shown him to be wrong in some cases, necessitating modifications to his approach. Budden suggests that some cases might be temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) states triggered by environmental factors, rather than solely electrical hypersensitivity.

Jenny Randles writes to address Steuart Campbell's interpretation of a UFO sighting case, arguing that Campbell distorted facts to fit his thesis that Alan Godfrey saw a mirage of Venus. Randles asserts that Campbell's judgment was based on a trivial point in a photograph without interviewing the witness, deeming it incompetent investigation. She also refutes Campbell's claim that she reported Godfrey had "forgotten" turning his car around, clarifying her account and suggesting Campbell misinterpreted her text.

Kenneth Parsons criticizes Albert Budden's approach to the Stonehenge event, accusing him of stripping it of mystery and labeling it 'Hallucinatory Reality'. Parsons argues that Budden's theory of electromagnetic radiation causing close encounter sensations is not well-supported and that Budden uses terms loosely. He suggests that Budden should consider other explanations, such as earth energies or even the possibility of alien spacecraft, rather than solely focusing on electromagnetic pollution. Parsons also dismisses Budden's critique of a Genesis video, stating that 95% of UFO sightings are misidentifications of mundane objects.

Albert Budden replies to Kenneth Parsons, defending his pursuit of understanding phenomena over "mystery-mongering." He reiterates his belief that investigating these phenomena is exciting and that truth is stranger than fiction. Budden acknowledges that while 95% of UFO sightings are misidentifications, he does not dismiss unusual footage outright but requires background information. He also defends his interpretation of the Stonehenge event, suggesting that earth energies could cause mind distortions.

Paul Devereux is mentioned in relation to his book 'Earthlights: Are UFOs "spirits" as the ancients once believed?', which Albert Budden dismisses as not fitting his theory.

Update

An update clarifies that an article in Issue 2, "Roswell A Case Solved" by Paul Fuller, referred to a preliminary report by the US Air Force, not the final GAO report, which was still pending.

Calendar of Events

• The issue includes a calendar of upcoming UFO-related events:
• August 19-20, 1995: BUFORA's 8th International UFO Congress at the University of Hallum, Sheffield.
• August 26-27, 1995: The Paranormal Conference of the Century, organized by the South Wales UFO Group.
• September 1-3, 1995: The 14th Leeds International UFO Conference in Leeds, England.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to foster a critical and investigative approach to UFO phenomena, encouraging debate and challenging established conclusions. There is a clear emphasis on rigorous research, evidence-based analysis, and avoiding sensationalism. The editorial stance seems to favor a sophisticated readership interested in in-depth exploration of cases and theories, rather than a broad, entry-level audience. Debates between contributors highlight differing methodologies and interpretations within the UFO field, particularly concerning the 'Mad Gasser' case, electromagnetic pollution theories, and the interpretation of witness testimony and photographic evidence. The magazine also aims to keep its readership informed about significant developments and upcoming events in the UFO community.

Title: The New UFOlogist
Issue: 3
Date: January 1995 (estimated based on context)
Publisher: The New UFOlogist
Country: United Kingdom

This issue of The New UFOlogist delves into two interconnected events: a UFO sighting over Southampton and a rumored crash of an experimental aircraft at Boscombe Down Airfield. The magazine explores witness testimonies, official responses, and the potential for a cover-up.

The Last Word: Black Manta Photographed over Southampton?

The lead article investigates a photographic case from Southampton on August 14th, 1994. At 23:15 BST, two witnesses observed and photographed two "piercing" white lights low over the northern sky. The lights, described as side-by-side and about the size of a pentop 3mm in diameter held at arm's length, remained stationary for several minutes. One witness managed to take a single photograph as the lights began to move towards his location. The photograph revealed pin-point damage on the negatives. Over approximately two minutes, the lights moved southwards away from the Salisbury/Boscombe Down area. The second witness reported seeing an oval-shaped light grey object with six red lights positioned around its perimeter as it passed overhead. Both witnesses heard a "deep, resonating" sound, unlike that of an ordinary aircraft. The weather was clear with no moon.

Rumored Crash at Boscombe Down

According to several national and regional press articles, something unusual occurred at Boscombe Down Airfield around midnight on September 26th, 1994, six weeks after the Southampton UFO sighting. A rumor emerged that an experimental aircraft, possibly the "Black Manta" prototype fighter or the TR-3A spy plane, had crashed at the end of the runway, resulting in the deaths of its two-man crew. Aircraft enthusiasts reportedly picked up distress signals from the stricken aircraft before the crash. The following morning, numerous individuals attempting to view the airbase were prevented by police roadblocks. It was later alleged that an unusual aircraft was seen near the runway, hidden under tarpaulins. The "Sunday Telegraph" reported on December 18th that observers glimpsed twin inward-canted fins poking through the tarpaulins. A few days later, a C-5 Galaxy transport plane allegedly flew into Boscombe Down and transported the downed aircraft to Palmdale, California, where Stealth aircraft are built.

The article posits whether this unusual craft, with its rounded apexes and unusual delta-shaped wings, could be the same "craft" photographed 40 miles to the south a few weeks earlier.

Investigation and Official Responses

A number of researchers have attempted to link the alleged crash at Boscombe Down with UFO reports from the previous autumn. George Wingfield, in "The Cerealogist," cites a case from Deptford, near Salisbury, where a "frantic" lorry driver spotted a "triangular-shaped object with rounded edges and green and white lights hovering beside the road" along the A303. The driver reported the incident to the police, but the craft had disappeared by the time they arrived. Wingfield suggests this description could refer to the TR-3A Black Manta spy plane being tested at Groom Lake ("Area 51") in Nevada.

One of the Southampton witnesses had undergone pre-pilot training and initially rationalized the lights as those of a hovering harrier or helicopter. However, this interpretation was dismissed due to the object's subsequent appearance and peculiar noise. Both the witness and Paul Fuller contacted numerous civilian airports without success in establishing that a normal aircraft was in the area. The witness also contacted Air Staff 2A at the Ministry of Defence and the joint military-civilian radar centre at West Drayton, but received little help.

Southampton Police confirmed that their spotter plane was not flying that night and that, oddly, no other reports were received about the two lights. Southampton Eastleigh airport confirmed it was closed at the time of the sighting, though other aircraft could be flying over the area. Air Traffic Control at Heathrow Airport (70 miles to the north-east) suggested that a local base like Southampton Eastleigh or A&AEE Boscombe Down might have provided radar cover. Heathrow also independently suggested the Hampshire Police spotter plane might have been involved due to the intensity of the lights. Birmingham ATC reported no aircraft departing from Birmingham that could have flown over the Southampton area. A letter to Boscombe Down elicited no response.

Kerry Philpott of Air Staff 2A replied to the witnesses on August 17th, stating, "I have studied your report, and have spoken to our air defense advisers and can tell you that there were no unusual radar traces in the Southampton area on Sunday evening. I can also confirm that this office has not heard from any other members of the public regarding this incident." Paul Fuller queried this statement, finding it ambiguous. Philpott clarified in a letter dated October 3rd, 1994, that he stated there were no unusual radar traces after speaking to air defense advisers, rather than stating he was unaware of any aircraft that could be responsible.

In a letter to "3rd Stone" magazine on March 7th, 1995, Kerry Philpott denied an air crash at Boscombe Down, stating he was unaware of one on Salisbury Plain on the evening of September 26th. He was aware of a press report alleging a crash, but staff at Boscombe Down confirmed no crash occurred. He stated the only flying that evening was two Royal Navy Sea King helicopters in support of an exercise. The article notes this could be misleading if the alleged crash occurred just after midnight on September 27th.

Conclusion and Editorial Stance

The article concludes that the situation remains unsatisfactory. It questions whether the witnesses were mistaken, if the UFO sightings were normal aircraft, and what triggered the intense interest in the aircraft spotting community. The New UFOlogist pledges to continue its investigation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to adopt a skeptical yet open-minded stance towards UFO phenomena. It emphasizes the need for testable evidence and critical analysis, as highlighted by Paul Fuller's quote: "Because, if you cannot test for something, how do you know that it has any basis in reality? One has to have faith that aliens are not science." The publication is critical of "believers" who treat UFOlogy as a religion and are resistant to examination. The editorial stance suggests a focus on rigorous investigation, the pursuit of verifiable facts, and a cautious approach to interpreting unexplained phenomena, while acknowledging the possibility of unusual aerial objects and potential government secrecy or cover-ups.