New Ufologist - No 4

Magazine Overview

Title: The New Ufologist
Issue: Number 4
Date: 1996
Publisher: The New Ufologist
Country: England
Price: £ 2.50

This issue of The New Ufologist, edited by Joe Dormer, presents a serious, scientifically oriented approach to UFOlogy. It aims to distinguish the 'new UFOlogist' from the more common type by emphasizing critical examination of evidence and a willingness to explore unconventional hypotheses. The magazine covers a range of topics including the pineal gland's connection to psychic phenomena, declassified UFO files, and the influence of environmental factors on consciousness.

Editorial: The New UFOlogist

Joe Dormer, in his first editorial as editor, defines the 'new UFOlogist' as someone who approaches UFO phenomena with an open mind but avoids blind belief. He emphasizes the importance of the scientific method in understanding UFOs, while acknowledging the complexity and puzzling nature of the phenomenon. The editorial critiques sensationalist claims, such as alien autopsies and crashed UFOs, and highlights the desire for humanity not to be alone in the universe. It notes that the 'new UFOlogist' examines evidence and data, finding a wide array of alleged alien descriptions from various sources, but questions their plausibility and origin.

The Pineal Connection

Dr. Serena Roney-Dougal explores the link between psychic experiences and the pineal gland. She posits that an altered state of consciousness, potentially induced or influenced by the pineal gland, can facilitate psychic experiences. The article discusses the 'ajna centre' or 'third eye' in Indian terminology, equating it with the pineal gland. It highlights the use of the Banisteriopsis vine, containing harmaline and DMT, by South American tribes to induce visions for psychic purposes. Roney-Dougal suggests that the pineal gland produces pinolene, structurally similar to harmaline, and that its neurohormones, serotonin and melatonin, are influenced by light, stress, and the Earth's magnetic field (EMF). The production of melatonin, which regulates sleep, peaks at night and is linked to REM sleep and dreaming. The article proposes that beta-carbolines, including pinoline, produced by the pineal gland, might be psi-conducive.

Spanish Air Force UFO Files Declassified

This section, authored by Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos and Jenny Randles, details the declassification of UFO files by the Spanish Air Force. While the specific content of the files is not detailed in the provided text, its inclusion signifies a move towards greater transparency regarding UFO investigations by official bodies.

The Experiments of Nicholas Reiter

Albert Budden writes about the experiments of Nicholas Reiter, who investigates a correlation between alien encounters/abductions and magnetic disturbances. Reiter's work is presented as potentially fitting with Albert Budden's own theories and Serena Roney-Dougal's framework, suggesting a possible connection between magnetic phenomena and UFO experiences.

John Mack Escapes Censure by Harvard Medical School

Paul Fuller reports on John Mack's situation at Harvard Medical School. Mack, a psychiatrist, faced scrutiny for his research into alien abduction experiences. The article notes that Mack escaped censure, indicating a continued, albeit controversial, exploration of abduction phenomena within academic circles.

Right To Reply

This section features contributions from Albert Budden and Dennis Stacy, offering a platform for responses or clarifications on previously published material or topics discussed within the magazine.

Skywatch

Authored by Joe Dormer, this section likely provides updates or observations related to UFO sightings and skywatching activities.

Calendar of Events

This section lists upcoming events relevant to UFOlogy and related fields, such as conferences, lectures, or workshops.

Sightings Update

Joe Dormer provides an update on recent UFO sightings reported to the magazine, offering a summary of new cases or trends.

What's Happening in Germany?

Werner Walter contributes an article discussing current events or developments related to UFO phenomena in Germany.

UFO/Alien Experience

This section delves into the nature of UFO witness accounts, with Jenny Randles coining the term 'Oz Factor' to describe phenomena like background silence during sightings. The article suggests that these experiences might be related to an altered state of consciousness. Serena Roney-Dougal's research is cited, acknowledging the indissoluble link between mind and body. The piece also touches upon the idea that encountering a truly alien life form might be beyond human comprehension, leading to an 'encounter with our own psyche'. The potential for time travel, as discussed by Steven Hawking, is also briefly mentioned.

Sensitivity to the Earth's Magnetic Field

This extensive section, primarily authored by Joe Dormer, explores the hypothesis that the pineal gland's activity and psychic sensitivity are influenced by the Earth's magnetic field (EMF). Dormer suggests that a 'sixth sense' might be a sensitivity to EMF. Research on animals and humans, including studies by Gai Murphy on children's magnetic sense and Baker's work on human navigation, is presented. The article discusses how magnetic fields affect behavior, circadian rhythms, and emotional reactivity. It highlights findings from Indian researchers showing that sudden increases in EMF can affect people with epilepsy and precipitate physiological changes. The link between EMF intensity and admissions to psychiatric hospitals for depression is also noted. Dormer proposes that the calcification of the pineal gland around puberty might be related to its role as a magnetic compass. The article also references Michael Persinger's research correlating geomagnetic data with spontaneous telepathic impressions and poltergeist activity, suggesting that periods of quieter geomagnetic activity might correspond to historical upsurges in psychic phenomena.

The Pineal and the Earth's Magnetic Field - the 25 Hour Clock

This part of the article continues the discussion on the pineal gland and EMF. It reviews research indicating that EMF affects the electrical activity of pineal cells and the automatic nerves connecting the pineal gland to the retina. Studies from 1983 are cited, showing that artificial magnetic fields can inhibit melatonin biosynthesis. The authors suggest that changes in magnetic fields might be the key factor influencing animals. The article posits that EMF changes, influenced by solar activity and lunar cycles, could explain mood fluctuations, such as those associated with the full moon, as the pineal gland is linked to the endocrine system.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the intersection of consciousness, the pineal gland, and external environmental factors, particularly the Earth's magnetic field. There is a strong emphasis on scientific investigation, even when exploring unconventional ideas like psychic phenomena and UFOs. The editorial stance, as articulated by Joe Dormer, is one of critical inquiry, encouraging readers to examine evidence and consider various hypotheses without succumbing to unsubstantiated beliefs. The magazine aims to present well-argued theories and data, fostering a more rigorous approach to the study of UFOlogy and related subjects.

This issue of 'The New UFOlogist', Issue 4, focuses on the declassification of Spanish Air Force UFO files and explores the scientific and psychological aspects of UFO phenomena. It features an interview with Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos, a leading Spanish UFO researcher, and an extract from an unpublished paper by Nicolas Reiter, with comments by Albert Budden.

Spanish Air Force UFO Files Declassified

The interview with Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos reveals that the Spanish Air Force did not officially investigate UFOs as a matter of national defense. While they received and cataloged reports, they did not conduct in-depth research, and their interest diminished once a case was deemed not to pose a security threat. Olmos details the process of obtaining declassified files, noting that 64 out of 71 cases analyzed were explicable, with 7 remaining unexplained or under investigation. He also mentions that 9 cases were classified as close encounters (2 UFOs and 7 IFOs).

The declassification process involved requesting files from various commands and consolidating them. Up to September 1, 1995, forty-nine files covering 1962-1979 had been released, containing 1,108 pages and detailing 71 UFO events. Olmos expresses trust in the MOA (Air Operative Command) to make all available information public after review and highlights the establishment of excellent relationships with intelligence officers.

UFOs and Geomagnetism

This section explores the theory that UFOs, ley lines, and ancient stone circles may be connected to geomagnetic anomalies and the magnetic effects of the solar system. Research by Persinger and Lafreniere suggests that UFO phenomena cluster in specific areas and times, with sightings most frequent in April, July, August, and September. The article posits that 'earthlights' are related to seismo-electricity, where seismic stress on rock crystals generates electromagnetic fields, potentially causing phenomena like ball lightning and influencing psychological states.

UFOs and the Psyche

Paul Devereux and others suggest that reported UFOs and their occupants are largely constructs of our collective unconscious and cultural mythology, rather than inherently physical beings. The idea is that we perceive phenomena through the lens of what we can conceive, and in the current cultural context, this often means 'space beings'. The article draws parallels between UFO lore and older pagan myths, suggesting aliens are a modern form of faery folk. It proposes a theory of 'conformance' where our minds interact with energy fields, potentially creating thought forms that manifest as UFOs. The geomagnetic anomaly associated with UFO sightings is thought to affect the pineal gland, inducing a psi-conducive dream state where individuals are more connected to a collective 'World Mind'.

The Experiments of Nicholas Reiter

This section features an extract from an unpublished paper by Nicolas Reiter, with intertextual comments by Albert Budden, focusing on the link between magnetic fields and anomalous experiences, particularly abductions. Reiter's research suggests that abductees are electromagnetically hypersensitive and that their experiences are triggered by environmental electromagnetic fields. He developed Magnetic Field Markers (MEMs) to detect magnetic disturbances in the homes of volunteers, including self-acknowledged abductees and non-experiencers. His findings indicated that MEMs were triggered on nights when anomalous events occurred, supporting his 'Unified Field Theory' connecting the paranormal and UFO encounters through electromagnetics.

Reiter's experiments involved placing magnets on the skulls of abductees, which induced sensations similar to those reported during abduction experiences. He also found that magnetic field detectors placed in abductees' homes were triggered during anomalous events. The research highlights the potential for electromagnetic fields to cause physical effects, such as nasal bleeding and inflammation, which are sometimes misinterpreted as alien implants.

Further Reading

Several publications by Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos are listed, including "The Spanish Air Force Files" and "UFO Declassification in Spain: Military Files Available to the Public." Other recommended reading includes works by Serena Roney-Dougal, Paul Devereux, M. Shallis, R.R. Baker, and Hilary Evans.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the psychological and cultural influences on UFO sightings, and the potential role of electromagnetic fields and geomagnetic anomalies. The magazine adopts an investigative and analytical stance, presenting research and theories that attempt to explain UFO encounters through scientific and parapsychological frameworks, rather than solely relying on extraterrestrial explanations. There is a clear emphasis on empirical research and the declassification of official data to further understanding.

This issue of The New UFOlogist, Issue 4, published in November 1995, delves into various aspects of UFOlogy, including experimental devices, controversial research, astronomical observations, and ongoing debates within the field. The content spans from detailed case studies of alleged abduction experiences to discussions on scientific and academic scrutiny of UFO phenomena.

MEM Device Experiment with Mrs Brown

The issue begins with 'Table 1: Results of the Magnetic Field Marker experiment with Mrs Brown', detailing dates, events, MEM stick readings, and day/night observations. The MEM stick appears to be a device that registers the presence of a magnetic field. Mrs Brown's log shows numerous 'sticks' associated with various events, some nocturnal and some during the day. The results are presented as somewhat inconclusive, with the conclusion that the device does not detect electrical fields, which might have triggered hallucinatory events or physiological field effects, indicating the device's shortcomings.

MEM Device Case Studies

Several other MEM devices (MEM 3 through MEM 15) are discussed, detailing their use by different individuals and the reported results. MEM 3 was used by Dr. White as a control. MEM 4 was used by Miss Pink, a repeat experiencer of abduction events. MEM 5 was used by Mrs. Brown, a psychotherapist and lifelong experiencer, whose experiences are categorized into Abduction, Encounters with entities, OBEs, sense of presence, and unusual electrical activity around home. MEMs 6 and 7 were sent to a Canadian UFO researcher but were difficult to set up and not used in the field. MEM 8 was a control used by the Teal family. MEM 9 was used by Mrs. Indigo, who reported unusual electrical activity, blown light bulbs, glitching digital clocks, and an inoperative microwave oven, followed by a MEM stick the next morning. MEM 10 was sent to Mr. Orange in California, who reported no anomalous events or sticks. MEM 11 and 12 were used by Mrs. Purple, who reported a disturbing dream and a stick on her MEM, and then by her neighbor, Mrs. Yellow, a non-experiencer with no sticks. MEM 13 was used by Mrs. Blue, a lifelong experiencer, though the log was lost. MEM 14 was given to an abductee, but no notes were forwarded. MEM 15 was used by Mrs. Red, an abduction experiencer, and recorded 20 abduction-type events with 14 associated sticks over a period of several months.

Conclusion by Albert Budden

Albert Budden concludes that the MEM devices are simple and do not measure magnetic fields precisely, only indicating their presence. He notes that the inability to detect electrical fields might explain CEIII/IV events without a 'stick'. Budden posits that magnetic and electric fields can trigger reactions and hallucinations, especially in sensitized individuals. He supports his premise that electromagnetic pollution is a stimulus behind the CEIII/IV experience and 'visitations'.

John Mack Escapes Censure by Harvard Medical School

Paul Fuller reports on Dr. John Mack, a UFO author and professor of psychiatry, who escaped censure from a Harvard Medical School panel. The panel, headed by Arnold Relman, investigated Mack's controversial work with UFO abductees. While the panel did not consider the truth of Mack's claims, they urged him to uphold high standards of clinical practice and investigation. Mack's supporters viewed the outcome as a triumph for academic freedom, while critics, like 'Skeptic' magazine, focused on Mack's public endorsement of abductee claims and his failure to submit his research to peer review. The investigation aimed to balance the school's credibility with academic freedom. The leaked preliminary report indicated that it was professionally irresponsible to give credence to abduction claims without extensive psychological testing.

Right to Reply

This section features correspondence and debates. Kevin McClure questions the 'mutilation' near Bratton, suggesting it might be ball lightning. Albert Budden defends the investigation of the incident, citing Joe Dormer of the Fylde UFO Investigation Group and referencing the Guinness Book of Facts and Feats regarding ball lightning damage to windows, drawing parallels to thermo-electric cauterizing effects on soft tissue.

Skywatch

Joe Dormer provides an astronomical update for January, February, and March, detailing the visibility and positions of planets. January includes Mercury as an evening star, Venus at -4.0 magnitude, and the setting of Mars. February notes Venus and Saturn close together, and Uranus as a morning object. March sees Mercury moving into the evening sky and Jupiter rising earlier.

Calendar of UFO Events

The 'Calendar' section lists upcoming UFO events, including conferences in Sheffield, London, Leeds, and Cardiff, featuring speakers like Whitley Strieber, Richard Hoagland, Nick Pope, and Graham Hancock. It also includes contact information for organizers.

Sightings Update

A brief 'Sightings Update' is dated November 19, 1995.

MUFON Journal Editor's Letter

Dennis Stacy, Editor of the MUFON Journal, addresses a confusion regarding the Roswell report, clarifying that it was issued by the Air Force, not the GAO. He explains that GAO auditors have security clearances to monitor government agency documents and that the Roswell incident is a secondary issue to their mandate of ensuring proper procedures were followed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of anomalous phenomena, particularly UFO sightings and abduction experiences, through various means including experimental devices like the MEM stick. There's a strong emphasis on the scientific and psychological aspects of these experiences, as seen in the discussion of Dr. John Mack's research and the MEM device's potential to indicate electromagnetic influences. The magazine also engages with skeptical viewpoints and debates, as evidenced in the 'Right to Reply' section. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into UFO phenomena, while also acknowledging the need for rigorous investigation and critical analysis, as highlighted by the Harvard case and the discussion of scientific standards.

Title: The New UFOlogist
Issue: 4
Date: Indicated as 'Page 31' and 'Page 32' on the scanned pages, suggesting a publication date around the early 1980s given the context of UFOlogy at the time.
Country of Publication: Implied to be UK or Europe based on content and publisher.
Language: English

This issue of The New UFOlogist features two main investigative reports: one detailing a sighting in Blackpool, UK, and the other focusing on UFO phenomena in Germany.

Blackpool Sighting

The first report, sourced from Joe Dormer of LAPIS, details an incident involving Gary Baildon in Blackpool on the evening of Sunday, November 19th. At approximately 5:45 p.m., Baildon experienced a complete power outage in his upstairs flat, which extended to all the streetlights and neighboring houses. While investigating the blackout, he noticed a bright light flooding his yard and heard a humming sound with intermittent crackling. He then saw a triangular object in the sky, illuminated around its perimeter with fluorescent-type lighting. The object's light extinguished within a second, but Baildon continued to observe the unlit craft as it glided from north to south. LAPIS has confirmed that a blackout occurred in the area, affecting both houses and streetlighting, which are supplied by separate generators. A similar blackout was also reported further north at Fleetwood around the same time.

The report notes remarkable similarities between this case and other triangular UFO sightings reported globally, including in Belgium, the US, and Japan. These cases often involve a burst of bright light, a humming sound, and occur shortly after sunset. Gary Baildon also reported experiencing a 'weird feeling...like you feel the presence of someone in the room' before the light appeared, a sensation commonly reported in similar cases.

UFO Phenomena in Germany

The second major section is a report by Werner Walter, founder member and editor of CENAP (Central Investigations Network for unusual Aerial Phenomena). CENAP is described as one of the oldest but smallest UFO groups in Germany, with only seventy members, due to its skeptical and scientific approach.

Walter states CENAP's primary task is to separate genuine UFO phenomena from unidentified flying objects (IFOs) or misidentifications. He emphasizes that even credible witnesses, such as a fighter pilot and a university professor of astronomy, can be mistaken. Walter notes that Daylight Disks (DDs) are rarely reported in Germany, and photographic evidence is often of poor quality or fake. Most German sightings involve 'Lights-in-the-Sky,' which people tend to interpret as alien spacecraft based on popular UFO literature. Walter identifies this as the main sociological problem facing UFO researchers, a view not shared by most other UFO groups.

Walter discusses the increase in reported sightings, partly attributed to the 'Skytracker,' a laser device with a 4,000-watt output capable of projecting light effects up to 35-40 kilometers. He recounts an incident where a man reported glowing objects, twice the size of the full moon, cruising in the sky for hours in a triangular area between Worms, Mannheim, and Weinheim. The witness, armed and preparing to defend himself, was eventually informed that he was observing a Skytracker device, which he initially dismissed as an 'idiot's' explanation.

This phenomenon was also witnessed by the man's wife and daughter on the highway between Viernheim and Weinheim, where beams of light were projected from the ground into the clouds. A police patrol in Mannheim traced the source of the light to a disco in Lampertheim. After this was explained, Walter stated he could sleep better, noting that most witnesses call immediately after spotting a UFO.

The report then touches upon Close Encounter of the Third Kind (CE3) and Close Encounter of the Fourth Kind (CE4) cases. Walter mentions a case involving an elderly woman who reported a 'Grey' alien in her bedroom. Her husband, however, dismissed her claims, stating she often mistook aeroplanes for UFOs and was influenced by books on UFO abductions. Walter notes that in their investigations of cases involving aliens and abductions, CENAP has found subjects to be psychologically disturbed, with some receiving psychiatric treatment.

Walter concludes that despite these findings, reports continue to emerge, and people will continue to believe what they want to believe.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine adopts a stance that balances reporting on unusual sightings with a critical, scientific approach, particularly evident in Werner Walter's contribution. The recurring themes include the investigation of unexplained aerial phenomena, the challenges of distinguishing genuine sightings from misidentifications, and the sociological aspects of UFO belief. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation and skepticism, as exemplified by CENAP's methodology, while still acknowledging the persistence and widespread nature of UFO reports. The issue highlights the importance of careful analysis and the potential for mundane explanations, such as the Skytracker device, to account for seemingly extraordinary events.