New Ufologist - No 6

Magazine Overview

Title: The New Ufologist
Issue: 6
Date: 1997 (estimated from copyright and content)
Publisher: The New Ufologist
Country: England
ISSN: 1358-3174
Price: £ 2.50

This issue of The New Ufologist delves into the 'Belgium Wave' of UFO sightings that occurred primarily in 1989-1990. The cover features a photograph of scattered lights with the headline "Petit-Rechain Photo Explained ?". The magazine presents a variety of articles, analyses, and opinions on this phenomenon, exploring potential explanations and the evidence gathered.

Editorial

The editorial welcomes readers to issue 6, noting the challenges faced in its production due to significant life events affecting the editorial board. It expresses hope for a more regular and reliable publication schedule in the future. The editorial highlights the issue's focus on a first-class analysis of the Belgian 'triangles' wave by Wim Van Utrecht, suggesting it was triggered by social forces and investigator interaction. It also mentions Ron Halliday's study of the Bonnybridge phenomenon and the controversial claim that the major radar-visual case of March 30-31, 1990, could be explained by anomalous radar reflections and misperceptions of astronomical phenomena. The editorial notes the irony of Van Utrecht's attempt to replicate the Petit-Rechain photograph, which may cast doubt on its evidence. It questions whether any UFO wave can have substantial physical basis if the Belgium wave was largely based on misperceptions and hoaxes. The issue also includes contributions from Malcolm Robinson responding to Halliday, Victor Kean on flying triangles, and Steuart Campbell offering a sceptical perspective.

Articles and Features

The BELGIUM WAVE: A three-cornered affair by Wim Van Utrecht

This article, prefaced by a 'Prelude' that references the 1989 Voronezh UFO landing as a catalyst for UFO news in Western Europe, examines the Belgium Wave. Van Utrecht suggests the wave was triggered by social forces and concentrated in specific geographical areas, influenced by 'cultural factors' and the location of investigators. He proposes that the March 30-31, 1990, radar-visual case might be explained by anomalous radar reflections and misperceptions of astronomical phenomena. The article questions the validity of high-strangeness UFO cases constructed from prosaic events. It also discusses the possibility that the entire Belgium wave was a sociological phenomenon driven by misperceptions, particularly of the planet Venus, amplified by UFOlogists and the media.

The Bonnybridge Phenomenon by Ron Halliday

Halliday's study of the Bonnybridge phenomenon in Scotland is presented, noting its parallels with the Belgium wave in terms of geographical and sociological confines. He suggests that the presence of media figures and a newspaper circulation war concentrated public attention on mundane sightings, raising questions about how UFO waves begin and grow.

A Response to Ron Halliday's 'The Bonnybridge Phenomenon' by Malcolm Robinson

Malcolm Robinson agrees that the media played a significant role in the Bonnybridge case, but disagrees that all reports are readily explicable, maintaining that there is still something to study.

Operation Flying Triangle by Victor J. Kean

Kean provides data collection on reports of flying triangles, advocating for UFO groups to cooperate and exchange data. His work suggests that flying triangles are not a recent phenomenon, with some reports dating back to the 1950s.

UFOLOGY PROVES IT'S POINT: An Article by Malcolm Robinson on a Recent T.V. Success for UFOlogy

Robinson describes a televised UFO court case where the reality of UFOs was debated, leading to a jury accepting that UFOs are 'a reality', which he considers a significant victory for ufologists.

Is That An Implant In Your Pocket - Or Are You Just Pleased To See Me? Ufology - Live In Lytham by Andy Roberts

Roberts offers an insider's view of the Lytham St. Annes UFO Conference.

Please Turn Off The Lights When You Leave by Peter D. Rendall

Rendall discusses the demise of the plasma-vortex explanation for crop circles and the implications for finding explanations.

Letters to The Editor

This section includes contributions from Steuart Campbell, Victor Kean, Joe Dormer, and Kevin McClure, offering various opinions and comments.

The BELGIUM WAVE (Prelude and Article)

The 'Prelude' section notes the Voronezh landing as the first major UFO news in Western Europe in a long time. The article itself details the events of the Belgium Wave, starting with the Halen disco light-show incident and moving to the Eupen gendarmerie sighting of a triangular object on November 29, 1989. It describes the object's characteristics and the subsequent investigation. The article also discusses the possibility of Venus being mistaken for the UFO and mentions the role of SOBEPS in the investigation.

The radar evidence

This section details a press conference held by Lieutenant-Colonel Wilfried De Brouwer regarding the March 30-31, 1990, incident. He acknowledged unusual radar activity, including multiple lock-ons by F-16 fighters. However, sceptics suggested radar malfunctions or atmospheric effects. The article notes that a military study revealed some lock-ons were likely due to the F-16s tracking each other, and others possibly due to 'ground clutter'. De Brouwer later regretted the premature release of information.

The photographic evidence

This section discusses various photographic and video evidence related to the Belgium Wave. It mentions a video of a 'triangle' that was later identified as an ordinary airliner. It also describes a photograph from a skywatch that yielded only four microscopic white dots, with the conclusion that the position of the spots was characteristic of an airplane. The article notes that many photos and videos depicted aircraft lights, stars, or planets, or were affected by camera autofocus issues. A colour slide from Petit-Rechain, showing a black triangle, is presented as more difficult to explain.

Acknowledgement

The magazine acknowledges the republication of an article from the book 'UFOs 1947-1997' by Hilary Evans and Dennis Stacy, originally from Fortean Times. This book highlights Belgium as the scene of a significant cluster of UFO sightings in 1989-1990, characterized by large, black triangular forms.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the analysis of the Belgium Wave of UFO sightings, with a strong emphasis on critical examination of evidence. The magazine appears to adopt a balanced approach, presenting both ufological interpretations and sceptical viewpoints. There is a clear interest in exploring the sociological and psychological factors that may influence UFO reports, alongside the investigation of physical evidence such as photographs and radar data. The editorial stance seems to favour rigorous research and open debate, encouraging readers to submit their opinions and counter-arguments. The issue highlights the ongoing debate about the nature of UFO phenomena and the challenges in distinguishing between genuine unexplained events and misinterpretations or hoaxes.

Title: The New UFOlogist
Issue: 6
Date: Not specified

This issue of The New UFOlogist delves into several significant UFO phenomena, focusing on the Belgian UFO wave and the Bonnybridge phenomenon in Scotland. It features articles by Malcolm Robinson, Ron Halliday, and Victor J. Kean, exploring witness accounts, investigative efforts, media influence, and the characteristics of various aerial phenomena.

The Petit-Rechain Incident

The issue begins by examining the Petit-Rechain slide, a photograph taken by a local photographer depicting white lights in the sky. SOBEPS investigators were convinced of the photographer's integrity, describing the lights as clusters of smaller lights, with a scientific consultant suggesting they might be plasma jets from the object's propulsion system. However, skeptics pointed to discrepancies in witness testimonies and the lack of background details for verification. Attempts to replicate the slide by Wim Van Utrecht are also discussed, with a comparative analysis by the Royal Military School in Brussels noting differences, particularly that the lights on the original slide did not appear to come through pierced holes.

Physical Evidence and Belgian UFO Wave

Old-time ufologists expressed skepticism about the Belgian UFOs, noting the low number of entity reports and daylight sightings, and the absence of electromagnetic side effects commonly reported in other 'genuine flaps'. Reports of ground or vegetation traces were also scarce, with only four cases recorded for the 1989-1991 period, including one mentioning twelve circular patches in grass. The Belgian wave produced hundreds of eye-witness accounts but no conclusive physical evidence. Despite this, researchers acknowledge that trivial everyday phenomena cannot explain all incidents, especially those with independent witnesses reporting UFOs in well-defined areas on the same day. Three peak days for sightings were November 29, 1989, December 11-12, 1989, and March 12, 1991.

The 'K' Factor and Aviation Explanations

Explanations for the Belgian sightings often focused on two possibilities: an ultra-light aeroplane or a motorized balloon. A rumor suggested an Air Force pilot flying a home-built ULM was responsible for some sightings on November 29, though this was unconfirmed. The possibility of a motorized airship, or 'zeppelin', equipped with bright spotlights was also raised, with a person referred to as 'K.' living in Brussels being identified. In 1991, a SOBEPS investigator learned that K. admitted his contraptions were responsible for many sightings and had even offered a solution to the Belgium UFO problem to the Air Force for a substantial sum. K.'s invention was a teleguided steering mechanism for motorized balloons with spotlights and/or camcorders, used for concerts and advertising.

The Bonnybridge Phenomenon

Ron Halliday's article focuses on Bonnybridge in Central Scotland, which gained international attention as a UFO hotspot between 1993 and 1995. Nick Pope stated there had been over 8,000 UFO incidents in Bonnybridge, a figure significantly higher than the town's population. The article explores various factors contributing to this phenomenon, including the geographical aspects of the area, such as elevated, isolated ground with low light pollution, and the presence of a large petrochemical site in nearby Grangemouth. However, it dismisses the idea that unemployment or boredom among residents was a primary cause, as employed witnesses were also involved. The media's role is highlighted, with numerous local and national newspapers competing for readership, making Bonnybridge a 'media exercise'. The involvement of Billy Buchanan, a local councillor, is seen as a key catalyst, providing credibility to the stories.

Malcolm Robinson's response to Halliday's article argues that while the Bonnybridge phenomenon was real, the media figures of 2,000 to 8,000 reports are exaggerated, with his own research suggesting a true figure of 300-350 bona fide reports. He also addresses the 'Zal-us affair', calling it press nonsense unrelated to the core Bonnybridge events. Robinson emphasizes that while the phenomenon may have died down, it represented a genuine occurrence and urges against mocking such events, as they contribute to humanity's quest for knowledge.

Operation Flying Triangle

Victor J. Kean's article, "Operation Flying Triangle," discusses the emergence of Flying Triangle (FT) sightings, noting their consistent design configuration and modus operandi, unlike earlier 'flying saucer' reports. The 'Hudson Valley' wave of FT sightings (1982-86) is mentioned, along with various descriptive terms used for the craft, such as 'Boomerang' and 'Triangle'. Skeptics suggest advanced US military stealth aircraft, but early FT reports predate such possibilities. Historical sightings of triangular craft date back to 1941, with a notable report from 1960 over Consett, UK, describing a triangular formation of lights. The Belgian wave of 1989/1990, with thousands of sightings and a 'lock-on' by Belgian Airforce jets, further fueled the debate about whether FTs were alien or technologically advanced. The article mentions efforts to collect and analyze FT reports using a computer database, with a significant event being 40 sightings across four UK counties on February 22nd, 1995, involving 54 individuals. The FT is often sighted during darkness, and the 'apex lights' might be apparatus rather than conventional lights. The database has highlighted that FT sightings in the Newcastle area were preceded by earlier events.

UFOlogy Proves Its Point: A Mock Court Case

This section details a mock court case presented on Grampian Television's series "WE THE JURY" in Scotland, which debated the reality of UFOs and alien sightings. Malcolm Robinson presented the case for UFOs being real, supported by UFO witnesses and 'abductees'. Opposing him was arch skeptic Steuart Campbell, who argued for natural explanations. The debate involved professional and amateur astronomers, including Professor Archie Roy. The program aimed to present UFOlogy to the nation without editing, allowing for a direct confrontation between believers and skeptics. Robinson highlighted close proximity sightings, radar confirmations, and the growing number of impressive UFO cases, while Campbell argued for the lack of concrete evidence and the possibility of mirages and temperature inversions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue consistently explores the challenges of UFO research, including the difficulty in verifying evidence, the impact of media sensationalism, and the skepticism from both scientific and some ufological communities. The magazine provides a platform for different viewpoints, featuring both proponents and skeptics of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting detailed accounts of sightings and investigations while acknowledging the complexities and controversies surrounding the subject. There's a clear emphasis on the need for rigorous investigation and a critical approach to reported figures and explanations.

This issue of The New UFOlogist, Issue 6, delves into various aspects of ufology, featuring a mix of personal accounts, conference reports, theoretical discussions, and letters to the editor. The content reflects a period of active debate and investigation within the UFO community, particularly concerning the reality of UFOs, alien abductions, and the interpretation of evidence.

Key Articles and Reports

UFOlogy's TV Victory

The issue opens with a detailed account of a live TV debate where the reality of UFOs was put to a jury. Despite facing opposition from professional and amateur astronomers, ufologists, led by Malcolm Robinson, presented their case. The jury's verdict was a significant victory for ufology, finding the reality of the UFO phenomenon proven by 9 votes to 3. This was followed by an overwhelming public response, with 86% of callers believing UFOs are a reality. The event was celebrated by members of SPI and English ufologist Eric Morris.

Editorial Comment and Steuart Campbell's Reply

An editorial comment questions whether the TV debate truly represented a victory for ufology or the best way to convince the scientific community. It also queries the choice of astronomers as the primary skeptical representatives. Steuart Campbell, in his reply, critiques Malcolm Robinson's account, suggesting the TV programme was more for entertainment than serious investigation. Campbell argues that the jury, composed of ordinary people without UFO expertise, was not equipped to give a definitive answer, and that the question 'Have aliens visited Earth?' was flawed.

UFO Conference Reports

Lytham Conference: The magazine reports on the LAPIS conference in Lytham, titled 'The CIA Conference (Conspiracies, Implants, Abductions)'. Marcus Allen presented a theory that the moon landing was faked. Michael Lindemann discussed the idea that increased UFO imagery in popular culture is a subtle build-up to a revelation about alien presence, suggesting a paradigm shift towards accepting alien visitation. Lindemann's argument about the 'alien/UFO image' being a potent cultural symbol reflecting societal anxieties is also explored.

Derrel Sims and Implants: Derrel Sims is presented as a significant ufologist focusing on the myth of fingerprints and the 'implant' phenomenon. The article expresses skepticism about implant claims, particularly the methods used for removal and the potential for misidentification, citing a case where a supposed implant was identified as a Diatom skeleton.

Nick Pope's Lecture: Nick Pope, formerly of the MOD's UFO desk, gave a lecture that was described as bland but well-received due to his government affiliation. His explanation for revealing information was attributed to the impact of 'kill and tell' books on MOD publication policies.

Simon Lewis on Triangular UFOs: Simon Lewis discussed the history and sightings of triangular UFOs, suggesting they might be test craft. He also touched upon strange structures on the moon and the 'Face On Mars', attributing them to natural phenomena or simulacra.

Theoretical Discussions

The Plasma Vortex and Crop Circles: Peter D. Rendall examines the fading interest in crop circles and the 'Plasma Vortex' theory, which posited that electrically-charged whirlwinds formed the patterns. Rendall argues that the theory's inability to consistently produce circles, despite ideal conditions, renders it untenable. He notes the shift in focus of publications like 'The Cropwatcher' towards UFO studies.

Mirage Hypothesis: Steuart Campbell offers a mirage hypothesis to explain a sighting of an anomalous light, suggesting it might have been Sirius, the star, distorted by atmospheric conditions. He also defends his use of the mirage hypothesis for explaining UFO reports and criticizes other interpretations.

Research Appeals and Letters

Research Appeal: The Irish UFO and Paranormal Research Association is seeking information on UFO reports made by airline pilots from 1947 onwards.

Letters to the Editor: Several letters address specific cases and articles. Victor J. Kean points out discrepancies in dates related to the 'Stonehenge Event'. Jayne MacNish's statement regarding the Westbury White Horse Incident is contrasted with her husband John MacNish's account. Joe Dormer criticizes Steuart Campbell's explanations, particularly regarding the Alan Godfrey UFO case and ball lightning. Steuart Campbell defends his positions and criticizes Ralph Noyes' review of his book.

Editorial Comment on Ball Lightning: An editorial comment highlights recent articles in 'The Journal of Meteorology' by Dr. D.J. Turner concerning the interaction of ball lightning with glass window panes, relevant to UFO cases.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the tension between skeptical scientific explanations and the evidence presented by ufologists and witnesses. There is a clear interest in debunking hoaxes and providing alternative explanations, as seen in Steuart Campbell's contributions and the critique of the 'Plasma Vortex' theory. However, the magazine also acknowledges the persistent public interest in UFOs and the ongoing debate about their reality. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging readers to examine evidence, question assumptions, and consider various hypotheses, while also highlighting the challenges in definitively proving or disproving UFO phenomena. The magazine seems to advocate for a more rigorous and open-minded approach to the subject, distinct from what it perceives as sensationalism or uncritical acceptance.

This document is page 31 of "The New UFOlogist", Issue 6. It contains a reader's letter, details for an upcoming UFO conference, and astronomical data for the months of June and July.

Reader's Letter

Kevin McClure of Leeds, Yorkshire, writes to question the validity of a report concerning the death of a horse. He refers to a 'non-expert' report, implying it was not made by a veterinary surgeon whose opinion he would trust. The report in question attributes the horse's death to 'A lightning strike on the horse at the summit had thrown up a number of small ball-lightning centres which had then expended their electro-thermal energies through the horse as described, cauterising off the ear and sex organ'. McClure asserts that Mr. Budden's assertions lack any supporting evidence and asks readers to consider this 'wild assumption' when evaluating other claims made by Albert.

CALENDER: The LAPIS International UFO Conference

The document announces The LAPIS International UFO Conference, scheduled for November 15th-16th, 1997. The venue is The Lowther Pavilion, Lytham, near Blackpool. Speakers listed include Bill Holden, Dr. Brian O'Leary, and Matthew Williams. Contact persons for inquiries are Paulette (phone: 01253 391704) and Sam (phone: 01253 691301).

Astronomical Data - June

For June, Mercury is described as a morning 'star' that reaches superior conjunction on the 25th, becoming an evening star. It is not visible mid-summer due to the ecliptic's inclination. Venus is only slightly visible low on the horizon in the evening sky. Mars is in the constellation of Virgo, moving southeast, at magnitude 0.6 and fading. Jupiter is noted as the brightest star in the night sky at -2.7 magnitude, going retrograde on the 10th. Saturn is in Pisces, rising in the morning twilight early in the month and around midnight by the 30th. Uranus is in Capricorn, rising around 11:30 p.m. early in the month. Neptune is in Sagittarius, rising around 9 p.m. by the end of the month, and is not visible to the naked eye. The Moon's positions are noted relative to Venus (6th), Mars (13th), Jupiter (24th), and Saturn (1st). Full moon is on the 20th.

Astronomical Data - July

In July, Mercury continues as an evening star but sets too close to the sun to be visible in twilight. Venus can still be seen in the evening, low on the north-western horizon. Mars will be passing by Spica in Virgo, with magnitudes of 1.0 and 1.2 respectively, Mars being identifiable by its reddish colour. Mars passes into Libra late in the month. Jupiter rises in the east as the sun sets and is visible all night. Saturn rises at 10 p.m. by the end of the month. Uranus is at opposition on the 29th, appearing due south at midnight. Neptune is at opposition on the 21st, visible through a telescope throughout the night. The Moon's positions are noted relative to Venus (7th), Mars (11th), Jupiter (21st), and Saturn (25th). Full moon is on the 20th.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this excerpt are ufology (through the conference announcement and reader's letter questioning an unusual claim), and astronomy (through detailed monthly data). The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, providing a platform for reader contributions and factual astronomical information, while also implicitly encouraging critical assessment of extraordinary claims, as highlighted by the reader's letter and the questioning of evidence.