Northern UFO News - No 182

Magazine Overview

Northern UFO News, Issue 182, Summer 1999, marks the 25th anniversary of the publication, a significant milestone in the field of UFOlogy. The magazine, edited by Jenny Randles, covers a wide range of topics from investigations and case studies to book reviews and commentary on the evolving nature of UFOlogy. The cover design is by Roy Sandbach, and the address for NUFON is provided as 1 Hallsteads Close, Dove Holes, Buxton, High Peak, Derbyshire SK17 8BS. The subscription rate is £6 for six issues, payable to 'NUFON'.

Contents Overview

The contents page outlines a diverse array of articles and features:

• Pages 2-3: An editorial piece by Jenny Randles titled 'The changing face of British UFOlogy,' discussing the need for adaptation and a potential 'new UFOlogy' as the millennium approaches. It touches upon the polarization of the field, bizarre ideas creeping into the mainstream, and the work of researchers like David Clarke and Kevin Randle.
• Page 4: A reflection on NUN's 25-year history, highlighting changes in UFOlogy from 1974 to 1999, and the magazine's consistent aim to record UFO activity. It also features a reproduction of a favorite cover from 'Northern UFOlogy' (Issue 89, October 1981) and mentions John Watson's artwork. The 500th edition of BUFORA's news service, UFO Call, is also noted.
• Page 5: News items cover 'Small screen UFOs,' including Steven Spielberg's new TV series 'TAKEN' and the 'Roswell' drama series, as well as a movie adaptation of John Keel's 'The Mothman Prophecies.' An article titled 'What to do about defence - paint it black' discusses the French Cometa report on UFOs and defense implications.
• Page 6: Continues with news and 'BITS,' including announcements from Magonia about an essay competition, a critique of an article in 'The Skeptic' magazine regarding alien abductions, and commentary on the evolution of 'anonymous letter writers' compared to past issues.
• Pages 7-8: 'MAJOR ARTICLES ELSEWHERE' reviews various UFO and paranormal publications, including 'The Ley Hunter,' 'The Labyrinth,' 'The X Factor,' 'Fortean Times,' and 'Beyond.' It also provides updates on BUFORA Bulletin, IUR, MUFON Journal, and Magonia.
• Page 9: Reviews of books such as 'Fortean Studies Vol 5,' 'The Rising of the Moon,' and 'UFO Revelation.'
• Page 10: Features 'INVESTIGATION: Latest UFO sightings,' including 'Rendlesham Ramblings' and a discussion of the Rendlesham Forest incident from a local police perspective. It also previews upcoming books like 'Cosmic Crashes' by Nick Redfern and 'The UFOs that never were' by Dave Clarke, Andy Roberts, and Jenny Randles.

The Changing Face of British UFOlogy

Jenny Randles' editorial, 'The changing face of British UFOlogy,' posits that the field is heading towards a 'great showdown' and the emergence of a 'new UFOlogy' as the millennium approaches. She notes a polarization within the field, with some presentations at MUFON conferences becoming increasingly bizarre, such as a dating agency for abductees. Randles observes that generally accepted UFOlogy is becoming more accepting of unusual ideas, citing the Tornado incident over the Peak District in 1997 as an example where BUFORA controversially supported an alien shoot-down theory. This has led to resignations from prominent figures like Gloria Dixon and Robert Moore. Researchers like Kevin Randle and Greg Long are noted for their shift towards greater skepticism or disapproval of the current state of UFOlogy. Randles, along with Andy Roberts and David Clarke, has co-authored a book titled 'The UFOs that never were,' which aims to provide a skeptical overview of why 'IFO' (Identified Flying Object) cases should not be ignored. This shift towards objectivity is seen as a collective response to the perception of sensationalism in the field.

Randles proposes a new structure for UK UFOlogy, including an entry-level 'UFO Net' for teenagers, a mainstream tier for national groups like BUFORA and regional organizations, and a third tier called 'Pro UFO.' Pro UFO is envisioned as a self-administered research and investigation institute, funded by members, to conduct serious research and raise funds for specialist tests and projects that UFO groups cannot afford. This would be a democratic structure with members having a one-person, one-vote say in its use, adhering to a 'Code of Practice' to maintain professionalism.

NUN Gets 25 Years

This section celebrates the 25th anniversary of Northern UFO News, with the editor reflecting on the magazine's journey from a spirit duplicator model to professional printing. Over 182 issues, the magazine has covered the evolution of UFO topics from the obscurity of MJ12 and Area 51 to the current 'mayhem' of 1999. The editor notes that while many readers from the first issue are no longer active, a significant number have been involved for 15-20 years. A favorite cover from 'Northern UFOlogy' (Issue 89, October 1981), featuring artwork by John Watson depicting various 'heads' for a 'Worzel UFOlogist,' is reproduced. The article also mentions John Watson's other contributions and asks if anyone knows his whereabouts.

UFO Call is 500

The 500th edition of BUFORA's news and information service, UFO Call, is announced. The editor has been contributing to this weekly service for nearly 10 years. The service is available via premium rate phone lines, with a new number provided (09068-121886). The article also notes that NUN now has an email address for submitting news and copy.

Small Screen UFOs

This section discusses the growing presence of UFOs in popular culture, particularly on US television. Steven Spielberg is developing a 20-hour TV mini-series titled 'TAKEN,' focusing on alien abduction cases, set to air from autumn 2000. The series will cover the alien contact story from Roswell onward. Additionally, the drama series 'Roswell,' initially conceived as 'Roswell High,' is mentioned, featuring Jonathan Frakes as producer. The article also notes that a movie adaptation of John Keel's 'The Mothman Prophecies' is planned for release in mid/late 2000. The author expresses a desire for more films based on typical UFO cases, like the 'Light in the sky over Scunthorpe' incident.

What to do about defence - paint it black

This article reviews the French Cometa report, a detailed analysis of UFOs and defense implications prepared by a group of French military officials. The report, which caused a stir in July 1999, concludes that UFOs are 'quasi certain' and that the Roswell crash likely occurred. It criticizes the US (and possibly Britain) for a massive disinformation campaign since 1947 and suggests that UFOs might use magneto-hydrodynamic propulsion. The report also discusses implications for ET contact on the economy, politics, and religion, recommending the formation of an EEC alliance to address UFO issues and prepare for potential alien invasions. The article notes that while some in French UFOlogy are critical, others see it as a breakthrough.

Major Articles Elsewhere

This section reviews several other publications in the paranormal and UFO field:

• The Ley Hunter: Sadly announces its final issue (133) after a long run since 1969, covering earth mysteries and folklore.
• The Labyrinth: A new magazine edited by Rory Lushman, featuring a Bruce Maccabee study and articles on various phenomena.
• The X Factor: Continues to publish, with contributions from the editor and interviews with Nick Redfern and Tony Dodd.
• Fortean Times: Continues its coverage of paranormal topics, including articles on alien sex, the 'Alternative 3' hoax, and Area 51 disinformation.
• Beyond: A new newsstand magazine edited by Tim Matthews and Philip Mantle, covering a wide range of paranormal topics.

BUFORA Bulletin

Robert Moore is noted as the latest editor to leave BUFORA. The bulletin mentions Nabil Shaban, a UFOlogist and actor known for his role as 'Sil' in Doctor Who, who is researching Hughie Green's connection to the Roswell case.

IUR 130 (CUFOS, USA)

Features a case researched by Bill Chalker involving a Nordic female who left a strand of hair after a Sydney bedroom visitor episode. DNA tests revealed the hair was terrestrial, not alien, but possessed unusual genetic markers.

MUFON Journal (USA)

Highlights articles from March, April, and May issues, covering topics such as skeletons, military interrogations of abductees, and disappearing men.

MAGONIA 67

Features an article on Nostradamus and his prophecy concerning the year 1999.

Folklore Frontiers

Edited by Gloria Dixon, this magazine is described as having all-embracing coverage of UFOs, NDEs, and other topics.

Dead of Night 17

Praised for its value, this magazine includes ghost stories, voodoo, alien big cats, and UFOs.

The Circular Mar 99 (CCCS)

Covers maps, pictures, and information related to cerealogy.

Books of the Moment

• UFO Revelation by Tim Matthews: Described as an original analysis of UFOs in the context of secret aircraft development, focusing on technology rather than aliens or abductions. It traces the history from Nazi Germany to modern drones and magnetic energy aircraft.
• Fortean Studies Vol 5: An annual publication with deeply referenced chapters on various topics, including alien animal reports and a commentary on the UFOlogy year by Neil Nixon. It also includes a comprehensive index of Fortean Times issues.
• The Rising of the Moon by Jonathan Downes: This book proposes a theory that emotive acts can create thought forms (tulpas) that manifest visually. The authors' personal adventure story leads to this theory, which is presented as a new concept, though precedents are noted.

Also available...

• The Howden Moor Incident by Dr David Clarke and Martin Jeffrey: A case history of the March 1997 Pennine UFO crash.
• Cosmic Crashes by Nick Redfern: A book on alien crashes.
• Operation Thunderchild by Nick Pope: A paperback novel.
• Visitations by Peter Hough: A paperback book.
• Supernatural Causes? by Peter Hough and Jenny Randles: A book exploring supernatural phenomena.
• The Star gate Conspiracy: A book suggesting a conspiracy involving ancient Egyptian gods and artificial wormholes.

Investigation: Latest UFO sightings

• Rendlesham Ramblings: Discusses the Rendlesham Forest incident, with a local police officer, Dave King, breaking his silence to suggest the lighthouse was mistaken for a UFO. The article questions this interpretation, noting that King was not present during the sighting and that the USAF might have perceived something more than just a beacon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Northern UFO News revolve around the evolution and future of UFOlogy, the role of media in shaping public perception, and the importance of rigorous investigation and objectivity. The editorial stance, particularly in Jenny Randles' pieces, advocates for a more professional, evidence-based approach to UFO research, moving away from sensationalism and towards a deeper understanding of the phenomenon. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between genuine UFO cases and misidentifications or hoaxes, and on fostering a community of researchers dedicated to rational inquiry. The magazine also highlights the historical context of UFOlogy, celebrating its own 25-year legacy while acknowledging the contributions of various researchers and publications.

Title: Northern UFO News
Issue: 15
Date: 1999 (based on content, cover date is a range of page numbers)
Publisher: Northern UFO News
Country: UK
Language: English

This issue of Northern UFO News delves into various UFO phenomena reported across the United Kingdom, with a particular focus on radar cases, military encounters, and sightings of unusual aerial craft.

New Radar Case from Scotland

The lead article details a significant radar case from Saxa Vord, Shetland Islands, during the winter of 1964/5. A radar observer identified a stationary target at 20,000 feet, which was not identifiable as a friendly aircraft. As the target moved slowly towards the Scottish coast, two RAF Lightning jets were scrambled. However, the target reacted by shooting vertically upwards at incredible speed, vanishing from height-finding radar at around 100,000 feet. The radar operators were reportedly dismayed by this event. The article draws parallels to similar cases, including one over the Solent in August 1956 involving two Lightnings and a metal disc, and another involving a Canberra aircraft. It also notes a similar pattern in a 1990 wave over the Wash, detected by modern radar and pursued by RAF Phantom jets.

Military Witness Surfaces

The magazine reports on a new military witness who has provided information about an encounter near the same location as the infamous Burroughs-Penniston sighting. This witness, referred to as 'A', and a colleague were on patrol near the Woodbridge East Gate at 2 am during the height of the 1980 east coast wave. They observed a light appear over the coast, cross the forest, and head west. The light then exploded silently, splitting into three pieces and making sudden sharp turns before streaking away. No sound was reported. This incident is suggested to correlate with radar tracking at Neatishead and RAF jet intercepts over the Wash, possibly occurring earlier than the main December sightings.

A Plague of UFOs

This section revisits a case that came to light following the ITV series 'Origin Unknown'. Mr and Mrs R reported a series of experiences in the Hope Valley, including a green light over Peveril Castle in 1980. A more significant encounter occurred near Tideswell in 1968 when they saw a bright light, initially mistaken for a star, which remained in the sky for 20 minutes. Later, they observed what appeared to be a 'building' in a field, described as having a rounded or domed appearance with large square windows emitting white light and a low humming noise. Upon returning in daylight, no building was present, leading them to suspect they had witnessed a UFO landing.

Out of Body UFO Abduction

This article recounts the experience of Mrs B, who, in 1977, began experiencing regular out-of-body experiences (OOBEs) after seeing a white light. In 1996, she had a powerful OOBE where she saw a UFO with flashing orange and white lights over her garden. An entity communicated telepathically, insisting she accompany him to the UFO. She 'floated' through the window and lost awareness until returning to her body. She recalls an impression that they needed her, not her family, and that they were 'benevolent'. The entity was described as humanoid with a small stature. Mrs B has since suffered from severe insomnia and lives in perpetual fear. Her young son has also begun to refer to a 'man' in the room, adding to her distress.

UFO Sightings and Cases

The issue includes several brief reports of UFO sightings:

• Case 9128 (April 1991): Two brothers and two friends camping near Tebay, Cumbria, saw a white LITS that performed impossible flight paths for two hours.
• Case 9629 (October 1996): Ms K in Beswick, Manchester, saw a large, dull silver triangle with three lights and a neon strip.
• Case 9801 (January 1998): A triangle-shaped UFO with a red glow in its base was observed hovering over the M56 near Preston Brook, Cheshire, before speeding away.
• Guardians of the Motorway: This section discusses the phenomenon of strange hovering craft seen over motorways, citing a case from the Wirral in May 1980 and comparing it to the M56 sighting. It speculates on whether these are secret aircraft or time travel vehicles.
• Warp Factor Bridlington (October 1998): S & D in Bridlington, North Yorks, witnessed a blinding star that rocketed across the sky, leaving a wake of shimmering light, described as 'like the warp drive on Star Trek'. This is suggested to be a bright meteor.
• Mid Air Encounter over Scotland (March 1999): A Loganair flight pilot reported visual contacts that ATC could not detect on radar near Rannoch.
• Wave of Triangles over East Midlands (April 1999): Multiple sightings of large, oval or triangular craft with flashing lights were reported in Strelley, Nottingham, and Belper, Derbyshire. One craft was described as glowing bright orange with white portholes.

Jet Encounters UFO - or does it?

This report by Dr David Clark and Clas Svahn investigates a close encounter case from February 1999 involving a Debonair Bae 146 aircraft flying from Sweden to Humberside Airport. The media reported a 'cylindrical silver-coloured object' the size of a battleship' flying alongside the plane. However, investigations by Clarke and Svahn revealed that the official report described a 'mandatory occurrence report' for an 'unidentified aircraft light', not a UFO. The CAA justified not investigating further as there was no danger to aircraft or passengers. The MoD stated they learned of the case via press stories and dismissed the idea that their radar could detect anything far from the UK. Humberside Airport suggested the UFO was a light reflection. Clas Svahn checked with SAS and Danish CAA, tracing the incident to 58 miles off the Danish coast. The 'battleship' description is attributed to how weather radar works, which can detect large masses like ships. Professor Bertil Lindblad suggested the object could have been a meteor creating an ionized trail. The authors conclude that the press coverage overemphasized the value of this case.

This Just In...

This section provides brief updates:

• Best wishes are extended to Philip Mantle, who suffered a heart attack.
• 'Beyond' magazine is praised for its visual quality and diverse articles.
• A book titled 'The Stargate Conspiracy' is mentioned.
• An offer for a 'sub orbital flight' in 2001, including a zero-G wedding, is noted.

Coming Attractions

This section lists upcoming events:

• October 2: BUFORA lecture by Jon Dowries at the University of Westminster, London.
• November 6: Rock star and UFOlogist Reg Presley speaking at the University of Westminster.
• October 23: Questing Conference 'Alternative Egypt 99' at the Institute of Education, London, featuring Colin Wilson and Robert Temple.
• October 24: SUFOG event with Graham Birdsall in Southampton.
• November 11: Jenny Randies discussing the supernatural at Buxton Library.
• June/July 2000: Derbyshire Arts Millennium festival lectures by Jenny Randies on UFOs and the paranormal.
• November 24: 'UFOs Fact Not Fiction' evening in Falkirk with Billy Buchanan.

Groups in Northern Britain

A list of UFO groups in Northern Britain is provided, including SPI Scotland, SEMR, Haunted Scotland, SRUFO, NUFORI, Connect, UFO Network, YUFOS, NLUFOIG, LUFOS, LAPIS, MARA, PRA, and SUFOG, with their respective locations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the persistent reporting of unusual aerial phenomena, particularly radar-detected objects and triangular craft. There's a consistent focus on military involvement and the challenges of obtaining credible information from official sources. The magazine appears to maintain a critical stance towards sensationalized media reporting, as seen in the 'Jet Encounters UFO' article, while still presenting a wide array of witness accounts and investigative efforts. The editorial stance seems to be one of diligent investigation and a desire to uncover the truth behind these phenomena, often highlighting discrepancies between official statements and witness testimonies.