Orbiter - No 21 - 1989

Magazine Overview

Title: ORBITER
Issue: #21
Date: November/December 1989
Publisher: The New England Aerial Phenomena Report

Commentary by Jim Melesciuc

Jim Melesciuc opens the issue with a commentary on the prevalence of 'unusual lights' and 'curious light forms' in UFO reports, noting that approximately 90% fall into this category. He highlights the challenge for investigators in explaining these phenomena, which may include rare natural events that science has not fully understood. Two historical accounts are presented: one from 1961 in Cheltenham, England, where Mrs. Doris Will witnessed a 'fireball' that followed her through her house before expiring with a 'crash like thunder'; and another from France in 1852, where a 'fireball' entered a room, interacted with the witness, and disappeared up a chimney. Melesciuc points out that while ball lightning is often associated with electrical storms, it can also occur in clear skies. He also mentions various other unexplained luminous phenomena reported globally, such as the 'money lights' in Peru, 'Brown Mountain lights' in North Carolina, and 'min min' lights in Australia. He concludes by emphasizing the importance for UFO researchers to be informed about rare natural events that have likely occurred throughout history.

From The Letter Box

This section features a letter from former Bluebook Chief Dewey Fournet, responding to material used by Major Donald Keyhoe in his book "Aliens from Space." Fournet clarifies his interactions with Keyhoe, stating that in mid-1952, the USAF adopted a policy of releasing unclassified UFO information. He acknowledges Keyhoe's aggressiveness and knowledge of aviation but expresses reservations about the sensational speculation in his writing. Fournet recounts a meeting with Keyhoe after leaving the USAF, advising him to focus on factual material. He denies any involvement in a scheme to release UFO material wholesale or a proposed press conference, attributing Keyhoe's claims of his leadership role to a misunderstanding, possibly influenced by others. Fournet categorically denies statements suggesting he, along with Chop and Ruppelt, were involved in such a plan, and states he would not have joined NICAP without a public retraction if he had known of these claims earlier.

* UFO TRIVIA *

• Q: What two countries printed Apollo 11 UFO postage stamps? A: Argentina and Ecuador.
• Q: The term "UFO" was coined by this USAF officer? A: Edward J. Ruppelt.

Case Report: New Hampshire UFO Sighting

This report details a sighting on October 12, 1989, in East Kingston, NH, by a mother and her 17-year-old daughter. They observed 4-5 round objects, pulsating with white to pale bluish-green light, flying overhead in a tight formation at an estimated distance of 1/2 to 1 mile. The objects' speed was unknown, and they did not emit sound or vapor trails. The witnesses felt the objects were flying independently. The investigator, Rick Giordano, gave high marks to the witnesses for honesty.

Update on Otis AFB Report

This section provides an update on a previously reported sighting at Otis AFB, Cape Cod, MA. Patrolman Jones was contacted regarding an incident on May 28, 1989. Sgt. Trill observed a dark grey, noiseless sphere descending rapidly towards a field where a Huey helicopter was operating. The sphere made a 'check mark' maneuver near the helicopter before ascending and disappearing. Patrolman Jones described the object as silver, compact car-sized, and moving at very high speed. The sighting lasted about 1-2 minutes, and a search of the area by Trill, Jones, and another patrolman yielded no results.

Luminous Phenomena and Earthquakes by Chris Rutkowski

This article explores the proposed relationship between UFOs and earthquakes, focusing on the Tectonic Strain Theory (TST). The theory suggests that luminous phenomena are produced by underground stresses within rock, and that UFOs are manifestations of these stresses. Michael Persinger and Paul Devereux are identified as key proponents. The article notes that while many scientific articles discuss the link between UFOs and earthquakes, the TST has not been scientifically refereed in its entirety. It mentions that earthquake lights are not well understood by scientists and may be related to static discharge or electromagnetic effects. Brian Brady's research on spark-like luminosities produced during rock breakage is also cited. The article questions the value of correlations between UFOs and seismic data, especially when considering the large time and distance windows used by TST proponents. It highlights that while 95% of UFOs are explainable, the remaining 5% remain a mystery. The article critiques the UFOCAT database used by TST proponents, noting its flaws for statistical analysis. It also discusses studies by J.S. Accetta, which searched for correlations between UFOs and geomagnetic events, using stringent criteria for case selection.

The article further examines the contention that UFOs are variances of the same phenomena as earthquake lights. It references a large earthquake in Quebec, Canada, and reports of unusual lights and UFOs in surrounding areas, which TST proponents used to support their theory. However, the article points out that UFOs have been regularly reported in New York and Pennsylvania for years, suggesting that the TST's explanation of a 'strain field' might be too broad. The lack of a definite one-to-one correspondence between UFO data and seismic events is noted, with 'lag' or 'lead' times of several months and distances of hundreds of kilometers being used in correlations. The article questions the fairness of comparing atmospheric phenomena like 'El Nino' to UFO sightings. It concludes by asking whether a physical mechanism for TST-produced UFOs actually exists.

Critiques and Further Research on TST

This section continues the discussion on the Tectonic Strain Theory (TST), noting that early studies focused on seismically-active regions. A study in the Unitah Basin found correlations between UFOs and seismic events, but the article suggests these UFOs might have been misidentified insects. The Carman, Manitoba, area is discussed as a case where hundreds of UFOs were correlated with distant earthquakes, despite the region being seismically inactive. TST advocates explain this by suggesting underground rock stress transmitted energy over long distances. However, critics question why the UFO flap didn't occur closer to the epicenter and why seismic energy is felt as tremors in one region but observed as lights in another.

The article emphasizes the absence of a clear physical mechanism for the TST, although geophysical evidence for electromagnetic energy production by seismic events and rock stress exists. Laboratory experiments have produced glows and spark-like luminosities during rock failure, but extrapolating this to natural environments is challenging. The possibility of UFOs being produced by minor earth tremors is raised, but the detectability of such tremors is questioned.

A proposed test by Greg Long to observe inactive regions for UFO absence is mentioned, but TST advocates reportedly dismiss it by extending the 'strain radius' to accommodate distant tremors. The article concludes that there is no indisputable test for the TST, which proponents claim can explain all forms of UFO phenomena, including abductions and psychic events. However, it suggests that the TST might be useful in explaining some kinds of earthquake lights and nocturnal lights near fracture zones, and importantly, it draws scientific attention to UFOs.

The article quotes a passage from a new TST paper by Derr and Persinger, acknowledging problems with retrospective statistical correlations and the lack of knowledge regarding the energy source, its conduction, focusing, and duration. The passage also highlights the anecdotal, incomplete, and subjective nature of the 'LP data base' and the potential for 'noise' from large analysis areas. The article concludes that while TST proponents have done extensive work, the theory is not yet fully proven and requires further research by unbiased investigators.

References

A comprehensive list of references is provided, citing numerous articles and books related to TST, UFOs, seismic phenomena, and related scientific research. Key authors include M.A. Persinger, P. Devereux, J.S. Accetta, and G. Long.

Radio TV Log

This section logs UFO-related media appearances and broadcasts in November 1989:

• November 6: Whitley Strieber was a guest on WBZ radio (Boston) on The David Brudnoy Show.
• November 8: Whitley Strieber and Christopher Walken were guests on ABC's Good Morning America.
• November 12: "Current Affair" carried a segment on the S.C. video.
• November 20: CBS's "Hard Copy" aired segments on the UFO Phenomena (Part 1).
• November 21: NBC's "People Are Talking" featured a discussion on UFOs.
• November 21: CBS's "Hard Copy" (Part 2) dealt with UFO-related events, including cattle mutilations and mystery circles.

Reprints of Articles

The issue includes reprints of two articles from the journal "Nature" from 1877 and 1880. The first, titled "Curious Electric Phenomenon," describes a series of fireballs observed near Leicester, England, following a thunderstorm. The second, "Strange Star. - Meteor," details observations of a large deep red star and a fine meteor.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme of this issue is the exploration of potential links between unexplained aerial phenomena (UFOs) and natural geophysical events, particularly seismic activity. The Tectonic Strain Theory (TST) is a central focus, with both its proponents and critics being presented. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, acknowledging the validity of scientific investigation into UFOs while also highlighting the need for rigorous methodology, clear physical mechanisms, and unbiased data analysis. The inclusion of historical accounts, case reports, and media logs suggests a broad approach to understanding the UFO phenomenon. The editor, Jim Melesciuc, is presented as a proponent of serious UFO research, as indicated by his commentary and the publication's focus.

This document contains two pages from a publication, likely a magazine or newsletter, dated December 1982 (page 2) and an article from The New York Times dated December 2, 1967 (page 1). The primary focus of the 1967 article is a report on Soviet astronomer Prof. Feliks Zigel's call for a global scientific study of unidentified flying objects (UFOs).

Soviet UFO Plan: World Study of Flying Saucers (The New York Times, December 2, 1967)

Soviet Astronomer's Proposal

The article, by Henry Kamm, Special to The New York Times, details Prof. Feliks Zigel of the Moscow Aviation Institute's proposal for a worldwide scientific effort to determine the nature of unidentified flying objects. Zigel expressed "profound respect" for American scientists who take the UFO problem seriously, noting that they face difficulties and ridicule, which he believes alienates the public from science. He urged the public to make careful observations, take photographs, and collect any physical evidence.

Observations and Characteristics

Professor Zigel reported on several Soviet sightings. The most characteristic object was described as a "luminous orange-colored crescent flying with its outward bend forward." Its surface was slightly duller than the moon, and its horns sometimes emitted jets with sparks. The outer contour of the crescent was sharp, while the inner contour was blurred and wavy. In some cases, the crescent was preceded by a disk. One sighting in Ukraine involved a crescent object that, when approached by a plane, changed course and flew parallel to it at equal speed before "melting in the blue of the sky." Another observer, a navigator of civil polar aviation, reported seeing a "big pearl-colored lens" flying parallel to his plane over Greenland.

Scientific and Public Response

Zigel cautioned that reports "certainly need verification." Astronomers in Kazan reportedly set the diameter of observed crescents at 500 to 600 meters (1,640 to 1,840 feet) and their speed at about five kilometers (3.1 miles) per second. He also described daytime sightings. Zigel's statement was intended for distribution by Novosti, an official Soviet agency.

Parallels with U.S. Interest

The article draws parallels with growing interest in the U.S. It mentions Dr. James E. McDonald, an atmospheric physicist at the University of Arizona, who has been making a similar plea for study. McDonald believes that visits from another world are the least satisfactory explanation for UFOs, if the laws of physics are valid.

Dr. J. Allen Hynek, director of Northwestern University's Dearborn Observatory, expressed a more moderate view, suggesting that governments and scientific communities should regard UFO reports as a serious scientific challenge rather than ridiculing them. Hynek has served as an advisor to the Air Force on UFO sightings.

In the U.S., a private investigation group, the National Investigation, has been organized by retired Marine Corps officer Maj. Donald E. Keyoe. The article also notes that the Air Force contracted the University of Colorado in 1966 to conduct an independent investigation, with access to laboratories and specialists.

Skepticism and Official Stance

Despite these efforts, the article notes that the overwhelming majority of scientists believe most UFO sightings can be explained by natural or man-made phenomena, and the rest cannot be explained simply for lack of adequate information. Interviews with Soviet scientific leaders revealed little interest in UFOs, with many listening to Western news broadcasts. The Soviet press is described as being almost as cluttered with man-made objects as the skies, and they do not have access to popular media like "Star Trek" or "Lost in Space."

Official Commission Status

Subsequent reports indicated that a retired Air Force general, Maj. Gen. Porfiry A. Stolyarov, who was rumored to be heading an official commission to study UFO reports, had spoken prematurely. The commission had not yet come into existence and might not do so in a permanent and official form, with General Stolyarov reportedly ill.

Zigel's Hypothesis

Professor Zigel's main task, he stated, is to organize systematic study of the phenomena from astronomical and meteorological observatories. He believes it may become possible to determine if the objects are of plasmionic origin or from another planet. He considers the extraterrestrial hypothesis worthy of serious consideration.

Editorial Comment and Second Page Content

The editor's comment notes the relevance of these 1967 clippings to more recent UFO occupant reports from the USSR in mid-October. The second page contains a holiday greeting from "the readers of Orbiter" wishing a happy holiday season and a prosperous new year, signed "Jon Mihan." Below this is a cartoon by "Rico" depicting a flying saucer beaming light down on three figures in a desert landscape, with the caption, "Just who are those guys? They've been following us for days!"

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of the 1967 article is the scientific investigation of UFOs, the challenges posed by skepticism, and the importance of public observation. It highlights a Soviet astronomer's call for international cooperation and contrasts it with the prevailing scientific attitudes in both the Soviet Union and the United States. The editorial comment suggests a continuity in the Soviet press's treatment of UFO phenomena over two decades, linking it to contemporary reports. The overall stance of the 1967 article is informative, presenting Zigel's views and observations while acknowledging the skepticism and official stances of the time. The 1982 page appears to be a lighthearted holiday message and cartoon, unrelated to the main UFO topic.