Pegasus - 1980 September-October

Magazine Overview

Title: PEGASUS
Issue: September/October 1980
Publisher: Surrey Investigation Group
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of PEGASUS, the journal of the Surrey Investigation Group in Aerial Phenomena, covers a period of heightened UFO activity following a previous editorial noting a quiet spell. The magazine features several detailed reports of sightings and incidents, alongside an ongoing theoretical exploration of the potential physiological effects of UFO encounters.

Editorial Note

The editorial, signed by O.F., notes that the magazine's recent content may have spurred further UFO activity, with several events covered in this issue and more promised for the future. It acknowledges the potential for these stories to be picked up by national newspapers, cautioning that sensationalism might compromise accuracy and that witnesses rarely get the opportunity to set the record straight. The editor expresses a pragmatic approach to dealing with the press.

Contents This Month

The issue includes the following articles and features:

• Page 2/3: "CE1 Incident on the A3" (Cobham, Surrey)
• Page 4: "Mrs Duffy Incident" (Normandy, Surrey)
• Page 5: "Silver Ball Over Woking" (Woking, Surrey)
• Page 5: Next Meeting Details (Speaker: R. Colborne)
• Page 6/7: "The High Hurlands Mystery" (Bordon, Hants)
• Page 8/10: Manual of Psycho-Physiological Effects (Part 2)
• Page 11: "Tail Enders" (Film Review etc.)
• Page 11: "Sighting Over Mounts Bay" (From "The Cornishman")

CE1 Incident on the A3

This report details an incident on September 17, 1980, involving two witnesses, Mr. G.J. Moore and Mr. A. Johnstone, who were driving on the A3 South of Cobham towards Guildford. Around 00:30, they observed a brilliant, magnesium-coloured light in the sky at a low elevation (approx. 15°). As they approached, it became clear there were two lights close together, described as "spikey" rather than a soft glow. Mr. Moore pulled over, and they observed red and green lights on the sides, similar to aircraft lights. The object then moved across their path on a level plane at a slow speed, passing overhead at a height of a few hundred feet. Mr. Johnstone, initially skeptical, described the object as "absolutely massive" and felt a sense of "immense power." He estimated its length at least 200 feet based on the distance between the lights. The object had no discernible "glow" but its shape was judged by the light pattern: two white "headlamps" in front, red and green lights on the sides, amber lights at the tail, and a "rippling" series of amber, white, and blue lights underneath. The witnesses felt no effects like hair standing on end, and their car started immediately afterward without interference. The object was lost from sight over a nearby hill. The incident was reported to Epsom Police Station and interviewed by O.Fowler on September 21, 1980.

The Mrs Duffy Incident

This report, taken from a tape transcription of an interview with Mrs. Duffy, details an incident that occurred in early September 1980 (possibly between the 1st and 4th). Mrs. Duffy, her sister, and son saw three "orange-green" globes hovering over nearby trees for about 20 minutes. The middle light switched off, and the others moved behind the trees. Separately, Mrs. Duffy recounted an experience from the previous winter, occurring around 1 a.m. She awoke and looked out the window, seeing what appeared to be a "big bus" with illuminated windows and people inside, across the road. She then found herself in a small, bright room with no doors or windows, and a tall figure appeared, placing an arm around her reassuringly. She sensed she would not be harmed and felt warm. She woke up in bed, feeling she had been on a spaceship. She noted the size of the phenomenon and the lack of noise, describing it as "queer." The report invites theories from readers.

Silvery Ball Over Woking

This report, received following local newspaper publicity about the A3 case, details a sighting by Miss Ruth Kearney on Saturday, September 13, 1980, at 8:45 p.m. from her bedroom window in Woking. She observed a bright, sparkling, silvery light in the S.E. sky, unlike anything she had seen before. The sky was clear with a few stars and a new moon. There was no wind, and the object was sharply defined, appearing as a ball. It remained stationary for about half an hour. Miss Kearney's mother also observed it. The light then began to climb upwards, moving "smoothly, not jerking or darting," and twinkling. It appeared to be coming towards the house. Both witnesses ran downstairs and into the garden but could not see it. Ruth stated it was too big and slow to have flown away in that time.

Next Meeting Details

The next meeting of the group was scheduled for November 19, 1980, at the Prospect Club, Prospect Road, Ash Vale, at 8 p.m. Entrance was free. The speaker was Richard Colborne, who had recently returned from Mexico and intended to present disturbing theories about "Classic" South American cases based on his studies there.

The Mystery of "High Hurlands" Hospital

This article investigates strange happenings around a small private hospital near Bordon, Hampshire, which caters for mentally handicapped children. The first witness, Mrs. Diane Edworthy, on duty with nurse "Cathy" on the night of October 9/10, 1980, reported hearing a loud "humming sound" around midnight, though she initially dismissed it. Later, while doing rounds, they saw bright lights in the sky. They observed a light moving slowly across the sky, then a "huge star" at the front of the house. This object changed colour from white to blue, described as "exploding," then stabilized for twenty minutes before changing colour again over 45 minutes (blue to red, green, orange, white). At 00:45 on October 10, they saw "flashing lights" coming from the object, which descended towards them. They described the UFO as having a white light on top with flashing red and green lights underneath. The object remained over an orchard for about twenty minutes, appearing to spin or have twinkling lights. Mrs. Edworthy noted the "disco" light effect and the complete silence, ruling out a helicopter. Animal disturbance was noted: dogs "went mad" and cats had their fur standing on end. One mentally ill child became very disturbed. The object disappeared around 03:00. The report notes characteristics common to UFO CE1 incidents, including animal disturbance and light/colour changes, and the child's apparent sensing of the UFO's presence. Nurse Cathy also sensed a "humming sound."

"High Hurlands" Entity: A previous UFO event at the hospital in mid-July 1980 involved a UFO approaching within 30 feet of the ground and an entity appearing at a ground floor window. Police were called but found no trace of an intruder. This incident was to be described in full in the next issue.

Manual of Psycho-Physiological Effects (Part 2)

This section, continuing from a previous issue, explores hypothetical explanations for the psycho-physiological phenomena associated with UFO encounters. It is divided into two main hypotheses:

B - HYPOTHETICAL EXPLANATION OF THE PSYCHO-PHYSIOLOGICAL PHENOMENA

I - Electromagnetic radiations hypothesis:

• A) Known effects of radiation on human physiology:
• Infra-red and red light: Feeling of warmth, slight burns.
• Green light: Effects on the epiphysis (melatonin appearance), nervousness, appearance of seratoma, sleep, numbness, itching, fainting.
• Blue light and ultra-violet: Effects on the hypothalamus (seratoma appearance), general weakness, excess of vitamin D2, nausea, effects on human tissues (bloody-skin, secretion of fluid, capillary inflammation), burns.
• B) Coherent light (Laser): Effects depend on laser beam power (mW to tens of MW), causing burns, optical injury, and metabolic alterations. The case of Trancas, Argentina (October 1753) is cited.
• C) High frequency waves (300 to 200,000 MHz): Causes feeling of warmth, skin burns, skeletal alterations (bone marrow transformation), cataracts, and severe intestinal injuries (perforation and peritonitis).

The text notes that a big concentration of light and intensity is necessary to provoke pronounced physiological effects in a short time. It suggests visible light might be used in association with invisible waves (X-rays, gamma rays, etc.). While electromagnetic radiation is a focus, numerous points remain unexplained, and the full effects of great electromagnetic fields on human and animal physiology are not yet fully known. Research suggests EM fields can interfere with oneiric activity (dreams).

II - Ionizing radiation hypothesis:

• Types: X-rays, gamma rays, alpha and beta rays, neutrons, and other types of radiation.
• Known effects on human physiology: Feeling of warmth, burns, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, prickling, itching, quivering, haemorrhage or blood cell changes/damage, cancer, degenerate mutations, death. Some effects can appear with a dose of 100 Rad.

Effects of ionised radiation are divided into two groups:

• a) Acute irradiation: Three syndromes are described: 1. Cerebral syndrome (high doses of millions of Rad): nausea, vomiting, apathy, prostration, convulsions, ataxia, death. 2. Gastric-intestinal syndrome (600-1500 Rad): nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, cardio-vascular arrest, death. 3. Haematopoietic syndrome (600-800 Rad): anorexia, nausea, vomiting, with a pause in symptoms for 24-36 hours.
• b) Long-term effects: Mentioned but not detailed in this excerpt.

The section concludes by stating that visible rays might be used with invisible waves, and that while EM radiation is a hypothesis, many points remain unexplained.

Tail Enders

This section includes a brief mention of a "Sighting Over Mounts Bay" from "The Cornishman," reporting that Mr. John Mathews (81) had seen bright orangey-yellow lights in the sky throughout August and September. The lights were cone-shaped with a bright light at the tip.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of PEGASUS are UFO sightings, witness testimonies, and the potential scientific explanations for these phenomena, particularly focusing on physiological effects. The editorial stance appears to be one of diligent investigation and reporting, with a cautious awareness of media sensationalism. The group aims to document sightings, analyze them, and explore theoretical frameworks, such as the impact of electromagnetic radiation and ionizing radiation, to understand these unexplained aerial phenomena. There is a clear emphasis on detailed case reports and a commitment to ongoing investigation, as indicated by the preview of future articles and the invitation for reader input.

This issue of PEGASUS magazine, identified by its issue number 11, delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena and related scientific hypotheses. It also includes a film review and information about a local UFO investigation group.

Hypotheses on Radioactivity and Atmospheric Ionization

The document presents two main hypotheses concerning potential causes and effects related to unidentified phenomena. The first, "Hypothesis of intoxication by radioactive materials," outlines immediate and long-term effects on the human body. Immediate effects include changes in blood corpuscles, such as leucocytosis, neutronenia, lymphopenia, and thrombopenia, leading to haemorrhages. Late effects can manifest as leukaemia, aplasia medullary, severe haemorrhage, and a diminished resistance to infection. Long-term consequences are listed as genetic mutations, leukaemia, cancer, cataracts, and various digestive disturbances. This section also mentions skeletal alteration and the development of pernicious bone tumours over 20 years, as well as aplastic anaemia and absence of leukaemia. Certain cases are explained by ionizing radiation action and intoxication by radioactive material, with examples from Falcon Lake and Reunion Island. Mutations in animals, such as abnormal pigmentation in slugs that can be passed to future generations (Brasey-en-Morvan), are also noted. Unexplained death cases in animals like cows and sheep are linked to the proximity of UFO landings. The document states that little is known about the effects of other types of ionizing radiation, such as cosmic ray particles and neutrons, on human and animal physiology.

The second hypothesis, "Hypothesis of atmospheric ionization," presents arguments in its favor. These include electromagnetic phenomena such as main power cuts, stoppage of car engines, interference in radio and TV reception, and magnetic after-effects. Other supporting points are marks on the ground with the presence of ions, an ozone smell, and the smell of sulphur, chlorine, or nitrous oxide. The continuation of this section is indicated on page 10.

Film Review: 'Special Edition of Close Encounters of the Third Kind'

The magazine features a review of Steven Spielberg's "Special Edition of Close Encounters of the Third Kind." The reviewer notes that while the film still has a confusing start with muffled sound in a sandstorm, the changes in the original film are evident. The middle sequences have been altered, and some slower parts have been cut, resulting in a better overall story flow. A bizarre incident has been added, involving the discovery of a freighter lost in the Bermuda Triangle in the middle of the Mongolian Desert, accompanied by screaming helicopters and jeeps. The fantastic ending is extended to include scenes shot inside the "mother ship," though these are brief. Some re-shot incidents in the middle of the film still appear to have been filmed with poor lighting and sound quality, suggesting amateur recording methods. Despite these points, the reviewer concludes that the changes are for the better and the film remains a "must" for ufologists.

New Contact and Radio Surrey

The magazine reports on a recent visit from Mr. B.T. Corbett of Haslemere, an area investigator for "Contact U.K." The publication expresses willingness to cooperate with other groups and exchange information on local sightings. Additionally, the Radio Weald Consortium is mentioned as having contacted the magazine regarding participation in their program activities if they are nominated as promoters for Radio Surrey. Readers are asked to fill in and return a questionnaire if they receive one.

Surrey Investigation Group on Aerial Phenomena (SIGAP)

This section details the Surrey Investigation Group on Aerial Phenomena (SIGAP), founded in 1967. SIGAP is a non-profit voluntary organization dedicated to studying unidentified flying object phenomena. They exchange magazines with various UFO organizations globally, including Northern UFOLOGY, BUFORA Journal, Quest, UFO Insight, SAPRT, CEFAI, MAPIT, UFO Network, GEP, UFO News Bulletin, National UFO Laboratory, and J.B. They also supply content to Flying Saucer Review, Radio 210, and Southern T.V. The magazine is published bi-monthly and is intended for SIGAP members, with copies available for purchase by non-members at a cost of 50 pence.

SIGAP's primary mission is to investigate UFO phenomena locally, initially focusing on Surrey and surrounding counties, but contributing to studies across Southern England. News of a sighting, often received through the SIGAP 'Hot-line' (Farnborough 41012), triggers a procedure to eliminate obvious explanations. The document states that over 80 percent of reports can be explained by natural or man-made phenomena. If no immediate explanation is found, SIGAP investigators interview witnesses and visit the observation site. The group then consults its own experts and liaises with similar organizations nationally and internationally. Their most significant reports are sent to the Center for UFO Studies in Evanston, Illinois, USA, which is run by Dr. J. Allen Hynek, a former consultant to the U.S. Air Force on UFOs.

The Group Secretary is Michael G. Prewett, residing at 20 Loman Road, Mytchett, Camberley, Surrey. The Chairman & Investigation Co-ordinator is Omar Fowler, located at 149 Mytchett Road, Mytchett, Camberley, Surrey.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, exploring potential physical and biological impacts of unexplained events, and critically reviewing media representations of UFOs. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging the collection and analysis of sighting reports, while also maintaining a grounded approach by seeking natural and man-made explanations for the majority of cases. The publication also emphasizes collaboration within the UFO research community and the importance of rigorous investigation, as exemplified by the detailed description of SIGAP's methodology.