Pegasus - Vol 01 No 3 September 1969

Magazine Overview

Title: PEGASUS
Issue: Vol. I No. 3
Date: September, 1969
Publisher: SURREY INVESTIGATION GROUP
Focus: Monthly Journal on Aerial Phenomena

Editorial

The editorial, written by Ron Toft, reflects on the significance of the National Space and UFO Convention held the previous month. Toft criticizes the public's implicit belief in often ridiculous official explanations for UFOs and the derogatory media coverage that leads to ridicule. He highlights the convention as a crucial attempt to bring the UFO mystery to public attention, despite a lack of support from many UFO organizations. Mike Parry of the Interplanetary Space Travel Research Group (U.K.) is credited with organizing the event almost single-handedly. Toft expresses dismay at the absence of major groups like BUFORA and criticizes the inclusion of fringe organizations such as Lunic Enterprises and the Scientology Foundation, suggesting they detract from the scientific credibility of the event. He emphasizes the need to present UFOs in a scientific, rather than religious, context to gain public interest.

Universe as Intelligent Computer: Dr. David Foster's Theory

This section introduces the theory of Dr. David Foster, an automation expert and cybernetician, who posits that the entire Universe is a vast, living entity of pure intelligence, akin to a living electronic computer. This theory, developed over 30 years, is set to be published in two books: "The Intelligent Universe" and "The Immortal Robot." Dr. Foster will present his findings at the 1st International Cybernetics Congress in London. He expresses apprehension about his theory, as it could bridge the gap between science and religion, a prospect he finds both potentially groundbreaking and responsibility-laden. Foster's ideas were influenced by his work in cybernetics and data processing, leading him to realize that electronic computing relies on representing data as electrical patterns, mirroring the Universe's characteristics. He identifies Planck's Constant as a fundamental electrical wave, a "cosmic binary digit."

Dr. Foster draws parallels between his theory and developments in molecular biology, particularly DNA as an "information complex." He argues that differences in living organisms are essentially data differences encoded in atomic patterns. At a British Association meeting, he concluded that the Universe might be a construction of pure intelligence, posing the question, "Who programmes the programmes?"

UFOs Over Scandinavia and Dorset Landing

This section reports on UFO activity in Scandinavia during 1968, with a total of 96 sightings recorded across Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. The largest UFO organization in the region, "Scandinavian UFO Information" (SUFOI), founded in 1957, represents over 5,000 members.

A separate report details a claimed flying-saucer landing in Dorset, United Kingdom, on August 29. A couple, who wished to remain anonymous, reported seeing a glowing, translucent, elliptical object land on army ranges. They observed tripod-like legs descending from the object. The following day, the woman found several large holes (9-12 inches in diameter) in the ground, consistent with landing gear. Dorset police confirmed a similar pattern of holes found at Badbury Rings, described as having a central narrow shaft and appearing to be made by a cylindrical object, with no removed earth left behind.

National Space and UFO Convention Report by Ron Toft

Ron Toft also reports on the National Space and UFO Convention, attended by Dr. Frank E. Stranges, described as a world authority on UFOs. Dr. Stranges presented a case for the extra-terrestrial origin of UFOs, tracing their history from ancient civilizations. He emphasized that UFOs are seen by people from all walks of life and are not limited to a specific demographic. Dr. Stranges recounted an incident where a U.S. military radar tracked a UFO measuring 14 miles long. He also cited the Bible, specifically the Book of Ezekiel, to draw parallels with descriptions of UFOs, such as "a wheel within a wheel" and "eyes" that could be interpreted as windows.

Dr. Stranges discussed the suppression of UFO information by authorities, citing a U.S. Air Force regulation that could lead to severe penalties for military pilots who report sightings. He recounted a personal anecdote from 1945 where pilots were told that UFOs they witnessed were actually high-flying Canadian geese, despite their described speed and altitude. He investigated this incident further, confirming the pilots' accounts.

Dr. Stranges also addressed the possibility of UFOs being Soviet secret weapons, arguing against it due to their extreme speeds and maneuverability, which he believes are beyond current technological capabilities. He proposed that the most sensible explanation is an outer-space origin. He mentioned possessing pieces of metal from a UFO that exploded over South America, which allegedly contain high levels of beryllium and titanium, presented as evidence at a Congressional hearing.

Following his lecture, Dr. Stranges visited various convention stands, including SIGAP's. Other speakers included Arthur Shuttlewood, Evangelist Peter Scothern, and Reg Holdaway. Mike Parry reiterated his disappointment with the low turnout of "true" UFO groups and announced plans for a massive publicity campaign, aiming to increase SIGAP's membership to 3,000 and launch reports in major newspapers. He also mentioned plans for future talks at Caxton Hall and potential collaboration with other organizations like BUFORA or CONTACT U.K.

The Duke of Bedford sent a goodwill message, expressing his interest in space and the possibility of extraterrestrial life, and made his grounds available to support the convention.

Newspaper Clippings

The editor requests members to send in clippings of newspaper or magazine articles related to UFOs and related topics, particularly from local sources, which are often difficult to obtain.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the promotion and discussion of UFO phenomena, the organization and challenges of UFO conventions, and the scientific and societal implications of potential extraterrestrial intelligence. The editorial stance, as expressed by Ron Toft, is one of advocating for a serious, scientific approach to UFO research, combating public ridicule, and encouraging open reporting of sightings while being critical of unsubstantiated or fringe elements within the UFO community. There is a strong emphasis on the need for evidence and a critical examination of explanations, whether official or anecdotal.

'Pegasus' is the Monthly Journal of the Surrey Investigation Group On Aerial Phenomena (SIGAP). This issue, identified by page number '-8-' and '-9-', features a mix of letters, articles, news items, and organizational information. The publication is edited by Ron Toft and printed by SIGAP. Articles for publication are welcomed, and views expressed are not necessarily those of the SIGAP Executive Committee. Individual copies are available for 1s 6d plus postage.

Letters to the Editor

Two letters offer perspectives on UFO research. Mr. D. I. Simpson, Chairman of the Society for the Investigation of Unidentified Flying Object Phenomena, expresses interest in 'Pegasus' but puzzles over Peter Hill's letter regarding the Condon Committee's Report. Simpson questions the preference for a Soviet physicist's opinion over American ones and wonders if the conclusion sought was that UFOs originate from unknown planets.

Mr. John Adams, a SIGAP Consultant, suggests that the Condon project's primary goal was securing a contract for the college. He notes that while individual case studies were conducted by investigators, the finding that evidence disintegrates upon critical examination is general. Adams believes a formal project is not the best approach due to its erratic nature, suggesting that amateurs can provide wider coverage and a more consistent contribution, similar to their role in fields like aurora research and satellite tracking.

History of Flying Saucers: Part 3. Project Bluebook

This section, written by Ron Toft, details the history of Project Bluebook. In September 1951, Captain E. J. Ruppelt was appointed head of this Air Force UFO research group. Between 1951 and 1953, Ruppelt and his team analyzed thousands of reports. Their conclusions, presented in a report not made public, suggested improvements for Project Bluebook. Ruppelt's published version in 1956 stated that UFOs were not extra-terrestrial but recommended enlarging and better equipping the project. A 1958 Air Force report concluded that UFOs were not 'foreign artifacts capable of hostile behaviour'.

The article notes that unofficial research groups emerged globally, divided into serious researchers and 'occult ones' who claimed telepathic contact with extraterrestrials. These claims, along with media portrayals of saucers piloted by 'little green men', deterred witnesses. Serious researchers found UFOs were present continuously, not just in 'waves', and it was a matter of encouraging people to speak.

News Items and Briefs

STRANGE CREATURE SEEN: Three workmen near Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, reported seeing a humanoid creature nearly three times the size of an average man, about 15 feet tall, black, and with round shoulders. Indians working on the Big Horn dam claim a family of four such humanoids live in the area.

SATELLITE NEWS by Tim Childerhouse: The PAGEOS geodetic satellite, a 100-foot sphere used for mapping, is described as moving slowly and becoming visible in the night sky. Its brightness varies from magnitude three to five over about three minutes, indicating it resembles a rugby football measuring 26 by 18 metres. Launched in 1966, PAGEOS, along with ECHO I and ECHO II, is part of the European Satellite Triangulation Network. It orbits at 4,500 kilometres and is expected to remain in orbit for another 20 years.

NEXT MEETING: SIGAP will hold a film evening on October 7 at the Plastic Coatings Factory, Guildford, starting at 8 p.m.

NEW MAGAZINE: The Mexican branch of the Aerial Phenomena Research Organisation has launched a bi-monthly bulletin called "Boletin De Apro Mexico," edited by Jesus Garibay. The first issue notes that official Mexican institutions appear 'totally indifferent' to UFOs.

HYNEK LOSES JOB: Dr. Allen Hynek, an astronomer and UFO consultant to the United States Air Force for 21 years, has reportedly lost his position. The official reason for the non-renewal of his contract is unknown.

NEW BOOK: A new paperback book titled "UFOs The Whole Story" by Jim and Coral Lorenzen of APRO has been published in America and is expected to be available in the UK soon.

SUPER MICROSCOPE: Russia has announced the development of a super electron microscope capable of magnifying nearly four million times to view individual atoms.

SIGAP Information

The magazine provides contact details for SIGAP's Editor (Ron Toft), Chairman (Omar Fowler), Secretary (Dick Beet), and Treasurer (Mrs. Jean Fowler). Committee members are also listed. Membership is 15s per year for ordinary members and 12s for junior members (14-16 years). The SIGAP Board of Consultants includes experts in various fields such as Optical Physics, Space & Satellite Research, Theology, Psychology, Meteorology, and Exobiology.

Agents Wanted

SIGAP is seeking area agents to distribute at least five copies of 'Pegasus' monthly to members living nearby. They are also looking for individuals who can sell copies to friends, relatives, or organizations. A commission of sixpence is offered per copy sold, with volunteers encouraged to donate their commission to group funds.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the ongoing debate and investigation into UFO phenomena. There's a clear distinction drawn between serious, scientific research and more speculative or 'occult' approaches. The magazine highlights the importance of amateur groups in contributing to research, contrasting their efforts with formal, potentially contract-driven projects like the Condon Committee. The editorial stance appears to favor empirical investigation and encourages public participation through SIGAP's activities and distribution network. The inclusion of news from international UFO organizations and scientific developments suggests a broad interest in the field.