Pegasus - Vol 03 No 1 Spring 1971

Magazine Overview

Title: PEGASUS
Issue: VOLUME 3 NO1
Date: SPRING 1971
Publisher: SURREY INVESTIGATION GROUP ON AERIAL PHENOMENA

This issue of PEGASUS, the journal of the Surrey Investigation Group on Aerial Phenomena, focuses on the implications of the Condon Report for UFO research and presents detailed case studies of unexplained aerial phenomena. The cover features a striking yin-yang symbol incorporating a planet and a flying saucer, with the main headline highlighting Pennsylvania UFO cases and their bearing on the Condon Report, authored by Professor James McDonald.

Editorial: The Wind of Change

The editorial discusses a perceived shift in UFO circles, with suggestions for a 'marriage' between UFO research and psychical research. John Keel is cited for his strong advocacy of this merger, arguing that ufology must embrace all paranormal manifestations. The author agrees in principle, emphasizing the need for ufologists to pay more attention to paranormal happenings, but questions the immediate need for ufology to be 'taken-over' by psychical research, stressing the requirement for more facts. The editorial notes that Keel's book, 'Strange Creatures From Time And Space,' explores the correlation between UFO activity, monsters, and phantoms in 'flap' areas. Charles Bowen of 'Flying Saucer Review' is quoted expressing potential distaste among investigators for such an alliance. The editorial concludes by noting that despite decades of UFO research, a clear overall picture of the phenomenon has yet to emerge.

The Nature of the Phenomenon: An Interdimensional Perspective

Ron Toft, the editor, contributes an article discussing the nature of UFOs. He acknowledges the abundance of descriptive material regarding UFO appearance and capabilities, such as fantastic speeds and abrupt turns, but laments the lack of understanding about the phenomenon's true nature. Toft critiques the prevailing hypothesis of UFOs being craft controlled by extraterrestrial beings, suggesting it needs radical revision. He posits that the phenomenon is far more complex and likely involves interdimensional travel. Toft points to the sudden appearance and disappearance of UFOs as evidence supporting this, likening it to materialization and dematerialization from our space-time continuum. He also suggests that UFOs might accidentally or intentionally trigger psychical phenomena. Toft asserts that an intelligence of an extremely high order is behind UFOs, viewing humanity as insignificant in comparison.

Some Pennsylvania UFO Cases and Their Bearing on the Condon Report

By Professor James McDonald

Professor James McDonald presents a critical analysis of the Condon Report, which was commissioned by the U.S. government to investigate Unidentified Flying Objects. McDonald expresses dismay that an independent panel endorsed Condon's negative conclusions, which he believes are not supported by the report's contents. He argues that UFO evidence calls for intensive scientific study, contrary to Condon's suggestions.

Case 1: Willow Grove, Pennsylvania (May 21, 1966)

McDonald details the sighting by William C. Powell, an experienced pilot, and his friend Miss Muriel S. McClave. While flying near Willow Grove, they observed an object that initially appeared to be an aircraft but then revealed itself as a disc-like device with a glistening white dome and a red conical apron. The object performed a sharp, non-banking turn and closed in on their aircraft. Powell estimated its speed at 200 mph and its diameter at 20 feet, while McClave estimated 40 feet. The object had no wings, tail, or propellers. It passed them at close range and then, according to the witnesses, instantaneously vanished from sight, not by acceleration out of view but by a sudden disappearance. Powell, initially reluctant to report due to fear of ridicule, eventually reported the incident through military channels, but received no satisfactory response. The case eventually came to the attention of NICAP.

McDonald emphasizes the credibility of the witnesses and the unusual nature of the object's disappearance. He contrasts this with the dismissive attitude of figures like Dr. Donald H. Menzel and Philip Klass, who have attempted to explain UFOs through conventional means.

The Air Force's Response and Project Bluebook

McDonald criticizes the Air Force's UFO program, Project Bluebook, for its 17-year history of superficial analysis and reliance on conventional explanations. He notes that despite numerous credible sightings, the Air Force consistently asserted that nothing defied explanation by current science and technology, a claim McDonald vehemently refutes. He points to the work of Dr. J. A. Hynek, a consultant who, in McDonald's view, has often glossed over or uncritically equated UFO evidence to conventional explanations. McDonald expresses frustration that the Air Force, influenced by bad scientific advice and the need to address public indignation (as seen with the 'swamp-gas' explanation for Michigan sightings), initiated the Condon Project, which he argues largely ignored past unexplained cases and focused on 'crackpot' theories.

Case 2: Juniata, Pennsylvania (August 27, 1956)

This case, classified as 'unidentified' by Project Bluebook, involved witness Mrs. R. S. P. She observed a brilliantly glowing object hovering about 15-20 feet above her backyard. The object, described as small (about one yard in diameter) and emitting a blinding bluish light, suddenly shot off at high speed with a humming noise. Mrs. P. reported a cold draft of air from the object. Investigators from a nearby Air Force radar unit interviewed her and filed a report to Project Bluebook. McDonald notes that single-witness cases hinge on witness reliability, and while Mrs. P.'s distance and size estimates were uncertain, her qualitative descriptions were clear. He questions whether the Air Force truly believes such phenomena are explainable by current science.

McDonald also briefly mentions a 1962 incident in Las Vegas involving three teenage sisters who observed a hovering disc that moved silently out of sight. He laments the lack of official or scientific response to such incidents over two decades.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

McDonald concludes that the instantaneous disappearance of the object in the Powell-McClave incident is not unique and that many such cases exist, defying easy explanation. He reiterates his belief that the Air Force's assertion that UFO reports are explainable by current science and technology is 'rubbish.' He calls for a serious investigation into these phenomena, suggesting that the Condon Project's focus on 'crackpot fringe' theories was a misdirection.

The article is based on a speech given by Professor McDonald on May 15, 1969, at Mansfield State College.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the critique of official government investigations into UFOs, particularly the Condon Report, and the assertion of the scientific significance of unexplained aerial phenomena. There is a strong emphasis on witness credibility and the need for rigorous, unbiased scientific study. The editorial also introduces the idea of integrating psychical research with UFO investigation, suggesting a broader approach to understanding anomalous phenomena. The overall stance is one of skepticism towards dismissive official explanations and a call for continued, serious investigation into UFOs as a matter of scientific importance.

This issue of 'FACT OR FOLKLORE?' delves into a variety of topics related to UFOs, ancient mysteries, and folklore. It features reports on UFO sightings, research projects, and theoretical discussions about extraterrestrial life and its potential impact on human history and thinking.

Air Cadets and Open Minds

The article "AIR CADETS TOLD TO KEEP OPEN MIND ON UFOS" reports on advice given to cadets at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. According to an article in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, a 14-page chapter on UFOs in a restricted academy manual, written by Major Donald Carpenter, suggests that UFOs have been reported for almost 50,000 years. Major Carpenter expresses doubt that the phenomenon is purely psychological or due to unknown phenomena, leaving the "unpleasant possibility of alien visitors, or at least alien-controlled UFO." He suggests the data implies multiple groups of aliens at different stages of development, and advises cadets to maintain an open and skeptical mind without taking an extreme position. The article notes that this stance suggests the negative Condon Report has not been universally accepted.

Project Warminster

"WARMINSTER RESEARCH PROJECT SET UP" announces the formation of a new independent research project to investigate UFO sightings in the Warminster area of Wiltshire, which has become known as a 'ufocal' or centre of intense UFO activity. Spearheaded by Dr. John Cleary-Baker, editor of the quarterly BUFORA Journal, the project aims to apply proper investigative techniques. Researchers are invited to act as observers and submit reports. The project is scheduled to begin on May 1 and is planned to cease activity in October 1971, with a possibility of extension or reactivation in spring 1972. Results will be published in booklet form and in the BUFORA Journal. Inquiries can be sent to Dr. Cleary-Baker at 3 Devenish Road, Weeke, Winchester, Hampshire.

Dorking UFO Sightings

"SIGHTINGS GALORE OVER DORKING" details a spate of eight independent UFO sightings reported in the Dorking area of Surrey during March. These sightings were investigated by SIGAP member Dick Munford and the Dorking Investigators of UFOs. Several cases are summarized:

1. March 2, 7:50 p.m., 1 Lusteds Close, Goodwyns, Dorking: Mr. and Mrs. C. Lecluse reported a fireball-like object, red with a greenish-blue trail, travelling east to west at "a terrific speed" for about three seconds before vanishing.
2. March 2, between 7:45 p.m. and 8:15 p.m., 26 Sondes Place Drive, Dorking: Mr. D. H. Smith and Mr. D. M. Culton described an object resembling a shooting-star, with a circular, well-defined head and a conical trail, mainly white with a pale-green shimmer, appearing in the south-west and disappearing in the west. It is suggested this might be the same object as seen by the Lecluses.
3. March 13, 7 a.m., Norbury Park, Mickleham, Dorking: An elderly spinster reported a large, rectangular blob of yellow light hanging motionless in the sky, distinctly brighter towards the centre. It disappeared suddenly.
4. March 15, 7:50 p.m., Over St. Paul's School, Dorking: Mrs. Gillian Cheesman and Mrs. Mary Alderman witnessed a hump-shaped object moving fairly quickly, with flashing lights that suddenly went out, leaving two small red lights on top.
5. March 15, between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m., Buckland village: A man, his wife, and daughter reported a delta-winged object that made a noise like an aircraft, though not as loud. It travelled some distance and ascended at about a 45° angle, leading the editor to suggest it was likely an aircraft.
6. March 15, 7:50 p.m., Dorking Bypass: Mrs. Gillian Woollard and Mrs. Judith Grunsell reported three or four lights in a banana-shaped curve. The object quivered, lights went out, and a faint grey shape disappeared. Mrs. Grunsell estimated its altitude between 200 and 250 feet.
7. March 22, 8:25 p.m., Wotton Hatch, Dorking: A husband and wife, along with a friend, reported a beam of light moving in an arc from north-east to south-east with a noise similar to an aircraft.
8. March 27, 9:40 p.m., The Nower, Dorking: Janet Coskery and six boys observed a fast-moving light with a flashing white light, making no noise.

The article also briefly mentions a UFO sighting over Farnham, Surrey, on February 2, involving an orange UFO, but concludes that military activity is the likely explanation due to army manoeuvres in the area.

Fact or Folklore?

Dan Butcher's article "FACT OR FOLKLORE?" explores the potential links between UFO entities, ghosts, and folklore. He notes reports of UFO entities walking through hedgerows and draws parallels with ghost stories, such as the apparition of an old woman or a policeman passing through a hedge. The article focuses on the "Black Dog ghost" phenomenon, citing accounts where the phantom dog seemed to enter or pass through hedges. Butcher suggests that these apparitions, including UFO entities, might be encountered on geographical straight lines, possibly former paths through hedges that are now overgrown. He also touches upon the Cornish folkloric figure of Tregeagle and the legend of the Wild Hunt, suggesting possible UFO activity associated with these tales, such as a UFO hovering over Dosmery Pool or encircling a lake.

Film Review: Chariots Of The Gods

The "FILM REVIEW" section covers the film "Chariots Of The Gods," based on Erich von Däniken's hypothesis that alien intelligences visited Earth in the past and influenced human evolution. The 56-minute technicolor production is described as superb and lucid. The review notes that the film's shooting covered various locations worldwide, including California, Mexico, Chile, Easter Island, Peru, Bolivia, Egypt, Iraq, Turkey, the Sahara, Lebanon, South Africa, and Rhodesia, though investigations into Chinese and Russian prehistory failed due to bureaucracy. Director Harald Reinl views the film as a hypothesis, stating, "The film is nothing but a hypothesis. It does not pretend that is how it was, but says 'that is how it could have been.'" The review highlights von Däniken's discovery of "huge, geometric lines" at Nazca in Peru, interpreted as a prehistoric landing ground. Reinl is credited with having the courage to present these controversial ideas, with the hope that the public will consider them beyond mere fantasy.

Other Items

• Aboriginal Rock-Carving: A report mentions the discovery of an Aboriginal rock-carving in Australia at Berowra, depicting a spaceman-like figure with upstretched arms, pointed hands, a dome-like helmet, and 17 carved indentations on its chest.
• New Book: Souvenir Press Ltd. is publishing a book by Andrew Tomas titled 'We Are Not The First,' priced at about £1.75.
• Photographs: Photographs from the film 'Chariots Of The Gods' are presented, with one identified as a gigantic monolith in a quarry at Sacsahuaman, Peru, and the other as part of the terrace walls at Sacsahuaman, noted for their incredible accuracy.
• Hostile Venus: Findings from the Soviet Venus 7 probe indicate extreme temperatures (455-495°C) and high atmospheric pressure on Venus, making terrestrial-type life unlikely. The probe transmitted signals for 23 minutes, marking the first time a man-made device relayed scientific information from the surface of another planet.
• Promethium Found in Star: Scientists have identified the rare element promethium, which does not exist naturally on Earth, in the spectrum of a star (HR 455). Promethium is a short-lived rare earth element, known only as a synthetic element since its discovery in 1947.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of UFO phenomena, the exploration of their potential origins (including extraterrestrial and folkloric connections), and the examination of ancient mysteries that might suggest past extraterrestrial contact. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging skepticism but not outright dismissal of unusual claims, as exemplified by the advice to air cadets and the review of von Däniken's work. There is a clear interest in bridging the gap between scientific investigation, historical accounts, and folkloric traditions when considering unexplained phenomena.

This issue of Pegasus, identified as issue number 9 and dated January 9, 1968, is published by SIGAP and focuses on the intersection of ufology with religious and historical texts, particularly the Bible. The magazine features articles, book reviews, and meeting announcements relevant to UFO enthusiasts.

Articles and Features

Third UFO Booklet: 'The Psychophysical Link In UFO Encounters'

Dan Butcher, SIGAP's artist-writer member, has completed his third UFO booklet, titled 'The Psychophysical Link In UFO Encounters.' This work examines UFO reports through the lens of astral-projections and out-of-the-body experiences (OBEs), specifically focusing on the 'beams and appendages' of UFOs and their occupants. The booklet, which will be published in a duplicated quarto format costing 20p, contains 48 pages and 94 references. Despite potential disagreements with his arguments, the extensive research is commended.

Butcher's previous UFO booklets were 'A Reference Book Of UFO Sounds' and 'Water And Its Symbolism In UFO Encounters.' The 'UFO Sounds' booklet was highly popular, leading to a decision to reprint it due to continued demand. Two hundred copies will be produced, available in a couple of months for 20p. The 'UFOs and water' booklet has just had its first printing and is available from Group Secretary Dick Beet for 20p, plus 22p for post and packing.

Chairman's Chatter

The chairman notes a lull in UFO activity in the country over the past year, making it difficult to maintain group interest. SIGAP has experienced a membership loss of about 30 percent, with many other groups fading into obscurity. BUFORA has also faced challenges. This decline in enthusiasm is seen as understandable for those with only a passing interest and may have served to rid ufology of sensationalists.

The chairman recounts attending an April 3 BUFORA meeting at Kensington Library where Charles H. Gibbs-Smith, Keeper at the Victoria and Albert Museum, lectured on his UFO thoughts. Gibbs-Smith's criticisms, particularly of the Condon Report, were interspersed with humorous anecdotes, and his knowledge of historical aircraft was evident. The meeting reportedly left the audience revitalized.

Next Meeting: SIGAP

The next SIGAP meeting is scheduled for May 18th and will include the annual business. A key event will be the screening of a UFO film taken by company director Mr. W. H. Huntington while driving along the Al between Grantham and Newark on August 11 of the previous year. A detailed account of this sighting is featured in the second issue of 'Flying Saucer Review Case Histories.' The meeting will be held in the canteen of the Plastic Coatings factory at Guildford, starting at 8 p.m.

UFOLOGY AND THE BIBLE by Rev. Dr. Norman Cockburn

This article explores the potential connections between ufology and biblical texts. The author posits that while ufology may not fundamentally alter the core tenets of the Bible, it can illuminate and provide explanations for biblical passages that have previously lacked satisfactory interpretations. Around a hundred topics in the Bible are suggested as being relatable to ufological thinking.

Genesis VI (4): The passage concerning the 'sons of the gods' and their intercourse with human women is discussed. Ufology presents cases of sexual intercourse between ufonauts and Earth beings and scientific interest in genetic studies, suggesting that the Genesis event might be historical, with future commentaries potentially referring to interplanetary relations.

Exodus XIII (21): The 'pillar of cloud' and 'pillar of fire' that guided the Israelites are examined. Commentaries vary, with some suggesting a volcano or 'symbols of Divine presence.' Ufology offers a new approach, suggesting that 'cigar-shaped' mother-ships can appear as strange clouds that 'condense' into metallic vessels. The cloud effects at night are described as luminous ionized gases. Electromagnetic UFO phenomena are proposed as explanations for events like the parting of the Red Sea, the 'charged mountain,' and the burning bush.

The author notes that for 300 years, biblical commentators have faced pressure from Western science to 'explain away' phenomena. However, with the rise of ufology, there is a shift towards accepting as historical matters previously considered mythical, leading to a 'maturer insight' into the Bible.

Ezekiel I (1-28): The vision of the heavens opening, a stormy wind, a great cloud, and flashing fire is analyzed. Commentators offer interpretations ranging from 'symbols of cosmic mobility' to 'mock suns.' The article critiques Dr. Donald Menzel's meteorological explanation as more revealing of his psychology than Ezekiel's vision.

Ufology is presented as a stimulating approach that suggests the Bible contains descriptions of 'classic sightings' of UFOs. The author references Keith Mosely's work and finds the ufological explanation more compelling than traditional commentaries, allowing for acceptance of both God and ufonauts. Ufology is seen as explaining, not diminishing, biblical content and making Ezekiel more credible.

The Star of Bethlehem (Matthew II: 1-12): The passage describing the star that led the Wise Men is discussed. Commentaries have been confused, with suggestions ranging from a star representing a person's birth to a 'fravashi' or the 'star out of David.' Ufology offers a more intelligible explanation, suggesting a UFO 'going before them' or 'standing over' the child. It is proposed that Jesus was born of Mary, and intelligences from heaven entered our physical world as embodied creatures in physical machines, facilitating contact with humans for the Incarnation.

Matthew XVII (1-8): The Transfiguration event is discussed. The author agrees with a 'spiritual' interpretation but also emphasizes it as a real, physical event where Moses and Elijah, who had similar experiences, spoke to Jesus. Ufology's contribution is seen in understanding the detailed nature of UFO experiences. The article references Rev. Barry Downing's book, 'UFOs and the Bible,' which suggests the 'bright cloud' at the Transfiguration was a UFO, similar to the one that led Israel out of Egypt. The presence of Moses and Elijah is also linked to UFO encounters.

Star of Bethlehem May Have Been Two Planets

Father P. J. Treanor, Director of the Vatican Observatory, suggests the Star of Bethlehem might have been the planets Jupiter and Saturn in conjunction in 7 B.C. However, the article argues that astronomical explanations have a basic fault: if the 'star' was merely planets, a supernova, or a comet, the Wise Men could hardly have been 'led' to Christ's birthplace; it would be too much of a coincidence. The author, Ron Toft, suggests the 'star' may have been a UFO, and that Christ himself might have been an alien, with aliens guiding the Wise Men.

Book Reviews

#### Scientific Study of Unidentified Flying Objects (Condon Report)

Reviewed by Tim Childerhouse, SIGAP's space consultant.

The review notes that over the past 25 years, the press has devoted significant space to sensational UFO stories. The Condon Report, a scientific study conducted by the University of Colorado and headed by Dr. Condon, concluded that there was no evidence to justify extraterrestrial visitors and no grounds for further scientific investigation.

The book examines strange and unanswered phenomena, including visual observations by U.S. astronauts from space, which the reviewer finds remarkable and not previously published.

#### Strange Creatures From Time And Space by John A. Keel

Reviewed by Ron Toft.

This book is described as a 'really good occult book' that discusses monsters, psychical phenomena, and UFOs. Keel argues that no matter where one lives, someone within 200 miles has encountered an 'inexplicable' in the past 100 years. Keel is not an advocate of the extraterrestrial hypothesis for UFOs, instead attributing them to an 'invisible plane of existence.' He states, "An invisible phenomenon is always stalking us and manipulating our beliefs... We are not coping with ghosts or extraterrestrial visitants. Rather, we are facing, and have always faced, denizens of some unseen world which surrounds us."

Keel divides 'unbelievables' into two groups: flesh-and-blood animals unknown to science (like the Loch Ness Monster and Sasquatch), and more mysterious intangibles that make fleeting appearances. The book is considered exciting and thought-provoking.

Next Issue

The summer issue of Pegasus will be published in July and will include the second part of Dan Butcher's article 'The Contactee As An Astral Projector,' a review of Ivan T. Sanderson's book 'Invisible Residents,' and the first part of an aerial phenomena guide compiled by Dick Beet.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the potential for ufology to provide new interpretations of religious and historical events, particularly within the Bible. There is a critical examination of scientific investigations into UFOs, such as the Condon Report, and an exploration of various theories regarding the nature and origin of UFO phenomena, including the idea of an 'invisible plane of existence.' The magazine also touches upon the challenges of maintaining interest and membership in ufological groups. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging a balanced approach that avoids extremes and sensationalism while seeking to understand the phenomenon more intelligently.

This document is the first page of the "PEGASUS" journal, published by the Surrey Investigation Group On Aerial Phenomena (SIGAP). The publication date is not explicitly stated but the mention of a membership fee increase effective from June 1, 1971, suggests the issue is from around that time, likely 1971.

Editorial Information and Submission Guidelines

The journal is edited by Ron Toft, located at 14 Buckhurst Road, Frimley Green, CAMBERLEY, Surrey. Articles for publication, regardless of length, are welcomed and should be sent to the Editor. The editorial stance is clarified by the statement, "Views expressed in Pegasus are not necessarily those of SIGAP as a whole." Extracts from the magazine may be used provided they are in context and properly credited. Individual copies of Pegasus can be obtained from the Secretary for 15p each, with an additional 2p charge for postage.

SIGAP Officials and Contact Information

Key personnel within SIGAP are listed with their contact details:

• Chairman: Omar Fowler, 149 Mytchett Road, Mytchett, CAMBERLEY, Surrey. (Tel. Farnborough 41012)
• Secretary: Dick Beet, 23 Coatham Place, CRANLEIGH, Surrey. (Tel. Cranleigh 4420). All general inquiries regarding membership and advertising should be directed to the Secretary.
• Treasurer: Miss Marjorie Dalley, Lawrence Farm, Buckland, BETCHWORTH, Surrey.

UFO reports are to be submitted to either the Chairman or the Editor.

Membership and Fees

The current membership fee is 75p. This fee is expected to rise to £1 from June 1, 1971.

SIGAP Board of Consultants

The journal lists a Board of Consultants with their respective fields of expertise:

• John Adams, B.Sc., F.R.Met.S. - Optical Physics
• Tim Childerhouse - Space & Satellites
• Rev. Dr. Norman Cockburn, M.A., B.D., Ph.D. - Theology
• Ronald Pilkington - Meteorology
• Professor Frank B. Salisbury, Ph.D. - Exobiology

Publication Details

PEGASUS is printed and published by the Surrey Investigation Group on Aerial Phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this publication is aerial phenomena, with a specific focus on UFO reports. The editorial policy emphasizes that the views expressed within the magazine are those of the individual contributors and not necessarily the official stance of the Surrey Investigation Group on Aerial Phenomena (SIGAP) as a whole. This suggests an open platform for discussion and reporting on UFO-related topics.