Pegasus - Vol 04 No 3 May-June 1972

Magazine Overview

Title: PEGASUS
Issue: Vol 4, No 3
Date: May/June 1972
Publisher: Surrey Investigation Group on Aerial Phenomena (SIGAP)
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English
Price: 15p

This issue of PEGASUS, a journal devoted to the study of Unidentified Flying Objects, presents a comprehensive look at the activities and findings of the Surrey Investigation Group on Aerial Phenomena (SIGAP). The cover features a complex illustration symbolizing various aerial phenomena and scientific concepts, alongside the journal's title and details.

Editorial Board and Contents

The Editorial Board consists of R. C. Beet, R. P. Colborne, O. F. Fowler, and M. G. Prewett (Production Manager). The contents page lists several key articles:

• SIGAP - The First Five Years by Omar Fowler (Research Director)
• Norwegian UFO Case
• Aerial Phenomena Guide - Part 4 by Richard Beet (Projects Director)
• Floating Lights on Sacred Mountain by Dan Butcher
• Noise from UFO Unbearable (and light from same illuminates worms lying on lawn) by R. P. Colborne (Investigations Co-ordinator)
• Fifth Annual General Meeting
• Forthcoming Meetings

SIGAP's Secretarial Address is provided as 20 Loman Road, Mytchett, Camberley, Surrey. Membership is open to all interested in UFO research, with an annual subscription of £1.50 (£0.75 for students). Additional copies of PEGASUS are available for 15p plus 5p postage and packing. A Board of Consultants is also listed, including J M Adams, T C Childerhouse, Rev Dr N Cockburn, Prof F B Salisbury, and R T Toft.

Editorial

The editorial discusses the unpredictability of UFO sightings and the tendency for them to occur in country districts, contrasting this with the usual concentration of UFO groups in populated areas. SIGAP was formed in 1967 to address extensive UFO activity in Surrey. The editorial notes that during the '71 'flap', SIGAP investigators ventured beyond Surrey to where the 'action was'. The aim is to broaden readership for PEGASUS to ensure the magazine's profitability and support further research.

SIGAP - The First Five Years

Omar Fowler recounts the founding of SIGAP in May 1967 by Surrey enthusiasts. The group initially limited membership to 100 to avoid administrative overload. He recalls 1967 as the year of the great 'flap', marked by incidents like the 'flying crosses' and the 'mystery spaceships' hoax. SIGAP's investigations expanded to Surrey, Sussex, Hampshire, Berkshire, London, and the Midlands. They engaged with foreign groups, were approached by Radio Moscow, appeared on BBC's Panorama, and were featured in national newspapers like 'The Sun' and 'The Daily Express'. Despite a subsequent decline in general interest after UFO 'flaps' subsided, SIGAP has re-established itself as a leading UFO group, conducting numerous public lectures. The article lists recent engagements with various local organizations. The piece also pays tribute to the late Dan Butcher, a significant contributor known for his lectures and 'Fact or Folklore' series. Ron Toft is credited for his professional input, and Mike Prewett is now the Editor. The magazine has faced financial challenges due to the cost of postage and exchange copies, leading to a reduction in distribution. An Editorial Board has been established to manage content, and contributions from members are encouraged.

For statistical purposes, SIGAP investigated 201 reports over five years, categorized as: Landing Investigation (1), Recognisable Shape (50), Moving Light in Sky (78), Possible Logical Explanation (31), Natural Phenomena (10), and Insufficient Information (31).

The group plans to focus on direct UFO investigation rather than accumulating funds, believing that spending money on research is a worthwhile cause.

THE SKJERVØY CASE - 1963

This section details an interesting Norwegian sighting reported by Helge Mikalsen on August 21 or 22, 1963, near Skjærvøy. Mikalsen observed a flame from a mountain, followed by a gray object moving rapidly upwards. At approximately 6,000 ft, the flame disappeared, revealing a gray object described as possibly a balloon or parachute. The object then moved eastward against the wind, descending as it approached. Mikalsen realized it was not a balloon and identified two objects: one large and one small. The large object, about 30 ft high and 105-120 ft long, had five oval windows and hovered about 40-50 ft above the water. A smaller, oval object (6 by 9 ft) was then drawn into the larger one via two apparent rails. The object was flat underneath with a dome on top. It hovered motionless for 10 minutes over a sunken German cargo ship from 1944. The object then tilted and accelerated rapidly, disappearing in a northerly direction. The color was metallic or silvergray. The report notes that investigations by Trondheim UFO Forening and UFO-Informasjon suggest the observer is reliable.

CAROL'S INITIATION

This short piece describes an unusual experience of Carol Godsell, a new member of SIGAP's Executive Committee. On the morning of the Annual General Meeting (May 9th), she was awakened by a loud whistling noise, followed by a bright red light and a tremendous crash of thunder. She discovered that a 'ball of lightning' or 'thunderbolt' had passed over her house, striking a tree and smashing a kitchen window. The event caused fuses to blow in nearby houses with electrical appliances in use, an effect similar to that of some reported UFO phenomena.

AERIAL PHENOMENA GUIDE - Part 4

Authored by R. C. Beet, this section continues the guide to phenomena that might be mistaken for UFOs.

• Erratum to Part 3: An correction regarding 'coronae', which are described as rings formed by water clouds around the sun or moon, often brownish in color, and are more related to halo phenomena.
• Debris: Classified into two types: 1. Atmospheric or windblown debris (e.g., plants, tissue paper from fires). 2. Space debris (e.g., decaying satellites, rocket stages) re-entering the atmosphere, which can appear as fast-moving glowing objects.
• Dispersion: Explains how atmospheric refraction and dispersion can alter the apparent location and color of celestial bodies, especially at low elevations.
• Dust Devils: Described as rotating columns of air carrying dust in dry, sandy areas, varying in height from 100 to 2000 feet.
• Eclipse: Explains lunar and solar eclipses as reductions in visibility due to one body passing into the shadow of another, unlikely to be interpreted as UFOs today.
• Fireballs: Bright meteors with luminosity equal to or exceeding the brightest planet.
• Foo Fighters: Small balls of light observed by WWII pilots accompanying aircraft, thought to be manifestations of coronal discharge or St. Elmo's Fire. They can range from 2 to 18 inches in diameter and interfere with radio reception.

The section also mentions a book by J H Brennan on becoming invisible and invites readers to share their experiences with his method.

FLOATING LIGHTS ON THE SACRED MOUNTAIN OF WU T'AI SHAN IN CHINA

This article, contributed by Dan Butcher, describes a phenomenon witnessed by pilgrims on Wu T'ai Shan. John Blofeld recounts reaching a temple and observing a tower. Shortly after midnight, a monk announced 'The Bodhisattva has appeared!'. Inside the tower room, observers saw innumerable balls of orange-colored fire floating majestically past in the open spaces beyond. The size and origin of these lights were unknown, and they moved unhurriedly before fading from sight.

WERE SOME EARLY UFO SIGHTINGS IN USA FLARES?

T. C. Childerhouse examines early aviation books and suggests that some 'flying saucer' reports from as early as 1912 might be related to sightings during the early days of aviation. More significantly, he proposes that a powerful new flare, secretly tested in 1951 near Windsor Locks, Conn., could be responsible for many US reports between 1951-3. This flare, the 'Hell Roarer', was a giant magnesium flare attached to a photo-reconnaissance aircraft, designed to burn intensely for four minutes. Photographs released by the Pentagon showed a Douglas B 26 bomber with such a flare streaming from its wing. The article suggests that researchers might investigate this flare to explain some early sightings.

NOISE FROM UFO "UNBEARABLE"

R. P. Colborne details a case where a witness, referred to as Mr. C, reported an experience that included a loud whistling noise, a bright red light, and a tremendous crash of thunder. This event, investigated by Colborne and David Oakley-Hill in the Banbury area, was later identified as a natural phenomenon (a ball of lightning or thunderbolt) that affected electrical systems. The witness, initially skeptical about UFOs, provided a credible account after being contacted by investigators. The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday, October 18th, 1971, at Middleton Cheney.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of PEGASUS demonstrates a commitment to rigorous investigation and the rational explanation of aerial phenomena. A recurring theme is the distinction between genuine UFO sightings and natural phenomena or man-made objects that can be mistaken for them, as highlighted in the 'Aerial Phenomena Guide' and the 'Skjervøy Case' discussion. The magazine also emphasizes the importance of documenting and investigating reports, even those that initially seem dubious, as exemplified by the 'Noise from UFO Unbearable' case. SIGAP's editorial stance is one of active research, aiming to contribute to the understanding of UFOs while maintaining financial viability through its publication. There is a clear effort to educate the readership about various phenomena and to encourage participation in UFO research.

Title: PEGASUS
Issue: Vol 3 No 2
Date: May 1972
Publisher: Surrey Investigation Group on Aerial Phenomena (SIGAP)
Country: UK
Language: English

This issue of PEGASUS, the bi-monthly journal of the Surrey Investigation Group on Aerial Phenomena (SIGAP), details a compelling UFO sighting, the group's annual general meeting, research activities, and membership information.

Witness Account: Middleton Cheney Area Sighting

The issue opens with a detailed account of a sighting experienced by a Mr. and Mrs. C. at approximately 2:15 am. Despite heavy rain, Mr. C. noticed a powerful light illuminating the area outside his house. The light source was to the east, casting a shadow that allowed him to see worms on the lawn. As he went to check on his sons, the light suddenly extinguished. It reappeared shortly after, moving slightly east of north, its direct view obstructed by a neighboring house. This time, the light remained for only seconds.

Following the light's disappearance, an intense, ear-splitting, pulsating whine began, described as being like an off-station radio but much more intense, with two distinct rhythms. The noise was so disturbing that it made remembering the exact time impossible. The sound briefly stopped and then adopted a single note. Simultaneously, a light comparable in size to a street lamp at 100 yards, but much more intense, was observed. The light source then appeared to increase in brightness, recede, and ascend from an elevation of 35-40 degrees before vanishing. Notably, the noise was not heard by neighbors, nor did it wake the witnesses' two sons, a fact that SIGAP notes has parallels in other UFO cases, including those in the Banbury area.

The report continues to describe events from the following night, where several witnesses traveling near Middleton Cheney towards Charlton Oxen. reported seeing multiple bluish-white light sources flashing spasmodically. One of these unilluminated objects was observed to move several times before being last seen in a valley near Charlton.

Fifth Annual General Meeting of SIGAP

The magazine then reports on the Fifth Annual General Meeting of SIGAP, held on Tuesday, May 9th, in the Powell Room of Guildford House, Guildford. Attendance was low, with only about 10 people present, including officers. The following individuals were elected as honorary committee members: R. C. Beet, R. P. Colborne, O. F. Fowler, Miss C. Godsell, and M. G. Prewett. M. E. C. Mercer was also nominated but did not seek election due to personal commitments. Omar F. Fowler was elected Chairman, succeeding R. C. Beet, who did not wish to continue in the position.

The statement of accounts for the year ending April 30, 1972, shows receipts totaling £118.01 and payments also totaling £118.01. The accounts were certified by M. G. Prewett, Administration Director, and audited by R. C. Beet, Ex-Chairman (Acting).

The committee was constituted into new offices: Omar F. Fowler as Research Director & Chairman, Richard P. Colborne as Investigations Co-ordinator, Richard C. Beet as Projects Director, Michael G. Prewett as Administration Director, and Miss C. Godsell as Assistant Secretary.

Chairman's Report (1971-1972)

Richard C. Beet, Acting Chairman, presented his report for the year 1971 and early 1972, describing it as a year of mixed fortunes for SIGAP. He enumerated various classifications of activity:

1. Administration: Mike Prewett managed the organization and finances. SIGAP launched an 'Equipment Fund' in January to purchase an electric duplicator, acquiring a Roneo 750 by the end of March, though £15 remained outstanding.
2. Membership: An increase in successful membership applications was noted. The cost of maintaining a member was estimated at £1.11 per year, prompting a proposal for remedial action.
3. Personalities: The report sadly noted the death of a respected member, Dan Butcher, in January following an accident. Butcher was remembered for his contributions to SIGAP and ufology, his literary talents (including three excellent books), and his unique collection of UFO paintings.
4. Research: SIGAP participated in the June National Skywatch at Pewley Down, conducting an experiment related to a 1968 sighting. The BUFORA mobile research unit was used for investigations at Bentley and the skywatch. The unit was later sold to the Interstellar Research Group for five new pence. SIGAP expressed disappointment at not being consulted before the decision to sell the unit. During its use, the unit was employed for investigations at Hindhead (reported landing), Blackbush (hovering ufo), Bentley (reported landing), and Epsom (landing).
The major research program was conducted by Richard Colborne in the Banbury area, with assistance from Mike Prewett and Dave Oakley-Hill. This work was published in PEGASUS and GEMINI, and commended by C.A.E. (Tim) O'Brian of BUFORA.
5. General Activities: Omar Fowler continued to give lectures, and Richard Colborne and Mike Prewett participated in UFO discussions.
6. The Future: The report expressed optimism about renewed interest in SIGAP and UFO research, ensuring the group's future. Plans for re-organization were expected to maintain SIGAP's influence in UFO studies.

Richard C. Beet signed the report as Acting Chairman on May 16th, 1972, from Cranleigh.

Secretarial Report (1971-2)

Michael G. Prewett, Secretary, reported on another difficult year for SIGAP, citing inactivity on the local scene and increased financial expenditure. The magazine and newsletters, previously produced cheaply with facilities at Omar Fowler's workplace, now had to be produced on a commercially viable basis. To manage costs, free exchange magazines were cut by 75%. Postal changes increased the magazine's postage cost from 22p to 32p. The re-introduction of the Journal on a bi-monthly basis, at 15p plus 32p postage, brought the annual cost to £1.11, making the £1 annual subscription effectively mean SIGAP was paying people to join.

A sales drive was planned to fund the next issue, offering a 33.3% commission for selling 10 or more magazines. SIGAP now uses Guildford House as its venue, no longer having free use of a meeting room. Due to low attendance, admission charges were not feasible. Meetings were planned to be bi-monthly instead of quarterly, with an Executive Committee developing a speaker list.

The group lost its Chairman and Editor, leading to the absence of the Winter 1971 magazine. An Editorial Board of four members was formed to decide the content of PEGASUS. SIGAP affairs were now included in the journal alongside regular articles.

SIGAP recently purchased an electric duplicator, but £15 remained outstanding from the equipment fund. Shares of £1 and £5 were available, with the promise of returning money with profits if the group were wound up and the duplicator sold.

Michael G. Prewett signed the report as Secretary, SIGAP, from Camberley in May 1972.

Upcoming Events and Membership Information

SIGAP Meetings: Meetings are scheduled to be held bi-monthly on Tuesdays at 7:30 PM in the Garden Room, Guildford House, Guildford. Access is via a railed passage at the side of the Guildford Library in North Street.

Lecture: A lecture on Meteorology will be given by John Adams B.Sc., F.R.Met.S. There will be time for discussion and a break for coffee and biscuits.

National Skywatch: The Annual National Skywatch will be held at Puley Downs, Guildford on Saturday, June 24th. A circular with more details was enclosed with this issue.

Important Notice: Subscription Changes

Due to rising costs, the Annual Subscription has been increased to £1.50, effective June 1st, 1972. This includes receiving the bi-monthly Journal, reduced admission to meetings, circulars, and voting rights. The Student Membership Grade has replaced the Junior Membership grade, costing 75p annually for members aged 14-18 who are still in full-time education. A minimum age of 14 years is imposed.

A Message to Investigators

Richard P. Colborne, the new Investigations Co-ordinator, announced a considerable reorganization of SIGAP's investigations policy. Members wishing to become or continue as Investigators were asked to write to him. A meeting would be organized to brief interested parties on relevant techniques and future investigation policies. Both new and old reports would be investigated.

SIGAP Membership Application

The magazine includes a detailed application form for membership, outlining the group's aims, history, and benefits. It reiterates the subscription costs and the need for evidence of full-time education for student members between 16 and 18. The form requests full name, address, age, telephone number, qualifications, details of observing equipment, and willingness to act as an Area Investigator.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings, the operational aspects of a UFO research group (SIGAP), financial management, membership drives, and the reporting of research findings. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious, systematic investigation into UFO phenomena, aiming to uncover the truth. There is a clear emphasis on detailed reporting of sightings, rigorous research, and the importance of member participation and support for the group's activities and publications.