Pegasus - Vol 15 No 3

Magazine Overview

Title: PEGASUS
Issue: Volume 15, #3
Date: January 2003
Publisher: Surrey Investigation Group into Aerial Phenomena (SIGAP)
Country: UK

This issue of PEGASUS, the magazine of the Surrey Investigation Group into Aerial Phenomena, explores a range of topics related to UFOs, crop circles, and advanced intelligence.

Orthoteny?

The issue begins with an article by G.M. discussing Aimé Michel's theory of "orthoteny," which proposes that UFO movements follow a network of straight lines, possibly related to "ley lines" or energy lines in the landscape. While Michel's theory was difficult to validate without radar, the article suggests that the existence of such energy networks is well-established and can be detected by individuals with open minds, potentially using metal rods. The author notes that Stonehenge is located at the intersection of many such lines, indicating its significance due to the confluence of ley energies. The article also touches upon the idea that UFO occupants might possess strong psi powers, possibly using these energies to locate the ley network. The author laments the lack of resources for ufologists to investigate these theories, particularly the absence of access to national radar networks.

Crop Circle Science

Authored by Sonya Porter and dated January 2003, this article delves into the phenomenon of crop circles. Initially appearing in Wiltshire, UK, crop circles have since spread globally, with 24 countries recording formations. The article highlights that Canada, with its vast prairies, has many formations, which is significant as some suggest tractor lines are used by hoaxers in England. The formations are found in various crops beyond wheat and barley, and some designs are noted to become more complicated and thematic each year. Porter acknowledges that some circles are man-made, created by companies for advertising or by deliberate hoaxers. However, she presents the August 2001 crop circle on Tan Hill, Wiltshire, as a prime example of a potentially genuine formation. This circle, nearly 900 feet in diameter with 409 individual circles, was described as "absolutely perfect with no mistakes." Even a known hoax team leader admitted the impossibility of creating such a design in the short time available, especially given the overcast and wet conditions that night.

The article further explores scientific investigations into crop circles. It mentions the work of WC Levengood, a Michigan biophysicist, who examined crop samples and identified "expulsion cavities" (pinhead-sized holes in plant nodes) and elongated nodes, suggesting a powerful microwave energy source heating the plants from within. Levengood also observed that seeds from within crop circles grew faster and seedlings tolerated adverse conditions better. He patented a process called molecular impulse response (MIR) to replicate these effects. The research was publicized in the Sunday Times Magazine in September 2002, thanks to philanthropist Laurence S. Rockefeller.

Diane Conrad, a geologist, analyzed soil samples from a circle near Logan, Utah, finding characteristics of sedimentary rock formed by intense heat (500-1500 degrees Celsius), yet the plants were not incinerated. Mineralogist Sampath Iyengar used X-ray powder diffraction to analyze the soil samples, finding an "increase in crystallinity" that suggested an unexplained energy had ordered the mineral structure, a phenomenon usually requiring geological heat over millions of years or laboratory temperatures of 600-800C.

Nancy Talbott sought peer review from Dr. Robert C. Reynolds Jr. at Dartmouth College, an expert in X-ray diffraction. Reynolds confirmed the results, stating that the conditions required for such crystal growth would normally incinerate plant material, concluding that current knowledge provided no explanation. The article also references mathematician Nick Kollerstrom, who has found "hyper maths" encoded in crop formations, identifying a theorem in one formation called 'the House of Pi'. Kollerstrom suggests that the beauty of these designs is compelling and draws visitors from around the world.

Are UFOs and ETs a Problem for the Church?

This section features an interview with Msgr. Corrado Balducci, a respected Italian theologian, by Michael Hesemann. Balducci states that UFOs are "no problem" for the Roman Catholic Church and other world religions. He acknowledges the growing number of eyewitness testimonies and suggests that while some reports can be explained by imagination, atmospheric phenomena, or advanced aircraft, a significant portion remains unexplained. He emphasizes that general skepticism and denial damage the value of human testimony and the basis of human society and religious life. Balducci suggests that extraterrestrials, if they exist, are likely humanoid beings with both spiritual and material natures, possibly existing on other inhabited planets. He quotes Pope John Paul II, who, when asked about aliens, replied, "Always remember: They are children of God just as we are."

A Super Highway for Aliens?

This article by Tim Utton, a science reporter for the Daily Mail (January 15, 2003), discusses images captured by the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO) satellite. These images reportedly show hundreds of UFOs traveling along what is described as an "alien super-highway." The objects appear to move independently and make turns, suggesting intelligent control. NASA initially suggested camera faults or asteroids/comets, but stopped answering questions when presented with evidence of intelligent movement. The objects are described as having a similar shape to other UFOs spotted in the stratosphere.

What Are They?

Authored by Richard M. Dolan, this article questions the fundamental nature of UFOs. Dolan proposes that the UFO phenomenon is the product of an "artificial intelligence" (AI), vastly outstripping biological intelligence. He references Ivan Sanderson, who explored the possibility of Unexplained Aerial Objects (UAOs) being inanimate or animate, natural or artificial. Dolan suggests that the "occupants" of UFOs might be artificial life forms. He notes the rapid advancements in AI and the concept of the "Singularity," where AI becomes self-aware and exponentially surpasses human intelligence, possibly by 2040 or even sooner. Dolan posits that this advanced machine intelligence could be the driving force behind UFOs, and that these entities might be interested in Earth's biological resources for creating and controlling biological entities.

Dolan also discusses the "Grays" described by abductees, suggesting they could be artificially created beings. He mentions "Mindscan" procedures and the possibility of implants functioning as conduits with advanced machine intelligence. He argues that the hypothesis of advanced machine intelligence weakens skeptical arguments against UFOs, as machine intelligence may be more durable than biological civilizations. He concludes that understanding UFOs might be as difficult as fathoming life beyond the Singularity, as they represent a point far beyond our current comprehension.

Trauma Real for Alien Abductees

This article by Tim Radford, science editor for The Guardian (February 18, 2003), discusses research by Richard McNally of Harvard University. McNally's study suggests that alien abduction experiences, while potentially involving "false memories," can be as psychologically traumatic as genuine traumatic events. Abductees often exhibit new age beliefs, vivid imagery, and experience sleep paralysis and hypnopompic hallucinations. McNally suggests that a combination of these factors, along with memory recovery techniques, can lead to the construction of an alien abductee narrative.

The Alien Agenda

Written by William McNeff, MUFON Minnesota State Director, this article discusses reasoning by meteorologist James W. Deardorff from the MUFON Journal. Deardorff posits that UFOs and aliens are interacting with Earth as part of a strategy. He suggests a "leaky embargo" approach, where the UFO phenomenon serves to condition human societies for eventual alien contact. This conditioning includes educating people about alien technology and psychic abilities, potentially discouraging the use of nuclear weapons, and making humans recognize their place in the hierarchy of intelligent life. Deardorff also notes that crop circles represent the work of intelligence, not a plasma vortex, and that aliens may be concerned about Earth becoming unlivable due to human destructiveness.

A UFO Fantasy

This extract from an unpublished work by Gordon Millington, "UFOs and Humanity," presents a speculative narrative about the Annunaki, an ancient race from the planet Nibiru. According to this fantasy, the Annunaki mined gold on Earth and, facing a shortage, created humans (Adam) as slaves by fertilizing hominid ape eggs with their sperm. After leaving Earth due to population control issues, they later returned, finding their intended home planet threatened by nuclear explosions. Their scientists formulated a plan to take over Earth by creating hybrid beings from human and android DNA. The Annunaki allegedly controlled human reactions to the UFO phenomenon to prevent opposition and to condition humanity for their eventual takeover. The narrative suggests that governments may have been complicit, granting facilities and even allowing infiltration by human-seeming androids. The ultimate goal is to replace humanity with mutated hybrids.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of PEGASUS consistently explores the intersection of unexplained phenomena, scientific inquiry, and speculative theories. The magazine appears to lean towards a belief in the reality of UFOs and alien intelligence, often presenting evidence and arguments that support these phenomena. There is a recurring theme of advanced intelligence, whether extraterrestrial or artificial, influencing human affairs and the planet. The articles also touch upon the psychological and societal implications of these phenomena, as well as the potential for scientific investigation, even when facing skepticism or official obfuscation. The editorial stance seems to be one of open-minded inquiry into subjects that challenge conventional understanding.

This issue of Pegasus, dated November 2002, focuses on challenging prevalent conspiracy theories, particularly the 'moon hoax,' and explores various scientific discoveries and ongoing research in astronomy, cosmology, and astrobiology. The magazine presents a collection of articles that aim to counter misinformation with scientific evidence and report on new findings from space exploration and theoretical physics.

Moon Landing Hoax Debate

The lead article, "Oberg and Scientists Challenge Moon-Hoax Theorists," addresses the persistent claims that the Apollo moon landings were faked. It highlights how these theories, often propagated online and through media, have gained traction, prompting NASA to consider responses. NASA chief Sean O'Keefe expressed frustration with the need to address such claims, calling the issue 'asinine.' Author James Oberg plans to write a book, 'A Pall Over Apollo,' to counter these theories, despite a previous NASA-commissioned book deal falling through. The article also mentions Tom Hanks' involvement in a lunar-themed IMAX documentary, 'Magnificent Desolation,' which aims to promote historical literacy.

The piece notes that the FOX network's program 'Conspiracy Theory: Did We Land on the Moon?' significantly amplified the hoax claims. Roger Launius, formerly of NASA's history office, stated that the show 'raised it to a new level.' Melissa Pollack of the National Science Foundation reported that even some NSF colleagues were swayed by the program. The article outlines the common arguments of hoax proponents, such as the lack of stars in photos and the flag fluttering without wind, and mentions Ralph Rene, author of 'NASA Mooned America,' who believes the fakery began during the Gemini program. The dangers of radiation in space are also cited by theorists as a reason the landings couldn't have occurred. NASA historians previously kept such correspondence in a 'kook drawer,' but the internet and prime-time specials have changed the landscape. Some within NASA believe responding only fuels the conspiracy, while others, like Phil Plait of Sonoma State University, argue that ignoring such 'antiscientific thinking' could lead to 'doom for our country.'

Apollo 13 commander Jim Lovell and Apollo 11 moonwalker Buzz Aldrin have also faced harassment from hoax believers. An editor's comment criticizes the lumping of moon-hoax proponents with Holocaust deniers, arguing against targeting 'UFO believers' and 'pyramid power' enthusiasts.

Extraterrestrial Micro-Organisms

An article titled "EXTRATERRESTRIAL MICRO-ORGANISMS PRESENT IN ATMOSPHERE: INDO-BRITISH STUDY" reports on a joint Indo-British scientific study that confirmed the presence of extraterrestrial micro-organisms entering Earth's atmosphere. Using the Indian Space Research Organization's cryogenic sampler balloon, scientists detected these micro-organisms in the stratosphere at an altitude of 41 km. The findings, presented at international symposia, have been accepted by the journal 'Microbiology Letters.' Preliminary results from an Indian Ocean experiment also indicated a brownish haze composed of water droplets and minute particles, largely from anthropogenic activities, occurring temporarily in winter.

Scientific Revolution and Extra Dimensions

"Extra Dimensions Showing Hints Of Scientific Revolution" discusses how the concept of extra dimensions, once dismissed, may soon help solve problems in particle physics, cosmology, and gravitational physics. Experts speaking at the American Association for the Advancement of Science meeting in Denver suggested that hints from experiments and theoretical ideas, particularly string theory, point to the existence of extra dimensions. These could potentially explain the universe's initial conditions and the mysterious dark energy accelerating its expansion. Maria Spiropulu of the University of Chicago noted that new experiments are producing data that challenges the standard model, suggesting a scientific revolution is imminent.

Space Exploration and Discoveries

Several brief reports cover recent findings in space exploration:

• Mars Water: NASA's Mars Exploration Rover Mission is set to launch, with scientists like Bill Feldman of Los Alamos laboratory mapping hydrogen distribution and estimating significant water reserves on Mars. The polar ice-caps are believed to be primarily water ice, potentially supporting future human exploration.
• Neptune Moons: Astronomers have discovered three new moons orbiting Neptune, bringing the total to 11. These small moons were detected using advanced imaging techniques and appear to be part of a 'family' formed by a celestial collision.
• Jupiter: The planet Jupiter was closer to Earth than at any other time in 2002 on February 2nd, and its cloudy belts and four largest moons are visible with a small telescope.
• Leicester UFO Sighting: Images captured by the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (Soho) are claimed by UFO investigators to be proof of alien spacecraft, though NASA attributes them to camera faults. The UFO group Euroseti is holding an exhibition of these images.
• UFO Wave Prediction: Donald A. Johnson predicts a worldwide UFO wave in March 2003, with a peak between March 15th and 25th, likely involving Northern Europe and the Pacific Ocean region.
• Exoplanets: A New Scientist report indicates that one in four planetary systems identified outside our solar system are capable of harboring Earth-like planets, a higher proportion than expected. Researchers are using computer simulations to identify potentially habitable planets.
• Bush on Aliens: US President George W Bush's budget document suggests mounting evidence for alien life, stating that proof of 'habitable worlds' in outer space is becoming a reality.

News in Brief / Sightings Roundup

This section includes a report on a compelling UFO video footage taken in Liverpool on January 16, 2003, by Eric Morris, described as the 'real smoking gun evidence of UFOs.' The footage shows three circular discs. Another brief mentions a study by Los Alamos scientists on hydrogen distribution on Mars, suggesting ample water for future exploration. The discovery of three new moons orbiting Neptune is also detailed. Finally, a report on Jupiter being the brightest 'star' in the evening sky and a UFO sighting in Leicester, UK, captured by the Soho spacecraft, are included.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the challenge to pseudoscience and conspiracy theories, particularly the moon landing hoax, through scientific evidence and expert commentary. There is a strong emphasis on reporting new astronomical discoveries, the search for extraterrestrial life, and advancements in theoretical physics like string theory and extra dimensions. The magazine appears to advocate for scientific literacy and critical thinking, as evidenced by the editor's comment and the concerns raised by Phil Plait about the dangers of antiscientific thinking. The editorial stance seems to be one of promoting factual reporting and scientific inquiry in the face of misinformation and sensationalism.