Pegasus - Vol 18 No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: PEGASUS
Issue: Volume 18, #1
Date: Monday May 3rd 2004
Publisher: Surrey Investigation Group into Aerial Phenomena

Articles

JOHN MACK - PSYCHIC EXPLORER

This section memorializes John Mack, a professor of psychiatry at Harvard, who died in a road accident. Mack was known for his original and audacious approach to ufology. He believed that other cultures have always known about other realities, beings, and dimensions that can cross over into our world. Mack investigated the experiences of abductees and also used himself as an experimental subject, employing controlled breathing techniques to enter altered states of consciousness. He claimed to have travelled into past lives, emotions, and events, realizing that the psyche could travel beyond the brain and body, and that spirituality was tangible. Mack concluded that the current scientific account of the world was inadequate to explain phenomena like alien abductions, proposing three realms: the mind, the perceived world, and a third realm accessible to primitive man but lost to modern humans, where he believed aliens reside.

IS THIS PROOF ALIENS LANDED ON EARTH?

By Zecharia Sitchin, adapted from the Daily Mail, May 3rd, 2004. Sitchin discusses a unique artifact, described as a 'headless spaceman', which he believes is physical proof of alien astronauts visiting Earth in ancient times. The artifact, about the size of a man's hand, is carved from soft yellow-brown stone and was allegedly found during excavations at Toprakkale, an ancient site in southeastern Turkey, estimated to be 3,000 years old. It resembles a cone-nosed rocket ship with a segmented hull, five exhaust cones, and a solo pilot wearing a ribbed one-piece pressure suit. The pilot's head is missing. Sitchin recounts his persistence in bringing this artifact to public display after it had been deliberately kept in obscurity for nearly 25 years. He notes that the artifact was initially difficult to obtain information about, with conflicting accounts of its provenance.

Sitchin connects the artifact to ancient texts, particularly those of the Sumerians, who described flying objects and gods visiting Earth. He also references Egyptian hymns to a 'celestial boat' and the biblical account of the Prophet Ezekiel describing a 'whirlwind' with UFO-like characteristics. He suggests that ancient myths might contain kernels of physical truth, and that the gods of the ancient world could have been extraterrestrial visitors, possibly explaining the Nephilim mentioned in the Bible. Sitchin highlights that many scientists accept the existence of alien life, making his hypothesis less outrageous.

He details his investigation into the 'headless spaceman', which began with a correspondent from Turkey. He learned it was found near Lake Van and was in the hands of the country's museum service. During a tour of Turkey in 1990, he inquired at the Istanbul Archaeological Museum but found nothing on display, and staff claimed ignorance. Years later, a press cutting with the headline 'An ancient space module?' provided a photograph and details, stating it was thought to date back to 1,000 BC and was found at Tushpa, capital of Urartu. The article mentioned the sculpture was kept in the Istanbul Museum, where staff had previously denied its existence.

Sitchin recounts a German colleague's visit to the museum, where the object was produced after the article was shown to a senior official. The official claimed it was confiscated from a tourist and was a forgery because it did not reflect the style of the era and looked like a space capsule, which supposedly did not exist then. Sitchin argues this reasoning is flawed, as the museum refused to believe in ancient spacecraft, thus deeming any artifact suggesting it a forgery. He questions why a forgery would be confiscated and kept. Later, journalists received a letter claiming the object was a forgery made of 'plaster of Paris and marble powder' and was brought by a dealer in 1973. These conflicting accounts, along with initial denials of possession, fueled Sitchin's curiosity.

In 1997, Sitchin met the museum director, Dr. Alpay Pasinli, who stated they do not display forgeries. Pasinli's reasons for deeming it a fake were the absence of rocket ships in antiquity and the artifact's uniqueness. Sitchin countered that uniqueness does not preclude authenticity, citing the Phaistos Disc as an example. He was eventually allowed to see the sculpture, which was stored in a deputy director's drawer. Sitchin examined it closely, noting the intricate carving and the pilot's suit, and concluded it was not plaster of Paris, but a lightweight, porous stone. He also noted the absence of casting marks. Dr. Pasinli later informed Sitchin that the object was put on display, though with other 'dubious' items, lifting the veil of secrecy.

Sitchin also mentions illustrations from Latin America showing a figure resembling the astronaut sculpture, found on a giant stone column near Tula, Mexico, dating back to before the Aztecs. He notes that after the sculpture was displayed, Dr. Pasinli was replaced, and the object was removed from display, possibly returned to a drawer.

'ALIEN HUNTER' SAYS ETS AREN'T FRIENDLY

By Carolina Amengual, published October 31, 2004. This article features Derrel Sims, a self-proclaimed 'alien hunter' who claims to have been abducted by aliens at least 10 times between 1952 and 1965. Sims, now 56, recounts his experiences, including an encounter at age 4 with an 'entity' with a pear-shaped head and large black eyes. He states that aliens often mimic relatives to confuse abductees and manipulate their memories, controlling what they remember. Sims' most chilling contact occurred in 1960 when he was 12, involving a needle inserted into his nasal passage. He believes aliens are not here to save the planet but have a hidden agenda. Sims, who is a hypnotic anesthesiologist and hypnotherapist, uses hypnosis and memory recall to investigate alien encounters. He suggests that governments know more than they disclose about UFOs and other phenomena like animal mutilations and crop circles. Sims also mentions analyzing 'alien implants' and shows pictures of alleged surgically removed objects. He believes aliens have left him alone since he was 17 but have since targeted his son and other family members, suggesting a 'neuroprint' that draws aliens to certain families based on their lineage.

DARK SIDE OF THE MOON

By Phil Plait. This section discusses astronomical concepts related to the Moon. Plait clarifies that the 'dark side of the moon' is a misnomer, referring to the farside, which is not always dark. He explains that the Moon's phases are caused by the changing illumination by the Sun as it orbits Earth, not by the Earth's shadow. He describes how, from the Moon's surface, the Earth would appear overhead, and the phases of the Moon would be experienced differently. Plait also touches upon the Pink Floyd album 'Dark Side of the Moon' and a voiceover from the album stating 'There is no dark side of the moon.' He explains that the Moon reflects only about 10% of sunlight, making it appear bright due to being in full sunlight.

UNEXPLAINED SIGHTINGS MET WITH DENIAL

By Leslie Kean. This article focuses on the role of NARCAP (National Aviation Reporting Center on Anomalous Phenomena) in addressing aviation safety concerns related to UFOs/UAP. It references a study by a retired aerospace scientist from NASA-Ames Research Center, which documented over one hundred pilot and crew reports of encounters with unidentified aerial phenomena that appeared to compromise aviation safety. Dr. Richard F. Haines, Chief Scientist for NARCAP, is cited as presenting detailed accounts from pilots describing geometric forms and lights inconsistent with known aircraft. These objects have paced aircraft, sometimes disabling instruments and communications. The article notes that while the U.S. has historically responded with ridicule and censorship, other countries are openly investigating UAP's impact on aviation safety. Examples include a French study and a Chilean government committee formed to study anomalous aerial phenomena. The article highlights instances of pilots being grounded for reporting sightings and the difficulty in encouraging objective reporting due to fear of ridicule. It mentions a 1994 Air France sighting confirmed by radar and a 1995 Aerolineas Argentinas encounter that extinguished airport lights. The article concludes by emphasizing the need for aeronautic personnel to be sensitized and to accept the possibility of extraterrestrial craft.

Alien Abduction: Political, Economic, and Religious Implications

By John Mack, M.D. Mack discusses the profound implications of the UFO abduction phenomenon on the Western scientific/materialist worldview. He argues that this worldview, while successful in exploring the physical world, has led to environmental degradation and a disconnect from nature. The abduction phenomenon challenges our sense of control and suggests a broader identity within the universe. Mack posits that the phenomenon is more readily accepted at the grassroots level than by the elite, who are invested in maintaining the dominant ideology. He suggests that government policy on UFOs has been characterized by denial and cover-up, fueling conspiracy theories. Politically, the phenomenon could offer a distraction from ethnonational conflict by promoting a more global, cosmic identity. Economically, it highlights issues of greed and unsustainable growth. Religiously, it challenges traditional doctrines, particularly in Judeo-Christian traditions, which struggle to accommodate the idea of diverse, non-hierarchical spirit beings, unlike Eastern traditions that recognize a wider range of spiritual entities.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, with a particular focus on UFOs, alien encounters, and ancient mysteries. There is a clear editorial stance that these subjects warrant serious investigation and should be taken out of the realm of sensationalism and into mainstream discourse. The articles often highlight the inadequacy of conventional scientific explanations and the potential for ancient texts and artifacts to offer alternative perspectives on human history and our place in the universe. The magazine also touches upon the societal, political, and religious implications of these phenomena, suggesting they challenge established paradigms and may require a fundamental shift in human consciousness and understanding.

Title: Pegasus
Issue: 23
Volume: 9
Date: October 27, 2004
Publisher: SIGAP
Country: UK
Language: English

This issue of Pegasus focuses on the intersection of alien abduction and hypnosis, featuring articles on the work of Dr. John E. Mack, the National Council for Hypnotherapy's (NCH) policy on alien abduction clients, and a description of a typical abduction experience.

Dr. John E. Mack: A Controversial Interest in Aliens

The first article is an obituary for Dr. John E. Mack, a psychiatrist, psychoanalyst, and biographer of T.E. Lawrence. His later academic career became controversial due to his interest in aliens. Mack believed that aliens were visiting Earth for a 'cosmic correction' in response to humanity's ecological destruction. He saw these encounters as an outreach program from the cosmos to the spiritually impaired. Mack used hypnosis to retrieve abduction memories, documenting these in his book "Abductions: human encounters with aliens." Despite an inquiry by Harvard Medical School, his academic freedom was reaffirmed. He later wrote "Passport to the Cosmos: human transformation and alien encounters."

Morton Schatzman reflects on Mack's impassioned eloquence regarding the human predicament and the need for a new world view emphasizing interdependence and the fragility of ecosystems.

Alien Abduction and Hypnosis: The NCH Policy

Nick Pope reports on a landmark decision by the National Council for Hypnotherapy (NCH) in the UK to issue a policy statement on alien abductions. This is the first official pronouncement by a professional body representing British hypnotherapists on this issue. The initiative was driven by psychotherapist and hypnotherapist David Howard, an NCH member interested in paranormal phenomena, who had worked with abductees and felt the need for official guidelines. Pope also submitted a paper based on his Ministry of Defence research.

The NCH's policy statement, issued on December 14, 2001, advises therapists to treat Alien Abduction Clients (AACs) with respect and courtesy. Regression techniques should be non-directive, non-leading, and preferably indirect. Therapists must also be aware of False Memory Syndrome (FMS) and should not introduce the subject of alien abductions unless the client does. Additionally, therapists should not engage in corroborating these incidents and should maintain a neutral stance on the existence of alien abductions. It is essential to take clients' full medical and mental health history before commencing treatment.

The article acknowledges that hypnotherapy and regression hypnosis are controversial. However, it highlights that the NCH has taken a courageous step in recognizing the needs of people actively seeking help for alien abduction experiences. David Howard will act as the NCH's focal point on this issue, and members will be encouraged to research the subject. The NCH's initiative is seen as a significant step forward, contrasting with the British UFO Research Association's 1987 moratorium on regression hypnosis.

The article notes that mental health professionals like Dr. John Mack consider the technique valid, and that regression hypnosis is here to stay, potentially enabling access to new data and leading to catharsis for abductees. The work of Howard and the NCH is welcomed for its responsible approach.

Alien Abductions - Events During a Typical Abduction Experience

Davy Russell, X-Project, presents a summary of events occurring during a typical alien abduction, based on numerous reports. The experience often begins with a bright white light, and electronic devices may malfunction. The abductee can become paralyzed, and aliens may emerge to take the person into a ship. Inside, the abductee is stripped and may undergo intrusive physical examinations, including the extraction of bodily fluids and tissue samples. Implants, believed to be tracking devices, may be placed in the body. Communication with aliens is typically telepathic, and their language is often described as 'alien.' After the procedure, the abductee is returned to their original location.

Post-Abduction Syndrome is described with common symptoms including lost time, nosebleeds, sinus pain, nightmares, a feeling of looking at something else, mysterious stains or bruises, and deterioration of health. The conclusion suggests that abduction procedures are structured and routine, and while skeptics point to the ease of fabrication through hypnosis, proponents argue that true abduction stories can only be created by those who have experienced them.

The Real Wonderland

Richard M. Dolan reflects on the persistent reality of UFO sightings being ignored by mainstream media and society, likening it to Alice's journey down the rabbit hole into Wonderland. He criticizes the incompetence of the mainstream media and the self-serving nature of political and corporate leaders, leading to a warped reality where UFOs are considered 'bizarre.' Dolan shares personal anecdotes of people confiding their UFO experiences to him, highlighting the commonality of these events. He recounts two specific sightings: one in Rochester, NY, in 1975, of a large, dark aerial object, and another in Manlius, NY, in 1980, of a classic flying saucer described as 'as large as a football field.' He notes the lack of media coverage for such events, referencing Gil Scott-Heron's quote, "The revolution will not be televised."

Dolan argues that in 'Wonderland,' reality is upside down, and the 'reality' fed to the public bears little resemblance to actual experiences. He concludes that despite this, the operators of imaginary UFOs continue to make their presence known.

News in Brief / Sightings Roundup

UK - UFO CRASH AT WORLEY?

The Manchester Evening News reported an explosion in Greater Manchester on October 13, 2004. UK ufologist Stephen F. Balon investigated, noting that the British Geological Survey confirmed no seismic activity. Dozens of people reported explanations on the news website, with Balon suggesting a UFO crash in the woods. Witnesses saw two fireball-type objects with flames, and police cordoned off the area. A lady in Bury saw four RAF Tornado fighter jets heading towards the area.

UK/England - Cross Shape - KENT

A witness saw two objects rise into the sky on September 29, 2004. One moved away, while the other, a cross shape, rose slowly. The second object was a saucer shape with a high dome and legs. Both objects moved together and then apart.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the complex relationship between alien abduction and hypnosis, the psychological and physical aspects of abduction experiences, and the societal dismissal of UFO phenomena. The magazine appears to adopt a stance that acknowledges the reality of UFO experiences and alien abductions, advocating for a more open and respectful approach from both the public and professional bodies. It highlights the importance of listening to experiencers and conducting research in an even-handed and responsible manner, while also cautioning against unsubstantiated claims and the potential for memory fabrication. The editorial stance seems to be one of critical inquiry and support for those who have had these experiences, encouraging further debate and research within the ufology community.