Probe Report Volume 1 Issue 4

Magazine Overview

Title: THE PROBE REPORT
Issue: Vol.1 No 4.
Date: March 1981
Publisher: PROBE (UFO Research Organisation)
Country: UK
ISSN: 0260-8189
Cover Headline: CAN A FLYING SAUCER FLY ?

This issue of The Probe Report delves into the persistent question of the reality and capabilities of flying saucers. It features a mix of investigative commentary, case studies, book reviews, and organizational news within the UFO research community.

Editorial Comment: THWARTED!

The editorial, written by Editor Ian Mrzyglod, details a frustrating experience attempting to access declassified UFO reports from 1950 at the Public Record Office in Kew. Despite obtaining reader's tickets, the team discovered that the expected 1950 reports had not been released as scheduled. Instead, they were part of a larger file, 'UFO Reports: 1950-1954,' slated for release in 1985. The editorial expresses skepticism about the government's transparency, suggesting a potential pattern of delaying or classifying information indefinitely. The only available document was a report on an 'airship' sighting over Sheerness in 1912.

News Round Up

The 'News Round Up' section covers several key developments:

• New Recruit: Dick Ryder joins PROBE as the fifth member, contributing weather and aircraft movement reports.
• Two Networks Meet: NUFON and MAUFOG met in Birmingham to discuss future cooperation and initiate a 'code of practice' for UFO investigations.
• Another One Bites the Dust: Skywatch, a Swindon-based UFO research group, has folded.
• SETI: HORIZON is scheduled to air a program titled "Hello Universe!" on March 16th, focusing on the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence.
• On the Air: Radio 1 DJ Mike Read thanked PROBE for a copy of their magazine, with Terry Chivers noted as PROBE's PR man.
• New UFO Research Centre: A new center has been established to provide facilities for UFO investigations, including a Forensic Analyst and an Assistant Photographic Analyst.

Case Closed

This section examines previously identified UFO cases that have been explained:

• 1964 Connecticut Sighting: A large, brilliant bluish-white light was observed in Connecticut, which changed color and detached smaller objects. Reports came in from ships in the Caribbean and sightings in the Virgin Islands and British Guiana. The objects were described in various ways, including flaming, cigar-shaped, and green globes. Newspapers noted the sightings occurred in a straight north-to-south line, leading to calculations of a speed of approximately 16,000 mph. Project Blue Book, with assistance from 'Spacetrack' at the National Space Surveillance Control Centre, identified the phenomenon as the Soviet satellite Sputnik II re-entering the Earth's atmosphere and burning up. Sputnik II had been launched in November 1957.
• 1960 Lake Erie Sighting: A similar case involved reports across the U.S.A. from observers near Lake Erie of a bright object. 'Spacetrack' identified this as the satellite 'Discoverer VIII' re-entering the atmosphere. The article notes that while these were considered UFOs at the time, satellites are now more common and their re-entry can appear as unidentified phenomena to the uninformed observer.

The section concludes that while these cases were initially unidentified, further information often leads to satisfactory explanations.

Books

This issue features several book reviews:

• UFO...CONTACT FROM THE PLEIADES, Volume 1: Reviewed as potentially a hoax or a major breakthrough in ufology, this book presents a Swiss farmer's experiences with alleged Pleiadian visitors, supported by detailed photographs. The reviewer expresses a desire to see available 8mm footage and notes the book's high price ($24.95).
• PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE UNKNOWN by Robert Rickard & Richard Kelly: A 144-page book with over 300 photographs covering various unexplained phenomena, including UFOs, ghosts, and stigmata. UFO shots on pages 62-63 depict an object emerging from the sea off the Canary Islands. The reviewer praises the book for its visual content and hopes for a second volume.
• THE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF UFOS edited by Ronald D. Story: A 440-page encyclopedia priced at £12.95, featuring biographies of notable UFO personalities, famous cases with photographs, and personal position statements. The reviewer finds it excellent as a reference but not for bedtime reading.
• SPACE by Martin Ince: A paperback exploring space research, from Sputnik to future projects, with a focus on satellites.
• ALIEN INTELLIGENCE by Stuart Holroyd: This book defines 'alien intelligence' as anything differing from human intelligence, including animals, intelligent machines, and spirits. Part 3, focusing on UFOs and Space People, is highlighted as the most interesting section.
• THE ROSWELL INCIDENT by Charles Berlitz and William Moore: This book revisits the alleged 1947 spaceship crash. The reviewer notes it relies on speculation and rumors rather than hard facts, though it includes excerpts and a poor-quality photocopy of a photograph of an alleged alien survivor.
• THE INTERRUPTED JOURNEY by John G. Fuller: A detailed account of the Betty and Barney Hill abduction case, including hypnosis sessions and star maps drawn by Betty Hill. The book is recommended and updated with a foreword and epilogue by John Fuller.
• EXTRATERRESTRIAL ENCOUNTER by Chris Boyce: A speculative work on future encounters with alien species, emphasizing scientific aspects and diagrams of futuristic probes. The reviewer quotes the author on the preciousness of life and the need for respect and compassion.

Terry's Skywatch Page

Terry shares an anecdote from the peak of skywatching activity in Warminster during the mid-1960s to early 1970s. He recounts a humorous incident where a skywatcher, dressed as 'Captain Fantastic' with a torch, was pursued by a group who believed him to be an extraterrestrial entity. Terry also shares a personal story about his car rolling down a hill due to a forgotten handbrake while he was trying to remove his coat.

Sci-Fi Spot

Phil Hodges reviews several science fiction books:

• THE MAGIC LABYRINTH by Philip Jose Farmer: The final volume of the Riverworld series.
• VOYAGE TO ARCTURUS by David Lindsay: A science fantasy tale from 1920.
• AFTER THE FALL edited by Robert Scheckley: A collection of fifteen short stories about the end of the world.
• BROTHER TO DEMONS, BROTHER TO GODS by Jack Williamson: A story about young Premen with abnormal powers.
• THE DRAWING OF THE DARK by Tim Powers: A fantasy novel about a mercenary soldier involved in a battle of good and evil.
• THE DYING EARTH by Jack Vance: A science fantasy story set in a future Earth where magic predominates.

A comic strip titled 'SPACE INVADERS' is also included.

Probe Merchandise

Information is provided on available back issues of The Probe Report, and other publications like 'WARNINGS FROM FLYING FRIENDS' and 'UFOS THE STARTLING FACTS'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of UFO phenomena, the challenges of accessing official information, and the critical review of books and media related to the subject. The editorial stance, particularly in "THWARTED!", suggests a critical view of government transparency regarding UFO data. The 'Case Closed' section indicates a commitment to providing explanations for sightings, while the book reviews cover a broad spectrum of UFO and science fiction literature, reflecting the organization's interest in both factual accounts and speculative fiction. The overall tone is one of earnest inquiry and a desire to inform readers about the latest developments and perspectives in the field of ufology.

This issue of PROBE Report, dated September 1980, features a prominent cover story titled "INCIDENT AT DEVIZES," detailing a UFO sighting case. The magazine also includes an analysis of alleged UFOs in Apollo 11 photographs and a speculative scientific exploration of interstellar travel and flying saucer technology. The publication is from the UK and is written in English.

Incident at Devizes

The main article, authored by Terry Chivers and Mike Seager, investigates an incident reported in the "Bath and West Evening Chronicle" on September 24, 1980. The report details a sighting by Michael Box, a soldier, and his wife Julie, from their home in Devizes. They described seeing six round, gleaming objects in the sky at 6:30 am. Julie stated that three objects vanished, and the other three reappeared from a different direction before vanishing entirely. The objects were visible for approximately 10 minutes.

Following up on the newspaper article, Chivers and Seager interviewed Michael and Julie Box on October 4th. The interview lasted over three hours, and the couple reiterated their story, adding that the sighting actually lasted between 21 and 30 minutes. They described the lights as golden and triangular in shape, estimating the distance to be between two and one mile. The sky was described as clear blue. The couple expressed enthusiasm for the subject and even considered joining PROBE as investigators.

Further investigation involved contacting RAF Lyneham for weather reports and the Wiltshire Constabulary for any related UFO reports. RAF Lyneham confirmed a helicopter was in the area but provided a weather report of cloudy skies with a 700 ft cloud base and 9 km visibility in light rain, contradicting the Boxes' clear blue sky description. Despite repeated requests, RAF Lyneham did not reply to further inquiries about their interest in UFO investigation.

A survey of the area where the UFOs allegedly appeared and vanished was conducted. The findings indicated that the brow of the hill was two to three miles away, making it impossible for the UFOs to have disappeared behind it as described. Photographs were taken from this area.

After considering all the evidence, PROBE reached two conclusions: first, that the sighting was genuine, but the witnesses made mistakes in their testimony and were advised not to cooperate; or second, that the entire story was a hoax staged for publicity. The contradictory weather reports and the physical impossibility of the described vanishing act led PROBE to lean towards the hoax conclusion. They noted that the Boxes had not responded to further communication and labeled the case as "HOAX."

Lost: Two UFOs

Authored by Ian Mrzyglod, this article examines a photograph of Edwin (Buzz) Aldrin from the Apollo 11 moon mission. The photograph, published in the book 'First On The Moon', appeared to show two light forms in the top left-hand corner. Mrzyglod initially considered it a classic example of lens flare but was intrigued when he later saw a version of the photograph in a Science Museum booklet, 'EXPLORING, Man On The Moon', where the two 'UFOs' were absent. Through geometrical analysis, Mrzyglod concluded that the lights were indeed lens flare and that the photograph might have been cropped or altered to remove them, though he found no clear motive for such an alteration.

Can a Flying Saucer Fly?

This article, adapted from "Zen & The Art Of Flying Saucer Maintenance" by Brian Smith, delves into the scientific and philosophical aspects of flying saucers and extraterrestrial intelligence. It begins by referencing the Condon committee's comprehensive research into UFOs, noting its inconclusive and biased nature according to ufologists. The article highlights J. Allen Hynek's transition from skepticism to becoming a proponent of UFO studies.

Smith discusses the common perception of flying saucers as alien spaceships and the scientific community's reluctance to accept extraterrestrial visitation, despite acknowledging unusual phenomena. He posits a paradox where highly speculative space sciences predict alien races and advanced spaceships, while ufology is often dismissed.

The article then explores the concept of "spaceships of the mind" and the psychological need to understand the unknown, drawing parallels with Zen philosophy. It emphasizes the scientific principle that proponents must provide the burden of proof for their hypotheses.

Smith then addresses the "extraterrestrial intelligence UFO hypothesis" and the "assumption of mediocrity," which suggests Earth's life is average. He argues that science fiction writers and ufologists are often relegated to the "idiot fringe." The article proposes to examine the feasibility of flying saucers based on extrapolations of existing technology, without recourse to unknown scientific principles.

Ships for the Stars

The article outlines four stages of vehicles necessary for interstellar travel: launch vehicles, interstellar vehicles (star-ships), planetary excursion vehicles, and planetary landing vehicles.

Design Criteria for Planetary Landing Vehicles

The focus shifts to the planetary landing vehicle, or "flying saucer." NASA predicts entry velocities of 25,000 to 60,000 ft per second. For ballistic entry, a lifting body vehicle is anticipated, but hovering flight is desirable for unknown planetary surfaces. The article suggests a desired entry velocity of around 35,000 ft per second. The characteristic "flying saucer" shape is deemed suitable for ballistic entry, with UFO reports often describing solid objects around 10 meters in diameter and 3 meters in height.

The criteria for a planetary landing vehicle include being compact, capable of atmospheric entry and hovering, and possessing single-stage-to-orbit capability for returning to a mothership.

The article presents equations for orbital velocity (Vc) and Tsiolkovsky's rocket equation. It discusses the limitations of present-day chemical rockets and the need for high vehicle mass ratios, typically achieved through multi-stage rockets. However, it suggests that a gas-cored nuclear reactor using hydrogen as a propellant could provide the necessary high thrust and specific impulse, significantly reducing the mass ratio.

Fig. 1 illustrates a gas-cored nuclear reactor power plant, capable of operating at extremely high temperatures to achieve high exhaust gas velocities. Fig. 2 shows the configuration of a planetary landing vehicle, detailing its components such as propellant tanks, a nuclear reactor, and a thrust nozzle. Table 1 provides specifications for such a vehicle, including its dimensions, weight, operating temperature, exhaust gas velocity, and maximum velocity.

Conclusion

Smith concludes that the concept of flying saucers has been maintained through Zen philosophy, speculative science, and order-of-magnitude calculations. He suggests that making flying saucers feasible might be a way to legitimize them and encourage science fiction authors. The article ends with a quote from Seng Ts'an on the nature of the mind and the universe.

Letters to the Editor

This section features correspondence from readers. Keith Knight congratulates PROBE on its report and suggests printed headings for all features, also humorously inquiring if Terry would consider entering politics. David Rees praises the magazine's production quality and glossy paper, but criticizes the "Astronaut Sightings" article by Keith Knight as naive. He also advises Keith to consult FUFOR's "UFO INSIGHT" for an article on astronauts seeing alien spaceships. Rees suggests that PROBE missed an opportunity to publish the Westbury Circles case as a "case history" and calls for more original contributions from active researchers.

The editor responds to Keith Knight's suggestion about printed headings and addresses the Westbury Circles case, explaining that their conclusions were opinions and they were reluctant to publish without positive identification of the cause. W. H. Chester suggests that localized whirlwinds might explain the Westbury "UFO Nests," but acknowledges that prevailing weather conditions would need to be considered.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue demonstrates a critical and investigative approach to UFO phenomena, as seen in the Devizes case investigation which leans towards a hoax conclusion. It also showcases a willingness to explore speculative scientific concepts, such as advanced propulsion systems for interstellar travel, while maintaining a grounded analysis of photographic evidence (lens flare). The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging reader participation and original research, while also being rigorous in its conclusions and cautious about unsubstantiated claims. The magazine aims to bridge the gap between ufology and conventional science, albeit with a speculative edge.

PROBE, Issue 3, Volume 1, published in 1981 by PROBE PRESS UK, is a magazine focused on UFO phenomena and related topics. The cover prominently features the headline "LOST: TWO UFOS!" with a reference to page 11 inside.

Correspondence on the Rod James Entity Case

The issue includes letters from readers discussing the 'Rod James Entity Case' in Trowbridge, which was featured in a previous report. Charles Hardin, writing from West Bromwich, suggests the experience might have been a projected image or a telepathic communication, possibly unintended for Mr. James but received due to his receptiveness. He likens the drawing to an Egyptian Mummy, potentially symbolizing death, and believes Mr. James had a genuine experience.

John Rimmer, Editor of MAGONIA, offers a different perspective from New Malden, Surrey. He describes the case as a "fairly typical hypnogogic hallucination," noting that the 'contactee' type message is unusual. Rimmer points out the lack of background information on Rod James in the report and suggests that Mr. James' interest in UFOs might color his interpretation. He also comments on Arthur Shuttlewood's writing style, prioritizing form over content.

Magda Graham, Editor of OCCULT WORLD, writing from Ipswich, Suffolk, believes the incident is likely a product of Mr. James' subconscious mind, though not a conscious hoax. She questions whether Mr. James was asked about concerns for Earth's future or ecology, suggesting the message might relate to an "'we-shall-all-be-destroyed-unless-we-mend-our-ways' syndrome." Graham also raises questions about the mention of a 'rift' and suggests consulting a geologist regarding the possibility of explosions liquifying and solidifying the Earth's crust.

The editor's response acknowledges these comments, explaining that PROBE was new to this type of incident and that the San Andreas Fault was suggested to Mr. James, who insisted the 'rift' was a name he had not heard before. The editor also humorously asks how to approach a geologist about flying saucers repairing structural faults.

Ye Olde Book Sale

This section details a sale of surplus books from the defunct Brighton-based NUFOR. The books are mostly paperbacks, some with 'NUFOR' stamps. Prices are listed, along with postage costs (20p for up to three books, then 10p per book thereafter). Titles include "IN SEARCH OF ANCIENT GODS" (Von Däniken), "THE SPACESHIPS OF EZEKIEL" (Blumrich), "UFO: FLYING SAUCERS OVER BRITAIN" (Chapman), and various other works on UFOs, ancient astronauts, and mysteries.

Advertisements

Several advertisements are featured:

• WANTED: 'Warminster Mystery' by Arthur Shuttlewood.
• SKYWATCH: A magazine offering national and international UFO news, sightings, letters, and articles. Membership is £3.00 for six issues.
• OCCULT WORLD: A quarterly magazine covering occult traditions, Paganism, and related topics, priced at 30p post paid.
• SEARCH (WEST) GROUP MAGAZINE: A quarterly UFO magazine with articles, news, and photos, costing £2.20 for four issues.
• MAGIC SAUCER: A UFO magazine for children and the young at heart, priced at $2.43 per year or 41p per copy.

Publications Exchange

PROBE lists numerous publications with which it exchanges issues. These include a wide array of UFO and related magazines from the UK (e.g., AWARENESS, BUFORA JOURNAL, EARTHLINK, FORESIGHT, LANTERN, MAGONIA, MERSEY NEWS, NORTHERN UFO NEWS, OCCULT WORLD, SEARCH, SKYWATCH, UFO NEWS BULLETIN, UFOSIS NEWSSHEET) as well as international publications from the USA, Canada, Australia, France, Denmark, Turkey, Sweden, Yugoslavia, Germany, and Italy.

Cartoon

A small cartoon depicts two figures, one saying "HEY HANK! THE PEOPLE ALREADY LOOK LIKE ANTS!" and the other responding "THEY ARE ANTS. WE HAVEN'T TAKEN OFF YET!". The scene is labeled "USA" and "APOLLO XIX", suggesting a commentary on space exploration or human perspective.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the interpretation of UFO encounters, the nature of consciousness and psychic phenomena, and the dissemination of UFO-related information through magazines and books. The editorial stance appears to be open to various interpretations of UFO events, encouraging reader contributions and discussion, while also engaging in the commercial aspect of the UFO community through book sales and advertisements for related publications. The inclusion of the cartoon and the book sale suggests an effort to cater to a broad range of interests within the UFO readership.