Probe Report Volume 2 Issue 4

Magazine Overview

Title: THE PROBE REPORT
Issue: Vol. 2, No. 4
Date: March 1982
Publisher: PROBE UFO Research Organisation
Country: England
ISSN: 0260-8189
Price: £2.00 for four issues, post paid.

This issue of The Probe Report, the official publication of the PROBE UFO Research Organisation, is published quarterly. The cover prominently features the title 'THE PROBE REPORT' and the main headline 'NUTS & BOLTS AND THE NEW AGE', accompanied by illustrations of clouds and a UFO. The issue delves into various aspects of ufology, investigation methodologies, and related phenomena.

Editorial Stance and Organisation News

The editorial section clarifies PROBE's position on the establishment of UFO resource centres, labelling the concept a 'waste of resources'. The organisation argues that their investigative approach relies on direct information from authorities and specialized sources, rather than pooling resources into libraries. They also state that new members should be involved in active investigation and research, not just in funding collections. The publication also notes the cessation of FUFOR and MAPIT, with their staff and facilities absorbed into the newly formed OSEAP (Organisation for Scientific Evaluation of Aerial Phenomena), which will publish 'OSEAP JOURNAL' and 'CENTRE UPDATE'. Other organisational news includes the temporary halt of 'MERSEY NEWS' due to financial difficulties and the ongoing transitional period for the British Flying Saucer Bureau (BFSB). The British UFO Society (BUFOS) is highlighted for undertaking a responsible investigation into a photographic case.

A special one-off supplement titled 'UFO/IFO: A PROCESS OF ELIMINATION' is mentioned, which aims to examine areas requiring expertise beyond ufology and how knowledge in relevant fields can help identify unexplained cases. This supplement is a joint production by SCUFORI and PROBE and will include reports of recent cases.

The magazine also reports that old UFO INFO Data Sheets are no longer available, but old UFO INFO magazines are on sale for 40p each.

Letters to the Editor (Signals)

Several letters discuss the ongoing debate about crop circles. Chris Franklin from Emsworth argues that the symmetry and roundness of crop circles in Warminster and Winchester suggest they were made by a solid object hovering just off the ground, rather than a whirlwind. He notes the coincidence of these locations being known for UFO reports. The editor's note suggests that these circles might attract more attention due to the locations' UFO-rich history.

Crystal Hogben from Worcs, editor of MAGIC SAUCER, questions if there are any photographs of whirlwinds causing damage to cornfields, seeking a comparison with crop circle photos. She also comments on the 'New Age' concept, emphasizing that it involves internal knowledge rather than blind belief. Hogben expresses concern that some 'New Agers' feel 'dejected' by discussions of IFOs (Identified Flying Objects) and prefer to focus on subjective experiences. She wonders if Arthur Shuttlewood has positive inner feelings about the Westbury Circles being UFOs and if psychics have reported similar phenomena.

Another letter from Crystal Hogben discusses the nature of 'inner feelings' versus 'knowledge', likening them to religious beliefs that may not reflect objective truth. She suggests that belief in UFOs causing crop circles stems from a desire for it to be true, rather than supporting evidence. The letter also mentions that PROBE has lost subscribers due to its 'attitude' of presenting facts that may contradict beliefs, and that the magazine will continue to publish IFO accounts.

Eric W. Crew from Broxbourne writes about Ian Ridpath's article 'Exposé', referencing George H. Leonard's book 'Someone else is on our Moon' and P. Kolosimo's 'Not of this World'. Crew suggests that the Moon's low gravity and potential for excavation could allow for comfortable accommodation for advanced civilizations. He points to features in lunar photographs that might indicate non-natural processes and mentions similar discussions regarding Mars, such as the 'sphinx' face. Crew warns that debunking articles by scientists can mislead readers into dismissing unconventional ideas entirely.

Eric Westley of UFOSIS is addressed in a letter from SCUFORI regarding MAUFOG (an organisation of UFO groups). SCUFORI views MAUFOG's instigation in 1978 as a positive step for southern England groups but notes its loose nature led to a wide diversity of outlooks. SCUFORI, PROBE, and UFO International found themselves increasingly distant from less active groups and felt MAUFOG was becoming obsolete due to a lack of response and a majority of apathetic groups. SCUFORI explains that proposals for radical changes to tighten the organisation were rejected, leading PROBE and UFO International to resign, followed by BFSB. SCUFORI also resigned, stating MAUFOG had become a burden and moved backwards.

A Last Word on Whirlwinds

This article by Ian Mrzyglod revisits the topic of mystery circles appearing in cornfields, previously discussed in the magazine. The author reiterates PROBE's position as a reporting journal that deals with facts and avoids wild speculation, emphasizing that investigations occur after the event, requiring speculation based on obtained facts. While acknowledging the need for speculation, PROBE distinguishes it as 'constructive speculation' that stays within known criteria and is open to revision with new information.

The article presents facts about the crop circles: they occurred in near-perfect circular patterns, the flattened crop lay clockwise, and the circles measured between 25 and 60 feet in diameter. It also states that conditions were ideal for whirlwinds, which are known to exist, have been seen and photographed, and have caused crop damage in the past. The author concludes that while whirlwinds are a plausible theory, there is no evidence to support UFOs as the cause, calling suggestions of UFO landing nests 'wildly speculative wishful thinking'. PROBE maintains that beliefs unsupported by evidence cannot be considered of value.

The article then presents photographic evidence and information provided by Dr. G.T. Meaden, featuring a sequence of photographs taken by Mr. Roy Williamson on August 18, 1976, in Essex, England. These photos document a whirlwind in dramatic action over a harvested field. Mr. Williamson described the event, noting a small gust of wind that picked up earth and straw, followed by a larger gust that intensified the whirl. The whirlwind travelled along the edge of the field and then crossed it, reaching a diameter of about 30 metres and considerable height. The article concludes that such intense whirlwinds could indeed damage cereal fields, supporting the meteorological explanation for crop circles.

Other Articles and Features

• Signals - Letters to the Editor: Includes discussions on crop circles, the 'New Age' movement, and organizational matters within ufology.
• A Last Word on Whirlwinds by Ian Mrzyglod: Argues for whirlwinds as a plausible cause for crop circles, presenting photographic evidence and refuting UFO explanations due to lack of evidence.
• Book Reviews: (Content not detailed in OCR)
• Cats Eye UFOs with Possible EM Effects by Ian Mrzyglod: (Content not detailed in OCR)
• Terry's Skywatch Page by Terry Chivers: (Content not detailed in OCR)
• A UFO Photo That Wasn't (Case Closed) by Marty Moffatt: (Content not detailed in OCR)
• Nuts & Bolts and the New Age by Geoff Bird: (Content not detailed in OCR)

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include a critical examination of UFO investigation methodologies, particularly the debate between passive research (resource centres) and active investigation. The magazine strongly advocates for the latter. There is a clear emphasis on presenting factual evidence and avoiding unsubstantiated speculation, as demonstrated in the discussion of crop circles. The issue also touches upon the evolving landscape of UFO organisations and the influence of broader cultural movements like the 'New Age' on ufological thought. The editorial stance is one of scientific skepticism, prioritizing evidence-based conclusions and challenging popular beliefs when they lack empirical support. The magazine aims to provide a platform for reporting on UFO phenomena while maintaining a rigorous and analytical approach.

This issue of PROBE, Volume 3, Number 1, dated February 1982, is a UK-based magazine focusing on UFOs and related phenomena. It features book reviews, an investigative report on a UFO sighting with possible electromagnetic effects, and a discussion of a photographic case that was deemed a hoax. The cover headline highlights 'CATS EYE UFOS WITH POSSIBLE EM EFFECTS'. The price is £1.25.

Book Reviews

ALIEN CONTACT by Jenny Randles & Paul Whetnall

This book, published by Neville Spearman, details the experiences of the Sunderland family of Oakenholt, North Wales, with alleged alien contact from July 1976 to the present. The review notes that the book is divided into three parts: a chronological account of the events, the history of how the case came to light, and an analysis of existing theories. The reviewer acknowledges that while no one may believe the children visited other planets, the authors attempt to establish what initiated these dreams or hallucinations. The review points out minor errors in the text and criticizes the publisher's editor for adding annoying remarks. Despite these issues, Part 3 is described as stimulating and the book a worthwhile addition to ufological literature.

POLTERGEIST! by Colin Wilson

Published by New English Library, this book is a lengthy study of poltergeist activity, hauntings, and possessions, drawing parallels with fairy sightings. It includes a gruesome account of a spiritist healer and touches on witchcraft, multiple personality, and ley lines. Chapter 4, focusing on the 'Black Monk of Pontefract', is highlighted as particularly interesting, presenting Wilson's theory on poltergeist energy. The reviewer calls it an excellent reference book.

BEYOND THE LIGHT BARRIER by Elizabeth Klarer

Published by Howard Timmins in South Africa, this book recounts the author's childhood encounter with a UFO and subsequent visual sightings and telepathic contacts with alien beings, specifically Akon, an astro-physicist from the planet Meton. The reviewer finds the narrative overly romantic and 'mushy trash', likening it to Barbara Cartland. While acknowledging potential interesting points, such as contact from another star system and beam teleportation, the reviewer dismisses the spaceship photographs as embarrassing. The book is treated as fantasy, though it is noted that Mrs. Klarer has been welcomed at UFO conferences.

VANISHINGS by Michael Harrison

This book is reviewed as an enjoyable novel, though the reviewer learned nothing of value from it. It attempts to present a different picture of mysterious disappearances, asserting their authenticity. The reviewer, having recently read Paul Begg's 'Into Thin Air', finds Harrison's claims about the David Lang disappearance to be fact, but prefers Begg's account. The book is described as interesting but should be taken 'with a sackful of salt'.

JUDGEMENT OF JUPITER by Richard A. Tilms

This book explores the possibility of disastrous natural events in the next decade due to a Grand Planetary Alignment that began in 1976 and will last until 1993. Tilms cites NASA and Nostradamus as sources. The reviewer suggests buying the book, reading it, and watching for future events, while noting Patrick Moore's skepticism about the alignment.

ROUND-UP

This section mentions the paperback publication of 'The Roswell Incident' by Granada, noting the continued inclusion of the 'alien' photograph despite its April Fool's joke status. It also promotes Granada's science fiction offerings, including works by Brian Aldiss ('The Dark Light Years', 'Hothouse', 'Galaxies Like Grains of Sand', 'Starswarm') and Harry Harrison ('Starworld'), as well as Ian Watson's 'God's World'.

CATS EYE UFOS WITH POSSIBLE EM EFFECTS

This investigative report by Ian Mrzyglod details a UFO sighting by a witness identified as Elizabeth Edwards, who requested her identity be withheld. The case, originating from a letter to PROBE in March 1981, occurred in August 1980. While driving home to Warminster on the B3095 road at 10:45 pm, Mrs. Edwards heard a strange, deafening noise that enveloped her car, leading her to believe it was about to break down. She accelerated, and after about 1.5 miles, the noise faded. She then saw an enormous, brilliant white, long light suspended against a hillside, which quickly switched off. Subsequently, two yellow oblong lights, described as 'cats' eyes', appeared with increasing intensity before fading. The entire event lasted only a few seconds.

The investigation involved a re-run of the event and analysis of potential causes. The noise was investigated, with the possibility of it being related to low voltage (240 volts) or 11,000 volts power lines crossing the road. The Southern Electricity Board confirmed the presence of these lines but stated that the car radio would only be affected if stationary and directly underneath the low voltage line, and that the 11,000 volt line would not cause such a noise. The car, a 1974 Ford Cortina Mk III estate, performed normally afterwards and produced no similar noises.

The light sources were also examined. The initial white light was visible for about 6 seconds, and the two yellow lights for about 3 seconds. A site survey estimated the size of the white light to be between 50 and 100 feet. Astronomical information indicated the Moon was at an elevation of 22 degrees, but its reflection was ruled out due to the angle of the glass and its position relative to the witness. Coronal discharge was also considered, but the SEB stated it was unlikely to detach and move from extra high voltage lines. Other light sources were also ruled out.

The conclusion of the report is that both the noise and the light sources remain unexplained. PROBE speculates that they might be connected. The possibility of Piezoelectricity was considered but not emphasized due to its inability to account for the noise and the limited knowledge about it. PROBE has ceased investigation into this case, treating the elements as unidentified, pending any further information.

TERRY'S SKYWATCH PAGE

This page, written by Terry, discusses recent skywatching experiences in the Warminster area. He recounts an incident on a freezing cold December 5th night on Cradle Hill, where he was waiting for other skywatchers. While listening to a radio program about ghosts, he heard a loud thump on his car roof. He panicked and started the car, only to discover it was an Army soldier who had thumped the roof with his fist as he ran past. Later, when the others arrived, they decided to continue their skywatching at the Old Bell pub. Another incident involved getting stuck in a four-foot snow drift on Cradle Hill in late January.

Terry concludes that the skywatch scene is finishing with this issue, but the page may return occasionally. He states that skywatching is no longer seen as essential or beneficial, serving only to learn about stars and planets. He expresses that he will still make the odd trip up there.

A UFO PHOTO THAT WASN'T

This report by Marty Moffatt details a SCUFORI investigation into an alleged UFO sighting near Axminster in February 1980. The witness, 13-year-old Robert Hargreaves, claimed to have seen a cream-colored disc-shaped object and taken a photograph. The investigation, however, concluded the event was a hoax.

According to the witness's account, he was taking photos of the surrounding area when he noticed an object moving from the west. He described it as disc-shaped, creamy white with red dots on top, approximately 50 feet in diameter, and visible for about two minutes. The photograph was taken to a local newspaper, leading to the investigation.

SCUFORI engaged Ground Saucer Watch (GSW) in Arizona, USA, for computer analysis of the photograph. GSW's analysis, using techniques like edge enhancement, concluded that the photo was a fake. However, when SCUFORI presented these findings to the witness, neither he nor his mother accepted the evaluation. A second opinion was sought from Kodak, which concluded that the 'object' was a piece of debris attached to the negative during processing, directly contradicting GSW's findings.

Further attempts to get the photo analyzed by other institutions, including polytechnics and the Science Research Council, had limited success. Dr. Vernon Harrison of the Royal Photographic Society also found his findings inconclusive. Ultimately, SCUFORI decided that continuing the investigation would be a waste of time and money. The SCUFORI team re-examined the report and concluded that the case was a hoax.

The report also briefly describes GSW's methods, including edge enhancement, which magnifies density changes to reveal details like supporting devices or appendages.

Advertisements

Two advertisements are included: one for 'John Trotter, Middle East Books', offering rare and out-of-print books on various esoteric subjects, and another for 'OCCULT WORLD', an independent magazine covering occult traditions and Pagan co-operation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently features detailed investigations into UFO sightings, book reviews that critically assess ufological and paranormal literature, and personal accounts of experiences. There is a clear emphasis on rigorous investigation and a skeptical approach, as evidenced by the conclusion of the Axminster photo case as a hoax. The magazine also touches upon related phenomena like poltergeists and alleged alien contact, often presenting multiple theories and perspectives. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry combined with a demand for evidence and logical explanation, while acknowledging the existence of unexplained phenomena.

This issue of PROBE, dated May 1982, features a "CASE CLOSED" cover headline, indicating a resolution to a specific investigation. The magazine is published by PROBE PRESS and includes articles and advertisements related to ufology and related phenomena.

Analysis of a Photograph

The main article details the investigation of a photograph by SCUFORI (the South Coast UFO Research Association) and GSW. The photograph was subjected to several advanced analytical techniques:

• Digitising: This process divided the picture into over 245,000 parts, assigning a grey value (0-255) to each to determine light and shade, which could then be used to calculate the comparative distance of points in the photo. Mid-range values indicated features at a distance, while high or low values suggested foreground features less affected by atmospheric glare.
• Colour Contouring: Using up to 32 colours, this technique mapped areas of different image densities, providing information on the object's shape, relation to distance, and reflectivity.
• Profile Cursor: Vertical lines superimposed on the image traced specific densities, allowing for a profile view of the object's depth.

After applying these methods, GSW concluded that the object in the photograph was approximately 6 to 8 inches in diameter and less than 21 feet from the camera, leading them to conclude it was not a photograph of a UFO.

Analysis by Kodak Ltd: A spokesman from Kodak suggested the image could have been formed by a small piece of debris or emulsion on the film during processing, though no particle was visible even under high magnification.

SCUFORI's Conclusion: SCUFORI was not convinced by Kodak's explanation, noting that the shadow impression on the object was consistent with other shadows on the photo, indicating it was subject to the same lighting conditions. They found the coincidence of such a shadow too high to be acceptable.

Evaluation and Conclusion: The case presented unique challenges for SCUFORI, taking 18 months to complete the report. Difficulties in following up the sighting, the witness's shyness, and the novelty of a photographic case meant that SCUFORI focused most resources on photo analysis. Despite this, the report contained sufficient information. The GSW analysis was deemed the most plausible. The witness's report contained significant discrepancies, giving the impression of dishonesty. SCUFORI speculated that the witness might have fabricated the sighting by throwing a small object into the air, or unconsciously distorted an observation. Ultimately, SCUFORI's aim was to discover if the photo depicted an unusual aerial phenomenon, and sadly, the answer was no.

Nuts & Bolts and the New Age

This article, by Geoff Bird, addresses criticism that PROBE focuses too much on the "nuts and bolts" aspect of ufology, neglecting the "Aquarian aspect." Bird defends PROBE's approach, stating their commitment to high standards and their role as an intelligence service that must digest all relevant material. He argues that the subject of UFOs is an unknown quantity that touches on diverse fields like comparative religion and psychology, necessitating an examination of all concepts, however bizarre.

Bird is currently conducting an investigation for ASSAP that encompasses ufology, psychic phenomena, psychology, and Earth Mysteries research, requiring both skepticism and an open mind. He discusses the potential for exciting discoveries if an underground water course or ley line is found under a property, which would support Earth Mysteries theories and excite "new ufologists." However, he stresses the need for conclusive evidence and warns against half-measures.

He also touches upon telepathic messages from extraterrestrial beings, noting that many messages convey obvious warnings about environmental destruction, starvation, and weapons of mass destruction. Bird links this to the "Age of Aquarius," stating that such an age requires a fundamental change in human hearts and minds, which is difficult due to the influence of the scientific establishment that demands scientific evidence for UFOs.

Bird acknowledges "New Age groups" that operate with established belief systems but emphasizes PROBE's commitment to diligent investigation and improving methodology. He states he is not against "New Age groups" and knows members of such groups personally, believing there is room for different types of research and levels of study. The core problem, he suggests, is one of standards, leading to the need for a Code of Practice to isolate negative elements within ufology and enhance credibility. He notes that many "New Age" groups have dubious or even sinister standards, citing examples like Guyana and Synanon, and that some "encounter" groups use methods akin to the KGB.

Bird proposes a simple guide for discerning truth: the basic morality taught by Jesus Christ. He believes this can help sort "wheat from the chaff" and identify cranks versus those with honest beliefs. He acknowledges that psychic phenomena are sometimes produced by "New Age" groups and merits attention, as one cannot assume a psychic will have no religious beliefs or that a UFO witness will be uninformed.

Bird's philosophy is that both scientific and "New Age" schools of thought should pursue truth independently. He quotes Schopenhauer: "The more unintelligent a man is, the less mysterious existence seems to him."

Letters

This section contains a letter from Marty Moffatt of SCUFORI, Swindon, Wiltshire. He discusses the minutes of the last MAUFOG meeting held in Bristol on August 8th, 1981. SCUFORI had asked all groups wishing to continue with MAUFOG to respond within 14 days. No group replied, confirming allegations of apathy, and SCUFORI considered MAUFOG to have ceased to exist. Moffatt expresses sympathy for comments made by "Eric" and states that MAUFOG is no longer necessary as lines of communication between groups have been opened. He believes that favourable outcomes from discussions between BUFORA, UFOIN, NUFON, and PROBE may eliminate the need for individual networks. He also notes a correction to a previous reference: "International Astronomical Union Circular 3149 (1977)".

Advertisements

The issue includes several advertisements:

• TRIPLE ECHO: Recommended magazine for science fiction fans, offering news, reviews, artwork, and cartoons. An annual subscription costs £2.
• Cambridge UFO Research Group: Publishes a 40-page newsletter every three months, including investigated UFO cases, actual UFO photos, and witness drawings. The subscription is $10.00 USD per year.
• Mutual UFO Network (N.Z.): Offers microfiche of the Kaikoura UFO data and New Zealand reports, including government copies of Kaikoura UFO Air Traffic Control Tapes.
• UFO Network: Offers a new, updated directory of UFO and strange phenomena organizations, groups, societies, and publications worldwide, including book, photo, and cassette suppliers. The cost is £3 (or $7 USD overseas).

Publication Information

The magazine is printed by PROBE PRESS in 1982.

Joint Production: UFO/IFO: A PROCESS OF ELIMINATION

An advertisement promotes a joint SCUFORI / PROBE publication titled "UFO/IFO: A PROCESS OF ELIMINATION," available in May 1982 for 80p plus 20p postage. This publication is described as an investigative study into areas where UFO investigators delve to conduct thorough investigations. It features contributions from experts illustrating how their knowledge and experience are used to eliminate possible 'culprits' for UFO sightings and shows the assortment of effects that can be misconstrued as UFOs. The publication is fully illustrated with photographs and diagrams, is 44 pages long, and available from SCUFORI in Swindon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of PROBE demonstrates a commitment to rigorous, scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, as exemplified by the detailed analysis of the "CASE CLOSED" photograph. The magazine appears to adopt a critical stance towards unsubstantiated claims, particularly those associated with some "New Age" groups, while still acknowledging the broader scope of research that touches upon psychic phenomena and Earth Mysteries. The editorial stance emphasizes the importance of high standards, evidence-based conclusions, and a methodical approach to ufology, advocating for a Code of Practice to enhance the credibility of serious researchers. The publication also serves as a platform for promoting related research and publications within the ufology community.