Probe Report Volume 4 Issue 2

Magazine Overview

Title: PROBE REPORT
Issue: Vol 4 No 2
Date: October 1983
Publisher: PROBE UFO Investigation Organisation
Country: ENGLAND
Language: English
ISSN: 0260-8189

This issue of PROBE REPORT, the Journal of UFO Investigation, features a prominent cover story with the headline "Martians are back" and a lead article titled "The Trail of the Big 'UFO' Mystery," accompanied by an illustration of a flying saucer. The magazine also includes an editorial reflecting on the publication's history and the state of UFO journalism, a "Signals" section for letters to the editor, and a book sale advertisement.

Editorial

The editor, Ian Mrzyglod, reflects on the magazine's origins, starting with "PROBE volume 1, number 1" in June 1980. He acknowledges the initial naivety and the financial challenges faced by such publications, noting that many UFO magazines have ceased publication over the years. He highlights several journals that continue to make a positive contribution to British UFO publishing, including FLYING SAUCER REVIEW, NORTHERN UFO NEWS, and MAGONIA. The editorial also mentions upcoming publications and initiatives from BUFORA, such as the "JOURNAL OF TRANSIENT AERIAL PHENOMENA" and the planned "BUFORA PROBE" in January 1984. Mrzyglod expresses a sense of closure for PROBE REPORT, noting that while his dream of a widely circulated, instructive journal may not have fully materialized, he thanks those who helped make it partially a reality. He also addresses the issue of a returned magazine, asking subscribers or exchange partners who did not receive Volume 4, number last to contact him.

Signals (Letters to the Editor)

The "Signals" section features correspondence from readers. M.R. Wootten criticizes the "Signals" page for becoming a "BATTLEFIELD" where investigators condemn each other's work, citing examples of personal attacks and unprofessional conduct. He argues that such disputes hinder the true origin of UFOs being discovered. Ian Mrzyglod, in response, sympathizes with the sentiment but explains that he feels compelled to publish criticisms to allow others to see what is being said, while also acknowledging that strong criticism of new theories is essential for highlighting flaws. He notes that personal attacks often arise from people reacting too strongly to criticism or from rudeness and narrow-mindedness, and that arguments stimulate reader engagement.

Steuart Campbell replies to Paul Devereux's reaction to his review of "EARTH LIGHTS." Campbell defends his review, refuting Devereux's claims of "professional libel" and questioning Devereux's own arguments and correlations regarding stone circles and tectonic relationships. Campbell also addresses Devereux's comments on vitrified forts and the Jennings "ball lightning" photograph, asserting that Devereux is "hopelessly out of order" and wilfully disregards facts. Campbell concludes by questioning Devereux's own contributions to UFO research.

Manfred Cassirer expresses sorrow over the decision to cease PROBE REPORT's publication, attributing the financial difficulties to the state of ufology generally. He suggests that if the magazine had focused more on sensational "Dick Barton-type" investigations, sales might have been higher. He hopes PROBE will continue its "ego-deflating activities."

Peter Tate, Chairman of UFO INTERNATIONAL, also expresses regret over the closure and praises the latest issue for its ideas and controversy. He wishes PROBE success with BUFORA PROBE.

Book Sale

PROBE is selling a number of surplus books following the closure of PROBE UFO Investigation Organisation. The list includes titles such as "FLYING SAUCER VIEWPOINT," "BEYOND EARTH: MAN'S CONTACT WITH UFOS," "UNIDENTIFIED FLYING OBJECTS," "THE UFONAUTS," "THE UFO EXPERIENCE," "UNINVITED VISITORS," "INVISIBLE RESIDENTS," "UFOS? YES!," "THE FLYING SAUCERERS," "UFO MAGIC IN MOTION," "STRANGERS FROM THE SKIES," "THE SKY PEOPLE," "OPERATION EARTH," and "THE FLYING SAUCER STORY." Prices range from 50p to £1.00, with postage costs specified. Applications are to be sent to PROBE at 16 Marigold Walk, Ashton, Bristol.

Driving Us Round in Circles

This extensive article by Ian Mrzyglod examines the phenomenon of "mystery circles" in cornfields, which gained significant media attention in 1983. The author expresses reluctance to cover the topic extensively due to previous coverage and the potential to wrongly link circles to UFOs, stating that "certainly none exists." However, the article details the 1983 appearances, noting the geometric arrangement of formations and the media's strong emphasis on UFO connections. The author criticizes the "ignorance shown by many apparently experienced UFO investigators" who were quick to dismiss the whirlwind theory, preferring more exotic UFO explanations.

The article recounts the discovery of several circle formations in Wiltshire and Hampshire, including those at Westbury White Horse, Cheesefoot Head, and Wantage. It discusses the whirlwind hypothesis, initially presented by Dr. G. Terence Meaden, and how the 1983 events began to challenge its applicability, particularly the Wantage circles appearing on flat terrain. The author also examines the possibility of a hoax, detailing how Francis Shephard, son of a local farmer, demonstrated how circles could be created using a heavy chain. This demonstration, initially reported in the press, led to further investigation and a re-evaluation of the hoax theory.

• Key points from the article include:
• Initial Appearances: The first set of five circles appeared at Westbury White Horse on July 11th, 1983, attracting significant media attention.
• Whirlwind Theory: This theory suggests that air masses create whirlwinds that flatten corn. While it explained some earlier formations, new evidence challenged its consistency.
• Hoax Theory: The possibility of a hoax was investigated, particularly after Francis Shephard demonstrated creating circles with a chain. This was linked to a DAILY MIRROR report about the Shephard family's involvement.
• Evidence: The article notes the lack of photographic evidence of circles forming and minimal witness testimony. A telephone call to HTV about a reported whirlwind was untraceable.
• Analysis of 1980 Circles: Old photographs of 1980 circles suggested the presence of satellite circles, potentially indicating a longer history for the five-formation pattern.
• Rejection of Hoax: Despite the Shephard demonstration, the article ultimately rejects a widespread hoax theory, noting that the Shephards did not own land where other circles appeared, and suggesting that a team of jokers might be responsible for some formations.
• New Developments: The article mentions that PROBE members, along with SCUFORI and Dr. Meaden, planned a "circle-watch" for the summer of 1984 to gather photographic evidence of circles forming.

The article concludes that while the whirlwind theory faced challenges and the hoax theory was re-evaluated, no definitive explanation for all the formations had been found, leaving the mystery unresolved.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of PROBE REPORT include the ongoing investigation into UFO phenomena, with a particular focus on the crop circle mystery. The editorial stance, as expressed by Ian Mrzyglod, is one of critical inquiry and a desire to present factual information, even when it involves challenging established beliefs or dealing with the financial realities of publishing. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between constructive criticism and personal attacks within the UFO community. The magazine also appears to maintain a cautious approach to sensationalism, as evidenced by its reluctance to immediately link crop circles to UFOs and its detailed examination of various theories, including natural phenomena and potential hoaxes. The closure of PROBE UFO Investigation Organisation marks the end of an era for the publication, but there is an indication of future collaborative efforts within the UFO research community.

PROBE REPORT, Volume 4, Issue 1, dated January 1984, is a magazine focused on UFO phenomena and related mysteries. This issue features a prominent cover story titled "UFO-CAR CHASE NEAR FROME" by Martin Shipp, detailing a sighting by Steven and Julie Dayman-Johns. The magazine also includes articles exploring the psychology of UFO experiences, the potential for hoaxes in crop circle phenomena, and the investigation of a specific witness case.

UFO-Car Chase Near Frome

The main report details a sighting that occurred on April 9th, 1980, involving Steven and Julie Dayman-Johns near Nunney, Somerset. The witnesses observed a white light/object moving at high speed, stopping abruptly, and then moving off again. The object was described as having a "darker" ring around its top and later exhibited a vertical beam of white light emanating from its centre. The SCUFORI investigation, which included interviews, site visits, and attempts to gather meteorological and aircraft data, classified the main part of the sighting as UNIDENTIFIED, finding no man-made or natural phenomena that could fully explain the observations.

Reflections on the Yellow Brick Road

This section by Douglas Payne offers a psychological perspective on UFO experiences, particularly close encounters. Payne discusses the discrepancies between objective reality and subjective experience, drawing parallels to altered states of consciousness and hallucinations. He suggests that UFO reports may represent externalized mental imagery or vivid subjective experiences that are not necessarily tied to objective reality. The article critiques Jenny Randles' "spectrum of reality" and proposes a reality-consciousness matrix to better understand these phenomena.

In Search of Fame & Fortune

Jenny Randles critically examines cases where the pursuit of fame or fortune might motivate individuals to fabricate UFO experiences or hoaxes. She highlights the importance of investigating 'explained' cases to understand true UFO phenomena and warns against being led astray by elaborate hoaxes. Randles discusses the SCUFORI investigation into an MIB hoax and her own previous description of a hoax, emphasizing the need for critical evaluation of witness testimony and investigator capabilities.

The article then details the case of a witness known as 'Terry', who claimed multiple UFO sightings and encounters in Devon in April 1981. The investigation by PUFOIC, with assistance from others, revealed inconsistencies in Terry's story, a history of mental health issues, and a pattern of seeking publicity. The investigation concluded that Terry had perpetrated a hoax, possibly driven by a desire for fame and fortune, and the case was abandoned before regression hypnosis experiments could be conducted.

Crop Circle Theories: Hoax vs. Natural Phenomena

The magazine explores various theories regarding the origin of crop circles. The article "Conclusions?" presents three basic solutions: 1) Whirlwinds, suggesting that some circles might be natural formations, with the exception of known facsimile formations. 2) A combination of whirlwinds and hoaxes, where later appearances might have been 'doctored'. 3) A deliberate hoax, gradually escalating to gain media attention. The possibility of experimental hoaxes to test methods or gauge public reaction is also considered. Evidence from researchers like Dr. G.T. Meaden and reports of similar phenomena are discussed. The article acknowledges that the situation has become too distorted to definitively clarify which circles are natural and which are hoaxes.

Other Content

The issue includes a list of references, a map illustrating the location of the UFO-car chase, and witness sketches of the observed phenomena. It also features a note about an upcoming index for PROBE and PROBE REPORT.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

PROBE REPORT consistently adopts a critical and investigative stance towards UFO phenomena. The magazine emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation, the potential for hoaxes, and the need for psychological analysis when evaluating witness testimony. There is a clear effort to differentiate between genuine unexplained phenomena and cases that can be explained by natural causes or human deception. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious skepticism, encouraging researchers to remain open-minded but also vigilant against misinterpretations and fabrications.

This document consists of book reviews from a publication focused on paranormal and ufological topics. The issue number is 19, and it appears to be from Volume 2, with a raw date of '19'. The publisher is The Aquarian Press, and the country of publication is England.

Book Reviews

THE EVIDENCE FOR UFOS by Hilary Evans This book, published by The Aquarian Press in collaboration with ASSAP, is described as a basic introduction to the UFO phenomenon, intended for new readers. It evaluates existing theories and discusses the social and cultural implications of UFO sightings. The author, Hilary Evans, attempts to assess various types of evidence (physical, witness, photographic) and acknowledges that no single explanation can solve all UFO cases. The reviewer, Ian Vrzyglod, notes that while the book doesn't present new theories, it offers a concise summary of current ufological trends and reminds readers that UFOs exist despite a perceived drought in reports. Evans speculates on four sources of UFO phenomena, including the possibility of extraterrestrial origin, which surprised the reviewer.

THE EVIDENCE FOR VISIONS OF THE VIRGIN MARY by Kevin McClure Also published by The Aquarian Press in collaboration with ASSAP, this book examines alleged Marian apparitions. Reviewer Geoff Bird states that Kevin McClure handles the sensitive subject admirably, presenting a well-written, level-headed, and sane approach that does not disrespect religion. The book analyzes well-known and lesser-known apparitions, noting the difficulty in impartial investigation due to the nature of witnesses and authorities. The assessment concludes that a strong subjective element is involved, and while messages may not constitute proof of supernatural visitation, witnesses might possess psychic abilities. The reviewer notes the omission of recent investigations into the Fatima case, which the author states were ufologically oriented and will be covered in a future publication.

EVOLUTION FROM SPACE by Fred Hoyle and Chandra Wickramasinghe Published by Paladin (Granada), this book is described as startling and controversial. The authors argue that evolution has been subject to cosmic influence, proposing an anti-Darwinian theory that relates biology to astronomy. They suggest that genes are cosmic in origin, arriving as DNA or RNA propelled by light waves from stars. The reviewer, Geoff Bird, notes that the book will likely not endear the authors to the scientific establishment but is recommended for readers with a scientific bent, though it might be heavy for the general reader.

PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICE IN THE PENNINES (A SPECIAL BOOK REVIEW) This section features a special review of Jenny Randles' book, 'THE PENNINE UFO MYSTERY', published by Granada Publishing. The reviewer, Hilary Evans, praises the book for its honest, unsensationalized, and well-documented account of UFO happenings in West Yorkshire. She highlights Randles' ability to steer a middle course between an official report and a popular account, presenting events in their complexity and acknowledging contributions from various individuals and groups. The book is commended for its references, attributions, and acknowledgements, with incidents traced back to original sources. Randles' broad knowledge allows for parallels with other cases, and her awareness of research studies illuminates the Pennine incidents. The reviewer notes minor shortcomings, such as the lack of maps and a chronological timetable, and the omission of Rutledge's PROJECT IDENTIFICATION. However, the book is considered a triumphant vindication of Randles' policy of maintaining high standards. The review emphasizes that UFOs are still active and are being studied with greater expertise, crediting Randles as a spokesperson for a new school of scientifically-minded investigators. The reviewer concludes that Jenny Randles is the best ufologist, and the book is a must-buy for those interested in what ufology is really about.

Back Issue Service A service is offered for back issues of the magazine, listing available volumes and issues with prices. Orders can be placed with PROBE at 16 Marigold Walk, Ashton, Bristol.

Also Available "UFO/IFO: A PROCESS OF ELIMINATION" is also available for purchase from SCUFORI, 29 Lethbridge Road, Swindon.

Cartoon A cartoon depicts an alien asking about local reports and needing a lift home, referencing the 'SWINDON CENTRE FOR UFO RESEARCH AND INVESTIGATION'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance The publication appears to focus on UFO phenomena, paranormal investigations, and alternative scientific theories. The editorial stance, as reflected in the book reviews, favors serious, well-documented, and unsensationalized approaches to these subjects. There is an emphasis on scientific rigor and critical analysis, even when discussing controversial topics like extraterrestrial origins or alternative evolutionary theories. The reviews consistently praise authors who present balanced perspectives and acknowledge the complexity of the phenomena. The publication seems to advocate for a multi-disciplinary approach to ufology, moving beyond single-hypothesis explanations.