PROJECT RED BOOK

Magazine Overview

Title: PROJECT RED BOOK
Issue: Vol 3 #6
Date: December 1999
Publisher: YUFOS Yorkshire UFO Society
Price: £1:50

This issue of PROJECT RED BOOK, published by the Yorkshire UFO Society, presents a diverse range of articles focusing on UFO phenomena, government involvement, and scientific investigation. The cover highlights key features including an analysis of alien DNA, the CIA's role in UFO studies, and a UFO crash in Swedish Lake.

Key Articles and Features

DNA Sample from Abduction Case Raises Big Questions

This article, co-authored by CNI News and Bill Chalker, details a remarkable abduction case from Australia. Peter Khoury, the subject, experienced a deeply disturbing contact in July 1988, which changed his life. He later recovered an unusual strand of hair from the encounter. In July 1992, he had another experience with sexual aspects, from which he recovered two thin blond strands of hair. These samples were later tested by the Anomaly Physical Evidence Group. The DNA analysis revealed five distinctive markers characteristic of a rare sub-group of the Chinese Mongoloid racial type, a finding that suggests the hair did not come from a normal human of that racial type. Mitochondrial DNA analysis suggests a common female ancestor with four other individuals on record, all Chinese with black hair. The article explores the implications of this finding, including the possibility of human panspermia or other unusual biological origins.

The CIA's Role in the Study of UFOs, 1947-90 (part 3)

Authored by Gerald K. Haines, this installment focuses on the 1960s, detailing the declining CIA involvement and mounting controversy surrounding UFO studies. Despite public pressure and calls for transparency, the CIA maintained a cautious stance. In 1964, DCI John McCone requested an updated evaluation of UFOs, leading to OSI's review of NICAP data. The findings indicated no threat to national security and no evidence of foreign origin. Simultaneously, a public-pressure-driven Air Force committee, chaired by Dr. Brian O'Brien and including Carl Sagan, reviewed Project BLUE BOOK, concluding that UFOs did not pose a national security threat and that extraterrestrial origins were improbable. The article also covers the Air Force's request for declassification of the Robertson panel report and the CIA's refusal, drawing criticism from the press. It further details the establishment of the Condon Committee, its investigation, and its eventual conclusion that further extensive study of UFOs was unwarranted, recommending the discontinuation of Project BLUE BOOK. The CIA's role in providing technical advice to the Condon Committee is also discussed, albeit with an emphasis on maintaining a low profile.

The article then moves into the 1970s and 1980s, noting that the UFO issue refused to die despite the Condon report. UFOlogists continued to believe in a CIA cover-up, leading to a FOIA lawsuit by Ground Saucer Watch (GSW). The CIA conducted a search and released 355 documents, though some were withheld for national security reasons. Despite the released documents revealing only low-level interest, the press sensationalized the findings. DCI Stansfield Turner was reportedly surprised by the press coverage, and an internal review found no organized Agency effort to research UFO phenomena since the 1950s. The lawsuit was eventually dismissed. In the late 1970s and 1980s, the CIA maintained a low-key interest, with some focus shifting to parapsychology and psychic phenomena. Counterintelligence concerns also led the Agency to examine UFO sightings for information on Soviet technology and US vulnerabilities.

Swedish Military Search for Fallen UFO in Lake

This brief article by Clas Svahn of UFO/Sweden investigates reports of a Swedish military search for a fallen UFO in a lake. Further details are not provided in this excerpt.

Christmas, Religion & UFology

Andy Ashmore offers an irreverent look at the festive period in relation to ufology.

Forum

Eileen Fletcher contributes a piece with a 'Moongate rebuttal'.

German Airships in 1913?

Dr. David Clarke examines recent Guardian reprints of UFO reports from the past, specifically concerning German airships in 1913.

An Idiot's Guide to UFO-Spotting (pt3)

This installment continues a guide to UFO-spotting, covering meteors, satellites, and light-shows.

From Around the World...And Beyond!!

This section provides a collection of brief news items, including a minister opening Britain's "X-Files", the Beast of Bodmin, the confirmation of extra-solar planets as 'real', and reports of stampeding cattle.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the persistent nature of the UFO phenomenon, the perceived government secrecy and cover-ups, and the ongoing efforts to scientifically investigate these events. The editorial stance, as indicated by the content and the disclaimer that views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the Editor or YUFOS members, is one of open inquiry into unexplained aerial phenomena, presenting various perspectives and case studies without necessarily endorsing any single conclusion.

The magazine appears to be a platform for enthusiasts and researchers to share information, case studies, and analyses of UFO sightings and related mysteries, often with a critical eye towards official explanations and government transparency. The inclusion of historical reviews, scientific investigations (like the DNA case), and news briefs suggests a commitment to exploring the breadth of the UFO topic. The publication also seems to encourage reader engagement through its 'Forum' section.

This issue of YUFOS magazine, dated December 1999, focuses on a significant event in Sweden: the military search for a fallen UFO in Lake Backsjön. The issue also explores the intersection of religion and ufology, historical UFO cases, and explanations for common sightings.

Swedish Military Search for Fallen UFO in Lake Backsjön

The lead article details the events surrounding a suspected UFO crash in Lake Backsjön, Sweden, on July 27, 1999. Multiple witnesses reported seeing an oblong object with small wings plunge from the sky and crash into the lake. The military, initially alerted by local police, conducted extensive searches over several weeks. Chief of staff Stellan Jansson, responsible for the search, confirmed the reliability of the witnesses. In September, under the code name 'Operation Sea Find,' a team of 14, including eight divers, utilized sophisticated sonar equipment and an underwater camera. Despite a thorough search of 75% of the lake, with visibility limited to ten centimeters, the military found only a metal barrel and a plastic bag. The official conclusion was that the witnesses' claims could not be verified. The search costed 150,000 Swedish crowns, and UFO-Sweden has requested the declassification of parts of the report.

Christmas, Religion and UFology

Andrew Ashmore's article explores the parallels between religious narratives and UFO phenomena. He suggests that events like the Star of Bethlehem could be interpreted as UFO sightings and that the Virgin birth might be analogous to alien abduction. Ashmore posits that biblical 'miracles' could be explained by advanced technology. He argues that while religious beliefs are generally accepted, UFOlogy faces ridicule, despite both fields dealing with extraordinary claims. He advises patience, believing that the truth will eventually emerge.

Forum: "Moon-gate"...the saga continues...

Eileen Fletcher initiates a discussion about a book (authored by Bennett and Percy) that questions the authenticity of the Apollo moon landings. The book claims that the journey and return would not have been possible due to radiation issues, despite NASA's claims. Fletcher highlights discrepancies in TV pictures and still images from the missions and challenges NASA's lack of legal action against the book's authors. She also notes the book's discussion of moon rock composition and age, and invites readers and ufologists to share their views or evidence supporting the book's findings.

German Airships in 1913?

Dr. David Clarke revisits a historical account from The Guardian Century, reproducing an article from the Manchester Guardian dated February 27, 1913. The original article discusses reports of mysterious lights in the sky, attributed to German airships. Clarke notes that the original report was remarkably balanced and cautious, contrasting it with modern journalism. He suggests that misinterpreting these lights could have had serious consequences, potentially leading to war. The article also mentions the planet Venus as a possible explanation for some sightings. Clarke's revised paper on the British 1909 airship wave is mentioned as being published in Fortean Studies Vol 6.

The Idiot's Guide to UFO-Spotting (Pt 3): Or: Removing the 'Un' from Unidentified...

Dave Baker's ongoing series continues with explanations for common UFO sightings. This section focuses on 'Nocturnal Lights,' specifically meteors and satellites.

Meteors

Baker explains that meteorites, or 'shooting stars,' are space-borne rocks burning up in the atmosphere. He notes that their fiery trails can be alarming and that their brief duration often leads to misidentification. He also discusses bolides, larger meteors that can be brilliant green or blue, produce sounds, and sometimes break into flaming fragments, potentially explaining reports of 'exploding' or 'dividing' UFOs. He mentions the 'Howden Moor Incident' and the Childes & Whitted report as examples potentially explained by bolides.

Satellites

Baker likens the re-entry of 'space-junk' (satellites losing orbit) to meteors, noting that their longer duration and heat-resistant panels distinguish them. He also explains how satellites moving in an arc can appear as white 'stars' that seem to jerk or stop due to optical illusions caused by eye movements ('autostasis'). He warns about the 'Law of Nature' that seems to affect sky-watches.

Searchlights

Baker recounts his experience with the Yorkshire UFO Society, where reports of disc-like UFOs cavorting in the sky were later identified as reflections of searchlight beams from a new nightclub onto low-lying clouds. He also describes a case where a car's headlights reflecting on a hill's cloud layer were mistaken for a UFO. He concludes that headlights of distant vehicles and powerful hand-held torches can also be misidentified.

From Around the World... And Beyond!!

This section compiles UFO-related news from various sources.

Minister to Open Britain's X-Files

Ian Kirby reports that Defence Minister Peter Kilfoyle is set to release thousands of top-secret government X-Files on UFO investigations spanning 30 years. These files will include photos and details of reports, as well as plans for dealing with an alien invasion. The release is part of a government initiative to end unnecessary secrecy. Notable cases mentioned include a 900ft UFO flying off the North Sea coast, claims of seven UFO crashes since WWII, a triangular space-ship sighting in Rendlesham Forest, and an incident involving a US airman and a hovering object. The article also references the 1962 Anne Heston sighting and the 1947 Roswell incident, suggesting that the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has recorded 9,000 UFO sightings since 1959.

Beast of Bodmin Evades RAF Cameras

This brief report states that efforts by RAF reserve volunteers to capture the legendary Beast of Bodmin on film have failed due to bad weather. Despite using the latest military night-vision equipment, low cloud and mist prevented clear sightings, though intruder detection devices were triggered. The article notes that while many Cornish farmers believe in large, savage animals, a 1995 government report found no evidence of big cats on Bodmin Moor.

Astronomers Prove Extrasolar Planets Real

This article details a significant astronomical discovery: the first independent confirmation of an extrasolar planet through the observation of its shadow crossing its star. Astronomers Geoffrey Marcy and Paul Butler, using data from the star HD 209458, estimated the planet's orbit and mass. The planet, larger than Jupiter but with a lower mass, suggests that such planets may form farther from their stars and migrate inward. This discovery is supported by research from NASA and the National Science Foundation.

Huge Object Over Papua, New Guinea

Bill Chalker reports on a massive object witnessed in New Britain, Papua New Guinea, on November 4, 1999. Descriptions varied, with some calling it a craft with large lumps and flickering lights, moving slowly and making a 'puffing noise,' possibly an airship. Others described it as a huge craft hovering just above the sea, with smaller craft circling it. Estimates placed the object's size at around 200-300 meters long and 50 meters wide.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the unexplained, presenting various UFO sightings and incidents alongside potential rational explanations. There's a clear interest in debunking common misconceptions while also acknowledging the possibility of genuine unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging readers to question and investigate, rather than blindly accept or dismiss claims. The inclusion of historical cases and scientific discoveries suggests a broad approach to the study of the unusual. The magazine also touches upon the societal and psychological aspects of belief in the paranormal and the potential for misinterpretation.

YUFOS magazine, Volume 3, Issue 6, dated December 1999, is an English-language publication from Australia. The cover headline focuses on a 'Large Flying Object Wakes Sleepy Town,' with other prominent stories including a 'Cattle Stampede A Mystery' and a notice for the 'Next Meeting'.

UFO Sighting in Vuvu

The magazine reports on a sighting by several boys in Vuvu who observed a UFO. Alex, one of the witnesses, described the object as noiseless and oblong in shape, with bright lights around its edges and a top like a pyramid with lights. The object was entirely white. The boys estimated it took 30 minutes to pass them. When the object hovered over them, the surrounding area lit up as if it were daylight, and they could see people nearby. The object eventually disappeared over the mountains near Vuvu. Another local, John Mcleod, manager of the Malangan Beach resort in New Ireland province, also watched the event and initially thought it was a satellite re-entry, though the description suggests it might have been something else entirely. The report questions whether it was an airship or blimp, calling it a 'spectacular one'.

Cattle Stampede A Mystery

This section, sourced from Oz & Asia Data Research Phenomena Research Australia and originally appearing in a State of Victoria Broadsheet newspaper, details a baffling cattle stampede on Queensland's Darling Downs. Every morning, between approximately 5 and 6:30 AM, thousands of cattle on half a dozen properties near Chinchilla, as well as on neighbouring properties at Jandowie and Manango, are described as being 'haunted' and charging westward. Farmers do not believe dingoes, emus, or army exercises are the cause. Graziers Zora and John Poulsen, who own 1000 head, believe the cattle could be indicating possible seismic activity. Mrs Poulsen stated, 'They're just absolutely haunted,' and noted that it doesn't seem to affect the horses, only the cattle. The cause of the phenomenon remains unknown.

Stop Press: Large Flying Object Wakes Sleepy Town

This 'Stop Press' item reports on experts investigating a mysterious flying object that landed in an Australian dam near the town of Guyra, located 250 miles north of Sydney. The object left a large crater and then sank beneath the mud. Police have cordoned off a one-mile area around the dam. The object, possibly a meteorite or aircraft sewage, left a crater measuring 15 metres long and 6 metres wide. Scientists interviewed have ruled out a UFO or space junk as the cause.

Next Meeting Notice

The magazine includes a notice for the next YUFOS meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, January 2000, from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM at The Three Cranes, Queen Street, Sheffield City Centre. The meeting is described as 'THE FIRST MEETING OF THE NEW MILLENIUM!!' and humorously noted as 'exactly the same as usual, then.'

Christmas and New Year Greeting

The second page of the magazine contains a festive greeting: 'A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM ALL AT YUFOS!'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained aerial phenomena (UFOs) and unusual animal behavior potentially linked to geophysical events. The magazine presents witness accounts of UFO sightings and reports on a mysterious cattle stampede, with a speculative link to seismic activity. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these phenomena, encouraging investigation, and maintaining a sense of curiosity, as evidenced by the speculative nature of the reports and the humorous tone of the meeting notice. The publication also includes a standard disclaimer about the source of some reports, indicating a commitment to presenting information from various research groups.