Pursuit - No 31 - Vol 08 No 3 - 1975

Magazine Overview

Title: PURSUIT
Issue: Vol. 8 No. 3
Date: July, 1975
Publisher: Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained
Tagline: "SCIENCE IS THE PURSUIT OF THE UNEXPLAINED"

This issue of PURSUIT, the quarterly journal of the Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained, delves into various aspects of unexplained phenomena, with a significant focus on ufology and astronomy. The cover features the magazine's title, a tagline, issue details, and a stylized graphic of a flying object.

Organization and Membership

The Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained is managed by a Board of Trustees in New Jersey and is counselled by a Scientific Advisory Board. It is apolitical and does not comment on human medicine, psychology, social sciences, law, religion, or ethics. Membership is $10 per year, providing access to the quarterly journal PURSUIT, an Annual Report, and other publications. Members are welcome to visit the Headquarters Library by appointment. The Society emphasizes that one does not need to be a professional scientist to join.

Publications

PURSUIT is published quarterly in January, April, July, and October. The journal is listed in Ulrich's International Periodicals Directory and the Standard Guide to Periodicals, and is abstracted in Abstracts of Folklore Studies. Back issues are available, and the publication is also available on microfilm. The price for a reel is $4.10.

Contents Overview

This issue features articles across several categories:

Ufology

• Introduction: Sets the stage for the discussion on flying saucers.
• An Analysis of the Fish Model, by Walter N. Webb: This is the lead article, detailing Marjorie Fish's work in validating the Betty Hill star map. It explores the implications for extraterrestrial life and interstellar travel.

Biology

• Preliminary Description of the External Morphology of What Appeared to be the Fresh Corpse of a Hitherto Unknown Form of Living Hominid, Part II, by Ivan T. Sanderson: Continues a detailed description of a biological specimen.

Interviews and Investigations

• An Interview With Tim Dinsdale, by Marty Wolf: An interview with a notable figure in ufology.
• Bigfoot in New Jersey?, by Robert E. Jones: Investigates reports of Bigfoot in New Jersey.
• An Interview With Bob Morgan, by Marty Wolf: Another interview exploring unexplained phenomena.

Anthropology

• Some Reflections on Pyramid Slope Angles, by Stuart W. Greenwood: Explores the geometry and potential significance of pyramid structures.

Miscellaneous

• Chaos and Confusion: A section likely covering various unexplained events.
• Vile Vortices, or a Disquisition on Certain Madness Maritime, by R. J. Durant: Discusses unusual maritime phenomena.
• Notes from a Member, by Ron Marsh: Contributions from a society member.
• Department of Loose Ends / Department of Loose, Loose Ends: Sections dedicated to miscellaneous or unresolved topics.
• Book Review: A review of a relevant book.

Feature Article: An Analysis of the Fish Model

The central article, "An Analysis of the Fish Model" by Walter N. Webb, details Marjorie E. Fish's extensive research into the star map described by Betty and Barney Hill during their alleged UFO abduction in 1961. Fish, an elementary schoolteacher, spent six years constructing three-dimensional models of the space surrounding the sun to identify the star pattern. Her work aimed to validate the Hill's account by finding a tangible, verifiable element.

Webb explains that the Hill experience became a classic case in UFO annals, with the star map being a key element. Mrs. Hill reproduced the map under post-hypnotic suggestion in 1964, depicting a pattern of stars and lines allegedly showing routes of trade and exploration from an alien home star.

Marjorie Fish's methodology involved creating numerous models, with the final one consisting of 259 beads representing stars, scaled by spectral class, distance, and direction. Her search, spanning six years and involving the checking of thousands of stars, ultimately yielded only one unique pattern that matched the Hill map. This pattern included 12 stars connected by lines, plus three background stars forming a triangle.

Key Findings of the Fish Study:

• Star Suitability for Life: The stars in the identified pattern are exclusively of spectral types F8 to K1, considered by exobiologists to be the most suitable for the evolution of intelligent life. These are single, nonfluctuating, main-sequence stars with lifetimes of 7 to 40 billion years.
• Zeta Reticuli as Origin: The pattern is centered around Zeta Reticuli, a star system resembling our sun. Fish hypothesized that the abductors' home star would be similar to our sun, and Zeta Reticuli fits this criterion.
• Geographical Representation: The model suggests the map was viewed from a vantage point near the origin star, with our sun also present. The volume of space depicted is approximately 48 light years wide, 48 light years deep, and 32 light years high.
• Trade Routes: The lines connecting the stars depict logical travel sequences, linking Zeta Reticuli with nearby stars suitable for life. Other stellar types are avoided, likely due to factors like rapid rotation, short lifetimes, or instability.
• Evidence Against Hoax: Webb highlights that a background triangle in the map, formed by stars Gliese 86.1, 95, and Kappa Fornacis, could not have been accurately drawn in 1964. Gliese 86.1 was not listed in star catalogs until a 1969 publication, and the parallaxes for the other two stars were not well-known at the time, making it improbable for Mrs. Hill to have fabricated this detail.
• Betty Hill's Knowledge: Webb notes that Mrs. Hill's knowledge of astronomy was severely limited, making it unlikely she could have devised such a complex and accurate star pattern.

Scenario of Exploration from Zeta Reticuli:

Based on Fish's model, Webb constructs a speculative scenario of interstellar exploration. He suggests that the Zeta Reticulans, possessing advanced spaceflight capabilities, likely explored planets orbiting Zeta¹ and Zeta² Reticuli. The map indicates travel to other stars like Zeta Tucanae, Alpha Mensae, 82 Eridani, and Tau Ceti, with the sun and Earth being a priority objective. The scenario considers the possibility of a "galactic federation" and the use of time-dilation for interstellar travel.

Summary and Conclusions

Walter N. Webb expresses strong confidence in Marjorie Fish's research, stating that her investigations were carried out in a thoroughly scientific manner. He confirms her data by checking it against star catalogs. Webb concludes that Fish's work is a significant accomplishment, revealing a unique star pattern that strongly supports the reality of the UFO phenomenon and the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of PURSUIT demonstrates a consistent editorial stance favoring the serious investigation of unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs. The magazine provides a platform for detailed research, such as Marjorie Fish's analysis of the Betty Hill star map, which is presented as a potential breakthrough in UFO evidence. The publication actively seeks to validate accounts that are often dismissed by mainstream science, encouraging discussion and further research. The inclusion of articles on biology, anthropology, and miscellaneous topics suggests a broad interest in the unexplained, while the focus on rigorous analysis and scientific methodology underscores the journal's commitment to its mission.

This issue of "Genus" (Volume 18, Issue 18, dated March 1969) primarily focuses on the controversial "Minnesota Iceman" case, astronomical research related to UFOs, and cryptozoological reports concerning Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster.

The Minnesota Iceman Case

The article details the investigation into a specimen known as the "Minnesota Iceman," initially presented as a genuine unknown primate. Ivan T. Sanderson and Dr. Bernard Heuvelmans studied the body, which was encased in ice. Sanderson's personal opinion is that the "original" model and a later "substitute" are one and the same, likely a carnival exhibit made of latex rubber and hair. The Smithsonian Institution withdrew its interest, concluding it was a hoax. The article discusses the possibility of it being a composite or a construction, with model-makers in Hollywood identified as potentially involved in creating such a specimen. Dr. John Napier, Director of the Primate Biology Program at the Smithsonian, expressed skepticism, believing it to be a hoax. The article notes that the specimen was removed from public display and a fabricated copy was made.

Marjorie Fish's Astronomical Research

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the work of Marjorie Fish, a former elementary schoolteacher who developed models of the solar neighborhood based on a star map drawn by Betty Hill, a UFO witness. Fish's research suggests that the 12 network stars on the map fulfill exobiological criteria, being single, nonvariable, slowly rotating, late F-to-early K main-sequence dwarfs with stable lifetimes. The lines connecting these stars are interpreted as a logical travel sequence. The prominent background triangle in the map was not known to exist when Betty Hill drew it in 1964, adding to its significance. The article posits that if the Hill map resulted from contact with extraterrestrials, it provides evidence of interstellar visitation, indicates the origin of some UFOs, and offers clues about the abductors' home star and planetary environment. The author suggests that such an advanced galactic culture might be "indistinguishable from magic" and possess technology far beyond human comprehension, potentially having little interest in communicating with us.

Marjorie Fish's work is presented as a "stunning breakthrough" with implications for UFO research, exobiology, and astronomy, despite a perceived lack of recognition from the scientific community. Her 10-parsec model has been used for student study at Ohio State University. Astronomers like Walter Mitchell provided some non-UFO assistance, and J. Allen Hynek has some of her models. David R. Saunders reproduced the Hill star map on a computer using Fish's data.

Cryptozoology: Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster

Bigfoot in New Jersey

Robert E. Jones investigates reports of Bigfoot sightings in Sussex County, New Jersey. He has interviewed 18 witnesses who describe seeing a large, hairy, ape-like creature. The reports are consistent, describing typical Bigfoot characteristics. Jones notes that ten accounts involve the animal crossing a road, and others describe sightings by hunters, game wardens, and campers. Five witnesses reported daytime sightings. The fur color is often described as grayish-brown. Two specific sightings are detailed: one where a contractor narrowly avoided hitting the creature, and another involving a game warden and a companion witnessing a confrontation between a Bigfoot-like creature and a wild dog over a killed deer.

Jones concludes that while the evidence is primarily anecdotal, the witnesses appear reliable and have little to gain by reporting their encounters. He suggests that a small group of Bigfoot-type animals could survive in the wild, mountainous area of Northwest New Jersey. An investigation effort is being organized to explore the Bear Swamp area.

Interview with Bob Morgan

Marty Wolf interviews Bob Morgan, a Bigfoot investigator who has also worked in the Pacific Northwest. Morgan discusses his research formula, suggesting that 40% of people seeking him out are lonely or seeking attention, another 40% are mistaken, and only 20% consist of facts. He recounts a report from Richard Davis of Cape Coral, Florida, who claimed to have fired a shot at a tall, hairy, ape-like creature that was about fifteen feet away. Davis reported being unable to fire subsequent shots, attributing it to a mental block.

Interview with Tim Dinsdale

Marty Wolf interviews Tim Dinsdale, an expert on the Loch Ness Monster. Dinsdale reports on two private expeditions to Loch Ness, during which he recorded new sightings. One sighting involved two young men describing "very big humps" in the water. Another sighting by two lads described a long-necked specimen, about six feet out of the water and as thick as a telephone pole. Dinsdale also mentions a similar neck sighting in 1971. He discusses the challenges of research, including equipment failures, such as a sonar-triggered underwater flash photo equipment that was damaged during deployment. Dinsdale is working on a book titled "Project WaterHorse" about his experiences.

Technical Notes on Illustrations

The issue includes technical notes on the accompanying illustrations. The first two plates are rescaled reproductions of technical drawings made from measurements and sketches of the Minnesota Iceman specimen. The subsequent five plates are photographs taken by the Society's photographer, Miss Marion Fawcett, with specific notes on the conditions under which they were taken.

Subsidiary Note

A Smithsonian Institution release from May 8, 1969, is included, stating their withdrawal of interest in the "Minnesota Iceman" due to information suggesting it was a carnival exhibit made of latex rubber and hair. The release notes that the original specimen was removed and a model was made for exhibit.

Editorial Secretary's Correspondence

A letter from Ivan T. Sanderson to the "Comitato Italiano per lo Studio dei Problemi della Popolazione" dated August 9, 1969, discusses the Minnesota Iceman specimen. Sanderson reiterates his belief that the specimen inspected was genuine, but acknowledges that a model was subsequently made for exhibition. He stands by his original findings, apart from taxonomic exercises.

Conclusion

This paper describes the preliminary inspection of a corpse that appeared to be a large primate of hominid form. The author notes that while a "composite" theory is possible, the body does not conform to any known hominid or pongid, nor to any reconstruction of fossil man or ape. The author dissociates himself from the appellation "Homo pongoides" suggested by Heuvelmans. The conclusion is that the specimen was a genuine primate corpse, possibly an anthropoid from a divergent branch, but its exact classification remains uncertain until proper examination. The article also touches upon the possibility of a genetic grid origin for both hominids and pongids.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of anomalous phenomena, including UFOs, unknown primates (like the Minnesota Iceman and Bigfoot), and aquatic mysteries (Loch Ness Monster). The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards these phenomena, encouraging scientific investigation while acknowledging the challenges of hoaxes and misidentification. There is a clear emphasis on presenting evidence, witness testimony, and the researchers' interpretations, often highlighting the skepticism of the mainstream scientific community towards these subjects. The issue champions the pursuit of truth in these areas, even when facing ridicule or lack of acceptance.

This collection of magazine issues, identified as Pursuit, covers a range of topics related to fortean phenomena, including Bigfoot sightings, the Bermuda Triangle, and ancient Egyptian mysteries. The issues span from number 71 to 80, with content primarily in English.

Bigfoot Sightings and Evidence

The magazine presents several detailed accounts of Bigfoot sightings, primarily from Florida. One report describes a creature heard thrashing and splashing near a house in Cape Coral after a shot was fired, with subsequent findings of hair and footprint impressions. Another incident near Lake Okeechobee involved a car accident caused by a large, hairy creature, resulting in vehicle damage and unusual behavior from the witness's dogs. Hair samples were collected and sent for analysis. A sighting near Saga Bay involved a large, hairy creature observed by Miccosukee Indians and Park Rangers. In Homestead, tracks of a barefooted, large hominid creature were found originating from the Everglades National Park. The issue also discusses the nomenclature of Bigfoot, preferring 'Bigfoots' over 'Bigfeet' and suggesting 'Omar' as a potential scientific name.

Bermuda Triangle and Vile Vortices

Ron Durant contributes an article questioning the reality of the 'Vile Vortices' and the Bermuda Triangle as areas of inexplicable disappearances. He references the work of Lawrence Kusche, whose book 'The Bermuda Triangle Mystery Solved' is described as a meticulous and honest analysis. Kusche's research reconstructs events from newspaper accounts and official reports, suggesting that many Triangle cases are not as mysterious as popularly believed, often being ordinary marine disasters exaggerated over time. The article debunks the widely quoted radio transmission from the loss of six Navy aircraft in 1945, stating it does not appear in any official Navy report.

Ancient Egyptian Pyramids and Astronomy

Stuart W. Greenwood's article, "Some Reflections on Pyramid Slope Angles," explores the astronomical significance of the Great Pyramid and other Egyptian pyramids. The author investigates the possibility that the specific slope angles were chosen for astronomical reasons, possibly related to the Ecliptic plane. The article discusses how the orientation of the pyramid faces might align with celestial bodies. It presents data on pyramid slopes and compares them to calculated ratios of height to half-base length. The author also examines the variation in the Obliquity of the Ecliptic over geological time and suggests that construction dates derived from these astronomical alignments may predate conventional anthropological estimates, proposing unconventional dates for pyramids like Meydum, Dashur, and Giza.

Anthropological Theories and Speculations

In the context of Bigfoot, there is a discussion about the creature's potential identity, with speculation that it might be Gigantopithecus or an unclassified form of Homo Erectus. The article touches upon the discovery of Homo Erectus remains in Australia dating back as little as ten thousand years ago, challenging established timelines and highlighting gaps in anthropological knowledge. The author expresses frustration with the human ego's resistance to new scientific ideas.

Miscellaneous Notes and Book Reviews

The magazine includes various short sections. "Department of Loose Ends" addresses subscription changes, the availability of SITU members for radio shows, and the continuation of the 'Kronos' journal focusing on Velikovsky. A section on "Fake Members and Self-Appointed Representatives" warns readers to verify the credentials of anyone claiming to represent the Society. There's a mention of a 'Bulgarian Cyclops' case being a misinterpretation of a shattered skull. A book review of "Mankind-Child of the Stars" by Max H. Flindt and Otto O. Binder is presented. While acknowledging the intriguing theory that extraterrestrials may have manipulated human evolution, the review criticizes the book for factual errors and speculative explanations, particularly regarding the Proconsul fossil record.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in these issues of Pursuit are the investigation of unexplained phenomena, the critical examination of popular mysteries, and the exploration of alternative scientific and historical theories. The magazine appears to adopt a stance that encourages skepticism towards sensationalized accounts while remaining open to rigorous, evidence-based research into fortean subjects. There is a clear emphasis on debunking misinformation, particularly concerning the Bermuda Triangle, and on presenting detailed analyses of evidence, even when it challenges established scientific or historical paradigms, such as in the case of pyramid construction dates and the potential identity of Bigfoot.

This document is a directory of the leadership and advisory members of The Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained (SIU). It outlines the structure of the organization by listing individuals who serve on its Governing Board, Executive Board, Editorial Board, and a comprehensive Scientific Advisory Board. The publication date and specific issue details are not provided.

Governing Board

The Governing Board is composed of several key individuals, with specific roles indicated. Robert C. Warth serves as Trustee and President pro tem. R. Martin Wolf is Trustee and Vice-President pro tem. Sabina W. Sanderson holds the position of Trustee and Secretary. Adolph L. Heuer, Jr. is the Trustee and Treasurer. Other Trustees include Ray Naugle, Robert J. Durant, Robert E. Jones, Albena E. Zwerver, and Walter J. McGraw.

Executive Board

The Executive Board comprises administrative and operational leadership. Robert C. Warth is the Administrative Director. Albena E. Zwerver serves as the Executive Secretary. Robert J. Durant is the Technical Consultant. Carl J. Pabst is the Research Consultant, and Walter J. McGraw is responsible for Mass Media.

Editorial Board

The Editorial Board is responsible for the content and publications of the society. Sabina W. Sanderson is the Executive Editor. Robert J. Durant is the Managing Editor, and Walter J. McGraw is the Consulting Editor.

Scientific Advisory Board

The Scientific Advisory Board is a large and diverse group of academics and experts from around the world, representing a wide array of scientific disciplines. Key members and their affiliations include:

• Dr. George A. Agogino: Chairman, Department of Anthropology, and Director, Paleo-Indian Institute, Eastern New Mexico University (Archaeology).
• Dr. N. Burtshak-Abramovitch: Academician, Georgian Academy of Science, Palaeobiological Institute, University of Tblisi (Palaeontology).
• Dr. Carl H. Delacato: Director, The Institute for the Rehabilitation of the Brain Injured, Morton, Pa (Mentalogy).
• Dr. W. C. Osman Hill: Affiliated with Dublin and London (Comparative Anatomy).
• Dr. J. Allen Hynek: Director, Lindheimer Astronomical Research Center, Northwestern University (Astronomy).
• Dr. George C. Kennedy: Professor of Geology, Institute of Geophysics, U.C.L.A. (Geomorphology and Geophysics).
• Dr. Martin Kruskal: Program in Applied Mathematics, Princeton University (Mathematics).
• Dr. Samuel B. McDowell: Professor of Biology, Rutgers University, Newark, N. J. (General Biology).
• Dr. Vladimir Markotic: Professor of Anthropology, Department of Archaeology, University of Alberta, Canada (Ethnosociology and Ethnology).
• Dr. Kirtley F. Mather: Professor of Geology, Emeritus, Harvard University (Geology).
• Dr. John R. Napier: Unit of Primate Biology, Queen Elizabeth College, University of London (Physical Anthropology).
• Dr. W. Ted Roth: Assistant Director, Baltimore Zoo, Baltimore, Maryland (Ecologist & Zoogeographer).
• Dr. Frank B. Salisbury: Head, Plant Science Department, College of Agriculture, Utah State University (Phytochemistry).
• Dr. Berthold Eric Schwarz: Consultant (Brain-Wave Laboratory), Essex County Medical Center, Cedar Grove, New Jersey (Mental Sciences).
• Dr. Roger W. Wescott: Professor and Chairman, Department of Anthropology, Drew University, Madison, New Jersey (Cultural Anthropology and Linguistics).
• Dr. A. Joseph Wraight: Chief Geographer, U. S. Coast & Geodetic Survey (Geography and Oceanography).
• Dr. Robert K. Zuck: Professor and Chairman, Department of Botany, Drew University, Madison, New Jersey (Botany).

Publisher and Printer Information

Page 2 contains information about the printer: HICKS PRINTING COMPANY, located at 37 BELVIDERE AVENUE, WASHINGTON, NEW JERSEY, with a telephone number 201-689-0194.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The document's primary focus is organizational structure and the breadth of expertise within The Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained. It highlights a commitment to interdisciplinary research by assembling a diverse Scientific Advisory Board composed of distinguished academics from various fields. The extensive list of members and their affiliations suggests a serious and well-established organization dedicated to investigating unexplained phenomena through rigorous scientific inquiry.