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Pursuit - No 62 - Vol 16 No 2 - 1983

Summary & Cover Pursuit - SITU (Sanderson)

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Overview

Title: Pursuit Issue: Volume 16, Number 2 (Whole Number 62) Date: Second Quarter 1983 Publisher: The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained (SITU) Description: This issue of Pursuit magazine focuses on a variety of unexplained phenomena, including a reported UFO…

Magazine Overview

Title: Pursuit
Issue: Volume 16, Number 2 (Whole Number 62)
Date: Second Quarter 1983
Publisher: The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained (SITU)
Description: This issue of Pursuit magazine focuses on a variety of unexplained phenomena, including a reported UFO sighting, ancient legends of hidden vaults, and theoretical physics related to teleportation. The journal maintains its commitment to exploring subjects that orthodox science may overlook.

A Train of UFOs

The cover story, "A Train of UFOs" by Warren Eggé (as told to Bob Warth), details a personal encounter with an unidentified aerial phenomenon. On the evening of June 6, 1983, while sailing aboard the 44-foot ketch Beluga approximately 150 miles east of Cape May, New Jersey, Eggé and his friend Lou Burlingame observed a peculiar light. At approximately 22:00 hours EDT, a two-tone blob of light approached from the west and passed silently overhead for about 7 to 9 seconds. Both witnesses agreed that the object displayed two shades of blue: a light blue interior, likened to a Bunsen burner flame, surrounded by a darker blue corona that formed a long tail. The object did not appear solid and was described as translucent.

Editorial: The Sanderson Prescription

The editorial section features "The Sanderson Prescription" by Ivan Sanderson, the founder of SITU. This piece revisits Sanderson's views on education, emphasizing the distinction between teaching (imparting techniques) and education (fostering understanding and critical thinking). Sanderson believed education should involve three fundamental aspects: factual information, principles of classification, and the stimulus to cerebration (how to think). He argued that the primary duty of educators is to stimulate pupils to use their minds to comprehend reality, suggesting that presenting information in a way that encourages thinking is paramount.

Vaults of Time

Andrew Paul Tomas's article, "Vaults of Time," explores ancient legends and myths from various cultures that suggest the existence of hidden underground vaults or repositories. The article draws parallels between different traditions, including:

  • Ancient Greece: Myths of disguised history and the discovery of Troy and the Minoan civilization.
  • Hindu and Tibetan Folklore: Legends of flying Nagas living in underground palaces with fabulous treasures, and sacred books hidden in Naga caves.
  • China: The concept of the "Sons of Heaven" and a community of starmen in the Kun Lun mountains, with a huge underground library.
  • Central Asia: The Roerichs' accounts of Tibetan monasteries containing descriptions of "iron serpents" and artifacts of sky gods in a deep grotto under the Potala Palace in Lhasa.
  • Mexico: The myth of Quetzalcoatl burying golden tablets containing world history.
  • South America: Legends of treasures of the Children of the Sun buried in the Andes, with extensive tunnel systems described in Peru and Bolivia.

The article also references modern speculation, such as Dr. Frank Drake's and Dr. Matest Agrest's ideas about ancient astronauts hiding artifacts. It touches upon the writings of Ferdinand Ossendowski regarding secret galleries in Mongolia and Garcilasso de la Vega's accounts of Inca treasures.

Further exploration into "Vaults of Time" includes:

  • Egypt: The Leiden Papyrus describing dark corridors and illuminated crypts, and the historical accounts of Ammianus Marcellinus and Arab scholars regarding subterranean passages built before the Flood. The article mentions the Giza Pyramids, with legends of secret vaults containing sciences, unusual objects like rustless iron and bendable glass, and mechanical statues (robots).
  • Rosicrucians and Freemasons: Traditions of underground crypts and secret societies, including Count Alessandro di Cagliostro's alleged discovery of a deep underground gallery leading to a hall with crystal walls.
  • Druzes of Lebanon and Syria: Their doctrine of "Sons of God" and coded books, with a challenge from Prince Kemal Joumblat about initiated Druzes leaving seals on the walls of hidden galleries, predicting the opening of an ancient storehouse.
  • Mahatma Letters: Correspondence from Koot Humi to Alfred P. Sinnett discussing the Great Pyramid's purpose as protection for tangible objects related to occult mysteries.
  • Napoleon Bonaparte: His experience inside the Great Pyramid in 1799, where he reportedly received a revelation about his destiny.
  • Khufu Pyramid: Accounts of remarkable incidents, including secret entryways and a humanoid guard, as described by a couple in the 1930s.
  • Himalayas: The legend of Mount Kanchenjunga and a secret underground museum for lama novitiates containing relief maps of vanished continents and texts from another planet.

The article concludes that the purpose of these vaults was likely a warning from a lost civilization about the consequences of a planetary crisis, mirroring past self-destruction.

Physics of Short-Range Teleportation

Daniel Eden's article, "Physics of Short-Range Teleportation," proposes a theoretical model for how objects might achieve short-range teleportation through a process called "barrier oscillation." This concept, building on "Barrier Physics Notes" from a previous issue, suggests that objects can oscillate in and out of our world. The article introduces equations relating barrier frequency ($f_b$) to coining frequency ($f_c$), where $f_c = 2 f_b$. It explains that a barrier-oscillating mass with a velocity component towards a wall could theoretically swerve around it or pass through it by displacing into a higher space (R4).

The model uses a sine wave equation ($q = A ext{ sin } (2 ext{π}x ext{ ± } ext{φ})$) to describe the path of the oscillating mass. The article suggests that the total energy of oscillation (E) can be related to the amplitude (A) of this displacement into higher space. By measuring the heat absorbed by the mass after oscillation, one could estimate the total energy and thus the amplitude. An example problem calculates the amplitude for a chunk of iron, resulting in an estimated displacement of 4.7 inches.

The author notes that this model could explain phenomena like UFOs appearing and disappearing ("coining") and even the movement of humanoids described in Raymond Fowler's book, The Andreasson Affair, who reportedly moved through a closed door in a "jerky motion, leaving a vapory image behind."

Space Law: Contact with Extraterrestrial Life: Some Legal Considerations

This section features a report by Daniel Hill Zafren, a specialist in American Public Law at the Congressional Research Service, Library of Congress. The report addresses legal questions surrounding potential contact with extraterrestrial life, prompted by an article in a previous issue. It clarifies that there is no federal law in the U.S. making contact with extraterrestrial entities illegal, although NASA has regulations concerning extraterrestrial exposures.

The report discusses the diverse opinions among space law observers regarding the need for interplanetary law. Some argue that such considerations are premature, while others believe that legal frameworks should parallel the recognition of the possibility of extraterrestrial life. The concept of "metalaw," based on a humanitarian concept, is mentioned as a potential approach.

The article highlights that as space technology advances, the possibility of encountering nonhuman intelligent beings becomes more probable, necessitating a consideration of legal issues. It poses questions about whether laws should be created proactively for speculative future events or developed as new technologies emerge and their impacts become clearer.

Other Contents

This issue also includes a table of contents listing various articles, such as "Physics of Short-Range Teleportation" by Daniel Eden, "Space Law - 'Contact with Extraterrestrial Life: Some Legal Considerations,'" a Library of Congress Report by Daniel Hill Zafren, and "The Ultimate Cover-Up" by Robert C. Girard. Other topics range from "Vaults of Time" and "Niagara Fishfalls" to "Relativity and the Afterlife" and "Hallucinations and Illusions."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Pursuit are the exploration of the unexplained, the intersection of ancient myths and modern science, and theoretical physics. The editorial stance, as exemplified by Ivan Sanderson's piece, emphasizes critical thinking, the pursuit of knowledge beyond conventional scientific boundaries, and the importance of education in fostering understanding. The magazine consistently seeks to bridge the gap between the known and the unknown, presenting diverse perspectives on phenomena that challenge established paradigms.

This issue of Pursuit magazine, dated Second Quarter 1983, features a diverse range of articles exploring paranormal phenomena, extraterrestrial life, and unexplained events. The cover story, "Now You See It..." by Sarah Fitzjarrald, recounts a personal experience involving a mysterious mustache cup that disappeared and reappeared.

Extraterrestrial Law and Regulations

The issue delves into the legal and regulatory aspects of potential extraterrestrial contact. An article discusses the concept of "metalaw," proposing eleven rules for interacting with alien life, emphasizing principles like equality, self-determination, and avoiding harm. It also details NASA's regulations (Part 1211 of the Code of Federal Regulations) concerning quarantines for space missions returning from celestial bodies, outlining the authority to impose such measures and the penalties for violations. The potential application of U.S. federal and state laws to extraterrestrial visitors is also considered, alongside international legal questions regarding space law treaties.

Personal Accounts of the Paranormal

Sarah Fitzjarrald shares a peculiar family story about a mustache cup that vanished from her home in Arkansas and later reappeared in her sister Mary's home in Phoenix, Arizona. The cup's disappearance and reappearance, with no clear explanation, are presented as a baffling event. Fitzjarrald also touches upon her and her sister Mary's unusual closeness, which has led to some amateur telepathy experiments and Mary's claim of an out-of-body experience. The article also includes a story from a classmate who experienced an out-of-body event during surgery and later found her lost silver pocket knife in an old trunk, drawing a parallel to the mustache cup incident.

UFO Sightings and Alien Encounters

Several articles explore UFO sightings and encounters with alleged alien beings. Harry Lebelson's article, "More Clues in the Search for Ancient Aquanauts," continues a previous discussion on the possibility of prehistoric alien visitations, referencing cultures like the Dogon tribe and their myths of "Nommanes" or "Oannes." The article also touches upon the idea that reptilian aliens could develop superior brains, citing Gene Bylinsky's "Life in Darwin's Universe."

The "Early Patterson" encounter of October 17, 1973, is detailed, describing a UFO and a creature approximately 6'3" tall with fish-like features and a single large, glowing eye. Another account features Chuck Henderson's experience in June 1970, where he encountered a six-foot-tall humanoid creature with a large head and glowing red eyes.

The issue also examines the structural design of UFOs, noting the "honeycomb" pattern described by Patterson and Oscar Magocsi, and questions whether these sightings could be misinterpreted terrestrial phenomena or advanced alien technology. The article on page 7, accompanied by illustrations of a U.S. Navy F-14, draws a parallel between the honeycomb structure of UFOs and the materials used in advanced military aircraft, suggesting a possible connection or misidentification.

Niagara Fishfalls and Other Anomalies

Dwight Whalen's article, "Niagara Fishfalls," investigates the historical phenomenon of fish and frogs falling from the sky, particularly in the Niagara region. The article presents a chronology of reported fishfalls and frog falls dating back to 1819, including incidents in Buffalo, Stonebridge, Ontario, and Ithaca, New York. While some attribute these events to whirlwinds and waterspouts, the article raises questions for Forteans, such as why only specific species fall and why they often lack associated environmental debris. The phenomenon of fish falling near the Niagara Falls cataracts in 1939 and 1940 is highlighted as particularly significant.

Scientific and Biological Perspectives

The issue includes scientific perspectives on intelligence and evolution. Paleontologist Robert Long's discovery of three species of fossilized animal skeletons from the Triassic period, including the three-eyed Placerias, is discussed. Biologists' conjectures about the body shape of highly intelligent, land-dwelling life-forms are also presented, emphasizing the importance of a head with centralized sensory organs and a body with an anchoring framework, as reasoned by scientist Terence Dickinson.

Editorial and Administrative Notes

An "Important Notice!" section announces the move of the editorial office of Pursuit from its present location to Montclair, New Jersey, providing new mailing addresses for manuscripts and other correspondence. The issue also includes references and an appendix detailing NASA's regulations on extraterrestrial exposure.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Pursuit magazine revolve around the unexplained, the anomalous, and the potential for contact with non-human intelligence. The magazine appears to adopt a Forte an approach, presenting documented accounts of strange phenomena and encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond conventional scientific explanations. The editorial stance seems to be one of open-minded inquiry into UFOs, paranormal events, and historical anomalies, often drawing parallels between ancient myths, modern sightings, and scientific speculation.

This issue of Pursuit magazine, dated Second Quarter 1983, features a prominent cover story titled "The Ultimate Cover-Up" by Robert C. Girard. The magazine explores a range of topics including conspiracy theories, the paranormal, decision-making, scientific concepts like Relativity, and ancient practices like shamanism.

The Ultimate Cover-Up by Robert C. Girard

Girard's article posits that Ufology, as a field, has waned, but presents a new opportunity to study "The Age of Conspiracy." He argues that the focus should shift from minor conspiracies (like government cover-ups) to a "master conspiracy": the "Conspiracy to Keep Us Human." This conspiracy, he suggests, is non-human in origin and aims to keep humanity occupied and unaware of its true nature by manipulating our 3-dimensional environment. He uses the metaphor of a "silvered egg" to describe our limited perception, where we only see ourselves reflected back. The article introduces the concept of "Tulpas"—impulses or connections, both human-to-human and non-human—that maintain and reinforce this conspiracy. These Tulpas can introduce "mutations" into society, potentially explaining phenomena like Legionnaire's Disease or AIDS. The author criticizes the tendency of individuals to "share" their paranormal experiences, which he believes is a conditioned response that betrays supreme confidence and prevents deeper understanding, pushing them back to "Square 1."

An example of a strange phenomenon is cited from Niagara Falls, N.Y., in 1978, where fish rained down, suggesting a connection to the area's persistent unusual events.

The Psychic Consultant Aids Decision-Making in The Business World by Roderic Sorrell

Roderic Sorrell, a psychic consultant, discusses the two primary skills in decision-making: logical/extrapolative thinking and intuitive/lateral thinking. He notes that while the business world often favors logic, intuition is crucial for grasping the whole picture and arriving at satisfactory conclusions. Sorrell explains that the right hemisphere of the brain handles intuition, processing seemingly irrelevant data. He highlights the limitations of extrapolation, which cannot account for the unexpected. The article emphasizes the complementary nature of logical and intuitive thinking, likening it to two hands working together. Psychic consultants can provide this intuitive element, though they may face resistance due to "misoneism" (fear of the new). Examples are given of how psychic consultants, using methods like the I Ching, have provided valuable advice in business scenarios, such as evaluating partnerships and predicting business outcomes. The author stresses that this advice does not usurp the executive's decision-making role but serves as an additional tool.

Relativity and the Afterlife: Is There LIGHT After Death? by Arlan Keith Andrews, Sr.

Andrews explores a potential correlation between Einstein's Theory of Relativity and reported Near-Death Encounters (NDEs). He suggests that the mathematical description of the universe's curvature and the behavior of light might offer evidence for an afterlife. The article explains Relativity in simple terms, focusing on the constancy of light speed and the resulting effects on space and time. It then details the common features of NDEs, such as traveling through a tunnel toward a bright light, experiencing overwhelming contentment, and reviewing one's life. The author contrasts Dr. Elizabeth Kubler-Ross's findings with Dr. Carl Sagan's explanation of NDEs as a replay of the birth process. Andrews argues that the phenomena reported in NDEs, like the tunnel and light, are remarkably similar to the predicted effects of traveling near light speed, including time slowing down or appearing to run backward. He suggests that this correlation might point to an "Eternal Now" and a possible physical basis for eternal life, urging researchers in both mathematics and mysticism to compare their findings.

Hallucinations and Illusions by Sue Blackmore

Dr. Sue Blackmore, a parapsychologist, discusses hallucinations and illusions, noting their relevance to psychical research. She defines hallucination as an apparent perception without a physical object, while illusions involve mistaking one object for another. Blackmore explains that hallucinations can be perceived through any sense but focuses on vision. She distinguishes between true hallucinations (convincing the person they are real) and pseudo-hallucinations (where the person knows it's not real but the experience persists). Illusions are often caused by the brain's shortcuts in processing information, especially under poor viewing conditions or when the person is tired or stressed. The article notes that hallucinations can occur due to sleep deprivation, sensory deprivation, or certain drugs. It highlights common early-stage hallucinatory forms like spirals, tunnels, and lattices, and how colors can shift. The tunnel experience, often seen in hallucinations, is also a common feature of NDEs, leading Blackmore to question whether NDEs are purely hallucinatory or if some aspects point to life after death. She also discusses out-of-body experiences (OBEs) as altered states of consciousness potentially created by memory under hallucinatory conditions, suggesting that studying hallucinations can aid in understanding OBEs and other paranormal phenomena.

Second-Chance SITUations

This section presents a brief case history from Champaign, Illinois, where a young woman, believed dead from an overdose, revived on the autopsy table, surprising the medical and investigative personnel.

Shamanism by Michael Baran

Michael Baran defines shamanism as a primitive religion practiced by various groups worldwide, involving a priest or conjurer who communicates with the unseen world of gods, demons, and ancestral spirits. He notes the similarities across cultures suggest a common, ancient root-source, possibly dating back to the Paleolithic Age, as suggested by cave drawings. The article mentions Mercia Eliade's comprehensive treatise on the subject and discusses the "technique of ecstacy" used by shamans to achieve liaison with the spirit world, often through dreams or introductory training. Candidate shamans are sometimes selected for their predisposition to nervous afflictions. The article describes the shaman's role, the initiation process involving symbolic tortures and soul journeys to the "underworld," and the transformation into a respected figure within the tribe. It differentiates between "white" shamans who serve benevolent spirits and "black" shamans who descend to the underworld. The text also touches upon the historical practices of Shakers in the U.S. and Amerindian shamans.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Pursuit magazine consistently explores the boundaries between the known and the unknown, the scientific and the mystical. The articles collectively suggest that conventional explanations may be insufficient to account for certain phenomena, whether they be UFOs, paranormal experiences, or altered states of consciousness. There is a recurring theme of hidden knowledge and "cover-ups," whether by human or non-human forces, that obscure deeper truths. The magazine encourages readers to question assumptions, use both logical and intuitive faculties, and consider alternative interpretations of reality. The editorial stance appears to favor open-minded investigation into these complex and often controversial subjects, suggesting that a deeper understanding of these phenomena could lead to significant advancements in human knowledge and consciousness.

This issue of Pursuit (Second Quarter 1983, Volume 59) delves into a wide array of subjects, from ancient shamanistic practices and mysterious creatures to the scientific exploration of paranormal phenomena and the remarkable adaptations of animals. The magazine features articles by Ivan T. Sanderson, Jon Beckjord, Michael Baran, and Sabina W. Sanderson, among others, presenting a blend of anecdotal evidence, historical accounts, and speculative theories.

Shamanism and Ancient Beliefs

The issue begins by exploring the concept of the white shaman's celestial journey, often symbolized by a tent-pole or a bird, with the ascent focused on the polar region and the Pole Star, referred to as 'meru' or 'Mount Meru' in various cultures. It touches upon the idea of 'solitons'—microscopic energy fields—as a potential path to scientific evidence for a soul-entity, drawing parallels with the Earth's magnetic fields.

Case Histories: Shamanic Healing

Several case histories highlight the perceived efficacy of shamanic practices. One account from the *Journal of the American Medical Association* (1981) details a patient with medically confirmed end-stage kidney disease who was allegedly cured after a visit to a local shaman. Another report summarizes a 1936 *American Journal of Surgery* article by Dr. Harlow Brooks, M.D., describing the dramatic recovery of a young Navajo woman suffering from generalized tuberculosis following ministrations by a native healer.

A Revitalizing Force?

Michael Baran speculates on a possible 'biologically eutropic, pan-therapeutic, rejuvenative entity' existing in nature, potentially linked to subterranean energized regions. This concept is loosely connected to legends of subterranean realms like Shamballah and Agharti, where residents are said to enjoy exceptional longevity. The article also references an anecdote from Hassoldt Davis's *The Sorcerer's Village* about a painful hemi-paralysis experienced by a native porter, suggesting an occult mechanism beyond conventional medical understanding.

Cryptozoology and Unexplained Creatures

Traditions of Submen in Arctic and Subarctic North America

Ivan T. Sanderson contributes an article based on Harry Colp's book *The Strangest Story Ever Told*, discussing alleged incidents involving 'hairy, stinking humanoids' (ABSMs) in the Alaska Panhandle. He recounts a trapper's encounter with unusual bipedal/quadrupedal tracks and a vanished dog. The article also mentions reports from Minnesota concerning a 'human giant' and delves into the lore of 'Wendigos' or 'Wentigoes' among northern Amerinds, suggesting these legends may stem from observations of ABSM-type primitives.

Loch Ness Monster's Fiftieth Birthday

Joseph W. Zarzynski writes about the 50th anniversary of the modern Loch Ness Monster phenomenon, first reported on April 14, 1933. He notes the lack of any official observance and reflects on the enduring allure of the loch, mentioning various vessels used in searches, including the *Crusader*, *Hunter*, *Kelpie*, *New Atlantis*, *Viperfish*, and *Pisces*.

Habeas Corpus?

Jon Beckjord critiques the approach of 'cryptozoologists,' arguing that while creatures like the Loch Ness Monster, Bigfoot, and Yeti are frequently sighted (over 4,000 Bigfoot sightings alone), there is a lack of verifiable physical evidence such as dead specimens. He contrasts these cases with the discovery of the coelecanth and okapi, suggesting that cryptozoological subjects are 'anomalous animals' rather than simply undiscovered ones. Beckjord proposes using all available tools, including ESP and psychic help, and calls for a broader, less prejudiced scientific approach, defining cryptozoology as the search for undiscovered, unclassified, and anomalous creatures.

Scientific Speculation and Anomalous Phenomena

Hyperresonance

This section explores the theoretical connection between Einstein's time-relativity principle and 'hyperresonance' models, suggesting they might help understand paranormal phenomena like UFOs. It posits that subatomic dynamics and differential time-event horizons could explain the apparent speed of UFOs, opening a new understanding of time and quantum dynamics, contingent on the existence of such phenomena.

SITUations: Unexplained Events

This section reports on curious and unexplained events. It includes a description of Sardinia's Nuraghi towers, Bronze-Age structures whose purpose and construction remain a mystery, with theories ranging from security to religious assembly. It also covers 'Second Chances,' detailing incidents of apparent resurrections or miraculous recoveries, such as a Chinese woman revived from her coffin and an individual who survived a prolonged submersion in water. The section also touches upon the question of black panther sightings in Ohio, despite their official extinction in the state.

A Cat Called Calico

Sabina W. Sanderson recounts the story of her blind cat, Calico. After surviving a viral infection that affected her kittens, Calico became noticeably more solitary and nervous. Her blindness was diagnosed after she began navigating cautiously and making detours. Despite her condition, Calico demonstrated remarkable intelligence and adaptability, learning to use stairs, navigate her environment, and even developing a routine for outdoor excursions. The author reflects on Calico's resilience and contrasts her intelligence with that of another cat, Mope Jr.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the intersection of the unexplained, the paranormal, and the scientific. There's a recurring theme of challenging conventional explanations, whether in the context of shamanic healing, the existence of cryptids, or the nature of consciousness and time. The magazine appears to advocate for an open-minded approach to investigating phenomena that lie outside established scientific paradigms, encouraging the use of diverse methods and a willingness to consider unconventional theories. The editorial stance seems to favor the exploration of mysteries and the potential for new knowledge derived from anomalous events and beliefs.

Title: Pursuit
Issue: Second Quarter 1983
Publisher: Pursuit
Date: 1983

This issue of Pursuit magazine, a publication focused on unexplained phenomena, delves into a variety of intriguing topics, from ancient archaeological mysteries to modern-day UFO sightings and paranormal events.

Piecing-In the Puzzle of Poverty Point

The lead article explores the enigmatic Poverty Point site in Louisiana, a complex of large earthen mounds and concentric ridges built by unknown Bronze Age North American tribespeople. The site's scale is immense, with one mound standing 70 feet high and containing 35 times the volume of Egypt's Great Pyramid. While other large mound sites like Cahokia and Natchez have yielded human remains indicating long periods of occupation, Poverty Point has yielded only one human bone from its main mound, posing a significant puzzle for archaeologists. The concentric circles, discovered only in 1950 through aerial photography, are particularly mysterious. Evidence suggests occupation as early as 6000 B.C., with full-scale occupation between 1800 and 300 B.C., potentially by as many as 5,000 people. Excavations have uncovered 150,000 artifacts, including spear points, beads, and clay statues. The age of the ridges and mounds, built about 2,000 years ahead of similar formations elsewhere, is a key mystery. Dr. Goad, leading a three-year project, speculates that Poverty Point may have been a trading center, citing evidence of homes and artifacts made of stone from outside the area.

Missouri Spook Light

This section details the phenomenon known as the Hornet Spook Light, observed for over 80 years in rural Missouri. Despite studies by various organizations, including the National Geographic Society and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, no definitive explanation has been found. While some dismiss it as an optical illusion or reflection, others suggest possibilities like foxfire or atmospheric plasma. Dale Kaczmarek, president of the Ghost Research Society, led an investigation in May, noting the light's variable size, shape, brightness, color, distance, and movement, and describing it as appearing like a "supernova light or exploding star."

Poltergeist Profiles

This section provides a roundup of apparent poltergeist activity. It includes the story of a ghost at an Irish Castle on Chicago's South Side, which reportedly produced a vision of a little Irish girl and helped raise $150,000 for the castle's restoration. Strange happenings at Simpson College in Iowa are also mentioned, with speculation about a student's ghost or nocturnal intruders. Finally, it recounts incidents of flames leaping from electrical outlets and closets in a home in Wharncliffe, West Virginia, baffling fire officials.

Person to Person?

Scientists at Stanford University are attempting to make contact with extraterrestrial life using a multi-channel spectrum analyzer that can scan thousands of sounds simultaneously. The project aims to detect signals from stars within 1,000 light years of Earth, with a current budget of $1.5 million.

Loch Ness 'Monster's' 50th Birthday Is Quietly Unobserved

This brief piece notes the 50th anniversary of the Loch Ness Monster legend, referencing St. Columba's sighting in A.D. 565 and a wooden effigy used in the filming of "The Private Life of Sherlock Holmes" that sank in the loch.

Books Reviewed

PSI CAN BE A BUCKING BRONCO

This review discusses Dr. Berthold Eric Schwarz's trilogy on psychic phenomena, particularly his book "UFO-Dynamics: Psychiatric and Psychic Dimensions of the UFO Syndrome." Schwarz, a psychiatrist, examines UFO contactees and associates their experiences with telepathy, telekinesis, precognition, and other psychic phenomena. The review highlights Schwarz's assertion that "psi can be a bucking bronco" and that definitive laboratory tests for psi have yet to be devised. It also touches on the discrepancy between public interest in UFOs and scientific research, and the association of close encounters with various psychic phenomena.

THE CATALOGUE OF UFO PERIODICALS by Tom Lind

Reviewed by Robert Barrow, this entry describes Tom Lind's comprehensive bibliographic guide to UFO publications, covering over 1100 titles from around the world. The catalogue provides details on publication country, publisher, editor, and appearance frequency, and refines its listings by categorizing publications based on their primary focus.

INSIGHTS INTO PREHISTORY by Michael Baran

Reviewed by Jon Douglas Singer, this book is a sequel to Baran's "Atlantis Reconsidered." Singer critiques Baran's reliance on occult writings and his acceptance of theories like the Hollow Earth Theory. While acknowledging Baran's presentation of some evidence for Atlantis, Singer finds the work marred by outdated material and a lack of rigorous scientific support, suggesting that ancient civilizations likely existed but were not necessarily technological superpowers.

Letters to the Editors

This section features several letters from readers:

  • Tom Bearden comments on Daniel Eden's letter regarding scalar waves, asserting that the foundations of physics are in serious difficulty and that his approach to electromagnetics offers a deeper basis.
  • Daniel Eden corrects errors in his previous articles on "Higher Dimensions and the Barrier," clarifying terms related to tunnel effects and apparent mass versus acceleration.
  • Dennis W. Prater responds to a critique of his review of "Verdict on the Shroud," defending the authors' work and the interpretation of negative results.
  • Hillyer Senning offers a perspective on the shroud's image, suggesting that radiation from the human body behaves differently than light and that positive and negative films should be considered.
  • Michael Baran comments on a letter regarding the identification of "auras," expressing doubt about the method described without documentation.
  • T. B. Pawlicki discusses the prevailing social psychology in science, arguing that suppression of truth and the belief that solutions are superhumanly difficult hinder progress in fields like free energy.

The Notes of Charles Fort

This ongoing section, compiled by Carl J. Pabst, provides a detailed index of historical phenomena, primarily focusing on meteorological events, geological occurrences, and unusual sightings, cross-referenced with various publications and historical records. The entries for May and June 1830 include numerous reports of earthquakes, volcanic activity, meteor falls, and strange atmospheric phenomena from around the world.

The Sanderson Prescription

This concluding piece, attributed to the "Contents page," discusses the importance of taxonomy and classification in understanding unexplained phenomena. It advocates for a structured educational approach that integrates the "Three R's" with geography and specialized study, emphasizing the need for a systematic method to assimilate knowledge.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores topics on the fringes of conventional science and history, including archaeology, UFOs, paranormal phenomena, and ancient mysteries. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unexplained events, encouraging detailed reporting and discussion from various perspectives, while also engaging in critical review of books and theories within these fields. There is a clear interest in historical accounts and the challenges of scientific investigation into anomalous phenomena.

Title: THE SOCIETY FOR THE INVESTIGATION OF THE UNEXPLAINED
Issue: Vol. 1, No. 4
Date: September 1968
Publisher: The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained
Country: USA
Language: English
ISSN: 0033-4685

This document is the fourth issue of the publication "Pursuit," which serves as the chronicle for "The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained" (SITU). The publication details the origins and structure of the society, its governing board, and its scientific advisory board.

Origins of SITU/Pursuit

The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained (SITU) was established in 1965 by Ivan T. Sanderson, a zoologist, biologist, botanist, and geologist, along with other authors. Its purpose was to research and investigate paranormal phenomena, referred to as "disquieting mysteries of the natural world." To engage professionals and interested individuals, a newsletter was initiated, with the first issue appearing in May 1967. The response was sufficient to encourage the founders.

By March 1968, with Newsletter No. 2, the foundation's structure was expanded, and the organization was formally named The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained, with documents filed with the New Jersey Secretary of State. This name was prophetic, aligning with one of Ivan T. Sanderson's last books titled "Investigating the Unexplained," published in 1972 and dedicated to the Society.

In June 1968, another publication was released, and "newsletter" became a subtitle, with "Pursuit" displayed prominently for the first time. By September 1968, in Vol. 1, No. 4 (which also incorporated the fourth Society newsletter), the abbreviation SITU was formally adopted. This issue also introduced the Scientific Advisory Board, listing its members and their affiliations. Administrative matters were reduced to the last four pages of the twenty-page issue.

Content of Issue Vol. 1, No. 4 (September 1968)

This issue featured investigative reporting on several phenomena:

  • A "great armadillo": Described as being 6 feet long and 3 feet high, reportedly captured in Argentina.
  • Instantaneous transportation of objects: The phenomenon of moving solid objects from one place to another, or even through solids, was investigated.
  • University of Colorado UFO Project: The issue included coverage of the attack on the UFO Project led by Dr. Edward U. Condon.
  • Ringing rocks and stone spheres: Updated information on these geological anomalies was presented.

Thus, SITU was born, and Pursuit began its chronicle of the investigation into the unexplained.

Personal Sighting Report

The second page of the document details a personal sighting by R.C.W. (Robert C. Warth), who was on a boat. He described observing a V-shaped "shock wave" followed by individual dashes or light blue spots that appeared like a halogen lamp and trailed off into the darker blue of a tail.

  • Sequence of Objects: Within 10-15 seconds, a second blue blob of light appeared from the west. This sequence continued with at least a dozen more objects flying by over a period of 10-15 minutes.
  • Trajectory: The first object moved west to east directly over the bow. Subsequent objects passed overhead and then behind the boat, with the last one observed at approximately 45° above the horizon past the stern.
  • Object Characteristics: The objects traveled in clusters of 3 or 4, varying in size, suggesting different altitudes but traveling at the same speed and direction relative to each other.
  • Estimates: Due to the lack of a frame of reference, judging size, speed, or distance was difficult. Based on their appearance about 45° above the ocean's surface after the boat had traveled one nautical mile, the objects were estimated to be about a mile high.
  • Witness Credibility: Warren, who witnessed the event, had served nine years in the U.S. Air Force as an aircraft mechanic and senior photographer. He stated he could not identify the objects as any conventional aircraft he knew.
  • Regret: Warren expressed regret that he and Lou had not used the cameras they brought along to document the event, as they were overwhelmed by the sighting.

Call for Information

Readers with any other information that might corroborate or add details to the report, or provide evidence of related sightings, are encouraged to share it with the society.

Governing Board and Scientific Advisory Board

The issue lists the members of the Governing Board, with Robert C. Warth as President, Gregory Arend as Vice-President, and Nancy L. Warth as Secretary and Treasurer. The Trustees are also listed.

The Scientific Advisory Board comprises distinguished professionals from various academic and research institutions, including:

  • Dr. George A. Agogino: Anthropology, Eastern New Mexico University.
  • Dr. Carl H. Delacato: Mentalogy, The Institute for the Rehabilitation of the Brain Injured.
  • Dr. J. Allen Hynek: Astronomy, Northwestern University.
  • Dr. Martin Kruskal: Mathematics, Princeton University.
  • Dr. Samuel B. McDowell: General Biology, Rutgers the State University.
  • Dr. Vladimir Markotic: Ethnosociology and Ethnology, University of Alberta.
  • Dr. John R. Napier: Physical Anthropology, University of London.
  • Dr. Michael A. Persinger: Psychology, Laurentian University.
  • Dr. Frank B. Salisbury: Plant Physiology, Utah State University.
  • Dr. Berthold Eric Schwarz: Mental Sciences, National Institute for Rehabilitation Engineering.
  • Dr. Roger W. Wescott: Cultural Anthropology and Linguistics, Drew University.
  • Dr. A. Joseph Wraight: Geography and Oceanography, U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey.
  • Dr. Robert K. Zuck: Botany, Drew University.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of unexplained aerial phenomena (UFOs), unusual biological and physical anomalies, and the scientific approach to studying such mysteries. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry and the collection of evidence, encouraging professionals and the public alike to contribute to the understanding of these phenomena. The publication aims to provide a platform for reporting and analyzing events that fall outside conventional scientific explanation.