Skywatch - No 22

Magazine Overview

Title: SKYWATCH
Issue Date: November/December 1976 - January/1977 (Issue No. 22)
Publisher: Manchester Aerial Phenomena Investigation Team
Country: England
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Editorial and Publication Details

SKYWATCH is described as an informal publication devoted to UFOlogy and related subjects, published by the Manchester Aerial Phenomena Investigation Team at regular intervals. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily shared by the Group or Editor. Items included in SKYWATCH may be reproduced in full or part, with a request for copies of journals or cuttings to be sent to the Editorial Address.

The editorial address is provided as: 92, Hillcrest Road, Offerton, Stockport, Cheshire, SK2 5SE, England. The telephone number is 061 - 483 - 4210.

Letters Section

Letter from D. Leddy, Glossop, Cheshire

D. Leddy writes to express dissatisfaction with a BBC2 program titled 'The Case of the Bermuda Triangle,' which he found to be 'rubbish' for attributing mysteries to natural causes. He questions why UFO sightings are always dismissed as crank cases or hoaxes, suggesting that the general public is increasingly believing in UFOs. He hopes someone will eventually provide an unexplainable photograph to UFO investigation teams rather than to authorities.

Letter from Geoff Falla, Guernsey (Guernwey UFO Research Group)

Geoff Falla thanks Mr. Rees for a copy of SKYWATCH, finding it interesting, particularly the report on the UFO Congress in Poitiers, France. He mentions a newsclipping about an object seen over Manchester on June 6th, which was identified as a large meteor by some, and as an 'extraordinary bright planet' by experts at Manchester Airport. Falla clarifies that their group does not have its own publication but had plans for one that are now uncertain. He states he cannot attend the BUFORA Conference in Birmingham but attended the Stoke-on-Trent Conference the previous year. He has been working on BUFORA's vehicle interference project, which will be delayed, but Tony Pace and Charles Lockwood will present a progress report.

Letter from Karen M Linnerbajie, Secretary, Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFÚI), Denmark

Karen M. Linnerbajie responds to inquiries, noting that UFO subjects are more discussed in Denmark's provincial press than metropolitan. She mentions limited TV and radio coverage. Her interest in UFOs began many years ago, stemming from an interest in ancient history, archaeology, and astronomy. Initially considering UFOs a past phenomenon, she realized 15 years ago that the problem is 'still alive' and global. Since 1968, she has subscribed to UFO-NYT, assisted a local SUFOI investigator, and now runs a secretariat, expressing increased fascination with the UFO problem.

Articles and Discussions

Letter from Paul Jackson, Tasmanian UFO Investigation Centre (TUFOIC), Tasmania

Paul Jackson, involved with TUFOIC since October 1971, reflects on his five years of involvement. He feels his views are becoming more conservative and has little faith in many contactee cases. He advocates for moving away from the E.T.H. (Extraterrestrial Hypothesis) towards objective research, noting that UFOlogists can be biased, which distorts truth. He expresses uncertainty about the ultimate truth in UFOLOGY but emphasizes the importance of continued investigation.

'U.F.O'S Yes or No?' by R. Markwick

R. Markwick, Technical Adviser, Lecturer, and UFO Investigator, argues that the existence of UFOs is a fact that cannot be disputed. He states that scientists, the military, and others have, after examining reports, concluded that some objects are indeed unidentified flying objects. Markwick poses fundamental questions: what are they, where do they come from, and why? He suggests that if UFOs are natural phenomena, they are intelligently controlled, capable of outmaneuvering aircraft and defying natural elements. He questions how natural phenomena can form various patterns or possess features like portholes emitting light, and notes their elusiveness and 'camouflage' methods. He posits that their non-conformity to known scientific laws might explain scientific non-involvement. Markwick criticizes past scientific explanations for UFOs, such as 'light reflections,' 'figments of the imagination,' 'planet Venus,' 'weather/temperature inversions,' 'meteorites,' 'space-junk,' 'meteorological balloons,' 'noctilucent cloud,' 'fluorescence,' 'airglow,' 'sundogs,' 'moondogs,' 'lenticular cloud,' 'swamp gas,' 'hallucinations,' 'power line corona,' 'barium clouds,' 'bollides,' 'satellites,' and the common dismissal of witnesses as 'nut-cases.'

Markwick suggests that 20th-century science should be capable of providing intelligent answers, including biological and chemical analysis of landing sites, soil aversion to water, and radioactive readings. He believes that past generations were perhaps more enlightened, despite misidentifying entities. He observes an increasing acceptance by scientists of 'intelligently controlled alien craft' appearing and disappearing. He notes that scientists are now admitting to unknown objects they cannot account for, calling it a 'start.' He deduces that this partial realization suggests UFO observers might not be 'nut cases.' Markwick compares some scientists to leaders of the Church, being 'out of touch with the world,' and suggests that an open mind could lead to faster, cheaper discoveries. He quotes Arthur C. Clarke: "When a distinguished but elderly scientist states that something is possible, he is almost certainly right. When he states something is impossible, he is very probably wrong."

He observes that the general public is becoming harder to convince that UFOs are merely meteorites or Venus, as more UFOs appear annually. He predicts that soon, the entire population will have seen a UFO. Markwick criticizes explanations like 'corona' (plasma balls of light near power lines) or 'weather balloons,' questioning how these phenomena can occur far from power lines or be identified as weather balloons. He notes that explanations depend on the field of study, leading to diverse and sometimes absurd conclusions, such as UFOs being 'flying elephants.' He concludes that if experts disagree, someone must be wrong, and the 'establishment' has a history of being wrong on important issues, sometimes hiding the truth.

Markwick states that ghost phenomena, once dismissed, are now accepted. He notes that ball lightning, previously called 'hallucinatory,' is now given more credit by scientists. He describes these plasma balls of light, which can follow people or motorists, as performing feats beyond known science and being long-lived. He finds it 'nice' that scientists now consider this phenomenon respectable. However, he notes that these plasma blobs, varying in size from 6.5mm to 25.5cm (and possibly up to 45 ft), do not conform to known science. Their strange variations suggest they are tuned to investigate specific things. Scientists have produced this plasma but cannot control it, with one experiment resulting in the scientist's death. Markwick suspects these plasmas are extra-terrestrial probes, possibly tuned to specific human brain rhythms (alpha, beta, delta, theta). He asserts that these plasmas possess high energy content and can achieve energy transfer to zero. He suggests that beings can modify Einstein's energy/mass conversion (E=mc²). He emphasizes the need for scientific investigation to understand such transfers, even if they appear as ghost-type phenomena. He advocates for planetary surveillance to automatically trigger devices for such events. He criticizes scientists for lacking curiosity and relying on faith in pre-conceived notions, comparing them to the religious who require 'broad shoulders.' He concludes by wondering how primitive forefathers acquired 'advanced information' that scientists are only recently realizing.

This article is continued in the next issue of SKYWATCH.

PROJECT URD (UFO REPORTING AND DATASYSTEM)

This section presents Project URD, a system designed to contribute to the identification of UFO phenomena. UFOs are defined as 'New Empirical Observations' that have been observed globally, with movements and behavior suggesting advanced technology. While many UFO organizations exist, some are highly subjective, interpreting phenomena philosophically or religiously, believing UFOs are crafts from other planets conveying messages. More scientific organizations are realizing the need for cooperation, common goals, and serious research projects to gain intelligible knowledge and identify UFOs.

Subjective groups have sometimes caused ridicule, discouraging witnesses. Scientists and authorities have been hesitant to engage in UFO research due to controversy. Project URD aims to study UFO phenomena scientifically using a computer-based report and registering system. It is considered the only way to reach an 'answer.' The project is the result of an altruistic effort, involving approximately 1200 man-hours and significant funding, with participation from Swedish UFO groups and contributions from scientists and specialists.

The main features of the URD system include:
1. Training of FIELD INVESTIGATORS to report UFO observations using URD forms.
2. Field investigators are directed by a watch group.
3. Filled URD forms are coded and entered into a computer data base.
4. Statistical and other information can be derived from the computer once a sufficient number of reports are collected.

The system is ready for use, with centers being organized to receive primary reports. The response from scientists and authorities has been generally positive. The work aims to support pure research, free from political, religious, or commercial influence.

Future Development: The project seeks to inform UFO-interested individuals, encourage participation as field investigators, and invite organizations with similar goals to join. International cooperation is an ambition, with interest shown from Scandinavian countries, USA, and Australia.

• Important Features of URD:
• Critical methods for investigation and analysis of observed phenomena.
• Careful structurization of observation data for rational collation.
• Data for scientific analysis, statistics, and analyses will be available for researchers.
• Ideological independence: cooperation is restricted to scientific collection, interpretation, and analysis.
• Anonymity of the observer is guaranteed; field investigators must sign an obligation of secrecy.

Continuous information about the URD project will be issued through the UFO-magazine GICOFF-INFORMATION (Gothenburg, Sweden).

Contributors mentioned: Ken Stanley (FAPUFORG).

PARAPSYCHOLOGY......A COMMUNICATION

This section features a communication by the Independent Direct Voice, discussing spacecraft, life on planets, occupation on planets, and the influence of the moon and stars. The dialogue is between 'Sitter' and 'Frederick, a Musician.'

Planets: Frederick explains that space is limitless and that astronomers can measure distances. He believes there is life on certain planets, describing these beings as having figures and brains, similar to humans, and that they are trying to make contact with Earth. He contrasts human life, subject to ignorance, foolishness, illness, pain, and selfishness, with life on other planets, which he implies is more advanced and less burdened by earthly conditions. He suggests that these beings are more able to make contact in a solidified way and that 'time' is understood differently by them.

Occupation on the Planets: Frederick states that life on these planets is much like human life, with higher aspirations leading to a high standard of living. They are not concerned with things humans consider essential.

Light and darkness on the Planets: Frederick states there is no darkness, only light, color, and beauty. He clarifies that while they are subject to the sun and moon, they do not experience darkness as humans do.

Planets affected by Moon and Stars: Frederick confirms that planets are subject to the sun, stars, and moon, similar to Earth, and that these celestial bodies influence people significantly.

SIGHTING SECTION

Date: 20th June, 1974
Time: 4:30 a.m.
Location: Penkridge, Staffordshire, England
Witness: Mr. J. Allen, aged 55 (British Rail Trackman)

Mr. Allen reported seeing a cigar-shaped object moving slowly out of one cloud and heading for another. The object had a blunt end and a round end, was dark blue, and estimated to be 30 feet in size. He watched it for one to two minutes before it quickened and disappeared. The weather was good with few clouds, and it was just breaking dawn. The object did not rotate, and its speed was slow. Mr. Allen noted that his sighting was similar to a case reported in a previous issue of SKYWATCH (No. 20) by Mr. R. Simpson of Bramhall, Cheshire, and expressed frustration that such reports are not taken seriously. He believes people are afraid to report unusual sightings for fear of ridicule and questions when facts will be accepted.

Further investigations into this case will be printed in the next issue.

THE INVADERS

This section discusses the TV series "The Invaders" and its perceived realism. Tony Kimery's article from the American magazine Outermost is referenced. The text suggests that the series was based on actual events and that several people involved with the show were engaged in 'deep' saucer work. It claims that these individuals, including actor Roy Thinnes (who played David Vincent), were threatened by 'men in black.' Thinnes is quoted as saying, "I have no comment other than the fact that there is more truth behind the TV plots than most people realise." The article alleges that Thinnes mysteriously disappeared for two weeks after marrying, acted strangely upon his return, and later resigned, leading to the show's cancellation under the guise of poor viewer ratings, which the author disputes. Thinnes reportedly had a personal experience in the Arizona desert where his car broke down, and he observed a large circular object moving at incredible speed, making right-angled turns before disappearing. This experience motivated him to play the role of David Vincent. The author asserts that the show was very close to the truth of current UFO field events and that strict orders prevented re-runs, implying someone wanted to suppress the public from seeing it.

Other Publications

FORESIGHT

FORESIGHT is described as a bi-monthly magazine concerned with the spiritual aspect of man's being, covering Mysticism, Philosophy, Psychic Development, UFOs, and World events. Single copies cost 15p plus postage, and subscriptions are 50p plus postage. It is published by the FORESIGHT ORGANISATION, 29, Beaufort Avenue, Hodge Hill, Birmingham, B34 6AD, England.

MOON MYSTERIES by Dan Goring (EUFOSG)

This article questions whether the Moon is a dead, uninteresting world. It notes that over the years, incredible and inexplicable facts have emerged. Scientists wondered about the Moon's materials, whether spacecraft would sink into the dust, and if there was water. While soil samples brought back by the twelve men who have trod the Moon's surface proved no microscopic life, the article presents an undocumented (and unconfirmed by NASA) dialogue from July 1969 involving Apollo 11 astronauts Neil Armstrong and Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin at Tranquillity Base. Armstrong excitedly asks, "What was it? That's all I want to know!" Mission Control Houston inquires about a malfunction.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SKYWATCH revolve around UFO sightings, investigations, and the scientific versus subjective approaches to understanding these phenomena. There is a consistent emphasis on witness testimony and the challenges faced by those who report sightings, often being dismissed or ridiculed. The magazine appears to advocate for more objective, scientific research into UFOs, as exemplified by the URD project, while also presenting more speculative or philosophical discussions, such as the communication about life on other planets. The editorial stance, as indicated by the disclaimer, is to present a platform for diverse views within the UFOlogy community without necessarily endorsing them.

This issue of SKYWATCH, dated December 1976, is the fourth volume and nineteenth issue, published by MAPIT. It focuses on UFO phenomena, particularly concerning alleged sightings on the Moon and a significant wave of UFO reports in Britain during 1967. The magazine presents a mix of anecdotal evidence, scientific speculation, and historical accounts.

UFOs on the Moon

The issue opens with a striking alleged quote from Neil Armstrong, describing "huge" and "enormous" spacecraft on the Moon watching the Apollo 11 astronauts. It is claimed that this part of the conversation was censored from the official release. The article suggests that UFOs have been seen and photographed by many American and Russian astronauts. Photographs extracted from a 16mm documentary film of the Apollo 11 mission reportedly show double-imaged, fuzzy, snowman-shaped objects visible during lunar orbit. Similar UFOs were also captured on film by Gemini II astronaut Charles Conrad over the Indian Ocean. The article mentions that NASA allegedly possesses more film of alien craft on the Moon, citing aerospace scientist Dr. G. Henderson.

Historical Lunar Anomalies and Theories

Looking back through history, the magazine notes that strange phenomena on or near the Moon have been reported for centuries. The earliest documented report dates to 1540, with another in 1587, both visible to the naked eye. These events were described as brilliant 'stars' or 'flames'. In 1778, Spanish Admiral de Ulloa reported seeing the Sun shining through a hole in the Moon, interpreted as an extremely bright light. The issue also presents a recent theory by two Soviet scientists proposing that the Moon is an artificial satellite, possibly maneuvered into Earth orbit by alien intelligences. This theory is linked to I. Velikovsky's work "Earth in Upheaval," which discusses evidence of world flooding potentially caused by the Moon's introduction into Earth's vicinity. Further supporting this idea, information from Lunar seismographs suggests the Moon could be partly hollow, raising speculation about an inhabited interior, reminiscent of H.G. Wells' science fiction.

Lunar Surface Discoveries

Photographs from the artificial satellite Lunar Orbiter 2 in 1966 revealed peculiar structures on the Moon's surface, known as "The Blair Cuspids," located in the Sea of Tranquillity. These are described as a close-knit formation of cone-shaped spires arranged in precise geometrical patterns, including equilateral, isosceles, and right-angle triangles. The arrangement of some of these spires is said to mirror the arrangement of the Great Pyramids of Giza. West of the Blair Cuspids, the remains of a rectangular excavation with perfect 90-degree corners are noted, indicating great age. The presence of domes, raised structures up to 200m in diameter, is also mentioned, with reports of them increasing and even moving.

Lunar soil and rocks brought back by Apollo astronauts contain further mysteries, including high concentrations of Titanium and other rare elements. The ages of these rocks and soil contrast sharply with Earth's, with some dating to before the accepted age of the Solar System. The article concludes that despite the Moon posing more questions than answers, astronauts were sent there to do the opposite.

LANTERN and SKYWATCH Membership

A section introduces LANTERN, the quarterly journal of the Borderline Science Investigation Group, which covers a diverse range of unexplained phenomena. The annual subscription is 75p. A message to SKYWATCH members reflects on the past year's achievements, including publicity campaigns that increased awareness and led to new members. It notes that sightings have been thin but emphasizes the need for reader contributions to improve the content of SKYWATCH. An informal members' meeting is planned for the New Year.

Newsclipping Section

This section presents several brief news items:

• UFO at KauKau May Have Had Feathers (May 24, 1976, New Zealand): Post Office workers reported a UFO, but a local resident suggested it was a flock of birds.
• A Space Invader (September 12, 1976, Sunday People, UK): Police in Rome were investigating a report of a "creature from outer space" photographed by UFO spotters, described as a monkey-like being in a space suit.
• Near Miss for Earth (November 2, 1976, Manchester Evening News, UK): An asteroid had a near-miss with Earth, coming within 750,000 miles, posing a potential catastrophe.

The British UFO Wave of 1967

This article analyzes the significant UFO wave in Britain during 1967. Studies indicate that countries experience varying levels of sightings, and 1967 was Britain's turn. The wave became apparent in the summer and peaked in late October. An analysis of over 150 newspaper reports revealed that while large counties like Lancashire and Yorkshire produced sightings in line with expectations, counties with lower populations and densities produced a higher-than-expected level of reports. This suggested an inverse relationship between population density and UFO sighting rates. Major cities were conspicuously absent from sighting locations.

The article details several apparent alignments of sighting locations, including:
1. Heysham, Lancashire to Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire (159º true)
2. Boscastle, Cornwall to Clacton on Sea, Essex (73º true)
3. St. Germans, Cornwall to Dungeness, Kent (81º true)

A total of 35 reports were recorded within one mile of these alignments, and 51 reports (almost one-third of total sightings) were within three miles. The article poses whether this pattern continues in more recent sightings.

• Several vehicle interference cases were recorded during the 1967 wave:
• October 26th, Hook, Hampshire: A van driver reported a dark object shaped like a squat ice-cream cone with a rim hovering silently after his vehicle's electrical system failed.
• Early hours of November 5th, near Fordingbridge, Hampshire: A lorry driver experienced sudden failure of his lights and radio while a glowing green egg-shaped object with a whitish dome hovered low over the roadway.

The most memorable sightings of 1967 were the "flying cross" reports, numbering around thirty over a six-week period. These were described as orange or fiery, cross-shaped objects maneuvering silently. One such report came from Alderney on November 16th, describing a cross-shaped object with unsteady lower arm that moved away swiftly.

A Local Researcher's Perspective

A local UFO researcher discusses the motivation behind UFO study, categorizing people into "Cultists" and "Scientists." The researcher expresses skepticism towards those who claim "scientific" status without adhering to scientific methodology, emphasizing an objective approach focused on establishing facts. The researcher believes that over-publicity of the subject can lead to spurious data and encourages a balanced perspective, avoiding hasty conclusions or calls to arms.

"Individual Crowds" by Tim Evans (RIGAP)

Tim Evans of RIGAP questions whether the pursuit of UFO knowledge is a waste of time and advocates for a more objective approach to understanding UFOs. He criticizes the tendency for "UFO-Spotters" to remain so, asserting that no one has the authority to dictate others' pursuits. Evans argues against dictatorship and "nationalisation" in Ufology, favoring individualism but stressing the need for co-operation and communication between individuals and groups. He points to NUFON as an example of successful co-operation. Evans criticizes political extremists who disrupt diversification and cooperation, urging against hiding in discrete groups. He advocates for unity to gain recognition and suggests that while some individuals are content with personal research, the "madding crowd" desires more knowledge but lacks the time or ability to pursue it individually. He questions whether these individuals should be ignored or condemned.

Essex UFO Study Group

Formed in 1970, the Essex UFO Study Group produces a bi-monthly journal featuring UFO sightings, articles, and group activities. A 90-gram package costs 25p plus postage.

Observations from BUFORA Secretary for 1976

Betty Wood, Hon. Secretary of BUFORA (British Unidentified Flying Object Research Association), provides personal observations for 1976. She notes that UFO activity in Britain is low, but the world-wide picture remains lively, with the mystery deepening. She expresses a belief that the presumed intelligences behind UFO phenomena possess mental and physical powers beyond current grasp. She cautions against labeling phenomena as 'supernatural' or 'unnatural' simply due to a lack of understanding. Wood suggests that scientific research in fields like physics, psychology, and parapsychology may offer clues. She highlights the potential for amplification of abilities like telepathy and telekinesis, even suggesting the possibility of such amplified powers being unleashed in a nuclear power station. Wood acknowledges that while some UFO visitations may be frightening or hostile, intentional damage appears minimal, and witness interpretations can be skewed by fear. She agrees that a percentage of 'unfriendly' visitations exist but believes there is a balancing factor of neutral or helpful visitors who might be influencing human evolution through subtle means. She emphasizes that humanity has the free choice to make its own decisions and that the desire for peace is steadily overcoming unruly elements. Comparing human actions in exploring unknown territories to potential alien visitor intentions, she notes humanity's own questionable record. She warns against succumbing to hysterical reactions of either indiscriminate adoration or sullen hostility towards visitors, suggesting they may be 'different' rather than inherently superior.

Wood concludes by urging UFO researchers to maintain a sense of proportion and alertness, refusing hasty conclusions or calls to arms. She advocates for a united front among researchers, finding the internal arguments over trivialities comical. She states that BUFORA endeavors to maintain a scientific level of research but faces difficulties due to economic climate, necessitating cuts in their journal. Despite these challenges, she expresses gratitude to members for their loyal support and urges tolerant co-operation for the coming year. She extends Christmas and New Year wishes for successful UFO-hunting.

SKYWATCH Back Issues

Information is provided on purchasing back issues of SKYWATCH for 20p each.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the possibility of UFOs on the Moon, the potential artificiality of the Moon, historical UFO sightings, and the analysis of UFO waves, particularly the 1967 British wave. The magazine adopts a stance that encourages scientific inquiry and objective research while acknowledging the mysterious nature of UFO phenomena. It warns against sensationalism, cult formations, and hasty conclusions, advocating for a balanced and unified approach among researchers. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, grounded in scientific principles where possible, but willing to explore speculative theories and historical accounts.