Skywatch - No 23

Magazine Overview

SKYWATCH is an informal publication devoted to UFOlogy and related subjects, published by the Manchester Aerial Phenomena Investigation Team (MAPIT). This issue, No. 23, covers March-April 1977. Views expressed by contributors are not necessarily shared by the group or editor. Items may be reproduced in full or part, with credit appreciated.

Editorial Information

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

Letters and Contributions

Letter from John Copsey, Secretary, Dereham UFO Study Group, Norfolk:

Copsey thanks the editor for SKYWATCH and mentions that the Dereham UFO Study Group will place an advert for MAPIT in their next publication, 'Skylook'. They have not published since November and are compiling a catalogue of UFO reports from East Anglia, with help from UK and BUFORA. He wishes the group luck for 1977.

Article: UFO's - Yes or NO? by R.MARKWICK, Technical Advisor, Lecturer and UFO Investigator:

This article, continued from the previous issue, discusses the scientific community's reluctance to engage with UFO phenomena. R.MARKWICK argues that scientists often dismiss phenomena that challenge their established views, citing Uri Geller as an example of someone who makes sophisticated scientific equipment appear unreliable. He suggests that scientists' reservations stem from a fear of being tricked or falling victim to hoaxes, similar to past instances. MARKWICK criticizes scientists for being unwilling to face serious challenges and for sometimes making appalling conclusions based on insufficient evidence. He notes that while scientific statements proven inaccurate did not lead to disrepute for science, 'open-minded' thinkers who consider alternatives are sometimes frowned upon. The author posits that scientists have historically been poor guessers. He contrasts this with the public's original brainwashing with dismissive answers like 'balderdash, rubbish, and utter bilge' regarding UFOs. Despite this, self-respecting Ufologists have persevered. The article also touches upon historical skepticism towards space travel, referencing the Astronomer Royal's dismissal of it as 'utter bilge' before Sputnik. MARKWICK points out scientific inaccuracies regarding Venus and atmospheric pollution, leading to conflicting predictions about climate change. He questions how scientists can be trusted with dangerous experiments if they err on lesser issues. He explains that science often accepts non-proven facts, particularly in nuclear physics, by predicting existence through associated effects. He suggests a similar approach for UFOs, arguing that while neutrinos are unseen, UFOs are visible, akin to seeing the sun. He draws a parallel with the acceptance of electricity, which is not fully understood but used for research. MARKWICK also discusses the scientific acceptance of acupuncture, which works despite not being fully understood psychologically. He highlights the conceit of some scientists who claim that other scholarly groups disagree but top scientists do not. He uses the example of two scientists with diametrically opposed beliefs about God to illustrate how even scientists may rely on 'feelings' or beliefs without sufficient evidence, which can lead to errors. He agrees with the saying that 'Science does not explain anything, it only describes,' but questions the 'describing' part. He urges those who dismiss UFOs as temperature inversions or Venus to first study the characteristics and capabilities of such phenomena and compare them to actual occurrences.

Further points from R.MARKWICK's article:

MARKWICK criticizes astronomers for their potential to dismiss UFOs as meteorites or Venus without considering their unusual characteristics, such as nullifying ignition systems or zooming off into space. He notes that the Air Ministry and civilian aircraft do not hover for extended periods. He mentions the USAF's history of providing ridiculous answers to the public regarding UFOs, leading some to believe UFOs do not exist, but rather the USAF does not. He states that all nations seem burdened with unknowledgeable people. He recounts a case from about five years prior in Reading, Berkshire, where a low-flying UFO was picked up by London Airport Radar and classified as 'solid hardware'. Despite its low-level flight, no sound was heard. The observation lasted six hours, ample time for investigation. Police received thousands of calls, and the press covered the case extensively. Authorities claimed ignorance, which MARKWICK contrasts with officials thanking their lucky stars. He questions the safety against potential aggressors if such objects can 'creep in' undetected for hours. He concludes that many in high positions lack the courage of their convictions regarding UFO sightings, leading to information being hidden.

Newsclipping Section:

• REVEILLE, November 12th, 1976: A 'Fireball' incident in Sweden where a family witnessed a shining white ball that exploded, causing minor injuries and a feeling of lameness. Fireballs are usually seen during thunderstorms and are theorized to be caused by abnormal air or gas behavior. Neil Charman is collecting eyewitness accounts.
• THE SUN, November 19th, 1976: A report from Winchester, Hants, about a pink-eyed creature from a cigar-shaped spaceship that approached a car, causing it to shudder. Mrs. Joyce Bowles and Ted Pratt described the creature's piercing pink eyes and a whistling noise.
• SUNDAY MIRROR, November 28th, 1976: The International Unidentified Flying Objects Research Council believes that Liverpool has 'faithful faraway fans' from outer space, suggesting UFOs might study football matches. Chairman Alan Walsh noted a large number of sightings in the Anfield district, especially on match days.
• THE SUN, November 30th, 1976: A mysterious Unidentified Flying Object, described as a 'bright spinning star', was reported speeding across the sky at Kingsdown, Deal, Kent.
• DAILY MIRROR, December 13th, 1976: An Unidentified Flying Object that landed in a garden in Derbyshire was identified as a 'Weather Plane'.
• THE SUN, December 18th, 1976: An Unidentified Flying Object resembling a 'Flying V Grapefruit' was spotted over North Staffordshire by a pilot and an AA patrolman.
• THE SUN, January 4th, 1977: UFO expert Tony Pace of the British Unidentified Flying Object Research Association claims aliens visit Earth every ten years, with a significant increase in sightings in North Staffordshire. He notes that sightings usually occur within two months of Christmas. He predicts that if visits can be predicted, people will take UFOlogists seriously.
• DAILY MAIL, February 7th, 1977: Four police officers in Stafford saw a bright, fast-moving Unidentified Flying Object that vanished over the horizon. One officer, previously a disbeliever, stated, 'now I'm not certain'.
• DAILY MIRROR, February 8th, 1977: Fourteen children at a junior school in Broad Haven, West Wales, fled in terror from a 45ft-long, cigar-shaped object. Drawings of the object are to be sent to education chiefs.
• DAILY MIRROR, February 17th, 1977: Nine children and their teacher in Rhosybol, Anglesey, spotted a mysterious airborne 'Spaceship' with a black dome on top, described as flying very high and fast.
• MANCHESTER EVENING NEWS, February 19th, 1977: A Colombian airline pilot claims to have seen a brightly lit Unidentified Flying Object three times larger than an airliner, travelling at speeds over 28,000 mph.
• SUNDAY MIRROR, February 20th, 1977: UFOs have reportedly been spotted over a giant sewage works being built at Telford, Shropshire, with twenty sightings reported, including by Council workers. Terry Billington described seeing a metallic saucer-shaped disc hovering.

Group News:

The group meeting on January 20th was attended by only one person due to various commitments. The evening involved consuming 15 cups of coffee and 30 sausage rolls. A mid-summer meeting is planned. The Wirral UFO Society's publication 'Skylink' was received, featuring a write-up of the BUFORA conference. The 'UFO Appearance, Recognition and Identification Test Procedure' by Richard F.Haines Ph.D. is recommended for its 14 pages and over 100 UFO shapes. There has been a small increase in membership, and members are encouraged to get friends interested.

Youngest Contributors:

Stephen and John Bellis, aged eleven, are highlighted as the youngest contributors to SKYWATCH.

Call for Submissions:

Readers are asked to send in any missed newsclippings, sightings, or articles. They are also encouraged to write reviews of UFO books.

William Shatner on UFOs

An article by William Shatner, reprinted from STAG Newsletter No. 20, expresses his belief in UFOs. He dismisses official explanations like hot-air balloons or Venus. Shatner states that there is too much evidence over the years to doubt the existence of UFOs, seen by too many people in too many places. While he believes in UFOs, he admits to not understanding their purpose or why they haven't made large-scale contact with governments. He mentions instances of 'kidnappings' but no broader contact. Shatner spoke to many science fiction writers and technical advisors for 'Star Trek', who were almost universally convinced that UFOs existed and originated from outer space with intelligent life forms. He recounts one writer's claim of seeing a huge, cigar-shaped object. Shatner concludes that the evidence is overwhelming, leaving no doubt in his mind about their existence, though he has never seen one personally.

Sighting Section

• Penkridge, Staffordshire (June 1974): A previously featured UFO sighting for which no further information is available.
• Crewe (January 2nd): A State-enrolled Nurse, Mr. David Moses, reported a glowing object in the sky at 4.40 p.m. The object was visible for 10-15 seconds before disappearing. Mr. Moses stated it was not an aircraft and too high to be a building.
• Lancashire Hill (February 19th, 1977): Mrs. Ann Howe, a pensioner, saw a 'spinning light' disappear across the skyline from her 19th-floor flat window around 4.30 a.m. She described it as a bright white light rotating and travelling thousands of miles an hour, and is convinced it was not an aircraft.

Survey on UFO Beliefs and Opinions

MAPIT Member D.J. Parry is conducting a survey on UFO beliefs and opinions. Readers are asked to answer questions on the best UFO authors, periodicals, books, theories, significant cases, reactions to occupants, and UFO organizations. They are also asked to provide personal information such as city, age, sex, and occupation. Results will be shared when available.

Wanting to Know

A MAPIT member expresses nervousness about sharing their feelings on UFOlogy, anticipating a critical approach. Having been active in UFOlogy for five years, focusing on landing aspects, they joined MAPIT in 1976 and became more involved, thanks to editor David Rees. They had previously worked with groups like NUFON and publications like 'Flying Saucer Review' and 'Contact'. The member proposed a 'Super Conference' to bring together UFO groups to advance the study of UFOs. However, they encountered significant opposition from NUFON and have not yet received feedback from their own group. They emphasize that any moves should HELP, not hinder, UFO research. The member feels that UFO research is stagnating, returning to a situation of continuous report filing without serious study. They seek readers' views on the subject, believing that if UFOlogy is not progressing, reader interest will save it.

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.

A MAPIT Member Writes

Roy Simpson writes about his experiences since arriving in Anglia. As a bread-baker in Ipswich, his work involves extensive travel. He reports seeing 'brilliant flashes' across the horizon and many times behind trees. He mentions that colleagues dismiss these as normal. Simpson recounts a recent 'JETSTAR' crash near Peterborough that caused 16 deaths but was not investigated in a UK way. He details a sighting on October 16th, 1976, between 4.40 a.m. and 5.15 a.m., where his workmate Bruce Carter observed an object flying above Ipswich, about a mile distant and below star level. Simpson describes the object as a star-shaped hazy disc with one red light and one blue light (Bruce saw a green light). It was suspended without sound. Bruce stated it had been there since 1.00 a.m. and was watching the bakery directly. Simpson felt observed and has since been more cautious about locking his car doors. Bruce, with 18 years of experience, had never seen such an object in Anglia.

Why I Believe in UFOs

This section features an article by William Shatner (reprinted from an American newspaper article sent in by Jeraldine Franz). Shatner states his belief in UFOs, dismissing official explanations. He notes the overwhelming evidence from numerous sightings worldwide. He expresses a lack of understanding regarding their purpose or lack of large-scale contact. He mentions speaking with 'Star Trek' writers and advisors who were convinced of UFO existence and extraterrestrial origins. He concludes that the evidence is undeniable.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SKYWATCH include the reporting of numerous UFO sightings from various locations, the skepticism and reluctance of the scientific community to accept or investigate UFO phenomena, and the efforts of UFO research groups and individuals to gather and disseminate information. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards UFOs, encouraging reader participation and the sharing of evidence, while also acknowledging the challenges posed by scientific skepticism and the need for more rigorous study beyond mere report filing. The publication actively seeks contributions from its readers to sustain its efforts.

This issue of SKYWATCH, dated February 24th, 1977, focuses on UFO sightings and related theories. The cover headline poses the question, "ARE THERE MONSTERS AT THE CENTRE OF THE EARTH," hinting at an article about a group of Americans planning an expedition to explore the Earth's interior.

UFO Sighting near Bramhall

The issue begins with an account of a UFO sighting, quoting Mrs. Howe who described an object travelling "much too fast" with "aircraft lights" that "didn't look like aircraft lights." She stated she "couldn't hear a sound" and couldn't determine its size due to darkness. The object appeared to come from the direction of Bramhall. A spokesman from Jodrell Bank confirmed that their equipment did not pick up anything unusual on the morning of the sighting. The case is being investigated by MAPIT (Ministry Aerial Phenomena Investigation Team).

Another UFO sighting in Offerton on February 15th, 1977, is also mentioned as being under investigation.

The magazine appeals to anyone who has had a UFO sighting and is apprehensive about coming forward, encouraging them to contact the editorial address anonymously if desired, to avoid ridicule.

The Hollow Earth Theory

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the "Hollow Earth" theory. It describes a group of Americans who believe the Earth is hollow and that a world with its own flora, fauna, and possibly people exists miles beneath our feet. They propose reaching this interior world through giant holes in the North and South Poles. The article notes that this idea is not entirely new, referencing Buddhist beliefs in an underground paradise called AGHARTA, ruled by the King of the World from his capital, SHAMBALLA. The article then poses a question relevant to UFOlogy: "could this be the KEY TO THE WHEREABOUTS OF THE MANY SIGHTINGS OF UNIDENTIFIED FLYING OBJECTS?"

It is stated that tests proved a spate of UFO sightings occurred soon after the bombings of Hiroshima and subsequent explosions.

This article was reportedly sent to the magazine "Weekend" by reporter Graham Payne, indicating that UFO news appears in various publications.

My Opinion

An "alien universe" is presented as a genuine belief for the author and most UFOlogy group members. The author shares their personal experience of UFO spotting, detailing how they received help from a neighbour, Mr. G. Thomas, also a UFOlogy group member. The author recently joined the same group and, after visiting the home of Mr. D. L. Rees, the MAPIT Group Secretary, has spent their half-term holiday studying UFOs. The author concludes that this is merely their opinion but notes that the subject is influencing a significant percentage of the population.

This section is attributed to Stephen and John Bellis.

The Official Attitude: Ministry of Defence Correspondence

This section presents two letters received by a MAPIT member from the Ministry of Defence (MoD) in Whitehall, London, regarding their position on Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs).

Letter One thanks the sender for their inquiry and explains that the MoD investigates UFO reports from various sources (public, police, service units) to identify any defence implications. Reports are examined by experienced staff with open minds, utilizing the MoD's full scientific and professional resources, and potentially expert advice from other bodies. However, the MoD's interest is limited to the defence aspect; investigations into the scientific significance of the phenomena are not conducted. The letter states that sightings are generally considered to originate from aircraft, aircraft lights seen under unusual conditions, balloons, meteorological phenomena, astronomical sightings, satellites, or space debris.

Letter Two further clarifies the MoD's stance. It mentions non-government bodies like the Royal Observatory and the Natural History Museum as potential sources of information. Crucially, it states that civilian UFO societies are not typically consulted because the department's interest is strictly limited to defence considerations, not scientific significance. The letter emphasizes that all reports, regardless of source (including pilots), are treated identically to check for defence implications. While reports are not inherently classified, they are treated as confidential correspondence and become publicly available according to the public records act, typically after 30 years. The MoD confirms it holds no reports earlier than 1962.

Both letters are signed by H.E. Mackey.

Back Issues and Special Publications

The magazine advertises back issues of "SKYWATCH" (Issues No. 1, 2, 3, 15, 16, 17, 18, 21, and 22) available for 20p each. They also promote "SKYWATCH SPECIAL ISSUE No.2," titled "UFO SIGHTINGS FROM 1963 INVESTIGATED BY MAPIT," available for 30p.

Readers are instructed to write to the editorial address, enclosing an Open Postal Order.

Cosmology Newslink

A brief mention of "COSMOLOGY NEWSLINK" provides contact information for "UFO News, articles, letters, etc.," available for 25p a copy, with a contact address at CNK, 37, The Close, Dunmow, Essex, England CM6 1EW.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, the exploration of fringe theories like the Hollow Earth, and the official governmental perspective on UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into UFO reports, encouraging witness participation while also presenting the official, defence-focused viewpoint of the Ministry of Defence. The inclusion of personal opinions and the appeal for anonymous contributions suggest a commitment to gathering and disseminating information on the subject, even if it challenges conventional understanding.