Skywatch - No 35

Magazine Overview

SKYWATCH, Issue No. 35, dated March-April 1980, is an informal publication dedicated to ufology and related subjects. The magazine is edited by David Rees and published from Stockport, Cheshire, England, with an establishment date of 1973. The cover prominently features the title 'MAPIT SKYWATCH' and highlights the issue's content.

Readers' Letters

The issue includes a robust 'Readers' Letters' section, featuring correspondence from various individuals. Lynn and Tony Halsall commend SKYWATCH's professional manner and reporting fairness, while questioning internal movement disputes. Mark Moravec, representing the Australian Centre for UFO Studies, shares their new policy of focusing on a select few cases for critical review, aligning with Gepan's approach. Jack Allen emphasizes the need for a central information hub in ufology to avoid fragmentation and 'back-biting,' which harms the common goal of revealing truth. Jenny Randles discusses her positive experience at the London International Congress, agreeing with John Rimmer's call for different conference levels. She defends her personal commentary style, which Lionel Beer had questioned, and expresses concern over BUFORA's working party definitions, finding the definition of 'UFO Report' ridiculous and impossible to meet. Ian Ridpath critiques the ufology field for its 'sloppy thinking' and 'gullibility,' suggesting that scientists will only engage if credible evidence is presented, and questions if such evidence exists. He references James Oberg's view that UFOs are psychological and sociological phenomena. David Reneke, the author of the article 'Graphology: Another Tool for UFO Research?', expresses his belief that the field has discredited itself. John Hind found the BUFORA conference papers disappointing and marred by technical issues, advocating for events aimed at scientists and serious ufologists. Magda Graham enjoyed the issue, particularly the coverage of the congress, but found Jenny Randles' 'bitchiness' off-putting.

Mapit Newsdesk

The 'Mapit Newsdesk' section provides updates and news from the ufology community. It wishes readers a happy festive season and a good 1980, noting growing overseas interest in the UK's approach to investigation. News includes address changes for the Earth Colonisation Research Association and the upcoming publication of 'The Encyclopedia of UFOs' by Ronald Story. Lady Wilson expresses fascination with UFOs, recalling a possible sighting. Information is provided for contacting Erich von Daniken. An interview with Allen Hynek featured in a previous SKYWATCH issue was published in a Turkish magazine. A new UFO magazine, 'Helios News,' is introduced, edited by Lynne and Tony Halsall. Arthur Shuttlewood's new book, 'UFO Magic in Motion,' is mentioned. The section thanks contributors of clippings and notes Terry Hooper's active role in UFO International. Details are given for the MUFON Symposium in 1980 and Norman Oliver's 'SKYQUEST' tapes. A controversial newsletter title, 'Saucer Tit,' is noted with disapproval.

Graphology: Another Tool for UFO Research?

This article by David Reneke proposes the adoption of graphology (handwriting analysis) as a tool for UFO investigators. Reneke argues that investigators often question a witness's sincerity or ability to relate events accurately. While traditional investigation methods provide corroborative data, graphology can offer insights into a person's personality. He suggests that while not every report requires this analysis, it could be invaluable for cases involving psychic manifestations or CElll phenomena. Reneke acknowledges that graphology is often classified as pseudoscience but notes its widespread use in Europe and America, including by businesses for hiring decisions. He points out that handwriting can change due to stress, illness, or age, and that serious psychological study of handwriting has a history, citing Alfred Binet's work. The article concludes by stating that if courts and police use handwriting analysis, ufology should too.

All That Glitters...

This section, compiled by David Rees, covers several topics. 'Cottingly Photographs' discusses the BBC TV play 'Fairies' and Robert Sheaffer's analysis of the Cottingley fairy photographs, concluding they were likely a hoax involving painted features and string. 'The Amityville Horror' section critically examines Jay Anson's book, suggesting it is largely fiction created by a screenwriter. It highlights inconsistencies in the reported events and claims, noting that the Lutz family's fortunes changed dramatically after the story's publication. The section quotes Dr. Stephen Kaplan, who found no evidence of a haunted house and believes the story is mostly fiction. 'The Dyfed Demon' is mentioned as a potential future film title related to a horror story.

Institute for the Evaluation of Anomalous Phenomena

This section presents a case re-evaluated by the Institute, taken from 'Flying Saucer Review.' The 'Bignall End' case involves Mrs. Nellie Richardson's sighting on December 31, 1976, of a large oval object. The Institute's evaluation suggests the object was likely the setting moon, providing meteorological data and astronomical calculations to support this conclusion. They argue that given the conditions and the witness's proximity to the window, she should have observed the moon if it were visible. The article notes that the original report found no explanation, but the Institute disagrees, suggesting the witness may have mistaken the moon, possibly silhouetted by atmospheric conditions and ice crystals, for a UFO. The report also mentions the son's corroborating sighting and the family cat's unusual behavior.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SKYWATCH include the critical examination of UFO reports, the search for reliable investigative methodologies (such as graphology), and the debunking of sensationalized cases like the Amityville Horror and the Cottingley Fairies. The editorial stance, as reflected in the 'Readers' Letters' and the 'Mapit Newsdesk,' appears to favor a more rigorous, scientific approach to ufology, while acknowledging the public's fascination with the subject. There is an emphasis on cooperation within the ufology community and a critique of internal disputes that hinder progress. The magazine also highlights news and developments from various UFO organizations worldwide.

SKYWATCH, Issue 11, published in 1979, is a magazine focused on UFOs and paranormal phenomena. This issue features a variety of articles, reviews, and reports, including an analysis of a specific sighting, a critique of UFO investigation standards, a book review, a lecture summary, and an in-depth exploration of 'psiufological' phenomena.

Analysis of a Moon Sighting

The issue begins with an analysis of a UFO sighting that occurred on a specific date. The witness, Mrs. Richardson, observed an object for approximately 40 minutes. The conclusion drawn is that the sighting was likely a misidentification of the Moon under unusual meteorological conditions. The comments section criticizes the investigation of this case as superficial, particularly its classification as a 'humanoid report,' suggesting it was a misrepresentation of facts and a sensationalization of a natural phenomenon. The author expresses hope that researchers will amend their records for accuracy and relegate such cases to identified objects, fabrications, or hoaxes.

Submission to the International Working Party on Standards in UFO Research

This section presents a submission that raises objections to the 'International Definition of UFO Report' as accepted by the Working Party. The submission outlines five points of a proposed definition and then presents three objections. The first objection concerns clause 5, which states that the description should not specify any psychological event or process. The second objection uses a hypothetical case of a 'certified lunatic' to illustrate the problem with clause 2, arguing that the definition should not be based on a subjective judgment of the witness's character. The third objection, considered more fundamental, uses a hypothetical case of a physicist observing a new particle to show that the definition is too broad and could include any unknown phenomenon, rendering it useless for distinguishing UFO reports.

Book Review: THE AIRMEN WHO WOULD NOT DIE by John G Fuller

This review discusses John G. Fuller's book, which chronicles the story of the R101 airship and the alleged precognition of its fate through a séance. The reviewer highlights Fuller's meticulous research and the book's exploration of precognition and life after death. The review mentions the involvement of Harry Price and Eileen Garrett, and draws a parallel to the character of Sherlock Holmes, inspired by Dr. Joseph Bell. The book is praised for its ability to make readers seriously consider the hypothesis of life after death and is recommended as a valuable addition to anyone's bookcase. The reviewer notes Fuller's previous works, including UFO books like 'Incident at Exeter' and 'The Interrupted Journey.'

Lecture on UFOs by Charles Gibbs-Smith

This section summarizes a lecture given by Charles Gibbs-Smith, a Professor of Aerospace History at the Smithsonian Institute. Gibbs-Smith asserted that UFOs are real and criticized official attitudes. He mentioned that Lord Hewlett was briefed by Sir Bernard Lovell that Jodrell Bank had never seen a UFO, and that an unnamed man working for Sir Bernard was forbidden to discuss UFOs. Earl Mountbatten reportedly accepted the existence of UFOs. Gibbs-Smith discussed the 1897 'airship' flap in the USA and George Adamski, whom he considered an honest but 'half-baked seer.' He also referenced 15th-century frescoes by Pierre della Francesca depicting cloud-like UFOs and mentioned Dr. Allen Hynek multiple times.

STAR TREK - THE MOTION PICTURE by David Coote

This is a review of the film 'Star Trek - The Motion Picture.' The reviewer describes the plot involving an alien force and the Federation vessel Enterprise. While acknowledging the excellent special effects, the review criticizes a 'corny opening' and a lack of background on the crew's activities since their five-year mission. The reviewer praises the film's humor, music, and the performances, particularly DeForest Kelley as 'Bones.' The film is recommended as an excellent movie that could achieve a smash success, potentially leading to a sequel that explores moral and religious issues.

UFO Newsclipping Service

This is an advertisement for the UFO Newsclipping Service, which provides UFO reports from around the world. The service obtains newsclippings from an international press clipping bureau and reproduces them for subscribers. It covers reports from various countries, including photographs, landings, and occupant cases, often from smaller newspapers not widely circulated. English translations of foreign language reports are also provided.

1978/79 MAPIT Investigations - A Short Summary

This section presents a table summarizing the MAPIT investigations from 1978/79. It lists cases with dates, locations, times, descriptions, colors, definitions, and evaluation levels. The table includes 14 cases, with descriptions ranging from 'Cigar' and 'Round' to 'Triangle,' 'Streak,' 'Circular,' 'Ball/Tail,' 'Starlike,' '3 lights,' 'Lits/beam,' and 'Oval.' The definitions include 'Unidentified,' 'Meteorological,' and 'Poss Aircraft.' The summary states that out of the fourteen cases, thirteen are identified and one remains unidentified.

UFO Encounter in 1929 (Greece)

This report details a UFO encounter in Chalkidiki, Greece, in August 1929. Mr. Moustakas Theocliaris, a farmer, witnessed a parachute-shaped UFO at midnight. He described seeing three small beings under the object speaking an unknown language. The witness was frightened and returned to his village, where others claimed to have seen similar phenomena in the past.

EERIE CLUES BACK OFFICER'S UFO REPORT (USA)

This article reports on an incident in Warren, Minnesota, where a brightly lit object swept down on a deputy sheriff's car, leaving the vehicle damaged and the officer unconscious. Deputy Val Johnson sustained a mild case of 'welder's blindness.' The chief investigator for the Center for UFO Studies, Allan Hendry, described it as an 'anomalous case' with unusual clues, including bent antennas, a shattered windshield, and a dent in the patrol car. The stopping of Johnson's wristwatch and the car's electric clock for 14 minutes further deepened the mystery. The FAA and Air Base had no reports of aircraft in the area.

PSIUFOLOGICAL PHENOMENA: UFOS AND THE PARANORMAL

This paper by Mark Moravec explores 'psiufological' phenomena, where UFO and paranormal events overlap. It categorizes these phenomena into Mental Communications, Poltergeists, Apparitions, Paranormal Healings, and Ghostlights. For each category, it discusses hypotheses for explanation and implications for investigation. Mental communications can range from simple awareness of a UFO to complex predictions. Poltergeists involve unexplained movements of objects, potentially linked to psychokinesis. Apparitions are visual hallucinations that may correspond with external events. Paranormal healings are cases where UFO sightings are associated with the healing of ailments. Ghostlights are small, ground-level lights that reappear in the same location. The paper emphasizes the need for thorough investigation and the participation of psychology and psychiatry specialists.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation and interpretation of UFO phenomena, the challenges in defining what constitutes a UFO report, and the potential overlap between UFO sightings and paranormal experiences. There's a critical stance on superficial investigations and a call for more rigorous research. The magazine appears to present a wide range of topics within the UFO and paranormal field, from specific case studies to theoretical discussions and reviews of relevant literature.

This issue, identified as number 21 and part of volume 'IS', is dated March 31, 1980. It appears to be a publication focused on UFO research and related phenomena, likely originating from Australia given the mention of Mark L. Moravec from Pymble, NSW, as the editor and copyright holder. The content delves into the intersection of paranormal experiences and UFO sightings, offering references for further study and a selection of audio cassette recordings for sale.

Key Articles and Content

The issue begins by posing critical questions for investigators of paranormal events, emphasizing the importance of understanding a witness's prior experiences and any objective physical manifestations to distinguish between genuine phenomena and psychological origins. The editor, Mark L. Moravec, expresses interest in collecting psiufological cases for a projected Australian catalogue.

References

• A comprehensive list of references is provided, including:
• 'An Australian Catalogue of Close Encounter Type Three Reports' by K. Basterfield.
• 'Australian Ghosts' edited by F. Cusak.
• 'Canada's UFO Poltergeist' by W. Greystone.
• 'The Min-Min Light' by H.G. Lamond.
• 'UFO over the Mooraduc Road' by J. Magee.
• 'UFO percipients' by A. Michel.
• 'SPR. Notes for Investigators of Spontaneous Cases' from the Society for Psychical Research.
• 'TUFOIC Annual Report for 1977' from the Taxmanian UFO Investigation Centre.

Cassettes for Sale

• A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to advertising audio cassette recordings, offering a variety of UFO-related content:
• CS-1 Space Visitors from Lanulus: Narrated by Woodrow Derenberger, featuring an audio of a TV broadcast about his contacts with Indrid Cold.
• CS-2 The Truth behind the flying saucers: Features voices of famous contactees like George van Tassel, Dan Fry, and Orfeo Angelluci, with commentary from Maj. Donald Keyhoe and Frank Edwards.
• CS-3 Music From Another Planet: Narrated by Howard Menger, who shares his experiences with space people and the music taught to him.
• CS-4 Gray Barker on the Air: A radio interview with Gray Barker recounting UFO theories and creature encounters.
• CS-5 The World of Kazik: Narrated by Albert K. Bender, discussing alleged hush-ups by Men in Black.
• CS-6 The Reinhold Schmidt Story: A radio broadcast detailing Schmidt's encounter with a UFO and German-speaking people, concluding with confirmation of a UFO at a military base.
• CS-7 The UFO Encounters of Jennings H. Frederick: Frederick's account of encountering a 'vegetable man' and other experiences, including abduction and visitations.
• CS-8 The Men in Black: John A. Keel addresses the 1967 New York Congress of Scientific Ufologists, discussing Men in Black, contactees, and strange creatures.
• CS-9 A Warning from UFOs: By John Stuart, detailing alleged evil UFO entities terrorizing researchers. This tape is not recommended for children or those with nervous dispositions.
• CS-10 Carlos Allende Speaks: Features the voice of Carlos Miguel Allende discussing the Philadelphia experiment and the disappearing ship.
• CS-11 The Shaver Mystery: Narrated by Ray Palmer, recounting his night in Shaver's house, hearing voices of Dero, and discussing the Maury Island affair.

Prices for these cassettes range from £4.25 to £5.25 and include postage and packing. Payment instructions for overseas orders are provided.

Skywatch UFO Detectors

The issue also introduces the 'Skywatch UFO Detector' (SKUFOD), a pocket-sized device designed to detect the electromagnetic effects produced by UFOs. The article explains that UFOs can cause magnetic compasses to spin wildly, TVs to ghost, and radios to emit hums and crackles, and that their electromagnetic fields can even trigger power station relays, causing blackouts. The SKUFOD is presented as a vital tool for ufologists, capable of detecting these effects and alerting the user with an audible alarm. Specifications and pricing (£9.80 inclusive of postage, packing, and batteries) are provided, with orders to be sent to Malcolm Jay.

Advertisements

• Several other publications and organizations are advertised:
• JOURNAL OF GEOMANCY: A quarterly magazine.
• THE KINGDOM VOICE: A monthly newsletter on Bible prophecy and the new age.
• OCCULT WORLD: An independent magazine bridging occult traditions.
• REVELATION: A quarterly magazine for occult students and spiritual seekers.
• FREE! FREE!: A quarterly newsletter from the Supernatural Research Society.
• UFO INSIGHT: An informative magazine published by the Federation of UFO Research.
• WARMINSTER: Information on a Ley and UFO Centre and accommodation for researchers.
• MAGIC SAUCER: A magazine for young UFO enthusiasts.
• THE LEY HUNTER: A magazine edited by Paul Devereux.
• FORESIGHT: A bi-monthly magazine on spiritual evolution.
• EARTHLINK: A publication for serious flying saucer news and reports.
• GNOME NEWS: The Gnome Club of Great Britain/Gnome International's newsletter.

• Further advertisements include:
• FORTEAN TIMES: A quarterly magazine of strange phenomena.
• UFO DIRECTORY: A listing of UFO societies, groups, and publications.

Other Sections

The End Bits

This section includes quotations, such as Elbert Hubbard's definition of an editor and a proverb about committees. It also features a quote from Magda Graham.

Strange Deaths

Two brief accounts of unusual deaths are presented: villagers in the Philippines who challenged a religious leader to prove life after death, and a man attacked by bees and subsequently devoured by piranha fish in the Amazon.

Notable Quotes

A quote from Jean Rook of the Daily Express states: "I don't care if they are balloons, reflections, aircraft, Fallucinations or Patrick Moore lit up, nothing will crack my belief in flying saucers."

Definition of a Housing Estate

A cynical definition is provided: "A place where young people go to die.....?"

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of UFO phenomena, the nature of paranormal experiences, and the importance of evidence and critical evaluation. The editorial stance, as indicated by the questions posed and the references provided, leans towards a serious, investigative approach to UFO research, encouraging the collection of data and the exploration of connections between different types of unexplained phenomena. The inclusion of numerous audio cassette advertisements suggests a focus on personal testimony and anecdotal evidence as a significant part of the UFO discourse.