Strange Daze - number 11

Magazine Overview

Title: STRANGE DAZE
Issue: 11
Date: November 1996
Publisher: NUFORI Northern UFO Research & Investigation
Country: United Kingdom
Price: £1.00

This issue of Strange Daze, the eleventh publication from NUFORI, offers a diverse range of articles focusing on UFO phenomena, paranormal experiences, and scientific discoveries. The cover prominently features the question "WAS THERE LIFE ON MARS?", highlighting a key article discussing recent NASA announcements regarding evidence of primitive life on the red planet. The magazine aims to provide a platform for various viewpoints on UFOs and related phenomena, emphasizing content over glossy presentation.

Editorial

The editorial welcomes readers to the eleventh issue, noting improvements in print quality due to the use of a microprocessor-powered computer. The editor acknowledges the mix of British and American English spellings and the continued use of cut-and-paste methods. The editorial highlights the exciting times we live in, with advancements in space exploration and the discovery of new planets. It discusses the NASA team's evidence for past life on Mars, the potential for future manned missions, and the general pace of scientific and technological advancement. The editor reflects on the increasing specialization in science, making it difficult for amateurs to contribute as they once could. The piece also touches upon contemporary concerns like pollution and global warming, suggesting a shift towards an era of myth and magic. The editor expresses a personal opinion that while the extraterrestrial hypothesis for UFOs is popular, the evidence seen by NUFORI does not conclusively support it, suggesting the phenomenon is a mystery with many possible explanations.

Articles and Features

News: Ancient Life on Mars?

This section reports on the astonishing news from a group of nine NASA scientists who believe they have found evidence of primitive life on Mars. The evidence comes from the meteorite ALH 84001, discovered in Antarctica. Analysis revealed tiny sausage-shaped objects resembling bacteria, iron sulphide and magnetite, and organic molecules called PAHs, suggesting the decay of living matter. While Viking landers in the 1970s did not detect life, the current findings strengthen the case for further exploration of Mars.

Meteorite Yields Evidence of Primitive Life on Early Mars (NASA Press Release)

This is a direct press release from NASA dated August 7, 1996, detailing the findings of a NASA research team. The team found organic molecules, mineral features characteristic of biological activity, and possible microscopic fossils of primitive organisms within the Martian meteorite ALH 84001. The meteorite, dated at 4.5 billion years old, is believed to have been ejected from Mars about 16 million years ago. The findings suggest that life may have existed on Mars when it was warmer and wetter, and that this life might have even seeded Earth.

Philip Mantle/ Gloria Dixon BUFORA Confusion

This brief report states that Philip Mantle has stepped down from the BUFORA director of investigations post, with Gloria Dixon taking over sooner than originally planned.

Yet More New Planets

Californian astronomers Geoff Marcy and Paul Butler have discovered new planets orbiting other stars, including a 0.6 Jupiter mass planet orbiting Upsilon Andromedae and a potential second planet orbiting Rho Cancri.

Comets

This section mentions Comet Hyakutake as the first bright naked-eye comet since 1976, and also notes Comet Hale-Bopp and Comet Tabur as visible at the time of publication.

Controversy over Antigravity Machine

New Scientist reported on a device constructed by Eugene Podkletnov and Petri Vuorinen that allegedly reduces the weight of objects. The paper was withdrawn, and the university denied knowledge of recent experiments, though research in the early 1990s was admitted.

Case Reports from Around Britain by Gloria Dixon

This section presents several case reports, focusing on the 'close encounter experience' rather than 'abduction' due to concerns about the reliability of regressive hypnosis. Dixon advocates for investigating the people experiencing these events and understanding the human consciousness and the nature of reality.

• Windwhistle Hill, Somerset (Summer 1977): A family experienced a time distortion and observed a large orange light. Later, fragmented memories emerged, suggesting a possible encounter with a tall, human-like figure and a strange atmosphere.
• Coulsdon, Surrey (July 1995): A man heard a droning noise and observed a saucer-shaped object rise from the ground and hover before disappearing.
• Cley Hill, Warminster (Summer 1982): Two men experienced a cessation of natural sounds, felt drawn into an 'invisible dome', heard booms, and saw a crop circle, concluding it was created by whirlwinds.
• Almeria, Spain (July 1993): A woman experienced a near-death experience after a car crash, describing out-of-body sensations and a dreamlike encounter with a hovering, weightless object.

Dixon emphasizes that these experiences often involve altered perceptions of time and a 'strange atmosphere', suggesting a possible connection to 'inner space' or consciousness.

BONNYBRIDGE: WHAT'S REALLY GOING ON! By Malcolm Robinson.

Malcolm Robinson returns to UFOlogy and discusses the significant UFO wave that occurred above Bonnybridge, Scotland, starting in November 1992. He recounts his involvement as a local UFO researcher, working with Councillor Billy Buchanan to collect reports. Robinson details his investigations, including checking with local airports, police, and meteorological stations, and notes that witnesses were certain the objects were not conventional aircraft. He highlights several specific reports:

• James Thomson (pseudonym): Observed two huge bright white lights moving slowly with a humming noise.
• The Sloggett Case: A mother, daughter, and son witnessed a large circle of light that landed, followed by a strong blue light, accompanied by rattling sounds and a 'whirring sound'.

Robinson addresses the skepticism surrounding the Bonnybridge sightings, refuting claims of mere hype and presenting evidence of genuine phenomena, including low-level, close-proximity sightings. He mentions Steven Wilson's observation of an oval, red object and Jim Walker's sighting of a "bright cluster of lights" and a triangular display.

Robinson also discusses the possibility of military aircraft being mistaken for UFOs, referencing the Stealth bomber and Aurora aircraft, and the potential for military misdirection. He notes the decline in reports but emphasizes that the phenomenon has not disappeared. The article mentions video footage and photographs of UFOs taken by the Malcolm family and Peter Muir, describing a round, circular object emitting strong white light.

Robinson disputes the widely quoted figure of 2,000 UFO sightings, estimating the true number to be between 250 and 300. He categorizes the common UFO shapes observed as colored balls of light, Toblerone shapes (triangular), and 'soup plate' shapes (disc-like).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the possibility of extraterrestrial life, particularly concerning Mars, and the investigation of UFO sightings and close encounter experiences. There is a critical stance on the use of regressive hypnosis in UFO investigations, advocating for a more holistic approach that considers the experiencer's psychology and consciousness. The magazine also explores paranormal phenomena and the potential for scientific breakthroughs in areas like antigravity. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, seeking rational explanations while acknowledging the mysterious nature of many reported events, and prioritizing substantive content over sensationalism.

This issue of Strange Phenomena magazine, dated September 1996, features a cover story on the "Big Bad Wolves" of the New Age by Kevin McClure, and an exploration of the Bonnybridge UFO mystery by Malcolm Robinson. It also includes an article on human spontaneous involuntary invisibility by Donna Higbee, and a series of book reviews.

The Bonnybridge Mystery by Malcolm Robinson

Malcolm Robinson discusses the UFO phenomenon in the Bonnybridge area of Scotland, suggesting that the increased reports are due to local people becoming more aware and actively looking skyward. He recounts the abduction of two Edinburgh men in August 1992 as a pivotal case that moved him to the 'believers' camp. Robinson criticizes sceptics who dismiss these accounts without investigating. He hopes that continued monitoring will provide clear information about these visitors whose origins remain unknown, potentially offering insights into ourselves and those observing us.

Big Bad Wolves by Kevin McClure

Kevin McClure critiques certain dangerous elements within the New Age and religious spheres, particularly those that deal with exorcism, possession, and deliverance. He contrasts these with UFOlogy, suggesting that some individuals exploit fears and beliefs for personal gain and income. McClure highlights books like "Pigs in the Parlor" and "Deliverance from Evil Spirits" which he describes as promoting a belief in demons and possession, drawing parallels to the tactics used by some UFO abduction proponents. He criticizes authors who present anecdotal evidence as fact and lack rigorous research. McClure also notes similarities in the cult-like behavior of those who believe in alien abductions and those convinced of Satanic influence, including the formation of insular support groups and the monetization of experiences.

Human Spontaneous Involuntary Invisibility by Donna Higbee, CHT

Donna Higbee explores the phenomenon of spontaneous involuntary invisibility, presenting several case studies from the U.S. and England. She describes experiences of individuals who become unseen and unheard, often to their surprise and distress. Higbee notes that these experiences occur across various locations and demographics. She touches upon potential explanations, including the concept of a light-absorbing, free-electron cloud, and discusses the historical roots of invisibility in ancient cultures and shamanistic practices. Higbee also investigates a possible correlation between invisibility experiences and psychic abilities, and whether there's a link to abduction phenomena, though her initial research suggests it's not a direct one. She welcomes further research and personal accounts.

Book Reviews

The magazine features several book reviews:

• "The Fortean Times Book of the Millennium" by Kevin McClure: Reviewed by the Editor, this book is described as an in-depth study of cults, predictions, and movements related to Millenarianism, drawing parallels between abduction and other interventionist cults.
• "The Mystery of Atlantis" by Charles Berlitz: Reviewed by the Editor, this edition is considered unimpressive and 20 years out of date, despite Berlitz's conviction about the existence of Atlantis.
• "Children Of The Light" by Cherie Sutherland: Reviewed by Malcolm Robinson, this book focuses on Near Death Experiences (NDEs) in children and is highly recommended for its incredible and graphic accounts.
• "One Step Beyond" by Elsie Oakensen: Reviewed by Malcolm Robinson, this is a personal UFO abduction experience recounted by Elsie herself, praised for its courage and honesty.
• "The Ghost Of Flight 401" by John G. Fuller: Reviewed by Malcolm Robinson, this reprint details paranormal events associated with parts from a crashed aircraft, highlighting communication between the living and the dead.
• "The Encyclopaedia of Signs, Omens and Superstitions" by Zolar: Reviewed by Jon Lee, this book explains superstitions in terms of ignorance, fear, and custom, offering traditional folk remedies that are questioned for their efficacy and safety.
• "The Lost World of Agharti" by Alec Maclellan: Reviewed by Jon Lee, this book is humorously critiqued for its promotion of controversial figures and unsubstantiated claims about the legendary kingdom of Agharti and Vril Power.
• "The Encyclopaedia of the world's greatest unsolved mysteries" by John and Anne Spencer: Reviewed by Malcolm Robinson, this book covers a wide range of paranormal subjects, offering a good introduction for those seeking enlightenment.
• "Past Lives Future Lives" by Jenny Cockell: Reviewed by Malcolm Robinson, this follow-up book explores past, present, and future lives, offering insights into reincarnation and precognitive visions.
• "The Book Of Miracles" by Stuart Gordon: Reviewed by Malcolm Robinson, this book covers various religious phenomena, including NDEs, psychic surgery, and alleged miracles, serving as an eye-opener to religious claims.
• "The Druids Source Book" by John Matthews: Reviewed by Malcolm Robinson, this extensive study explores Druid history and practices, emphasizing that the Druids have been misrepresented.
• "Psychic Protection" by William Bloom: Reviewed by Malcolm Robinson, this book offers teachings on psychic sciences, including breathing exercises and health advice, with a focus on psychic protection techniques.

Decoder by Dean James

Dean James discusses the secret code or cipher within the Liber AL, detailing efforts to determine its order and value. He explains Carol Smith's derivation of an English Qabala in 1974 and the elementary substitution code it produced. James also references Allen H. Greenfield's book "Secret Cipher of the UFOnauts," which posits that Ascended Masters communicated via codes based on numerology and Qabala, and that the Liber AL cipher can be used to trace 'UFOnauts'. The article notes that this mystical approach may alienate traditional UFOlogists.

Comic Strip: OID The Paranormal World of Dr. Bob Doddman, Ufologist

The comic strip follows Dr. Bob Doddman, a ufologist, who gives lectures and investigates UFO sightings. In one strip, he encounters a mysterious disk-shaped craft and relates it to the Kalahari Desert UFO incident. He also interacts with an ice cream vendor named Mr. Flossy, who seems to be involved in alien experiments and hybrid programs. The strip humorously touches on themes of conspiracy, alien technology, and government cover-ups.

Letters

• Malcolm Robinson writes in response to an article about a BBC 2 documentary, clarifying points about his society's (Strange Phenomena Investigations) feature and correcting inaccuracies regarding the filming location and content.
• Mick Burley responds to a previous review, questioning the reviewer's use of ridicule and advocating for a more open-minded approach to exploring metaphysical ideas and altered states of consciousness in UFO research. He emphasizes the importance of these states in understanding human consciousness and the UFO phenomenon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO phenomena, abduction experiences, and related paranormal topics, often drawing connections between these and religious or New Age beliefs. There is a clear editorial stance in favor of investigating these phenomena with an open mind, while also maintaining a critical perspective on unsubstantiated claims and the exploitation of beliefs. The reviews section highlights a wide range of books within the paranormal and esoteric genres, suggesting an interest in diverse perspectives on unexplained events. The magazine appears to champion free speech and the open presentation of UFOlogy, as evidenced by the letters section.

This issue of Strange Daze, dated 1996, is a publication focused on UFOs, alien phenomena, and related topics, presented with a blend of serious discussion and humor. The magazine features articles, advertisements, and comic strips.

Content Analysis

Physics of Object Movement vs. UFOs

The issue begins with a discussion contrasting the movement of people in film footage with the perceived movement of UFOs. The author argues that human movement in contexts like underground stations is explainable by logical behaviors such as moving towards or away from a train, or waiting. This is contrasted with UFOs, where apparent slow movement at a distance is explained by angular distance and the observer's position, implying that objects further away appear to move slower even if their actual speed is the same as closer objects.

Advertising and Merchandise

There is a prominent advertisement section for Strange Daze itself, encouraging potential advertisers to send product samples or cash. It also features an advertisement for "VISIONS QUALITY ALIENWEAR," offering stickers, sweats, T's, and hats made of 100% quality cotton. A catalogue can be obtained by sending an A5 SAE to XVISONS UK in Flintshire.

"UFO's, The Physical Aspects" Poster

An advertisement promotes a large A1 poster titled "UFO's, The Physical Aspects" from "Flights of Fancy." This poster is described as bringing together remarkable UFO reports, witness testimonies, and scale drawings to create a visual shape index for UFO phenomena. It is priced at £4.99 and can be ordered by sending cheques or postal orders payable to 'Mark Spain' to an address in Gateshead, UK.

Cover Story

The cover headline is a provocative statement attributed to a figure associated with Area 51: "ALIEN CONTACT? UFO's? HELL, NO! AREA 51 IS A TESTING GROUND FOR A NEW TYPE OF STEALTH AIRCRAFT AS 100% OF THIS EARTH'AS MY SECOND IN COMMAND HERE. ER...NEXT QUESTION, PLEASE...." This suggests a theme of government secrecy and the potential misdirection regarding UFO sightings.

"Heck's Files" Comic Strip

The comic strip "Heck's Files," created by Mik, runs across multiple pages. It features characters Major Tom and Teddy. The narrative involves a truck with "E.T.S. SERVICES" on its side, a police roadblock, and a sequence of events that seem to involve confusion, potential alien encounters, and the involvement of a "MINISTRY OF DECEIT" or "MINISTRY OF DEREIT." The comic employs sound effects like "VROOMM," "SQUELCH," "WOOSH," and "BLEEP BEEP," along with exclamations of "OH ECK!" and "?" to convey a humorous and somewhat chaotic storyline. The comic is dated 1996.

Notable Quote

The issue concludes with a quote attributed to the scientist Sir Arthur Eddington: "Shut up. Don't talk nonsense."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Strange Daze are UFOs, alien encounters, government secrecy, and conspiracy theories, all presented with a significant dose of humor and parody. The editorial stance appears to be one that questions official narratives and explores the more unusual aspects of the UFO phenomenon, while also engaging with the lighter, more speculative, and even absurd possibilities within the subject matter. The inclusion of merchandise advertising and humorous comics suggests a desire to engage a broad audience interested in these topics, from the curious to the enthusiasts.