Strange Daze - number 15

Magazine Overview

STRANGE DAZE NUMBER 15, FEBRUARY 1998

This issue of Strange Daze, published by Northern UFO Research and Investigation (NUFORI), presents a mix of UFO reports, space mission updates, and editorial commentary. The magazine aims to provide a balanced and open-minded perspective on UFOlogy, distinguishing itself from more sensationalist publications.

Editorial

In his editorial, Editor Dave D. Newton apologizes for the late appearance of the issue, attributing it to a busy period in late 1997. He recounts his involvement with editing 'UFO Times' for BUFORA (The British UFO Research Association) and the internal turmoil within BUFORA, including financial difficulties and resignations. Newton expresses hope for BUFORA's future under the leadership of Gloria Dixon and emphasizes that Strange Daze will not compromise its integrity for sales, stating, "UFO = aliens = sales = $$$$" is not its philosophy. He criticizes the "Fantasy UFOlogy" prevalent in many glossy magazines, which he finds depressing and overly American, focusing instead on witness testimony and observation projects.

Contents

The issue features an editorial, news section, and several articles, including:

• Rubber Stamping by Christopher Davies BSc
• Man or Astroman interview with Y. Axl Cyderblent
• Heart of Darkness Part II by David Sivier
• Reviews
• Letters
• Stan T. Skeptic investigates Heck's Files

Cover Story and Features

The cover highlights an article titled "DECONSTRUCTING THE NAZI SAUCER MYTH WITH DAVID SIVIER" and an interview with "THE MAN OR ASTROMAN." The cover image features a classic flying saucer illustration and a grainy photograph of a UFO. The magazine also includes "NEWS, REVIEWS & LETTERS."

UFO Sightings and Incidents

This issue details numerous UFO sightings and related phenomena from around the world:

• UFO over Symi, Greece (August 30, 1997): A photograph of a UFO was taken by April Turner, described as unidentified pending further analysis.
• British Jetliner Sights Giant UFO over Yorkshire (December 8, 1997): A Boeing 737 passenger reported a very large, black, thin, cigar-shaped object, estimated at 2,000 feet long, moving slowly at 33,000 feet.
• UFO Flies Over a Dam in Central Wales (December 19, 1997): Two forestry rangers observed a bright ball of light with four sparkly tails, moving north-northeasterly over a hydroelectric dam.
• Luminous UFO Flies Over a City in Central Italy (December 14, 1997): Pedestrians in Terni reported a luminous object in the form of a pointed arch flying horizontally.
• Giant Meteor Lights Up the Sky Over Greenland (December 9, 1997): Fishermen and a surveillance camera recorded a giant flash, believed to be a meteor, over the eastern coast of Greenland.
• Four Children Killed in Colombia Meteor Strike (December 14, 1997): A house fire resulted in the deaths of four children, with firefighters reporting seeing fireballs raining from the sky.
• Triangular UFO Sighted in Western Georgia (December 5, 1997): A witness reported a triangle-shaped UFO with five lights, estimated at 50 feet, flying southeast.
• Triangular-Shaped UFO Seen in Southern Oregon (November 13, 1997): A woman saw a boomerang-shaped object with three bright lights that moved erratically.
• Brunei Men Spot a UFO Hovering Over Their Town (November 1997): Residents reported seeing bright UFOs cavorting in the night sky.
• Two Boys Photograph UFO Over Siracusa (November 15, 1997): Two boys took photos of a discoidal object with a shiny surface that moved erratically.
• Glowing UFO Frightens Onlookers in Tunisia (November 9, 1997): A bright orange, luminous object was observed for about four minutes, emitting a strange odor.
• Chupacabra Strikes Twice in Puerto Rico (November 10, 1997): Reports of livestock attacks attributed to the Chupacabra, with unusual puncture marks and alleged sightings of multiple horses and cows fleeing.
• Two More UFO Sightings Reported in Britain (December 1, 1997 & November 12, 1997): Sightings of a fiery object in Rotherham and a shining light that split into seven smaller lights in Bognor Regis.
• UFO Follows Bus in Central Argentina (November 25, 1997): A luminous, half-moon-shaped object with multiple rows of lights paced a transit bus.
• UFOs Active in Italy (November 13, 1997): Reports of a flying object emitting violet light over Abruzzo and an unidentified sound in Teramo.

Space News

The issue provides several updates on space exploration:

• Cassini Mission to Saturn (October 15, 1997): Details the successful launch of the Cassini spacecraft on its seven-year journey to Saturn, including trajectory plans and scientific objectives.
• Crippled Solar Panel Delays Mars Surveyor Map Mission: The Mars Surveyor mission faced delays due to a damaged solar panel, impacting its mapping schedule and budget.
• NASA Ends Pathfinder's Mission to Mars: Communication with the Pathfinder spacecraft and its rover, Sojourner, was officially halted after a successful mission.
• Space Highlights for 1998: Previews upcoming missions including Lunar Prospector, NEAR, Deep Space 1, AXAF, and the Far Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer (FUSE).

Other Reports

• Peruvian Girl Develops Superman's Heat Vision: A news report about a 13-year-old girl in Peru who allegedly developed heat vision after a house fire.
• Judge Sends John Ford to N.Y. Mental Hospital: Ufologist John Ford was ordered to a mental hospital pending trial on charges related to alleged threats involving radioactive materials.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings from diverse global locations, updates on space exploration missions, and the ongoing efforts and challenges within the UFO research community. The editorial stance, as articulated by Dave D. Newton, is one of critical inquiry, emphasizing evidence-based investigation over sensationalism and alien-centric narratives. The magazine positions itself as a platform for serious discussion and witness testimony, rejecting the commercialization of UFOlogy and the pursuit of "alien" stories solely for profit or entertainment. There's a clear critique of the American UFO scene and its influence on the UK and global UFOlogy, advocating for a more grounded and scientific approach.

This issue of Strange Daze magazine, identified as issue 11, focuses on a collection of UFO sightings and related phenomena reported primarily in late 1997 from various international locations. The content includes eyewitness accounts, investigative notes, and interviews, alongside a critical examination of UFO evidence and theories.

UFO SEEN TWICE OVER SMALL TOWN IN SCOTLAND

This section details two separate sightings in Dedridge, Scotland, on October 14, 1997. The first was by a 31-year-old woman who described a strange light that illuminated her house and disappeared when two planes flew overhead. The second report came from a 27-year-old mother who had seen a similar light, describing it as a subtle blue light, slow-moving, and about the size of a football.

SPINNING UFO, WEIRD FLASHES VIDEOTAPED IN SCOTLAND

This report from Bonnybridge, Scotland, describes a series of events on October 21 and 23, 1997. The Malcolm family witnessed a 'spinning UFO' hovering outdoors, followed by 'hyper-jumping, laser-like bursts' and 'pulsing, erratic, hyper-jumping lights.' A friend of the family also saw 'two large orbs of light and a smaller probe-like orb' that merged into a large mass. Mr. Malcolm managed to tape the 'large mass of light' which was seen to spin and move. The event was accompanied by a red double-decker bus passing by.

DAYLIGHT UFOs SPOTTED IN CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND

On November 12, 1997, in Christchurch, New Zealand, multiple witnesses reported seeing two 'eye-shaped objects' traveling at high speed (80-100 mph) at an altitude of approximately 3,500 feet. The objects were described as 12-plus feet across, with silver centers and black tapered outer areas.

SPINNING UFO SEEN IN ITALY

On October 16, 1997, in San Nicolo Comelico, Italy, a city official and his family observed a UFO for four hours. Initially a 'pale luminous light,' it departed at 8:30 p.m., rapidly taking off and changing its form to a 'spinning top' that emitted blue smoke.

TWO NATO JETS PURSUE UFO OVER FRANCE

Two NATO F-16 type jet interceptors reportedly chased a UFO over the Eure-et-Loire department of France on October 27, 1997. Eyewitness Marie Franck described seeing a 'flying tube without wings' with fire coming out of its stern, moving horizontally at high speed.

IRISH UFOLOGISTS QUESTION BOYLE SAUCER CRASH EYEWITNESSES

Researchers from IUFOPRA are interviewing witnesses to a reported saucer crash in the Curlieu Mountains, Ireland, in May 1996. The alleged craft, from 'the planet Sunas,' sliced off treetops and landed in a lake. The occupants were reportedly taken into custody by a retrieval team. The site was sealed off, and covert operations involving helicopters were noted.

UFOS SEEN IN MANY TOWNS OF BRAZIL'S BAHIA STATE

From October 17 to October 19, 1997, UFOs were sighted in western Bahia state, Brazil. An 'enormous flying apparition' was seen in Dom Basilio and later flew over Livramento do Brumado. Residents in Riachao da Jacupe reported sightings for 12 consecutive days. Mysterious explosions in Dias Davra are also being investigated for a possible link.

MYSTERY BOOM SHAKES UP IMMINGHAM, ENGLAND

On November 25, 1997, a loud 'mystery boom' or 'skyquake' was heard east of Immingham, England, accompanied by a vivid flash of white light over the North Sea.

PULSATING LIGHTS SEEN OVER IMMINGHAM, LINCOLNSHIRE

On October 21 and 22, 1997, anomalous pulsating and flashing lights were observed in the night sky over Immingham, UK. Eyewitness Paul H. described two blinking lights that flew over his house from the east, noting they were not audible and appeared to be 'planes or choppers.' He later observed a third object join the first two, and they engaged in an aerial display before dispersing.

STARLIKE UFO SEEN FLYING OVER SHEFFIELD

On October 18, 1997, Bert Bromley reported seeing a 'starlike' red light in the sky over Sheffield, UK, which appeared to be three or four times brighter than a typical airplane and traveled on a south-southwest to north-northeast course.

ANOMALOUS LIGHTS REPORTED OVER CENTRAL WALES

Residents in Maesiocyn, Wales, have reported seeing 'lights resembling large stars' in the eastern sky that move erratically. These lights flash red, green, and orange when viewed through binoculars and are accompanied by loud rumbling noises.

NEARLY TWO DOZEN FOXES FOUND MUTILATED IN BARNSLEY

A BBC report on October 24, 1997, detailed the discovery of 26 mutilated foxes in Barnsley, England. The culprits remain unknown.

Colin the Clip Art

This section features clip art related to Ancient Egypt, including Anubis, Amon Ra, God of the Sun, and an Adorner of the unread papyrus.

RUBBER STAMPING by Christopher Davies BSc

Christopher Davies argues that the UFO community is too eager to authenticate evidence without proper investigation. He uses the example of a video clip that appeared to show a UFO, but upon closer analysis revealed a gondola, tail fins, and a tail light, suggesting it was an airship. Davies stresses the importance of thorough, methodical, and scientific analysis of evidence to maintain the credibility of Ufology and warns against the media's profit-driven use of UFOs.

MAN... OR ASTROMAN? TELL ALL

This is an interview with Birdstuff, a member of the band Man... or Astroman? The interview covers the band's origins, their self-proclaimed identity as beings from 'Grid Sector 23-B61,' their music, and their views on UFOs and alien phenomena. Birdstuff discusses their unique approach to music creation, their use of synthesized sounds, and their belief that they are the result of Nicola Tesla's research. They also touch upon the concept of 'gaseous beings' and their mission to 'dismantle the earth and smooth out the crinkles.' The band claims to be suppressed by the American government. They mention their album 'Technetium' and songs like 'The Man Made of Carbon Dioxide,' 'The Miracle of Genuine Pyrex,' and 'Saucerful of Sucrets.' They also discuss their involvement with One Louder Records and the Lambton Worm.

HEART OF DARKNESS PART II: Notes Towards the Deconstruction of a Myth by David Sivier

This article examines the enduring rumour that flying saucers originated from Nazi experimental craft developed during World War II. It traces the myth's origins to statements made in the 1950s about alleged German aircraft designs and their potential transfer to the US and Russia via Operation Paperclip. The article discusses how the myth evolved to include Nazi occultism and alien civilizations, and later incorporated the phenomenon of alien abductions, with theories suggesting abductees are subjected to experiments by 'cyborg' aliens.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings across various global locations, the investigation of anomalous aerial phenomena, and the critical analysis of UFO evidence. The magazine appears to adopt a stance that encourages rigorous investigation and skepticism within the UFO community, as highlighted by Christopher Davies' article. There is also an underlying theme of questioning official narratives and exploring alternative explanations for phenomena, as seen in the interview with Man... or Astroman? and the article on Nazi UFO myths. The editorial stance seems to be one of presenting diverse reports while also advocating for a more scientific and evidence-based approach to the study of UFOs.

This issue of UFO Magazine, identified as issue number 21 and volume 2, published in December 1997, critically examines the persistent myth of Nazi flying saucers. The magazine aims to separate factual investigation from propaganda and speculative theories.

The Nazi UFO Myth: A Critical Examination

The article begins by addressing the controversial theory that flying saucers originated from Nazi Germany, noting that much of the material comes from untrustworthy sources like the Nazi Vril and Thule societies, and neo-Nazi apologists. It highlights recent articles in "Sightings" and "Alien Encounters" that have revived interest in the topic, particularly concerning alleged Nazi technology like the Avrocar.

Concerns are raised about the ethical implications of discussing Nazi projects due to the slave labor, starvation, and murder involved. However, the author argues that moral repugnance should not prevent skeptical investigation, especially if there is a factual basis for the claims. The article stresses the importance of understanding that Nazi technical feats were built at a cost of millions of innocent lives.

Debunking Exotic Claims

Several exotic rumors are addressed and largely discounted. The idea that flying discs were built according to spiritual messages from Aldebaran is dismissed. The Vril society, often cited as a source of Nazi occult power, is traced back to the novel "The Coming Race" by Bulwer-Lytton and later popularized by Madame Blavatsky and the Theosophists. The article also debunks the notion that the Nazis were in contact with a civilization at Aldebaran, a red giant star, due to its distance and the lack of detected signals.

Technological Implausibility

The article scrutinizes various technological claims. The concept of a "Black Sun" is attributed to a confusion of Nazi mystical ideas with modern concepts of Black Holes. The possibility of Nazi saucers being powered by miniature Black Holes is dismissed as "absolute rubbish" due to the immense power and mass requirements.

Claims about Nazi saucers possessing a klystron tube are examined. While klystron tubes are real components used in radar, the article argues that their use in a Nazi aircraft for disrupting radar would be impractical and energetically demanding, likely causing the aircraft to drop out of the sky. The idea of using such a device as a laser is also deemed impossible due to energy requirements.

Regarding alleged Nazi experiments with disruptive gases, the article notes that while some claims might have a basis, the effectiveness and practicality of using such weapons are questionable, especially given their indiscriminate nature.

The theory of remotely controlled "foo fighters" using a primitive form of television is considered, acknowledging that the Nazis likely possessed a primitive form of television. However, the lack of evidence for such a system being widely used or known outside of specific projects raises doubts.

Nazi Bases and Personnel

The article addresses the myth of Nazi bases in the Antarctic, suggesting it's a recent invention rather than old fact, likely stemming from Nazi fantasies and propaganda. It notes that Hitler did send an expedition to the Antarctic in 1938, but this was likely part of a general scramble for the continent.

The idea of ufonauts being cyborgs is also questioned, as the concept of cyborgs is largely a product of later NASA research, and the cost of developing such technology would have been prohibitive for any alleged Nazi base.

Several individuals associated with Nazi UFO projects are discussed, including Giuseppe Belluzzo and Habermohl, who are described as obscure figures, with questions raised about their actual involvement or even existence.

Evidence and Propaganda

The article emphasizes the lack of concrete, verifiable evidence for many of the claims. Photographs and documents presented in publications like "UFO Secrets of the Third Reich" are questioned for their authenticity, noting the ease with which such materials can be faked and the market for Nazi-related artifacts. The unsigned flying saucer designs appearing in the neo-Nazi magazine "Brisant" are considered particularly dubious, potentially altered to make propaganda more plausible.

It is suggested that while the Germans may have investigated disc-shaped aircraft, these proved unworkable and arrived too late to be effective weapons. The article posits that many sightings might be misidentifications of conventional aircraft, such as the Avrocar, or even mass hallucinations induced by the extreme conditions of war.

The Role of Science and Politics

The article touches upon the complex relationship between science and politics in Nazi Germany, noting the regime's anti-intellectualism and the politicization of science. It highlights how the expulsion of Jewish scientists and the influence of the "leadership principle" hampered scientific progress.

Conclusion

The author concludes that the myth of Nazi UFOs is largely a propaganda construct, fueled by a desire for a "Nazi super weapon" and confused with spurious claims regarding Nazi occultism and Antarctic exploration. The investigation into these stories is likely to relegate any actual German disc-shaped aircraft research to a brief mention in history books on World War II aircraft, with the rest being dismissed as a "nasty, propaganda myth."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFOlogy, particularly the persistent narratives surrounding alleged Nazi involvement in flying saucer technology. The magazine adopts a skeptical stance, emphasizing the need for rigorous investigation, the separation of fact from propaganda, and the ethical considerations of historical research. The editorial stance is one of caution against uncritical acceptance of sensational claims, advocating for a rational and evidence-based approach to understanding the phenomenon. The issue also highlights the psychological and political factors that contribute to the enduring nature of such myths.

Title: Strange Daze
Issue: 15
Date: 1998

This issue of Strange Daze magazine offers a diverse range of articles and features related to UFOlogy, conspiracy theories, and skeptical analysis. It includes personal accounts, historical research, and commentary on popular culture phenomena.

Conference Report: A Day of UFOlogy

The issue opens with a report on a UFOlogy conference, highlighting the "great abduction debate" and an incident involving Larry O'Hara. The author, Dave Newton, praises the organization by Eric Morris and Tim Matthews, despite some dramatic moments. He notes the debate's inconclusive nature regarding belief in aliens, with a show of hands indicating zero believers among the remaining audience.

Tim Matthews Bites Back

Tim Matthews responds to a previous article, defending research into "Nazi UFOs" and refuting claims that there were no flying discs in Germany. He references the German-language publication Luftfahrt International (4/1980) and Alexander Lippisch's work on circular-wing aircraft, specifically the AS6 VI. Matthews discusses the jet-powered version of the AS6 aircraft tested at Muroc Field in 1947 and mentions Northrop's XB35 flying wing. He also details Project Silverbug, a VTOL radial-flow circular wing aircraft developed by a UK-US-Canadian team, with technical documents available from Wright-Patterson Technical Library. Matthews suggests that the covert use of such technologies in post-war years explains the secrecy and that some UFOs are man-made, with reasons for cover-up. He criticizes the tendency to label all man-made UFO research as "Nazi" and defends his own research, which he claims is unpopular.

Matthews also addresses claims about Ernst Zundel's Nazi saucer work, stating he has spoken to Zundel and that Zundel considered the flying saucer phenomenon a money-making scam. He points out that remote-control aircraft were flying in the 1930s and refutes the idea that all "foo fighter" sightings were made by pilots, citing ground sightings.

The ARSE End of the Magazine: More from Mr Karma Nips

Karma Nips, writing from the perspective of the "Armchair Researchers Study of the Extraordinary" (ARSE) group, recounts their experience watching the LWT TV show "Strange but it's all True and Live!". He describes his wife Kitty's anticipation and his own nervous excitement. Nips then details a "Live!" debate organized by ARSE, featuring a "For" panel (Stanton Friedman, Timothy Good, Nick Pope) and an "Against" panel (Vince Smethwick, son of ARSE treasurer).

The debate, which Nips describes as a shouting match, covered topics like Roswell and Socorro. The evening ended with Vince Smethwick leaving with Rick "Fox" Richardson. Nips expresses concern that such internal conflicts could affect smaller UFO groups like NUFOAROIOI/Strange Ways, emphasizing the need to repair broken trust.

X-Files Conundrum by John McDonald

John McDonald questions the logic behind the premise of The X-Files, noting the FBI's historical role in UFO disinformation and deception. He highlights the irony of two FBI agents, Mulder and Scully, now investigating UFOs. McDonald describes the "Lone Gunmen" as embodying the paranoid half-life of conspiracy buffs and UFO researchers. He speculates on the show's success and the potential for a "secret government" influence. McDonald offers a humorous suggestion for the series finale, involving Scully becoming a believer and marrying the Lone Gunman.

Editor's Comment

The editor provides a brief, humorous comment on John McDonald's piece, referencing the "grungy, gizmo filled apartment" of the Lone Gunmen and suggesting the X-Files could be a musical filmed in Manchester.

Research Requests

Philip Mantle of Batley, West Yorkshire, requests information on UFO landing cases and UFO sightings by young people (under 18), guaranteeing confidentiality and credit for published material.

Jean Bastide of Aix-en-Provence, France, seeks reports of UFOs seen by pilots in France or elsewhere.

Chris Holton of Stafford is looking to contact former members of the Tyneside UFO Society.

Plug for Abduction Watch

The issue includes a recommendation for Kevin McClure's newsletter "Abduction Watch", described as providing the "low down on the abduction scene in this country."

Coming in Strange Daze 16

A preview for the next issue announces Part Three of David Sivier's "Heart of Darkness" series, titled "Unidentified Flying Benkers - the Ivy House Connection".

The Theories of Stan. T. Skeptic

This is a multi-panel comic strip featuring a character named Stan. T. Skeptic who investigates paranormal phenomena. He visits Abergeldie Castle, dismisses ghosts as products of an "unstable and disturbed mind," and attributes the Bonnybridge UFO sightings to lenticular clouds and large birds. He also debunks the Livingston UFO case and Loch Ness Monster sightings as hoaxes or debris. The comic satirizes skeptical approaches to paranormal claims.

Sister Matilda « 4 »

This is a comic strip featuring "Sister Matilda" and her "Moral Crusader" performance. It includes scenes in a "Private Shop" with adult toys and videos, and a "Lofthouse Seamans Mission" where Sister Matilda is performing. The strip appears to be satirical.

Comic Strip (Pages 8)

This section contains a multi-panel comic strip, likely continuing a narrative or featuring a recurring character. The panels depict various scenes, including a misty dawn, a character named Ethel, a room booking, and a character in a bed. The style suggests a humorous or slice-of-life narrative.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO phenomena, often with a critical or skeptical lens, while also giving space to researchers and believers. There's a recurring theme of debunking and questioning official narratives, alongside a fascination with advanced technology, particularly historical German aerospace projects. The publication seems to embrace a somewhat irreverent and sometimes humorous approach to its subject matter, as evidenced by the comic strips and the "ARSE" segment. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging debate and the sharing of information, while also acknowledging the potential for hoaxes, misinterpretations, and even man-made explanations for UFO sightings.