Strange Daze - number 21

Magazine Overview

This issue of SD (Strange Daze), Issue 21, subtitled "Autumn," is priced at £2.50 and features a cover headline "RIDERS ON ELECTRIC WINDS." The cover imagery is a collage including a chariot, a hand holding an apple, and electrical discharges, with a quote "At the going down of the sun and in the morning we will remember." The magazine is dedicated to "The Few," commemorating sixty years after the Battle of Britain.

Editorial

The editorial, by Gloria Heather Dixon, expresses thanks to the editorial team, consultants, and writers, specifically mentioning Bill Rose for his contributions and Paul Cabby for cover design and layout. Kate Taylor is thanked for her role as webmaster. The editorial highlights that the issue contains articles on UFOs, earth mysteries, poltergeists, and a controversial interview with Andy Roberts, who discusses his views on the universe and consciousness.

Contents

The issue features several articles:

• RIDERS ON ELECTRIC WINDS by Bill Rose
• TALES FROM THE ARABIAN NIGHT by Flight Lieutenant Mike Hall, RAF
• AN UNKNOWN WORLD by Dane Jon
• TURNING UFO'S INTO IFO'S – NOSS by Anthony Eccles
• DESIGNING THE FUTURE—NASA by David Sivier
• THE QUEST FOR EARTH MYSTERIES by Lionel Beer
• THE MEXICAN WAVE by Jenny Randles
• STRANGE EVENTS DISTURB SAUCHIE HOUSEHOLD by Malcolm Robinson
• UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL with Andy Roberts in conversation with Gloria Heather Dixon

Additionally, there are sections for "BOOK REVIEWS: 53" and "EVENTS & INFORMATION: 57."

Riders on Electric Winds

This article by Bill Rose explores the concept of anti-gravity and electrogravitics, tracing its origins back to H.G. Wells' "Cavorite." It focuses on the research of Thomas Townsend Brown (1905-1985), who, with Professor Paul Alfred Biefeld, developed the "Biefeld-Brown Effect." This effect suggested that a capacitor's charge could produce a gravitational field. Brown's work led to experiments with "electrogravitics," and by the early 1950s, he was able to fly small tethered model discs using field effect propulsion. The article notes that while some scientists attributed these flights to ionic airflow, Brown's research gained attention from the USAF.

Brown developed plans for an anti-gravity combat aircraft called "Project Winterhaven," which would utilize electrostatic fields for propulsion, potentially achieving speeds of three and a half times the speed of sound and altitudes over 100,000 feet. The USAF became interested, initiating secret research contracts with major aerospace companies. The article suggests that this research may have been suppressed due to resistance from multinational corporations invested in existing technologies.

Operational Electrogravitics

This section discusses the potential application of electrogravitic principles in modern aircraft, particularly the Northrop-Grumman B-2A Spirit stealth bomber. An article in "Aviation Week & Space Technology" in 1992 claimed the B-2A utilized a secondary electrostatic propulsion system, pulsing at high frequencies. This disclosure reportedly led the USAF to issue warnings to scientists involved in classified projects. Northrop is noted to have studied the "Biefeld-Brown Effect" on wind tunnel models in 1968, suggesting a triangular or flying wing shape might be superior to a disc for electrogravitic propulsion.

The USAF's Flight Dynamics Laboratory at Wright-Patterson AFB was also engaged in field effect studies, identifying it as a promising future propulsion system. The article speculates that electrogravitics could explain the B-2A's high development costs and perceived shortcomings as a conventional aircraft. Dr. Paul LaViolette is cited, suggesting the B-2A's sharp leading edge is energized to high positive voltages, while the exhaust is negative, potentially enabling supersonic speeds and stealth capabilities. The article also touches upon the possibility of contrail suppression being related to exhaust temperature regulation.

Those Elusive Black Triangles

This article examines the phenomenon of unidentified triangular UFOs, noting their increase in reports since the late 1980s. It suggests these could be either alien craft or new classes of secret aircraft undergoing trials. These triangles are often described as silent, featureless, and sometimes emitting a faint blue glow. Their size is estimated between 100 to 1000 feet. The article contrasts these with large LTA (Lighter Than Air) vehicles, like the German Hindenberg, and discusses Lockheed's studies in the 1970s for large, remotely piloted LTA vehicles. Intriguingly, reports of triangular UFOs in Georgia have led to speculation about secret LTA craft being tested at Lockheed-Martin's Marietta facility.

The article also references Nick Pope, formerly of the UK Ministry of Defence, who suggested black triangles have extraterrestrial origins. However, it posits that Pope may have fronted a disinformation program to divert attention from a black budget aviation program. The BBC's alleged "D-Noticing" of reports on flying triangles is also mentioned, suggesting a media clampdown on the topic.

Night Stalkers

This section explores the potential applications of experimental LTA craft, including surveillance, electronic eavesdropping, and data relay. These platforms could serve as high-altitude air defence radar systems, potentially replacing AWACS aircraft and offering longer station times. The article suggests that such craft could be significantly more capable than existing ground-based systems and cost-effective compared to AWACS or JSTARS aircraft. They might also be equipped with infrared detectors to track tactical ballistic missiles and potentially carry directed energy weapons.

The propulsion for these mystery triangles is discussed, with ionic airflow propulsion being a strong candidate, offering significant gains over conventional technologies. This propulsion method is linked to the triangular shape of the craft. The article notes that ionic propulsion has been around for decades, citing Major Alexander P. De Seversky's 1959 US patent. Despite initial hopes, investment issues reportedly halted Electronatom Inc.'s development, but other aerospace contractors continued similar research.

Lightships

This part of the magazine introduces Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) as another exotic propulsion system for LTA designs, under development since 1959. MHD accelerates airflow to produce thrust and has been tested for submarine propulsion. Aviation applications face challenges due to the low conductivity of atmospheric gases and the need for powerful magnetic containment. A further development, the magnetoplasmadynamic (MPD) engine, is being developed by NASA for deep space applications. Professor Leik Myrabo of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is a leading figure in MHD research, working on USAF and NASA funded projects, including plans for an MHD-propelled spacecraft called the "Lightship."

The article concludes by stating that the numerous sightings of black triangles suggest they are real experimental aircraft operated by the USAF, US Navy, and possibly the RAF or British Army.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SD magazine revolve around advanced and unconventional propulsion systems, particularly electrogravitics and ionic airflow. There is a strong focus on secret military projects, both historical and contemporary, involving advanced aircraft designs like discplanes and flying triangles. The magazine appears to adopt a stance of exploring these often-controversial topics with a degree of open-mindedness, presenting research and speculation while acknowledging skepticism and potential disinformation. The editorial tone suggests an interest in pushing the boundaries of known science and technology, particularly in the realm of aerospace and unexplained phenomena.

Title: STRANGE DAZE
Issue: 10
Volume: 1
Issue Date: September 2000
Publisher: STRANGE DAZE
Country: UK
Cover Headline: tales from the Arabian Night

This issue of STRANGE DAZE delves into advanced aerospace concepts and unexplained aerial phenomena, featuring articles on potential military technologies and a detailed account of a 1963 UFO encounter.

Advanced Propulsion and Anti-Gravity

The issue begins by exploring theoretical concepts for advanced propulsion, including the use of microwave beams from orbital powersats to create plasma and an 'air spike' for hypersonic flight. It discusses the potential of Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) and the development of 'black domain' technologies for future military applications. The article "DELTA DELIBERATIONS" touches upon the evolution of the delta aircraft design and its potential link to field effect propulsion studies, noting the prevalence of sightings of 'black triangles' operated by various air forces.

A significant portion is dedicated to the concept of anti-gravity. It highlights the potential revolutionary impact of such technology on power production, transport, and space exploration. The article recounts the claims of various inventors and focuses on the experiments of Russian scientist Eugene Podkletnov, who in 1996, published a paper claiming to have discovered a method to shield objects from gravity using superconductors. This research, initially funded by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, faced challenges with reproducibility and withdrawal of the paper, though Podkletnov reportedly continued his superconductor research.

The Arabian Night Encounter

The cover story, "tales from the Arabian Night," details an encounter by Flight Lieutenant Mike Hall, RAF, in the Northern Region of Muscat and Oman in 1963. Hall, along with Mr. Arthur Read and another RAE pilot, was on a trip to salvage gear from a shipwreck when they decided to bivouac on the coast. During his watch, Hall observed a large, dark, amorphous ring-shaped object hovering silently above the desert plain. He described it as a "bloody great circle in the sky," estimated to be fifty to a hundred feet above the ridge with an apparent diameter of several hundred feet. The object then moved swiftly and silently, climbing to the zenith before fading from sight. Hall's analysis, made years later, suggests the phenomenon might have been a force field surrounding an object, with its visibility caused by an abrupt change in temperature or a magnetic effect dissipating.

Identifying UFOs as Satellites: The NOSS Program

Another section, "TURNING UFOS," investigates the possibility that many reported UFO sightings are actually misidentified artificial satellites. The article discusses the European Space Agency's 'Cluster' mission and reports of triangular formations of lights seen during meteor showers. It highlights the "NOSS Trio" of satellites, part of the US Navy's spaceborne electronic intelligence system (ELINT), designed for wide area ocean surveillance. These satellites, code-named Parcae, were used to track military ships by analyzing communication and navigation signals. The article notes that the US Government had denied knowledge of these satellites until 1996. It explains that NOSS satellites fly in formation, which can appear as a triangle or a straight line due to their orbital mechanics. A photograph of classified American NOSS satellites passing over Britain, taken by Bill Rose, is included. The article suggests that misidentification of these satellites, along with a lack of awareness of their existence and capabilities, contributes to the UFO phenomenon.

Book Review: Ancient Earth Mysteries

"The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Ancient Earth Mysteries" by Paul Devereux is reviewed. The book is described as a well-researched reference source focusing on strange phenomena and ancient sites, emphasizing the importance of conceptual stock-taking and re-ordering understanding.

Poem: An Unknown World

The issue concludes with a poem titled "AN UNKNOWN WORLD" by Dane Jon, aged thirteen. The poem offers a descriptive and imaginative portrayal of space, planets, and the vastness of the universe, reflecting on desolation, beauty, and the unknown.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of STRANGE DAZE consistently explores the intersection of cutting-edge technology, unexplained phenomena, and the potential for future advancements. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting scientific theories, eyewitness accounts, and investigative analysis without definitive conclusions, encouraging readers to consider alternative explanations for aerial sightings and technological possibilities. The magazine seems to advocate for a critical examination of reported phenomena, distinguishing between genuine mysteries and potential misidentifications, while also acknowledging the existence of advanced, possibly hidden, technologies.

This issue of UFO Magazine delves into advanced technological and scientific concepts, ranging from military satellite systems to theoretical physics and the future of space exploration. It features articles on ELINT satellites, NASA's ambitious propulsion physics program, and the intriguing possibilities of interstellar travel.

ELINT Satellites and Over-the-Horizon Targeting

The issue begins by explaining the U.S. Navy's 'White Cloud' ELINT System, detailing how three satellites work in tandem to identify and pinpoint radio emitters. Major A. Andronov's explanation highlights the system's ability to determine the precise co-ordinates of ships, enabling over-the-horizon targeting for weapons systems like Tomahawk cruise missiles. This information is relayed not only to Navy ships but also to various land stations globally. The article also touches upon a reader's query about satellites orbiting in symmetrical formations, referencing a claim about "three top secret DoD satellites" in a triangular formation, and questions whether NOSS satellites could account for early sightings.

NASA's Breakthrough Propulsion Physics Programme

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to NASA's Breakthrough Propulsion Physics (BPP) programme, aimed at overcoming the limitations imposed by Einstein's theory of relativity on space travel. Captain Tim Lawrence of the USAF outlines the program's history, budget, and scientific approach. The core challenge is the immense energy required to achieve speeds approaching light speed, making interstellar journeys prohibitively expensive with current technology. NASA is exploring radical new directions, seeking ways to reduce or eliminate propellant mass and increase speed and energy efficiency. The program involves bringing together physicists and propulsion experts to develop experimental projects.

Key Experiments and Concepts

Several experiments within the BPP are highlighted:

• Transient Inertia Effect: Based on Clyde Woodward's observations, this experiment involves changing the energy density within a spinning capacitor to generate a force, potentially leading to propellant-less drives.
• Torsion Effect: This experiment aims to impart motion to an object and generate thrust by sending a charge through it.
• Casimir Effect: This experiment explores harnessing energy from space-time itself. Quantum physics suggests that at the subatomic level, energy is constantly borrowed and returned. The Casimir effect, involving two closely placed metal plates, can create zones of positive and negative energy density, potentially leading to free energy devices or even wormholes.
• Gyroscopic Effects: The fourth experiment investigates a force generated by a pendulum or object swung between a superconductor and an electromagnet.
• Tachyons: The fifth experiment involves using a laser to look for superluminary particles (tachyons), which are theorized to be released during matter-antimatter annihilation and travel faster than light.

Funding and Challenges

The BPP operates on a tight budget of $658,000, with most work done voluntarily by scientists and managers. The program faced scrutiny and criticism, with some suggesting it was a waste of taxpayer money. Lawrence emphasizes the need for verifiable, cheap experimental projects that fit NASA's 'better, faster, cheaper' philosophy. The program is set to conclude next year unless renewed.

Wormholes and Theoretical Physics

Research into wormholes is also discussed, with Sergei Krasnikov from St. Petersburg University working on disproving their existence but instead finding evidence suggesting they do exist. However, current theories indicate that creating and traversing these wormholes would require immense energy (10^36 watts) and their length is limited, making them impractical for interstellar travel in the near future. The article also mentions the modification of Alcubierre's warp drive equations by Japanese physicists.

Other Research and Websites

Two websites are provided for the NASA BPP program, one focusing on the US military's involvement and the other on the main BPP site. The article also notes that Lawrence and Millis have their own websites and email addresses for contact.

Earth Mysteries and Alfred Watkins

Another section introduces the concept of "Earth Mysteries," a term that emerged in the 1960s. It traces the roots of this field to Alfred Watkins, born in 1855, who noticed that ancient sites in Hereford lay on a straight line. His ideas, published in "The Old Straight Track" in 1925, proposed a system of 'leys' based on ancient trackways, which met with both criticism and interest.

Human Genome and Ethical Implications

The magazine also touches upon scientific advances in mapping the human genome. Princeton physicist Freeman Dyson expresses concerns that the open market trafficking of human genes could lead to the creation of new human species, divided by wealth and genetic enhancement, potentially creating a society of 'masters and slaves'. He advocates for government regulation of genetic research and sales, emphasizing that the free market should not extend to human genes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores cutting-edge scientific research and theoretical possibilities, often pushing the boundaries of current understanding. There is a clear interest in unconventional physics, space exploration, and the potential for future technological breakthroughs. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry into these complex subjects, while also acknowledging the practical challenges, funding issues, and ethical considerations involved. The magazine encourages exploration of new ideas, even those that might seem speculative, by providing information on research programs and theoretical concepts.

This issue of Strange Daze, dated May 2000, features a cover story titled 'ICAN WAVE' by Jenny Randles, focusing on UFO activity and related phenomena. The magazine also includes a review of the Sauchie poltergeist event and a section on book bargains and new stock.

The 'Mexican Wave' and UFO Activity

Jenny Randles discusses the phenomenon of 'waves' and 'window areas' in UFO activity, explaining that waves are periods of heightened sightings, while window areas have consistently higher levels of activity. She contrasts the media-hyped 'Mexican Wave' with more scientifically studied cases like those in the Hessdalen valley, Norway. Randles argues that the Mexican Wave, particularly the 1991 eclipse event and a 1997 video, is likely a misidentification of high-altitude weather balloons or potential hoaxes, rather than evidence of extraterrestrial craft. She attributes the surge in footage to the increased availability of camcorders and media promotion, suggesting that the public often prefers sensational stories over sober reality.

Randles also touches upon the history of Earth Mysteries, mentioning early pioneers like Tony Wedd and the formation of groups like The Straight Track Club and The Star Fellowship. She highlights the broadening of the subject in the 1970s to include alignments, Earth Energies, ancient sites, and folklore, which can lead to phenomena like earth lights and ghosts.

The Sauchie Poltergeist Event

The issue includes a detailed account of the Sauchie poltergeist event, Scotland's most famous case, investigated by Malcolm Robinson. The event, which occurred in November 1960, involved 11-year-old Virginia Campbell. The article recounts strange occurrences such as furniture moving, doors opening and closing, and Mrs. Campbell being pushed and witnessing blankets and sheets rising and falling. The local newspaper, The Alloa Journal, reported on the case, and the village was subsequently swamped with reporters. The Secretary of the Alloa Spiritualist Church, Mr. James Henderson, suggested the girl had unusual psychic qualities.

Book Bargains and New Stock

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a catalog of books available for purchase, categorized into 'Softback Bargains', 'Larger Softback Bargains', 'Hardback Bargains', 'New Softcover Additions', and 'New Hardback Additions'. These listings include titles related to psychics, UFOs, ancient mysteries, folklore, and paranormal research, with prices and descriptions. The magazine also lists recent issues of 'ANIMALS & MEN', 'NEXUS UK', 'SD-Strange Daze', and 'TEMS NEWS', as well as a CD-ROM on Tony Wedd.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO phenomena, particularly the 'Mexican Wave' and its analysis, and the exploration of paranormal events like the Sauchie poltergeist case. There is a strong emphasis on critical analysis of evidence, distinguishing between genuine phenomena and misidentifications or hoaxes, as exemplified by Jenny Randles' approach. The editorial stance appears to favor a rational and evidence-based investigation of these subjects, while acknowledging the public's fascination with sensational stories. The inclusion of book sales suggests a commitment to providing resources for further research into these topics.

This issue of Enigmas magazine, volume 1, issue 19, dated December 1960, focuses on two primary areas: the baffling poltergeist activity surrounding a young girl named Virginia Campbell, and the potential for misidentification of advanced satellite technology as UFOs. The magazine features investigative articles, interviews, and personal reflections on these phenomena.

The Virginia Campbell Poltergeist Case

The article details the disturbing events experienced by Virginia Campbell in Sauchie, Scotland. Dr. Nisbet, who attended Virginia, stated that the child was not responsible and that an 'outside agent' was responsible for the phenomena, which included Virginia being hysterical. Mild tranquilizers were administered, but the phenomena continued. The case gained significant media attention, with the Alloa Advertiser and Alloa Journal reporting on the events. Doctors used tape recordings of sounds, including a child's voice screaming 'Mummy, mummy' when a linen basket lid began to open. Reverend Mr. MacDonald suggested the phenomena might be caused by 'lower forms of intelligence'.

Strange events followed Virginia even when she was moved to a different house and at school. Her teacher, Mrs. Margaret Davidson (formerly Miss Margaret Stewart), recounts Virginia as a shy, withdrawn but pleasant girl. The teacher describes several incidents, including Virginia's desk lid rising and falling, and a large table vibrating and rising off the floor. Objects, including a blackboard pointer, would move away from Virginia. These events seemed to occur on a twenty-eight-day cycle. Classmates were supportive, with one even creating a diversion to help Virginia escape press attention. Mr. James Carruthers, a witness, describes seeing Virginia's bed covers ripple as if something was moving beneath them, and a pillow taking the shape of a head. He also reported strange knocking, banging, and sawing noises. During a Church of Scotland ceremony, these noises intensified.

Mr. Carruthers offers a theory that the events might be due to suppressed emotion stemming from a traumatic environmental shift, rather than ghosts or spirits. He also recalls seeing a diary entry about marks appearing and disappearing on Virginia's hands. The author, Malcolm Robinson, notes that while the events are clear and witnessed by reliable people, the cause remains debated – spirits or suppressed emotion.

UFOs and Satellite Technology

Malcolm Robinson also discusses the potential for satellite technology to be mistaken for UFOs. He highlights the development of advanced surveillance satellites like Discoverer II, which can detect and track objects as small as 10cm from orbital heights. The article explains that the US military is refocusing on space-based programs to replace ground-based and air-based radars. The vulnerability of satellites to anti-satellite attacks (ATAS) is mentioned, along with the ease with which satellites can be tracked by amateur astronomers. Robinson points out that some satellite formations, like NOSS travelling in threes and Lacrosse in twos, can create various light patterns (triangular, straight lines) that might be misinterpreted as UFOs.

He expresses frustration that many 'ufologists' seem to prefer the mystery of unsolved cases rather than seeking logical explanations, suggesting that only about 10% of reported sightings remain truly unsolved. Robinson notes that satellites can emit a bright white light with a blue tinge and may flicker due to radar antennas. He questions why amateur astronomers observed these phenomena in 1996, yet it wasn't picked up in UFO literature.

Andy Roberts and the UFO Field

The magazine features an extensive interview with Andy Roberts, a UFO researcher and writer. Roberts' interest in the supernatural began with Dennis Wheatley novels and the 1967 UFO wave. He has written for numerous magazines and edited UFO Brigantia and The Armchair Ufologist, known for his critical and often humorous attacks on other researchers and their theories. He aims to provoke controversy and achieve objective truth.

Roberts works as a Housing Support worker, which he feels has given him insight into the darker side of human nature and the personalities within the UFO field. He describes his approach as direct and prefers to challenge 'stupid claims' mercilessly. He believes that 'science' would laugh at UFOlogy in its current state and that researchers need to produce professional, evidence-backed work. He criticizes the 'corporatisation' of UFOlogy, particularly organizations like BUFORA, which he sees as glorified clubs for believers with petty rules.

Roberts discusses his fascination with beliefs and fears, stating that the interaction between the human mind and the environment is key. He believes that paranormal experiences are psychological phenomena, stemming from the human brain's interpretation of reality, and dismisses the idea of external non-human intelligences or extraterrestrial visitors. He views absolute belief as dangerous, leading to a deferral of responsibility.

Mind Phantoms and Scientific Explanations

An article by Helen Phillips, referencing a Swiss neuroscientist Peter Brugger, suggests that phenomena like ghosts, doppelgängers, and out-of-body experiences can be explained as 'phantom sensations' originating from the brain. Brugger posits that damage to visual areas or parietal lobes can cause people to perceive doubles or feel a presence. Out-of-body experiences might be due to temporary overactivity in temporal lobes. The article concludes that ghosts are 'nothing more but also nothing less than phantoms of the body'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently questions conventional UFOlogy, advocating for rigorous research and critical analysis. There's a strong emphasis on debunking sensational claims and seeking rational explanations, whether psychological, technological, or environmental. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards unsubstantiated paranormal claims, while remaining open to genuine investigation and the pursuit of objective truth. The magazine highlights the importance of understanding the human mind and its role in interpreting experiences, suggesting that many phenomena attributed to external forces may have internal origins.

Title: Strange Daze
Issue: 52
Date: November 2000 (inferred from content)
Publisher: Strange Daze
Country: United Kingdom

This issue of Strange Daze magazine delves into the complexities of UFOlogy, misperception, and the human condition, featuring a mix of interviews, articles, and book reviews. The cover prominently features a quote about the restorative power of nature and the author's evolving perspective on ufologists.

Editorial: Misperception and the UFO Enigma

The editorial section, continued from page one, emphasizes the subjective nature of reality and how the brain interprets experiences. It highlights that while a consensus view of the physical world exists, individual perceptions can differ significantly. The editor, Gloria Heather Dixon, discusses her role as a national investigations co-ordinator for the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA) and observes a rise in claims of alien encounters and contact, linking this increase to media sensationalism. The editorial questions whether these phenomena are truly UFO sightings or other paranormal experiences, noting the lack of comprehensive research before media presentation. It also touches upon the powerful imagery of alien abductions and the impact of media coverage on public perception.

Interview with Andy Roberts

Andy Roberts, a prominent figure in UFOlogy and Fortean studies, shares his insights on the subject. He expresses curiosity about people's beliefs and how perception works, likening the UFO community during 'hot' cases to a 'human circus'. Roberts advocates for rigorous investigation and skepticism, stating that 'the fact that not one 'good' UFO photo has been captured, let alone by more than one witness at once, speaks volumes for the lack of anything solid in the UFO enigma.' He criticizes shoddy research and warns that it will no longer be tolerated. Roberts discusses the misinterpretation of mundane objects as UFOs and the 'Cracoe UFO Photograph' as an example of a case solved through research, which he believes should be learned from to identify 'IFOs' (Identified Flying Objects).

Roberts also touches upon his personal interests, including the music of the Grateful Dead, and his views on the nature of consciousness and reality. He expresses a cynical yet humorous outlook on the UFO community, stating that his criticism is not personal but aimed at exposing pomposity and stupidity. He believes that misperception, in all its forms, is the central mystery of UFOlogy.

Abductions: A Tricky Business

Roberts addresses the controversial topic of alien abductions, questioning whether they happen at all. He points out the lack of physical evidence and photographs of aliens as major objections to the reality of abduction claims. While acknowledging the reality of witnesses' experiences, he suggests that these encounters with non-human intelligences have historically been interpreted in various ways, such as fairies or religious imagery, and that modern interpretations are influenced by the 'alien' narrative. He believes that abductions are too complex for laypeople and are best left to mental health professionals, while also noting their commercial appeal.

Achievements and Personal Philosophy

Roberts highlights his involvement in organizing major UFO conferences in the UK as a significant achievement, bringing together prominent figures in the field. He also mentions participating in 'experiments' to test witness and ufologist responses to certain situations. On a personal level, he expresses affection for simple things like kittens, children, and sunsets, and values his family and friends. He also notes his happiness at having avoided involvement in wars.

Book Reviews

The Coming Global Superstorm by Art Bell and Whitley Strieber

This review by John McDonald discusses a book that predicts a catastrophic climate change event caused by global warming altering the North Atlantic Current. The authors, Art Bell (known for his paranormal talk show) and Whitley Strieber (author of 'Communion'), posit a scenario of massive storms, extreme weather, and a potential new Ice Age. While acknowledging the authors' research across various fields, the reviewer notes the lack of cited sources as a flaw. The book is described as gripping and accessible, offering a glimmer of hope that human ingenuity can overcome the crisis. The review concludes with a four-star rating.

Everything Is Under Control by Robert Anton Wilson

This review covers Robert Anton Wilson's book, which is described as a 'rogues gallery' of conspiracy theories. Wilson, a frequent contributor to Fortean Times, explores topics such as the JFK assassination, CIA mind control, secret societies, and various other conspiracies. The review notes that Wilson often presents a new slant on old material and manages to inject humor into the subject. It also touches upon the CIA's involvement in projects like 'Project Dumbo,' which aimed to create hybrid animals. The reviewer praises the book for its comprehensive coverage of both real and imagined conspiracies but laments the lack of an index. It receives a four-star rating.

Events & Information

This section provides a comprehensive listing of upcoming events and organizations related to UFO research and paranormal investigations in the UK. It includes details of BUFORA lectures, contact information for UFOIN (UFO Investigations Network), Magonia Magazine, and various regional UFO and paranormal research groups across the UK. There is also a 'WANTED' section for back issues of 'Flying Saucer Review'.

Cynthia Hind Remembered

This section is a tribute to Cynthia Hind, a ufologist who passed away on August 21st, 2000. Philip Mantle shares his memories of Hind, describing her as an eloquent, humorous, and determined researcher with an open mind but a 'nuts-and-bolts' approach to UFOs. Her work in Africa and her interviews with tribes, including cannibals, are highlighted. The piece emphasizes her significant contribution to UFO research and her warm personality.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around skepticism, the critical examination of evidence in UFOlogy, and the role of misperception in interpreting anomalous phenomena. The magazine appears to advocate for a more rigorous, evidence-based approach to the subject, challenging unsubstantiated claims and highlighting mundane explanations for alleged UFO sightings. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between genuine unexplained phenomena and sensationalized or hoaxes. The editorial stance leans towards a critical and analytical perspective, encouraging readers to question and research rather than blindly accept extraordinary claims. The influence of media and the psychological aspects of belief are also recurring points of discussion.