Strange Daze - number 8

Magazine Overview

Title: STRANGE DAZE
Issue: Number 8
Date: February 1996
Publisher: NUFORI (Northern UFO Research & Investigation)
Country: England
Price: £1.00

This issue of Strange Daze, a journal focused on UFOlogy and extraordinary experiences, is published by NUFORI. The cover features a prominent 'X' symbol with the tagline "The truth is out there?" and "Welcome to the world of real UFOlogy," explicitly stating it contains no articles on the TV series 'X-Files'. The magazine is related to the number 23.

Contents and Articles

The table of contents on page 2 lists a variety of articles and features:

• Editorial: "UFOs are alien spaceships." This piece by Dave Newton questions the common assertion that UFOs are alien spaceships, exploring various interpretations and the difficulty in defining what constitutes an alien spaceship or even a UFO, referencing experts like Arnold Wolfendale and J. Allen Hynek. It critiques the reliance on experts and the ongoing debate about the nature of UFOs.
• News: Reports on regional lectures in Newcastle by BUFORA and Quest International, featuring speakers like Philip Mantle, Malcolm Robinson, Tony Dodd, Graham Birdsall, and Ananda Sirisena. It also mentions a BUFORA conference on alien abductions in Sheffield.
• Roswell Footage Latest: Discusses the ongoing debate about the authenticity of the alleged alien autopsy footage, mentioning the cameraman 'Jack Barnett' and the film's ownership by German collector Volker Spielberg, with Ray Santilli acting as agent.
• New Planet Discovered: Reports on the discovery of a new planet by astronomers Michel Mayor and Didier Queloz using the Haute-Provence Observatory in France.
• Possible Discovery of the Holy Grail: Details Dr. Graham Phillips' research tracing a potential Holy Grail to Rugby, Warwickshire.
• Around the World: Notes increased UFO sightings in Brazil's Pantanal and a town council's plan to create a UFO landing area. It also mentions crowds gathering in Malaysia hoping to see a spaceship.
• The Editor's Bookcase: A humorous piece where the editor denies rumours about using magazine profits for a bookcase extension, stating profits are reinvested into UFOlogy.
• Other Space Debris: Mentions the presence of 'Greys' in the sci-fi comic 2000AD and the movie 'Strange Days'.
• Roswell the Movie, Roswell the coffee mug, and now Roswell the kit: Notes the release of a UFO kit based on Roswell eyewitness accounts.
• Club Alien: Describes a UFO-themed techno-rave disco in London.
• The Feud Court: This section details a dispute involving Ken Phillips, formerly of UFO Times, and BUFORA. Phillips had accused BUFORA of cover-up and ineptitude. The article notes an apology from Phillips regarding missing films and files, but questions remain about BUFORA's case files and specific films. It also addresses a review of Strange Daze 7 by Jenny Randles, who criticized the magazine's handling of the BUFORA debate and the Santilli footage.
• Sightings from the North East and Around Britain by Gloria Dixon: This article discusses the upsurge in UFO sightings in 1995, attributing it partly to extensive media coverage following the Roswell footage. It highlights the increased public awareness and reporting of sightings. A specific incident is detailed: on October 17, 1995, near Oswestry, a witness reported seeing a round, spinning object with a cloud around it hovering above her car. Another incident on October 18, 1995, near Oswestry, involved witnesses reporting bright white lights, later identified as a laser display from a nightclub.

Key Persons and Organizations

The magazine mentions several key individuals, including Dave Newton (Editor), G.H. Dixon (Investigations Coordinator), J.A. Lee, C.C. Jackson, and Guano Ghyno. It also references prominent figures in UFOlogy and related fields such as Arnold Wolfendale, J. Allen Hynek, Robert Anton Wilson, Philip Mantle, and astronomers Michel Mayor and Didier Queloz. Organizations like NUFORI and BUFORA are central to the discussions, particularly concerning their activities, publications, and internal disputes.

Themes and Stance

The primary theme is UFOlogy, encompassing sightings, investigations, and the theoretical aspects of unidentified flying objects. The magazine adopts a critical and questioning stance, particularly in the editorial, challenging conventional beliefs about UFOs and alien spaceships. It also engages with controversies within the UFO community, such as the BUFORA disputes and the Roswell footage debate. The publication appears to be a platform for reporting on UFO phenomena, research, and related cultural and scientific news, with a particular focus on the UK.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Strange Daze consistently explores the unexplained and the fringes of conventional understanding, with a strong emphasis on UFO phenomena. The editorial stance, as exemplified by Dave Newton's piece, is one of critical inquiry rather than blind acceptance. The magazine encourages readers to question definitions and evidence, highlighting the complexities and ambiguities within UFOlogy. There's a recurring engagement with internal UFO community politics, particularly the dynamics between organizations like BUFORA and NUFORI, and debates over research methodologies and evidence presentation. The magazine also touches upon broader scientific discoveries and cultural references that intersect with UFO themes, demonstrating a wide-ranging interest in the subject matter. The connection to the number 23 is presented as a unifying, albeit unexplained, element across all content.

Title: Strange Daze
Issue: 18
Volume: 3
Date: May/June 1995
Publisher: Strange Daze
Price: £2.50
Cover Headline: UFO's - The Reality

This issue of Strange Daze focuses on UFO sightings, mutilations, and the scientific search for extraterrestrial intelligence (ETI).

Article: IA's Sighting on 17th October

The article discusses a sighting by 'IA' on October 17th, suggesting a laser light display from a nightclub as a plausible explanation. It touches upon the witness's feelings of confusion and apprehension when encountering the unknown. The report notes similar feelings between IA and another witness who reported a sighting on October 18th.

Case Report: Alston Camping Incident (June 1995)

Investigator Gloria Dixon reports on an event experienced by Michael and Helen M. and their children while camping near Alston, Cumbria. On a pitch-black night, they observed dozens of small balls of light moving erratically for about 30 seconds. Following this, they witnessed a large light, approximately 150 meters in length, descend from a fell and spread across the field like a torch, appearing to come from underneath the ground. Michael, familiar with agricultural lighting, was adamant it was not a helicopter. This light was observed for about 20 seconds.

Michael later described a pulsating light composed of small circles near the campfire, which made him apprehensive. He gathered his family into a tent and stayed awake. The following day, checks with the local police and RAF base yielded no other reports. The area is noted for unusual activity and UFO sightings.

Case Report: Victoria Gray (June 1992)

Victoria Gray (pseudonym) reported several events, including one in June 1992. While camping, she saw a bright light shining through fog and observed three small, pale children and an adult in dark clothing in her garden. She heard chattering from the children and felt they might try to climb to her window using a rope. She did not feel frightened but felt the window was closed. She returned to bed and did not wake her husband.

Later, a bright light and a silhouette with 'no eyes' (huge, pale, without pupils) emerged through her curtains into her room, terrifying her. She remembers nothing after this but felt apprehensive the next day, developing a fear of the dark. She experienced impressions of being led along a tunnel by two small entities and being in a white room with someone at a panel. These experiences were intense and upsetting, but a three-year college course helped her cope.

Victoria also recalled a 'vivid dream' at age 24 where a woman beckoned her, causing her to become afraid of everything and move house. At age ten, she had another dream-like experience with a girl at her bedside. At age five, she vividly recalls strange lights in a hallway in Southern England.

Her daughter also suffered from night terrors, described as 'grey monster' arms coming through her window. Victoria has been married twice and has four children.

Accompanying the report are drawings by Victoria Gray depicting a tunnel with lights and a very bright white light, and another showing a figure at a panel with a white opaque sphere, labeled as 'out of proportion' and 'smaller'.

Photoanalysis: Peter Nelson's UFO Photograph (August 1994)

Jeff Sainio, Staff Photoanalyst for MUFON, analyzed three photographs taken by Peter Nelson in Bellingham, Northumberland. One photo shows a UFO near the moon. Sainio's analysis suggests the UFO's size is approximately 1 degree high and 1 1/2 degree wide. He calculated its potential length based on altitude, noting that if it were a commercial airliner, it would be audible. The UFO's color ratio (red:green:blue) is inconsistent with a jet engine. While a rocket might have a similar color, the shape and witness testimony are inconsistent. Sainio concludes that the photo could be faked, but if sincere, it is not a conventional object. The UFO remains unidentified.

Mutilation Update: Cattle and Sheep

Cattle Mutilation from Camlough, County Armagh: Miles Johnston of the Irish UFO Research Centre reported an unusual light in the sky and a cattle mutilation. The carcass showed unpleasant injuries around the rectum and flesh removed from the head and stomach, with claims of vital organs being removed. The photographer wishes to remain anonymous. Investigations are ongoing.

Edinburgh Sheep Mutilation: A photograph of a mutilated sheep discovered near Edinburgh Airport shows the right ear and eye missing, and a large square hole under the neck with straight edges. Investigations by Ron Halliday and Tony Dodd have yielded no conclusive results. David Colman described it as a '50/50 case' with little clue about the cause of death.

Article: Extraterrestrial Intelligence: An Astronomer's Perspective

Dr. Tim Kendal discusses the scientific perspective on extraterrestrial intelligence (ETI). He notes that while the topic invites ridicule, it is important to discuss arguments rooted in astronomy. He defines life as 'life as we know it' (carbon-based) and focuses on the search for Earthlike planets. He references Frank Drake's Project Ozma and the requirements for ETI, including a sunlike parent star. Kendal explains that stars not on the main sequence or in binary systems are less likely to host life. He highlights that planetary systems are common, as evidenced by infrared observations and stellar 'wobbles'. While technology is not yet sufficient to directly resolve Earthlike planets, searching for gravitational effects is promising. He concludes that Earthlike planets are likely common throughout the galaxy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, with a focus on UFO sightings, alleged alien encounters, and mysterious mutilations. There is an effort to present witness accounts, investigator findings, and scientific perspectives, such as the article on ETI. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, acknowledging skepticism while presenting evidence and theories. The recurring theme is the exploration of the unknown and the potential for phenomena beyond conventional understanding.

This issue of UFO Magazine, dated October 1995, delves into various aspects of extraterrestrial intelligence (ETI), UFO phenomena, and the theoretical possibilities of interstellar travel. The content is primarily analytical and speculative, drawing on scientific principles, philosophical arguments, and recent events within the UFO community.

The Nature and Detection of ETI

The magazine begins by discussing the scientific methods used to detect planets and estimate the likelihood of life arising elsewhere in the universe. While astronomy can detect planets, it cannot definitively confirm the existence of ETI. Biologists can estimate the conditions for life, but the emergence of intelligence and technological civilizations remains speculative. The issue highlights that only technological civilizations with radio telescopes would be detectable across interstellar distances. It also considers that ETI might evolve along different evolutionary paths, not necessarily resembling humans, but postulates that technological ETI might share some superficial physical likeness if they evolved through tool use.

The 'Zoo Hypothesis' and ETI Intentions

A significant portion of the magazine explores the 'Zoo Hypothesis,' which suggests that ETI are observing Earth but deliberately remain hidden. The author argues against the idea of overtly hostile ETI, suggesting that any such civilization would likely have destroyed itself long before achieving interstellar travel. Instead, it is proposed that ETI might be indifferent or, at worst, cautiously observing. The text dismisses fears of malevolent ETI as culturally borne, stemming from ancient fears of God and collective guilt. The author also questions the idea of ETI abducting humans, suggesting that if they intended harm, it would have happened already. The possibility that ETI are subtly introducing knowledge of themselves to minimize societal disruption is considered, though this method is seen as potentially increasing public fear.

Philosophical Implications: UFOs and Abduction Phenomena

The issue touches upon the philosophical implications of UFO sightings and abduction phenomena. It suggests that the modern fascination with extraterrestrials can be seen as a continuation of older beliefs in fairies and mythical creatures, filling a need for 'otherness.' The author cautions against tying this need solely to a belief in ETI, likening it to an incarceration within organized religion.

Postscript: On the Possibilities of Interstellar Travel

The magazine then shifts to the scientific feasibility of interstellar travel. It reiterates that reaching the nearest sunlike stars would take tens of years even at the speed of light. Einstein's Special Theory of Relativity is cited to explain why material objects cannot reach light speed due to infinite mass and energy requirements. The concept of time dilation and length contraction at speeds approaching light speed is discussed. Beyond conventional travel, the issue explores theoretical possibilities such as wormholes in spacetime, which could offer shortcuts through higher dimensions, and the creation of artificial spacetime curvature (gravitational fields) to achieve instantaneous travel between distant points.

ETI Technology and Solar System Exploration

It is contended that sufficiently advanced ETI may have developed these advanced travel technologies and might use them to investigate our Solar System, given that our Sun is a stable star capable of supporting life-bearing planets. However, it is argued that such advanced ETI would likely have no need for resources from Earth and would avoid revealing themselves to prevent adverse societal effects.

CHANGE AND DECAY: A Tribute and Review

The magazine includes a section titled "CHANGE AND DECAY" by David Sivier, which serves as a tribute to the recently deceased 8th Lord Clancarty (Brinsley Le Poer Trench). Lord Clancarty was known for his interest in UFOs and Earth mysteries, and notably headed the House of Lords All-Party UFO Study Group. The article mentions his views on crop circles and his optimistic outlook on the UFO phenomenon, contrasting with the growing paranoia in the UFO scene. The article also notes the succession of Lord Hill-Norton, a retired Admiral, to a prominent role in UFO advocacy, supporting calls for government information release.

UFO Controversies and European Initiatives

The issue discusses a specific UFO controversy involving a triangular UFO allegedly chased by American F-16 fighters over Belgium. The article mentions the efforts of Derek Sheffield to bring this incident to light, with support from Lord Hill-Norton and former European President Egon Klepsch. It also draws a parallel to the US spy plane 'Aurora' and satellite imagery captured by David Watson. Furthermore, the magazine reports on the EU's proposal for a European Observation Station for UFO Sightings, noting the derision it faced from Eurosceptic press. Arguments in favor of such a station are presented, including the existence of national UFO investigation departments (like France's CNES), the public's right to know, and potential benefits to Earth sciences and public health through the study of geomagnetic anomalies and 'earthlights' hypotheses.

Reviews of UFO Publications

The latter part of the magazine features reviews of several UFO-related publications and magazines. These include "North East UFO Reporters Magazine (NEUFORM)" and "COVER UP No 1" (a newsletter from Lothian Unexplained Phenomena Research). Other recommended publications reviewed are "Phenomenal News," "Encounters," "Fortean Times," "Enigmas," "Magonia," "The Ley Hunter," and "3rd Stone." The reviews provide brief descriptions, pricing, and contact information for these publications.

Roswell Incident and Stealth Aircraft

A brief mention is made of a Channel Four documentary on the Roswell incident, featuring witness Frank Kaufman and his drawings. These drawings are compared to illustrations of the alleged stealth aircraft 'Black Manta TR-3A,' raising questions about the aircraft's origins and potential connection to UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the scientific and philosophical exploration of extraterrestrial intelligence, the analysis of UFO phenomena through various hypotheses (including the 'Zoo Hypothesis'), and the theoretical underpinnings of interstellar travel. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious inquiry, encouraging scientific investigation while remaining skeptical of sensationalism and conspiracy theories. There is an emphasis on rational analysis and the application of scientific principles to understand these complex subjects. The magazine advocates for serious scientific research into UFOs and related phenomena.

This issue of 'bufera' magazine, published by the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA), is primarily a collection of letters, event announcements, and advertisements related to UFOs and abduction phenomena. The content reflects an active interest in these topics within the UK, with a focus on research, witness accounts, and public engagement through lectures and conferences.

Letters to the Editor

The issue opens with a section for letters, directing correspondence to "D.A. Newton" at the NUFORI postal address. Several letters are presented:

Letter from "Joe Publik" (Name withheld)

This letter offers a speculative theory on the "abduction" syndrome, suggesting that aliens are gradually introducing themselves to humanity for "study" or "sexual" contact. The writer believes they have personally experienced both types of contact with non-terrestrial beings. The letter outlines several thoughts:

1. Genetic Study: If the purpose is to ascertain genetic characteristics, there must be a reason for this labor, possibly to check compatibility.
2. Gene Fusion/Appearance: Sexual contact could be a method to make the alien species appear more human, aiding acceptance due to inherent human racism.
3. Human Adaptability: Humans are adaptable, suggesting they might possess something desirable to aliens.
4. Secrecy of Abductees: Those contacted remain silent for fear of ridicule. The writer likens this to studying animals, where disturbance is minimized.

The writer concludes that "they" are up to something and humanity is beginning to realize it. They express a lack of trust in governments and defense ministries, viewing them as deceptive and power-hungry. The writer believes politicians keep people ignorant, fearing the consequences of revealing alternative lifestyles, similar to the impact of the Iron Curtain during the Cold War. The letter ends with a statement that if humanity could properly care for itself, politicians would be obsolete, hence their desire to maintain public ignorance, in a "George Orwell style."

The writer states they are not a messiah but believe they have something beneficial to say. They opine that "they" are preparing for "full" contact, and while some may not like it, humanity must be prepared. The "Cold War" is seen as a tactic by governments and the MOD to stall for time.

Letter from "E.I."

This letter discusses the concept of Elohim and their presence in the Milky Way galaxy, suggesting they had seven bases on Earth in the past, leading to the evolution of great civilizations. The writer points to traces of contact in various mythologies and ancient texts, including Greek mythology, Mahabarata, Vedas, Ramayana, Gilgamesh, Kojiki, Popol Vuh, Chronicle of Akakor, the Book of Enoch, and the Cabala. The letter references Zecharia Sitchin's "Genesis Revisited," suggesting the Tower of Babel was a rocket, and mentions Claude Rael's work. It also recommends "The Only Planet of Choice" by P.V. Schlemmer & P. Jenkins, which allegedly covers 34,000 years of Earth history and explains the connection between crop circles and Egyptian pyramids, as well as the relationship between time, gravity, and planetary vibrations. Additionally, Ann Walker's book "Little One" is recommended for a scientific report on global heat increase and climate disintegration originating from an extraterrestrial source.

Editor's Comment: The editor sarcastically dismisses the claims about the Moon being made of green cheese and UFOs being powered by rubber bands, expressing skepticism.

Letter from M. Therion

This letter poses a question about why a farmer or cows would arrange dung in circles, approximately 1 foot wide and 4 or 5 feet in diameter. The writer mentions having photographs of this phenomenon.

Editor's Comment: The editor invites explanations for this phenomenon, asking readers to write in to the NUFORI postal address, marking envelopes "Scottish Crap Circle Enigma." Copies of photographs are available for a small charge.

Letter from Mr C.D. Player

This letter discusses evolution and life on Earth, emphasizing that no species lives in isolation and that symbiotic relationships are crucial for survival. The writer uses human digestive systems as an example. The core of the argument is that if a new "bug" (microorganism) is introduced to a species, it can be fatal due to a lack of resistance. The writer questions the absence of alien germs among "Greys" who have allegedly traveled from different planets. They ask if any abductees have died or suffered unusual diseases, suggesting that alien plagues should have decimated humanity by now. Conversely, the writer posits that "Greys" might have no resistance to Earth diseases, making the common cold fatal to them. The letter concludes that either the "Greys" are not extraterrestrial, or they are not conducting genetic research as assumed. Instead, their experimentation might be to isolate human resistance to Earth germs, enabling them to inoculate themselves and prepare for a "full scale invasion."

Editor's Comment: The editor notes that, to their knowledge, no abductee has died directly as a result of abduction or from a disease acquired during the experience, calling it an "Interesting point."

Forthcoming Attractions

This section details upcoming events organized by BUFORA:

• January 27th '96: A lecture by Philip Mantle (Author, Broadcaster, International Lecturer, Director of Investigations for BUFORA, co-author of "Without Consent"). He will discuss footage of the Roswell Film, showing footage never before seen in the UK, and discuss abductions, including an in-depth appraisal of Northern Regional cases, accompanied by video and slides. Location: Nixon Hall, Ellison Place. Admission: $3.00 ($2.00 child/OAP/students).
• May 18th '96: A lecture by Malcolm Robinson (Lecturer, Broadcaster, Author, Scotland's Leading UFO and Paranormal Investigator). He will discuss "Scottish Urology" (likely a typo for UFOlogy), including abduction cases and close encounters, with reference to the Bonnybridge Sightings. Location: Ellison Building, Ellison Place. Admission: $3.00 ($2.00 child/OAP/students).
• July 27th: A lecture by Jenny Randles (Britain's Premier Ufologist, Broadcaster, Lecturer, prolific author of 30+ books and publications). The subject is to be announced. Location: Nixon Hall, Ellison Place. Admission: $3.00 ($2.00 child/OAP/students).

All tickets are on a strictly limited basis, and early arrival is advised. Lectures are from 2-5 p.m. unless otherwise stated, with doors opening at 1:15 p.m. Further information is available from the City Information Desk, Newcastle Central Library, and the University of Northumbria at Newcastle, Ellison Place, Newcastle Upon Tyne.

A Day of Abductions Conference

This section announces a one-day conference on "A Day of Abductions" focusing on alien visitation claims. It is organized by the British UFO Research Association and will be held at the Pennine Theatre, Sheffield Hallam University, on Saturday, April 20th, 1996, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. The growth of abduction reports worldwide is noted as colossal. The conference aims to focus on abductee claims and ongoing research. Whitley Strieber, author of "Communion," is invited to speak for the first time in the UK about his experiences, which are described as a turning point in alien abduction awareness. Other speakers will include Philip Mantle, John Spencer, and Mike Wootten. British abductees, including Linda Jones, will also be invited to share their experiences. A wide range of UFO-related material will be on sale at the conference exhibition. Tickets are priced at £15.00 each, with a discounted price of £12.50 for BUFORA members. A booking form is provided for advance ticket orders, to be sent to BUFORA (Abduct) at 1 Woodhall Drive, Batley, West Yorkshire, WF17 7SW, UK. Cheques, postal orders, or international money orders should be payable to BUFORA Ltd.

Special Offers and Advertisements

• X-Tiles Special Offer: A limited number of special "X-Tiles" are available for fans of UFOs and the paranormal. These ceramic wall tiles are hand-decorated with a large marker pen "X" and cost £5.00 each, including postage and packing. Orders are to be sent with payment in "used fivers" to the editorial address, marked "I am X-tremely gullible."
• "Without Consent" Book Advertisement: This advertisement promotes the book "Without Consent: A Comprehensive Survey of Missing-Time and Abduction Phenomena in the UK" by Carl Nagaitis & Philip Mantle. It is described as the first ever British investigation into a mystery that has baffled scientists and laymen for four decades. The book focuses on attributable experiences from the British Isles, with case accounts thoroughly researched, witnesses interviewed and hypnotically regressed, and current theories gathered into one volume. It is advertised at a special discounted price of £12.50 (including p&p), saving £4.49. Orders are to be made payable to Susan Mantle and sent to "Without Consent, 1 Woodhall Drive, Batley, West Yorkshire, WF17 7SW."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are alien abductions, UFO sightings, and the broader paranormal field. There is a strong emphasis on research and investigation, as evidenced by the involvement of BUFORA and its prominent figures like Philip Mantle and Jenny Randles. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious engagement with the subject matter, as shown by the editor's skeptical comments on some letters, particularly the one about the Moon and UFO propulsion. However, the publication of detailed letters and event announcements indicates an openness to exploring these topics and providing a platform for discussion and information sharing within the UFO community. The issue highlights the growing interest in abduction phenomena and the efforts to document and understand these experiences.