SUFOG Newsletter No 107-108

Magazine Overview

SUFOG, Issue Numbers 107 and 108, published in September/October 1999, is a UK-based magazine focusing on UFO research. The cover highlights a "European FT Initiative" to track triangular UFOs across Europe from 1993-1997, and announces the Southampton UFO Group's (SUFOG) activities, including a look at Russian UFOlogy, NASA's flying saucer designs, and crop circle phenomena.

European FT Initiative

The "European FT Initiative" aims to track black triangular-shaped UFOs across Europe between 1993 and 1997. It is an attempt to compile data from UFO research groups in both the United Kingdom and mainland Europe. The project is based on Project FT's database, which contains approximately 7,000 sighting reports, with additional FT reports being sought to expand the database.

SUFOG Group Activities and Conference '99

The newsletter announces that a decision regarding "Conference '99" would be made on September 29th. The editor expresses hope that the conference will proceed and generate funds. Otherwise, the Southampton UFO Group might cease to exist. The newsletter also mentions a video of a lecture by Busty Taylor available for £8.00. Conference '99 is expected to feature a fourth speaker and will include stalls selling crop circle photographs and other items. There is a mention of a potential cafeteria issue.

CICOPS's Response to TNT's KGB UFO Files

James Oberg, a science writer and former NASA engineer, provides a commentary on the TNT special "SECRET KGB UFO FILES." Oberg is highly critical, stating the program misrepresented NASA Space Shuttle SRB footage as Soviet rocket tests and sensationalized the 1908 Tunguska explosion. He dismisses claims of recovered UFO debris by the Energiya corporation as financially improbable. Oberg points out the program's disclaimers stating the material may not be true and was produced solely for entertainment, suggesting the entire series, including a crashed saucer recovery and autopsy, was fabricated.

Soviet UFOlogy Critiqued

Oberg further critiques the program's portrayal of American sources, including a man claiming to have worked for the CIA and an ex-NASA scientist presenting disputed documents about Soviet interest in the Roswell incident. He labels the production a "B" movie for entertainment but an "F" for authenticity.

SOVIET SAUCERS (APRIL 1994) by James Oberg

Oberg revisits the 1967 Soviet UFO flap, where numerous sightings of crescent-shaped craft and fiery phenomena were reported. He discusses the "Gindilis Report" which concluded that natural or manmade stimuli could not explain these events. However, Oberg argues this report was "counterfeit science" used to cover up Moscow's secret development of an illegal space-to-earth nuclear weapon (FOBS - Fractional Orbit Bombardment System). The "UFOs" witnessed were actually Russian missile warheads.

Oberg notes that U.S. intelligence agencies were aware of these tests and were not fooled by the "UFO smokescreen." He criticizes Soviet UFOlogists for embracing these events as alien spacecraft, willing to permit illusion to prosper. He mentions that even after the FOBS program was scrapped and the Soviet regime fell, the "deception" maintained a life of its own, with Zigel revered as the "father of Soviet UFOlogy."

Petrozavodsk Incident

Oberg details the 1977 Petrozavodsk incident, where a "huge star" appeared to send shafts of light and resembled a jellyfish. This event, reported by local correspondent Nikolay Milov, led to rumors of telepathic messages and stalled cars. Soviet UFO enthusiasts, including Aleksandr Kazantsev and Dr. Vladimir Azhazha, interpreted it as a UFO. However, Oberg reveals it was a routine rocket launch from the Plesetsk military space centre, whose contrails were backlit by the dawn sun.

Moscow Incident and General Critiques

In 1981, another rocket launch from Plesetsk caused a similar panic in Moscow, with reports of UFOs attacking aircraft and vehicles. Oberg asserts that secret Russian rocket launches have consistently generated "classic UFO perceptions" due to imaginative witnesses and careless interviewers. He criticizes Russian UFO literature for its "fantastic tales and an utter lack of research into possible explanations," noting the common phrase "I have no doubts." He contrasts this with the cautious skepticism of Western investigators.

Oberg also addresses the tendency to portray historical figures as "secret UFO believers," citing inconsistent interviews in the magazine AURA-Z regarding Sergey Korolev's involvement with UFO studies.

Vladimir Azhazha's Claims

Oberg discusses Vladimir Azhazha, a prominent Russian UFO expert, who he claims is an enthusiast of "UFO miracle stories." Azhazha's past claims include a UFO attack on the Apollo 13 capsule, which he alleged was carrying a bomb. Oberg refutes this, stating the 1970 explosion was due to a hardware malfunction. Azhazha later admitted his "E.T. hypothesis" was based on youthful intoxication. Oberg also criticizes Azhazha's book featuring forged photographs and fabricated "radio conversations" related to the Apollo 13 mission. Furthermore, Azhazha's claim of 5,000 Russians abducted by UFOs is described as a nonsensical calculation based on missing persons data.

The Challenge of UFO Investigation

Oberg concludes that while the UFO problem is fascinating, weeding out genuine UFOs from "IFOs" (identified flying objects) is a difficult task. He suggests Russian UFOlogists have not yet begun to face this challenge, a sentiment echoed by Antonio Huneeus.

SUFOG Contact Corner and Subscription Details

This section lists contact information for various UFO research groups across the UK and Ireland, including Cornwall UFO Research Group, London UFO Studies, UFO Monitors East Kent, British Flying Saucer Bureau, Phenomenon Research Association, Jersey UFO Research, Malcolm Robinson (SPI England), and UPRI (Ireland). It also provides details for the Southampton UFO Group's newsletter subscription, costing £5 per year for a bi-monthly publication of at least 10 double-sided A4 pages.

Totton Researchers of UFology Theory and History (TRUTH)

This section promotes a college-based UFO research course offered by Totton College, located in Southampton.

Late Newsletter

The editor apologizes for the newsletter being late due to personal illness and expresses a commitment to getting back on track.

Crop Circles

This section presents a fictionalized dialogue between "Scully" and "Mulder" (from The X-Files) discussing crop circles in Wiltshire, England. Mulder is enthusiastic about the "incontrovertible evidence" of extraterrestrial life, while Scully is skeptical. The dialogue touches on theories involving extraterrestrials, natural phenomena, and pranksters. It mentions "Rockerfeller" funding an investigation and a "Test Valley, Hampshire" engineer with a database of over 10,000 crop circles. The dialogue concludes with Mulder suspecting a "gigantic government conspiracy."

NASA Designs Flying Saucer

An article from The Sunday Times (25.4.99) reports that NASA is designing a flying saucer. The design benefits from an aerodynamic shape, with successful tests on a 25g craft and a larger prototype planned. The concept, explored by Professor Leik Myrabo, involves a laser beam propulsion system and an onboard hydrogen fuel source to reduce weight. The craft is expected to reach speeds of over five times the speed of sound. A more futuristic design could involve microwave power transmission from an orbiting satellite. NASA dismisses conspiracy theories linking these designs to captured alien craft, stating they are "certainly identifiable."

Conference '99 Full Report

The next edition will feature a full report on Conference '99, including views from group members. The report indicates that while expenses were covered, the group lost £150.00 of its own funds.

SUFOG AGM 5th September 1999

The minutes of the SUFOG AGM reveal dissatisfaction from the editor regarding the lack of support from group members. The editor lists several potential consequences if the group does not receive more support, including the group folding, meetings becoming private, membership cards becoming invalid, newsletter price increases, cessation of invited speakers and lectures, and limited involvement in skywatches and outside events. The editor expresses being "pd off" with the lack of support and notes that only 23 tickets had been sold for Conference '99, far short of the 80 needed.

SUFOG Diary - 1999

Details are provided for new bi-monthly group meetings at the Netley CIU Club in Southampton, held from 7:30 PM to 10 PM, with a bar. Attendees need to provide their names seven days in advance. There is a £2 per person charge.

Lucky Numbers

A promotion for a Christmas draw is announced, offering participants the chance to win prizes including UFO magazine subscriptions and a main prize worth around £50. Participants can purchase numbers for £1 each.

Ye Olde Newspaper Reviews by Ernie Sears Esq.

This section reviews recent newspaper articles related to UFOs:

• Daily Telegraph (August 6th): A French committee of retired generals and civil servants urged defense policy modifications regarding the threat of aliens.
• Daily Express (August 18th): Over a million people signed up for the SETI home screen saver to search for intelligent life, but no "alien signatures" have been detected.
• Daily Express (August 20th): An article by Nick Redfern concerns the release of a CIA report on UFO investigations, which, contrary to its intent, suggests a conspiracy. Former CIA director George Bush is quoted as saying, "you don't know the half of it."
• Daily Telegraph (August 28th): Peter Gersten, director of Citizens Against UFO Secrecy (CAUSE), filed a lawsuit against the US government for refusing to release UFO documents. Gersten believes ETs are trying to contact us through crop circles.
• Daily Telegraph (September 1st): An item on hackers infiltrating US military computers, including reports of anti-gravity machines and UFOs, is discussed. The hacker was arrested but freed due to the case's complexity.
• Daily Telegraph (mid-September): Europe's biggest UFO Conference at Leeds University featured Dr. Roger Leir discussing surgically removed implants.
• The Daily Mail (September 15th): Dr. Jacqueline Mitton, a UFO expert, suggested Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting was likely high-flying geese, not flying saucers. The reviewer refutes this, noting geese cannot travel at such speeds and Arnold stated they were not geese.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include a critical examination of UFOlogy, particularly Russian UFOlogy, emphasizing skepticism and the debunking of sensational claims. There's a strong focus on identifying prosaic explanations for sightings, such as military tests and misidentifications. The magazine also touches upon technological advancements in aerospace, crop circles, and the persistent nature of conspiracy theories. The editorial stance is one of critical inquiry, aiming to separate fact from fiction, while also expressing frustration with a perceived lack of support for the SUFOG group itself.

Title: SUFOG
Issue: 11
Volume: 11
Date: September 1999
Publisher: Southampton UFO Group
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

This issue of SUFOG, a publication by the Southampton UFO Group, offers a comprehensive look at UFO phenomena, media coverage, and related topics, with a significant focus on the psychological and physiological aspects of alleged encounters.

Media Coverage of UFOs

The magazine highlights recent media attention to UFOs, particularly from The Daily Mail. The publication notes a series of articles and letters discussing UFO sightings, with some attributing them to mundane explanations like geese, while others defend the reality of the phenomena. A "for or against" panel in The Daily Mail featured contributions from various individuals, including Dennis Plunkett of the British Flying Saucer Bureau, who argued against the 'secret weapon' assertion, and Darren Badrock, who cited trained pilots' encounters with advanced craft. Conversely, R. Canning argued for a lack of solid evidence for extraterrestrial life. A. Hathaway criticized Dr. Jacqueline Mitton's 'expert' explanations, pointing to numerous UFO reports that defy logical explanation. Peter Reynolds questioned the point of interstellar travel for beings capable of creating crop circles.

The Sunday Telegraph is also mentioned for an article in its Family Finance Section that discussed the Freedom of Information Act, with quotes suggesting the government might withhold information of public interest, implying a potential lack of transparency regarding UFOs.

The Phenomenon of Sleep Paralysis

A substantial portion of the magazine is dedicated to the topic of sleep paralysis, presented as a potential explanation for many reports of alien abduction and supernatural experiences. An article titled "When aliens steal our sleep" by Nicholas D. Kristof (The New York Times) is featured, discussing how sleep paralysis, known as 'Kanasibari' in Japan and 'old hag' in Newfoundland, can induce terrifying hallucinations of being attacked or transported.

Jean-Christophe Terrillon, a Canadian physicist, describes experiencing sleep paralysis with sensations of an evil presence and intense pressure. Kazuhiko Fukuda, a psychology professor, suggests that sleep paralysis may explain claims of witchcraft and alien abduction. Research indicates that about half of all people have experienced it at least once, with higher rates in Newfoundland (over 60%).

The article explains that sleep paralysis occurs when the body is in REM sleep while the brain is awake or semi-awake. It can involve a sensed presence, strange sounds, shadowy figures, immobility, and pressure. These sensations are compatible with both ancient interpretations of demonic or witch assaults and modern alien abduction scenarios, including feelings of floating and flying.

While some scholars, like John E. Mack, a defender of abduction claims, argue that sleep paralysis does not fit all abduction evidence (citing remote locations, daylight encounters, and alert witnesses), the research suggests a growing number of scholars believe it can explain many such reports. The article notes that people who report alien abductions may be more fantasy-prone but also possess slightly higher intelligence. Exposure to movies or books about aliens can also increase the likelihood of reporting such experiences.

Magazine Reviews

Ernie Sears provides reviews of several UFO and paranormal publications:

• UFO Magazine: Praised for its superb product and editorial content, covering topics like the Roswell incident, Tunguska, Nessie, and alien encounters.
• APRA Bulletin: A pocket-sized, well-produced bulletin offering signposts for those interested in UFOlogy. It covers the Avebury weekend, a 'true UFO' sighting, and Brian James' attempts at communication with contacts.
• Northern UFO News (NUFON): Described as worth waiting for, featuring Jenny Randles' 'The Changing Face of British UFOlogy', discussing the drive for greater objectivity in the field.
• OVNI: A 14-page magazine featuring articles on Comet Lee close encounters, Nostradamus predictions, and reports on triangle-shaped craft.
• The Australian UFO Bulletin: A September issue from V.U.F.O.R.S. discussing UFO reports with non-normal trajectories, astronaut Edgar Mitchell's views on alien visitations, and triangle sightings.
• TEMS NEWS: An 8-page publication with a 'seahenge' cover, edited by Lionel Beer, covering paranormal topics including UFOs and crop circles.
• Skywatchers: The Cornwall UFO Research Group's publication, featuring articles on 'Alien Abduction', mind control, the CIA, and alien abduction reports.
• CASMAG: Two copies reviewed, with a question about reaching anyone and an article on abduction that is described as fiction.
• Faster Than Light: The Hull UFO Society's magazine, with articles on Roswell, Tunguska, and sightings in the Hull area.
• UPRI Newsletter: A publication from UFO and Paranormal Research Ireland, featuring a 'baby alien' embryo crash report and media-filched articles.

Other Articles and Features

• Russian UFO Files: A discussion about Russia's economic situation leading to the sale of UFO files and data, potentially leading to commercial conspiracies and the spread of misinformation.
• Dr. James McDonald and Dr. J. Allen Hynek: Their past testimonies regarding the credibility of UFO witnesses are recalled, emphasizing the difficulty in finding trivial explanations for sightings by scientists and professionals.
• Richard Haines: Mentioned as the successor to McDonald and Hynek, director of the joint US-Commonwealth of Independent States working group on UFOs.
• Steve Rider's Contribution: A personal account of an interest in the paranormal and UFOs, leading to involvement with the Southampton UFO Group and teaching UFO studies. Rider expresses frustration with the lack of support for local groups and a sense of disillusionment, but vows to continue the search for truth.
• NASA Home Page 1.10.99: Reports on the Mars Climate Orbiter team finding the likely cause of its loss was a mix-up between English and metric units in data transfer.
• Television & Radio Reviews: A section noting a lack of programs to review and a call for reader contributions.
• 10,000 mph UFO Sighting: A report from Lynn News about Dennis Frost and his son Robert witnessing two emerald green lights moving at incredible speed over West Norfolk.
• SUFOG Case Reports: Brief mentions of a UFO sighting in Southampton involving a hovering object and a second report of two objects following each other, with a note that the latter might be related to the Southampton boat show.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SUFOG include the critical examination of media portrayals of UFO phenomena, the exploration of psychological explanations for alleged encounters (particularly sleep paralysis), and the ongoing efforts of dedicated researchers and groups to investigate and understand UFOs. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging critical thinking while acknowledging the persistent nature of the UFO mystery. There's a clear emphasis on distinguishing between sensationalism and genuine investigation, and a call for greater public engagement and support for UFO research groups.

Title: SUFOG
Issue: PAGE 21
Volume: 22
Date: September 1999
Publisher: SUFOG
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

This issue of SUFOG, a publication focused on ufology, contains several distinct sections, including reader correspondence, an article on abduction regression therapy, reports on crop circle phenomena in Canada, an editorial apology regarding postage, and a sales list for videos.

Reader Correspondence

The issue opens with a letter from Mrs. D. Reynolds, a contented reader and group member. She expresses her gratitude to Steve, Bill Smith, and others involved in organizing SUFOG's activities, including the newsletter, events, and hall hire. Mrs. Reynolds acknowledges the frustration of low attendance at some meetings, referencing an excellent talk by Ernie Sears, and hopes he will speak again soon. She concludes by emphasizing a shared belief in seeking answers and encourages full support for SUFOG.

Regression for Abduction

This section addresses the prevalence of skepticism surrounding abduction claims. It highlights the need for therapists skilled in eliciting truthful memories that can withstand scrutiny. The author, a trained hypnotherapist with a specialization in regression for abduction scenarios, offers a safe and professional service. The process involves hypnosis to access memories of abduction periods, with the aim of removing trauma associated with the experience. Prospective clients are informed that a full personal case history will be taken during the first session. Interested individuals are directed to contact Sabena at 01703 225787 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Circles in Canada - September 1999

This segment compiles reports on crop circle discoveries in Canada, sourced from newspaper internet sites. It references articles from The Regina Leader - Post (Canada) dated September 21, 1999, and September 16, 1999, detailing the discovery of more crop circles and a farmer's wonder about their origin in Saskatoon. Additionally, it includes information from The Hamilton Spectator (Canada) dated July 30, 1999, and July 29, 1999, discussing crop circles in Hagersville and their connection to cosmic theories. The author expresses an intention to investigate these Canadian mystery appearances further with local contacts and provide updates.

Sorry from the editor... (On behalf of the Post Office)

The editor issues an apology to readers for any extra postage charges incurred on the previous newsletter. The issue is attributed to the Post Office, which had previously approved the envelope's postage. As a gesture of goodwill, the editor offers to include an extra 26p with the next newsletter for those who notify him before October 15th. Otherwise, apologies are extended on behalf of the Post Office.

Bargain Items for Sale

Page 22 lists various videos available for purchase, each priced at £7 including postage. These include:

1. Larry King Live: The UFO Cover-up / Alien Encounters: The Hanger 18 Connection.
2. Portsmouth UFO Conference 22.4.95: Featuring Busty Taylor, Roy Lake, and Gordon Millington.
3. Paul Vigay SUFOG Lecture 1997 / 1995 Crop Circle formations (2 Copies).
4. Segments from Good Morning America, The Late Show, Jane Hawtin Live, NBC News, and Ricki Lake Show.
5. Matthew Williams SUFOG Lecture (Rudlow Manor, 8.3.99), SUFOG Field Trip to Avebury (31.7.99), and The Why Files: SUFOG Interview (9.12.97).
6. Busty Taylor SUFOG Lecture (28.3.99): Crop Circles: A History.
7. Clips from ABC's Man Alive (Skymagic), Dini Petty Show, Buffalo AM (featuring W.Strieber), a Crop Circle in Windsor, and ABC Prime Time Live (KGB UFO Files, Walt Disney: Alien Encounters from the New Tomorrow Land).

CONFERENCE 1999 VIDEO FOR SALE

A 2-video set of the 1999 Conference is also available for £15.00, including postage and packaging. Tape 1 features Russel Callaghan, Graham Birdsall, and Malcolm Robinson. Tape 2 includes Lionel Beer, behind-the-scenes footage, and the 1999 visit to Avebury. Cheques or postal orders should be made payable to S. Gerrard.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around ufology, specifically UFO abductions and the phenomenon of crop circles. The magazine maintains a stance of open inquiry, providing a platform for personal experiences (like abduction accounts) and factual reporting (crop circle discoveries). It also demonstrates a commitment to its readership through reader correspondence and an apologetic tone for administrative errors. The inclusion of sales for videos and conference recordings indicates an effort to provide supplementary content and engage the community further.