SUNlite - Vol 02 No 04

Magazine Overview

SUNlite, Volume 2, Number 4, published July-August 2010, is a magazine dedicated to shedding light on UFOlogy and UFOs. The cover features a man in formal wear, identified as Richard Theilmann (AKA Source A), who is accused of 'stolen valor' for allegedly faking his credentials. The main cover headline is a quote: "It takes the heart of Warrior to find deception and take it down," with a reference to Stolenvalor.com.

Editorial Content and Key Articles

The editorial, "Back from Vacation to discover more of the same old stuff," expresses disappointment with the lack of progress in UFOlogical studies, noting the prevalence of speculative interpretations and hoaxes. The editor highlights the 'stolen valor' case of Richard Theilmann, who allegedly posed as a Navy Lt. Commander, and criticizes the UFOlogy community for not condemning such pretenders. The editor also mentions the return of UFO Updates online and the ongoing Roswell festival, expressing skepticism about claims related to the 'Ummo civilization'. A case from Kerman, California, involving a police officer's UFO sighting and sunburn is revisited, with the editor maintaining it was likely a rocket launch from Vandenberg AFB.

Who's blogging UFOs?

This section reviews various UFO-related blogs and online discussions. Kevin Randle's article on fireballs and UFOs suggests the Chiles-Whitted event might have been a misperceived fireball, and questions the lack of meteorite searches in Kecksburg. The Phoenix Lights witness is noted for an inaccurate time of sighting. Videos presented by Yalcin Yalman from Turkey are dismissed as hoaxes involving boat lights. Dennis Balthasar's questioning of the history of the pyramids is critiqued, with the editor suggesting he is influenced by shows like "Ancient Aliens." Billy Cox's blog is criticized for selectively presenting information and ignoring studies that contradict UFOlogist narratives, particularly regarding the F-16 chase over Belgium and the Malmstrom event. Jamie Havican's video of a satellite changing altitude is also discussed, with the editor suggesting it was likely a Cosmos satellite.

Paul Kimball's blog commentary on an ex-politician seeking publicity through UFO claims is mentioned, with Kimball's skepticism about the politician's access to information being highlighted. Colin Bennett's article "Child brides from outer space" is noted, as is Paola Leopizzi Harris's recollection of Carl Sagan's alleged statement about UFOs being real, which the editor finds suspicious given the timing after Sagan's and Hynek's deaths. A Swedish IFO (Identified Flying Object) story involving a strange UFO is explained as a medieval catapult launching a barbecue grill.

James Carrion's new organization, "The center for UFO truth," is discussed, with the editor expressing skepticism about titles containing "truth" and Carrion's theory that UFO phenomena are a government "cold war deception." Chris Rutkowski's commentary "The demise of UFOlogy" is summarized, noting his complaints about the lack of standards and leadership in the field. Joe Capp's discussions on using night vision to capture UFOs are reviewed, with the editor questioning his methodology and interpretation of videos, suggesting the recorded lights are likely amplified wavelengths of light rather than heat signatures. The UFO Examiner's selective skepticism around holidays is also pointed out.

The Roswell Corner

This section focuses on the Roswell incident. Dr. Bensen Saler's 1997 book "Roswell: Genesis of a modern myth" is discussed, with the editor finding it interesting to hear Saler discuss the storytelling and investigations surrounding the case. Bragalia's article on the San Augustin crash site is presented as an attempt to resurrect Stanton Friedman's claims, with Bragalia accusing Dr. Herbert Dick of lying about his presence at the site. Bragalia's stories about Roswell firemen involved in spaceship recovery are presented as "second hand stories" lacking documentation. Walter Haut's 1980s statements about the lack of unusual activity on base are cited as contradictory to Bragalia's narrative. Bragalia's article linking Hillary Clinton to Roswell conspiracy theories is dismissed as "making mountains out of ant hills." Finally, it is noted that 14% of Kevin Randle's readers believe the "Alien Autopsy" film might be real, with the editor suggesting readers may be influenced by cherished beliefs, similar to Randle's past defense of Frank Kaufmann.

Midwest fireball produces UFO reports

This article details reports of a bright fireball seen over several mid-western states on April 14th. Despite being recorded by security cameras and a state trooper's dash camera, and with meteorites being recovered, many reports filed with MUFON and NUFORC were classified as "unidentified." The article highlights a witness in Rochester, Minnesota, who described a "blue ball of light" with an "aura" that emanated light, but ultimately concluded it was an unidentified flying object. Another report from Odgensburg, Wisconsin, describes an object that appeared to be an aircraft on fire but was too fast for an aircraft. The article emphasizes how estimates of distance and altitude are often inaccurate in such events and questions the witnesses' claims, particularly when they lack astronomical knowledge but are quick to dismiss natural explanations.

Will the Perseids and other meteor showers produce UFO reports?

This piece anticipates increased UFO reports during the annual Perseid meteor shower in August. It notes that bright fireballs, passes by the International Space Station, Iridium flares, and bright planets can be mistaken for UFOs by casual observers unfamiliar with these phenomena. The author intends to monitor reports filed with MUFON and NUFORC.

UFO closes airport in China

An airport near Hangzhou, China, was shut down on July 7th due to a reported UFO sighting. While initial videos were linked to a rocket launch, photographs later appeared to be time exposures of helicopters. The article suggests that an airliner reported the UFO, and a radar contact was made. The author invokes Phil Klass's principle that reporting a UFO to a radar operator often results in finding an "unknown" target. Venus is suggested as a possible explanation. The author understands the airport's caution but notes that such cases enter UFO folklore as exotic events rather than potential misidentifications.

SUNlite "naysayer" part of Texas MUFON controversy

This article details a controversy involving Don Cherry of Texas MUFON, who allegedly criticized individuals associated with the Stephenville event of 2008 and distributed a web page critique. The author of SUNlite was labeled a "debunker" and "naysayer." The article summarizes Cherry's points, including his criticism of witness Ricky Sorrells' demand for a "breeding cow" and his portrayal of Angelina Joiner as a part-time reporter who gained fame through the Stephenville story. Cherry's claims about F-16 reservists never flying at night are disputed as being out of touch with military operations. The author notes that Cherry was subsequently "canned" by MUFON.

Stephenville abridged

This section discusses the Stephenville event, focusing on witness Steve Allen's report of seeing multiple strobes and flashing lights, estimating their speed at 2000-3000 mph. The article includes a map showing the routes of eight F-16s that night, suggesting that Allen likely saw the anticollision beacons of these jets. The author concludes that most UFO reports from that night are likely associated with F-16 activity rather than alien spacecraft.

A new amateur astronomer and UFOs myth

Chris Rutkowski's argument that amateur astronomers miss UFOs due to "inattention blindness" is critiqued. The author argues that Rutkowski's example of an astrophotographer is not representative of all amateur astronomers and that the "inattention blindness" experiment only showed a 50% failure rate. The article contends that bright UFOs, if they occurred, would be noticed by amateur astronomers, especially during organized star parties where hundreds of observers are present. The author suggests that the lack of UFO reports from such gatherings debunks the "tunnel vision" myth.

May 13th, 1978: Rocket launch or UFO?

This article revisits the Kerman, California UFO case. The primary witness, Mr. Amparano, complained that his testimony and the timing of the event were misrepresented. The author clarifies that the UTC time of the rocket launch aligns with Amparano's reported sighting time. While acknowledging other witness testimonies, the author finds them spotty and difficult to link to a single event. The sunburn issue is addressed, with no evidence proving the UFO caused it, suggesting it could be from another source. The article details Amparano's description of a "round fireball" and a "square turn," concluding that the trajectory is consistent with a distant rocket launch. A January 1979 Delta rocket launch from Cape Canaveral is shown as an example of a similar phenomenon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a skeptical stance towards UFO claims, emphasizing the importance of critical analysis, evidence-based investigation, and the debunking of hoaxes and misidentifications. The editor frequently criticizes the UFOlogy community for accepting unsubstantiated claims, promoting pseudoscience, and lacking rigorous standards. Recurring themes include the misinterpretation of natural phenomena (fireballs, meteors, planets), the impact of "stolen valor" and false claims on the credibility of UFOlogy, and the tendency for some individuals to seek publicity through UFO-related stories. The magazine advocates for a more scientific and grounded approach to UFO research, often pointing to military activity or known astronomical events as explanations for sightings.

This issue of UFO Magazine, dated October 2010, features a cover story titled "An Exopolitics nightmare" with the sub-headline "Source A is exposed." The magazine delves into the controversial claims of an individual known as 'Source A,' who purported to be a U.S. Navy officer with insider knowledge of extraterrestrial contact and secret government dealings. The issue also includes an article by Matthew Graeber detailing a UFO sighting and abduction case involving Nora D'Amico.

Source A is Exposed

The main article details an investigation into 'Source A,' whose identity was revealed by the "Reality Uncovered" blog on May 20, 2010. Initially, 'Source A' claimed to be a serving U.S. Navy officer sanctioned to disclose information about confidential UN meetings discussing UFOs and extraterrestrial life. He further alleged participation in a covert project involving face-to-face meetings with extraterrestrials, including Reptilian and silicon-based life forms, and even boarding their spacecraft on three occasions. His claims were supported by UFO investigators Clay and Shawn Pickering, who interviewed him and suggested a covert inter-services working group attempted to brief President Obama.

However, the investigation took a turn when a photograph, supposedly taken by 'Source A' at an "Open Minds forum" on April 9th, was presented. This photograph was allegedly taken during a highly secretive briefing by the Chief of Naval Operations (CNO). Forum co-administrator "Jeddyhi" (John) discovered that the admiral was actually giving a public speaking event at the New York Athletic Club, not a secret briefing. This discrepancy raised serious doubts about 'Source A's' narrative.

Reality Uncovered, with the help of member Andy Murray and co-owner Ryan Dube, identified the individual in the photograph as Richard Theilmann. Further research into Theilmann's background revealed significant inconsistencies. He claimed to be a Lieutenant Commander (LCDR) with forty years of naval experience, but records suggested this was unlikely. His "My Space" page mentioned "some college," which seemed improbable for a career naval officer. Theilmann also displayed a chest full of medals, including a Bronze Star and Purple Heart, which seemed excessive for a typical officer.

Further investigation into Theilmann's claims about his involvement in Hurricane Katrina relief efforts and his military service credentials, including using his wife's health insurance for surgery, raised more red flags. Reality Uncovered discovered he had been working in the civilian sector since 1995, contradicting his claims of military service. A request to the National Personnel Records Center yielded no record of Richard Theilmann's military service. Theilmann's family reportedly confirmed he never served in the U.S. Navy and was a "fraud."

Stephen Broadbent added that Theilmann had claimed to be coerced and that his military records were being expunged as a "fail safe" contingency. Theilmann also claimed to have been shot down by Soviets over the Pacific and awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart, but stated this was classified. He also held an honorary position as assistant chaplain in the Naval Order of the United States, despite never being an official member. The article suggests Theilmann may have started impersonating a naval officer after his brother's death, possibly inspired by his brother's military honors.

The article concludes by questioning the credulity of UFOlogists and "Exopoliticians" who, by not thoroughly vetting sources, enable individuals like Theilmann to thrive.

The D'Amico Case: A Delayed Investigation

Matthew Graeber's article details the UFO sighting and alleged abduction experience of Nora D'Amico, which occurred in 1976 in South/Eastern Pennsylvania. Nora reported seeing a hovering, cigar-shaped object with glass panels and blue and white lights above her lawn. She described the craft's interior, including compartments with counters, control panels, and chairs, and observed two alien beings and a woman in a floral print dress inside.

Years later, after reading a newspaper article about UFO sightings, Nora contacted the writer, leading to an investigation by an abduction expert. The expert, along with another investigator, interviewed Nora and her husband, Joe. Based on Nora's account, particularly her apparent loss of time, the abductologist suspected she had been abducted.

Graeber, who had taken a forensic hypnosis class, participated in a regressive hypnosis session with Nora. During the session, Nora described being directed by a light beam into the UFO and lying on a table while aliens examined her. The expert noted a "blockage" preventing Nora from recalling more details about the examination. Graeber attempted to inquire about the aliens' eye characteristics, but the hypnotist seemed focused on confirming his own preconceived notions of alien appearances, particularly the "Gray" alien type.

Graeber notes that the abductologist dismissed much of Mr. D'Amico's account as "confabulation" and "distortions of fact," rejecting Nora's descriptions of the aliens' appearance in favor of the more popular "Gray" alien. The article suggests that the abduction expert may have engaged in "amateur brain washing" by confirming his own beliefs through the witness testimony.

Further investigation by Graeber revealed inconsistencies in Nora's account, such as her date of the incident not aligning with TV programming schedules. Despite these issues, Nora's story remained consistent over the years, and she did not report additional sightings or abductions.

Graeber concludes that while Nora's experience might have been a "Dynamic Display" or a misinterpretation of everyday events, the abduction community's reliance on hypnosis and unverified accounts can lead to the creation of elaborate narratives that lack scientific rigor.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly emphasizes skepticism towards sensational claims within the exopolitics and UFOlogy communities, particularly those lacking verifiable evidence. The "Source A" exposé highlights the dangers of uncritical acceptance of witness testimony and the ease with which individuals can fabricate elaborate stories. The magazine promotes rigorous investigation and fact-checking, as demonstrated by the "Reality Uncovered" team. The D'Amico case, while presented as a UFO sighting, is analyzed through the lens of potential psychological factors like confabulation and the influence of popular culture on witness recall, questioning the methodology of abduction research. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, urging readers to approach UFO phenomena with a discerning and evidence-based perspective, distinguishing between genuine investigation and unsubstantiated speculation.

This issue of SUNlite, identified by its page number '20', delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, critically examining abduction research, astronomical misidentifications, and the methodology of UFO investigation. The content is primarily in English and appears to be from a publication focused on UFOlogy.

Abduction Research Critiqued

The issue begins with a personal account of attending a gathering hosted by an abductologist. The author describes the atmosphere as festive, with attendees sharing abduction stories, some of which are deemed psychologically abusive or brainwashing, particularly concerning a child's account of an alien implant. The author expresses skepticism towards the abductologist, finding him well-educated but deluded, and notes his promotion of a 'contactee-like movement' which the author believes could harm serious UFO research. The author and companions left the gathering, finding it cult-like.

A subsequent section, titled 'Let the Abductee beware!', questions why, after decades of reported abductions, no one has documented or thwarted an abduction. It criticizes 'abductologists' for profiting from these experiences through books and media deals rather than protecting their clients. The author posits that if aliens can 'switch off' people to prevent them from noticing abductions, they could theoretically 'switch off' everyone, leaving abductologists with no subjects. The abductologist mentioned earlier is described as disparaging the work of other UFO experts, except for a close friend. The author also notes that the field of abductology has been tarnished by sex and financial scandals involving self-appointed experts, warning that relying on untrained individuals for hypnosis can be dangerous.

An addendum mentions information about a disgruntled abductee named Emma, who alleges mistreatment and psychological abuse by an abductologist who hypnotically regressed her over the phone for years, instilling a belief in 'Multiple Personality Disorder' to explain away hybrid alien creatures. The abductologist is described as a popular author and expert, but the author of the article links Emma's story to previous assertions about the dangers of abduction research, referencing Phil Klass's book 'UFO Abduction a dangerous game' and suggesting that abduction experiences might be related to false memory, fantasy proneness, or 'Old Hag assaults'.

UFO University: Stars and Planets

This section addresses the common misidentification of celestial objects as UFOs. It highlights that stars and planets are frequently reported as UFOs, with many people being ignorant of the night sky. Allan Hendry's UFO handbook is cited, noting that stars and planets are common UFO pretenders.

Is it astronomical?

Four questions are posed to help identify astronomical objects: 1. Does it return every night in the same general location? 2. Does it slowly descend in the west or ascend in the east? 3. Is it visible for long periods? 4. Does it appear as the sky gets dark or disappear as it gets light? These are presented as indicators for identifying astronomical sightings.

Scintillation effects

Bright stars, especially near the horizon, exhibit scintillation, which causes them to twinkle and change color and apparent motion. This effect can distort their appearance, leading to misidentification. The star Sirius is mentioned as an example.

Planets

Venus is identified as the celestial object most responsible for UFO reports. Jupiter and Mars can also be mistaken for UFOs. Witnesses often describe planets as star-like, having significant angular size, emitting spikes, and casting shadows. The Condon study case number 37 is cited as an example of how the planet Venus fooled police officers and others, with a plane even being dispatched to pursue it. Dr. J. Allen Hynek described this as a 'fantastic example of how persuasive the planet Venus can be as a nonscreened UFO'.

Daylight Planets

Venus and Jupiter can be seen in the daytime with the naked eye. Binoculars can enhance the view, sometimes revealing a 'half-moon' shape for Venus, which might be mistaken for a dome-shaped object. Dr. Roy Craig's experience during the Condon study is mentioned, where a UFO seen in daylight was initially dismissed as Venus.

Belief over reason

The author expresses reluctance to use Venus as an explanation unless there is strong evidence, noting that UFO proponents often dismiss it even when it fits. A MUFON report is cited where a witness insisted their sighting was not Venus, despite investigators' assertions. The power of belief in viewing a 'true' UFO can override logic.

International Space Station produces UFO “wave”

This article discusses how the International Space Station (ISS) can generate UFO reports. The ISS, being in almost-constant sunlight, shines brightly when passing overhead, sometimes multiple times a night. The author investigated MUFON reports submitted around June 24-27, finding that 24 out of 57 reports potentially represented ISS sightings, a significant increase compared to a previous period. A scoring system was developed to classify these reports based on descriptions of time, direction, and speed, with higher scores indicating greater confidence in the ISS identification.

Out of 57 reports, 14 were given a score of two or less and discarded. The remaining reports were considered likely ISS sightings, representing roughly 22% of all reports during that period. The author notes that some witnesses described the ISS as having a 'pure' light without strobe or navigation lights. Many self-proclaimed 'amateur astronomers' were not thorough in their reports, indicating they were likely 'sky watchers'. The article concludes by questioning when UFOlogists will recognize that the ISS can produce UFO reports.

A UFO research project

This section advocates for a more scientific approach to UFO research by implementing a system to verify UFO reports. The author suggests that an actual video recording of an event is crucial for verification. A proposed system involves using sixteen cameras, each with a 4mm lens, to provide all-sky coverage. The estimated cost for such a system, including cameras and a multichannel DVR, is $5200 for one system, with a total of $20,000 for three systems set up in a triangular formation for triangulation.

The camera

The author uses a PC-164 camera with a 4mm F1.2 Fujinon lens, which is effective for recording stars and outlines of trees. It can record stars down to 3rd and 4th magnitude and has a lux value of 0.001.

The System

Sixteen cameras are recommended for all-sky coverage. Supercircuits is mentioned as a supplier. The cost for 16 cameras and a lens is approximately $200 per unit, totaling $3200. A multichannel DVR with DVD burner costs $2000, making the total system cost $5200. The author notes that Supercircuits also offers 16-camera DVR packages with lower resolution and sensitivity.

The setup

Three systems would be set up in a triangular formation, with each leg between 2-5 miles apart. This setup would allow for the conversion of recorded data to determine true speed, altitude, size, and distance. The author believes this would be a significant advancement for UFOlogy, costing less than $20,000.

Information best ignored?

The author urges UFOlogy to invest in data production, countering the argument that $20,000 is too much money by comparing it to the investments made by amateur astronomers. The author suggests that UFOlogists might be afraid of discovering that UFOs are not as numerous as reported or that misperceptions and hoaxes are common explanations. The author's response to complaints about a lack of scientific interest is 'put up or shut up'.

How to record your UFO observations

This section provides guidance on how to record UFO observations effectively.

A good starting point

Accurate recording of particulars is essential. Location and time must be precise. Simply stating a town or city is insufficient; longitude and latitude should be determined using GPS or online tools. A close approximation of time is acceptable, but for planned skywatches, accuracy within 5 minutes is expected. A synchronized clock is recommended over a wristwatch.

Size and distance

Distance estimates are considered worthless unless they can be gauged against a fixed object with a known distance. Size estimation is best done using angular size, with the moon serving as a reference. Fingers and hands held at arm's length can also be used for larger objects. The article includes a figure illustrating angular sizes.

Azimuth

Azimuth is a 360-degree circle starting from due north, with east at 90 degrees and south at 180 degrees. This system allows for precise directional measurements.

Elevation

Elevation is measured from the horizon (0 degrees) to directly overhead (90 degrees). Values can be approximated.

Tools

The author created a little alt-azimuth viewfinder for tracking objects like satellites, which can be accurate if set up correctly. It allows for setting azimuth and elevation and has a range of error of about +/- five degrees, which is considered reasonable for UFO observation.

Which style of UFO “spotting”?

These recorded values can help identify any UFO and provide valuable data if multiple observers in different locations obtain this information. This data can be used to determine actual speed, size, distance, and altitude. The author hopes that any 'UFO spotters club' will gather the right kind of data, otherwise, it will be a duplication of past UFO group failures.

UFOs on the tube

This section reviews a TV show, likely a documentary or news segment, concerning UFOs.

Weird or what? Ghost Ship

The show discussed the Stephenville UFO incident. Two prominent witnesses, Steve Allen and Lee Roy Gaitan, recounted their stories. Steve Allen described the sighting in religious terms, calling it a 'biblical event' and referring to pursuing jets as 'end times'. The author notes that while objectivity is important, such religious interpretations can be set aside.

Dr. Allison Sekuler provided a discussion on misperception, explaining how the mind can affect interpretation. James McGaha discussed F-16 activity in the area, suggesting it could be misinterpreted as UFOs, focusing on flare activity. The author felt the show could have improved by showing F-16s at night and providing maps of flight paths to illustrate similarities with sightings. Instead, the show downplayed the F-16 explanation.

The show then presented a theory by Steven Douglass, who claimed the military operates large stealth blimps at 200,000 to 300,000 feet to monitor civilians. The author dismisses this theory due to its lack of evidence, potential resolution issues for cameras at such altitudes, and the availability of stealthy surveillance craft. Douglass suggested that a malfunctioning blimp led to the military staging an 'air show' with F-16s to distract from it. The author labels Douglass a conspiracy theorist and criticizes the show for failing when it allowed him to speak.

Book Reviews

Buy it! (No UFO library should do without it)

Watch the skies by Curtis Peebles: This book is praised for documenting the history of the American UFO phenomenon from 1947 to 1994, highlighting how events influenced UFOlogy and the evolution of the UFO myth.

Borrow it. (Worth checking out of library or borrowing from a friend)

The UFO Controversy in America by David Michael Jacobs: This book offers an informative presentation of UFO history from the proponent's viewpoint. Written in the mid-1970s, its forecast of scientists studying UFOs did not materialize. It is recommended for borrowing.

Bin it! (Not worth the paper it is written upon - send to recycle bin)

UFO Briefing document by Don Berliner with Marie Galbraith and Antonio Huneeus: This book is described as disappointing, promoting questionable UFO cases as evidence of alien visitation. Cases that were later explained are seen as indicative of research problems. The book promotes the Canary Island UFOs of 1976, which were identified as ICBM test launches. It also includes quotes from government/military officials, some taken out of context. The section on 'characteristics' of IFOs and UFOs is deemed worthless. The title 'Whitley Streiber's hidden agendas' is a warning sign.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SUNlite include a critical examination of the abduction research field, emphasizing its potential for exploitation and psychological harm. There is a strong advocacy for scientific rigor in UFO investigation, with a focus on data collection and the elimination of misperceptions, particularly the misidentification of celestial objects like planets and the ISS as UFOs. The magazine appears to hold a skeptical but open-minded stance towards UFO phenomena, encouraging evidence-based analysis and critiquing unsubstantiated claims and conspiracy theories. The editorial stance is one of promoting a more grounded and scientific approach to understanding UFO reports, while also acknowledging the historical and cultural impact of the UFO phenomenon.