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SUNlite - Vol 02 No 06
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Title: SUNlite Issue: Volume 2 Number 6 Date: November-December 2010 Publisher: SUNlite Country: USA Language: English
Magazine Overview
Title: SUNlite
Issue: Volume 2 Number 6
Date: November-December 2010
Publisher: SUNlite
Country: USA
Language: English
This issue of SUNlite, subtitled "Shedding some light on UFOlogy and UFOs," focuses heavily on the Rendlesham Forest incident, presenting a skeptical analysis that suggests the events were likely misperceptions of natural or man-made phenomena. The cover features the title "SUNlite" against a dark, starry sky.
Voices from the Woods: The Rendlesham Forest Incident
The core of the magazine delves into the Rendlesham Forest incident, presenting witness statements and investigative commentary. Jim Penniston's account is highlighted, noting his description of a triangular, metallic object with lights, and his later claims of touching symbols on the craft and taking 36 photographs. However, the article points out inconsistencies in Penniston's story, including changes in the description of the object, its size, and the timing of events. His claim of a midnight start to the events is contrasted with other witnesses and official reports placing the start around 0300.
John Burroughs and Ed Cabansag, also present that night, provide accounts that differ from Penniston's. Burroughs describes lights, not a solid craft, and follows a beacon light for two miles before realizing it was a lighthouse. Cabansag also describes following a light that turned out to be a farmhouse. The article emphasizes that these accounts, along with statements from Msgt Chandler and Lt. Buran, suggest the events began later and involved the pursuit of a lighthouse beacon, not a landed craft.
Colonel Charles Halt's later statements are scrutinized, particularly his claim that the witnesses described a triangular craft approximately nine feet on a side. The article asserts this is false, as original statements did not mention a specific size or shape, and Halt's own memo placed the event at 0300, not midnight. The article suggests Halt may have been less than accurate and possibly dishonest in concealing information, such as the lighthouse pursuit, to promote his own narrative.
Ian Ridpath's theory that the lighthouse, fireballs, and stars were the sources of the phenomena is presented as having withstood the test of time, with increasing evidence supporting his explanations over the years. The article notes that Penniston's description of a "winking eye" and flashing light closely matches the Orford Ness lighthouse's rotation rate. The object's movement described by Halt is also consistent with a setting star like Sirius.
The fatigue factor is also considered, with witnesses having been up since early morning or late the previous night, potentially impairing their judgment and perception.
The Roswell Corner
This section revisits the Roswell incident. Kevin Randle discusses a story about hauling Roswell debris in Ohio, which he finds unsubstantiated. The article also examines a piece by Anthony Bragalia about Sheriff George Wilcox, suggesting Wilcox was not mentally distraught and did not decide not to run for re-election due to the event. Inez Wilcox's account is analyzed, with the author noting discrepancies regarding the timing of debris collection and phone calls, and pointing out the absence of mentions of death threats, alien bodies, or crashed spaceships, which implies these elements are part of later mythology.
Nick Nickerson is identified as Warren Nicholson, a UFO investigator. Bragalia is noted for misidentifying him. The article discusses the Zanesville, Ohio photographs and Mr. Ditter's confession of hoaxing them, which Nicholson was involved in securing.
Who's Blogging UFOs?
This section critiques various UFO bloggers and online discussions. The Sanger Paranormal Society is criticized for its "white van video" and a triangular UFO sighting, suggesting they mistake aircraft lighting for alien technology. Anthony Sanchez is noted for misidentifying a sundog as a UFO. Dr. David Clarke's blog post about Rendlesham, which questioned Colonel Halt's account, is discussed, as is Robert Hastings' rebuttal, which is characterized as relying heavily on Halt and Nick Pope and demonstrating a flawed research methodology.
The "UFO Iconoclasts" blog is criticized for focusing on minor errors like misspellings while posting articles with factual errors and misleading statements. "UFO Chronicles" is accused of censoring opposing opinions rather than engaging with solid arguments.
Other bloggers mentioned include Greg Boone, who is criticized for aggressive language, and Douglas Trumbull, whose UFOTOG video is presented as a serious scientific effort. Chris O'Brien's use of webcams on cell phone towers is mentioned, and the Magonia blog's critique of MUFON and its membership is noted, particularly regarding the Fort Dix event.
The issue also discusses a prediction of a UFO event over major cities by Stephen Fulham, which coincided with sightings in New York City, but is explained as likely being caused by balloons released from Times Square and a school.
Fireballs and Rockets
This section lists meteor fireball sightings reported by the American Meteor Society (AMS) during September and October, along with two rocket launches from Vandenberg AFB. The data includes dates, times, estimated magnitudes, and states where they were observed. It notes that some of these events appeared in the MUFON database.
A review of the Rendlesham case (Continued)
This section continues the detailed examination of the Rendlesham incident, focusing on the second night's events and further analyzing the evidence. It discusses Colonel Halt's claim of radiation levels being high, contrasting it with tape recordings that show much lower levels. Halt's description of a "winking eye" and beams is again linked to the Orford Ness lighthouse and the star Sirius. The article also questions Halt's claim of three or four objects to the north, noting that the tape mentions only two, consistent with stars like Deneb and Vega. The fatigue of the witnesses on both nights is reiterated as a significant factor affecting their observations.
The rocket attack that wasn't
This anecdote describes an incident in Groton, Connecticut, where a US Navy Petty Officer reported seeing a rocket attack on the submarine base. The author, then an Engineering Duty Petty Officer, investigated and concluded it was a bright fireball meteor, later confirmed by a newspaper article. This story is used to illustrate how preconceptions, influenced by events like the Gulf War, can lead to misinterpretations of celestial phenomena.
Reports of fireball sighting made in 9 states
This is a news clipping detailing a brilliant fireball seen across nine states, with descriptions ranging from "the size of a Volkswagen" to a "boomerang on its side." Witnesses reported a green-and-red tail and a bright light. Astronomers suggest it was likely a low-flying meteor that burned brightly upon entering the Earth's atmosphere, possibly breaking up or falling into the Atlantic Ocean.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring theme throughout this issue is the critical examination of UFO claims, with a strong emphasis on skepticism and the search for mundane explanations. The editorial stance appears to favor logical analysis and evidence-based conclusions, often challenging the more sensational or unsubstantiated claims made by UFO proponents. The magazine aims to shed light on UFOlogy by dissecting specific cases, questioning the reliability of certain witnesses and investigators, and highlighting instances where misperceptions or natural phenomena have been mistaken for extraterrestrial activity. There is a clear effort to debunk myths and present a more grounded perspective on the UFO phenomenon.
This issue of SUNlite magazine delves into several key topics within the UFOlogy field, including a critical examination of the AN/PDR-27 radiation detector, a comprehensive analysis of how aircraft are frequently misidentified as UFOs, and a review of classified documents pertaining to the Roswell incident. The magazine also critiques recent UFO literature and the methodologies employed by some UFO investigators.
The AN/PDR-27 and Rendlesham
The lead article focuses on the AN/PDR-27 radiation detector, with the author sharing his experience as a US Navy nuclear propulsion program technician. He questions the choice of this particular detector for the Rendlesham incident, suggesting it was not the best tool for measuring ground radiation levels. The author highlights potential issues with the AN/PDR-27, including the operator's experience level, the device's sensitivity to movement, battery charge, calibration, and the physical condition of the sensor probe, all of which could lead to erroneous readings. The article notes that Sgt. Nevels, the operator, focused on the audible clicks rather than the meter's deflection, and his reading of "seven-tenths" was not a standard way to announce a measurement. The AN/PDR-27's "beta-window" is also discussed, which allows for the detection of low-energy Beta radiation. The author disputes Colonel Halt's claim that only the center of the "triangle" at Rendlesham was "hot," citing Sgt. Nevels' readings on trees and in holes, suggesting radiation levels were more widespread. The article concludes that the documented radiation levels, even if accurate, were insignificant and not unusual when properly examined, and that the lack of proper radiation surveys makes the recorded data essentially worthless.
UFO Misidentifications: Aircraft
A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to explaining how various types of aircraft are commonly misidentified as UFOs. The article "IFO University: Aircraft" systematically breaks down these potential misidentifications:
Fake Planes????
This section addresses the idea that some UFOs might be "fake airplanes" designed to mimic conventional craft, dismissing this as an impossible explanation.
Airplanes during the day
Aircraft seen from a distance during the day can appear as white dots or flat discs. They can disappear between clouds or seem to move with incredible speed. Even small aircraft may not produce contrails, making them harder to identify.
Unusual airplanes
Stealth aircraft like the F-117 and B-2 are mentioned, as well as ultralights, experimental aircraft, and UAVs, which can have unconventional appearances.
Advertisement airplanes
Airplanes towing illuminated messages or banners, which were common in the 1970s and still occur today, can be mistaken for UFOs, especially when the plane itself is obscured.
Airplanes at sunset and sunrise
Planes and their contrails reflecting the setting sun can create illusions. A plane can suddenly reflect light as a bright spot, appearing to materialize and disappear suddenly.
Airplanes at night
At night, aircraft lights can change appearance as the plane maneuvers, leading to misinterpretations of hovering or sudden turns. Lights can also take on triangular shapes, often mistaken for UFOs, especially when anti-collision strobes are present.
Helicopters
While generally noisy, helicopters, especially military ones with spotlights or twin-rotor designs, can appear unusual and be mistaken for alien craft from a distance.
Airplane formations
Aircraft flying in formation, particularly at night, can create unique shapes, such as "V" formations or "disc" shapes, leading to misidentification, as seen in reports from the Stephenville case.
Blimps/airships
Blimps, especially those used for advertising or military purposes (like the US Navy's MZ-3A airship), can be mistaken for UFOs from a distance, particularly if their markings are not visible.
Radio controlled aircraft
Modern radio-controlled aircraft equipped with numerous LEDs can fly at night and perform maneuvers that appear exotic and "unworldly."
Beware the aircraft
Investigators are urged to always consider aircraft as a potential explanation for UFO sightings, especially at night. The presence of anti-collision beacons or strobes strongly suggests an aircraft.
The Kean and Oberg MSNBC Debate
This section critiques Leslie Kean's book and her public foray into UFOlogy. The author argues that Kean's research on the Kecksburg UFO "crash" was flawed, relying on Stan Gordon without consulting Dr. Von Del Chamberlin. James Oberg is cited for his critical piece on Kean's book, pointing out errors and the misuse of pilot testimony. Kean's response, blaming an author of a chapter, is seen as an attempt to evade responsibility. The article reviews several cases highlighted in Kean's book, including Brazil 1986 (anomalous radar signals), Rendlesham 1980 (questioning Halt and Penniston's honesty), Trans-en-Provence 1981 (science deemed unconvincing), the Belgium "wave" (radar contacts deemed erroneous), Cosford 1993 (explained as a rocket booster re-entry), and Arizona UFOs 1997 (logical explanation suggested). The Channel Islands 2007 case is also mentioned as being less convincing upon investigation. The author criticizes Kean's proposal for a new government organization to study UFOs, suggesting it would be a waste of taxpayer money, and concludes that Kean's work is merely a repackaging of old UFOlogy beliefs.
Life in the Bullseye: Dr. David Clarke Takes Verbal Abuse
This article discusses Dr. David Clarke's work with the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) UFO files and the criticism he faced from the UFOlogy community. Clarke, a researcher with a degree in Folklore, was involved in the public release of these files. The author defends Clarke against attacks, particularly from Robert Hastings, highlighting that Clarke's academic background and familiarity with archives made him a suitable choice for the task. The article refutes the implication that Clarke's skeptical attitude was a government ploy to downplay significant findings. It is argued that no "smoking gun" proving alien spaceships has been found in any released files, and belittling Clarke for this lack of evidence is akin to a "UFOlogical temper tantrum."
Comments about the Hill article and questions about the new Hill-Wilson map
This section addresses an e-mail exchange between the author and Steve Pearse regarding Matt Graeber's article on the Betty Hill star map. Pearse claims to have solved the Betty Hill map with a new "Hill-Wilson map," based on an alien's description to Erik Wilson. The author expresses skepticism, questioning how this new case can be linked to the Hills' abduction and pointing out inconsistencies in Pearse's interpretation of the alien's directions and the "triangle" formation. The author notes that Pearse's proposed triangle is not a perfect isosceles triangle and that the stars identified are faint, suggesting an alien would likely use more obvious stars for guidance. Pearse refused to produce his star map, implying it would be revealed in his upcoming book, which the author found suspicious. The author concludes that the Hill-Wilson map cannot be seriously considered a scientific effort.
Classified documents and Roswell
This section examines classified documents related to the Roswell incident and early UFO investigations. The author presents evidence from documents written in the late 1940s and early 1950s, including the Twining memo and reports from Project Sign and Project Grudge. These documents consistently indicate a lack of physical evidence for crashed flying saucers and suggest that investigations were primarily concerned with potential Soviet aircraft or domestic high-security projects. The article highlights statements from intelligence officers expressing a desire to recover such craft if they existed, implying they had not. The analysis suggests that the official record of the Roswell event is sparse and points towards a terrestrial source, with no concrete evidence supporting the alien spaceship crash narrative.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently adopts a critical and analytical stance towards UFO phenomena. There is a strong emphasis on debunking sensational claims and promoting rational explanations, particularly the misidentification of conventional objects like aircraft. The articles advocate for rigorous scientific investigation and question the methodologies of many UFO researchers, especially those relying heavily on anecdotal evidence or promoting conspiracy theories. The publication appears to favor explanations grounded in known physics and observable phenomena, while acknowledging the existence of unexplained cases but cautioning against premature conclusions about extraterrestrial origins. The critique of Leslie Kean's book and the detailed breakdown of aircraft misidentifications underscore this skeptical yet investigative approach.
This issue of UFO REPORT, identified as issue number 14 from May 1955, published by the United States Air Technical Intelligence Center, focuses on analyzing UFO phenomena through a skeptical lens, examining specific cases and official investigations.
The Roswell Crash and Official Investigations
The article "SR14 nixes the crash idea" discusses Project Bluebook's Special Report Number 14, which concluded there was a complete lack of physical evidence in reported unidentified aerial object cases. It highlights that despite claims of examining debris, no such evidence was found. The "GAO is shutout" section details the Government Accounting Office's (GAO) investigation into documents related to the Roswell "crash." The GAO examined various government records from 1947-1954 but found no indication of any documents pertaining to the Roswell incident, nor any mention of the crash or recovery of an airborne object near Roswell in July 1947 in executive branch agencies' responses.
The article questions whether hundreds or thousands of records discussing the Roswell crash were removed or if AMC personnel activities were edited to conceal involvement. It posits that the lack of any hint of unusual activity suggests either nothing extraordinary happened or a conspiracy has covered its tracks exceptionally well.
Smoke Screen or Self-Deception?
This section addresses the UFOlogist perspective, suggesting that destroyed or highly classified documents are the reason for the lack of evidence. It contrasts this with the GAO's findings, noting that previous government deceptions (like the Trinity explosion or U-2 flight) involved public statements, not the systematic denial of classified documents. The author argues that dismissing all evidence as part of a conspiracy is a logical fallacy.
The Beginning of the Belgian UFO Wave
Jean-Michel Abrassart's article, "The beginning of the Belgian UFO wave," investigates the start of the wave on November 29, 1989. He critiques the Belgian Society for the Study of Spatial Phenomena (SOBEPS) for promoting the wave in a non-impartial manner. Abrassart discusses the skeptical hypothesis of psychosocial contagion, where media reports create a belief in UFOs, leading to misidentification of natural phenomena. He contrasts this with the SOBEPS argument that the wave began too suddenly for media influence to be a factor, citing the 143 sightings reported on the first night.
Auguste Meessen, a physics professor, is presented as a key figure who refutes the socio-psychological model, advocating for the extraterrestrial hypothesis. Meessen viewed the Belgian Wave as an opportunity for conclusive proof of extraterrestrial origins. Abrassart notes that Meessen dismisses the socio-psychological model in less than a page of a 500-page report.
The Policemen's Sighting
The article details the central sighting on the night of November 29, 1989, by two policemen in Eupen, Von Montigny and Nichols. They described following a dark shape with three bright lights and a red flashing light, which appeared stationary over the Gileppe dam as a white dot with red filaments. Ufologists argue that their status as policemen validates the sighting. However, Abrassart questions this, stating that policemen are still human and prone to errors or fantasies. He notes that the SOBEPS did not conduct psychological testing on witnesses, focusing instead on finding proof for the extraterrestrial hypothesis. The influence of conversations between the witnesses and potential leading questions from Auguste Meessen during interviews are highlighted as methodological weaknesses.
Retroactive Witness Statements
Abrassart argues that the large number of sightings on November 29, 1989, can be explained by psychosocial contagion. He suggests that once the policemen's sighting was publicized, local people who had seen strange objects were encouraged to report them, influencing their statements to align with the initial report. This retroactive reporting, he contends, makes the wave compatible with psychosocial contagion. He criticizes Auguste Meessen for not mentioning the dates witness statements were recorded, calling it a significant methodological weakness that could indicate manipulation.
The March 31, 1990 Ramillies UFO Observation
Roger Paquay analyzes a UFO event that occurred on March 31, 1990, involving multiple witnesses and photographs. The witnesses described a yellowish light that divided into four white lights, with a dark shape visible behind them. A photographer took three pictures, which were later found to be underexposed, showing only small points of light. Paquay critically examines the "Herschel effect" hypothesis proposed by Professor A. Meessen, which suggests infrared light erased the photographic emulsion. Paquay finds this hypothesis improbable, citing the lack of heat felt by witnesses and the presence of un-erased points in the photograph. He suggests that underexposure is a more likely explanation, supported by photographic principles. The analysis also considers the possibility of a plane, like a 747, being mistaken for a UFO, noting that the appearance of lights from a distant aircraft can change as it approaches.
Paquay concludes that the Ramillies case, like others, exhibits methodological mistakes and unproven assertions that lead to misinterpretation, favoring the extraterrestrial hypothesis without sufficient evidence. He points out missing data, such as the field of view of the telephoto lens, and inconsistencies in witness descriptions and photographic evidence. The author suggests that a plane, rather than a UFO, is a more likely explanation, adhering to Occam's razor.
Joining Shough's Singular Adventure
Martin S. Kottmeyer reviews Martin Shough's critique of the Kenneth Arnold case, "The Singular Adventure of Mr. Kenneth Arnold." Kottmeyer praises Shough's detailed research and comprehensive approach, noting its scholarly tone and the inclusion of James McDonald's investigation details. Shough's work attempts to find a match for Arnold's objects behind Glacier Island, though Kottmeyer points out this is outside the reported altitude range.
Kottmeyer highlights Shough's critique of recent explanations for the Arnold case. However, he notes that Shough, after dismantling other theories, offers no alternative explanation, leaving the case as a mystery. Kottmeyer discusses Shough's response to Dr. David Clarke's question about the likelihood of Arnold seeing pelicans versus extraterrestrial craft or foreign aircraft. Shough argues that quantifying the probabilities of such diverse hypotheses is impossible without a priori principles, which are not scientifically justified.
Kottmeyer finds Shough's stance to be sophistry, avoiding a definitive conclusion. He suggests Shough's work is an effort to preserve the Arnold case for ufology, avoiding discussion of the objects' dissimilarities to other UFO cases. Kottmeyer then introduces his own long-held observation about Arnold's description of the echelon formation being backward, suggesting it implies supersonic aircraft and shifts Arnold's sighting further from typical UFO phenomena.
Exchanging Broadsides! The Malmstrom Missile Shutdown Saga Heats Up
This section details a dispute between Robert Hastings and James Carlson regarding the Malmstrom missile shutdown incident. Hastings uses audio clips of interviews with Walt Figel and Fredrick Meiwald to challenge Carlson's assertion that no UFOs were involved. Hastings claims Figel provided a different response in his interviews. Carlson, however, contacts Figel again, who reiterates his original stance that UFOs were not involved and that Bob Salas was never associated with any missile shutdown. Figel states that his father, who was the flight commander of the 10th SMS, confirmed no incident occurred at November or Oscar, and that engineers tested possible problems at Norton AFB, with no little green men responsible.
Figel maintains that he has never believed in UFOs and that they had nothing to do with the Echo flight shutdown. He also notes that the event was not treated with unusual urgency or shock. Figel's statements, published in the Reality Uncovered blog, directly contradict Hastings' claims and the UFO hypothesis. The article also mentions that Hastings' presented recordings were not recent, suggesting a "bait and switch" tactic.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO evidence, the skepticism towards extraterrestrial explanations, and the exploration of alternative hypotheses such as psychosocial contagion and misidentification. The magazine appears to favor a rigorous, evidence-based approach, often challenging the claims made by ufologists and presenting scientific or mundane explanations for reported phenomena. The editorial stance leans towards debunking unsubstantiated claims and highlighting methodological flaws in UFO investigations, particularly when they rely on anecdotal evidence or unproven theories.
This issue of UFO Magazine, dated October 2010 (Volume 27, Issue 30), features a cover story titled "Jupiter sparks UFO reports" and includes articles critically examining UFOlogy, missile shutdowns, and media coverage of alleged UFO events. The magazine maintains a skeptical yet investigative tone, often questioning the evidence and methods presented by prominent figures in the UFO community.
Articles and Content
The Echo Flight Controversy and Robert Hastings
The issue delves into the ongoing debate surrounding missile shutdowns, particularly the Echo flight incident, and the role of Robert Hastings and Robert Salas. The author expresses skepticism about the official narrative, suggesting that Hastings may be misrepresenting events and witness accounts, such as those from Walt Figel. Figel's e-mails are presented, indicating a potential discrepancy in his statements to different parties. The article questions why Figel, who allegedly verified the UFO shutdown of missiles, was not invited to Hastings' press conference.
Richard Dolan's Shifting Stance
The article highlights a perceived "flip-flop" by UFOlogist Richard Dolan regarding the Echo flight incident. Initially, Dolan suggested that there was insufficient evidence to conclude it was a UFO event. However, after receiving comments, he revised his statement to suggest it was "probably the case." The author speculates that pressure from Hastings or other UFOlogists may have influenced Dolan's change of opinion, as Salas' claims rely on the Echo flight being a UFO incident.
'The Carlson Problem' and Bounty Hunting
Robert Hastings is described as initiating a campaign, termed 'The Carlson Problem,' to discredit James Carlson of Reality Uncovered. Hastings requested links showing Carlson calling him a liar or fraud, promising "payment" for assistance in establishing the truth about the Malmstrom incidents. Carlson, in response, labeled Hastings and Salas as liars and frauds, leading to questions about what Hastings might be hiding, particularly concerning his contacts with Walt Figel.
Media Coverage and Skepticism
The article critiques the media's limited coverage of Hastings' press conference on "UFOs and Nukes," noting the presence of only a few reporters from smaller outlets. It questions the legitimacy of some speakers at the event, including a self-proclaimed contactee and individuals making unsubstantiated claims. The author suggests that Hastings' actions are driven more by a desire for publicity than a serious discussion of evidence.
F.E. Warren AFB Missile Shutdown
A missile shutdown at F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming on October 23rd is discussed. The incident was attributed to electronic noise and computer errors, not UFOs. The article notes that Hastings has promised to investigate this event, with the author predicting he will attempt to link it to UFO sightings, despite a lack of evidence from surrounding areas.
Jupiter Sparks UFO Reports
Several instances are recounted where the planet Jupiter, particularly during its opposition in September, was mistaken for a UFO. Reports to MUFON and local authorities were attributed to Jupiter's bright appearance. One notable event involved a FOX station reporter who initially identified Jupiter as a UFO before closer examination revealed its true nature, with a possible internal reflection in the camera lens.
UFOs on the Tube: Critiques of TV Shows
This section reviews television programs about UFOs, specifically criticizing a show that focused on the "Bucks County flap." The author found the MUFON investigators featured to be biased, particularly Elisa Simon and John Ventre. The segment on Denise Murter, who claimed a UFO sprinkled dust on a tree, is questioned due to her misidentification of the moon and Jupiter in her UFO photographs. The investigation into Cliff Thomas's sighting is also criticized for relying on rumors and unverified FAA radar data.
Book Reviews
- The issue includes reviews of three books on the Roswell incident:
- "Roswell: Inconvenient facts and the will to believe" by Karl Pflock: Recommended as an excellent resource, particularly for its skeptical approach and assembly of documents.
- "The Real Roswell crashed-saucer coverup" by Philip Klass: Considered a good addition but not essential, focusing on fabricated tales and gullible writers.
- "The Roswell files" by Tim Shawcross: Dismissed as not providing new information and not worth purchasing.
Correction
A correction is made regarding a previous identification of a "point meteor" as a satellite glint, acknowledging the input of Ian Ridpath.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently questions the validity of UFOlogy claims, particularly when they lack empirical evidence or rely on anecdotal accounts. There is a strong emphasis on critical analysis of evidence, investigative methods, and the motivations of prominent figures in the UFO community. The editorial stance appears to favor a rational, evidence-based approach, often debunking sensational claims and highlighting potential biases or publicity-seeking behavior within the field. The magazine also seems to advocate for transparency and rigorous investigation, criticizing organizations like MUFON for perceived shortcomings in their methodologies. The theme of "will to believe" versus factual evidence is a recurring point of contention.