SUNlite - Vol 04 No 01

Magazine Overview

Title: SUNlite
Issue: Volume 4 Number 1
Date: January-February 2012
Publisher: SUNlite
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of SUNlite focuses on shedding light on ufology and UFOs, with a prominent cover story examining the "RB-47 case" as potentially UFOlogy's "best evidence." The cover features a striking image of a U.S. Air Force RB-47 bomber and includes a quote from Frank McClure, an ECM#2 on the RB-47, dated November 1, 1971, expressing his certainty that intercepted signals were related to UFOs.

The RB-47 Encounter: UFOlogy's "best case"

The main article, "The RB-47 Encounter: UFOlogy's 'best case'," by the magazine's author, details a year-long effort to review this significant UFO incident. The author was challenged by Paul Kimball to address the case, which skeptics were accused of ignoring. The author expresses respect for the air crew but acknowledges the possibility of errors or flawed memories. The article references conversations with Marty Kottmeyer, a skeptic, who found the review process amusing.

The article breaks down the RB-47 case into four phases: "The Up-scope incident," "The 1010Z encounter," "The approach to Duncanville," and "The Pursuit." It notes that the case was revived in the late 1990s by Brad Sparks, who claimed it was the first scientific proof of UFO existence, using calibrated electronic measurements. The author, however, expresses skepticism about Sparks' claims, suggesting they are hyperbolic and lack definitive proof that the signals originated from a UFO.

Technical Analysis of the RB-47 Case

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to a technical primer on the RB-47 aircraft and its equipment. The RB-47H was a bomber converted into an electronic intelligence gathering machine, equipped with specialized ECM (Electronic Counter Measures) officers known as "Ravens." The article details the crew members, including pilot Lewis Chase and ECM#2 Frank McClure. It discusses the aircraft's operational radius, speed capabilities, and the various antenna locations. The author analyzes the air speed of the RB-47, suggesting that estimates by Sparks and Klass might be exaggerated, and that the optimal speed for maximum fuel efficiency is around 380-440 knots, with a maximum allowable Mach number of 0.85.

The issue also examines the electronic environment the RB-47 flew into, detailing numerous air defense radars present at the time. A table lists various radar types, their frequency ranges, pulse widths, pulse repetition frequencies, and locations, including CPS-6B/FPS-10, WSR-1, and AN/APS-20. The article highlights the AN/CPS-6B and FPS-10 radar as particularly important, noting its multiple beams and ability to determine altitude.

UFOlogy and Skepticism in the Blogosphere

The "Who's blogging UFOs?" section discusses various recent topics and opinions within the ufology community. Robert Sheaffer is mentioned for his work on the Betty and Barney Hill story. The author debunks a sighting of "rod UFOs" during an NBC broadcast as likely time-lapsed airplanes. Another case involving a UFO video at a high school football game in Scottsdale, Arizona, is explained as a Halloween balloon event with skydivers. The article also covers a sighting in Lee's Summit, Missouri, which the author suggests might be related to military aircraft or the Geminid meteor shower. Other topics include reports from Seattle and Wisconsin, and a research project on abduction experiences announced by Kathleen Marden and Denise Stoner. The "Exeter Incident" is discussed, with an article in Skeptical Inquirer attributing it to USAF aerial refueling operations.

The Roswell Corner

This section addresses the ongoing discussions surrounding the Roswell incident. Kevin Randle is noted for assembling a "dream team" of investigators, including Don Schmitt, Tony Bragalia, Chris Rutkowski, and David Rudiak, to re-examine the case. The author expresses skepticism about the team's approach, suggesting it may rely on unsubstantiated rumors. A poll by Frank Borzelleri in Skeptical magazine is cited, characterizing believers in the Roswell alien crash as having religious beliefs, lower education levels, and conservative political views, a finding that contrasts with the author's own observations.

The section also touches upon claims of new debris found related to a crash on San Augustin and the controversial lie detector test results of Marcel, as reported by Tony Bragalia. The author expresses doubt about the reliability of Bragalia's methods and software.

Comments from my mail box

This section addresses reader feedback. Anthony Bragalia is mentioned regarding his research on the Wanaque sightings. James Moseley takes issue with a connection made between the Columbus UFO crash and Kecksburg. The author clarifies that the intent was to show how elements of different stories might surface in others. E-mails from Tom Wertmann and William Jones of Ohio MUFON correct the author's previous mention of "Paul Hill" as "Michael Lee Hill" in relation to the Lake Erie videos.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SUNlite revolve around the critical examination of UFO evidence, the role of skepticism in ufology, and the technical analysis of specific cases. The editorial stance is clearly that of a critical investigator, prioritizing verifiable facts and scientific rigor over anecdotal accounts and unsubstantiated claims. The author consistently seeks logical explanations for reported phenomena, often debunking sensationalist interpretations. There is a strong emphasis on debunking and providing rational explanations for alleged UFO sightings, while still acknowledging the complexity and enduring mystery of some cases. The magazine aims to provide a balanced perspective by presenting both the evidence and the skeptical counterarguments, encouraging readers to critically evaluate the information presented.

This issue of the magazine, identified as issue number 10 and volume 47, with a raw date of July 17th, 1957, focuses on the RB-47 incident, particularly "Phase I: The Up-scope incident" and "Phase 2: The 1010 Z encounter." The document delves into the technical and eyewitness accounts surrounding a series of anomalous radar signals and a visual UFO sighting experienced by an RB-47 crew.

The Up-scope Incident

The article begins by detailing the flight path of the RB-47, which originated from Forbes Air Force Base in Kansas and proceeded over the Gulf of Mexico for training exercises before heading north towards the Mississippi coast. Near the coast, ECM#2 Frank McClure reported a confusing radar signal that moved from the rear starboard quarter of his scope, up to the forward quarter ('up-scope'), then down the port side ('down-scope'). This behavior was considered unusual and unexplainable.

Phil Klass proposed an explanation that the detected signal was from the Keesler AFB CPS-6B radar, and a faulty relay in the ALA-6 system caused the signal to be reversed, appearing as an 'up-scope' instead of a 'down-scope' on the port side.

However, Brad Sparks raised several arguments against Klass's theory. Sparks contended that the aircraft crossed the coast west of Keesler at Gulfport, making an up-scope event with a faulty relay impossible. He also noted McClure's description of the signal orbiting the aircraft and that the Keesler radar was not in operation during the summer break. The article then scrutinizes these arguments, particularly the location of the coast crossing, suggesting that witness recollections from a decade prior might be imprecise, with Chase recalling crossing near Biloxi while others mentioned Gulfport.

Sparks' argument about the Keesler radar being non-operational is also challenged. The article presents information from ATC and interviews with Keesler AFB graduates, indicating that military training courses, including those for radar technicians operating the CPS-6B, ran year-round and in shifts, making it plausible that the radar was operational on the night of July 17, 1957.

Further analysis of the radar signal itself is presented. Martin Shough argued that the RB-47 would not have spent enough time in the radiation pattern of the CPS-6B to determine its revolution rate. However, the article suggests that the signal characteristics described by McClure near Duncanville, Texas, might reflect the signals seen in Texas, not necessarily the initial 'up-scope' incident. The frequency of the signal, near 2800 MHz, is discussed, and it's noted that an RB-47 equipped with an APR-9 could detect side lobes from a CPS-6B radar at a distance of up to 20 miles.

The 1010 Z Encounter

The second part of the incident occurred at 1010Z (0510 CDT) when the pilot and copilot saw a UFO at their 10 o'clock position, which moved to their 2 o'clock position and then vanished. McClure stated he began searching for the object after being alerted by another crew member about chasing flying saucers. Klass suggested the object might have been a bright meteor, noting that the waning gibbous moon could have washed out fainter stars and meteors. The sudden disappearance of the object is consistent with a meteor.

Colonel Chase initially responded to Klass's meteor theory by stating he did not rule out the possibility but considered it a "once in a lifetime occurrence." However, in a later exchange with Dr. Hynek, Chase disagreed with the meteor explanation, recalling the visual sighting as approaching head-on, requiring evasive action, and changing course rapidly. He stated the event was not like other meteors he had seen.

Brad Sparks also agreed with the meteor explanation, suggesting this part of the incident could be considered explained.

Radiosonde Data and Atmospheric Conditions

The issue includes detailed radiosonde data from Fort Worth, Shreveport, Oklahoma City, and Jackson, MS, for 1200 Zulu time, shortly after the plane passed through the area. This data is used to analyze atmospheric conditions, specifically temperature and dew point inversions, and the 'lapse rate,' which affects radio wave refraction. The data suggests potentially significant atmospheric conditions, including a temperature inversion in Oklahoma City and a decrease in dew point in Fort Worth, leading to a higher than normal lapse rate. The possibility of a "tropospheric duct" forming is raised, which could have played a role in the events.

Technical Analysis and Rebuttals

Table 6-7, "Trouble Analysis: Antenna Assemblies AS-655/ALA-6 and AS-656/ALA-6; Antenna Coupler CU-390/ALA-6," is presented, detailing potential causes and remedies for equipment malfunctions. The article discusses the difficulty in troubleshooting intermittent faults, using an anecdote about a faulty solder connection that caused anomalous signals.

Klass's theory of a faulty solenoid/relay (K-301) is revisited, with an engineer from Bendix suggesting it as a probable cause for the 180-degree ambiguity. McClure, however, disagreed, stating he never encountered such a malfunction in his extensive experience with the equipment.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the detailed investigation into a specific UFO/UAP event, the RB-47 incident, by presenting technical data, witness testimonies, and expert analyses. The magazine adopts a skeptical yet thorough approach, exploring conventional explanations such as equipment malfunction and natural phenomena (meteors, atmospheric conditions) before considering more extraordinary possibilities. The editorial stance appears to favor rational explanations, meticulously dissecting arguments and counter-arguments to arrive at the most plausible conclusion, while acknowledging the limitations of definitive proof in such cases. The emphasis is on rigorous analysis and the presentation of evidence, encouraging the reader to draw their own conclusions.

This document, identified as 'RB-47 Phase 3', delves into the analysis of a specific UFO incident involving an RB-47 aircraft. The issue focuses on reconstructing the flight path, interpreting radar signals, and scrutinizing the accounts of the pilot, Lewis Chase, and other involved parties. The primary goal is to determine the nature of the observed phenomena and the aircraft's actions during the encounter.

The approach to Duncanville

The article begins by examining the flight path of the RB-47 after a meteor/UFO event at 1010Z. The initial assumption of a 265-degree bearing towards Waco, Texas, based on 1957 reports, is questioned. Brad Sparks proposed a new approach, working backward from a potential UFO location northwest of Fort Worth. This method is critiqued for assuming the UFO remained stationary or moved predictably, rather than considering other possibilities.

Sparks's hypothesis that the RB-47 was flying on a magnetic bearing of 265 degrees, implying a true heading of due west at 1010Z, is analyzed. This contrasts with Chase's report of a 265-degree true heading. The article also discusses assumptions about the aircraft's speed, using Mach 0.75-0.87, and the complexities of maintaining a precise line of latitude due to upper-level winds.

Straight and narrow

The initial flight plan for the RB-47 was to navigate from Key Field to James Connally Air Force Base, requiring a true heading of 266.6 degrees. Chase's report indicates a turning point over Meridian and an ECM mission starting at Jackson, Mississippi. Maintaining a constant bearing was crucial for the sensor equipment, which measured bearing relative to the aircraft's heading. Deviations from a constant heading would complicate measurements.

The golden path?

Brad Sparks's flight path reconstruction is based on reaching a point northwest of Fort Worth, two minutes before 1050Z, where the UFO was sighted. The article questions whether the UFO remained stationary or moved, and if the estimated location was accurate. Sparks's interpretation of the 265-degree bearing as magnetic, implying a due west true heading, is discussed. This would mean the RB-47 was flying at approximately 271.5 degrees true heading. Sparks's assumptions about speed (Mach 0.75-0.87) are also examined, with reference to Chase's statements about speed changes and the aircraft's limitations (Mach 0.85 maximum).

Problems galore!

The article highlights the significant margins for error in reconstructing the flight path due to approximate times and limited data points. The RB-47's speed at Mach 0.74 means a thirty-second travel time can cause substantial changes in longitude and latitude. The report only provides the aircraft's heading at 1010Z and 1042Z, making it difficult to determine its exact movements between these times. The craft's final known position was southeast of Dallas-Fort Worth.

Course correction?

The 265-degree true heading is shown not to lead directly to Connally Field, but south of Waco. This suggests a potential course correction. The article proposes that the navigator might have adjusted the heading to compensate for expected upper-level winds. If the plane was on a 270-degree heading, it would be affected by winds from the north. A new heading, likely 270 degrees, would have been issued after 1010Z to compensate for errors, followed by a return to a 260-degree heading for Waco/Connally AFB. These corrections likely occurred between 1010Z and 1042Z.

A possible ground track

Chase mentioned adjusting his aircraft's speed between 1030Z and 1042Z, slowing down by about a hundred knots and then speeding up to maximum. This occurred while maintaining the same azimuth. The article notes that the pilot could not see directly below the aircraft, making it difficult to assess objects at low altitudes.

Radar signal characteristics

The article details the radar signals documented in the Piwetz report, noting characteristics such as frequency (2995-3000 MHz), pulse-width (2.0 µsec), pulse repetition frequency (600 pulse/sec), and sweep rate (4 RPM). It is noted that not all signals had identical characteristics. Frank McClure's notes and debriefing are discussed as the source of this information, with potential for error due to being hand-written and verbal.

The general consensus among the crew was that the actual frequency seen was around 2800 MHz. McClure's statements suggest multiple frequencies were involved, indicating a sweep over a range of frequencies rather than a single one. This implies the radar signals could have originated from a band of frequencies from 2700-3000 MHz or greater.

Tracking the beams

Around 1030Z, McClure began searching for radar signals similar to earlier ones, noting relative bearings. These bearings are presented in a table, with accuracy stated to be within 3-5 degrees. The values are relative to the aircraft's heading, requiring conversion to true azimuth. The article discusses potential sources for these signals, including the Duncanville and OKC radars, and also considers the Bartlesville FPS-10 radar and the Tulsa WSR-1.

Summary

The 'ghost light' incident is discussed in relation to the radar signals. There is no evidence that the light itself was emitting the signal. The article concludes that most, if not all, of the radiated signals likely came from terrestrial sources, suggesting that the only mysterious aspect was a nocturnal light that was difficult to identify. The case is questioned as solid evidence of anything exotic.

The RB-47 pursuit

The RB-47 pursuit is described as two segments: an initial approach towards Fort Worth and Dallas, followed by a 360-degree turn and departure. At 1042Z, the RB-47 turned northwest to pursue the UFO, accelerating to Mach 0.83. Chase's report indicates a true bearing of 320 degrees for this pursuit. The article questions the accuracy of the Mach 0.83 speed, suggesting Mach 0.85 was the maximum, and speeds above that could cause a high-speed stall.

The UFO/light was estimated to be 10 nautical miles northwest of Fort Worth. At 1050Z, the plane approached the light, which then disappeared from all sensors. Chase described the closure motion as due to his own flight speed, implying the unknown was stationary. He also stated he did not pass directly over it but flew to its right.

Eight minutes to Dallas

At 1042Z, the RB-47 turned northwest to pursue the UFO. Chase's UFO report states a 320-degree true bearing. The path to Dallas was made at maximum speed, with both Chase and Piwetz reporting acceleration to Mach 0.83. Chase later stated that Mach 0.83 might be an exaggeration, suggesting Mach 0.87-0.92. The aircraft's maximum speed is listed as Mach 0.85.

The UFO/light was estimated to be 10 nautical miles northwest of Fort Worth. At 1050Z, the object disappeared, and McClure lost the signal. Chase described the closure motion as due to his own flight speed, implying the UFO was stationary. He also noted that he flew to the right of the object.

Radar contact???

Sparks suggests the navigator, Maj. Thomas Hanley, briefly detected the UFO on his aircraft navigation radar (APS-23). However, Hanley told Dr. McDonald that he never tracked the UFO, stating he had search radar on but never had radar contact with the object. McCoid, the copilot, could not recall if the navigator obtained any radar return.

Chase's actual report from 1957 states they were unsuccessful in tracking the UFO with the plane's airborne radar. The article concludes that there was likely no tracking of the UFO with the airplane's radar.

1050Z is where???

This section discusses the RB-47's possible position at 1050Z. Without the navigator's log, assumptions must be made. The aircraft could only travel at Mach 0.85 (approximately 9.7 miles/min), limiting its displacement. The computed path places the 1050Z mark close to the Duncanville radar site. The disappearance of the radar signal for McClure is attributed to the plane's proximity to the Duncanville radar, causing the signal to be lost or weakened.

Round and round we go

After overflying the UFO, Chase began looking for it again, initiating a turn to port to make another pass. This turn likely began between 1050Z and 1052Z. The Piwetz account describes Chase seeing a light/UFO at 1052Z and making a dive, which then disappeared within 5 NM. The article questions the accuracy of this account, noting that Chase's description of the maneuver might be misinterpreted.

The Departure

At 1102Z, with low fuel, Chase turned the RB-47 towards Forbes AFB near Topeka, Kansas. The UFO's fate remains unknown. The article notes that no fighters were dispatched to investigate. The Piwetz report indicates the radar signal was observed returning towards Forbes AFB.

RB-47s are not dive bombers

This section challenges Chase's account of diving the RB-47 from 34,500 feet to 15,000-20,000 feet in a minute. The B-47 operations manual indicates that steep dives were limited due to the aircraft's design and potential for buffeting. The manual outlines a descent procedure with a maximum rate but not exceeding Mach 0.82, suggesting a descent angle of less than 10 degrees. Chase's description of a 17-degree angle is deemed inaccurate. McClure also expressed doubt about the dive ever happening.

Dr. McDonald's interview notes with copilot McCoid also suggest the maneuver did not occur as described. The article proposes alternative scenarios for the altitude change, including a descent starting at 1042Z or a descent over a three-to-four-minute period before 1052Z, consistent with landing descent rates.

Radar signal analysis

This section analyzes various radar signal bearings recorded in the Piwetz report. The signals at 1042.5Z and 1044Z are discussed in relation to the RB-47's heading and potential radar sources like Duncanville, OKC, Bartlesville, and Tulsa. The loss of signal at 1050Z is explained by the plane's proximity to the Duncanville radar. The reappearance of the signal after leaving the radar site is also analyzed.

The article concludes that, except for a potential anomaly at 1044Z, the radar signals have reasonable explanations and were likely not mysterious. The primary mystery remains the vanishing lights.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical analysis of eyewitness accounts and technical data related to a UFO incident. The authors meticulously dissect flight path reconstructions, radar signal interpretations, and pilot testimonies, often highlighting discrepancies and questioning assumptions. There is a clear editorial stance favoring rational, terrestrial explanations for the observed phenomena, while acknowledging the persistent mystery of the vanishing lights. The article emphasizes the importance of considering margins of error, wind effects, and the limitations of aircraft and sensor equipment in interpreting such events. The overall tone is investigative and skeptical, aiming to demystify the incident by applying scientific and logical reasoning.

This issue of "UFOlogy" focuses on the complex and controversial RB-47 incident that occurred on July 17, 1957. The magazine delves into the details of the encounter, presenting various reports, analyses, and theories surrounding the event. The primary focus is on dissecting the evidence and arguments presented by both proponents and skeptics of the UFO hypothesis.

The RB-47 Incident: A Deep Dive

The issue begins by detailing the aftermath of the RB-47's return to Forbes AFB, highlighting contradictory reports and apparent errors. The Duncanville CIRVIS report is scrutinized, noting its claims of the RB-47 chasing a UFO and the navigator's denial of radar contact. The report also questions the accuracy of the speed and altitude data provided.

Debriefing and Official Reports

The debriefing of the crew by intelligence officer Piwetz is examined, pointing out several inaccuracies in his report, such as the location of the 'up-scope' incident and the number of UFOs sighted. Major Chase's subsequent UFO report is also analyzed, with several points noted as incorrect, including the presence of a moon and radar contact.

The 'Flight 966' Myth

A significant portion of the analysis is dedicated to debunking the theory that the UFO was an airliner, specifically American Airlines Flight 966. Phil Klass's research is presented, which initially suggested the landing lights of Flight 966 caused the visual sightings. However, further investigation by Brad Sparks determined that Flight 966 could not have been in the area at the specified time, casting doubt on this explanation.

Object Characteristics and Theories

The issue discusses the characteristics of the observed object, noting it was described as a bright light with a small angular size. Various potential sources for the light are explored, including the moon, auroras, astronomical objects, trains, and even city lights. The possibility of gas burn-off flames from industrial plants is also considered.

Skeptical Analysis and Counterarguments

Brad Sparks' claim that the RB-47 case is 'irrefutable' and the evidence 'unassailable' is challenged. The author questions the consistency of the radar signals, the lack of proof that they originated from an unknown intelligence, and the small angular size of the visual sighting. The absence of other corroborating reports from potential witnesses in the area is also highlighted as a significant point against the UFO conclusion.

The Condon Study and 'Best Evidence'

The Condon study's conclusion that the case could not be explained is mentioned, but the author cautions against interpreting this as proof of a supernatural event or intelligence. The claim that the RB-47 case is the 'best UFO case ever' is critically examined, with the author suggesting that the evidence is inadequate to support such a conclusion and that the case may have received undue attention due to its 'flavor of the month' status.

Related Incidents and Investigations

The article touches upon other RB-47 encounters from 1955, noting that while they involved radar contacts, they lacked visual sightings or sufficient detail to be definitively linked to the 1957 incident. The investigation into the Echo Flight shutdown incident is also mentioned, with Lewis Chase's initial denial of UFO involvement being contrasted with later accusations of a cover-up.

UFOlogy's Approach

The issue critiques the approach of some UFOlogists, particularly Brad Sparks, for setting high standards for skepticism while seemingly accepting less rigorous evidence for UFOs. The article suggests that the focus on creating mysteries rather than conducting rigorous scientific research is a common trait in UFOlogy.

Book Reviews

Several book reviews are included: "Psychic Vibrations" by Robert Sheaffer is recommended, "UFO Crash Secrets at Wright/Patterson Air Force Base" by James Moseley is considered worth checking out, and "Situation Red: The UFO Siege" by Leonard Stringfield is deemed not worth reading.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO evidence, the role of skepticism in UFO research, and the analysis of potential cover-ups or misinterpretations. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious skepticism, favoring logical explanations and questioning claims that lack robust scientific backing. The author advocates for a more rigorous and evidence-based approach to UFO investigation, suggesting that many cases, including the RB-47 incident, may be explained by conventional means or are simply not well-documented enough to draw definitive conclusions.