Sussex Circular - 1994 no 31

Magazine Overview

Title: Sussex Circular
Issue: 31
Date: July 1994
Publisher: Centre for Crop Circle Studies (Sussex Branch)
Content: This issue of the Sussex Circular magazine delves into crop circle phenomena, UFO reports, and debates surrounding their origins, featuring detailed analyses, personal accounts, and critical reviews.

News and Reports

Crop Formation Analysis

The magazine provides in-depth reports on several crop formations from 1994. The formation at Birling Gap, East Sussex, described as 'The Egg, The Tear & The Slice' in barley, is detailed with measurements and observations of unusual stalk bending at 180 degrees, forming 'nests' of crop. The damage was not consistent with human, animal, or bird activity, leading to speculation about unknown phenomena. Another formation, the 'Dumbbell with ringed oval' at Falmer, East Sussex, also in barley, exhibited similar stalk damage and tramline interactions. The issue also features a 'Celtic Cross (almost)' formation in Hillsboro, Oregon, USA, noted for its dowsing energy and lights seen the previous night. A 7-year-old's notebook extract details the survey of a ringed circle at Sompting.

'Project Sky' and Anomalous Lights

A report by Andy Thomas details the 'Project Sky' event on July 1st, 1994, at Cissbury Ring, where CCCS Sussex members gathered for a 'tune-in' to the 'circlemakers'. During the event, unusual atmospheric conditions and a bright white aerial object were observed. Linda Reynolds recounts her personal sighting of a similar object, noting its size and silent, anticlockwise movement, and experiencing physical sensations like pins and needles. The issue calls for others who may have had similar sightings to come forward.

Debates on Hoax Theories

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a discussion and critique of crop circle hoax theories. John Rollinger writes about his skepticism regarding the claims made by John Macnish and Colin Andrews, particularly concerning the testimony of Doug Bower and Dave Chorley. Rollinger argues that while hoaxing may account for some formations, it does not explain the majority, and dismisses the 'A Team' theory as unsubstantiated. He emphasizes the need to consider the 'luminosities, anomalies and so-called 'coincidences'' that set the phenomenon apart from easily explainable events.

Ronald Thomas examines the 'stalk-bending effect', proposing that the formations might be created by manipulating space-time rather than applying physical force. He suggests experiments to detect residual time dilation or gravitational anomalies. He also reviews an ITN news report on crop circles, noting its attempt to present a balanced view but ultimately leaning towards debunking, while also acknowledging the enduring mystery of the phenomenon.

Other Reports and Reviews

There are brief mentions of other crop formations and related events, including a review of a book by John Macnish and a profile of Arthur Luther Pendragon, who is presented as a modern-day King Arthur fighting for access to sacred sites and against countryside destruction. The magazine also includes a report on the Portland Celtic Cross formation in Oregon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Sussex Circular strongly advocates for the existence of a genuine, unexplained phenomenon behind many crop circles, while critically examining claims of hoaxing. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging detailed investigation and discouraging premature conclusions based on limited evidence. There is a clear skepticism towards simplistic explanations and a belief that the phenomenon is far more complex than often portrayed. The magazine aims to provide a platform for researchers and enthusiasts to share their findings and perspectives, fostering a community dedicated to understanding these enigmatic events. The recurring theme is the persistent mystery of crop circles and the ongoing effort to decipher their origins and meaning, whether terrestrial or otherwise.