TUFOIC Newsletter - No 087 - 2000

Magazine Overview

This issue of the TUFOIC NEWSLETTER, Edition 87, dated March 2000, focuses on a review of UFO activity in Tasmania during 1999 and presents statistical data. The newsletter is published by TUFOIC, based in South Hobart, Tasmania, Australia, and is written in English.

1999 in Review

The year 1999 is highlighted as having the lowest percentage of unidentified sightings since TUFOIC's formation in 1965, at 4.9%. The article notes the increasing use of computer investigatory tools, satellite tracking programs, and the internet, which have helped resolve many cases that might have previously remained unexplained. It suggests that many reported sightings, particularly those found on UFO lists or the internet, may have mundane explanations if investigated thoroughly. An example provided is a sighting of a bright light near a country town, which was later identified as the Russian Space Station MIR crossing the earth's shadow alongside Jupiter. The article posits that with the addition of new information and investigative tools, many older, previously unexplained sightings might now be solved.

Tasmanian Statistics 1999

The newsletter provides a statistical breakdown of UFO reports in Tasmania for 1999. Out of 102 total reports, only 5 were classified as 'Unidentified'. The majority of reports were attributed to Astronomical (47), Satellites (20), and Balloons (7). The article also includes a historical table of UFO reports and unidentified cases from 'Pre 1965' up to 1999, showing fluctuations in reported numbers and unidentified percentages over the decades.

Average Investigations and Unexplained Percentages

TUFOIC notes that the average number of investigations per year since 1965 is 95, with an unexplained percentage of 19%. It explains that this higher historical percentage is somewhat distorted because older cases, when reported years later, are more likely to be of a higher strangeness level and thus classified as unidentified. Conversely, mundane sightings are less likely to be reported long after the event.

Astronomical and Satellite Explanations

In the previous year, astronomical and satellite explanations accounted for 60% of the reports. A notable unusual report from the year involved flashing blue lights seen on an irrigation system alongside the Midland Highway.

TUFOIC Annual Report and Publication Changes

The year 2000 marks the first time in 30 years that TUFOIC has not produced its own Annual Report on time, citing difficulties in recent years. The organization has now adopted the 'Australian Ufologist' for the publication of its investigations and news, offering a high-quality publication quarterly. Despite an increase in fees and a small drop in membership, this change is seen as beneficial for members.

Key UFO Sightings in Tasmania (1999)

The newsletter details several specific UFO sightings from 1999:

• January 17th, 01:15 am, Granton: Four round, moon-sized, glowing golden circles were observed moving over the river, described as looking like wheels with glowing spokes and bright patches of light, pulsing in unison.
• July 5th, 7:40 pm, Ross: A rectangular structure, about the size of a house and illuminated by an orange glow, was seen rising and tilting at an angle before fading out of sight. No unusual marks or traces were found at the location.
• August 12th, 6:10 pm, Franklin: A star-like white light was observed to halt in the sky, move north then south, and then gain elevation before being lost from sight.
• September 17th, 8:10 pm, George Town: A resident reported seeing a bright white light and a green/red flashing light that appeared to merge and then retrace their paths. Astronomical and aircraft explanations were ruled out.
• December 29th, 1 am, Port Arthur: A cluster of star-like lights was observed moving in a confined area in the north-west sky, with no audible noise. The lights were obscured by a nearby house's roof.

China Has the First UFO of the New Millennium

The issue also reports on early UFO sightings of the year 2000:

• January 1st, 2000, Beijing: A silver-gray UFO, described as a daylight disc, appeared over the Great Wall of China and was captured by CNN cameras. Eyewitnesses described it as a gray orb floating and moving without apparent means of propulsion.
• December 11th, 1999, Pusalu: Villagers reported an object the size of a person, shimmering with golden light, moving slowly up into the sky from the mountains, described as 'like someone flying up to heaven.'

Expert Opinions on UFO Research

The article includes quotes from Chinese experts: Shen Shituan, a rocket scientist, stated that some sightings are real, some fake, and others unclear, but all phenomena are worth researching. Sun Shili, president of the government-approved UFO Association, believes that research into UFOs can spur advancements in high-speed travel, energy sources, and agriculture.

TUFOIC Publications

A list of available TUFOIC publications is provided, including catalogues of Tasmanian UFO sightings and landings, specific case documents (Cressy, Maatsuyker Island, North-East Tasmania), and annual reports. All prices include return postage within Australia.

Meeting Announcement

A meeting is announced for Thursday, March 30th, at 7:30 PM at the Glenorchy Library. The program includes details of recent Tasmanian UFO sightings, a members' forum, and a video presentation of UFO footage from around the world, including a local sighting.

Important Information and Disclaimer

Attendees are reminded that they enter the premises at their own risk, as the Library and TUFOIC do not carry public liability insurance. TUFOIC, being an unincorporated body, accepts no responsibility for any injury, damage, or loss of property incurred on the premises.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently focuses on UFO sightings and investigations within Tasmania, presenting statistical data and detailed case studies. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, utilizing scientific and technological advancements to investigate and explain phenomena, while acknowledging the persistent mystery surrounding some sightings. The shift to publishing with the 'Australian Ufologist' indicates a move towards broader dissemination of their findings. The emphasis on statistics and case reviews suggests a methodical approach to the subject matter.