UFO Brigantia issue 40

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO BRIGANTIA
Issue: no.40
Date: November 1989
Publisher: IUN PUBLICATION
Type: A JOURNAL OF UFO INVESTIGATION.

Editorial: Still Waiting For The Landing

The editorial section, written by Dennis Stacy, critically examines the media frenzy surrounding the purported UFO landing in Voronezh, Russia, in October 1989. Stacy questions the swift acceptance of the Tass report by Western media, suggesting it might be a propaganda coup or a reflection of the media's eagerness for sensational stories, especially given the current 'Glasnost' era. He points out the absurdity of 12ft tall aliens leaving behind 'alien rocks' and notes the lack of corroborating evidence from independent sources. The article highlights how such stories, regardless of their veracity, are used to support pre-existing theories within ufology, which the author describes as 'bizarre' and difficult to get to the bottom of.

Stacy contrasts this incident with the earlier Kenneth Arnold sighting in 1947, which he notes was the 'snowball that launched an avalanche' of UFO reports. He criticizes the tendency for media outlets to sensationalize and misinterpret events, especially when dealing with UFOs. The editorial concludes by expressing skepticism towards the Voronezh incident, suggesting it's more likely a product of human imagination or misinterpretation rather than genuine alien visitation, and that the media's gullibility is a recurring theme.

"ET OR NOT ET? Is That The Question?" by D. & T. M. Barclay

This article by D. & T. M. Barclay argues that ufology, as it currently stands, is not a rigorous science but rather a collection of anecdotal reports and 'tales of the unexpected.' They propose a redefinition of ufology as the 'study of reports derived from individuals claiming interaction with an unidentified phenomena, occasionally seen flying.' Consequently, ufologists are characterized as individuals who form supporter clubs to discuss these reports.

The authors contend that the 'ET Hypothesis' (Extraterrestrial Hypothesis) has been a distraction, preventing a deeper understanding of the UFO phenomenon. They suggest that the true reality of UFOs lies not in their physical origin but in their profound sociological and psychological impact on human culture. The appearance of UFOs is linked to the decline of Orthodox Religion and the Victorian worldview, suggesting they serve as a modern form of 'space-age mythology' that helps humanity come to terms with a universe lacking absolutes.

Drawing on the work of C. G. Jung, who proposed the 'mythological' aspect of UFOs in 1959, the authors argue that figures like Dr. Jaques Vallee have supported this view. They note that even Professor J. Allen Hynek, initially focused on the 'ET Hypothesis,' eventually acknowledged the broader scientific, sociological, psychological, and theological aspects of the phenomenon. The article criticizes the modern resurgence of 'Establishment Conspiracy' theories and the 'Hangar 18' hangup, suggesting that the UFO phenomenon is best understood as a global cultural initiative rather than a search for alien spacecraft.

UFOs & The CIA: THE Early Years by Dennis Stacy

This article by Dennis Stacy details the early involvement of the U.S. government and military in investigating UFO reports, beginning with the Kenneth Arnold sighting in 1947. The phrase 'flying saucers' quickly became part of the Cold War consciousness, leading to the establishment of Project Sign at Wright-Patterson Air Force base in December 1947. The project's objective was to collect and evaluate information concerning atmospheric phenomena that could be construed as a concern to national security.

Dr. J. Allen Hynek, an astronomer from Ohio State University, was hired as a consultant by the Air Force. He recounts how the Air Force initially treated UFOs as an intelligence matter, attempting to explain away most cases (96%) and becoming embarrassed when they couldn't. Hynek's experience led him to become a proponent of UFO research, founding the Centre for UFO Studies (CUFOS).

The article highlights the CIA's involvement, particularly the formation of the Robertson Panel in January 1953. This panel, composed of distinguished scientists, reviewed UFO cases and evidence, including film strips of alleged flying saucers. Despite their scientific expertise, the Panel's recommendations focused on national security and psychological aspects rather than definitive conclusions about the nature of UFOs. They ruled that UFOs did not constitute a direct physical threat to national security but warned that the continued reporting of UFOs could be a 'soft spot' in the collective national consciousness, potentially manipulated by adversaries like the Soviets. The Panel recommended stripping UFOs of their 'special status' and integrating their study into broader intelligence and public education efforts.

The article notes that the CIA maintained its only involvement was through the Robertson Panel, despite subsequent releases of UFO-related documents by the FBI and other agencies. The Panel's conclusion that UFO reports posed a danger to the 'orderly functioning of the protective organs of the body politic' is emphasized, suggesting a shift from investigating potential alien threats to managing public perception and fear.

HELP!

This section is a call for information regarding carved stone heads, particularly those found in the north of England. It is presented as a non-UFO research project and asks readers to contact the editor or assistant editor with any information about the whereabouts of such heads.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO BRIGANTIA adopts a critical and skeptical stance towards sensationalized UFO reports, particularly those amplified by the media. The editorial and the article on the Voronezh incident strongly question the veracity of claims and highlight the role of media sensationalism and potential propaganda. The magazine also presents a more academic perspective on ufology, suggesting it is more of a sociological and psychological phenomenon than a direct investigation of extraterrestrial visitation. The article on the CIA's involvement underscores the government's historical approach to UFOs, focusing on national security and public perception management rather than definitive proof of alien presence. The overall tone is one of critical inquiry, encouraging readers to question official narratives and media portrayals of UFO phenomena.

This issue of UFO Brigantia, dated November 1989, features a cover story titled "A MARS A DAY HELPS YOU WORK, REST.... AND MEET ALIENS!" by Ian Blake. The magazine delves into various aspects of ufology, including the controversial topic of contactees, the historical context of light phenomena, and reviews of relevant books.

The Contactee Enigma and Diet

The lead article by Ian Blake explores the polarized opinions surrounding UFO contactees. It questions whether diet plays a role in the contactee syndrome, noting that many celebrated contactees, such as Whitley Strieber, have a history of consuming sweets. The article draws parallels with John Lennon's accounts of needing to eat ice cream buns to achieve a certain state of being for communication, and John Keel's observation that some contactees favor a high starch diet. Lydia Stalnaker and 'Delphine' are also mentioned as individuals whose diets were addressed in their encounters. The article even touches upon Hitler's documented passion for sweets and chocolate, stretching a point to link it to mediumistic powers, and suggests H.P. Lovecraft's diet might have led to encounters with 'outer entities'.

Extreme dietary changes are presented as a staple in contactee lore. Lydia Stalnaker was instructed to improve her nutrition, while Howard Menger was told to become a vegetarian. Elizabeth Klarer also adopted a similar regimen. John and Elaine Avis became vegetarians after seeing a UFO. The article posits that close encounters can prompt a move towards a more balanced lifestyle. It also considers the possibility that subconscious anxiety or the mind's tendency to dramatize internal states could be responsible for these experiences, rather than external 'alien forces'. Furthermore, it's suggested that chocolate and carbohydrates, in extreme cases, might trigger contactee-related hallucinations, with one anecdote about a climber's specific chocolate preferences.

However, the article acknowledges that malnutrition can also lead to hallucinations, highlighting the contradictory nature of UFO research. It also references Ivan Stang's "High Weirdness By Mail," which surveys cult mentality and includes sections on UFO contactees and Jesus contactees, noting the belief that "Biblical manna tastes like fudge."

Pennine Lights and Other Sightings

The magazine features a section on "Pennine Lights," detailing sightings in the West Yorkshire area. These reports describe between two and five bright white light sources performing complex maneuvers, including instantaneous movement and changes in color and formation. A specific incident on May 28, 1989, involved a company director and his wife witnessing two bright lights behaving unusually. Another report details a call from a Halifax witness who observed lights for three consecutive nights, leading to an investigation in the Withens area. The author, accompanied by a witness, observed a similar display of lights, including one that moved towards their location before ascending rapidly.

An investigation into these sightings involved searching IUNS files, using the ASTRONOMER 11 computer system for skyplots, and appealing to the public for more information. Regular skywatches are planned, though initial photographic attempts yielded underexposed negatives. The article concludes that "There is something going on," but leaves open the possibility of mundane explanations or misperceptions.

The Night Battles: Folklore and Light Phenomena

David Clarke's article, "The Night Battles," examines the historical context of light phenomena, predating the "UFO Age" of 1947. It highlights how people in pre-space-age societies interpreted these phenomena within traditional folklore and myth. Beliefs about mystery lights originating from beneath the ground are common, linked to the spirit world, burial mounds, and ancient sanctity. Examples include Irish folklore of the 'sidh-mounds,' Scandinavian and German beliefs in 'dwellers in the mounds,' and 'cairn fires' in Icelandic sagas. Norwegian folklore speaks of islands lit by blue lights from underground people, guarding treasures.

The article notes that such beliefs persist, with accounts of 'death lights' and 'treasure lights' from the Outer Hebrides and the 'Lights of Crusheen' in southwest Ireland, described as uncanny flames in the sky. Mr. Eddie Lenihan, a local historian, has documented interviews with people who have seen these lights. The article also touches upon the Anglo-Saxon belief in fiery dragons guarding burial mounds and Professor Glob's research on Bronze Age burials in Denmark, where lights were seen burning near mounds thought to contain treasure.

F.L. Feilburg's 1895 writings describe lights seen on hills and ruins in Denmark, interpreted as warnings or treasure lights, possibly linked to ancient pagan beliefs. M.J. Walhouse writes of "spooklights" in India, called "Bhutni" (from Bhuta, a goblin), and similar phenomena in Burma attributed to wizards. In Malaysia, "spooklights" are believed to be evil spirits. The article suggests these beliefs are connected to the ancient idea that spiritual light is perceived by the soul rather than the physical body.

It further explores the "Celtic peoples'" belief in supernatural powers inherent in the human head, linking it to phenomena like the "Hexham Heads" and associated "mysterious bright light" and a "werewolf" type creature. The article draws parallels between these shamanic journeys and UFO abduction accounts, noting similarities in experiences like encountering brilliant light, entering altered states of consciousness, and receiving symbolic imagery.

Historical Context and UFO Mythology

The article "The Night Battles" emphasizes the importance of understanding historical beliefs to contextualize present UFO mythology. It argues that many ufologists interpret experiences solely through the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis, lacking a broader historical perspective. The article cites Knud Rasmussen's work on the "Intellectual Culture of the Iglulik Eskimos," describing shamanic experiences involving a mysterious, inexplicable light that grants insight. It also references Dr. Field's research on the Ga people of the Gold Coast, who believe witches can use a light that appears as a fiery glow or a ball of fire.

Dr. Meek's work on Nigerian tribes describes witches appearing as balls of fire. The article notes similar beliefs in the New World, with a Penobscot Indian describing a tremendous ball of fire. In the Pacific, natives of Rangiroa believe in a fireball spirit called "Kaha." Hawaiian natives believe in "Akualele" or 'flying spirits,' which are balls of light seen as ancestral spirits. The Wiradjeri aborigines of New South Wales believe phantom lights are evil sorcerers. The article also mentions Evans Pritchard's work on "Witchcraft Among the Azande," where witches send their souls out at night emitting a bright light.

It highlights the similarity between these beliefs and "warning lights" and "corpse candles" in Celtic areas, suggesting a specific "state of mind" is required to perceive them. The Welsh "Revival Lights" of 1904-05 are presented as another catalyst for geophysic lightforms. The article compares Mary Jones, connected to the Welsh Lights, with tribal shamans. Holger Kalweits's description of shamans achieving illumination through meditation and sensory deprivation, resulting in an 'out of the body experience' where the soul appears as a brilliant light, is presented as analogous to UFO abduction accounts.

Book Review: The UFO Report 1990

The magazine includes a review of "The UFO Report 1990," edited by Timothy Good. The reviewers, Dave Clarke and Andy Roberts, express disappointment with the book, describing it as a mixture of "cover-up, leavened with some New Age corn and topped with a few nuts and bolts." The review focuses on the first chapter, "A British Perspective 1988," by Graham and Mark Birdsall of the Yorkshire UFO Society (YUFOS). The reviewers criticize the chapter for being a "sparse cut and paste job" of newspaper cuttings and vague reports, with little analysis or investigation. They point out that many sightings presented as unexplained are likely mundane phenomena, such as aircraft lights or flares. The review highlights a case involving two policemen in Sheffield who reported a bright red light, which was later confirmed to be a flare. The reviewers question the seriousness of other reports given the shoddy investigation methods.

The review also notes that YUFOS members claim to have seen UFOs on numerous occasions, but the article suggests that many of these sightings coincided with periods of heavy low-flying aircraft and refuelling exercises.

Let's Get Weird

This section features an extract from Ivan Stang's "Book of the Sub-Genius," offering a philosophical perspective on UFOs. Stang describes UFOs as "inert without the energy of human belief" and as reflections of human expectations. He uses the metaphor of casting pebbles into a pond to explain how human interaction creates distortion. The section concludes with a quote from C. G. Jung about how legends are formed and the growth of miraculous takes from attempted interventions by "extra-terrestrial 'haevenly' powers" during times of human fantasy considering space travel.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the nature of UFO contactees and the potential influence of diet, the historical and folkloric roots of phenomena now interpreted as UFOs (particularly light phenomena), and a critical examination of UFO investigative practices. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, acknowledging the strangeness of reported phenomena while questioning conventional interpretations and investigative rigor. There is a clear emphasis on historical context and the potential for misinterpretation or cultural overlay in UFO reports. The magazine encourages a deeper, more analytical approach to ufology, moving beyond simplistic explanations and media-driven narratives.

This issue of UFO BRIGANTIA, dated November 1989, focuses heavily on abduction phenomena and critical reviews of contemporary UFO literature and research. The cover headline, "Abduction News," sets the tone, with a subtitle referencing the BUFORA/ICUR Congress 1989 Abduction Panel Report. The magazine presents a critical perspective on the state of ufology, questioning the methodologies and claims of prominent researchers and organizations.

Editorial Stance and Key Themes

The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards sensationalism and a call for more rigorous, evidence-based research. The magazine critiques what it perceives as the 'pop ufology' imported into Britain, particularly the tendency to believe in government cover-ups without sufficient evidence. Themes explored include government conspiracy, disinformation, the nature of abduction experiences, and the scientific investigation of anomalous phenomena.

Article Summaries

Page 1-2: Review of a Book (Likely 'UFOs and Government Conspiracy' based on context)

The review begins by questioning the majority of UFO sightings, suggesting they are mundane. It criticizes the implication of government involvement in tracking UFO reports, arguing authorities are largely uninterested. The reviewer dismisses Graham Birdsall's explanation of West Yorkshire sightings as military helicopters during the miners' strike, citing a lack of evidence and the proximity of the Orgreave strike. The reviewer notes the book's reliance on hearsay and 'friend of a friend' stories, labeling it 'UFO folklore.' A quote from Tim Good, the book's editor, highlights the organization's belief in a government cover-up and the pursuit of 'real truth.'

Chapter two, by Ralph Noyes, reviews the Rendlesham Forest mystery, finding it workmanlike but unlikely to change minds. The reviewer criticizes the discussion of the Halt tape as not addressing its 'amateurish 'B' movie nature.'

Chapter three, by George Wingfield, discusses cornfield circles, suggesting connections to 'Earth energies,' 'UFOs,' 'Time Travellers,' 'ley lines,' and 'chanellers.' The reviewer finds this speculative and dismisses it as 'New Age stuff.'

Chapter four, 'So You Want to be a Ufologist?', is described as brief and to the point but not helpful for aspiring ufologists.

Chapter five, by Cynthia Hind, examines African ufology, with cases that seem to contradict her belief in ETs, suggesting ufology is as disparate there as elsewhere. Chapters five and six cover UFOs in the USSR and China, offering little beyond the observation that lights are seen there too.

Page 2-3: Continued Review and General Critique

The review continues by stating that UFO cases in other countries are as appalling as those in chapter one, likening the book to a 'UFO travelogue.' Chapter six is described as a pedestrian plod through the Nullarbor plains case, suggesting a weather phenomenon as a more likely solution.

Len Stringfield is mentioned for a reprint of MUFON Journal articles on the 'crash/retrieval mythos,' characterized as 'fairy stories' for those who enjoy 'Dan Dare.' The reviewer notes the common themes of deathbed confessions, landed craft, military activity, and suspicious deaths.

The Gulf Breeze case is revisited, with the reviewer noting the absence of proof and its destined status for 'BIG NAME UFO mythology.' While the story is told chronologically and seems accurate, analysis is lacking. The reviewer criticizes Donald Ware's assertion that Gulf Breeze sightings and photographs are proof of alien visitation, citing the demonstrated technology as merely lights.

The reviewer concludes that the book is generally 'nostalgic ufology,' focused on the 1950s and the idea of 'WE ARE NOT ALONE.' It is deemed misleading and intellectually dishonest, failing to provide an overview of significant recent events. Instead, it favors sensationalism and intimation over fakes, misperceptions, and contradictions. The reviewer calls for a more mature approach, acknowledging that the 'real story can be told.'

Page 3: Twinkles, Gossip, Book News & Dirty Laundry

Allan Staithes' column covers various UFO-related news items:

• Gulf Breeze Saga: 'Living Today' in the Miami Herald reports on 'Mr Ed' sticking to his story, with a book advance of $200,000. Physicist Bruce Maccabbee is set to receive 10% of the book. Several photographic experts reportedly validate UFO photos for $20,000. The saga is being considered for a TV mini-series.
• Quote of the Year: A quote attributed to Walt Andrus, head of America's MUFON, suggests Bigfoot could be experimental animals brought by UFO aliens for environmental testing before colonization.
• 'Space Shuttle Hoax': The 'space shuttle hoax' from a previous issue is now being interpreted by some ufologists as a disinformation message beamed onto the shuttle's wavelength from National Security HQ.
• Whitley Strieber: Fans can subscribe to 'The Communion Newsletter' for $30 per year, offering 'tantalizing headings' and contactee-like information.
• Cornfield Circles: The soap opera 'Emmerdale Farm' featured a storyline about cornfield circles, which was subsequently mowed down before it could be photographed.
• Misrepresented Cases: The column criticizes the ufologist tactic of 'the misrepresented case,' using an example from YUFOs' 'Twenty Twenty Vision' where an artist's impression of the Gran Canaria UFO disguised an 'etoilated light phenomena' as a saucer.
• Roswell Crash Retrieval: Bill Moore, Stanton Friedman, and Jaime Shandera are reportedly airing the Roswell crash retrieval case again.
• UFO Insurance: 'The Sun' reports that 6,000 customers have bought a joke insurance policy against being kidnapped by UFO-flying aliens from Mike St Lawrence's firm.

Page 4-5: Abduction News - BUFORA/ICUR Congress 1989 Abduction Panel Report

This section details the protocol developed by an abduction panel at the BUFORA International UFO Congress. The panel aimed to create a useful, though not definitive, protocol for abduction research. The report lists twelve symptoms to help recognize a potential abduction, emphasizing that these should emerge spontaneously from the witness.

The symptoms include:

1. UFO Seen: A UFO being a stimulus considered unexplained by the witness.
2. Missing Time: Reported directly by the witness and independently corroborated.
3. Anomalous Effect on the Physical Environment: Sudden, unexpected physical location changes, inexplicable marks on vehicles, etc.
4. Change in World View Reported by Witness: Increased interest in ecology, dramatic increase in scientific knowledge, or unexpected spiritual outlook.
5. Enhanced Psychic Abilities Reported by Witness: Anomalous ESP states, sensations, or feelings after the events.
6. Non-Human Entities Seen: Evaluated by the witness.
7. Anomalous Dreams Post the Encounter But Pre Hypnosis: Dreams of special significance, possibly involving UFOs or entities.
8. Anomalous Physical Injury: Puncture marks, burns, rashes, scars, ear or nose disorders.
9. Anomalous Phobia or Irrational Emotional Responses: Sudden new fears of specific locations or events.
10. Oz Factor States of Consciousness: Significant alteration in sensory perception, such as distortion of time or vision.
11. Extreme Levels of Witness Apprehension Concerning Disclosure: Desire to protect the details of a case.
12. Inexplicable Compulsive Desire for an Explanation: Evidenced by the witness upon first approach to investigation.

The report notes that cases vary and a 'potential abduction' is not solely determined by these symptoms, but a higher 'score' indicates a more significant case for investigation.

Page 5: Review - 'Fire in the Sky'

This review discusses BUFORA Case History Two, 'Fire in the Sky,' compiled by Jenny Randles. It focuses on the Peter Day movie case from January 11, 1973, near Thame, Buckinghamshire. The case involves multiple witnesses and film footage of a moving object, but confusion reigns regarding the object's identity, its appearance on film versus witness descriptions, and a simultaneous USAF jet crash. The reviewer notes that despite extensive data, no clear conclusion can be reached, highlighting the challenges in UFO research. The booklet is praised for its clear and lucid presentation of evidence without being dogmatic, making it an indispensable addition for ufologists.

Page 6-7: Dateline America - Updates From The States

This section, by Jim Melesciuc, editor of Orbiter, reports on the 1989 MUFON symposium in Las Vegas. Allegations made at the conference were not surprising, with Walt Andrus, MUFON's International Director, present. John Lear, MUFON's State Director for Nevada and conference chairman, was a key figure. Lear resigned after the conference, possibly due to Hal Star, Arizona State Director, assisting him as co-chairman.

Lear and his associates presented claims including:

• Government UFO investigation financed by illegal drugs from Southeast Asia.
• Government possession of 15 to 20 captured UFOs and 30 to 100 alien bodies at Wright-Patterson AFB.
• Alien civilizations currently visiting Earth.
• Project Grudge Report no. 13 co-authored by Dr. J. Allen Hynek.

Other speakers included Dr. Brandenburg on the 'Face On Mars' theory and Linda Moulton-Howe on cattle mutilations, suggesting lasers were used to cut the hides.

Stanton Friedman provided an update on MJ-12 documents, which the reviewer found to be 'nothing new, only further speculation.' Jennie Zeidman updated on the 1973 Mansfield, Ohio Army Reserve helicopter case, locating additional witnesses. Jacques Vallee reported on light beam injuries in Brazil.

Bill Moore's presentation involved accusations, confessions, and self-promotion. He described his alleged experiences with government agents and mysterious documents. The reviewer questions Moore's financial claims versus his alleged travels.

Page 7: Bill Moore's Controversial Statements

During his remarks, Moore admitted to being recruited by a government agency to supply information on individuals within the UFO community. He claimed awareness of the intelligence community's efforts to confuse and discredit Paul Bennewitz, a researcher he still considers a friend despite Bennewitz's deteriorating health. Moore also admitted that information from his 'deep government informants' (Falcon and Condor) aired on 'UFO Cover Up Live' was disinformation, but was unsure of its veracity.

Moore criticized the UFO community for lacking ethics and suggested that criticism should be aimed at 'incompetents, rumour mongers and disinformers.' He asked for trust until he could provide more information.

In a dramatic shift, Moore claimed he initially denied pulling off a stunt involving a government ID card, then claimed it was a MUFON ID card, and finally stated it was a joke. He then asserted that at least two government agencies are aware of an extraterrestrial civilization visiting Earth, and that US government counter-intelligence agents are engaged in a deception campaign against the American public. He also stated that MJ-12 operates at the White House/National Security level and that there are three distinct levels to the UFO phenomena.

Moore concluded by asking the audience to trust him for more information at an appropriate time, while simultaneously denying the creation of mysteries.

Page 8: Jim Moseley's Newsletter and Richard Grossinger Quote

Jim Moseley's newsletter, 'Saucer Smear,' is mentioned for an observation about the lack of press presence at a Friday morning press conference where speakers summarized their presentations. Moseley found it baffling that no questions were asked about alleged alien/government conspiracies, mutilations, or abductions.

The section notes that many are dismayed by Bill Moore's confessions of disinformation and deception. A fund for UFO research, which raised about $16,000, was reportedly given to Moore's counterpart, Stan Friedman, to prove the authenticity of MJ-12 documents, but yielded no results.

A lengthy quote from Richard Grossinger's 'Waiting For the Martian Express' is included. Grossinger reflects on the mystery of human existence and the possibility of extraterrestrial involvement, questioning whether UFOs are reflections of human behavior and if they are truly alien. He suggests a deep dive into 'nightmares' to understand potential genetic experiments and the possibility of meeting 'them' as distinct beings rather than projections.

Page 9-10: Review - 'Earthlights Revelation'

This review discusses 'Earthlights Revelation - UFOs and Mystery Lightform Phenomena: The Earth's Secret Energy Force' by Paul Devereux, with David Clarke, Andy Roberts, and Paul McCartney. The book is described as a serious contribution to science, resting on accumulated facts and attempting to correlate them. It suggests the occurrence of transient energies that manifest as mysterious lights, potentially accounting for UFO reports, apparitions, and hauntings.

The book posits a relationship between these phenomena and human consciousness and intentions. It follows work by Devereux & McCartney and Persinger et al., seeking earth-bound explanations. The authors suggest that 'Earth Lights' can be distinguished from other transient phenomena and may interact with human consciousness. They hint at connections between sacred sites, mythology, folklore, and the 'Earth Lights' phenomenon.

The review identifies two main problems with the book: distinguishing 'Earth Lights' from other transients and identifying their energy source. Devereux suggests that geological factors, such as surface faulting and mineral presence, play a role. The review notes that further work has supported this view, particularly in the Pennines.

However, the reviewer points out uncertainties, such as faulting without associated anomalies and the sporadic occurrence of these phenomena. While acknowledging the potential for geology to play a role, the reviewer suggests that other factors must be at work and expresses skepticism about assimilating the entire UFO phenomenon to an 'Earth Lights' explanation. The reviewer questions whether mysterious objects seen by airliners can be equated with 'Earth Lights' glimpsed over moors, or if isolated poltergeist outbreaks can be assimilated with the Hessdalen Valley luminosities.

Despite these criticisms, the reviewer praises the book for prompting questions and directing attention to naturalistic explanations. The reviewer notes the coincidence of this book's publication with Terence Headen's 'The Circles Effect and Its Mysteries,' suggesting both books offer 'naturalistic UFO' concepts and are welcome for those who prefer earth-bound explanations over supernatural or extraterrestrial ones. 'Earth Lights Revelation' is deemed a welcome contribution to rational inquiry and a 'damn good read.'

Page 10: Review - 'Frontiers of Reality'

This review introduces 'Frontiers of Reality: Where Science Meets The paranormal,' edited by Hilary Evans. It follows the landmark publication 'Phenomenon' and is described as a large-format, illustrated tome with contributions from researchers like Kevin McClure, Chris Rutowski, Mark Moravec, and Eugene Taylor.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO research, the prevalence of disinformation and alleged government cover-ups, and the nature of abduction experiences. The magazine seems to advocate for a more grounded, scientific approach, questioning sensational claims and highlighting the need for verifiable evidence. There is a clear skepticism towards theories that rely heavily on speculation or unsubstantiated government conspiracy narratives. The reviews of books and reports often point out a lack of analysis, reliance on hearsay, and a tendency towards sensationalism rather than rigorous investigation. The overall stance is one of caution and a demand for intellectual honesty within the UFO community.

Title: UFO BRIGANTIA
Issue: NOVEMBER '89
Date: 1989-11
Country: UK

This issue of UFO Brigantia features reviews of two significant publications in the ufology field: 'UFO World '89' and 'Earth Lights Revelation'. It also announces an upcoming UFO conference.

Review: UFO World '89

Compiled by Jenny Randles and published by BUFORA, 'UFO World '89' is a 52-page booklet available for purchase. The review, written by Andy Roberts, positions it as a comprehensive overview of the ufological landscape, particularly for those considering Christmas purchases. It aims to correct the perception that America is the sole hub of ufological activity, presenting a global perspective that includes the UK, USA, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Israel, Italy, New Zealand, Scandinavia, USSR, and Spain. The review suggests that the experiences reported worldwide indicate a phenomenon that shifts and changes according to cultural perceptions.

'UFO World '89' is divided into sections covering ufology in different countries, major sightings, and a listing of significant ufological books and articles. The reviewer praises it as a worthwhile enterprise that broadens ufological horizons. However, Andy Roberts expresses disappointment with BUFORA's production quality, deeming it a 'penny-pinching excercise' given the annual subscription cost of £18.50. He also notes that the cases featured are mostly from 1987 and 1988, suggesting a lack of contemporary reporting for a publication titled 'UFO World '89'.

Review: Earth Lights Revelation

The cover of this issue prominently features 'EARTH LIGHTS REVELATION' by Paul Devereux, with contributions from David Clarke, Andy Roberts, and Paul McCartney. The book is described as revealing a 'remarkable energy on our planet, older than human existence and arising from processes within the Earth itself.' This energy is posited as the source of UFO sightings, mysterious lights, ghostly figures, and potentially holding the key to changing our understanding of human consciousness. The book documents places, effects, and facts related to these phenomena.

Illustrative examples shown on the cover include a sighting by police officer Anthony Dodd in North Yorkshire, the mystical site of Glastonbury Tor in Somerset where strange light phenomena occur, a lightform photographed by physicist David Kuhrin at Pinnacles National Monument, California, and sky lights seen near Mount Kimmyo, Japan, during an earthquake. The book is available from Empress Books for £12.95 plus £1 postage and packing, with an offer for an autographed copy if requested nicely from Mr. Devereux.

UFO Conference Announcement

The Blackpool & Fylde UFO Society is organizing a one-day UFO conference on Saturday, November 25th, at the Strand Hotel in Blackpool. Speakers include Andy Roberts, Dave Clarke, Tim Good, Harry Harris, and Arthur Tomlinson. Admission is £1.25, and further details and tickets can be obtained from Joseph Dormer at the provided address and telephone number.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue leans towards alternative theories within ufology, as indicated by the review of 'Earth Lights Revelation' which challenges the conventional 'ET hypothesis' and suggests a terrestrial origin for phenomena. The review of 'UFO World '89' emphasizes the importance of global perspectives and cultural influences on UFO experiences, moving beyond a solely American-centric view. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting a broader, more inclusive, and perhaps more grounded understanding of UFOs and related mysteries, encouraging readers to look beyond established narratives and consider diverse interpretations of anomalous phenomena. There's a critical eye towards production quality and timeliness in reporting, as seen in the review of 'UFO World '89'.