UFO Brigantia issue 51

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO Brigantia
Issue: No 51
Date: Spring 1992
Publisher: UFO Brigantia (Distribution by Enigma Design & Publishing)
Country: UK
Price: UK £1.75, USA $4.00, Germany 8.0m

This issue of UFO Brigantia, the journal of the Independent UFO Network (IUN), presents a diverse range of articles and features for ufologists. The cover art depicts several alien figures and a flying saucer, setting a classic UFO theme. The magazine aims to be a platform for 'bizarre, controversial' content, encouraging readers to submit their thoughts.

Features

Editorial: Comments and Views of the Main Man

The editorial, written by Andy Roberts, welcomes readers to the first issue of 1992 and the 'new look' of the magazine. It touches upon government disinformation efforts and how the magazine's funds will be used to improve its appearance. A significant portion of the editorial is dedicated to critiquing a recent TV encounter on the Clive Anderson show, where two individuals, referred to as 'disinformation agents,' allegedly undermined belief in UFOs. The editorial sarcastically describes their presentation as 'excellent propaganda' and contrasts it with crop circle disinformation. It notes that the guests, Arthur and his associate Jeremy Barnyard, said little of substance but reinforced contemporary UFO mythology. The editorial also mentions 'MBF Services' in the credits, hinting at a possible connection to crop circle research.

UFO Crash at Roswell by Terry Jones

This article is a review of the book "UFO Crash at Roswell" by Don Schmitt and Kevin Randle. Jones notes that the mention of Roswell often sparks heated discussions. He highlights that the authors, who have largely stayed out of UFO arguments, conducted a reinvestigation of the 1947 incident. Their approach included re-interviewing witnesses and conducting a survey of the debris field. The article mentions key figures involved in the original event, such as Major Jesse Marcel, his son Dr. Jesse Marcel Jr., Thomas DuBose, and General Roger Ramey. It details how the military allegedly used a substituted wreckage of a Rawin Sonde balloon and foil target to explain away the crash, a story that was widely reported. The review points out that the authors found no evidence to support explanations like a failed V2/A9 test or a Japanese Balloon Bomb. The article also touches upon the authors' skepticism towards the MJ12 document, which they consider a hoax. Brigadier General Arthur Exon's testimony about a control group overseeing the recovered craft and crew is also mentioned. Jones concludes that the book is a fair representation of better research methods and recommends it as a definitive source on the Roswell incident.

"Abductions are Really Something" by Hilary Evans

Hilary Evans explores the phenomenon of alien abductions, presenting two options proposed by Hopkins: either genuine alien visitation or a pervasive form of mass delusion. Evans acknowledges that Hopkins is convinced abductions are actual physical events and presents several cases to support this view. However, Evans expresses a personal inclination towards a psycho-social explanation (PSS), suggesting that while individual cases might not be conclusive, collectively they point towards a more plausible interpretation. The article critiques Hopkins' stance, suggesting he overstates the case for alien visitation and underestimates the degree of delusion required for an abduction fantasy. Evans notes that while he cannot disprove Hopkins, he will present aspects that discourage viewing abductions as purely physical events. The article contrasts the improbability of alien visitations and mass delusions, ultimately suggesting that the latter might be the more probable explanation.

'A Social History of Psychic Questing' by Clive Potter & David Taylor

This section, with page number 20, is a review of a book titled 'A Social History of Psychic Questing'. The content of this review is not detailed in the provided OCR text.

'The 1952 Spitsbergen UFO Crash Incident' by Ole Jonny Braenne

This article, on page 28, details a UFO crash incident that occurred in Spitsbergen in 1952. The content of this article is not further elaborated in the provided OCR text.

Regular Features

JUST.4.U LETTERS

This section contains letters from readers, with page number 31.

BOOK REVIEWS

The editor provides his opinions on recent literary gems. The content is on page 35.

VIDEOVIEW

This section offers a candid look at camera work, found on page 37.

POSTBAG

This feature includes additional comments and thoughts from readers, on page 10.

Other Content

The Cereologist Review

This section reviews the latest issue of 'The Cereologist', a crop circle journal. The reviewer notes that the magazine has reinvented ufology and is full of 'government-centred paranoia'. It mentions editor John Michell's attempt to link the resurgence of wildflowers in southern England to the subject. The review provides the subscription details for The Cereologist: £2.50 for a sample copy, to be sent to 20 Paul St, Frome, Somerset, BA11 1DX.

Clothes Show - Review

This section features reviews of clothing items. One review is by Geoff Fulstone of Swansea, who tested a T-shirt from Aquarius UK. He found it warm, hard-wearing, and resistant to stains, noting that the 'Sheep and Wellington' pub in Brecon stirred a stir with the shirt's logo. The T-shirt is described as 100% cotton, one size fits all, costing £6.95 in the UK. Another review is by Allan Staithes, who tested a sweatshirt from Jupiter Powerwear. He described it as 'luxury,' warm, soft, well-fitting, and light. The design of crop circle patterns on the sweatshirt is highlighted as a way to 'display a modern myth'. The sweatshirt is available from Judy Young at 'Lazy Moon Farm', Upper Brailes, Banbury, Oxon, OX15 SBA.

Project Blue Book

An appendix contains information on Project Blue Book, other crash/retrievals, and a list of hoaxes and retrievals, including Aztec, Paradise Valley, Del Rio Texas, Kingman Arizona, and Keksburgh Pennsylvania. It also lists press accounts, witness reluctance to talk, intelligence group activities at Roswell in July 1947, and people involved in the incident.

Wanted

Philip Mantle is compiling a directory of UFO groups and publications worldwide and requests names and addresses of active groups and newsletters. He can be contacted at 1 Woodhall Drive, Batley, West Yorkshire, WF17 7SW.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO Brigantia strongly emphasizes critical analysis of UFO phenomena, particularly in the context of media representation and official explanations. The editorial stance is one of open-mindedness, encouraging controversial submissions while maintaining a degree of skepticism, especially towards sensationalized media portrayals. The magazine appears to favor in-depth investigation and detailed reviews over mere sensationalism. There's a clear interest in historical cases like Roswell and the exploration of psychological explanations for phenomena like abductions, alongside coverage of contemporary topics like crop circles. The publication positions itself as a platform for serious ufological discussion, distinct from mainstream media coverage.

This issue of UFO BRIGANTIA, identified as issue number 50 and dated Spring 1992, delves into the complex topic of UFO abductions, primarily through the lens of psychological interpretation and critical analysis. The cover headline, "REDUCTIONS," sets a tone of deconstruction and skepticism towards the literal interpretation of abduction claims. The magazine features articles that question the physical reality of these experiences, explore their potential psychological underpinnings, and connect them to broader themes of anomalous phenomena and belief systems.

Reductions: A Psychological Perspective on Abductions

The lead article, "REDUCTIONS," argues that abduction experiences, while often labeled as "anomalous trauma," may be understood as a manifestation of an individual's internal psychological situation. It posits that individuals might exteriorize their personal problems within the framework of a culturally accepted myth, such as alien abduction, similar to how demon possession or other psychological afflictions have been historically interpreted. The article references proponents of this view, like Rima Laibow, and contrasts it with the more literal interpretations favored by some abduction researchers.

It suggests that the outward form of abduction experiences might be new, but the underlying trauma is not. The article draws parallels between abduction narratives and older phenomena like demon possession, questioning why individuals would imagine such unpleasant experiences. It highlights that while some abductees find their experiences enjoyable, many are unpleasant, akin to other behaviors that can be accounted for by psychological evasion of responsibility.

The text also critiques the idea that abduction witnesses are necessarily fabricating stories, but suggests that their experiences might be influenced by psychological predispositions and the cultural narratives available. The influence of science fiction, particularly from the 1920s and 30s, is cited as a potential source for the imagery and scenarios found in abduction accounts, including themes of alien visits, physical examinations, and spacecraft. The article points to experiments, like the Lawson/McCall experiment, which demonstrated people's ability to fabricate imaginary alien encounters.

Furthermore, the article questions the specificity of abduction details, suggesting that if the experiences were physically real, there would be more consistency across different investigators. It notes that the variations in accounts might reflect the investigator's approach, much like how Freudian patients have Freudian dreams and Jungian patients have Jungian dreams.

Negative Trauma

This section addresses the argument that the negative aspects of abduction experiences (e.g., rape, enforced pregnancy) preclude them from being fantasies. The article counters that not all abduction experiences are unpleasant, and that even unpleasant experiences can be psychologically motivated, serving as a means to evade responsibility or cope with distress.

Innocent and Ignorant?

This part of the discussion questions whether abductees are truly innocent victims or if their experiences are influenced by their beliefs and the cultural context. It touches upon the idea that people who claim to be possessed by the devil might start with a belief that the devil exists, and similarly, abduction beliefs might shape the experience.

Science Fiction?

This section extensively explores the parallels between early science fiction pulp magazines and contemporary UFO abduction narratives. It argues that themes such as "domed discs overflying Earth," "visits by aliens," "humans drawn up into spacecraft by beams of light," and "physical examinations by aliens" were already present in science fiction long before they became common in UFO reports. The "Bermuda Triangle" phenomenon is also cited as an example of a concept anticipated by fiction.

Contradictions and Inconsistencies

The article highlights the inherent contradictions and improbabilities within abduction stories. It poses questions about why aliens would choose improbable subjects for their research, why memories of experiences are often incomplete, and why abductors or teams of abductors do not refer to each other. It suggests that these inconsistencies weaken the claim of physical reality.

Who Gets Abducted?

This section examines the demographics and circumstances of abduction. It notes that abduction phenomena are predominantly a United States phenomenon, similar to crop circles in South-West England. It also references a Spanish investigator, Ballester-Olmos, who found abduction cases in Spain to be deliberate hoaxes or susceptible to alternative explanations.

Personal Problems

This part of the analysis suggests that abductees often have underlying personal problems that may manifest in their abduction narratives. It cites an example of a woman who fabricated her abduction story because she wanted the world to hear what she had to say, implying that a desire for attention or validation could be a motive.

The Investigator Effect

This section discusses the "experimenter effect," where the act of investigation itself can influence the phenomenon being studied. It points out that some investigators, like Leo Sprinkle and Raymond Fowler, have discovered they themselves had childhood encounters with aliens, raising questions about whether they were led to become investigators because they were already abductees, or if the investigation process itself created or amplified such memories.

Investigating the Investigator

This part critically examines the approach of some investigators, particularly Hopkins, suggesting a tendency towards a "naive acceptance" of witness testimony. It questions the statistical likelihood of investigators also having abduction experiences and whether this points to a shared psychological susceptibility or a more complex interaction.

How Dumb is the Establishment?

This section reflects on the lack of interest from mainstream behavioral scientists in the abduction phenomenon. It suggests that while skepticism is warranted, the establishment's disinterest might stem from a lack of perceived threat or a pragmatic assessment of public opinion, rather than outright ignorance. It also notes that the variety of abduction accounts, regardless of the investigator, supports the idea of a psychological artifact rather than a singular physical reality.

Only Stories...

The concluding section reiterates the central problem: abduction accounts are primarily "stories" lacking corroborating evidence beyond the witness's testimony. While some cases may involve independent witnesses observing anomalous lights, these facts do not definitively support the physical reality of the abduction itself. The article concludes that while the details may be impressive, they do not inexorably point to physical reality and can be accounted for by psychological factors.

A Social History of Psychic Questing

This article, by Clive Potter and David Taylor, explores the phenomenon of "psychic questing," defining it as a series of interlinked events and incidents leading to the recovery of artefacts or the solving of mysteries. It notes that many active participants in psychic questing come from a UFO investigative background, suggesting a connection between the two fields. The article traces the history of psychic questing back to ancient Egypt and discusses its application in archaeology, often involving intuition and reasoned guesswork alongside scientific methods. It highlights the use of ESP by archaeologists and the potential for psychic archaeology to uncover information deemed superfluous or supernatural.

References

The issue includes an extensive list of references, citing various books, articles, and conference proceedings related to UFO abductions, contactees, psychology, and related phenomena. These references provide the source material for the arguments presented throughout the magazine.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO abduction claims, emphasizing psychological interpretations over literal ones. The magazine adopts a skeptical yet analytical stance, questioning the veracity of abduction narratives by highlighting their similarities to older belief systems, their internal inconsistencies, and the potential influence of science fiction and investigator bias. The editorial stance appears to favor a "psychic reality" or psychological explanation for abduction experiences, suggesting they are artifacts of the human mind rather than evidence of extraterrestrial visitation. The inclusion of an article on "Psychic Questing" further broadens the scope to include related anomalous phenomena and their investigative methodologies.

Title: Psychic Questing
Issue: SPRING 1993
Volume: 21
Publisher: Brigantia
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English
ISSN: 0961-0195
Price: 21

This issue of 'Psychic Questing' explores themes of spiritual journeys, hidden knowledge, and unexplained phenomena, blending mythology, historical accounts, and UFO investigations.

Psychic Questing: The Underlying Principles

The article begins by drawing parallels between Egyptian mythology, specifically the myth of Isis searching for the scattered pieces of Osiris, and the concept of 'psychic questing'. This quest narrative, where the seeker finds wholeness, is presented as a fundamental principle. Shamanic cultures worldwide are highlighted for their own questing lore, where the shaman acts as a guardian, capable of communicating with gods, curing illness, and interacting with spirits. This tradition is further exemplified in Tibetan Buddhism, particularly the Terma tradition, where sacred artefacts were hidden by Padmasambhava and are to be retrieved by 'Terton' treasure finders at specific times. These artefacts were allegedly protected by supernatural forces and could be removed from the physical plane into another dimension, retrievable only by the right person at the right time. A core belief in this lore is the presence of 'spirit guardians' protecting concealed artefacts, a theme prevalent in occult philosophy.

Historical Quests and Artefacts

The concept of questing extends to historical accounts of treasure hunting and the search for mystical objects. The article mentions a knight in golf armour associated with a site in Mold, Flintshire, where a golden cape was discovered. Occultists believed that supplication and sacrifices were necessary to recover treasure from burial sites, with guidance from texts like 'The Key of Solomon' on appropriate times and governing planets for spirit invocation. Dowsing with hazel twigs and dactylomancy (dowsing with a ring) were methods used to find hidden treasure.

Robert Mantell, an Essex alchemist in 1577, was in trouble for possessing a 'familiar in a ring'. Later, in April 1582, John Dee, an Elizabethan magus, recorded in his diary that his friend and scryer, Edward Kelley, found a cipher and map, guided by a spirit, which indicated a hidden treasure. Dee suggested Kelley search near Newbury. The spirits reportedly indicated that obtaining earth from ten locations on the map would suffice to bring the treasure to light, though their success is unrecorded.

Modern Contactees and Apports

The 1970s saw Uri Geller and his mentor Andrija Purarich contacted by a source called 'The Nine'. This period was marked by alleged discarnate voices, apport phenomena, UFO sightings, and teleportation, in addition to Geller's known abilities.

The case of Joseph Smith, founder of the Mormon faith, is presented as a parallel to modern UFO contacteeism. Smith, an established dowser, claimed visitations from angelic entities in 1830, who instructed him to retrieve golden texts from a hill. Similarities are drawn with the Terma tradition, as Smith was told not to retrieve the texts immediately but to visit the site on the fourth anniversary of their discovery. The golden book was discovered, and Smith was instructed to wear a protective breast plate. Elaborate occult rituals used to find buried treasure are also mentioned.

Jeanne D'Arc (Joan of Arc) received visions in 1425, guided by Christian saints, to help save France. She was instructed to find a sword behind the altar at the chapel of Fierbois. Her visions, like Geller's, guided her until her death.

The 'Meonia' Swords and Apport Phenomena

Individuals involved in retrieving 'Meonia' swords believe these artefacts, along with others, will be brought together for an important ritual. Research suggests these swords, manufactured around 1870, were replicas of Tudor and 17th-century designs for wall display. Andy Collins and Graham Philips concluded that the majority of psychic artefacts are 'apports'.

Margo Williams, a spiritualist from the Isle of Wight, is described as an 'Apport maker' who aids spirits in locating and retrieving lost or hidden artefacts. Fieldwork by Andy Collins suggests these artefacts are 'placed' at locations prior to discovery, meaning they are apports. While apports are often placed out of sight, there are instances of them materializing, such as the 'Topham-Reeve apports' received via Ouija board. One team member experienced physical symptoms after apport sessions, a reaction noted in physical mediums.

The materialization of a mystical red stone during the 'Eye of Fire' episode, witnessed by Graham Philips, is cited as a precedent for materializing apports.

The 1952 Spitsbergen UFO Crash/Retrieval Incident

This section extensively details the alleged 1952 Spitsbergen UFO crash. Rumours have persisted for nearly 40 years about a crashed flying saucer on the remote island. The story, as it goes, involves wreckage discovered by jet pilots and transported to Narvik, where an investigation allegedly uncovered alloys of extraterrestrial origin.

The article traces the story's development from its likely original source: a German newspaper article in the 'Saarbrucker Zeitung' on June 28, 1952, titled "Auf Spitsbergen landete Fliegende Unterasse" (Flying Saucer Landed on Spitsbergen). This article describes Norwegian jet planes encountering unusual radio interference and radar anomalies while on maneuvers over Spitsbergen. The radar shifted from 'white' to 'red', indicating an alert and the approach of a metallic alien object.

Flight Captain Olaf Larsen reportedly spotted a glittering circular disc, between 40 and 50 meters in diameter, on the snowy landscape. The object was described as brighter than the snow, with a destroyed dome-shaped cockpit. Despite circling for 60 minutes, the pilots could not determine its origin or type. They returned to Narvik to report their findings.

Subsequently, five big flying boats equipped with sleigh skis were dispatched. They landed near the bluish steel disc, which was embedded in snow and ice. Dr. Norsel, a Norwegian rocket specialist, identified it as an 'infamous flying saucer' and noted that communication failures and radar alarms were linked to the object's proximity. He also identified a radio direction finder with a plutonium core transmitting on unusual frequencies.

Norwegian specialists suggested the disc might have originated in the Soviet Union and crashed due to transmission or receiving errors. The object was described as unmanned, round, with slanting sides, and made of an unknown metal compound resembling silver. It had 46 automatic jets, a plexiglass ball in the centre containing control devices, and measuring instruments with Russian symbols. Its operational radius was estimated at over 30,000 km, and altitude over 160 km. The object was thought to have room for high-explosive or atom bombs. German V-weapon designer Reidel suggested it resembled a V-7.

Further reports emerged, including an article in the German periodical 'der Flieger' by Dr. Waldermar Beck, which likely spread the story further. The 'Zeitung' article's points of interest included the speculation of Soviet origin and the naming of two individuals involved in the investigation: Flight Captain Olaf Larsen and Dr. Norsel.

Colonel Gernod Darnbyl, Chairman of the Board of inquiry, stated that the Spitsbergen crash provided valuable material for solving the UFO problem, with scientific results expected within twelve months. He emphasized that secrecy could lead to panic. Norwegian fighter pilots, Lts. Brobs and Tyllensen, claimed that the North Pole might be an air base for unknowns and that flying saucers frequently landed during snow and ice storms.

Contradictory information arose, including a report from the Uruguayan newspaper 'El Nacional' about a Norwegian scientist named Hans Larsen Loberg, who claimed the saucer crashed on Heligoland, not Spitsbergen. Loberg described the object as 91 feet in diameter and 70 feet thick, with push-buttons and magnetic forces for propulsion. He denied any Russian writing on the craft.

Further details emerged about the materials used in the spaceship, described as light as aluminium but very hard and heat-resistant. Inside, they found heavy water, pills, books in an unknown writing, and seven bodies burned beyond recognition, estimated to be men aged 25-30, about 1.65 meters tall.

A 'beam-cannon' using magnetic rays was also found, which Dr. Loberg believed explained strange incidents like broken car windows. He theorized the Spitsbergen saucer crashed due to an American hydrogen-bomb explosion, which incinerated the crew but left the spaceship's material largely intact.

The article concludes by noting that the Spitsbergen crash story mutated and developed over time, with further evidence and explanations to be explored in subsequent issues.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of the mystical, the paranormal, and unexplained phenomena. It presents a narrative that bridges ancient myths, historical accounts of occult practices, and modern UFO sightings and alleged crash retrievals. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various perspectives and historical accounts without definitive judgment, encouraging readers to consider the possibilities. The recurring theme is the search for hidden knowledge, truth, and understanding, whether through spiritual quests, historical investigation, or the examination of anomalous aerial phenomena. The publication seems to favour detailed research, as evidenced by the extensive reporting on the Spitsbergen incident, and highlights the ongoing nature of these investigations and the mysteries that remain.

This issue of UFO Brigantia, dated Spring 1992, is primarily dedicated to the ongoing debate surrounding crop circles, exploring various theories, alleged hoaxes, and investigative efforts. The magazine features a 'Letters' section, book reviews, and video reviews, all contributing to a comprehensive look at the phenomenon.

Letters to the Editor

The 'Letters' section opens with a letter from a reader who expresses amusement at the crop circle saga but cautions against dismissing the phenomenon too soon. The writer recounts the history of Terence Meaden's evolving 'plasma vortex' theory, which was developed to explain increasingly complex circle formations observed from 1980 to 1989. The letter suggests that the developments in 1990 and 1991, which saw a further 1000 events, present a puzzle, with hoaxes being a possibility but unlikely as a general explanation due to the scale and elaboration of many events. The writer notes that despite surveillance, human action has not been detected in some cases, and mentions accumulating 'hard' evidence of short-lived forces at play. The letter concludes by suggesting that while hoaxes are part of the phenomenon, it's too early to dismiss the events of the last twelve years as 'all hoax and vortex'.

An 'Eds Note' responds to the letter, suggesting that Meaden, as a theorist, must adapt his theory to facts. The note posits that simple circles are likely weather-caused, while the rest are hoaxes. It dismisses the idea of invoking external influences for all circles, arguing that new hoaxes spread quickly and hoaxers exist everywhere. The note highlights that crop watchers cannot distinguish hoax from genuine and that many are committed believers. It also references the 'Warminster Dave Simpson hoax' as an example of how believers can be fooled.

A subsequent letter from Ralph Noyes, London, discusses the sophistication of crop circle fanciers and the prevalence of hoaxers, citing 'Doug 'n' Dave' as proof that circles can be created quickly and on a large scale. Noyes suggests that many people have the time and inclination to create hoaxes, driven by mischief rather than profit. He draws a parallel to 'Doc Shiels' sea-monster photos as an example of long-term hoaxes fooling people. The letter criticizes the media's response, noting that in 1991, the 'bubble bursting event' by Doug 'n' Dave led to a decline in reporting on circles. Noyes predicts that crop circles will fade out over the years as hoaxers move on to other ideas, leaving only a small core of genuine, simple circles. He also touches on rumors of 'enforced job-losses, alcohol consumption and general weirdness' among leading crop circle figures, which fuels his theories about belief and gullibility.

Book Reviews

Several books are reviewed in this issue:

• "FROM OUT OF THE BLUE" by JENNY RANDLES: This book is described as a 'fascinating scientific detective story' concerning the alleged events at Rendlesham Forest in 1980. The reviewer praises Randles' exhaustive study, calling it 'Ufology at its best'. However, the review also points out ufology's weakness in giving credence to cases or witnesses simply because they are connected to the military or have official records. The reviewer suggests that the 'lighthouse theory' or a 'disinformation trick' might be the most plausible explanations for the Rendlesham events, rather than alien intervention. The book is recommended as essential reading for ufologists, covering investigative pitfalls and offering a thrilling story.
• "FROM OUT OF THE BLUE" by JENNY RANDLES (Mail Order Information): This section provides details on how to obtain the book, listing two sources in the UK and USA, with prices and contact information.
• "THE UFO REPORT 1992" edited by TIMOTHY GOOD: The review of this edited volume is critical. George Wingfield's chapter on crop circles in 1990 is dismissed as unsupported and baselessly imputing that hoaxes are of government origin. The reviewer finds Wingfield's naivety evident in light of recent hoax exposures. Nicholas Redfern's review of government documents pertaining to UFO sightings is described as workmanlike but lacking a particular conclusion, merely suggesting a startling truth may be emerging. The review notes a circular argument that government documents must be significant. Chapters on the UFO scene in Russia and Puerto Rico are also critiqued, with Russia depicted as being in the 1950s UFO-wise. The review finds the book to be a 'sad, retrograde treatment of a subject' that ignores psycho-sociological or natural phenomena-based sources for UFOs.
• "THE UFO REPORT 1992" (Mail Order Information): Details for obtaining this book are provided.
• "The Quest for the Omphalos" by Bob Trubshaw: This book is described as a solid work of folk history, melding fact with folklore and speculation, and is recommended for those interested in the mystical side of England's heritage, with UFOs mentioned on one page.

Video Reviews

Two videos are reviewed:

• "Cropcircle communique" by John Macnish: This 75-minute documentary is presented as a comprehensive overview of the crop circle phenomenon, featuring interviews with leading figures, graphics, and significant events. The reviewer notes the professionalism of the job and the absence of sniping between different camps. The video includes footage of the KLF hoax, an army video of a curious blob, and German tourists' video of a small white object. It also features Pat Delgado arguing against hoaxes and footage of snow circles in Turkey. The video is described as indispensable viewing.
• "UNDENIABLE EVIDENCE" produced by Ark Soundwaves: This video is presented as Colin Andrews' personal take on the crop circle phenomenon. Colin narrates the video, insisting that circles have 'purpose and meaning'. The review highlights the video's personal nature, including an anecdote about a 'celtic' cross circle appearing near Andrews' home. It notes that the video presents dowsing as fact and includes lab evidence of 'energy' in grain samples, which is described as glossed over. The reviewer concludes that the video is an interesting case of 'croppies' using science to back up their theories.

Advertisements

Advertisements are present for:

• Circlevision's "Cropcircle communique" video: Offered at a special price to UFO Brigantia subscribers and readers.
• "Looking for the Aliens" by Peter Hough & Jenny Randles: This book is advertised with details on its content, authors, and mail order availability from Enigma Design & Publishing. It is described as a unique examination of extraterrestrial aliens, taking an objective look at the subject.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the nature of crop circles (hoax vs. genuine phenomenon), the evolution of theories surrounding them, and the critical examination of evidence and belief systems within ufology. The magazine appears to adopt a skeptical yet open-minded stance, presenting different viewpoints and critically reviewing books and videos related to the subject. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between well-founded evidence and speculation or misperception, particularly in the context of ufological research and crop circle investigations. The editorial stance seems to favor rigorous investigation and a cautious approach to extraordinary claims, while acknowledging the public's fascination with the unexplained.

Title: UFORTIA
Issue: 39
Date: Spring 1992
Publisher: Enigma Design & Publishing
Country: UK

This issue of UFORTIA, published by Enigma Design & Publishing, features a range of articles and advertisements related to the UFO phenomenon, paranormal investigations, and related media.

VIDEOVIEW

The "VIDEOVIEW" section critically reviews a video by an individual named Andrews. The reviewer describes Andrews's content as "complete and absolute gobbledygook" and "new age dross." While acknowledging the video is "extremely well made" with an "excellent audio visual sequence" and "good spacey music," the reviewer questions its substance, stating that it "misses herding us all into the pen" but is suitable for those who like his ideas or want a biased view. The reviewer notes that the video's relevance or meaning of crop circles is never explained, only hinted at.

Budd Hopkins and 'Intruders'

A reader reports that Budd Hopkins has been involved in a three-night mini-series on the CBS network titled "Intruders." The series, which aired in May, stars actor Richard Crenna as Budd Hopkins, portrayed as a psychologist. The reader expresses anticipation for the tapes, noting that Hopkins has been working with TV people all winter.

Bill Hicks and UFO Experience

The magazine highlights an interview with comedian Bill Hicks from NME (January 18, 1992). Hicks seriously relates a UFO experience he had with two friends, describing it as a shared vision where they were "taken up in a UFO." Upon returning, none remembered the event, but one friend remarked, "Do you get the impression that we're meeting a lot of new friends tonight?" Hicks concludes that this experience gave him "a taste of holiness I never got in 20 years of religion..."

Postbag

Letter from Peter Wilcok: Peter Wilcok of Blackburn, Lancs, writes in response to a letter from Nick Brown (November 1991 UFORTIA) regarding the secret storage of steam engines in tunnels. Wilcok's friend was given information about this subject by two gentlemen who identified themselves as SPARROWHAWK and SHITEHAWK, former intelligence agents for the Department of Transport in the early 1980s. Their story claims the government was storing ex-B.R. steam engines and ex-London Transport Routemaster buses in secret locations, including tunnels. The project's purpose was to establish a hybrid form of transport incorporating secret technology, code-named TRAM. The project was so secret that no further information is available.

Editor's Response: The editor thanks Peter for the insight, suggesting it's connected to secret government devices designed to cause 'train stops' and a "fiendishly cunning 'leaves on the track' weaponry range." The editor humorously concludes that the "light at the end of the tunnel" is "another bloody train!"

Small Ads

Enigmas: Enigmas is a magazine published five times a year by Strange Phenomena Investigations (SPI), covering paranormal topics including UFOs, poltergeists, hauntings, and spiritualism. Subscription details are available by sending a large SAE to Malcolm Robinson.

Wanted: Newspaper cuttings of UFO material are sought by Mr. J. Barnett.

For Sale: Used printers (Seikosha 2540 and Star NL10) are advertised.

Telescopes: Several astronomical telescopes are advertised, including a 44 F/5 Newtonian, a 3" F/6 Meade Equatorial, and an 8" F/10 Maksutov.

New Titles

Jacques Vallee's 'Revelations': This is the third book in Vallee's Alien Contact trilogy, following 'Dimensions' and 'Confrontations'. 'Revelations' presents evidence that hoaxes and media manipulations have misled UFO researchers. It analyzes UFO "incidents," from alleged alien retrievals to reports of subterranean humanoids, arguing that many sightings are complex hoaxes and witnesses are manipulated.

'Supernatural Spielberg': A book by Darren Slade and Nigel Watson that examines Steven Spielberg's films, such as 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind,' 'E.T.,' and 'Poltergeist.' It explores how Spielberg uses supernatural themes and beliefs, combined with cinematic techniques, to reflect and fuel our visions of other possible worlds.

Enigma Design & Publishing Promotions

'Shadow of Man' Tape: A lecture tape by Robert France, with an introduction by Clive Potter and music by CE IV, is available for £6.00. The publication is conducted on a shared profit basis. The tape analyzes the UFO mystery, seeking a unifying factor for contactees, false prophecies, and crashed saucers, suggesting the phenomena could be ET, psychological, or from other dimensions, ultimately describing a picture of manipulation.

'The UFO Report 1992': Timothy Good's latest book is available post-free for £10.99.

Abduction CE IV Music Tapes: Music tapes by CE IV related to abduction are available for £6.00.

Book Orders: Enigma Design & Publishing lists various books for sale, including 'Revelations' by Jacques Vallee, 'Crop Circles' by Jenny Randles/Paul Fuller, 'Looking for the Aliens' by Jenny Randles/Peter Hough, 'Death by Supernatural Causes', 'Supernatural Spielberg' and 'Portraits of Alien Encounters' by Nigel Watson, 'The UFO Report 1992', 'Above Top Secret', and 'Alien Liaisons' by Timothy Good, 'Cropcircle Communique' video by John Macnish, 'Intruders' by Budd Hopkins, and 'Phantoms of the Sky' by David Clarke/Andy Roberts, and 'Earth Lights'/'Earth Memory' by Paul Deveraux.

Conference: Enigma Design & Publishing is organizing a conference with Jacques Vallee and Jenny Randles at UMIST on April 25th, 1992, titled "The Aliens' Revealed."

Catalogue: A free catalogue containing details of UK and Foreign government documents, new books, videos, and audio tapes is available upon request by sending a large SAE or stamp.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO phenomena, including skepticism towards certain popular figures and theories (e.g., Andrews' video), while also reporting on significant developments like the 'Intruders' mini-series and new research books. There's a focus on the potential for hoaxes and media manipulation to obscure the truth, as highlighted in the review of Jacques Vallee's book. The magazine also features reader contributions and promotes a range of UFO-related books, tapes, and events, indicating a commitment to disseminating information within the UFO research community. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging readers to question information and explore various facets of the UFO mystery.