UFO Navigator - No 030 - 2002

Magazine Overview

This issue of "UFO Navigator," the Russian ufological digest, dated February 2002 (Issue No. 30), presents a collection of recent reports and analyses concerning unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and other unexplained phenomena. The cover prominently features a quote from Joseph Bryan, former Deputy Secretary of the Air Force, suggesting UFOs are under intelligent control and of interplanetary origin. Key themes highlighted on the cover include mysterious sightings over Adiaman, the connection between cosmic intelligence, earthquakes, and UFOs, and the debunking of a mystical 'palindrome' as a hoax.

News Briefs

The 'News' section offers a rapid-fire summary of various incidents: a Canadian 'saucer' possibly linked to 'The X-Files' series, fiery balls over a Puerto Rican TV tower, a scandal surrounding UFO sightings in Turkey, a meteor, aurora, or 'saucer' over Lake Erie, a bright light illuminating a Chilean province, an 'attacking shadow' from Argentina, a 'flying trapezoid' over Magstadt, Chupacabra reports from Barrancas, statistics on humanoid sightings, a possible mini-Tunguska meteorite near Chukhreevka, and UFO news, including a mention of publications by Marina Popovich.

American Border Guard Witnesses UFO Squadron

A detailed report describes an incident on January 31, 2002, on the US-Mexican border near San Diego. A US Immigration and Absorption Service agent witnessed what he described as 'at least a dozen' disc-shaped objects, estimated to be 30-50 meters in diameter, flying in formation. A larger, boomerang-shaped UFO led the squadron. The agent observed the objects emitting white lights and noted the boomerang-shaped craft accelerating rapidly and disappearing. His superior confirmed the written report but stated the agent's name would be withheld for official reasons.

Canadian 'Saucer' - 'The X-Files' Promotion?

Ufologist George Filer received a letter from a witness in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, describing a bright light seen on January 18, 2002. The object ascended incredibly fast, then descended, appearing as a disc with a dome and a 'X' marking on its underside, emitting a low buzzing sound. The report notes that similar sightings occurred in Canada, including a UFO pursuing a car near Houston and a strange light over the Balchley River Valley.

Puerto Rico: Fiery Balls Over TV Tower

On February 6, 2002, near Las Catalinas Mall in Puerto Rico, a former ufologist named Luis Marrero observed a large, fiery ball, estimated to be 180 meters in diameter, hovering near television antennas. Two smaller yellow and blue orbs detached from the main object and descended vertically before disappearing. The large orb then vanished instantly. Notably, the antenna lights were off, which was unusual.

Scandal Over UFO Sightings in Turkey

This section revisits UFO sightings over Adiaman, Turkey, and introduces a controversy involving Turkish ufologist Erol Erken accusing Western ufologists Chuck Warren and George Filer of bias. Erken claims that photos of 'orbs' (photo effects) posted on Filer's website were analyzed by him and found to be likely camera malfunctions, not unknown phenomena. He criticizes Filer for continuing to present them as unexplained.

Tectonic Lights vs. UFOs: The Adiaman Debate

George Filer responds to Erken's accusations, apologizing for a delay in reviewing his arguments. Filer states that while he has personally encountered and pursued UFOs, he has never seen tectonic lights tracked by radar. He acknowledges that the description of lights by the mayor of Adiaman sounds more like a UFO than tectonic lights. Filer points out that seismic activity was not reported in the Adiaman province at the time, and the nearest significant seismic events were much further away. He also notes that tectonic lights are generally stationary or move slowly, unlike the described UFO movements. Dr. K. V. Ettinger is quoted stating that piezoelectric luminescence cannot explain high-altitude lights. The article questions whether seismic sensors were checked for activity under Adiaman.

Meteorite, Aurora, or 'Saucer'?

Reports from February 13, 2002, describe a possible object falling into Lake Erie near Lorain, Ohio. Initial speculation ranged from a helicopter to a meteorite or aurora. Coast Guard vessels found nothing, though sailors reported strange lights. Witnesses heard a loud rumble, and windows vibrated. The local newspaper reported red lights or flashes seen from several kilometers away.

What Illuminated the Chilean Province?

On February 10, 2002, near Arica, Chile, a powerful beam of light fell from the sky, illuminating a vast area and creating a 'day into night' effect. A photojournalist and government officials were among the witnesses. The light was described as incredibly powerful, unlike lightning. Similar phenomena were reported in the area in previous years.

'Attacking Shadow' from Argentina

This section details encounters with a mysterious entity in Argentina known as 'El Petizo,' described as a malevolent 'shadow' that attacks lone individuals at night. Unlike typical ghosts, these attacks result in physical injuries. The incidents occurred in El Duraznito, near Rosario de la Frontera. The entity is described as elusive and difficult to harm. In one case, a victim shot and stabbed the entity without effect before it disappeared.

Chupacabra in Barrancas

Recent Chupacabra activity is reported in Barrancas, Chile, with evidence of bloodless, mutilated poultry. A farmer found five dead chicks, one with its head torn off. The family suspected their dog, but the attacks continued even after the dog was confined, leading them to believe an unknown predator was responsible.

Interesting Statistics: Humanoid Sightings

UFO researcher Larry Hatch has compiled a database of over 17,850 UFO reports. The article presents a table showing the distribution of humanoid sightings by decade from before 1940 to the 1990s. The data indicates that 'monsters' were popular in the 1930s and 1940s but peaked in the 1970s. Examples of 'monster' descriptions include 'bird-man,' 'mummy humanoids,' 'green-faced ape-man,' 'cyclops,' 'hairy humanoids with pig snouts,' and 'three-eyed creatures.'

Mini-Tunguska Meteorite Near Chukhreevka?

An article from the newspaper 'Trud-7' discusses an object that fell near the village of Chukhreevka in June 1990. The event involved a fiery ball that crashed and ignited hay, but without a loud explosion or crater. Analysis of the resulting slag revealed unusual chemical compositions, suggesting an extraterrestrial origin, possibly from a comet. This finding is linked to theories about the nature of the Tunguska event. The article notes the object's silent descent despite its apparent kinetic energy.

UFOs According to Marina Popovich

The article discusses interviews with retired Air Force pilot Marina Popovich, known for her enthusiasm and kindness. It suggests that her openness and trust sometimes lead her to be exploited by charlatans. The author references an interview where Popovich allegedly claimed to be from the Pleiades constellation and mentioned encounters with aliens. The article expresses skepticism about some of her claims, particularly those related to Billy Meier's alleged contactee experiences, which the author believes are fabricated.

UFOs Over Railways and Self-Hypnosis

This section presents reports of UFOs observed near railway lines. One account from Yekaterinburg describes two glowing spheres near a railway station. Another report from a train traveling between Chelyabinsk and Yekaterinburg mentions a UFO accompanying the train, changing shape and seemingly observing it. A report from a locomotive driver in Chelyabinsk describes a glowing ball that influenced the train's speed, causing it to accelerate or stop against the driver's will. The article concludes with a cautionary note about the power of self-hypnosis.

Cosmic News

The 'Cosmic News' section reports on the Galileo mission to Jupiter's moon Europa, suggesting the presence of a sub-ice ocean that could harbor primitive life. It also announces the upcoming visibility of a bright comet, discovered by Kaoru Ikeya and Daqing Zhang, which will be observable with the naked eye in March and April.

Following Up on Our Publications

This section revisits a prediction by Victoria Lilienquist of Phoenix, Arizona, who claimed a giant UFO would appear over Salt Lake City during the Winter Olympics. The report notes that no such event occurred, despite media attention. It also includes a brief mention of a UFO sighting over Salt Lake City, observed by the author, which coincided with the planet Jupiter's appearance.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the unexplained, with a focus on UFO sightings, alleged alien encounters, and mysterious aerial phenomena. There's a clear editorial stance favoring the investigation of these phenomena, while also critically examining claims and debunking hoaxes or misinterpretations, as seen in the Adiaman debate and the discussion of Billy Meier's alleged evidence. The magazine aims to present a broad spectrum of reports, from eyewitness accounts to statistical analyses and scientific speculation, while maintaining a degree of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims. The recurring theme is the persistent presence of the unexplained in our skies and the ongoing human effort to understand it.

Title: UFO Navigator
Issue: Vol. 1, No. 1
Date: February 2002
Publisher: Kosmopoisk

This issue of "UFO Navigator" presents a collection of articles and reports investigating unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and related anomalous phenomena. It aims to provide a new look at the UFO phenomenon through scientific analysis, witness accounts, and historical case studies.

Article 1: The Power of Suggestion and UFOs

The issue begins with a discussion on the power of suggestion, using an example of a shaman who could allegedly cause death through belief. It then transitions to a UFO-related incident where a woman in Moscow reported seeing "two strange light ovals" on the night of February 10-11, 2002. These objects allegedly emitted bright flashes, after which the woman suddenly lost her sight. Kosmopoisk's investigation, however, suggested the lights were likely powerful spotlights from a construction site, and while the connection to the woman's blindness was not definitively established, it was suggested that psychological factors might be at play. The article invites readers who may have witnessed unusual events on that night to contact Kosmopoisk.

Article 2: Our Calendar (On This Day... Years Ago)

• This section briefly lists historical UFO-related events:
• Light Cone over Linz (1972): Observed on March 18, 1972, at an altitude of 6000 meters over Linz, Austria, by the captain of an Austrian Airlines DC-9. Instruments failed, and a cone-shaped light object was seen. A Boeing 737 from "Cityjet" was also in the vicinity.
• UFO over PBCH Units (1980): Based on letters from a serviceman in the Strategic Rocket Forces (RVSN) near Tatishchevo, Saratov Oblast. On March 10, 1980, at about 19:15, a glowing point appeared, rotated, emitted white smoke, then a bright green cloud, and later a searchlight before ascending rapidly and disappearing. The cloud remained for 20 minutes. The serviceman speculated about air ionization and radiation. He also mentioned a 1979 incident where a sentry fired at a hovering disc and lost consciousness, and another where a soldier saw a glowing sphere and was told not to act.
• "Needle" over Leningrad (1983): Described by A. A. Dobrenko, who observed an "igla" (needle)-like object on March 11, 1983, over the Gulf of Finland. The object moved slowly, then performed a sharp turn and disappeared.
• "Celestial Express" or Venus? (1991): Reported by P. Trofimets from Lugansk Oblast, Ukraine. On March 3, 1991, a bright, glowing object was seen hovering over a village, which later moved and appeared to have illuminators.

Article 3: Investigation: Cosmic Intelligence, Earthquakes, and UFOs

This extensive article by Sergey Sharygin explores the potential connection between UFOs, earthquakes, and other anomalous geophysical phenomena. It begins by referencing the concept of "unknown intelligent forces" from K. E. Tsiolkovsky and the writings of the Strugatsky brothers, suggesting that humanity is on the verge of significant changes driven by advanced civilizations.

The author discusses how scientific understanding of UFOs has evolved, moving beyond purely cosmological explanations to acknowledge potential interactions with unknown intelligent forces. He highlights the work of researchers like G. K. Kolchin, V. G. Azhazha, and F. R. Khantseverov.

A significant portion of the article focuses on the biological precursors to earthquakes and anomalous geophysical events, particularly the behavior of animals. Sharygin notes that animals often react to UFOs similarly to how they react before strong earthquakes, suggesting a common underlying cause, possibly related to electromagnetic fields.

He cites studies from both foreign and Russian literature on the influence of UFOs on animals and the environment. The article details observations in Crimea where anomalous magnetic field fluctuations coincided with the appearance of UFOs and unusual animal behavior. Sharygin suggests that the electromagnetic signal affecting animals might be common to both earthquake sources and UFO emissions.

The author also touches upon the psychological effects of UFO encounters, such as paralysis and memory alteration, and notes that animals can sometimes be more sensitive to these phenomena than scientific instruments.

Article 4: Physics and Metaphysics of UFOs

This section presents hypotheses by Viktor Sviridov regarding the nature of UFOs. Sviridov posits that extraterrestrial civilizations have been observing Earth for centuries and that their presence is evident through their flying objects and contacts. He proposes that UFOs utilize the energy of space itself, converting it through powerful electromagnetic fields to achieve their flight capabilities. He suggests that UFOs possess a field that balances them with Earth's magnetic field, allowing them to move by manipulating this field.

Sviridov describes UFOs as point sources of electromagnetic energy, emitting in the microwave range (1000-3000 MHz) with significant power (1.5-1.8 MW). He theorizes that these fields create a plasma corridor that isolates the UFO and allows for its movement, potentially even through time.

He also discusses the possibility of reverse-engineering UFO technology, mentioning examples like the transistor, Kevlar, and stealth technology. Sviridov suggests that UFOs act as energy capacitors, using powerful electromagnetic fields to counteract Earth's magnetic field.

Article 5: The "Gulf Breeze" Incident and "Hamilton" Hoax

• This part of the magazine addresses specific UFO cases:
• Gulf Breeze (Florida, USA): The article discusses the highly publicized UFO sightings and photographs taken by Ed Walters in Gulf Breeze in the late 1980s. However, it reveals that these were later exposed as a hoax, with evidence suggesting Walters manipulated photographs and involved others in his deception. Other sightings in the area were explained as weather balloons or tethered lights.
• Hamilton Hoax (Kansas, USA): An account from April 21, 1897, where former congressman Alexander Hamilton claimed to have witnessed an "airship" with occupants that descended into a cow pasture and took a cow. This event is presented as a historical hoax.

Article 6: Glossary

• Parhelic phenomena (Parhelia): Refers to optical phenomena appearing around the Sun due to light refraction in ice crystals, often forming circles, light pillars, or mock suns. The article notes that these can sometimes be mistaken for UFOs when only partially visible.
• Gulf Breeze (Gulf Breeze): Observations in the town of Gulf Breeze, Florida, which became an epicenter for UFO sightings in the late 1980s.
• Hamilton (Hamilton): Refers to the hoax involving Alexander Hamilton and a claimed sighting of an airship.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the potential connection between UFOs and geophysical events like earthquakes, the role of electromagnetic fields, and the psychological impact of these encounters. The magazine appears to adopt a stance that encourages rigorous investigation while acknowledging the limitations of current scientific understanding and the possibility of advanced extraterrestrial intelligence. It presents both eyewitness accounts and theoretical explanations, often questioning conventional scientific paradigms. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry into anomalous phenomena, encouraging readers to share their experiences and contribute to the ongoing investigation.

Title: UFO Navigator
Issue: 3 (20)
Volume: 3
Date: 2001
Publisher: Russian Geographical Society
Country: Russia
Language: Russian

This issue of "UFO Navigator" delves into various aspects of ufology, with a strong focus on debunking hoaxes and critically examining pseudoscientific claims. The magazine features articles on alleged UFO encounters, extraterrestrial contactees, and the controversial concept of 'biopol'. It also includes book reviews and announcements of ufological events.

The Alex Hamilton Hoax

The issue begins by revisiting the sensational story of Alex Hamilton, who in 1897 claimed to have encountered a UFO and its occupants. The article reveals that Hamilton later confessed to fabricating the entire story, admitting he 'just lied about the whole thing.' This confession was published in the "Atchinson Country Mail" on May 7, 1897. The story had initially appeared in the "Yates Center Farmer's Advocate" on April 23, 1897, and was later reprinted by the "Buffalo Enterprise" in 1943. The original editor of the "Atchinson Country Mail," E. Hudson, corroborated that the story was a collaborative invention, created for amusement.

An elderly witness, E. Shaw, who was 98 years old in 1976, recalled the incident, stating that the 'club' that created the story was likely a 'Liar's Club' where members competed to invent the most outlandish tales. She confirmed that those who signed affidavits supporting Hamilton's story knew it was false but participated for fun.

Ganymede and Alien Encounters

The magazine then shifts focus to Ganymede, one of Jupiter's largest moons, noting its icy surface and the recent discovery of ozone traces, possibly from solar wind interaction. It highlights that in the 1950s and 1960s, many 'contactees,' particularly from Latin America, claimed to have met aliens from Ganymede.

One such contactee, Aladino Felix, recounted an alleged encounter in November 1952, where he and a friend were invited aboard a UFO. He described the captain of the craft as being very informative and promising future visits. Felix later published his experiences in a book under the pseudonym Dino Kraspedon. The article notes that Felix was later arrested as a gang leader in Brazil, and he threatened that his 'friends from space' would return to free him.

Another sensational account comes from Mexico, where two groups of young Mexicans reportedly visited a giant space station aboard a flying saucer. These individuals were described as tall, blond, blue-eyed humanoids dressed in seamless jumpsuits. They claimed to have traveled from Ganymede and possessed advanced knowledge, including familiarity with 700 Earth languages.

However, the article dismisses these accounts in light of modern research into the Jupiter system, suggesting they are fabrications.

Criticism and Bibliography

This section provides reviews of recent ufological literature. The rating system ranges from (+) 'throw in the trash' to [+++++] 'excellent, highly recommended.'

• "Mysteries of Living Earth" by Stanislav Ermakov and Tatyana Faminskaya: Reviewed positively as a good reissue with added material, calling it the best book on anomalous and sacred zones, essential for those visiting such areas. Rated [+++++].
• "Earth - Creation of Reason?" by Alim Voitsekhovsky: Described as a collection of diverse essays rather than a cohesive work. While some chapters are interesting, particularly those on 'delayed radio echo,' the author is criticized for rehashing popular magazine articles from the 1960s-80s without adding new value for ufologists. The book is rated [+++].

The review of Voitsekhovsky's book notes his admission that much of the information presented has likely been read or heard before, and his work covers popular 'proofs' of paleocontact. The reviewer suggests that while not groundbreaking for professionals, the book is not boring.

Announcements

The magazine includes announcements for upcoming events:

• A presentation by the editor of "UFO Navigator," Mikhail Gerstein, at the Russian Geographical Society on April 3, 2002, titled "Features of Perceiving Anomalous Phenomena and Their Use in Investigations."
• Other ufologist presentations in March-April 2002, including speakers K. K. Khazanovich, E. P. Litvinov, and O. S. Timinsky, at the Russian Geographical Society's address in St. Petersburg.

Miscellaneous: The Palindrome Phenomenon

A brief section touches upon the 'fatal palindrome' of the date 20.02.2002, which reads the same forwards and backward. It includes a quote from numerologist Victor Firsov, who dismisses such calendar coincidences as irrelevant to practical life, comparing them to guessing luck from a bus ticket. The article also mentions the next palindrome, 21.12-21.12-2112, and the Greek origin of the word 'palindrome' meaning 'running back.' A quote from Konstantin Portsevsky, former director of the Moscow Planetarium, dismisses such numerological interpretations as having no real impact.

Open Letter: The 'Biopol' Charlatans

The most substantial part of the issue is an open letter from members of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS) and the Russian Humanitarian Society (RGO) addressed to A. V. Kagan, vice-governor of St. Petersburg. The letter vehemently denounces the concept of 'biopol' and 'biopol correction' as pseudoscience.

The signatories argue that no specific 'biopol' exists beyond natural physical fields (acoustic, chemical, electromagnetic) that all living objects emit. They state that the idea of 'biopol' is a relic of medieval beliefs in a supernatural 'life force' and cannot be corrected or influenced by healers. Any perceived improvements in patients are attributed to psychotherapy and suggestion, not to any effect on a mythical 'biopol.'

The letter expresses dismay that state officials and medical experts, particularly in St. Petersburg, are patronizing 'biopol charlatans.' It highlights that the St. Petersburg branch of the RGO has issued diplomas to individuals specializing in 'Biopol Correction,' which the RAS members consider a fraudulent practice that undermines public health.

The letter urges A. V. Kagan to revoke decisions to issue diplomas to 'biopol correctors' and similar 'clairvoyants' to prevent legal action aimed at nullifying these diplomas and protecting citizens from harm.

The letter is signed by prominent academics from various institutions, including the RAS and RGO, from Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Novosibirsk.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "UFO Navigator" demonstrates a critical stance towards unsubstantiated claims in ufology and related fields. The magazine actively debunks hoaxes, such as the Alex Hamilton story, and exposes pseudoscientific concepts like 'biopol' correction, highlighting the scientific community's opposition to such practices. The editorial stance appears to favor evidence-based investigation and scientific rigor, while acknowledging the public's interest in anomalous phenomena. The inclusion of book reviews and event announcements suggests an aim to inform readers about current developments and literature within the ufology community, albeit with a discerning eye.