UFO Navigator - No 046 - 2002

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO НАВИГАТОР (UFO Navigator)
Issue: No. 46 (0046)
Date: December 2002
Publisher: Российский уфологический дайджест (Russian Ufological Digest)
Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of "UFO Navigator" focuses on detailed reports and analyses of UFO phenomena, with a prominent feature on the 1980 Woodbridge UFO incident. It also addresses the challenges and controversies within the ufology community, including debunking hoaxes and highlighting the importance of scientific methodology.

Main Cover Story: Details of UFO Sightings at Woodbridge Air Base

The lead story delves into the well-known case of UFO sightings near Woodbridge Air Base, UK, in late December 1980. The article presents the "Holt Memorandum," a document attributed to Lieutenant Colonel Charles I. Holt, Deputy Base Commander. The memorandum details events from December 27-28, 1980, including:

• Initial Sighting: Two USAF security patrolmen observed strange lights behind the base and were granted permission to investigate. They reported seeing a strange, glowing object described as metallic, triangular in shape, approximately 2-3 meters at the base and 2 meters in height. It emitted white light and pulsed with red light on top and blue lights below. The object maneuvered among trees and disappeared.
• Physical Traces: The following day, three indentations, 1.5 inches deep and 7 inches in diameter, were found on the ground where the object had been. Radiation measurements at these sites yielded 0.1 milliroentgen, with higher readings (0.5-0.7 milliroentgen) on a nearby tree.
• Subsequent Observations: Later that night, a red light resembling the sun was seen, which pulsed and then ejected glowing particles, splitting into five separate white objects that vanished. Three star-like objects were then observed in the sky, moving rapidly and exhibiting red, green, and blue lights.

The article notes that the original report was a 178-page document, and links are provided to download the full report. It also mentions that the "Holt Memorandum" was initially dated January 13, 1981, but later investigations revealed that the events occurred on the nights of December 25-26 and December 27-28, 1980. The audio recording of the event, made by Lt. Col. Holt, is also referenced, with a partial transcript provided.

The transcript details the observations of the patrolmen, including the object's movement, its light emissions, and the unusual behavior of animals on a nearby farm. The readings from a Geiger counter are also mentioned, indicating increased radiation levels.

News Briefs

• Recent UFO Sightings in Chile: The issue reports on two sightings in Chile. The first, on November 21st, involved a watchman observing a slow-moving, spherical object with red and green lights for 45 minutes. The second, on September 18th, described a glowing orange object that flew towards the Andes, later forming a triangle in the sky.
• Spanish Police Observe UFOs: Three police officers in Xàtiva, Spain, reported seeing unidentified objects emitting bright light. One sighting described a metallic object that ascended vertically. Radar at Manises airport did not detect any anomalies.
• Ufological Conference Resolution: The resolution from the 10th International Ufological Conference held in Moscow on October 26-27, 2002, is presented. It highlights the scientific progress in Russian ufology, the transition from descriptive to analytical methods, and the importance of scientific publications. The resolution also addresses the refutation of the 'no aliens' hypothesis and the challenges posed by those who seek to suppress ufological research.
• Cosmic News: A brief mention of "cosmic news" and "following our publications" is made, with a link for more details.

The Greatest Hoax in Petersburg Ufology

This section debunks a story published in the newspaper "Smena" about Viktor Zaitsev, a resident of Malyshevo, who allegedly created artificial holographic "saucers." The article reveals that Zaitsev's claims were based on distorted information from interviews with scientists at the Vavilov State Optical Institute. Journalist Yuri Sapankevich, who wrote the original article, is accused of fabricating the story and attempting to pass it off as a new report years later. The piece also details how the late Yuri Raytorovsky, chairman of the Ufological Commission of the RGO, investigated Sapankevich's claims and found them to be false, even uncovering evidence that Sapankevich had misled witnesses.

XXIV Siegels Readings: Report by N. Subbotin and A. Bychenkov

This section covers the XXIV Siegels Readings held in Moscow. A report by Nikolai Subbotin and Anatoly Bychenkov, titled "Practical Experience in Developing Software for Ufological Research," is highlighted. The report emphasizes the need for professional approaches to data collection and analysis in ufology, utilizing personal computers and specialized software, including databases and program tools.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a scientific and investigative approach to ufology, seeking to uncover factual information and debunk hoaxes. There is a clear stance against the secrecy surrounding UFO phenomena, advocating for transparency. The publication also highlights the challenges faced by researchers, including skepticism from the scientific community and deliberate attempts to discredit or suppress ufological work. The importance of rigorous methodology, empirical evidence, and open discussion is a recurring theme throughout the issue.

This issue of "UFO Navigator" (Volume 1, Issue 50, December 2002) delves into the technical and informational aspects of ufological research, with a strong emphasis on software development and database management. The magazine explores the current state of UFO data collection, analysis, and dissemination, while also reporting on recent astronomical events and investigating specific UFO cases.

Software and Databases for Ufology

The issue highlights the critical need for specialized software and standardized processes in ufological research. It outlines a systematic approach to creating a specialized UFO database, involving analysis of information flows, database structure design, software development, and the creation of tools for statistical analysis and information exchange.

UFOCAT: The magazine identifies the "UFOCAT" project, founded by Dr. David Saunders, as the world's largest database of UFO sightings, containing over 150,000 observations. Information was collected by Saunders and the KUFOС center until 1980. The project was later revived by Donald Johnson, a former colleague of Saunders. UFOCAT's database structure allows for formalizing information on dozens of parameters, including date, location, weather, eyewitness accounts, and consequences for witnesses, though it lacks narrative details.

International Databases: Beyond UFOCAT, the article mentions other significant databases, such as the "MUFON Database" maintained by the American organization MUFON, which focuses on specific aspects of ufology like abductions and UFO effects on vehicles.

UFO Database (Larry Hatch): Larry Hatch's "UFO Database" is cited as a notable ufological program for working with data arrays, despite its outdated interface. It incorporates key ideas from research by Mac-Campbell and Jacques Vallee.

Valentin Golts' Database: In Russia, ufologist Valentin Golts is credited with possessing the largest data array, comprising about 5000 reports, 3000 of which have been processed and entered onto punch cards.

"Pandora" DBMS: The development of a comprehensive software complex for ufological research is underway by ONITS "Cosmopoisk" and the "RUFORS" ufological station. This project aims to create a standardized, formalized system for recording UFO and anomalous phenomenon observations. The "Pandora" DBMS is presented as a functional beta version, designed for local, network, and internet use. Its features include data accumulation, primary processing, search and retrieval, and export capabilities. The budget for a full-featured version is estimated at 80,000 rubles.

"Aurora" IPAS: The "Aurora" Information-Retrieval Analytical System (IPAS) is described as an advanced product building upon "Pandora." It includes analytical modules for comparing observation dates with satellite launch data and celestial events, and for comparative analysis of phenomena. An agreement with Larry Hatch allows for import-export modules between their databases, potentially expanding the reach of the Russian software internationally.

"Stringer" AON: The "Stringer" Automated News Processing (AON) project aims to create an online search tool for monitoring and analyzing news. It collects and indexes daily news documents from various online portals, storing them in an offline database for analysis, categorization, and distribution as press releases or custom news feeds. The estimated cost for "Stringer" development is 60,000 rubles.

Key Incidents and Observations

Gamma-Ray Burst (October 4, 2002): The magazine reports on a powerful gamma-ray burst detected by NASA's "HETE-2" satellite in the constellation Pisces. The event, designated GRB 021004, was the most studied of its kind in 32 years, with its afterglow observed for 13 hours. The burst's origin was estimated to be 10.5 million light-years away. Astronomers theorize that these bursts are caused by the ejection of matter from collapsing stars forming black holes.

"Fiery Ball" over Seattle (November 28, 2002): Eyewitnesses reported a "fiery ball" over Seattle, identified as a burning stage of a Russian rocket. It was described as moving slower than a meteor and eventually breaking into two parts.

Unidentified "Fiery Body" over Washington (December 2, 2002): The origin of a "fiery body" observed over Washington remained unclear, with one expert suggesting it was a bolide (a natural object). Eyewitnesses expressed fear of a potential explosion.

"Mysterious Rhombus" Sightings (Rome and Leningrad): The issue extensively discusses two photographic cases from Rome (1978) and Leningrad (1977) featuring a mysterious "rhombus" shape in the night sky. Initially considered evidence of alien spacecraft, detailed phototechnical analysis and experiments revealed that these images were caused by "lens flares" – reflections from camera lenses, particularly from multi-lens cameras like the "Zenith" or "FED." The oval shapes seen in simpler cameras were attributed to "lens flares" from "point-and-shoot" cameras.

Kolpino Contact (December 3, 1981): A detailed account from Margarita Nikolaevna Eroshina describes an encounter in Kolpino, Russia, involving strange buzzing sounds, a bright light illuminating her newspaper, and a pulsating light rectangle that moved across her table. The following day, she reported seeing a semi-circular, luminous outline in her kitchen.

Cattle Mutilation in Argentina: A report from Aguirre Province, Argentina, describes the mutilation of a cow with precise surgical cuts and the removal of reproductive organs, eyes, and soft tissue. The farmer, Oscar Suarez, noted that the carcass did not decompose for five days despite hot weather.

Space Missions: Brief mentions are made of the "Stardust" mission collecting cosmic dust samples from comet Wild-2 for analysis, and the planned flight of the space shuttle "Columbia" with the first Israeli astronaut, Ilan Ramon, to study atmospheric dust and its impact on climate.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes the importance of scientific rigor, data analysis, and the development of robust technological tools for ufological research. It advocates for a systematic, evidence-based approach, distinguishing between genuine anomalies and misidentifications or optical illusions. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious investigation, seeking to demystify phenomena through technical analysis and scientific explanation, while acknowledging the existence of unexplained cases. There is a clear focus on the practical application of computer science and information technology to the field of ufology, aiming to elevate its credibility and research standards. The magazine also highlights international collaboration and the exchange of information among researchers.

This issue of "UFO Magazine" (Volume 1, Issue 1 (125), dated December 1998) is a Russian publication focusing on UFO phenomena, investigations, and related topics. The cover headline boldly proclaims "UFOs: The Truth is Out There," setting a tone of serious inquiry into the subject.

Reported UFO Sightings and Encounters

The magazine presents several detailed accounts of UFO sightings and encounters from various locations:

Switzerland and Russia

• Ticino, Switzerland (December 1988): A 70-year-old resident of Genthilino reported a triangular UFO hovering 80-90 meters from her home, illuminated by blue and red lights. Notably, her alarm clock stopped during the observation.
• Pushkin, Russia (December 1989): T. V. Lyakh observed a large black dot descending at an angle, leaving a black trail. It later turned red, becoming a prolonged "cigar" shape, and then a smaller part detached and flew away. The object eventually dissolved into the air. Another witness, A. F. Ryashina, saw a point of light flash and fall in a zigzag pattern, with smoke clouds detaching. A gray "cigar" then appeared and disappeared. L. N. Belova witnessed two unusual clouds, one resembling a spherical mass like two stacked plates with flashing lights, which moved and disappeared.
• Pushkin, Russia (January 1990): A red, cigar-shaped object was seen near a house.

Africa

• Gulf of Aden, Somali Land (December 1995): The self-proclaimed republic of Somali Land requested international aid to investigate two explosions of unidentified flying objects. Local residents reported illnesses, particularly affecting children, some of whom died. Animals exhibited unusual behavior, and low-flying objects and their explosions were witnessed.

Chile

• Chilean Government Investigation: Chile joined other nations in investigating UFOs by establishing the CEFAA (Commission for the Study of Anomalous Atmospheric Phenomena) under the Directorate General of Civil Aviation. The commission is headed by Colonel Enzo Dinocera and aims to study radar sightings and pilot observations.
• "Flying Cities": Rodrigo Fuenzalida of AION reported a case from 1988 where military pilots saw what they initially thought was the city of Antofagasta, but it then lifted off and flew away. Another similar sighting of a "flying city" occurred in April 1996 between Punta Arenas and Puerto Williams.
• Los Cerrillos Airport (October 1996): Aircraft mechanic Joaquin Jimenez observed an object hovering near the runway at approximately 50 mph and 200 meters altitude, surrounded by a green phosphorescent glow. It descended, emitted red light from its underside, and then flew north.
• Pelluco (July 29, 1965): A famous case involved a landed UFO that created a trench 250 feet long, 50 feet wide, and 3 feet deep. The trench was photographed.
• Los Angeles, Chile (April 16, 1990): An incident where a UFO allegedly knocked over a house. Another report from two years later mentioned a UFO tearing off a house's roof.
• Northern Chile: A witness named Juan Tae reported a "cigar" touching a mountain peak, causing a flash. Fragments of strange metal were found, analyzed by laboratories in Japan and Chile, revealing a composition of copper, zinc, and aluminum with unusual isotopic ratios.

Russia

• Verkhne Gribovo (August 1990): Sergei Dmitrievich Gusev investigated a third-kind encounter involving Boris Pavlovich Zabavnikov. Zabavnikov witnessed a red point of light that moved significantly, followed by a bright white sphere hovering about 20-30 cm above the ground. The sphere changed color to bright blue and emitted sequences of light. Later, red lights appeared, and the sphere resumed its blue glow. The event lasted about an hour. At 2:40 AM, the sphere emitted a white light, and an elliptical shape appeared. A strange, dog-like creature without a tail, ears, or eyes, about a meter tall and 1.5 meters long, ran past Zabavnikov's property. The creature was described as being covered in a smooth, aluminum-colored material and moved on thin legs.

Cattle Mutilations

The magazine discusses "cattle mutilations," a phenomenon involving the inexplicable death of animals with precise surgical incisions, complete exsanguination, and the removal of specific organs. These cases are often linked to UFO activity and are characterized by the absence of struggle, lack of blood, and unusual traces such as landing marks or radioactivity.

UFO Projects and Legislation

• Project "Grudge" (1948-1951): This US Air Force project studied UFOs. Initially, it aimed to investigate sightings, but later focused on finding non-cosmic explanations and calming public fears. Despite its efforts, 20% of the reported cases remained unexplained.
• NASA Law on Extraterrestrial Influence: A law enacted on July 16, 1969, allows NASA to take severe measures to prevent the contamination of Earth by extraterrestrial life forms. This includes quarantine procedures for individuals, property, and animals returning from space missions or exposed to extraterrestrial contact. The law defines "extraterrestrial influence" and outlines the powers of the Administrator to impose quarantine and ensure security.

Bibliography and Announcements

The issue includes a "Criticism and Bibliography" section with a rating system for ufological publications. It also features an announcement about the "Cosmopoisk" organization, which is expanding its network of regional representatives across Russia, providing contact information for various branches.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, government investigations into UFOs, alleged alien encounters, and the physical evidence left behind by these phenomena. The magazine appears to adopt a serious and investigative stance, presenting witness testimonies and official reports while also exploring more controversial topics like cattle mutilations and potential extraterrestrial threats, as evidenced by the inclusion of the NASA law. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to consider the possibility of extraterrestrial activity based on the presented evidence.

This issue of "UFO" magazine, dated December 2002 (Volume 2002, Issue 12), delves into a variety of intriguing topics, including alleged technological breakthroughs, ancient discoveries, and unexplained phenomena. The publication appears to be from Russia, with original content in Russian.

Key Articles and Reports

Schoolchildren Build Antigravity Device?

The magazine reports on a sensational claim from Dearborn, USA, where schoolchildren have allegedly constructed an "antigravity machine." The creators, 16-year-old Luke Duncan, 17-year-old Ethan Rayn, and 16-year-old Jim Bergren, are reportedly so confident in their device that they plan to demonstrate it at the "Metro-Detroit Science Fair 2002-2003." The article describes the device as silent, without propellers, jet engines, or motors, capable of flying quickly and high. Its only power source is a thin electric cable connected to a fuselage made of balsa wood and foil. The students reportedly collaborated with physicists and inventors worldwide via the internet, including Russian physicist Podkletnov, who is allegedly working on an antigravity machine at Boeing based on superconductivity, and French inventor Jean-Louis Naudin. However, the students themselves admit uncertainty about the exact principles behind its flight, stating, "We simply don't know what exactly makes it fly... and now we are just considering different theories." A video of the device's flight is available online.

Ancient Writings of America

Another report details a significant archaeological discovery in San Andres, Mexico. American archaeologists have announced the uncovering of the oldest known writing system in the Americas, predating the Maya civilization and dating back to approximately 650 BC. This writing is attributed to the Olmec people. The hieroglyphs are found on a cylindrical seal and a tablet, discovered alongside other Olmec artifacts. The Olmecs are noted as the first civilization in the Americas with a developed social hierarchy, reflected in the inscriptions. The symbol for "king" and a 260-day sacred calendar are mentioned. Archaeologists believe this seal may have been used to mark royal property, clothing, utensils, and possibly even people. Kevin Pope, one of the authors of the study published in "Science," notes the similarity of these symbols to those used in later Maya periods, suggesting the Olmecs invented this writing system, which was later adopted by the Maya. The discovery site in San Andres is considered a potential birthplace of writing for all major American civilizations. The report cites "Science," "BBC Russian Service" (December 6), and "USA Today" (December 9, 2002).

What is Exploding in Washington?

Residents of Washington D.C. are reportedly concerned about loud explosions emanating from a building that houses the residence of U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney. These explosions, described as powerful enough to shake walls and rattle windows in nearby homes, occur at least three times daily. The official explanation has been withheld due to the "highly delicate nature of this project related to national security." However, local residents have been informed that the work will continue for another eight months. American journalists speculate that the explosions are the result of quarrying in the granite massif beneath the building, possibly for the construction of an underground bunker for the Vice President in case of nuclear war or terrorist attacks. Ufologist J. Trainor humorously or seriously suggested that Cheney's residence might be connected to an "ancient system of underground tunnels, possibly from the time of Atlantis, which also run under Washington." This information is sourced from "UFO Roundup," No. 50, December 10, 2002, and a related Izvestia article.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of unexplained phenomena, advanced or mysterious technologies, and ancient mysteries. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on claims and speculations within the UFO and fringe science communities, presenting information from various sources, including scientific journals, news reports, and specialized publications like "UFO Roundup." The inclusion of contact information for numerous regional "Kosmopoisk" (Cosmosearch) groups across Russia suggests a focus on fostering a community of researchers and enthusiasts in the field of ufology and related subjects.