UFO Navigator - No 091 - 2005

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO Navigator
Issue: No. 12 (0091)
Date: December 2005
Publisher: UFO Navigator
Country: Russia
Language: Russian

This issue of "UFO Navigator" is a Russian ufological digest focusing on significant events and discussions within the field. The cover prominently features the 40th anniversary of the "Kekersburg UFO crash" and includes a quote from Boris Grebenshchikov's poem "Flying Saucer."

Main Articles and Features

Forty Years Since the "Kekersburg UFO Crash"

The lead story details the 40th anniversary of the mysterious event in Kekersburg, Pennsylvania, on December 9, 1965. Ufologist Stan Gordon, who has investigated the case since its inception, believes it to be a very serious incident. The article outlines the events, including the sighting of a bright bolide that exploded in the sky over Michigan and the subsequent crash of an unknown object in Pennsylvania. Military forces quickly cordoned off the area, and witnesses reported seeing unusual objects being removed. Descriptions of the object vary, with some calling it a "round object, slowly gliding towards the treetops," and others describing it as a "bell-shaped object with protrusions and hieroglyphs."

Several witnesses are quoted, including 15-year-old Robert Blustone Jr., who saw a "round object, slowly gliding towards the treetops," and Bill Bulbush, who described the object as trying to fly over mountains but failing, making a U-turn and descending. Local resident Larry Snyder and his friends were stopped by soldiers who claimed a meteorite had crashed. Bill Weaver saw a man in civilian clothes order him to turn off his headlights. Jerry Betters, a musician, described the object as "bell-shaped" with "hieroglyphs." Michael Sater and his brother were asked by military personnel to misdirect people seeking the crash site.

Robert Getty, a journalist, noted the unprecedented military presence in Kekersburg. James Romanski, a firefighter, described the object as a "very large metallic object, not a normal airplane," with no visible doors, windows, or wings, and shaped like a "large acorn." He also mentioned a "rounded protrusion inscribed with something like 'ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs.'" Bill Weaver reported seeing a truck carrying something large, wrapped in canvas, escorted by military vehicles.

Lillian Hayes's home was occupied by military and civilian personnel. Her son, John Hayes, recalled seeing men in white protective suits and an emblem of "NASA" on one of them. He also saw a military truck carrying an object the size of a "Volkswagen."

Don Sebastian described seeing a "tight formation of soldiers, about a hundred men, heavily armed," moving in unison near the crash site, and hearing a "terrible, inhuman scream."

KGB Chairman Denies UFO Reality

In an interview with "Komsomolskaya Pravda" on December 6, 2005, former KGB Chairman Vladimir Kryuchkov stated that there had never been a single case confirmed by material evidence of the existence of UFOs or supernatural phenomena. He explained that his department investigated rumors about unexplained events, including UFOs and "snowmen," but all cases turned out to be products of imagination or deliberate sensationalism. Kryuchkov asserted that even foreign intelligence agencies, after investigating similar events, concluded there was nothing extraordinary.

However, the article suggests Kryuchkov might not have heard of the "Blue Package," a compilation of UFO observations declassified by former KGB Deputy Chairman N. Sham in 1991. It also mentions that some unexplained cases from the USSR Ministry of Defense's "Setka-MO" documents were passed to the KGB.

Alexander Wendt on UFOs and Government Secrecy

Alexander Wendt, a researcher from Ohio University, suggests that governments traditionally assume UFOs cannot be extraterrestrial, which he calls a "false premise." He argues that authorities and scientists systematically avoid studying the phenomenon, creating a taboo. Wendt believes that governments fear the implications of UFOs being extraterrestrial, as it would challenge their sovereignty. He notes a "collective denial" of UFO facts, even if the probability of an extraterrestrial connection is low. He posits that contact with an alien civilization would be the most significant event in human history, comparable to the descent of gods.

Wendt highlights the immense cost of researching UFOs (hundreds of millions of dollars) and the lack of government funding or interest, possibly due to fear. He concludes that while we cannot definitively prove extraterrestrial existence, the search should continue, similar to the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI).

The "Cosmos-96" Theory

The article explores the theory that the Kekersburg object might have been the Soviet probe "Cosmos-96." This probe reportedly entered the Earth's atmosphere over southeastern Canada on December 9, 1965, matching the date and general shape (acorn or bell) of the Kekersburg object. Colonel Rodney Leisy of the US Air Force confirmed the probe's failed launch. The secrecy surrounding the event could be explained by the US wanting to examine the advanced Soviet technology. However, Stan Gordon discovered that "Cosmos-96" entered the atmosphere at 3:18 AM, 13 hours before the Kekersburg incident. Roscosmos officials could not find a direct link, and NASA's Nicholas Johnson stated that no fragments of "Cosmos-96" could have fallen in Pennsylvania.

James Romanski, who saw the object, described it as not being Russian or American in origin, but made by non-humans. However, Romanski's credibility is questioned due to his criminal record. Despite this, the "hieroglyphs" seen on the object were also reported by other witnesses.

China Establishes UFO Research Station

China's Guizhou province announced the receipt of 160 million yuan (20 million dollars) to build a UFO research station. The funding comes from an unnamed company in Taiwan. The chosen location in Baiyun district was selected due to past reports of alien encounters and unusual phenomena, including trees being felled and a truck being moved by an unknown force.

Asians Believe in Extraterrestrials

A survey by the marketing firm "Synovate" across China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, and Korea revealed that a majority of Asians believe in extraterrestrial life. Over 64% of respondents believe intelligent life exists on other planets. Approximately 10% of Asians believe they have seen a UFO, and 3% believe they have encountered aliens. The survey estimates over 250 million UFO sightings and 80 million alien contacts in these countries.

Chinese (81%) and Hong Kong residents (70%) are most inclined to believe in extraterrestrials. India has the highest UFO sighting rate (13%), followed by Korea (10%), and China (9%).

Sensations of the XXIX Ziegelsky Readings

The XXIX Ziegelsky Readings, a conference on UFOs and anomalous phenomena, featured presentations from military personnel who had encountered UFOs during their service. Pilot-tester Alexander Veniaminovich Akimenkov shared his experiences, including an encounter in 1968 with what he described as a stratospheric balloon filled with hydrogen that was shot down, and a subsequent sighting of a UFO that flew alongside his aircraft. He also recounted an incident in 1983 involving a pyramid-shaped object with lights near Akhtubinsk.

Another pilot described an encounter with a large, bluish "tank"-like object hovering over a parking area, which was photographed by pilots. The photos were confiscated.

"Cosmopoisk" on UFOs and Scientific Inquiry

Alexander Petukhov of "Cosmopoisk" presented a theoretical overview of UFO phenomena. He noted that over 58 years, approximately 2 million reports of anomalous phenomena (AP) and UFOs have been collected globally, indicating a persistent presence of unidentified objects. Petukhov questioned why official science is hesitant to acknowledge UFOs, suggesting fear of novelty, resistance to changing scientific paradigms, or a lack of perceived research value.

He argued that the term "anomalous" simply means that current science cannot explain it, not that the phenomenon doesn't exist. Petukhov highlighted that UFOs are not necessarily "unscientific" and that their observation in the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and cosmos is a factual matter.

Petukhov emphasized the importance of reproducibility in science, noting that while UFOs are difficult to reproduce in a lab, so are phenomena like ball lightning or quasars. He stated that statistical studies of UFO data reveal recurring patterns in shapes, colors, dynamics, and effects, suggesting a planetary distribution and not limited to one nation.

He also addressed the criticism that UFO reports are unreliable due to the lack of expertise among witnesses. However, he pointed out that even folklore about mythical creatures serves as a basis for scientific study. Petukhov mentioned that many UFO reports come from professionals like astronauts, pilots, and meteorologists.

The main obstacle between ufologists and academia, according to Petukhov, is the origin of UFOs. He discussed the two main categories of hypotheses: natural processes and extraterrestrial intelligence. He stressed that while the principle of "presumption of naturalness" should be applied, it should not lead to the dismissal of facts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the topic of UFOs and anomalous phenomena, emphasizing witness testimonies and questioning official denials. There's a recurring theme of government secrecy and potential cover-ups, particularly concerning incidents like the Kekersburg crash. The publication seems to lean towards the possibility of extraterrestrial origins for some UFOs, while also acknowledging the need for rigorous scientific investigation and the challenges in proving such hypotheses. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging the collection and analysis of data, even when it challenges established scientific paradigms.

This issue of UFO Magazine, dated November 2005, explores a range of unexplained aerial phenomena, UFO sightings, and related scientific and speculative discussions. The cover prominently features the headline "UFOs are constantly visiting Yalta," highlighting a local report of unusual sightings.

Analysis of the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis

The article begins by critically examining the 'extraterrestrial hypothesis' (ETH) for UFOs, which posits that UFOs are spacecraft from advanced civilizations. It acknowledges the hypothesis's popularity and the observed 'intelligent' or 'systemic' behavior of some UFOs, such as hovering over sensitive locations like nuclear power plants and military bases. However, it questions the necessity of vast alien fleets for information gathering, suggesting that modern technology could achieve this much more efficiently. The author points out that only about 20% of UFO reports involve 'apparatus-like' phenomena, and that the ETH is not without internal contradictions. The article suggests that many sightings might have more mundane explanations, such as secret technological tests or poorly understood natural optical phenomena.

UFO Sightings in Yalta

A detailed account describes a sighting in Yalta on November 15th, where a resident reported a very bright object in the sky, initially mistaken for a lantern, which was later identified as a pulsating red sphere. The head of the astronomical observatory at the MDC "Artek," Yuri Onishchenko, confirms that similar phenomena have been observed in the Yalta region since 1978. These sightings typically involve a reddish ball that pulses, changes color, and moves southwest before disappearing. Using astronomical instruments, observers have described the object as a red ball that briefly changes color and emits a smoke-like trail before fading. Measurements using laser technology indicated a distance of approximately 400 kilometers, suggesting the phenomenon might be occurring over Turkey. Onishchenko suggests that terrestrial causes, such as classified tests or natural optical phenomena, are more likely than alien spacecraft.

Cosmonaut's Encounter in Space

Major General Talgat Musabaev, a pilot-cosmonaut and Hero of Russia, shares a personal experience of encountering something mysterious in space. During a spacewalk, his safety tether detached, leaving him adrift and facing a seemingly hopeless situation. He describes an inexplicable event where he was inexplicably returned to the safety of the spacecraft without any physical contact or external force. Musabaev expresses a strong intuition that space is inhabited by other forms of life, which remain undetected by conventional means but are felt intuitively.

Psychological Explanations for Space Encounters

Another cosmonaut's experience is discussed, where they felt strange impulses and premonitions while observing constellations. Dr. Alexander Volkovich, a doctor of medical sciences, suggests that such experiences might be hallucinations caused by the unusual conditions of spaceflight, including weightlessness, high radiation, and magnetic fields. He posits that information might emerge from the subconscious, leading to vivid visions. He also mentions the possibility of galactic radiation triggering these 'dreams' or altered states of consciousness.

Astronomical Discoveries

The magazine reports on astronomical findings, including the discovery of a second satellite orbiting the Kuiper Belt object 2003 EL61, a dwarf planet. This discovery brings the number of trans-Neptunian objects with multiple satellites to two. The object 2003 EL61 itself, discovered two years prior, is described as cigar-shaped and rapidly rotating. Its first satellite was previously identified. The newly found satellite is significantly fainter, suggesting it is smaller. The article notes that larger Kuiper Belt objects are more likely to possess satellites, though the mechanism is not yet understood. It also touches upon the ongoing debate about Pluto's planetary status, suggesting that based on current discoveries, it may no longer warrant classification as a planet solely due to tradition.

Space Mission Updates

Updates are provided on several space missions. The Japanese spacecraft 'Hayabusa' faces uncertainty due to engine malfunctions, raising doubts about its ability to collect asteroid samples. The Mars rover 'Opportunity' experienced a manipulator failure but was repaired. The American interplanetary probe 'Stardust' is nearing Earth, with its sample return capsule expected to land in Utah in January 2006. The issue also mentions a test launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile 'Topol' by the Russian Strategic Rocket Forces and a successful launch of a Brazilian geophysical rocket VSB-30 from Sweden. Furthermore, Japan's space agency JAXA reported a successful experiment in space data transmission using a laser beam, achieving significantly higher speeds than conventional radio signals.

The Mystery of the Nazca Lines

Leonid Ksanfomaliti, head of the laboratory of planetary physics at the Institute of Space Research of the Russian Academy of Sciences, proposes that the Nazca lines might be the result of a high-tech laser tool, possibly used for calibration. He suggests that the lines, etched into the desert surface, could be byproducts of a powerful technological operation. The lines are estimated to have been created from an altitude of about 40 km. The article questions the purpose and energy expenditure required for such an operation, dismissing theories that the lines served as a spaceport or astronomical calendar.

Reports of Unusual Aerial Phenomena

The magazine presents several anecdotal reports of unusual aerial phenomena:

• 'Comet' over Lake Onega: An eyewitness described seeing a comet-like object with a bright white tail moving at high speed, which then changed direction and its tail turned orange-yellow. A bright, stationary object was also observed nearby.
• Semi-sphere over Leningrad: A former soldier reported observing a perfectly spherical, gray cloud-like object over Leningrad in 1979. The object appeared to be a semi-sphere, with its density increasing towards the edges. Over time, its diameter appeared to increase, and it eventually disappeared.
• Orange cylinder over Novosibirsk: Residents reported seeing a military jet followed by a small, glowing orange cylinder moving slowly across the sky.
• Mysterious 'cloud' over Barnaul: An individual described seeing a small, pink-tinged cumulus cloud hovering in their courtyard, which then slowly dissipated, coinciding with the sudden return of normal sounds and activity in the area. This phenomenon is referred to as the 'oz-factor' in ufology.

Historical UFO Accounts

The issue includes a section on historical UFO reports:

• Colored balls over Bulgaria (1978): Two luminous spheres were observed over Bokot, Bulgaria. One appeared as a bright red and silver ball, the other as a blueish sphere. They hovered and moved before disappearing.
• Oval UFO near Bryansk (1983): An eyewitness reported seeing an oval-shaped object, approximately 7 meters long and 1.5 meters high, flying at an altitude of about 40 meters and moving in a zigzag pattern.
• 'White Man' in Chuvashia (1987): Residents reported sightings of a 'white man' and a 'white old woman', described as being 1.2-1.8 meters tall.
• Two balls over Leningrad (1989): Two bright spheres were observed over Leningrad, casting a pinkish glow on the surroundings. One witness described seeing three luminous balls forming a triangle, with a cylindrical object appearing between the lower two.

The Fatima Miracle and Atmospheric Phenomena

The article discusses the 'miracle of Fatima' in Portugal in 1917, where a large crowd of approximately 70,000 people witnessed a phenomenon involving the sun. While described with great emotion, the event is also analyzed in terms of atmospheric optics, mirages, and psychological factors like motivated perception. The author notes that the description is highly emotional and that scientific debates continue regarding its explanation, with some suggesting it could be an unusual atmospheric optical phenomenon.

Early UFO Reports and Research

The magazine references an 1887 report from the French journal "L'Astronomie" about a large fiery ball emerging from the Atlantic Ocean and hovering near a ship. It also mentions the extensive work of Charles Fort, who compiled numerous historical accounts of strange aerial phenomena in his books, providing a rich source of material for researchers, even if his interpretations were often speculative.

The Origin of the 'Flying Saucer' Term

The term 'flying saucer' is attributed to Texas farmer John Martin, who in 1878 described a dark, disc-shaped object moving at high speed. The term gained wider currency decades later. The article also touches upon early military interest in UFOs during World War II, with pilots reporting unidentified glowing objects, leading to terms like 'foo-fighters' and 'gremlins'. A secret research group was formed in Britain in 1943 to investigate these phenomena, and a similar project was conducted by the US Air Force in 1947.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO Magazine maintains a critical yet open stance towards UFO phenomena. While debunking simplistic or unsubstantiated claims, it acknowledges the existence of unexplained events and encourages scientific investigation. The magazine emphasizes the importance of rigorous methodology, statistical analysis, and the pursuit of knowledge that expands our understanding of natural laws. It highlights the need to differentiate between factual reports and speculative interpretations, particularly concerning the extraterrestrial hypothesis. The recurring themes include the analysis of eyewitness accounts, the search for scientific explanations, the examination of historical records, and the ongoing exploration of space and its potential mysteries.

Title: Flying Saucer Review
Issue: Vol. 13 No. 1
Date: January 1967
Publisher: Flying Saucer Review
Country: United Kingdom
Price: 3s. 6d.

This issue of Flying Saucer Review focuses on several key UFO incidents and analyses, aiming to provide a scientific and historical perspective on the phenomenon. It features articles on the early sightings that popularized the term 'flying saucers,' astronaut encounters, and unexplained aerial phenomena.

The Genesis of the 'Flying Saucer' Era: The Kenneth Arnold Sighting

The issue begins by revisiting the landmark sighting by pilot Kenneth Arnold on June 24, 1947. While flying near Mount Rainier, Washington, Arnold observed nine mysterious objects moving at high speed. His description, particularly the comparison of their movement to a 'saucer skipping over water,' led to the popularization of the term 'flying saucers.' The report details the characteristics of these objects as described by Arnold and a US Air Force research group: disc-shaped, large, fast, highly maneuverable, with metallic surfaces, and often flying in formation. The document notes that this event, though not the first UFO sighting, became a major catalyst for public and scientific interest.

The 'Green Fireball' Incident and Other Early Cases

The magazine then recounts the 'Green Fireball' incident of January 7, 1948, in the USA, considered a classic case in UFO literature. This event involved a large, spherical object sighted over Kentucky, which was pursued by a military pilot who subsequently died. The article also touches upon other early sightings, including one near Tacoma, Washington, where a spherical object reportedly dropped stones, and another involving a mysterious aerial object near Mount Rainier that emitted stones resembling lava.

The Washington D.C. Sightings of 1952

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the widely publicized UFO sightings over Washington D.C. in July 1952. The events involved multiple unidentified objects tracked on radar and visually observed by civilians and military personnel. The article includes testimony from Al Chop, a government official at the Pentagon, describing the radar contacts and the scramble of fighter jets that failed to intercept the objects. The official explanation provided by the USAF, attributing the sightings to temperature inversions, is presented but met with skepticism from scientists and the public, who questioned whether these were indeed atmospheric phenomena or extraterrestrial craft.

Astronaut Encounters with UFOs

The issue explores the possibility of UFO encounters during space missions. It details the Gemini 4 mission in 1965, where astronaut James McDivitt reported seeing a cylindrical object with protruding parts. NASA identified it as a Pegasus-2 satellite or a Titan rocket booster, but McDivitt himself later expressed uncertainty, stating he could not definitively identify the object.

The Apollo 12 mission in 1969 is also discussed, with reports of astronauts observing bright objects during their lunar orbit and descent. The article mentions that three unidentified objects were seen, and their observation was captured on film. While NASA suggested explanations like parts of the lunar module or spacecraft components, the exact nature of these objects remained a subject of speculation. The issue also touches upon other alleged anomalies during the Apollo missions, such as unusual photographic evidence and reports of 'unearthly voices.'

Analysis and Hypotheses

The magazine presents various hypotheses regarding the nature of UFOs, including meteorological balloons, reflections of sunlight, and conventional aircraft. However, it also highlights the limitations of these explanations in accounting for the observed characteristics and behaviors of the phenomena. The article questions the scientific value of some early UFO reports, suggesting that while Arnold's sighting has historical significance, its scientific merit is debatable due to the subjective nature of the observations.

The 'Disk' Chase of 1958

Another case detailed is the encounter of Jean Boyer in France in 1958. Boyer reported observing a large, disc-shaped object hovering over a bridge, which then ascended rapidly with a burst of sparks. The article notes that this observation, along with others from multiple witnesses, suggests the objects were artificial rather than natural phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the persistent mystery of unidentified flying objects, the challenges in obtaining definitive explanations, and the skepticism often met by UFO reports from official sources. The editorial stance appears to favor a critical examination of evidence, acknowledging the historical significance of key sightings like Kenneth Arnold's, while also exploring the possibility of extraterrestrial origins and questioning official explanations. The magazine aims to present a comprehensive overview of significant UFO cases, encouraging further investigation and open-mindedness towards the phenomenon.

This issue of "UFO" magazine delves into numerous documented encounters with unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and alleged extraterrestrial beings. It presents a collection of witness testimonies, investigations, and speculative theories surrounding these phenomena, spanning various decades and geographical locations.

Key Incidents and Sightings

The magazine details several prominent UFO incidents:

The Ohio Pursuit

The issue begins with an account of a police chase involving a UFO in Ohio. Officer Wayne Houston describes an object resembling an "ice cream cone" with a pointed bottom and a tower-like top, flying at an altitude of approximately 300 meters.

Encounters with Humanoids

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to reports of UFOs landing and small, humanoid beings emerging. These accounts often describe the beings as wearing white suits and interacting with the environment or witnesses.

#### George Adamski's Claims

George Adamski, an American of Polish descent, is mentioned for his widely publicized claims of contact with extraterrestrials in the 1950s. While many researchers were skeptical, the magazine notes the persistent nature of such reports.

#### The Socorro, New Mexico Incident (April 24, 1964)

Police officer Lonnie Zamora reported seeing a UFO land near Socorro. He described the object as aluminum-like, about 4 meters high and 5 meters wide, with four metallic legs and a red emblem. He also observed two small, human-like figures near the craft. Investigations at the scene revealed landing marks and scorched soil.

#### International Sightings

The magazine compiles reports from various countries:

• Death Valley, USA (August 19, 1949): Two prospectors witnessed a disc-shaped object land, and two short individuals emerged.
• Brush Creek, California, USA (May 20, 1953): Prospectors reported a saucer-shaped craft landing, with two small humanoids emerging. One humanoid collected water in a silver container.
• Rio Pardo, Brazil (November 4, 1954): A fisherman observed a disc-shaped object land, and three short, dark-skinned beings emerged. They collected plants and water.
• Lina Bela Vista, Brazil (December 9, 1954): A peasant witnessed a helmet-shaped object land, and two beings emerged. One examined a hoe and collected plants.
• Saint-Ambroix, France (October 14, 1954): Witnesses saw seven small beings approach a glowing object that then flew away.
• Meral, France (October 14, 1954): A farmer observed a glowing, transparent dome-shaped object land. A dark silhouette was visible inside.
• Nimes-Courbessac, France (November 15, 1954): A cigar-shaped yellow object with illuminated windows was sighted.
• Ouamora, Morocco (October 12, 1954): A French engineer saw a 1.2-meter tall being enter an object that then ascended rapidly.
• Oregampos, France (October 12, 1954): A peasant reported a small humanoid entering a flying object that moved along the ground.
• Lina Bela Vista, Brazil (December 11, 1954): A peasant observed a large, metallic object land, and small, human-like beings emerged.
• Croix d'Epinay, France (October 10, 1954): A mechanic saw an egg-shaped object land, and two small beings emerged.
• Germany (October 9, 1954): Cinematographer Heggs reported seeing a bright object land, with short, broad-chested beings emerging.
• France (October 9, 1954): Witnesses saw two small beings crossing a road near a large, orange disc-shaped object.
• Fontaine-Torcy, France (October 18, 1954): Multiple witnesses observed a cigar-shaped object land, and a being resembling a human emerged.
• Quebracoco, Brazil (October 7, 1957): Two witnesses saw a large, oval object land, and seven small, child-sized beings emerged.
• Pampa, Argentina (May 24, 1962): A farmer's wife reported seeing an unknown craft land and beings resembling robots.
• Santa Barbara, Peru (September 12, 1965): Two small beings were observed near a disc-shaped object that then flew away.
• Pichac, Peru (September 20, 1965): A shepherdess reported seeing six beings emerge from an object and communicate in a strange language.

Polish UFO Sightings

The magazine also addresses UFO reports from Poland, noting that while there isn't a central scientific body for UFO research, anecdotal evidence exists. One notable case from Gdynia in 1959 involved a possible crash of an object in the port, followed by reports of a strange, injured being found on the beach.

#### The Gdynia Incident (February 21, 1959)

Reports suggest an object fell into the port of Gdynia. Later, a being with burnt facial features and speaking an unknown language was found. This individual, reportedly wearing a suit made of an unknown metallic material, died after a bracelet was removed from its arm.

#### Atmospheric Phenomena in Poland

• Near Czestochowa: A witness described a purple and then blue glowing object that landed briefly, leaving behind a gelatinous, phosphorescent substance that disappeared over time.
• Lower Silesia (Summer 1958): Hundreds of observers witnessed three glowing, colored spheres arranged in a triangle, which maneuvered for about an hour.
• Warsaw (1942-1943): A bright yellow, round object was observed hovering and then disappearing into the sky.

The Barney and Betty Hill Abduction

A significant section is dedicated to the abduction of Barney and Betty Hill in 1961. During a drive in New Hampshire, they experienced missing time and later, under hypnosis, recounted being taken aboard a UFO.

#### The Star Map

Betty Hill described seeing a detailed, three-dimensional map of stars inside the craft. This map, which she later reconstructed, has been analyzed by astronomers, notably Marjorie Fish, who identified a configuration of stars that closely matches the map, pointing to the Zeta Reticuli system as a potential origin.

#### Hypnotic Regression and Analysis

Dr. Benjamin Simon conducted hypnotic sessions with the Hills, uncovering details of their alleged examination by alien beings. The beings reportedly performed various tests, including one that Betty interpreted as a pregnancy test. The magazine discusses the reliability of hypnotic recall and the possibility of subjective truth versus objective reality.

#### Scientific Scrutiny of the Star Map

Astronomers like Marjorie Fish and Professor Frank Salisbury have noted the remarkable similarity between Betty Hill's map and actual star configurations, particularly around Zeta Reticuli. However, some scientists, like Professor Donald Menzel, argue that such similarities can occur by chance and that other interpretations of star maps are possible.

Theories and Interpretations

The magazine explores several hypotheses regarding UFO phenomena:

1. Observation by Extraterrestrial Beings: Earth is under secret observation by intelligent cosmic entities.
2. Mass Psychological Disorder: Humanity is experiencing a collective mental breakdown due to rapid scientific and technological advancement.
3. Actual Extraterrestrial Visits: Aliens are visiting Earth, but their presence is not as commonly imagined.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, alleged alien encounters, and the investigation of these phenomena. The magazine presents a wide range of anecdotal evidence, from police reports to personal testimonies, and explores both the physical and psychological aspects of these events. While acknowledging skepticism and the need for scientific verification, the overall tone suggests an open-minded approach to the possibility of extraterrestrial visitation and the existence of unexplained aerial phenomena. The emphasis on detailed witness accounts and the analysis of specific cases, such as the Socorro incident and the Barney and Betty Hill abduction, highlights the magazine's commitment to documenting and exploring the UFO mystery.

This issue of "Nova Wiesz" from 1978, translated from Polish and compiled by R. S. Furduy, presents a multifaceted exploration of the UFO phenomenon, scientific skepticism, and the burgeoning field of paranormal claims.

Who is Right?

The article "Who is Right?" addresses the persistent issue of UFO sightings, noting that while reports are frequent, the problem is often dismissed. A 1973 Gallup poll revealed that 15 million Americans believed they had seen flying saucers, yet most remained silent. A 1971 survey of readers of "Industrial Research" magazine, predominantly individuals with higher education, showed that nearly a quarter had personally observed UFOs, but again, these observations were not reported. The author suggests that UFOs are considered unworthy of scientific study, and those who report sightings risk ridicule, leading most observers to remain silent.

Professor Allen Hynek is cited as stating that 30-40% of amateur astronomers have unexplained observations they don't report. The article posits that while scientific interest in UFOs is growing, it often remains confined to private circles. It mentions the "invisible college" of scientists secretly studying UFOs, as described by astrophysicist Jacques Vallee. The author argues that it would be more beneficial for these scientists to publish their findings. The issue is framed as a conflict between a small group of interested scientists and a larger public influenced by sensationalized media reports, leading to a perception of UFOs as a "two-century-old folly."

Stanton Friedman, who believes UFOs are extraterrestrial craft, is contrasted with Dr. Donald Menzel, who dismisses UFO believers as "damned fools." The article concludes that without further rigorous research, the UFO problem cannot be solved, a sentiment echoed by a special committee of 11 representatives from the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics.

There are calls for a global organization, like UNESCO or the UN, to study UFOs. Professor Allen Hynek, in his book "The UFO Experience," advocated for a UN committee to facilitate communication between UFO research groups worldwide, suggesting it would need neither financial nor direct support from the UN but would serve as an effective information exchange center.

The Role of the UN and International Interest

Former UN Secretary-General U Thant showed significant interest in the UFO problem and was inclined to initiate official investigations through the UN. In June 1966, he informed A. Hynek and journalist John Fuller of his interest and mentioned similar interest from other UN member states, suggesting that a UN mission would be possible if initiated by a member state. However, historical accounts indicate that conservative forces prevailed, and UN investigations did not materialize. The article notes that pressure for international research is now reportedly coming from the White House. A December 1977 "New Scientist" article mentioned President Carter's support for UFO research, stemming from his own sighting in 1973.

In November 1977, Grenada's representative to the UN, Wellington Friday, proposed declaring 1978 the "International Year of UFO Study" and establishing a UN agency for flying saucers. This initiative also suggested issuing commemorative stamps and holding the Second International Ufological Congress in Grenada. While the author deems such a broad initiative unlikely, they acknowledge that certain chances exist.

Our Glossary

This section defines key organizations mentioned in the issue:

• National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA): Established by US Congress in 1958, succeeding the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) founded in 1915. NASA was created in response to the Soviet Union's launch of Sputnik in 1957, aiming to organize space research. Its initial staff was around 8,000 with a budget of $100 million, growing significantly by 2004.
• National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena (NICAP): Founded in 1956 by physicist Thomas Townsend Brown. For years, it was led by retired Major Donald Keyhoe, who asserted that "flying saucers" were of extraterrestrial origin and that the government was hiding the truth. NICAP included former CIA officials. The organization disbanded in 1973, with its archives transferred to Hynek's Center for UFO Research (CUFOS).
• National Ufological Center (Centro Ufologico Nazionale, CUN): A major Italian ufological organization founded by Roberto Pinotti, which publishes the journal "Notiziario UFO."

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

NASA was established in 1958, building upon the foundation of the NACA. Its creation was a direct response to the Soviet Union's space achievements. Initially, NACA focused on supersonic aviation, with space exploration being a secondary concern. The successful launch of Sputnik prompted the US government to create a dedicated, well-funded agency for space research. NASA officially began operations on October 1, 1958, with approximately 8,000 employees and a budget under $100 million. By 2004, its budget had grown to about $15.5 billion. At its inception, NASA inherited three major research centers from NACA: Langley Aeronautical Laboratory (Virginia, established 1918), Ames Aeronautical Laboratory (near San Francisco), and Jet Propulsion Laboratory (Cleveland, established 1940-1941). The Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral, Florida, was originally a military rocket range, with space launches commencing in 1959.

In 1958, NASA, in collaboration with the USAF, launched its first space mission, "Pioneer-1," intended to reach the Moon. However, the "Thor" rocket lacked sufficient speed, and the probe burned up in the atmosphere. NASA began manned flights in 1961. As a space-focused organization, NASA could not ignore UFOs. In 1967, a NASA specialist noted a shift from viewing UFOs as "devilry" to acknowledging the growing interest from credible individuals, suggesting potential contract research within a year. Cases of UFO sightings by NASA specialists were classified, with instructions to respond quickly to reports of "fragments of spacecraft and unidentified flying objects" without discussing the object's origin with the observer.

By 1978, NASA's official stance, as stated in its information bulletin, was that it did not conduct research into UFOs and was not responsible for studying them. This position of denial has continued. A March 2002 NASA press release reiterated that no US government organization was currently studying or responsible for studying the possibility of extraterrestrial civilizations or UFOs, stating that past independent investigations by the USAF and NASA had found no factual evidence of extraterrestrial life or that UFOs were related to aliens.

National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena (NICAP)

Founded in 1956 by physicist Thomas Townsend Brown, NICAP was led for many years by retired Major Donald Keyhoe, who promoted the idea of alien "flying saucers" and government cover-ups. The organization included many former CIA employees, including former director Roscoe Hillekotter and former psychological warfare chief Joseph J. Brian III. Despite its influence, NICAP disbanded in 1973. Its archives were transferred to Allen Hynek's Center for UFO Research (CUFOS). Donald Keyhoe died in 1988. Recent attempts to revive NICAP have been unsuccessful.

National Ufological Center (CUN)

This is described as one of Italy's largest ufological organizations, founded by UFOlogist Roberto Pinotti. It has published the journal "Notiziario UFO" since 1965.

Science Fiction and UFOs

The relationship between science fiction and UFOs has been debated, with mixed results. Jacques Vallee's work "Anatomy of a Phenomenon" noted that the period of low UFO activity in the 1920s-1930s coincided with a boom in science fiction, cinema, and aviation. Examples include early films about artificial beings and space travel, such as "Homunculus" (1916), "The Golem" (1914, 1920), "The Hands of Orlac" (1924), and "Metropolis" (1926). Karel Čapek coined the word "robot" in 1928. Early films about lunar travel, Frankenstein, and Flash Gordon serials are also mentioned.

The article questions the theory that UFO rumors are created by the population to alleviate psychological tension, arguing that there is no direct correlation between UFO activity peaks and increased interest in science fiction. Bertrand Mee's research into early ufological motifs in science fiction found that while elements of future UFO phenomena were present, they were fragmented and did not form a cohesive image. Specific Russian stories are mentioned as potentially containing early UFO imagery.

A critique of a statement suggesting that UFO sightings began in the mid-20th century due to the end of WWII and the rise of science fiction is presented. The article counters that UFO sightings have been documented throughout history, even before the advent of modern science fiction, citing biblical symbolism in ancient observations. While acknowledging that science fiction might have influenced some witnesses, it is not considered the primary factor.

Criticism and Bibliography

This section provides a rating system for ufological periodicals and books: [+] discard immediately; [++] complete nonsense; [+++] so-so, readable; [++++] good; [+++++] excellent, highly recommended.

• Review and assessment of current ufological periodicals and new books.
• Our rating:
• In this issue: Kirill Butusov. World of Mysteries and Secrets.

Kirill Butusov. World of Mysteries and Secrets

This refers to book 2, "Mysteries of Time and Space" (St. Petersburg, "Nevskaya Zhemchuzhina," 2005, 168 pages, 500 copies). The review notes that this is the second book by astronomer and anomalous phenomena researcher Kirill Pavlovich Butusov. It covers topics beyond UFOs, including spacetime shifts, historical controversies, predictions, the afterlife, spirit communication, transcommunication, and plant mysteries. While acknowledging the inclusion of dubious stories from tabloids and questionable facts, the reviewer states they do not detract from the overall impression. The author is praised for finding a balance between well-crafted content and chaotic presentation.

Announcements

• The sixth issue of "NEXUS" magazine has been released. This issue features articles by prominent ufologists and specialists in anomalous phenomena from Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and abroad. Readers are encouraged to follow news on the magazine's websites.

Miscellaneous

• Psychic Faces Court for the First Time

A unprecedented legal case is taking place in Vladimir, Russia. Sergey Efremov, a tractor factory worker, is suing Vladimir Mironov, a local clairvoyant, healer, and "great magician," for failing to cure his stuttering. Efremov paid 17,680 rubles for 10 sessions, during which Mironov waved his hands over the patient. No cure resulted, and Efremov filed a lawsuit. Mironov failed to appear at the first court hearing.

The chairman of the city's Consumer Protection Committee, Alexander Marisov, described how Mironov, who had only a vocational education in veterinary medicine, advertised on air, diagnosing illnesses and offering general recommendations. This attracted many people who had lost faith in official medicine.

Efremov's experience involved Mironov waving his hands over him for 2-3 minutes during each of the 10 sessions, with significant waiting times. After the sessions, Mironov advised Efremov to buy Himalayan herbs for 840 rubles per packet. The herbs did not help. When Efremov and his mother complained, Mironov became abusive. The family decided to pursue legal action.

The article lists "occult services" offered in Moscow, with prices ranging from 3,000 rubles for removing a curse to 30,000 rubles for treating stage 4 cancer. The article criticizes the exorbitant prices, especially for terminally ill patients, and calls for stricter legal regulation of "sorcerers" and "healers." It suggests that licensing should be subject to commissions including medical professionals, scientists, and reputable organizations, with licenses revoked and criminal charges filed for misconduct.

Conclusion of Publication

The issue concludes with a note that it was completed at 11 PM on December 15, 2005, and compiled by Mikhail Gerstein (St. Petersburg).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent mystery of UFOs, the tension between scientific skepticism and public belief, and the critique of unregulated paranormal practitioners. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious inquiry into UFOs, advocating for rigorous scientific investigation while strongly condemning fraudulent psychics and healers. There is an underlying theme of government secrecy and the need for transparency regarding unexplained phenomena. The magazine also highlights the intersection of science fiction, popular culture, and the public's fascination with the unknown.