UFO Newsclipping Service - 1986 08 - no 205

Magazine Overview

This issue of the U.F.O. NEWSCLIPPING SERVICE, dated August 1986, presents a collection of articles and reports detailing UFO sightings and related phenomena from various locations. The cover headline, "UFO... or Mars? Pulsating red light tails travelers," immediately sets the tone for the content, which explores both the mysterious and the potentially explainable aspects of aerial phenomena.

Hesperia Couple Reports Early Morning UFO Show

This article from the Victor Valley Daily Press (June 8, 1986) recounts the experience of Mel and Fonda Hardman of Hesperia, California, who reported seeing an X-shaped UFO. Mel described it as having a "grayish framework" within an "oval-shaped white glow," resembling a "soft-light" lightbulb. He emphasized that it was not an airplane or weather balloon, noting its lack of sound and its "wobbling or quivering motion." The object reportedly moved with remarkable speed. Officials from George Air Force Base and the California Highway Patrol stated they had no related reports.

Where Are UFOs?

This piece from NEWS, McKeesport, PA (May 28, 1986), reflects on the perceived decrease in UFO news compared to the 1950s and '60s. It questions whether UFOs are less frequent or simply being seen less. The article references the late astrophysicist J. Allen Hynek, advocating for a rigorous scientific method in analyzing UFO reports rather than dismissing them outright. It suggests that trained minds should be asking pertinent questions about the phenomenon.

UFO... or Mars? Pulsating Red Light Tails Travelers

This report from the DAILY NEWS, Tempe, AZ (July 11, 1986), details an incident where a family in western Arizona reported a pulsating red light following their car. While the UFO Reporting Center in Seattle agreed it was real, Carl Posey of Kitt Peak Observatory suggested it was likely the planet Mars, citing its visibility and setting time. A Department of Public Safety officer also witnessed the light, describing it as "about twice as bright and twice as big as a star." Officials at Nellis Air Force Base reported no relevant activities. Robert Gribble of the UFO Reporting Center noted that about 10 percent of sightings remain unexplained.

UFO Group Signs with Tucson Firm

This article from the DAILY TERRITORIAL, Tucson, AZ (July 23, 1986), announces that the Foundation for UFO Research has signed a management services contract with Association Managers Inc. (AMI). The foundation aims to support UFO research and raise money for investigators, addressing the perennial problem of funding in the field. Allen Benz, president of the foundation, stated their premise is that "something serious is going on that needs to be studied."

Officials Doubt UFO Sighting

From the MOHAVE DAILY MINER, Kingman, AZ (July 10, 1986), this report discusses authorities' skepticism regarding a light spotted over U.S. 93 near Wikieup. Lt. John Tibbetts of the state Department of Public Safety noted that while a Nevada family and a highway patrolwoman saw the light, officials doubt it was a UFO. Air Force authorities at Nellis Air Force Base had no information on the sighting.

GV Family Reports UFO Sighting

This article from UNION, Grass Valley, CA (June 20, 1986), describes a sighting by the Jerry Short family. They reported seeing a brightly lit UFO hovering outside their bedroom window, described as triangular with colored lights and making "hovering noises." The object reportedly lasted for nearly five minutes before moving south. The family contacted local police and air force bases, but received no immediate explanations.

The UFOs Are Back, Just in the Nick of Time

Written by John Keasler for NEWS, Miami, FL (May 24, 1986), this opinion piece expresses the author's long-standing belief in UFOs and his excitement over a recent sighting reported in Brazil. Keasler, a UFO believer for 40 years, argues that UFOs add zest to life and that people who look for them have more fun. He recounts his experiences interviewing UFO witnesses and his personal belief that they are sincere.

Tennesseans Say UFO Sighted

This AP report from CELINA, Tenn. (July 13, 1986), details sightings of an unidentified object over a local softball game and other appearances. Witnesses described a loud, deafening noise and an object with an octagonal shape and lights. The Clay County Sheriff's Department confirmed numerous calls about sightings.

Scientists Dominating UFO Convention Dispel 'Kook' Image

By J. Antonio Huneeus, TRIBUNE, New York, NY (July 31, 1986), this article discusses the 1986 Symposium of the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON), highlighting that most speakers were scientists. It covers presentations on photographic analysis, abductions, and SETI, while also criticizing how science has distorted UFO phenomena. Dr. Bruce Maccabee discussed "science at default" and the difficulties of publishing UFO data. The article also mentions presentations on the Kenneth Arnold sighting and the Kaikoura coast UFO film.

Way We Were: It's a bird! It's a plane! No, it's a flying saucer!

This piece from the TRIBUNE ("Sunday"), Chicago, IL (June 22, 1986), revisits the 1947 Kenneth Arnold sighting that popularized the term "flying saucer." It recounts Arnold's description of nine "silvery and shiny" objects and the subsequent media frenzy. The article notes that while many sightings were explained, some remained unexplained, and mentions the hoax involving a "metal disk" found in Arlington Heights.

Worley's 'Failures' Alienated Him from Old Beliefs

Written by Janet C. Wetzel for the ENQUIRER, Cincinnati, OH (June 24, 1986), this article profiles Don Worley, who initially scoffed at UFO and Big Foot reports but became a believer after his research. Worley, who has investigated 85 UFO cases and five Big Foot reports, believes that "aliens have landed, they've abducted people, they've followed cars, and they can fly in and out of water." He suggests that UFOs are "transitory, can appear and disappear instantly, and they're beyond comprehension of our idea of physics."

Roger's UFO Tumbles Over Torbay

This HERALD EXPRESS, Torquay, Devon, England (July 20, 1986) report details a sighting by Roger Tibenham and Pam Pook. Tibenham described a "clearly defined circular shape with bright lights around the circumference" that was "tumbling over and over" and moved rapidly. He initially didn't believe in flying saucers but now does. The object reportedly moved from Chelston to St Marychurch in about 10 seconds.

Owls That Glow in the Dark... There's a Perfectly Natural Explanation!

This article from TIMES, Stockport, England (July 4, 1986), features UFO expert Jenny Randles, who states that one-tenth of reported flying objects are unexplained, but most have natural explanations or are aircraft. Randles explains phenomena like glowing owls, ball lightning, and earthquake lights as potential sources of misidentification. She also notes that aircraft lights and condensation trails are often mistaken for UFOs. The article also mentions a schoolboy's close encounter in Hazel Grove and a sighting of a silver sphere near Heaton Norris.

UFO watchers flying high on mystery in the skies

This article from WEEKEND HERALD, [City Unknown], Australia (July 5-6, 1986), profiles Mrs. Judith Magee, president of the Victorian UFO Research Society. Magee, who joined the air force and worked for an airline, became interested in flying objects. The society, funded by subscriptions, works with the air force to record UFO activity. Magee recounts her own sighting in 1962 of a "large and dazzling light" that looked like Saturn with a ring. She also discusses the Frederick Valentich disappearance, believing he was kidnapped by a UFO.

Mysterious Light in Night Sky

This ARKANSAS GAZETTE, Little Rock, AR (August 14, 1986) report describes a mysterious light show that sparked debate. Residents east of Lexington reported a bright flash and shaking houses, while Little Rock residents also saw a bright light. Astronomers suggested it might be related to the Perseid meteor shower, but others noted its duration. Officials at Cape Canaveral, NORAD, and NASA confirmed no launches.

Eerie Lights Bring Calls

This DAILY NEWS, New York, NY (July 12, 1986) article covers reports of bright lights seen over the Bronx and Queens. While many people thought they were UFOs, authorities and the J. Allen Hynek Center for UFO Studies suggested they were likely airplanes flown in formations by local pilots.

Dazzling Light Show Puzzles Astronomers

This USA TODAY, Arlington, VA (August 14, 1986) report describes a spectacular light show east of the Mississippi that baffled astronomers. While some suggested the Perseid meteor shower, others offered theories like "space trash" or satellite fuel. Brenda Newton of Rochester, NY, described it as "scary" but "pretty; all white."

Living: Canvasing the Stars

By Nancy Perdue, LIGHT, San Antonio, TX (August 8, 1986), this article features Mike Abrego, an artist who paints UFOs based on his own sighting 16 years prior. Abrego, who joined MUFON, believes millions have seen UFOs and that they may have influenced his mind. His wife confirmed hearing a "rumble" accompanying his sighting. Abrego's paintings are inspired by magazine and newspaper articles.

Riddle Solved: But Policeman Snaps Another

This TRIBUNE-REVIEW, Greensburg, PA (July 28, 1986) article, featuring an interview with Stan Gordon of the Pennsylvania Association for the Study of the Unexplained (PASU), discusses various phenomena. Gordon explains that PASU is a clearinghouse for strange reports. He notes that about 90% of reports are explainable, but some, like the Stockport sky fire (identified as a Russian spaceship re-entering the atmosphere), remain mysterious. The article also touches on sightings of mountain lions and other unusual animal sightings.

Lights in the Sky

This MIDHURST & PETWORTH OBSERVER, Sussex, England (July 3, 1986) report details a sighting by Mr. and Mrs. Bishop of three bright points of light hovering low in the sky, ruling out fireworks. They observed the lights for about five minutes before a plane passed overhead, after which the lights moved away.

UFO Activity in Utah

By Cherie Huber, CATALYST, Salt Lake City, UT (Summer 1986), this article explores UFO sightings in Utah. It recounts two cases: one of a couple who experienced a two-hour time loss while driving, feeling they were abducted, and another involving Pat Roach and her children who reported seeing "spacemen." The article highlights Mildred Biesele, Utah's MUFON director, and her serious, scientific approach to collecting and evaluating UFO reports. It mentions the Uintah Basin as a frequent sighting area and notes the role of the Freedom of Information Act in providing more data.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout this issue revolve around the persistent mystery of UFOs, the challenges of scientific investigation, the role of eyewitness testimony, and the potential for misidentification of natural phenomena or conventional aircraft. There's a clear emphasis on distinguishing between credible reports and hoaxes or explainable events. Organizations like MUFON are presented as serious entities dedicated to scientific inquiry, contrasting with the sensationalized or dismissive attitudes sometimes found in mainstream media or among the general public. The editorial stance, as reflected in the articles, is one of open-minded investigation, urging readers to consider the possibility of unexplained phenomena while maintaining a critical and analytical perspective. The publication aims to inform and educate its readers about UFOs, encouraging them to report sightings and to engage with the subject matter seriously.

This issue of the Brighton Evening Argus, dated July 10, 1986, alongside reports from other publications like the Bournemouth Evening Echo, Express, and various international newspapers, delves into a diverse range of topics including UFO sightings, mysterious crop circles, scientific illiteracy, and ongoing debates in paleontology and energy research.

Making Tracks for John's Field of Corn (Brighton Evening Argus, July 10, 1986)

The lead story on the cover of the Brighton Evening Argus revisits the mystery of crop circles that appeared two years prior at Rathfinny Farm near Alfriston, Sussex. Farmer John Mossop dismisses UFO theories, favoring a more natural explanation, while weather expert Mr. Ken Woodhams doubts mini-whirlwinds are the cause. The article notes that the rings coincide with tractor wheel tracks, suggesting a possible prank.

Couple Saw UFO (Bournemouth Evening Echo, July 9, 1986)

This report details a sighting by a Bournemouth coach driver, Peter Charman, of a strange flaring light in the sky on June 17. Other witnesses from Winton and Blandford confirmed similar sightings, with one couple observing the UFO from their garden for about an hour. Mr. Charman remains mystified about the light's origins.

Experts Puzzled by UFO Reports (Express, July 24, 1986)

This article from Express highlights that experts are baffled by numerous sightings of cigar-shaped UFOs and pulsating lights across Derbyshire. Reports include mysterious lights at Sinfin and over a dozen other sightings. One account describes a bright white light shooting from a potential spaceship. Denis Harriman, regional co-ordinator for the National UFO Investigation Society, notes reports of objects traveling slowly with red lights at the front and white beams at the back, estimated to be 100-500 feet long. Some objects resemble stars until seen up close, with one metallic craft seen hovering over trees. A bright orange light was also reported flying from Melbourne to Windley. The Derby Astronomical Society suggests Venus might account for some brightness, while Derbyshire Police confirmed receiving reports but offered no explanation.

Ringing the Changes (Friday People, July 18, 1986)

This piece discusses the ongoing investigation into crop circles by Jenny Randles of the British UFO Research Association. Randles leans towards 'unidentified atmospheric phenomena' rather than UFOs, finding no convincing evidence for the latter. She co-authored a report examining various theories, including hoaxes and natural phenomena. Randles favors a theory by meteorologist Dr. Terence Meadon about 'fair-weather stationary whirlwinds.' The article mentions a peculiar greenish-white jelly-like substance found in a ring in a previous year, analyzed as confectionery.

Flying Circles Around Saucers (The Guardian, July 12, 1986)

This article previews the British UFO Research Association's investigation into crop circles, which have appeared for six years in the West Country and Home Counties. The author speculates that mini-whirlwinds might be the cause. The article notes a new crop circle in the Winchester area, measuring 68ft across.

Fiery 'UFO' Seen (North Devon Journal, July 24, 1986)

Mr. James Quemby reported seeing a fiery 'UFO' over Combe Martin on five occasions, describing it as an orange disc-like object, the color of an oil lamp, that stayed stationary for about an hour. His daughter, grandchildren, and neighbors also witnessed the object.

Translations of UFO Incidents

This section provides translated reports of UFO incidents from various South American countries:

• Cordoba, Argentina (March 12, 1986): Four UFOs landed, described as enormous saucers with intense red and white lights. Witnesses observed the phenomenon, which was transmitted live by a local radio station.
• Talara, Peru (March 13, 1986): A UFO with red, green, and yellow lights flew at low altitude over a football stadium, witnessed by 200 people.
• Corrientes province, Argentina (March 21, 1986): Farmers claimed to have 'talked' with two occupants of a landed 'flying saucer,' described as small, black-clad beings. Traces of burned grass and an eel were found at the site.
• Buenos Aires, Argentina (March 28, 1986): A saucer-shaped UFO with multicolored flashes was observed for two hours over the capital.
• Azapa Valley, Chile (March 30, 1986): Witnesses reported a luminous, cigar-shaped object that remained motionless before disappearing at high speed. A large, coffee-colored stain with oil and charcoal was found at the location.
• Cajon del Maipo, Chile (April 12, 1986): A bright, elongated UFO was seen falling towards the hills, emitting a white light and leaving a white trail. Speculation included it being a meteorite or part of Halley's comet.
• Ceara, Brazil (May 21, 1986): Numerous reports of a cigar-shaped object, possibly a 'mothership,' were received, with some pilots detecting it on radar.

'Tourists' Visit the Place Where the Craft Landed (Morning News, Dallas, TX, April 3, 1986)

A group of Arica experts planned to examine remains found at the Azapa Valley UFO landing site, including an oil stain and charcoal. The 'Scorpion' group, studying UFO phenomena for two years, considers the presence of UFOs a verified reality.

The Big Object Has Allegedly Fallen in Cajon del Maipo - Bright UFO Seen in Santiago's Skies (LA TERCERA DE LA HORA, April 13, 1986)

A bright UFO was seen by hundreds of Santiago residents, described as big and elongated, emitting a bright light. It was seen falling towards the hills of the 'Lagunillas' ski slope. A police patrol searched the area without success. Tourists and mountaineers also witnessed the object, which left a white trail and was lost near the Black Lagoon.

It Belongs to a Fire Ball That Fell in Cajon del Maipo - Meteorite Appeared in an Uncultivated Place in Santiago (LA TERCERA DE LA HORA, April 14, 1986)

Fragments of what might be a meteorite were found in an uncultivated area near Santiago. The object was seen falling at great speed, and the fragments were still hot when found. Scientists from the University of Concepcion suggested it could be part of Halley's comet, an asteroid, or even a UFO.

Scientist from Concepcion University, Listz Avila, Claims: The Meteorite That Fell in Cajon del Maipo Could Be a Part of 'Halley' (LA TERCERA DE LA HORA, April 15, 1986)

Professor Listz Avila Campos proposed that the 'fire ball' that fell in Cajon del Maipo could be fragments from Halley's comet's tail. He also acknowledged the possibility of it being from an asteroid or a UFO. The article also mentions other astronomical events like a moon eclipse and Mars' closest approach to Earth.

Our Scientific Communication Progress Is Out of This World (NEWS-DEMOCRAT, June 17, 1986)

This article discusses advances in science that could improve communication with extraterrestrial intelligence. Robert Jastrow predicts a message from aliens within 20 years, based on Earth's continuous broadcasting of television signals. Jill Tarter of the University of California at Berkeley is working on a NASA project to develop equipment to detect artificial signals. The article also touches on potential reasons for the 'great silence,' including cultural clashes or lack of sophistication in alien life forms.

Bigfoot Leaves Imprint on Small Ohio Town (DISPATCH, May 14, 1986)

This piece focuses on Don Keating and the Eastern Ohio Bigfoot Investigation Center. Keating describes Bigfoot as a large, hairy primate that walks upright. He claims to have had multiple sightings and collected plaster casts of footprints. The town of Newcomerstown seems to regard the Bigfoot phenomenon with mild curiosity and bemusement.

Troubled Tracks: Dispute Still Simmers Over Glen Rose Fossil Prints (MORNING NEWS, June 22, 1986)

This article details the ongoing controversy surrounding 'mantracks' found in Glen Rose, Texas. A new study by amateur paleontologist Glen Kuban suggests that elongated footprints, previously claimed as human by creationists, are actually dinosaur tracks made with an unusual gait. This has led to a near retraction from prominent creationist John Morris, though other creationists continue to defend the mantrack claims. The article also mentions the work of other researchers who have debunked mantrack evidence.

America's Scientific Illiterates: Survey Finds Basic Concepts Misunderstood (POST, Washington, DC, June 2, 1986)

A survey for the National Science Foundation reveals that about half of Americans reject evolution, believe UFOs carry visitors, and misunderstand basic scientific terms. The survey highlights widespread scientific illiteracy, particularly among those with less education. It also notes that a significant number of Americans believe in astrology and have changed their behavior based on astrological advice.

Reports say Chinese lake hosts dragon (ARKANSAS DEMOCRAT, August 8, 1986)

This report discusses legends of a 'monster' or 'dragon' in Tianchi, a crater lake in China. While hunters and locals have reported sightings of a gold-colored creature, no proof exists. The lake's harsh environment, frozen for most of the year, raises questions about its habitability for large creatures.

Perpetual problem: Inventor fights to get patent on his energy machine (JOURNAL, Milwaukee, WI, June 1, 1986)

This article covers the case of inventor Joseph W. Newman, who claims to have created a machine that produces more energy than it uses but has been denied a patent by the US Patent and Trademark Office, which deems it a perpetual motion machine. Newman has sought legal and political avenues for his case, facing opposition from the US Commerce Department and Congressman Robert W. Kastenmeier.

'Energy machine' doesn't produce more than it takes in, NBS reports (POST-STANDARD, July 17, 1986)

Following up on the Joseph Newman case, this report states that the National Bureau of Standards concluded that Newman's 'energy machine' does not produce more power than it consumes and does not violate known laws of physics. The NBS tests showed the device's efficiency ranged between 27 and 67 percent.

A Bird? A Plane? No, Ice (POST-STANDARD, July 17, 1986)

This letter to the editor discusses the theory that comets may have delivered water to Earth and suggests that chunks of ice falling from the sky, previously attributed to airplanes, could potentially be from comets. The author references the theory proposed by physicist Louis Frank and his colleagues.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained phenomena, the public's perception of science, and the challenges of scientific investigation and communication. There's a clear interest in UFOs and related mysteries, juxtaposed with concerns about scientific illiteracy and the public's susceptibility to pseudoscience like astrology and creationist claims. The articles collectively highlight a tension between the desire for extraordinary explanations and the scientific community's efforts to provide rational, evidence-based understanding. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these phenomena and the ongoing debates, while also acknowledging the scientific skepticism and the need for rigorous investigation.