UFO Research Australia newsletter vol 2 no 6

Magazine Overview

This issue of the UFO Research Australia newsletter, Volume 2, Number 6, dated November-December 1981, is published bi-monthly and presents the work of UFO researchers. The material presented does not necessarily reflect the views of the magazine. The newsletter is registered by Australia Post with publication number SBQ1224. Annual subscription rates are $10.00 for Australia, $12.00 Aust. for foreign surface mail, and $24.00 Aust. for foreign air mail. Single copies cost $2.00 Aust.

Editorial

The editorial discusses the wide expansion in readership of the UFO Research Australia Newsletter during 1981, attributing it to increased overseas involvement and a broadened overview of UFO activity and research. The exchange of information through UFORAN is highlighted, and contributors are thanked for their participation. For 1982, the newsletter plans to publish articles on the involvement and motives of intelligence organizations in ufology, re-examine major past UFO events with present-day knowledge, and explore previously unexplored research areas. Regular features will continue, keeping readers updated with the latest news. The editorial concludes by thanking contributors and readers for their comments and support during 1981 and extends seasonal wishes for a happy and safe New Year.

Articles and Reports

Possible Close Encounter at Darkey Forest NSW

Source: Paul and Cassandra Sowiak-Rudej (Woolongong).
On August 2, 1981, at 6:30 p.m., a coal miner reported seeing an unusual object pass overhead, estimated to be 200 meters away. The object was described as "coffin" shaped with angular sides and corners, approximately the length of two full hands at arm's length, and the size of "a house in the sky." It had a ring of yellow and white lights going on and off at the top section, a large blue light in the center, and a faint yellow beam sweeping from side to side. The object traveled from north-east to south-west, emitting a faint humming sound, with no observed vehicle or radio interference.

UFO Formation off Bunbury WA

By Jeff Bell (UFORAN Correspondent Western Australia).
On August 26, 1981, three independent witnesses reported a formation of 15 bright objects flying offshore of Bunbury shortly after 4 p.m. The Department of Transport and the RAAF could not explain the sighting, and the Perth Airport verified no groups of aircraft were operating in the area. Mr. John Harvey of Bunbury described the bright silver symmetrical objects as having hovered over the ocean, then moved rapidly north and suddenly shot vertically upwards without changing speed.

Newsclips

This section includes a brief mention of an article in the latest UFO Research Australia newsletter analyzing "Abduction by UFOs" and reports of human/alien sex. It also addresses a journalist's misinterpretation of an article by John Prytz regarding human/alien biological kinship, clarifying that Prytz stated such reports are "impossible unless one believes in human/alien biological kinship."

Unidentified Radar Targets

By Russell Boundy (UFORAN Correspondent Far North Queensland).
On October 17, 1981, an Air Cargo L188 (Electra) aircraft flying from Sydney to Brisbane detected two targets on its radar approximately 40 miles west of its track. These targets were confirmed by Sydney Air Traffic Control (ATC), who also had them displayed on their radar but could not identify them. The two targets maintained a similar position ahead of the aircraft on a parallel track, appearing on both the L188 radar and Sydney ATC radar until the aircraft was in the Newcastle area, where both targets vanished from the aircraft radar screen. The targets were estimated to be some 30 miles from the L188's position when they disappeared. The duration of the incident was approximately 15 minutes, and the L188 crew had no visual contact. The remainder of the flight was uneventful.

Stop Press: On October 25, 1981, a 22-year-old dental nurse reported her car being paced for half an hour by "a huge and very bright oblong light" near Clare, SA. UFO Research South Australia is investigating.

The Palma UFO - a comparison

By Russell Boundy.
This article compares the Palma UFO sighting (April 26, 1980, Palma, Far North Queensland) with the Cocoyoc incident in Mexico (November 3, 1973). The Palma UFO was described as oval with curved "wings" on either side and was observed at night. The Cocoyoc object was described as "inverted pear" shaped, with "tentacle like" extremities used as supports when it landed. The Cocoyoc UFO was observed in daylight and described as "dark-blue-green," while the Palma object was "glowing bright silver" with "three lights." The Cocoyoc incident involved three photographs taken by Mr. and Mrs. Jimenez, which were later examined by the Kodak Company (of Mexico) and pronounced authentic. The article notes that the Palma witness found the Cocoyoc object looked similar but less bright. The author also mentions an article in "Les Extraterrestres" that compares the Cocoyoc photos to another UFO photographed in France by Mr. Froidevaux.

UFO Research Publicity Board

Founded in October 1981 by Vladimir Godic, the UFO Research Publicity Board aims to establish accurate media coverage of UFO events. The Board criticizes journalists who quote "experts" with incomplete knowledge or personal biases. It emphasizes the benefit of consulting scientifically oriented UFO research organizations and experienced researchers for accurate reporting. The Board intends to communicate with journalists who strive for comprehensive reporting and will contact those who inaccurately cover sightings to point out factual errors. The Board has three members: Vladimir Godic (Editor-Publisher UFORAN), Frank Gillespie (scientific advisor ACUFOS), and Michael Hough (UFO Research NSW). Pony Barenson (Assistant Editor UFORAN) serves as secretary. The Board is independent of any UFO Research organization and the Australian Centre for UFO Studies, with its official address being PO Box 229, Prospect, South Australia 5082.

UFO Conference 6

This section is mentioned in the table of contents but no details are provided in the scanned pages.

Classification Systems for UFO Reports

By Keith Basterfield. This article is mentioned in the table of contents but no details are provided in the scanned pages.

Timepiece Interferences and other Bizarre UFO Effects

By Bill Chalker. This article is mentioned in the table of contents but no details are provided in the scanned pages.

Usage of Computer Photographic Evaluation Techniques as Applied to Purported UFO Photographs

By William H. Spaulding and Fred Adrian. This article is mentioned in the table of contents but no details are provided in the scanned pages.

Some Suggestive Examples of Prehistoric Interactions between the Aborigines of Australia and Extraterrestrial Intelligences (ETI)

By John Prytz. This article is mentioned in the table of contents but no details are provided in the scanned pages.

Reference Library

This section is mentioned in the table of contents but no details are provided in the scanned pages.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the reporting and analysis of UFO sightings, including close encounters, aerial formations, and radar anomalies. There is a strong emphasis on the importance of accurate reporting and the role of UFO research organizations in providing factual information to the media and the public. The establishment of the UFO Research Publicity Board highlights a proactive stance towards improving the quality and credibility of UFO-related news. The comparison of different UFO cases suggests a methodology for identifying patterns and similarities in sightings. The inclusion of articles on prehistoric interactions indicates a broader scope of inquiry into the potential historical presence of extraterrestrial intelligence.

This issue of the magazine, titled 'UFO CONFERENCE 6', focuses on the proceedings of the sixth UFO Conference and delves into various aspects of UFO research, including classification systems and photographic analysis.

UFO Conference 6

The sixth UFO Conference, advertised in the previous edition of UFORAN, took place in Adelaide, South Australia, from October 10-12. The conference was described as a great success, with papers presented in new and established fields of research. Many administrative and research topics were discussed with the aim of coordinating practical and theoretical research activities. Unfortunately, due to illness and unforeseen circumstances, several delegates were unable to attend. The next conference, UFO Conference 7, was planned for early 1983 in Tasmania. Proceedings of the conference were available for purchase at a cost of $ Aus. 15, including postage and packaging, from The Australian Centre for UFO Studies.

Classification Systems for UFO Reports

Authored by Keith Basterfield, this section explores different systems for categorizing UFO reports. It begins by detailing Jacques Vallee's 1966 classification system from his book 'Challenge to Science', which divides sightings into four main categories: Type 1 (objects on or near the ground with possible traces), Type 2 (objects with vertical cylindrical formation in the sky, with sub-types for erratic movement or stationary presence), Type 3 (spherical, discoidal, or elliptical objects stationary in the sky, with sub-types for descent to the ground), and Type 4 (objects moving continuously through the air).

Vallee's system was superseded by Professor J. Allen Hynek's system in 1972, described in his book 'The UFO Experience'. Hynek's approach breaks reports into two main types: Distant objects and Close objects. Distant sightings are subdivided into (1) Nocturnal lights, (2) Daylight discs, and (3) Radar-visual. Close range events are categorized as (1) Close encounters of the first kind (UFO seen at close range), (2) Close encounters of the second kind (close range UFOs with physical effects noted), and (3) Close encounters of the third kind (occupants seen in conjunction with close range UFOs).

The article notes that Hynek's system has been widely accepted, partly due to the popular movie 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind'. It also mentions an updated Hynek-style system suggested by Jenny Randles and Peter Warrington in their book 'UFOs a British Viewpoint' in 1979, which includes definitions for 'Low definition', 'Medium definition', 'Instrumentally detected', and 'Close encounters of the fourth kind' (encounters with psychic effects, abduction claims, time lapses, etc.). The author concludes that classifying UFO reports is difficult, but the Hynek system remains the most commonly used.

Publications available from The Australian Centre for UFO Studies are also listed, including details of 560 Australian UFO events and a new 28-page document titled 'A Catalogue of the More Interesting Australian Close Encounters' for $ AUST. 4.

Timepiece Interferences and Other Bizarre UFO Effects

Written by Bill Chalker, this article investigates unusual effects associated with UFO sightings, particularly focusing on timepiece interferences. It begins by detailing the extraordinary experience of Deputy Val Johnson near Warren, Minnesota, USA, on August 27, 1979. His police car sustained damage, and his Timex mechanical wristwatch was delayed by fourteen minutes, matching the delay of the car clock. The event was described as a 'UFO Collision', during which Johnson was reportedly unconscious for 38 minutes. Aerial infra-red photography revealed a strong chlorophyll-a reflectance content coincident with the UFO's path. The article also mentions a series of similar reports of balls of light attacking automobiles in the US.

A remarkable coincidence is highlighted from the Canadian Fortean newsletter 'Res Bureaux Bulletin', noting three separate events within ten days that described unusual effects on timepieces. These occurred in Warren, Minnesota (USA), near Ottawa (Canada), and near Queenstown, Tasmania (Australia).

The Canadian incident involved a pilot and passenger in a Cherokee Warrior aircraft near Ottawa on August 18, 1979. Their aircraft's wings began to glow red, the airspeed indicator dropped to zero, and controls became jammed. They observed a large aerial object, described as a 'rolling energy ball', estimated at 300 feet in diameter. The aircraft's instruments went haywire, but after the UFO departed, they returned to normal. The pilot's springwound Timex wristwatch had stopped, along with the aircraft clock, for several minutes, while the passenger's electric Timex continued to function.

The Tasmanian incident, reported by the Tasmanian UFO Investigation Centre, occurred on August 20, 1979, near Hatfield River. A woman driving experienced her car interior being illuminated by a greenish light, the car slowing to a constant speed despite gear changes, and her dashboard clock and mechanical wristwatch stopping. The car clock restarted with an eight-minute discrepancy, and the wristwatch had not started again, showing a forty-minute discrepancy later. The article notes that the engine kept running even with the throttle left open.

The author points out that a single mechanism cannot adequately explain these clockstopping events. While a crippling magnetic field was suggested for the Warren case, it was not confirmed. The selectivity of effects on timepieces and vehicles in all three cases prevents a satisfactory explanation, suggesting either different phenomena were involved or the phenomena are selective in their interaction with the environment. The article concludes that further analysis and more data are needed.

Usage of Computer Photographic Evaluation Techniques

This section, authored by William H. Spaulding and Fred Adrian, details the application of computer image processing techniques to analyze purported UFO photographs. The methodology involves digitizing the pictorial data using a scanner that measures image density. This data is then processed by a computer, simulating human visual recognition. The primary end-products are enhanced reconstructions of the original image or numeric/graphic reports with specific information.

The article explains that digitized images are stored as pixels, forming a grid. Various software programs can then extract information. Key techniques discussed include:

• Edge Enhancement: This operation delineates edges of images to make shapes and details more conspicuous. It works by shifting the original picture and testing for differences between pixels.
• Spatial Filtering: This technique separates a picture into high-frequency and low-frequency components. Low-pass filtering removes interfering lines, while high-pass filtering enhances details by removing low-frequency changes like vignetting.
• Contrast Expansion/Suppression (E/S): This process adjusts the brightness differences in a photograph to make low-contrast images more readable or to bring out details that appear 'washed out'. It involves subtracting a value from dark areas and multiplying brighter areas to stretch the grey scale.
• Pixel Digitization: This is a derivative of the Gradient sub-routine that portrays image edges in white outlines against a black background, calculating the difference between adjacent pixels to represent changes in grey levels.
• Hi-Resolution (Laplacian): This function provides a natural-appearing edge image and enhances pictorial features for greater detail.

The article lists advantages of the system, noting that close to a thousand purported UFO photographs have been analyzed. The system can determine details such as the time of day, proximity of the UO to the camera, angular motion/direction, whether the image is reflecting light or producing its own, identify supportive structures, detect alterations like montages, and identify natural phenomena or photographic anomalies. For nocturnal lights, the analysis is more challenging due to the poor quality of many photographs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the documentation and analysis of UFO phenomena. The magazine appears to adopt a serious, research-oriented stance, presenting detailed accounts of conferences, scientific classification systems, and technical methods for analyzing evidence. There is a clear emphasis on collecting and scrutinizing data, as evidenced by the publications available from the Australian Centre for UFO Studies and the detailed explanation of computer image processing techniques. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, presenting various theories and findings while acknowledging the difficulties and need for further research in the field.

This issue of the magazine, identified by its page number '19' and the copyright notice for 'Ground Saucer Watch Inc.', focuses on two main themes: the application of computer photographic evaluation techniques for analyzing Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) images and the exploration of prehistoric interactions between Australian Aborigines and potential extraterrestrial intelligences (ETI).

Usage of Computer Photographic Evaluation Techniques

The article "USAGE OF COMPUTER PHOTOGRAPHIC EVALUATION TECHNIQUES" details how computer analysis can be applied to nocturnal UAP photographs, which often appear as indistinct lights against dark backgrounds. Techniques discussed include:

• Micro and digital densitometry: To determine the light saturation of the UAP image.
• Pseudo-coloring (density slicing): To map the distribution of light across the UAP.
• Dark density scanning: Using special computer programs to analyze areas of the photograph that appear devoid of imagery to the naked eye, capable of reading film emulsions as dark as 4.0 H&D Standard. This can help identify light spill-over from conventional aircraft or detect hoaxes, such as someone holding a flashlight.

However, the article stresses the Limitations to the System. It acknowledges that while computer enhancement has increased the analysis of UAP photographs and helped identify hoaxes, its effectiveness is entirely dependent on the quality of the original photograph. Overly-cropped or low-resolution images cannot be effectively interpreted. Computer enhancement is described as state-of-the-art technology, not magic, and requires good quality photographs for optimal results. Specific limitations include the inability to determine the exact manufacture or material of an object, the precise distance from the camera in nocturnal photos without reference points, and distinguishing 'real' imagery from sophisticated special-effects.

The section "FUNDAMENTALS - THINGS TO LOOK FOR IN UO PHOTOGRAPHS" provides guidance for researchers. It states that a bright spot on a dark background at night is not proof of a UAP and could be an aircraft landing light, flashlight, or a true unknown, advising against wasting time on such cases. Crucially, it emphasizes that scientific analysis is impossible without complete camera/lens/film parameters. Sequential photographs must be verified for proper order, and original or first-generation copies are preferred over reprints or matte-finish pictures. The article also notes that GSW Inc. offers this service to qualified MUFON field investigators free of charge, with a $25.00 fee for others.

Prehistoric Interactions Between Aborigines and Extraterrestrials (ETI)

This extensive section, authored by John Prytz, explores the possibility of interactions between prehistoric Australian Aborigines and ETI, drawing from Aboriginal myths, legends, and archaeological findings. The author posits Australia as a logical place to investigate such contact due to several factors:

• A relatively short time elapsed since Australia's native population was influenced by advanced terrestrial populations.
• The long presence of the Australian Aboriginal on the continent (tens of thousands of years).
• Apparent isolation from other aboriginal civilizations for thousands of years.
• A strong, largely unpolluted social, cultural, and biological link between modern Aborigines and their ancestors.
• The Australian environment's favorability for preserving anthropological and archaeological remains.

The article highlights that many European Australians lack knowledge and appreciation of the native Australian, suggesting elementary overviews are mandatory. It defends the intellectual capacity and cultural accuracy of the Aborigines, citing T.G.H. Strehlow's work that reveals their human and emotional appeal and the accuracy of their oral traditions and rock carvings. Examples include rock carvings depicting the extinct Tasmanian tiger with remarkable accuracy.

The discussion is categorized into five broad areas:

1. Origins: While the most accepted evidence suggests the first humans arrived from Southeast Asia at least 40,000 years ago, the article notes that Aboriginal populations are genetically distinct from other major groups, suggesting a unique origin.
2. Remains: The discovery of 40 skeletons in northern Victoria, dating between 10,000 and 20,000 years old, are noted to resemble 'Java Man' (Homo erectus) skulls from at least 150,000 years ago, suggesting Homo erectus may have lived in Australia as recently as 10,000 years ago, potentially alongside modern humans for tens of thousands of years.
3. Isolation: The article argues that Australian Aborigines were physically and culturally isolated from the rest of the world for over 10,000 years, making apparent cross-cultural similarities intriguing.
4. Art Works: Aboriginal rock carvings and paintings are presented as evidence. Examples include:
* Rock carvings in North Queensland resembling Egyptian hieroglyphics, supporting Rex Gillroy's theory of ancient Egyptian visitation.
* Stylistic similarities between Aboriginal art and that of the first Americans, noted by Chicka Dixon.
* Remarkable face engravings in the Cleland Hills, described as 'almost unbelievable' and unlike any other ancient Australian art, with some featuring heart-shaped faces, crater-like eyes, and hooked noses. These are often described by Aborigines as non-human in origin, belonging to the 'Dreaming'.
* Other findings include geometric designs, totemic symbols, and small human figures with large headdresses.
* A unique 'two-foot-long engraved cross' found by Walpitjiri, resembling an ancient European sword.
5. Oral Traditions (Myths and Legends): The article emphasizes the depth and accuracy of Aboriginal myths, which can date back 60,000 years. It cites Roland Robinson's work on the 'Doolagarl' or 'Hairy Man' myth, which aligns with the discovery of Java Man fossils. The author suggests that Aboriginal myths accurately describe ancient geological periods, such as the Permian period.

The Simpson Desert Stone Maze: Discovered by Bob and Joan Rowlands, this massive arrangement of eight separate patterns spread over 400 hectares is described. While refuting theories of it being an 'Australian Stonehenge' or a site for spacemen, the Rowlands suggest it might be an ancient Aboriginal map of the Simpson Desert or used for ceremonial purposes. However, funding for further study has been denied due to its perceived lack of significance to living Aborigines.

Cross-Cultural Tid-bits: The article presents several intriguing parallels:

• Aboriginal rock carvings resembling Egyptian hieroglyphics.
• Stylistic similarities between Aboriginal art and that of the first Americans.
• Geometric designs in Aboriginal art similar to those found in early Pueblo Indian pottery and Navajo rugs.
• The 'Doolagarl' myth aligning with 'Java Man' fossil discoveries.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of unexplained phenomena, advanced technology (in the form of computer analysis), and ancient mysteries. There is a clear stance that phenomena, whether UAP or ancient human history, require rigorous analysis, but also an openness to unconventional theories, particularly those involving extraterrestrial influence. The editorial approach seems to favor presenting evidence and theories that challenge conventional scientific or historical narratives, encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond mainstream understanding. The emphasis on the accuracy and depth of Aboriginal oral traditions and art suggests a respect for indigenous knowledge as a valid source of historical and anthropological information, even when it points to extraordinary origins or events.

This issue of "PREHISTORIC INTERACTIONS BETWEEN ABORIGINES AND EXTRATERRESTRIALS" explores the fascinating intersection of ancient Australian Aboriginal culture and the possibility of extraterrestrial contact. It delves into oral traditions, mythology, and physical evidence such as rock art, suggesting that these elements might hold clues to prehistoric encounters with non-human intelligence.

Aboriginal Mythology and Lore

The issue highlights the rich and complex mythology of the Aborigines, passed down through generations. It mentions "My Dusky Friends," a collection of stories by Ethel Hassell (written in 1878), which aims to preserve these myths even as Europeanization impacts the people. Specific figures from Aboriginal lore are discussed, including Kadaija, a mischievous spirit man with no mouth, and the Kadaitcha or "red ochre" Man. The Kadaitcha Man is depicted as a powerful, semi-sacred figure who acts as a judge, jury, and executioner, capable of killing and reviving victims, and using a modified .22 rifle in modern times. Special Kadaitcha boots that leave no tracks are also mentioned, though their veracity is under some doubt. The custom is noted as still being practiced in some parts, even within the current generation.

Evidence of Prehistoric Encounters

The article presents intriguing possibilities for interpreting Aboriginal traditions and artifacts through the lens of "Ancient Astronaut" theories. It references a conversation recorded by Hassell where Aboriginal girls understood the earth to be round, similar to a ball of cotton, contrasting with a box-like shape. More direct, though debated, evidence is presented in the form of Aboriginal rock engravings. A series of programs by the Leyland brothers, "Off the Beaten Track," featured an episode in 1972 showing engravings depicting figures with breathing apparatus on their heads, resembling astronaut helmets. Experts suggest these engravings are around 10,000 years old and may have been created by Aborigines who witnessed the arrival of extraterrestrial beings.

Book Reviews and Technical Papers

The issue includes several reviews of books related to UFO phenomena. "The Kaikoura UFOs" by Captain Bill Startup and Neil Illingworth is reviewed by Frank Gillespie. Gillespie praises the book's graphic and exciting narrative but notes that for serious ufologists, the promise of "bigger and better things" remains unfulfilled, with the tangible object in Chapter 1 being more significant than subsequent nocturnal lights. He also touches upon the issue of official cover-ups and the tendency for scientific or military minds to rationalize away UFO phenomena.

Another section reviews "Australian Books on UFOs" by Mark Moravec. This includes a review of Bruce Cathie's "Harmonic 33," which proposes a world-wide energy grid utilized by UFOs for propulsion and links it to seismic and atomic events. Cathie's work is noted as being criticized for "playing with numbers." D.A.J. Seargent's "UFOs: A Scientific Enigma" is highly recommended for its examination of UFO history, classification, statistical patterns, and the psychological and sociological aspects of contacteeism.

Furthermore, the issue lists "Documents and Technical Papers Available from Ground Saucer Watch, Inc. U.S.A." These documents, obtained through legal action and the Freedom of Information Act, include CIA lawsuit documents, an expose on the Travis Walton abduction, a study of unidentified targets observed on air traffic control radars, and a critique of Project Blue Book. These are presented as important resources for understanding the history of the UFO phenomenon.

Linguistics and Extraterrestrial Communication

An interesting aside discusses the potential role of linguistics in communicating with extraterrestrials. Professor Bob Dixon, a pioneer in Australian Aboriginal languages, is quoted stating that communication with extra-terrestrial races is one of the most exciting problems for linguistics experts. He suggests that if extraterrestrials wished to communicate, linguistic experts would lead Earth's diplomatic team. The article concludes that research into Aboriginal languages, though in its infancy, could yield valuable insights for contact and communication with ETI.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the potential for prehistoric extraterrestrial contact with Australian Aborigines, the interpretation of ancient myths and artifacts, and the ongoing investigation into UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be open to exploring these possibilities, presenting various theories and evidence, while also acknowledging the need for critical evaluation and the speculative nature of some of the material. The inclusion of book reviews and technical paper listings suggests an aim to provide readers with resources for further research and to engage with the broader UFO community.