UFO Research Australia newsletter vol 4 no 1

Magazine Overview

UFO Research Australia newsletter, Volume 4, No. 1, July-August 1983.

This issue of the UFO Research Australia newsletter is published bi-monthly and presents the work of UFO researchers independently of any specific organization. The material presented does not necessarily reflect the views of the magazine. The cover features a stylized atomic orbit graphic with a silhouette of Australia inside, and the title 'UFO Research Australia newsletter' in large, bold lettering.

Editorial: The Purpose of UFORAN

The editorial clarifies the publication's objective: to present an objective combination of material, including evidence and theories, both for and against the existence of UFOs. Information may come from various sources, including pure science or speculation, but only objective material will be published. The newsletter aims to avoid the extremes of proponents like Erich von Daniken and debunkers like Philip Klass, who are seen as manipulating science to support biased viewpoints. The editorial emphasizes that the extreme pro and con arguments, while popular with the media, make the work of genuine researchers more difficult. However, these extremes also encourage the formation of a middle ground of individuals who objectively evaluate material, and it is their work that is featured. The publication aims to present UFO activity on a global scale, open to all nationalities and individuals or organizations seeking to increase knowledge through methodical research or scientifically based speculation.

Articles and Features

Boyup Brook Revisited

This article by Keith Basterfield is a retrospective investigation into the October 1967 'car stop' event in Boyup Brook, Western Australia. The author examines original source material, including a 23-page transcript of an interview with the witness, Mr. Harris, conducted by Dr. Paul Zeck, a Perth psychiatrist. Mr. Harris, a wool classer, reported that while driving at night, his car suddenly stopped dead, with all electrical systems failing. An object then appeared, and a hollow 'tube of light,' estimated at 60-90cm in diameter, descended towards him. He felt observed but not fearful. The object itself was described as at least 9m in diameter, oval-shaped, and about 30cm off the ground. After about five minutes, the tube of light 'closed off,' and the object departed at high speed. Mr. Harris noted no noise during the event, and the surroundings were dead quiet. After the incident, his watch was found to be five minutes slow. Dr. Zeck considered four explanations: hoax, dream, temporal lobe epilepsy, or a genuine encounter. The article notes discrepancies in the reported date of the event and mentions that other locals had also reported seeing similar objects, though some attributed them to satellites. Mr. Harris's GP stated he had no history of psychiatric disorder.

Tasmanian Landings of 1969

This section by Keith Roberts (TUFOIC) details six low-level UFO cases from Tasmania in 1969, considered a turning point for the Tasmanian UFO Investigation Centre. The cases include:

• Case 1: Southport Lagoon, March 1969: A round, silver, aluminum-like object was observed on a beach. It later glowed orange-red and took off with a slight swish, leaving an orange light on the water. Two years later, two fishermen reported being followed by a yellow cigar-shaped object with a glow.
• Case 2: Kelvedon, May 7, 1969: Two boys spotted an oval object glowing orange with red lights and holes with white lights. It later turned green and moved rapidly over the sea.
• Case 3: Glenorchy, May 22, 1969: A witness reported an elliptically shaped object taking off from his back lawn, leaving a ring of scorched grass and broken tree limbs. Tests for radioactivity proved negative.
• Case 4: Mt Lloyd, May 23, 1969: A family observed a round red light over a road that moved away and returned, remaining stationary.
• Case 5: Clentral Plateau, Winter time: A motorist observed a large dome-shaped object emitting a bright orange glow from the ground, which then rose slowly.
• Case 6: Paddy Island, about Oct. 28: Two scallop boat crews observed a red-orange disc-like object with a dome, dim orange squares, and a bright orange glow. It later changed to a purple color and disappeared at high speed.

UFO Display

This short piece announces the opening of a large UFO display on August 18, 1983, at Sydney Tower Centrepoint Building. The display, titled "UFOs a Worldwide Mystery," features photographs, video, audio, and data from various countries, covering close encounters, definitions, and predictions. It includes UFO photographs, alien replicas, eyewitness recordings, documented case studies, and Air Force/Military reports. A special segment on Australian sightings is included, along with mini-theatre presentations and films. The Australian Centre for UFO Studies is promoted, with thanks to Bill Chalker and Keith Basterfield. Data also comes from Project Blue Book and APRO.

American Astronaut in Australia

This brief note mentions the fortunate meeting with Astronaut Russell "Rusty" Schweickart on September 20, 1983, thanks to Jane Brooks and other enthusiasts. Rusty showed slides and answered questions, described as a deeply thoughtful and enlightened speaker.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout the issue is the detailed investigation and presentation of UFO sightings and potential encounters, with a particular focus on Australian cases. The editorial stance is clearly one of objective reporting and balanced analysis, aiming to present evidence and theories without bias. The publication encourages contributions from researchers and individuals interested in the subject, promoting a methodical and scientifically based approach to understanding UFO phenomena. The issue emphasizes the importance of credible witness testimony and the challenges of investigating such events, while also exploring various conventional and unconventional explanations.

This issue of UFORAN, dated September-October 1981, features a prominent article titled "AN ITALIAN CLOSE ENCOUNTER" by Massimo Greco, detailing a significant UFO sighting in Italy. The magazine also includes articles on UFO explanations, a critique of abduction theories, the Percipient Studies Project, and the development of a NASA space station.

An Italian Close Encounter

The main article recounts the experience of Giorgio Filiputti, a railway man and hobbyist hunter and fisherman, on September 18, 1978, near Melaria, Porto Nogaro, Italy. While fishing in the Corno river, Filiputti heard a strange "buzzing" sound, compared to a helicopter or mowing machine, accompanied by wind disturbances. Initially attributing the sound to nearby industrial machinery, he soon realized it was an unfamiliar machine. Driven by curiosity, he left his fishing spot to investigate.

Filiputti then describes seeing an unusual object, approximately 4 to 5 meters long and 3 to 4 meters high, resting on a muddy plateau about 25 meters away. The object was described as egg-shaped or discoidal, with a dome and three "landing legs" about 1.5 meters high, resembling telescopes. It was made of a yellowish metal that reflected sunlight. He also observed a person, described as an "Asiatic pygmy," about 1.30 meters tall, wearing a close-fitting, silver-like one-piece suit with "smokey-black" footwear. The being's face was suntanned and almond-eyed, with pupils slightly larger than those of some Asiatic people he had seen in documentaries. Filiputti noted the being's movements and its apparent surprise at seeing him.

Filiputti experienced a mix of astonishment and anxiety but remained motionless. The pygmy continued to work on a device at the base of the dome. This device was described as a semicircular or half-moon shape protruding from the dome. The pygmy then disappeared behind the dome, followed by a strong rumble and a high-pitched whistle. The object began to ascend vertically, slowly at first, revealing a hemispherical underside with a grille-like surface. The landing legs retracted, and a bluish blaze, about 60cm long, was seen underneath. The craft then took an oblique position and moved south-west at an incredible speed, eventually appearing as a bright ball. The entire observation lasted six minutes.

After the object departed, Filiputti examined the landing site and found three imprints, each about 50cm in diameter, forming a ring. He estimated the distance between them to be 2-3 meters. There were no traces of heat or chemical alterations. He later encountered another fisherman who was skeptical, even trampling on the traces. However, upon hearing another person describe a similar sighting, the skeptical fisherman exclaimed, "so, it's true!" Due to the fisherman's skepticism, Filiputti did not discuss the encounter further, except with his family, though he later published his experience, which led to ridicule.

A to Z of UFO Explanations

This section, continued from a previous issue, presents various theories for UFO activity. The "Dying Race" theory suggests UFOs are from an extraterrestrial (ET) race seeking a new home. The "Extraterrestrial Theory" posits UFOs are spaceships from other civilizations, with discussions on the probability of such beings existing and the "Cat-Flap Effect" which argues for the high probability of alien contact given the galaxy's age and potential for space travel. The "Future Visitor" theory proposes UFOs are craft carrying humans from the future, appearing as projections through time. "Fletcher's Theory" suggests UFOs are manned by extraterrestrials surveying and mapping Earth.

Will NASA Construct a Space Station?

Written by Jane Brooks, this article discusses the potential for NASA to build a space station. Following President Reagan's speech in July 1982, there were rumors of an announcement regarding a space station, but it was not mentioned. The article highlights that a space station would be NASA's next major mission, succeeding Apollo and the shuttle, and that NASA aims to avoid becoming merely a "trucking company." However, the economic climate is presented as a challenge, with Senator William Proxmire expressing concern that the agency needs the project more than the country. The article also mentions the "Space Operations Centre" (S.O.C.) concept, which was deemed too expensive. A task force led by John Hodge was formed to explore scientific, commercial, and military missions for a space platform, considering needs like astronomy, zero-gravity materials processing, and assembling large antenna clusters. The question of whether the station should be manned is raised, along with the potential for military uses, such as space-based lasers and particle beam weapons, which the author hopes will not be pursued for peaceful purposes.

Percipient Studies Project

Mark Moravec introduces the Percipient Studies Project (PSP), initiated in 1982, which aims to research the human factors in anomalous experiences, focusing on the psychological and social aspects of UFO phenomena. The project seeks to increase understanding of UFOs and human behavior. It plans to involve behavioral scientists and researchers in studying individual percipients, comparing groups of percipients and non-percipients, and conducting other relevant studies. An initial goal is to establish an Australian capability for in-depth psychological and physiological study of UFO percipients, developing standardized testing procedures. Specific issues to be investigated include effective interviewing techniques, relevant psychological tests, medical examination procedures for documenting reactions, distinguishing physically-induced from psychologically-induced reactions, procedures for hypnotic age regression, and factors differentiating percipients from non-percipients.

A UFO Vision? The Mystery of "A Machine to Go Through the Air"

Bill Leet critiques Bill Chalker's treatment of the 1873 Parramatta case. Leet questions Chalker's "Project Blue Book" suppositions and his reliance on authorities like Scott Rogo and Ronald Siegel, who suggest UFO abductions occur due to psychological need or deep hallucinatory experiences that become "objectively real." Leet challenges Chalker's conclusion that the events are psychological rather than physical, arguing that Chalker does not adequately explain away the material, physical, and psychological proof.

"Has the Mystery of the Flying Saucers Been Solved?"

This article by B. Konovalov, a scientific reviewer for "Izvestia," presents a Soviet perspective on UFOs, proposing an atmospheric-phenomena explanation. The article explains that the "flying saucer boom" began in the U.S.A. in 1947 with K. Arnold's sighting. While initial explanations included balloons and aircraft, persistent gossip suggested they were Russian craft. The article notes that about 80% of cases were easily explained, but 20% remained inexplicable. Soviet scientists, including R.S. Monin and G.E. Barenblat, have developed a theory explaining the appearance of mysterious discs as "inner waves" in the atmosphere and oceans. These waves, when breaking, form "blobs" of mixed liquid that can become visible as disc-like formations. Experiments at the Institute of Oceanography supported this theory. The article suggests that when these atmospheric discs accumulate dust particles, they become visible and can be mistaken for flying saucers. The Soviet astronaut G.M. Grechko's observations of twinkling stars setting over the Earth's horizon are cited as confirmation, explained by these discoid atmospheric formations. The article dismisses extraterrestrial explanations as the product of "fanatics" and notes that Grechko's own experiences with foil particles from the spacecraft were used for practical jokes, contributing to the mystique.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to lean towards rational, scientific explanations for UFO phenomena, as evidenced by the Soviet atmospheric theory presented and the critique of purely psychological explanations for UFO sightings. There is a clear interest in distinguishing between physical evidence and subjective experiences. The discussion on the NASA space station reflects a pragmatic view, considering economic feasibility and practical needs over national prestige alone. The inclusion of the Percipient Studies Project highlights a growing interest in the psychological and sociological dimensions of anomalous experiences, suggesting a move towards a more holistic understanding of these events. The overall stance seems to be one of critical inquiry, seeking evidence-based explanations while acknowledging the enduring public fascination with the unexplained.

Title: ABDUCTIONS/CONTACT!
Issue: Vol.3 No.2
Date: November 1980
Publisher: KOR'S KOSMOS
Country: U.S.A.
Language: English
Cover Headline: Who's kidding you?

Article 1: Abductions/Contact! Who's kidding you? by William H. Spaulding

This article critically examines the phenomenon of UFO abductions and contact cases, questioning the validity of claims and the methods used in their investigation. The author, William H. Spaulding, argues that while the existence of UFO phenomena can be accepted, it is premature to focus on the 'pilots' when so little concrete data exists about the basic phenomenon itself.

Spaulding discusses the historical context, noting how contact stories entered UFO literature, often to the disbelief of many researchers. He highlights Donald Keyhoe, former director of NICAP, who is portrayed as a figure who censured abduction and contact stories, focusing instead on the 'physical' aspect of UFOs. Keyhoe's approach, according to the author, helped keep the public focused on 'flying saucers' as devices rather than entities, and inadvertently made him a receptacle for potential misinformation.

The article suggests that Keyhoe's focus on a 'cover-up' by governmental officials, while exposing some information through lawsuits and FOIA requests, also served to direct attention away from more accurate answers to the mystery. The author notes that Keyhoe's stance was viewed with suspicion by the Air Force and CIA, who considered him radical and prone to misjudgments.

Spaulding posits two perspectives on Keyhoe's role: one as a motivator of the basic saucer movement, and another as a defender of extraterrestrial beliefs susceptible to government manipulation. The author implies that Keyhoe's strong stance against government 'injustices' paradoxically strengthened the government's position in defending against UFO investigations.

The article then discusses the rise of contact/abduction syndromes, particularly after the decline of NICAP and a lack of central UFO leadership. This vacuum allowed new ideas and contact stories with space beings to gain popularity, aided by discouraged researchers and sensationalized tabloids, with cases like Betty & Barney Hill becoming prominent.

The author presents four possibilities for close encounter events:
1. All events are hoaxes.
2. Real physical incidents combined with psychological manifestation.
3. All events are real and supported by a high volume of incidents.
4. A small residue of events are staged as part of manipulation by U.S. government intelligence agencies.

Spaulding critiques the 'all events are hoaxes' theory as too simplistic, but acknowledges why many individuals might think negatively about UFO claims, referencing George Adamski's early claims of talking to Venusians. The author suggests that Adamski's success, whether intentional or not, created a significant division among UFO enthusiasts into those who accepted his encounters and those who vehemently opposed them.

The article further categorizes UFO encounters into three main groupings among researchers:
A) Those who reject all cases in this category.
B) Those who believe in voice and mental communication with space races, often with a religious trend.
C) Those who reject both A & B and strongly support the abduction theory.

Abduction cases are described as lacking communication and trips to other planets, often involving 'missing time' and 'medical examinations.' These cases are seen as more 'believable' and closer to the Keyhoe system of UFO behavioral criteria, as they do not jeopardize the premise of physical ETH-type incidents.

However, the author points out that many abduction cases violate J. Allen Hynek's prerequisite system (requiring multiple witnesses and physical evidence), despite a high strangeness index. The article criticizes the ease with which a UFO sighting can transition into a UFO-creature abduction case in the minds of many, making it a 'middle-of-the-road' approach to the phenomenon.

Category Two: Physical Sightings with Latent Revelations

This category discusses events where witnesses might have a physical sighting and later claim a psychological encounter, often surfaced through regressive hypnosis. Spaulding expresses surprise that many researchers authenticate Close Encounters of the Third Kind based on such subjective testing. He notes that while not all hypnosis results are fraudulent, additional data and professional testing are crucial. He cites research by Dr. Lawson, which found less than satisfactory results with regressive hypnosis, often revealing fantasy stories similar to those reported by UFO witnesses, with simple suggestion from the hypnotherapist framing the narrative. The article criticizes the improper testing and journalistic sensationalism that can make these events seem believable.

Category Three: The Assumption of Real Occurrences

This category is deemed the least plausible, assuming all close encounter events are real. The author dismisses this as 'stereotyping to the tenth power and foolish logic.' He argues that the evidence often comes from researchers insisting on a global phenomenon, but that many cases, particularly in South America, are suspect and lack evidence. The author attributes many such experiences to cultural factors, extreme religious beliefs, cultist tendencies, and superstitions, rather than extraterrestrial visitations.

Spaulding criticizes the reliance on the 'investigation techniques of unknown researchers' and the overlooking of the fact that abduction and contact stories have permeated global culture for years. He notes that many foreign UFO groups build their memberships on this aspect of the mystery.

The article concludes by emphasizing the need for the field to establish immediate criteria for contactee/abduction cases and to develop a program to cull obvious hoaxes from suspect cases. It suggests minimum acceptable requirements for verification, including a comprehensive polygraph test by a certified operator with at least five years of experience.

Article 2: Pentagonal, Hexagonal, and Other Unusual UFOS by John F. Schuessler

This article, part of a series, compiles reports of UFO sightings featuring unusual geometric shapes, primarily pentagonal, hexagonal, and octagonal. John F. Schuessler presents various cases, detailing witness accounts, dates, locations, and descriptions of the objects.

Pentagonal Objects:

• March 23, 1979, Bristol County, Massachusetts: Two newsmen, Gerald Lopes and Steve Sbracci, described a pentagonal object resembling a home plate. It had a white light on the front, red lights on the sides, and smaller lights on the rear. The object was solid, blocked out stars, and was estimated to be about 1000 feet overhead. Its bottom was described as brownish-black.
• October 1979, New England UFO Newsletter: Joe Nyman reported a pentagonal object observed by two newsmen. The object hovered and then moved ahead. It was later seen directly overhead, described as home-plate shaped with lights as detailed above. Advertising airplanes were confirmed not to be flying in the area.

Hexagonal Objects:

• March 5, 1979, Charlotte, North Carolina: The Tarheel UFO Study Group Newsletter reported a hexagonal object seen by two women and a 15-year-old son. Initially appearing as an airplane, it descended and approached, revealing several white lights. It was described as having lattice runs and tank-like structures on a metallic hexagonal center, estimated to be no longer than a 747 jet.
• August 10, 1981, Northfield, Minnesota: The Northfield, MN NEWS reported Russel Matson sighting a hexagonal object. It appeared as two lights initially, then moved overhead. Matson described it as a 'perfect image,' with a hexagon shape, 60-90 feet span, and about 15 feet thick. It had two green lights on one side, two red on the other, and white lights at the front and back. The speed was estimated at 10-15 mph, with a 'whooshing' sound.

Octagonal Objects:

• May 31, 1975, London, England: Tom Benson of The Sixth Quark Journal reported two octagonal UFO cases. Mrs. Fry and her husband saw a silent, octagonal object with two silver lights on a cross-bar moving slowly across the area.
• January 23, 1976, Bolton, England: Shelley Barnes reported an octagonal object over a reservoir. It had two large lights on the front, one amber and one flashing red. The object rotated on its axis, causing her teeth to vibrate, suggesting an ultrasonic sound.
• January 2, 1981, Petworth, England: Peter Langride and his son saw an octagonal object described as dark, with yellow lights creating a 'haze rather than a beam,' like disco lights. The object appeared to be 'reverberating' with a 'purring' effect, though no audible sound was detected.

Square Objects:

• May 21, 1981, Bromley, England: Ellida Dempeter reported a square object with a bright white light that appeared as a cluster of lights. It was described as 'square.'
• September 15, 1981, Westfield, Indiana: A couple described a 'square-like object, whitish in appearance, with red and green lights shining upward, forming a crescent-like shape.' It hovered and moved slowly.
• June 15, 1982, Olympia, Washington: Tracy Schey and Dennis Bailey saw a square-shaped UFO with two large lights on top and bottom, and many smaller flashing lights. It was larger than a 747 jet and flew at an altitude of 1000-2000 feet, reminding Bailey of a 'lighted oil derrick.'

Other Unusual Shapes:

• March 22, 1982, Mt Washington, New Hampshire: A 'flying cheese wedge' was sighted. Details are sparse, but witnesses are described as credible.

The author notes that unusual shapes are puzzling but continue to be reported, even by individuals with flying experience or media backgrounds. He discusses the difficulty in identifying these objects, as airport and FAA personnel have verified the absence of aircraft traffic. While red and green lights might resemble aircraft running lights, witnesses are often directly below the objects, providing a clear view of their non-aircraft shapes. Schuessler concludes that it is better to leave such sightings open to speculation than to force an identification.

Article 3: Project VISIT by John F. Schuessler

This section describes Project VISIT (Vehicle Internal Systems Investigative Team), a nonprofit corporation focused on the scientific and engineering study of unidentified space vehicles and the physiology of their occupants. The organization comprises doctors, engineers, scientists, and supporting members.

Project VISIT's research methods include analyzing transcripts of conversations with abductees, follow-up conversations, medical injuries sustained by witnesses, data from electronic and photographic means, and physical evidence from incident locations. Their objectives are to determine correlations in scientific and engineering data, identify prevalent internal systems, evaluate their purpose and operation, and share findings with the public.

To date, VISIT has cataloged 86 abduction cases, with medical effects noted in 66. Vehicle internal information was obtained from 19 cases, and potential internal systems data from 45. Electromagnetic effects were noted in 56 cases, and time loss in 44.

VISIT has developed a list of questions to aid investigators in abduction cases, focusing on space vehicle engineering systems, medical examinations, instruments used, physiology of beings, and after-effects on abductees.

The organization seeks cooperation from expert investigators in the field, offering scientific and engineering critiques of data and expanded research findings in return. They maintain strict confidentiality of individual case information but share general research results with educational institutions, government agencies, medical professionals, scientists, news media, and the public through various channels.

A current project involves preparing a catalog of UFO cases where witnesses exhibited medical injuries. The data gathering phase is underway, with plans to develop a standard database and assemble material for publication.

Reports Digest

The Australian Centre for UFO Studies (ACUFOS) has launched a new service called the REPORTS DIGEST, compiled by Australian researcher Keith Basterfield. This publication will feature UFO sighting reports, primarily from Australia, with significant overseas reports included. The frequency of publication depends on the quantity and quality of incoming reports, averaging once a month. Subscription rates are AUD $11 for Australia and AUD $12 (surface mail) or $15 (air mail) for overseas. Subscriptions can be sent to ACUFOS, PO Box 229, Prospect, South Australia 5082.

Addendum to "The Federal Hypothesis"

William H. Spaulding provides an addendum to his article "The Federal Hypothesis" (UFORAN Vol.3 No.2), acknowledging that it drew heavily from Peter Kor's article "Is There a Plot to Promote Saucers?" (KOR'S KOSMOS, Issue 8, November 1980). He notes that large portions of Kor's article appear verbatim in his own work and provides contact information for Peter Kor.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO phenomena, particularly abductions and contact cases. There is a strong emphasis on questioning the validity of claims, the reliability of investigative methods (especially hypnosis), and the historical narratives surrounding key figures in ufology like Donald Keyhoe and George Adamski. The magazine adopts a skeptical yet open-minded stance, advocating for rigorous scientific methodology and the establishment of clear criteria for evaluating UFO evidence. The reporting of unusual object shapes also highlights the diversity of reported sightings and the challenges in identifying them. The editorial stance appears to favor a cautious, evidence-based approach, warning against jumping to conclusions or accepting unsubstantiated claims, while also acknowledging the persistence and widespread nature of the UFO mystery.

This issue, titled "ABDUCTIONS/CONTACT!", is identified by its page number '29' and appears to be part of a series, with the cover date suggesting a range from May 1978 to 1981, though the publication year is indicated as 1982 by copyright. The publisher is William H. Spaulding, and it is registered by Australia Post with publication number SBQ1224. The cover features a distinctive graphic with a teal background, an atomic orbital diagram, a silhouette of Australia, and a small flying saucer. The price is listed as $ Aust 15.

Abductions and Contactee Cases: Investigation and Theories

The issue begins by outlining a rigorous methodology for investigating alleged UFO abduction and contactee cases. This includes a second polygraph test by a different operator, hypnosis performed by a competent medical doctor with at least five years of experience in medical-related hypnosis, a physical examination including body fluid testing for hallucinogenic drugs, a complete medical history of the witness, and a tape recording of the narrative and testing procedures. It also specifies that cases older than 60 days should not be evaluated due to time elapsed, and that photographs of pertinent details and evaluations of malfunctioning electrical/mechanical devices are crucial. The goal of this standardization is to establish a database and eliminate hoaxed cases.

Category Four: Government Manipulation Theory

A significant portion of the content explores a "Category Four" theory, which posits the potential for government manipulation to enhance the 'saucer saga' or deliberately misdirect research. This theory is presented as more plausible than others, acknowledging that close encounters may not be entirely real or hoaxes, but a combination. The subjectivity of investigation tools is highlighted, suggesting that much of the retrieved data may be erroneous. The theory suggests that a government intelligence community, possibly a secret component of the CIA or NRO, might have a need to enhance the perception of UFOs or conceal government saucer activity. It references a forwarded theory of purported mind control and psychological testing by the DIA and CIA, noting the government's long-standing interest in mind control as a weapon system since 1951, supported by FOIA documents.

The scenario of covert mind control testing is described as using the saucer story as a cover. By publicly denying UFO existence or labeling witnesses as unbalanced, then staging a UFO sighting and using drugs or suggestive means, a witness could experience a 'real' close encounter. This would provide valuable data on the subject witness's interaction with testers, media reactions, and public response, all from a single staged event. Another motive suggested is to enhance pro-saucer theories, thereby promoting the idea of outerspace visitations to distract from potential government intervention in public lives, or as a cover for clandestine weapon system testing or to offset political situations. It is noted that only a few 'false' incidents would be required.

To further support this theory, researchers are encouraged to analyze data from foreign countries, particularly South America, and compare it to US cases. If South American events are found to be attributable to superstitions or hoaxes, the significance of US 'good' cases would increase, helping to establish patterns and reduce the aura of global close encounters.

Despite these theories, the issue emphasizes the critical lack of data to support any single explanation. The major question remains the origin of the 'space race' piloting UFOs, and what a UFO truly is. The author warns that excessive hypothesizing diminishes credibility, and the field needs immediate scientific controls to prevent data from remaining ambiguous and useless. The possibility that select individuals like George Adamski were deceiving the public, or that cases like the Betty and Barney Hill abduction were manipulation experiments, is raised, urging researchers to question who has been fooling whom.

Reference Library: Book Reviews and Bibliographies

The latter part of the issue focuses on reviews of UFO-related publications, serving as a "reference library" for researchers.

The ACUFOS Bibliography Service: Exobiology and Urology

This section reviews "The Australian Centre for UFO Studies Volume One: Exobiology and Urology" bibliography series, compiled by John Prytz. The ACUFOS Bibliography Service column, previously featured in the ACUFOS Journal, has been consolidated into this volume. The bibliography is described as a "selected bibliography" focusing on two main criteria: interest to likely audiences and accessibility of material. It contains 3676 entries covering source material on UFO phenomena, artificial intelligence, exobiology, astronomy, and extraterrestrial life, drawing from a wide range of journals, magazines, and media. It is noted that this bibliography aims to help researchers keep up with the rapid explosion of information in these fields. Existing bibliographies like Catoe's, Sable's, Mallove's are mentioned as being older or harder to obtain. The volume includes three indexes: a name index, a journal and program title index, and a book review index. The document is available from The Australian Centre for UFO Studies in Prospect, South Australia, for $ Aust 15, and also from Arcturus Book Service in Scotia, N.Y., USA.

The Catalogue of UFO Periodicals

This review discusses "The Catalogue of UFO Periodicals," researched, compiled, and edited by Tom Lind. The reviewer, Keith Basterfield, congratulates Lind on producing a useful reference tool for both casual browsers and serious researchers. The catalogue contains 1142 entries across 281 pages, detailing title, publisher's country of origin, dates of first and last issues, frequency, and noteworthy comments for periodicals containing UFO/UFO-related material. While some data is missing, the reviewer commends the extensive work and dedication involved. Tom Lind hopes to rectify omissions with future periodical supplements. The catalogue is available from Mr Tom Lind in Hobe Sound, Florida, for $ US 12.50 plus postage, with additional charges for international orders and sales tax for Florida residents. It is also available from Arcturus Book Service.

Project Identification: The First Scientific Field Study of UFO Phenomena

This section reviews Harley D. Rutledge's book, "Project Identification: The First Scientific Field Study of UFO Phenomena." Bill Chalker reviews the book, which details a scientific study of UFO flaps. Rutledge's approach sought to treat UFO phenomena as a basis for repeatable scientific experimentation. The review highlights the Tyringham Dundurrabin flap of 1973 as a personal experience of the author, noting the elusive nature of the phenomena observed. Rutledge's "Project Identification" involved deploying equipped teams to study UFO phenomena, using equipment such as cameras, binoculars, telescopes, a spectrum analyzer, and oscilloscopes. The project observed 178 UFOs during 157 sightings and produced 700 photographs. Rutledge distinguished between 'Class A' UFOs (bizarre behavior/properties defying conventional explanation) and 'Class B' UFOs (unidentifiable but not defying rational explanation). Of the sightings, 34 were classified as Class A, but none of the 700 photographs were of Class A events. The reviewer expresses a curious ambivalence, acknowledging the application of a scientific program but questioning whether the observed UFOs were truly 'unidentified,' suggesting a large percentage might be attributable to prosaic factors. The reviewer was not satisfied that all possible explanations were exhausted and was left with the impression that many Class A UFOs might have been of a similar vein to Class B. Despite this, the reviewer applauds Rutledge's efforts and hopes for future documentation of truly puzzling phenomena. The review suggests that future projects should focus on isolated localities to minimize prosaic stimuli and media contagion effects, and recommends Allan Hendry's "The UFO Handbook" and Richard Haines' "Observing UFOs" as helpful references. The review concludes that while the book doesn't offer proof of UFOs, it indicates a methodology that, if refined, could provide the type of evidence science seeks.

Other Publications

UPIAR Research in Progress

This new journal, edited by Vicente J. Ballester Olmos, is noted as being of interest to scientifically minded ufologists interested in European UFO research. Contact information is provided for Coop. UPIAR S.r.1. in Milan, Italy.

UFO Sightings Register

The "UFO SIGHTING REGISTER," compiled by the Perth UFO Research Group, is a 22-page document recording Western Australian sightings from May 1978 to May 1981. It is available from the Perth UFO Research Group and also from Arcturus Book Service.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the challenges of investigating UFO phenomena, particularly abductions and contactee cases. There is a strong emphasis on the need for scientific methodology, standardization of investigative techniques, and critical evaluation of evidence. The issue explores controversial theories, such as government manipulation, while also acknowledging the lack of definitive proof and the potential for prosaic explanations. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, urging researchers to move beyond speculation and towards rigorous, evidence-based study, while also recognizing the value of comprehensive bibliographies and research tools in advancing the field.