UFO Researcher - 2002 vol 14 no 1

Magazine Overview

Title: THE UFO RESEARCHER
Issue: VOL.14 NO.1
Date: 2002
Publisher: SKY PEOPLE ASSOCIATION WEST JAPAN

This issue of THE UFO RESEARCHER, published in Japan, focuses on UFO phenomena reported globally, with a strong emphasis on photographic evidence and witness accounts. The magazine features a variety of articles detailing sightings from different countries, including Japan, Malaysia, Poland, and New Zealand.

Cover Story: UFO over Mt. Polica

The cover features a photograph taken on May 1, 2002, at 07:35 GMT (09:35 local time) on a mountain near Polica, at an altitude of 1,369m. The photograph, sent via email by Robert K. Lesniakiewicz, is believed to show a family member of the photographer. The object in the sky is described as not being a bird, airplane, or balloon. The enlarged image of this object is featured on the cover.

Article: A floating kite or snake?

This section details an event on January 1, 1995, where the contributor and his family observed a strange object in the sky. Described as a "long and slender string," "flat belt," or "sea snake which swims in the air," the object was highly alike and floated, moving windingly. Initially thought to be a new style kite, it was also observed while the contributor was photographing a fish hung on a thread. The object's size reportedly changed, becoming larger and smaller. The contributor's wife filmed the object with a video camera.

Article: UFOs Photographed Over Malaysia

Authored by Ahmad Jamaludin, this article discusses UFO phenomena in Malaysia, noting that only one or two cases are reported annually. Between 1950 and 2001, at least 5 still photos and 4 video footages of UFOs were captured. The first incident mentioned is a daylight sighting in Petaling Jaya in July 1968, where a photographer captured three shots of a disc-shaped object flying low over rooftops.

Another report details a January 1979 sighting by a Royal Australian Air Force personnel near Butterworth, Malaysia, who photographed a hovering disc with lighted portholes. Only two of the twelve shots taken were successful.

In September and October 1995, a spate of UFO sightings occurred near Sepang, Malaysia. A photographer from a local newspaper managed to photograph a lighted object hovering low over the jungles, which witnesses described as looking like a spaceship.

Further reports from Malaysia include a sighting in January 2001 in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, where a man filmed a bluish-white, saucer-shaped object with a dome. Additionally, in 1995 in Sabah, a witness photographed two shiny objects hanging stationary in the morning sky, which were not noticed at the time of photography but appeared upon development.

Article: Information about the 9/11 Incident from Beijing

This section presents information from Cheng Bobian, director of the China UFO Research Center in Beijing, regarding the 9/11 incident. It notes that while many people have sent CDs and photos of UFOs related to the 9/11 incident, information originating from China is considered particularly interesting.

Article: Polish UFO Cases

This section, based on information from Robert K. Lesniakiewicz, details several UFO cases in Poland.

One case from August 1989 describes a mass sighting of three light objects by over 50 people in a forest near Krakow. The objects flew low and hovered for about 30 minutes. The incident involved children and teachers, and police were called. Samples of grass and ash were collected and sent to a forensic science institute.

Another case, "UFOs Over Alwernia," by Prof. Bronisaw Rzepecki, describes an event on July 23, 1995, in Alwernia, Poland. Teenagers observed a strange shining trapezoidal object that formed an oval shape above buildings. Later, an individual named Jef B. reported an encounter with three extraterrestrial biological entities (EBEs) who communicated telepathically. The UFO was described as semi-spherical, 2m in height and 6m in diameter, and it departed towards the north and then west.

Other Mentions

The issue also includes a brief mention of a UFO sighting in New Zealand, where a television cameraman captured an object over the Clarence River estuary. There is also a note about the passing of Mr. Arai, a senior figure in the Japanese UFO community.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, photographic evidence, and international reports of anomalous aerial phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various cases and witness accounts for the reader's consideration, with a focus on documenting and disseminating information about UFOs from around the world. The magazine actively seeks contributions and exchanges with UFO researchers globally.

This issue of CZAS UFO, titled 'NIEZNANY SHAT' (Unknown Shat), focuses on UFO sightings and related phenomena, with a prominent article detailing an encounter in Japan and another discussing Polish meteorites and unexplained events.

Orange Sphere Sighting in Inba Village, Chiba

The main feature details a sighting that occurred on January 21, 1987, near Inba Marsh in Chiba Prefecture, Japan. The report is based on the testimony of Ms. Shizue Suzuki (75), who was walking with two friends, Ms. Ishibashi and Ms. Suzuki, when they observed a peculiar orange sphere. The object was first noticed at a distance of approximately 200 meters, moving towards them along a road. The witnesses described it as a dull, uniformly colored orange sphere with a clear outline, maintaining an altitude of about 10-15 meters above ground.

As the object approached to within 10-15 meters, it suddenly changed its course sharply to the right, crossing the road and moving between power lines before ascending and disappearing. Ms. Suzuki, the primary witness, was able to provide a detailed account, including an estimated angular size of 1.5 degrees. Investigator Fujitaira used this information, along with the object's proximity to power poles, to estimate its physical size at 40-80 cm.

The report also includes a diagram drawn by Ms. Suzuki illustrating the object and its flight path, as well as a map pinpointing the sighting location in Inba Village. The investigator, Fujitaira, emphasizes the importance of precise measurement and avoiding subjective estimations in UFO witness accounts, highlighting the challenge of determining the actual size of unknown aerial objects.

Robert K. Lesniakiewicz's Research and Polish UFO Phenomena

Another significant section delves into the work of Robert K. Lesniakiewicz, a researcher focusing on Polish meteorites and related phenomena. A table lists numerous instances of meteorite falls and other unexplained events in Poland, with dates, locations, mass, chemical composition, and remarks. Many entries are marked as 'UNK' (Unknown), indicating a UFO crash, space debris, or other unidentified aerial phenomena.

• Key incidents detailed include:
• 1969.09.16, Radków (Poland) / Suchy Dol (Czech Republic): Overflight of the unknown space body.
• 1979.08.20, The Great Polish Bolide: Overflight of the unknown space body or a battle among American and Russian satellites.
• 1983.12.02, Wielki Bolid Grudniowy: A fall of three bodies into water, possibly meteorites, space trash, or UFOs.
• 1999.07.22, Florynka near Grybów: Possible meteorite, rocket missile, or UFO crash.
• 2000.05.06, Meteoryt Beskidy: UFO catastrophe or spy apparatus.
• 2001.06.30, Skomielna Biała: Possible meteorite, or the witness heard audio effects of something falling.

The text explains the classification of meteorites (Stone, Iron-Nickel, Mixed) and the meaning of the symbols used in the table. It also mentions the famous 1908 Tunguska event as an 'UNK' entry.

Miniatures and UFO Collectibles

The magazine also features a section on miniature UFO-related merchandise, including 'golden jet planes' and other collectibles inspired by famous UFO cases and mysterious creatures. The article notes the increasing availability of such items, suggesting a growing public interest in the unexplained.

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

This issue of CZAS UFO continues its exploration of unexplained aerial phenomena through detailed witness accounts and investigative reports. The emphasis on precise data collection and analysis, as demonstrated in the Inba sighting report, reflects a commitment to rigorous investigation. The inclusion of Robert K. Lesniakiewicz's research on Polish events broadens the scope of unexplained phenomena covered. The magazine appears to maintain an open yet analytical approach to UFOs, acknowledging the possibility of extraterrestrial or unknown technological origins while striving for factual reporting. The recurring theme is the persistent presence of unexplained aerial objects and events across different regions and time periods.

This issue of the magazine, titled "日本空飛ぶ円盤研究会" (Japan Flying Saucer Research Association), with issue number "UFO-110" and volume "Vol. 39", is dated April 18, 2002. The cover prominently features the passing of Kin-ichi Arai, a significant figure in Japanese UFO research, under the headline "日本UFO界の長老 荒井欣一氏逝く" (The passing of Kin-ichi Arai, elder of Japan's UFO world).

Kin-ichi Arai: A Pioneer of Japanese UFO Research

The issue dedicates significant space to the obituary of Kin-ichi Arai, who passed away on April 18, 2002. It details his life, including his early career in radar maintenance during the war, his establishment of the "Japan Flying Saucer Research Association" in July 1955, and his founding of the world's first "UFO library." The article mentions his connections with prominent figures like rocket engineer Hideo Itokawa and authors Yukio Mishima and Ken Kurogane. His extensive collection of UFO-related materials has been donated to the UFO Fureai-kan in Iino Town. The obituary highlights the profound impact of his passing on the Japanese UFO community.

UFO Sightings and Personal Accounts

The magazine includes several firsthand accounts of UFO sightings. One report details an encounter on January 13, 2002, in Tokyo, where a black ball-shaped object was observed and photographed. Another account from November 30, 2001, describes an orange light descending from above clouds. A sighting from January 13, 2002, near Nerima Ward, Tokyo, mentions a bowling ball-like object. A more detailed report from February 12, 2002, describes an orange light in dark clouds that later appeared as an object. The website "The Wonder of a day" is featured, showcasing a collection of UFO photographs and experiences dating back to 1972, when the creator first witnessed a UFO.

Further afield, a sighting from January 5, 2001, in Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada, describes a white, self-luminous, cigar-shaped object. In the United States, on April 14, 2002, eight people witnessed three star-like lights forming a large triangle over Dover, Arkansas.

The editor also shares personal experiences, including an observation in 1970 in Kyushu where a UFO exhibited magnetic effects, and a more recent encounter in Tokyo where a black ball-shaped object was sighted.

Mystery Circles and Related Phenomena

The issue touches upon the phenomenon of mystery circles (or crop circles), with a mention of the first circle of 2002 appearing in a rapeseed field in Hampshire, UK. The article discusses the work of researcher Colin Andrews and the possibility of these formations being related to ET or ancient knowledge. It also briefly mentions the concept of 'Photon Belt' and its potential effects on human consciousness, referencing a book by Nobuaki Watanabe.

Editor's Reflections and Website Development

The editor, Amamiya Kiyoshi, shares his thoughts and reflections in a section titled "Messages." He discusses the importance of scientific observation in reporting UFO sightings, emphasizing the need for precise descriptions of size, speed, and behavior, rather than subjective estimations. He also reflects on the historical development of UFO research, the motivations behind it, and the challenges of distinguishing genuine phenomena from misidentifications or hoaxes. The magazine also announces the launch of a new website created by Masahiro Tsuda, featuring information on UFO research, including a UFO timeline and personal messages.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "日本空飛ぶ円盤研究会" focuses on commemorating the life and work of Kin-ichi Arai, a foundational figure in Japanese UFO research. It balances this with contemporary UFO sightings and research, including the ongoing mystery of crop circles and the theoretical concept of the Photon Belt. The editorial stance emphasizes a call for more scientific and precise reporting of UFO phenomena, while acknowledging the enduring fascination and mystery surrounding them. The magazine encourages readers to engage with UFOs through observation and critical thinking, rather than solely through belief or skepticism.

This issue of "The Tombs Age" explores the fascinating intersection of ancient Japanese burial practices, mythology, and the phenomenon of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs). The central theme revolves around the interpretation of ancient tombs, particularly the Suikoden tomb in Yamato-Koriyama, as symbolic 'bird ships' designed to transport the souls of the deceased to the afterlife. The magazine presents a detailed account of a現地説明会 (genchi setsumei kai - on-site explanation meeting) held at the Suikoden tomb, where artifacts such as wooden bird and umbrella shapes were discovered. These findings are discussed in the context of ancient Japanese beliefs about the soul's journey to the heavens.

Ancient Tombs as 'Bird Ships'

The article by Kiyoshi Amamiya, titled "Ancient Yamato Koriyama City Tomb Excavation Report -- A New Interpretation from the Ancient Japanese Otherworld View -- The Tomb Was Seen as a 'Bird Ship' of Heaven!!", posits that the ancient tomb, surrounded by water, was conceived as a vehicle for the dead to ascend to the heavens. The author draws parallels between the tomb's form and the concept of a 'bird ship' (天の鳥船 - Ten no Torifune), a recurring motif in Japanese mythology and folklore. The discovery of wooden bird and umbrella-like artifacts at the Suikoden tomb is presented as evidence supporting this interpretation. These objects, along with other unearthed items, are believed to have been part of rituals or symbolic representations related to the deceased's journey.

Amamiya recounts his personal experience attending the on-site explanation meeting, detailing the excavation site and the unearthed artifacts. He notes the excellent preservation of the artifacts, particularly the wooden bird and a hat-like object (蓋 - kinugasa), which he likens to a UFO. The article includes photographs of the excavation site and the artifacts, emphasizing their potential connection to ancient beliefs about the afterlife and celestial travel.

Mythological and Historical Parallels

The magazine delves into various ancient texts and artworks to support its thesis. It references the legend of Prince Yamashiro no Oe and his family committing suicide in the face of Soga no Iruka's forces, with their souls depicted as flying objects ascending to the sky. Another illustration from the Edo period depicts a scene from the Daikōsai (大嘗祭 - the imperial enthronement ceremony), where attendants carry a canopy (菅蓋 - kōgai) and a hat-like object (蓋 - kinugasa), which the article suggests might have symbolic connections to the 'bird ship' concept and the descent of the heavenly grandson (天孫降臨 - Tenson Kōrin) in Japanese mythology.

Illustrations from various sources, including 'Kōshi Yawa' (甲子夜話) and 'Hōnen Shōnin Ekotoba' (法然上人絵伝), are presented, showing depictions of aerial phenomena and flying objects described as 'purple clouds' or 'red air'. These are interpreted as potential ancient sightings of what would now be called UFOs.

The article also explores the broader cultural context, mentioning the 'sun boat' concept in ancient Egypt, where pharaohs were believed to travel to the afterlife in boats powered by the sun. This is presented as a cross-cultural parallel to the 'bird ship' idea, highlighting a universal human fascination with the afterlife and celestial journeys.

UFOs and Ancient Beliefs

Several sections of the magazine directly address the connection between ancient depictions and modern UFO sightings. The article "Seeing UFOs with Your Eyes (The Form of Confirmed Flying Objects)" discusses the importance of understanding known aerial phenomena to properly identify UFOs. It presents photographs of airplanes taken under specific conditions (e.g., sunrays reflecting off the wingtips, slow shutter speed) that can create unusual visual effects, cautioning against misinterpreting such phenomena as UFOs.

However, the magazine also features images of what appear to be meteors or artificial satellites re-entering the atmosphere, which are presented alongside discussions of ancient 'bird ships'. The article "The Roots of the 'Bird Ship'" suggests that the concept of a 'bird ship' carrying souls to the heavens is a root of ancient UFO concepts, noting that the idea of a vessel for transporting souls is common across many cultures.

Modern Connections and Cosmic Burial

The issue touches upon modern practices like 'cosmic burial', where cremated remains are sent into space. The article notes that this modern practice reflects the same ancient human desire to reach the heavens after death. It mentions the first launch of a commercial space burial service by Celestis Inc., which sent the ashes of 24 individuals, including notable figures like Gene Roddenberry, into orbit.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the interpretation of ancient artifacts and burial sites as evidence of advanced ancient beliefs about the afterlife and celestial travel, the connection between ancient mythology and modern UFO phenomena, and the universal human aspiration to transcend earthly existence. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, seeking to bridge the gap between historical and mythological interpretations and contemporary observations of unexplained aerial phenomena. The magazine encourages readers to consider ancient beliefs and artifacts through a modern lens, suggesting that the human fascination with flight, the heavens, and the unknown has remained constant throughout history.

Title: UFO Discovery and Reporting Manual: The Path to a Manual

Date: Undetermined, but content spans from 1947 to 2002.

Character: This issue appears to be a compilation of materials intended for a UFO sighting manual, focusing on historical cases, observational techniques, and the analysis of photographic and video evidence. It aims to educate readers on how to identify and report UFO phenomena, while also distinguishing them from natural occurrences and man-made objects.

UFO History and Investigations

The article begins by referencing a planned 'UFO Encounter Manual' from 1998. It highlights that over 50 years have passed since the first widely reported UFO sightings, with people from all walks of life reporting encounters. Numerous UFO research organizations have been established globally, yet the phenomenon remains largely mysterious. The appeal of UFO research lies in the possibility of encountering the unknown, but many sightings are later identified as conventional aircraft or known phenomena.

The text then delves into historical UFO investigations, starting with the 1947 Kenneth Arnold sighting near Mt. Rainier, Washington, which sparked widespread public interest and coined the term 'flying saucer.' The US Air Force's involvement is detailed, including projects like 'Sign,' 'Grudge,' and 'Blue Book,' which aimed to investigate UFOs but whose findings were not publicly disclosed. The role of Edward J. Ruppelt, who coined the term 'Unidentified Flying Object' (UFO) in 1952, is also mentioned. The issue cites rocket engineer Hermann Oberth's analysis of over 70,000 UFO sightings from 1953, describing typical UFO shapes (disk, sphere, oval), formations, and flight characteristics, including their luminous properties and high speeds.

Joseph Allen Hynek, a scientific consultant to the Air Force, identified six key points of agreement among UFO researchers: UFOs are observed in the air or near the ground, their shapes and movements allow for classification into distinct patterns, their flight patterns defy known physics (inertia and gravity), UFO phenomena are global, and they can have physical effects. The issue also touches upon the scientific community's initial skepticism and the need for rigorous research.

Analyzing UFO Sightings: Methods and Challenges

The magazine emphasizes the importance of accurate observation and measurement. It explains how to estimate the distance to objects in the sky by comparing their apparent size to known objects and using tools like binoculars. The concept of 'apparent size' is clarified, noting that a 5 cm object appearing close might be much larger but further away. The use of angular measurement is proposed as a more precise method.

Several methods for estimating distances are discussed, including using known building heights (like apartments at 3 meters per floor) to gauge the altitude of birds. The text provides examples of bird sizes (sparrows ~14 cm, skylarks ~17 cm, pigeons ~30 cm) and discusses how to estimate the altitude of a bird by comparing it to known structures.

Distinguishing UFOs from Natural Phenomena and Aircraft

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to differentiating UFO sightings from misidentifications. It explains how optical phenomena like sun dogs (幻日) can be mistaken for UFOs, describing them as rainbow-colored halos around the sun caused by ice crystals. Examples of sun dogs are shown, including one that appeared lens-shaped like a UFO.

Other phenomena discussed include lenticular clouds, which can resemble airborne objects, and atmospheric effects that can distort the appearance of aircraft. The text also addresses how camera artifacts, such as lens flare, dust on the lens, or motion blur from slow shutter speeds, can create images that appear to be UFOs. Examples are given of insects appearing as elongated, dome-like objects in video footage, and of aircraft lights creating unusual shapes due to camera exposure.

Hot air balloons and helicopters are presented as common objects that are sometimes misidentified. The text notes that while hot air balloons are easily recognizable up close, they can appear circular when viewed from directly underneath and can be mistaken for UFOs when distant and their colors fade.

Photographic and Video Evidence Analysis

The issue scrutinizes photographic and video evidence of UFOs. It highlights that many seemingly compelling UFO photos have been debunked as hoaxes or camera tricks. The text explains how to analyze images, considering factors like lighting, exposure, and camera settings. It provides examples of how slow shutter speeds can cause moving objects, like insects or aircraft, to appear elongated or strangely shaped, leading to misinterpretations.

Specific examples of photographic analysis include: a photograph of the moon that shows its topography clearly, with a reflective image that appears half-moon shaped; a beam near a reflective moon image identified as an airplane; and 'garbage' on a camera lens creating dark shadows in an image.

UFOs and Scientific Inquiry

The article touches upon the scientific community's perspective, noting that UFO research has often been ignored or considered incomplete. It references a 1979 survey of scientists and engineers which indicated a significant interest in UFOs, with a majority believing in their existence and a substantial portion reporting personal sightings.

The text concludes by emphasizing the need for a scientific approach to UFO research, encouraging readers to test hypotheses and verify information rather than blindly accepting claims. It suggests that the study of UFOs may require expanding the framework of current scientific understanding.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the historical overview of UFO sightings and investigations, the critical analysis of photographic and video evidence, and the importance of distinguishing UFOs from known phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious inquiry, advocating for a scientific and methodical approach to understanding UFOs while acknowledging the persistent mystery surrounding many reported sightings. The magazine aims to equip readers with the knowledge to critically evaluate UFO claims and contribute to a more informed understanding of the subject.

Title: THE UFO RESEARCHER
Issue: Vol.14 No.1
Date: May 19, 2002
Publisher: Kiyoshi Amamiya
Country: Japan
Language: Japanese

This issue of THE UFO RESEARCHER delves into the practical aspects of UFO observation and photography, aiming to equip readers with the knowledge and methods to identify and document aerial phenomena. It emphasizes a proactive approach to UFO research, encouraging readers to become "UFO observers" rather than just passive recipients of information.

UFO Photography and Observation Techniques

The magazine provides detailed guidance on how to photograph UFOs, starting with the use of model airplanes. It explains how to set up a 35mm camera with a wide-angle lens (covering 53 degrees horizontally and 37 degrees vertically) and discusses the impact of distance on the apparent size of an object. Experiments using a 33cm diameter model disc are described, detailing camera settings such as ISO 100 film, a shutter speed of 1/60 sec, and an aperture of f/11. The apparent size of the model was measured at approximately 1/3 of the field of view when 1 meter away, corresponding to an angular size of about 17.6 degrees. When photographed from 3 meters, the object appeared significantly smaller.

The article explains how to calculate the apparent angular size of an object using its focal length and the observed image size. For a 30mm focal length lens and a 53-degree field of view, lines were drawn to represent the field. A 33cm object at 3 meters distance would appear as about 3mm on film, corresponding to an angular size of approximately 5 degrees.

It also covers the use of different camera types, including SLR cameras, and discusses the importance of understanding the relationship between object size, distance, and photographic representation. The article suggests that by understanding these factors and conducting photographic experiments, one can become better at identifying fake UFO photos.

Identifying Natural Phenomena

Beyond photography, the magazine stresses the importance of distinguishing UFOs from natural aerial phenomena. It discusses how airplane contrails can sometimes appear as moving, elongated shapes, especially when illuminated by the setting sun, appearing orange. The article also touches upon astronomical observations, noting that planets like Venus and Jupiter become very bright in the evening or morning sky and their positions change with the seasons. It references the "Astronomical Yearbook" for details on planetary visibility, illustrating Venus's position in the sky in January 1998 and its reappearance as the morning star in February.

UFO Observation Methods and Reporting

The issue introduces the concept of "UFO observation" as an active pursuit of sightings. It contrasts the "scientific school," which analyzes evidence objectively, with the "contact school," which focuses on alleged encounters with aliens. The magazine proposes a third approach, the "UFO observation school," which emphasizes not only receiving information but also actively contributing one's own observations and experiences.

Practical advice is given on how to record UFO sightings. Readers are encouraged to take notes immediately after a sighting, recording the date, time, location, direction, and shape of the object. They are advised to revisit the site later to reconfirm details. Methods for measuring the direction and angular elevation (仰角) of an object are explained, including the use of tools like an "angle finder" and a protractor.

Experienced UFO observers share their initial skepticism and how their understanding evolved through reading accounts and drawing diagrams of reported phenomena. The process of accumulating knowledge about UFOs is described as a way to prepare for potential sightings.

UFO Sighting Reports

The magazine includes specific reports and images of alleged UFOs. One notable report describes a pink UFO sighted over Sagami Bay on January 1, 1999, at 7 AM. The object was filmed by an individual named H. and described as a round, glowing body with three legs and colored protrusions, resembling a medium-sized disc. Another reader submitted information regarding a white, round UFO moving slowly from left to right, observed on September 11, 2001.

Editorial Notes

The editor's note mentions a recent bout of bronchitis affecting the editing process. It also discusses the challenges of producing the magazine, including the need to create both color and black-and-white versions of photographic material and the logistical effort involved in printing, binding, and mailing. The editor expresses a desire to increase the international reach of the magazine.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the practicalities of UFO observation, the scientific and photographic analysis of sightings, and the importance of distinguishing UFOs from natural phenomena. The editorial stance promotes an active, evidence-based approach to UFO research, encouraging readers to contribute their own documented observations and to develop critical thinking skills to evaluate aerial phenomena. The magazine aims to foster a community of informed observers who can contribute to the understanding of UFOs.