UFO Researcher - 2002 vol 14 no 2

Magazine Overview

This issue of "The UFO Researcher," published by Sky People Association-West Japan in 2002, is Volume 14, Number 2. The cover features a striking image of Mount Rainier with the bold headline, "The modern history of UFOs began here." The magazine is edited by Kiyoshi Amamiya and includes contributions from various researchers and correspondents worldwide.

Articles and Features

Latest UFO Photos from Malaysia (1) & (2)

Authored by Ahmad Jamaludin, these articles detail recent UFO sightings in Malaysia. In February 2002, two witnesses near Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Sepang observed a disc-shaped object that was clearly not an airplane due to its lack of wings or tail. The object was photographed from a moving car. The report also mentions other UFO activity in northern Malaysia in January and February 2002, including triangular UFOs sighted over the sea off Penang Island and bright UFOs hovering over the island. The author expresses anticipation for UFO occupants to reveal themselves.

Until standing on Mt. Rainier on June 24, 2002 after meeting with my comrade for the first time in 30 years

This personal account by Kiyoshi Amamiya recounts his reunion with his old UFO research colleague, Takashi Okamura, after a 30-year separation. They met in Seattle and visited Mount Rainier on June 24, 2002. The article touches upon the significance of June 24th as 'Flying Saucer Day,' commemorating Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting near Mount Rainier, which is considered the start of modern UFO history. Amamiya and Okamura had collaborated in the past within the Cosmic Brotherhood Association (CBA), discussing theories about UFOs and their connection to ancient history and extraterrestrial intelligence.

UFO over Lake Hu-gu (China)

This section, credited to THE JOURNAL OF UFO RESEARCH and Liu Feng Jun, briefly mentions a UFO sighting over Lake Hu-gu in China.

Crop circles in Poland

Authored by Robert K. Lesniakiewicz, this piece likely discusses crop circle phenomena observed in Poland.

In One and Beautiful Afternoon

This article is by Jerzy Strzeja.

Japan UFO Symposium 2002

Kiyoshi Amamiya reports on the Japan UFO Symposium held in 2002.

Sad news! UFO investigator Mr. Takao Ikeda sudden death

This is a brief announcement of the passing of UFO investigator Takao Ikeda.

Over Northeast Japan, the object of a mystery stay in the air by continuation for two days.

This short report notes an unexplained object that remained airborne over Northeast Japan for two consecutive days.

UFOs over Tokyo

Authored by Satoshi Koori, this article likely details UFO sightings over Tokyo.

Editorial and Staff

The magazine lists its editorial staff, including Editor Kiyoshi Amamiya, Managing Editor Yuki Amamiya, and Associate Editor Osamu Sato. It also acknowledges representatives and correspondents located worldwide, including those from Poland, the Czech Republic, and the USA. Exchange partners include various UFO research organizations from Japan and other countries.

Historical Context and Personal Reflections

The issue delves into the history of UFO research, referencing the Kenneth Arnold sighting and the establishment of 'Flying Saucer Day.' Amamiya's personal narrative highlights his long-standing collaboration with Takashi Okamura, their shared interest in UFOs, and their differing approaches to disseminating information about UFOs and their potential connection to ancient civilizations. The article touches upon the challenges of presenting orthodox UFO research in a climate often dominated by sensationalism and pseudoscience.

Travelogue and Observations

Amamiya's trip to Seattle and Mount Rainier is detailed, including his reunion with Okamura, their visit to the Museum of Flight, and observations of unusual aerial phenomena. He describes seeing a circular rainbow-like phenomenon around the airplane's shadow, which he photographed and analyzed. He also notes the distinctive 'eye' motif found in Native American art, which he relates to UFO shapes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "The UFO Researcher" maintains a focus on empirical UFO research, historical analysis, and personal accounts. The editorial stance appears to favor a more scientific and grounded approach to UFO phenomena, distinguishing itself from more sensational or occult interpretations. There is a clear emphasis on the historical roots of UFO research, particularly the Kenneth Arnold case, and the ongoing efforts of dedicated researchers to understand the phenomenon. The magazine also highlights international collaboration in UFO research.

This issue of "GOODTIME" from 2002 focuses on a personal journey intertwined with UFO research and aerospace. The cover features the magazine title and a photograph of two men on a boat, with a smaller inset of the Space Needle. The issue delves into personal experiences, historical UFO events, and a visit to significant locations and industries.

Argosy Cruises and Blake Island

The author recounts a trip to Blake Island State Park via an Argosy Cruise from Seattle. The journey involved a ferry ride, during which the author observed the Seattle skyline, including the Space Needle, and noted the contrast between modern naval vessels and container ships. The author also reminisces about past experiences working in the port. Upon arrival at Blake Island, they experienced a cultural show based on Native American legends, which included a meal of clam soup. The show featured a performance with a symbolic lighting element resembling a Japanese lantern.

Mt. Rainier and UFO Sightings

The narrative shifts to a planned visit to Mt. Rainier on June 24th. The author, along with their companion Takashi Okamura, prepared for the trip, bringing symbolic items like a CBA flag and an 'Extraterrestrial Intelligence Trace Exploration' envelope. The initial plan was to visit both Sunrise and Paradise viewpoints. However, the Sunrise route was partially closed due to the season, and the road deteriorated significantly. They then proceeded to Paradise, a location described as 'heaven' by ancient Native Americans. The author reflects on the significance of the date, June 24th, as International Flying Saucer Day, referencing Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting of 'flying saucers' near Mt. Rainier. The author notes the vastness of the landscape and the presence of snow even in summer. During their time at Mt. Rainier, they observed a large bird and discussed the possibility of collecting stones from the sacred mountain, a practice the author had done at other significant sites. The author also reflects on the potential significance of the date in relation to UFO activity, recalling Arnold's account and the possibility of UFOs appearing. The author collected 13 stones from Mt. Rainier.

Boeing Factory Tours

The author describes a visit to the Boeing factory in Everett, Washington. The tour involved a significant amount of walking and was restricted in terms of photography. The author observed the assembly of jumbo jets, noting the immense scale of the facility and the use of cranes for moving parts. The tour also highlighted the thinness of the aircraft's metal skin, leading to reflections on the fragility of airplanes. After the tour, the author visited the parking area where finished aircraft were displayed before delivery to customers.

UFO Talks and Research Collaboration

Following the Boeing tour, the author met with Robert Duvall, a UFO researcher and friend of Takashi. They discussed UFOs over a meal at a restaurant where ingredients were cooked on a large, circular griddle. Duvall shared his perspective on UFOs, emphasizing their connection to nuclear threats and his belief that UFOs might be protecting humanity. He expressed his intention to publish his findings and collaborate with the author. Duvall also mentioned a relative who witnessed a UFO during the Vietnam War. The author was impressed by Duvall's dedication and shared his own research interests, including the connection between UFOs and historical events.

Personal Reflections and Travel

The author reflects on the differences between Japan and the US, particularly concerning education and environmental cleanliness. The narrative also includes details about the author's travel preparations, including obtaining travel insurance and learning how to read airline tickets. A peculiar incident is described where the author witnessed strange lights in the sky, forming a triangle, which blinked rapidly and appeared to be moving at high speed. This sighting is compared to other UFO observations and satellite-like objects. The author also details the process of transferring at Los Angeles Airport, including security checks and the unexpected discovery that Japanese citizens did not need to fill out departure cards. The flight to Seattle is described, including observations of the landscape and a peculiar circular rainbow-like phenomenon, which the author photographed. The reunion with Takashi Okamura in Seattle after 30 years is a significant emotional point in the narrative. The author describes Takashi's home and family, and the initial conversations focused on shared memories and the current situation. The author also mentions the process of editing and publishing UFO-related materials, including the "UFO Researcher" magazine.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes the personal aspect of UFO research, blending travelogue with historical accounts and scientific inquiry. The author's journey serves as a framework to explore significant UFO events, particularly Kenneth Arnold's sighting, and the ongoing research in the field. There is a recurring theme of collaboration and the exchange of information between researchers, both in Japan and the US. The potential connection between UFOs and global security, specifically nuclear threats, is highlighted. The magazine appears to adopt a stance that UFOs are a serious subject worthy of investigation, with a focus on evidence-based research and the historical significance of sightings. The narrative also touches upon cultural observations and personal reflections, making the exploration of UFO phenomena relatable and engaging.

This issue of "UFO Researcher" (Issue 28, dated August 2002) chronicles the author's travels and experiences, blending personal observations with UFO-related investigations and discussions. The narrative covers visits to Seattle, Washington, including the Museum of Flight and the Boeing factory, a trip to Mt. Rainier, and interactions with UFO researchers.

Travelogue and Observations

The author begins by contrasting popular UFO beliefs with their own, which tend to focus on factual investigation rather than spiritual or occult interpretations. They express a desire for intervention by real UFOs to promote world peace.

Museum of Flight

A visit to the Museum of Flight in Seattle is detailed, where the author observed various aircraft, including a Douglas DC-3. A personal anecdote involves sitting in a fighter plane cockpit and a humorous observation about a narrator's comment on 'flying saucers'. The author also notes the state-of-the-art Boeing 777 being built without blueprints and the historical displays of early aviation.

Seattle Art Museum and Native American Art

The author visited the Seattle Art Museum, focusing on Native American art, particularly thunderbird sculptures and the recurring motif of the 'eye', which they connect to the shape of flying saucers and ancient sacred symbols.

Argosy Cruises and Blake Island

A trip to Blake Island via Argosy Cruises is described, including a performance based on Native American legends. The author reflects on past work in Yokohama's harbors and the dangers associated with it.

Mt. Rainier Excursion

The author and their companion, Takashi, visited Mt. Rainier. They encountered a closed road to Sunrise but proceeded to Paradise. The author notes the natural beauty and the legend of Mt. Rainier. They also mention the frequent sightings of Bigfoot in Washington State. During their time at Mt. Rainier, the author engaged in a personal 'ceremony' involving a replica flying saucer and a flag, and buried a copy of "Search for Evidence of Extraterrestrial Intelligence". They also observed a light aircraft and wondered if it was related to the Arnold incident.

Boeing Factory Tour

A tour of the Boeing factory in Everett is described. The author notes the scale of the operation, the assembly of jumbo jets, and expresses unease about the thinness of the aircraft's metal skin. They also mention the process of transferring planes to their delivery lots.

UFO Talks with Robert Duvall

Following the Boeing tour, the author met with UFO researcher Robert Duvall. Their discussion centered on the core issue of UFO information involving nuclear weaponry and its implications for Earth. Duvall shared his perspective on global societies and the threat of nuclear weapons. He also mentioned a personal connection to the Vietnam War and a 'mysterious helicopter' sighting.

Research and Future Plans

Duvall expressed his admiration for the author's work and his own commitment to researching UFOs, particularly their connection to nuclear activity. He plans to make his findings available through a book or website. The author also mentions receiving a book about the world's first nuclear experiment.

Travel Reflections and Departure

The author reflects on the meeting with Duvall and their subsequent visit to a bookstore, where they purchased numerous books, leading to overweight baggage. The author also notes the pleasant environment and weather in Seattle.

Chinese UFO Sighting

A separate section details a UFO sighting over Lugu Lake in Yunnan Province, China, on February 18, 2001. A white, spherical luminous object was photographed. Analysis of the image by Duan Lixin identified characteristics such as a cut-off bottom, a regular mesh structure on the surface, and ejected material.

Polish Crop Circles

Another section introduces Robert K. Lesniakiewicz, a UFO researcher from Poland, and the new UFO magazine "SWIAT UFO". It discusses crop pictograms in Poland and mentions a beautiful crop circle photographed by the UFO Klub Záblesk and a bird's-eye view of a crop circle from NAUTILUS.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of UFO phenomena through factual research, personal travel experiences, and the intersection of UFOs with technology, history, and global security concerns, particularly nuclear weapons. The editorial stance appears to favor a rational, evidence-based approach to UFO studies, while also acknowledging the historical and cultural aspects of the phenomenon.

This issue of 'Super Express' (Wydarzenia section) from Poland, published in 2002, delves into the phenomenon of crop circles and UFO sightings, with a particular focus on events in Wylatowo. The magazine also includes articles on historical UFO encounters, the potential intelligence behind these phenomena, and a tribute to a prominent UFO researcher.

Cover Story: Marsjanie poszli na łatwiznę (Martians took the easy way out)

The cover story highlights mysterious crop circles that appeared in a wheat field in Wylatowo, Poland, for the third consecutive year. Unlike previous years with more intricate designs, this year's circles are described as simpler, consisting of five connected circles. Local resident Jan Przybylski states he saw no lights or UFOs, but believes the circles were not made by human hands due to their precision. Halina Nowicka from Torun suggests they are a sign from an alien civilization, implying humanity is not yet ready to understand it. The article notes that while UFO researchers were monitoring the skies for UFOs, the crop circles appeared on the opposite side of the road, eluding their cameras.

Wylatowo Circles and UFOs

Japanese text discusses the Wylatowo circles, noting their similarity to patterns seen in the UK. It mentions a book by Miros Jesensky titled 'Wunderland,' which focuses on 'Nazi UFOs' and includes extensive related materials. Another document, 'PROJEKT TATRY,' by the same author, features numerous UFO photographs, including 16 pages of color photos. The article points out a striking similarity between a photo of a semi-transparent circle near Silbury Hill in the UK and a white object photographed near a man in Wylatowo, Poland, suggesting a potential connection.

Footprints from the Past: The Triassic Discovery

Jerzy Strzeja recounts his discovery of a human-like footprint in a Triassic quarry, dating back 213-248 million years. He presented the artifact to professors who suggested it was made by mollusk shells. Strzeja finds this explanation unsatisfactory, questioning the accidental origin of life. The article draws parallels to the Cheirotherium, an animal with hand-like traces from the Triassic period, for which no skeleton has ever been found. It also mentions similar traces found near the Po river in Italy and in the US, some of which were reportedly radioactive, similar to UFO landing sites. The possibility of these being traces of future generations traveling through time is also considered.

UFOs and Nuclear Weapons

Several articles explore the connection between UFOs and nuclear weapons. A report from 'The UFO Researcher' (1996) suggests UFOs have indicated the danger of nuclear missiles. It details an incident where a Russian nuclear missile was on the verge of launch due to a system malfunction, but ultimately did not fire because the 'cipher' was not entered. The article emphasizes the ongoing danger posed by aging nuclear missile systems and suggests that UFO activity might be a way of warning humanity. Another piece discusses UFOs appearing near nuclear facilities, such as a red UFO seen after the Chernobyl meltdown that emitted beams to reduce radiation, and a UFO over a uranium mining site that caused transmutation of the ore. The article quotes a friend in America stating that while UFO issues have the power to revolutionize society, research must have a broad social perspective to effect change.

UFO Symposium 2002

This section details the 'Japan UFO Symposium 2002,' held in Tokyo. The overall theme was 'The Age of Cosmic Relations.' Speakers included Ryo Takemoto on 'Terrorism and UFO,' Echan Deravy on 'The UFO issue of the New Age,' Kiyoshi Amamiya on 'The way of living that UFO intelligence wants the human race to follow,' and Akiko Arakawa on 'The journey into space.' Kiyoshi Amamiya's lecture, as summarized, emphasizes that UFO flights have meaning and discusses various incidents where UFOs seemed to communicate messages or warnings, such as the Washington D.C. incident in 1952, UFOs forming a cross over the Vatican, and UFOs interacting with aircraft.

The Will Behind UFO Flights

Richard Hall's commentary on UFO flights suggests they convey messages. UFOs approaching aircraft might be saying 'Do not fear us' or 'We are friends of the sky.' When fighter jets attempt to attack, they experience blackouts, interpreted as 'Do not attack us.' The article also mentions UFOs appearing as 'unidentified helicopters' during the Vietnam War, leading to friendly fire incidents, and a UFO altering target numbers on a Minuteman missile. The author expresses a wish for a world free of nuclear weapons and notes the importance of maintaining peace in space.

Tribute to Takao Ikeda

The issue includes a tribute to Takao Ikeda, a prominent Japanese UFO researcher, who passed away at the age of 51. It details his lifelong interest in UFOs, his research, and his development of a UFO observation device. The article recounts his early experiences with UFOs, his involvement with UFO research groups, and his publications, including the book 'Nihon no UFO' (Japan's UFO). His passing is mourned by colleagues, who remember his dedication to the field.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the mystery of crop circles, the potential for extraterrestrial intelligence to communicate with humanity, and the perceived connection between UFOs and nuclear technology. The magazine adopts a stance that UFO phenomena are significant and warrant serious investigation, often suggesting a deliberate intelligence behind these events. There is a strong emphasis on the idea that UFOs may be trying to convey messages or warnings to humans, particularly concerning global threats like nuclear war and the need for a broader understanding of our place in the cosmos. The editorial also highlights the importance of scientific inquiry and the potential for UFO research to revolutionize society, while cautioning against narrow-mindedness.

Title: IFO? UFO? 東北の空に気球状物体が2日間連続出現して長時間目撃され、騒がれる (IFO? UFO? A balloon-shaped object appeared in the sky over Tohoku for two days, was sighted for a long time, and caused a stir.)

Issue: Vol. 14 No. 2

Date: August 6, 2002

Publisher: Kiyoshi Amamiya

Country: Japan

Language: Japanese

Document Type: Magazine Issue

Main Cover Story: Balloon-Shaped Object Sighted Over Tohoku

The cover story details the sighting of a mysterious balloon-shaped object in the skies of Miyagi and Iwate Prefectures, Japan, over two days in May 2002. The object was observed for extended periods and attracted attention from the public, meteorological agencies, and amateur astronomers. Photographs of the phenomenon were taken, and the event was reported in newspapers.

Eyewitness Accounts and Photography

Kozo Sugawara, a photographer from Mizusawa, captured images of the object on May 23rd and 24th, 2002. The photographs were taken using a Nikon F-801 camera with a Tokina zoom lens (150-500mm) and a 1.6x teleconverter, resulting in an effective focal length of 800mm. The film used was Fujiprovia 100F, with an aperture of F5.6 and shutter speeds ranging from 2 to 8 seconds. Sugawara noted the difficulty in exposure due to the object's brightness and the need for precise shutter control even with a tripod.

Official Observations and Analysis

The Sendai Astronomical Observatory also observed and photographed the object. A report from the observatory describes the object as a bright white point during the day, which, upon closer inspection with telescopes, appeared to be a surface area rather than a mere point of light. It was likened to a bright, small white donut or a large, semi-transparent balloon. The object was observed to be moving slowly towards the northeast. In the evening, as the sky darkened, the object became intensely bright, appearing as a -6 to -7 magnitude object, before turning orange and fading from view by 8 PM.

Meteorological and Astronomical Perspectives

The Morioka Local Meteorological Observatory confirmed observing a colorless, transparent object on the evening of May 23rd. They noted that while there was a slight westerly wind, the object showed little movement, appearing to hover slightly south of Hanamaki. The observatory ruled out their standard weather balloons, which are white rubber, as the cause. The Japan Meteorological Agency also launches weather balloons from Sendai and Akita, but these are also distinct from the observed phenomenon.

High-Altitude Balloon Experiment

Separately, the Sanriku Balloon Facility of the Institute of Space and Astronautical Science (ISAS) in Sanriku-cho, Miyagi Prefecture, conducted a high-altitude balloon experiment on May 23rd, 2002. This experiment successfully launched a balloon that reached an altitude of 53 kilometers, setting a new world record for unmanned balloons, surpassing the previous record of 51.8 kilometers set by the US in 1972. The balloon, made of ultra-thin polyethylene, was equipped with observation instruments. While this experiment achieved a record altitude, the article distinguishes it from the mysterious object sighted over Tohoku.

Other Sightings and Context

The article includes a table summarizing sightings from May 23rd and 24th, noting locations such as Hanamaki, Sendai, and Furukawa, and times ranging from PM4 to PM7:30. It also references a book, "UFO of Soviet and Eastern Europe," which mentions balloon-shaped UFOs, suggesting an open mind is needed when analyzing such phenomena.

International Sightings

The magazine also features recent UFO photos from Malaysia (dated October 15, 2017) and several images from Japan in 2001, including sightings over Tokyo (April 6, 2001) and Nerima Ward, Jinseki-dai (November 30, 2001, and October 13, 2001).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO and unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP) sightings, presenting photographic evidence, eyewitness accounts, and official observations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging the collection of accurate records and considering various possibilities, including conventional explanations like balloons, while not dismissing the potential for unknown phenomena. The inclusion of international sightings and historical references suggests a broad interest in the global UFO phenomenon. The magazine aims to provide detailed information and photographic evidence for researchers and enthusiasts.