UFO Sightings - 1981 vol 2 no 4

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO SIGHTINGS
Issue: VOL. 2 NO. 4
Date: July 1981
Publisher: S.J. Publications, Inc.
Price: $2.25

This issue of UFO SIGHTINGS from July 1981 explores a range of topics within the UFO and paranormal field, with a strong emphasis on the potential link between UFO phenomena and psychic abilities, as well as a looming 'Doomsday' scenario.

Articles and Features

UFOS LINKED TO ESP (Page 6) This article investigates the growing number of people exhibiting psychic powers, such as telekinesis and precognition. It posits that these abilities are not mere coincidence but are connected to UFO sightings. Dr. Henry Morton of the University of Plainsville is interviewed, presenting his theory that aliens are actively involved in developing ESP in humans. He notes that individuals who experience these phenomena are often those who don't fit into conventional societal roles, such as farmers or those recovering from personal crises. Dr. Morton believes that the increase in psychic abilities coincides with an increase in UFO activity, suggesting a deliberate alien influence aimed at advancing human development.

UFO OCCUPANTS: THE HEART OF THE ENIGMA (Page 14) This feature likely delves into the nature and evidence surrounding UFO occupants, exploring the 'enigma' of their existence and purpose.

THE NUCLEAR UFO EXPLOSION THAT SHOOK THE EARTH (Page 17) This article reports on an alleged event where a UFO caused a nuclear-like explosion, impacting the Earth. It suggests a significant and potentially destructive encounter.

UFOS STIR BRAZIL (Page 20) This piece covers UFO sightings and activity reported in Brazil.

LIGHTNING UFOS OVER MISSOURI (Page 24) This article details sightings of UFOs that appeared in conjunction with lightning in Missouri.

THE LUBBOCK LIGHTS (Page 28) This feature discusses the famous 'Lubbock Lights' sightings.

ARE UFOS HOSTILE? (Page 30) This article examines the potential threat posed by UFOs, exploring whether they are benign or hostile in nature.

UFO OVER HAWAII (Page 32) This section presents 'shocking photos' of UFOs sighted over Hawaii.

SAUCER SAFARI (Page 34) This article likely describes a pursuit or investigation of UFOs, possibly involving travel or exploration.

THE HIGDON ABDUCTION (Page 36) This feature details a specific case of alleged alien abduction involving an individual named Higdon.

TEMPERATURE INVERSIONS DO NOT CAUSE UFOs (Page 38) This article debunks a potential scientific explanation for UFO sightings, specifically temperature inversions, arguing they are not the cause.

THE GREAT UNIDENTIFIED AIRSHIP SCARE (Page 40) This piece recounts a historical event involving sightings of unidentified airships, likely exploring its connection to UFO phenomena.

PHYSICAL EVIDENCE OF ALIEN CONTACT! (Page 5) This article highlights the work of Elgar Brom and her group, who claim to have received physical evidence from superior beings from another dimension. This evidence includes 'Sagasha,' a mysterious blue dust, and a 21-inch scroll with writing in seven ancient Earth languages. Brom's book, 'SAGASHA MYSTERIOUS DUST FROM SPACE,' details these experiences and a battle between forces of good and evil. The article suggests this is a major breakthrough in UFOlogy due to the tangible evidence presented.

UFOS AND THE SPACE BROTHERS WANT YOU TO SURVIVE DOOMSDAY! (Page 3) This feature presents a dire warning about the 'END TIMES,' with the foundation of civilization crumbling and the physical world facing destruction. It discusses 'Space Brothers' who are communicating with contactees, indicating that Earth is entering a critical phase. The article promotes a 50,000-word book, 'PSYCHIC & UFO REVELATIONS IN THE LAST DAYS,' which promises to reveal crucial information for survival and transition into a higher realm. It details potential global catastrophes, including polar shifts and ecological imbalance, and assures readers that 'Chosen Ones' will be saved. The book is available from S.J. Publications, Inc.

MAKE ANYONE DO ANYTHING YOU MENTALLY COMMAND-WITH YOUR MIND ALONE! (Page 7) This is an advertisement for a technique called SUCCESP (Extra-Sensory Persuasion). It claims to grant individuals the power to mentally command and control others. The ad offers a 'SUCCESP Activator' and a free gift, 'The Secret Worth $1,000,' for a small fee. It promises that this technique can be used to achieve goals in personal and professional life, with a money-back guarantee.

Astrological Weight Loss Method (Page 9) This advertisement promotes a weight loss program based on astrology. It claims that by analyzing an individual's birth date, a personalized meal and diet plan can be created to help shed up to twenty pounds in two weeks. The method aims to stimulate the pituitary gland and is presented as effective even when other diets have failed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes the idea that UFO phenomena are real and significant, often linking them to psychic abilities and extraterrestrial intelligence. There is a strong undercurrent of apocalyptic warnings, with 'Doomsday' scenarios and the need for spiritual or physical salvation being prominent themes. The editorial stance appears to be one of advocating for belief in these phenomena, presenting evidence and theories that support the existence of UFOs, alien contact, and psychic powers. The magazine also actively promotes books and products related to these subjects, suggesting a commercial interest in the UFO and paranormal community.

The magazine features a mix of investigative articles, personal accounts, and promotional material. The articles often present speculative theories as established facts, particularly concerning the connection between UFOs, psychic phenomena, and potential global catastrophes. The overall tone is sensationalist, aiming to capture the reader's attention with dramatic headlines and claims of groundbreaking discoveries.

This issue of "BRAZIL" magazine, dated April 22, 1976, with the cover headline "ARREBATADO PELO DISCO" (Abducted by the Disc), delves into various UFO sightings and alleged alien encounters. The publication, from the Brazilian newspaper "O DIA," features a price of 1.00 and covers incidents from Brazil, the United States, and even the Moon.

Key Articles and Reports

Abduction of Mario Restier

The lead story details the experience of Mario Restier, a foreman at a large iron processing plant in Barra Mansa County, Brazil. Restier claims he was abducted by a UFO for three months, though it felt like only three days. He describes a disc-shaped object, about 26 feet in diameter, hovering above the ground. Tall, human-like beings communicated telepathically, compelling him to board the craft. Inside, he encountered a third entity and was subjected to a process involving a clear glass box filled with liquid. Upon awakening, he was told they were about to arrive. He observed other saucer-shaped vehicles and was given new clothes before landing. Restier expressed a willingness to be abducted again to learn more about the aliens.

Seven Astronauts Died on the Moon

Another significant report concerns a purported secret landing on the Moon on February 12, 1976. The craft, identified by the marks "CAAZPS-2XL" and manned by twelve astronauts, allegedly landed in the Newton crater. A serious accident resulted in the death of seven crew members, with the remaining astronauts being rescued by aliens. The nationality of the aliens remains undisclosed, but the crew included names like "Frida," "Lautin," "Valen," and "Michelen."

UFOs Over Missouri

The magazine extensively covers a series of UFO sightings in St. Charles, Missouri, on June 12, 1973. The event began with twelve adults and numerous children observing an "icy-blue, almost electrical light" flashing across the sky. The display lasted over two hours and was witnessed by approximately twelve policemen who arrived on the scene. Patrolman Reuben Abbington described the objects as "like a flat thing, like a disc" that moved with incredible speed and brightness. Detective Peter Bishop noted that the objects would stop and remain stationary before darting off. Detective Darrell Tullock described the UFOs as "the weirdest things I've ever seen." The UFO Study Group of Greater St. Louis, including Director John Schuessler and Cliff Palmberg, analyzed the sighting. While some witnesses suggested a "ball lightning" or "plasma balls" theory, experts like Baumbach and Palmberg dismissed it due to the objects' intelligent maneuvers and duration, which far exceeded typical atmospheric phenomena.

The Lubbock Lights

This section revisits the famous "Lubbock Lights" case from Texas. On August 31, 1951, Carl Hart, Jr. captured five photographs of these UFOs, which could not be explained by the Air Force as birds. The article notes that the first sighting related to this phenomenon occurred in Albuquerque, New Mexico, about 250 miles away, before hundreds witnessed them in and around Lubbock. An employee of the Atomic Energy Commission and his wife reported seeing a large, "wing-shaped" UFO with blue lights and dark bands flying low over Albuquerque on August 25, 1951. Professors in Lubbock also observed "formations" of lights. Investigations by the Air Force concluded that the sightings were likely a natural phenomenon, but without providing a definitive explanation.

Advertising

The issue also includes advertisements, notably for "FAMOUS LUCK-KEY FOR GOOD LUCK!" and a psychic initiator kit, promising enhanced luck and mind-reading abilities, with a money-back guarantee.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, alien abductions, and the possibility of extraterrestrial contact. The magazine presents these accounts with a degree of seriousness, often citing witness testimonies, police confirmations, and photographic evidence. While acknowledging the skepticism surrounding such phenomena, the editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting the information and allowing readers to draw their own conclusions. The "EDITOR'S NOTE" on page 22 suggests that well-publicized sightings can stimulate further reports and imagination, indicating a cautious but interested approach to the subject matter. The magazine seems to lean towards the belief that these events warrant further investigation and are not easily dismissed.

This issue of the magazine, titled "UFO OVER HAWAII," delves into the controversial topic of unidentified flying objects, primarily focusing on the potential threat they pose to Earth. The cover boldly asks "HOSTILE?" and the articles explore evidence and theories surrounding UFOs, challenging optimistic viewpoints and highlighting instances of potential danger.

The Threat of UFOs

The lead article, "HOSTILE?", argues that UFOs represent a threat to Earth. The author posits that for any real progress in understanding UFOs, researchers must distinguish between facts and opinions. The article critiques the 'Space Brothers' theory, which suggests benevolent extraterrestrial visitors who adhere to a 'Great Cosmic Law' and do not interfere with Earth. The author dismisses these assertions as mere 'bubbles of optimism' and unsubstantiated fantasy. The article points to the lack of a definite public stance by governments on UFOs, which has allowed the field to be open to hobbyists and publicity-seekers. However, it suggests that unofficial actions like censorship, villification, and harassment of witnesses indicate official policies concerning UFOs. The author questions why governments would not publicize 'welcome news' if UFOs were indeed benevolent, implying that intelligence agencies may have a different agenda.

UFO Photograph from Hawaii

Another section details a spectacular UFO photograph taken in April 1974 by Japanese photographer Tsutomu Nakayama in Honolulu, Hawaii. The photo, analyzed by Maj. (ret.) Colman VonKeviczky, Director of ICUFON, is identified as a 'flying solid object' that cannot be identified. Nakayama, focused on a hula dance show, only noticed the UFO when developing the film. The object appeared in only one of three continuous frames, indicating an incredibly rapid appearance and disappearance, possibly due to the shot's fast shutter speed of 1/250th second. The analysis dismisses explanations like lens flare or damage. It also refutes the idea of a customary aerial vehicle due to the lack of visible propulsion, wings, or rudder. The object is described as a slightly tilted flange with an illuminated, dome-shaped upper part and a bump on the bottom. The estimated flight speed is calculated at 400 m./sec. or 24 km./min., comparable to speeds noted in other sightings. The conclusion is that the photographed 'aerial vehicle' is of extraterrestrial origin.

The Higdon Abduction

The issue presents a detailed account of the 'Higdon Abduction,' a startling and unusual UFO experience involving Carl Higdon. Following an elk hunt in Wyoming's Medicine Bow National Forest on October 25, 1974, Higdon encountered a man-like creature described as nearly human, about six feet two inches tall, weighing 180 pounds, with a slanted head, no chin, thin hair, and antennae. The creature, identifying himself as Ausso One, gave Higdon a package of four pills and invited him to accompany him. Higdon found himself in a transparent, cubicle-like compartment strapped to a plush chair. Ausso One explained the helmet he was wearing was for taking readings during the flight. Higdon observed an instrument panel and saw five elk frozen in a cage behind his seat. They traveled to a location 163,000 'light miles' away. Upon landing among extremely bright lights, Higdon complained about the intensity, and Ausso One explained that Earth's sun affects them similarly, hence their preference for shade and black suits. Higdon was then transferred to an elevator in a tower.

Debunking the Temperature Inversion Theory

An article titled "TEMPERATURE INVERSIONS DO NOT CAUSE UFOS!" challenges the popular theory that temperature inversions are responsible for UFO sightings. The author explains that temperature inversions cause mirages by bending light waves, making objects appear in different locations. While acknowledging that this can explain phenomena like a wet-looking road on a hot day, the article disputes its relevance to UFOs. It references Dr. Donald Menzel and the popular press's promotion of this theory in the 1950s. However, it states that Project Bluebook, under Capt. Ed Ruppelt, never took the theory seriously, and the public was unaware of this due to classified information. The article quotes Menzel's assertion that UFOs must depend on reflection or bending of light rays in the atmosphere. The author suggests that this explanation was readily accepted by scientists and the public because mirages were already considered 'spooky' and seemed to offer a plausible, albeit unproven, explanation for unexplained aerial phenomena.

Historical Airship Sightings

Another piece, "THE GREAT UNIDENTIFIED AIRSHIP SCARE," explores historical accounts of unidentified craft predating the 1940s. It recounts a story from the Santa Fe Daily New Mexican on March 26, 1880, about an enormous "airship" seen over Galisteo Junction, New Mexico. The craft was described as cigar-shaped with a tail and driven by a huge propeller, carrying 10 people who shouted in an unknown language and tossed items from the craft. These items, a flower and a piece of silk-like paper with 'Oriental characters,' and a cup of peculiar workmanship, were later displayed and purchased by a stranger identifying himself as a 'collector of curiosities.' The article notes that aeronautical historian Charles Harvard Gibbs-Smith considered such an event impossible based on pre-1910 aviation history.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout the issue is the potential hostility and unknown nature of UFOs. The editorial stance leans towards skepticism of optimistic explanations and a focus on evidence that suggests UFOs may pose a threat. The articles encourage critical thinking, distinguishing between fact and speculation, and questioning official narratives. The issue highlights historical cases, photographic evidence, and personal accounts, all contributing to a narrative that UFOs are a serious, potentially dangerous phenomenon that warrants further investigation and caution.

This issue of the San Francisco Call, dated November 19, 1896, features a prominent cover story detailing an airship sighting over Sacramento the previous Tuesday evening. The article, "The Airship That Passed Over Sacramento Tuesday Evening, as Described by Scores of Eye-Witnesses," presents a skeptical yet intriguing account, questioning the possibility of such technology existing in America at that time.

Airship Over Sacramento

The article begins by addressing the Sacramento sighting, suggesting that the objects seen were likely free-flying spherical balloons, given the limited technological capabilities of the era. It notes that dirigibles were only beginning to be maneuvered in the air in 1884 and that cross-country flights didn't occur until 1903. Dirigibles only appeared in the United States in 1904. The piece then considers the claim of William Jordan of San Rafael, California, who in November 1896, stated he had encountered six men with an 'aerial ship' in the Tamalpais mountains the previous August. The article casts doubt on Jordan's story, labeling it as potentially another 'concoction.'

However, the narrative shifts to vague rumors of airships appearing in Nebraska newspapers in October 1896. A more concrete account comes from near Bowman, California, where a fruit rancher and his family allegedly saw a craft sailing by at 100 m.p.h. with three brilliant lights. San Francisco's Mayor Adolph Sutro also heard a bizarre story from his servants about a mysterious flying object hovering offshore, visible by its lights.

The most dramatic account comes from Sacramento on November 17, 1896, where hundreds of witnesses described seeing an 'electric arc lamp propelled by some mysterious force' moving through the sky. Descriptions varied, with some calling it an 'enormous cigar-shaped construction with large wings attached to an aluminum body,' while others reported hearing shouts and laughter. The article concludes this section by noting that the Sacramento Bee described the event in breathless detail.

Lubbock Lights and Other Sightings

The issue then transitions to more recent phenomena, specifically the 'Lubbock Lights' of August 1951. It details how two radar stations in Washington state detected a target traveling at over 900 miles an hour, which vanished before an interceptor could reach it. Simultaneously, in Lubbock, Texas, Carl Hart, Jr., a freshman at Texas Tech, managed to take five photographs of lights in the sky. Despite initial skepticism from the local paper, the photos were eventually published.

The article recounts the experiences of two women near Matador, Texas, who reported seeing a pear-shaped object about 150 yards away, only 100 feet above the highway. Air Force investigators found their story credible but could not explain the sighting. Another account involves a woman in Lubbock whose sighting on the same night as the college professors' observation was particularly striking, as it matched the Albuquerque sighting and occurred shortly after, with no way for her to have known about it.

The Air Force's investigation into the Lubbock Lights officially began in September 1951. The Albuquerque sighting was investigated by the intelligence officer at Kirkland Air Force Base, and the witness's reliability led to the sighting being listed as unidentified in Project Bluebook files. The 'flying wing' sighting was never officially investigated but is considered related due to its independent reporting and matching descriptions.

Explanations and Debunking Attempts

The article explores various explanations for the Lubbock Lights, including the theory that they were 'plovers' (West Texas birds) reflecting city lights, a theory supported by a local game warden but deemed insufficient by investigators. The possibility of mass hysteria is also raised, as is the idea that ordinary phenomena might be mistaken for UFOs. However, many sightings, including the initial college professor accounts, the Albuquerque case, and Hart's photographs, remained unexplained.

Weeks after the Lubbock Lights incident, the radar unit commander inquired about the findings, only to be told the official conclusion was a 'weather problem.' The radar officer vehemently disagreed, citing the identical radar signatures on different frequencies. The article notes that the Lubbock Lights phenomenon ended abruptly, with no further reports or photographs.

Several years later, an Air Force scientist suggested a natural phenomenon explained the lights, but the details were kept secret, which the article dismisses as an attempt to discredit the sightings. The article concludes that while some sightings might be explained by birds or mass hysteria, the original Lubbock Light sighting, the Albuquerque case, and Hart's pictures withstood scrutiny and remain unexplained.

UFO Occupants and MIB

The issue then shifts to the topic of UFO occupants. It recounts a claim from Oahu, Hawaii, by a young construction engineer who described a silver-domed object with a transparent dome containing a spinning gold-colored device. The article appeals for witnesses named Demars or Lieutenant Nelson.

It moves on to occupants described as human-like with minor deviations. In Brazil, Dona Marie Cintra reported a foreign-looking woman with a strange language who requested water. Afterward, a silver, circular craft was seen hovering nearby. The article theorizes this could be an early abductee controlled by alien masters.

A significant case investigated by Dr. Olavo Fontes and Joao Martins involved Antonio Villas Boas, a Brazilian farmer who reported being exposed to radiation, suffering nausea, insomnia, and lesions. He described an aerial craft landing and being taken aboard by three men. The article notes that Boas's physical condition indicated exposure to a non-fatal degree of radiation.

The concept of 'Men in Black' (MIB) is introduced as a potentially related mystery. The article acknowledges that MIB are not typically seen emerging from UFOs, but their role in the occupant mystery is considered vital. It suggests that if MIB are not a product of overactive imagination or a CIA unit, then they represent a most ominous situation. The article notes that MIB cases are often characterized by strange circumstances and that some investigators believe ESP might be involved. The author mentions a case in Maine involving a woman named Sue, who experienced UFO sightings, trance-like states, and encounters with men in dark suits who warned her to forget about UFO sightings, citing the risk of mass hysteria.

The Tungus Disaster and Martian Spaceship Theory

A substantial portion of the issue is dedicated to the Tungus disaster of 1908. The article questions the prevailing theory that it was a meteorite impact, citing the lack of a crater and the immense energy released. It argues that a meteorite would not have caused such devastation without leaving a significant crater, and the swampy soil's condition is also questioned. The presence of metallic dust and magnetic spherules found at the site is presented as evidence that does not definitively prove a meteorite origin, suggesting it could be remnants of an interplanetary vehicle.

The article explores the hypothesis that the Tungus event was an atomic explosion, possibly from an interplanetary spaceship. It discusses the possibility of a Martian spaceship, referencing the orbits of Earth and Mars and their close approaches. The article highlights a Soviet astronautical expert's calculations suggesting a spaceship from Mars could have reached Earth in 1907 or 1909.

It also touches upon the observation of light signals from Mars in 1909 and the sensational talk of radio signals from Mars in the 1920s. The Pulkovo Observatory's registration of a tremendous explosion on Mars in 1956 is presented as evidence of intelligent life on the planet, possibly related to construction purposes.

The article delves into the history of the Martian spaceship theory concerning the Tungus event, referencing Alexander Kazantsev's article and the support from prominent Soviet astronomers. It discusses the aerodynamic investigations by A.Y. Monoskov, who concluded that the 'meteorite' had slowed down considerably and was likely a 'flying apparatus' or 'interplanetary spaceship.' The energy released is attributed to nuclear energy from the spaceship's fuel rather than heat.

Scientific Dispute and Future Investigation

The article frames the debate as scientific versus unscientific, with meteorite experts clinging to their theory despite counterarguments. It questions the lack of evidence for a meteorite, such as a crater or scattered pieces, and the peculiar condition of the swampy soil. The article suggests that the metal dust found might be from the outer shell of a destroyed interplanetary vehicle, fitting the Martian Spaceship Theory.

It poses the question of how to find the solution to the Tungus riddle, proposing that an investigation of radioactivity in the disaster area could reveal evidence of an atomic explosion. The presence of 'labelled atoms' and heavier isotopes would indicate such an event. The article concludes by emphasizing that the truth about UFOs cannot be kept secret forever.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent mystery of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and unexplained aerial phenomena, the challenges of investigating such events, and the skepticism or outright denial often encountered from official sources and the public. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various accounts and theories, including those that challenge conventional scientific explanations. There is a clear emphasis on the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence and technology, particularly in relation to the Tungus disaster and potential Martian visitors. The article encourages readers to consider these possibilities seriously, even when faced with official dismissals or attempts to discredit witness accounts.

Title: Flying Saucer Review
Issue: Vol. 16 No. 1
Date: January 1970
Publisher: Flying Saucer Review Publications
Country: United Kingdom

This issue of Flying Saucer Review focuses on the St. Charles, Missouri UFO case, presenting detailed witness testimonies and an analysis of the phenomena.

The St. Charles Case: Lightning Over Missouri

The main article details a series of sightings in St. Charles, Missouri, involving silent, blue-white objects that displayed remarkable flight capabilities. Witnesses, including police officers and civilians, described objects that moved at incredible speeds, executed impossible turns, hovered, and engaged in near-collision maneuvers. The objects were described as being "phenomenally superior" to any known aircraft.

Witness Accounts:

• Robert Baumbach described the objects as "totally silent" and "blue-white," unlike the "red" ball lightning he was familiar with.
• Pat Baumbach recounted seeing two objects nearly collide, with one shooting straight up and the other down.
• Detective Bishop ridiculed the airplane theory, stating the objects "weren't planes because planes don't fly like that" and noted their ability to "stop dead-any direction."
• Reubin Abbington corroborated the unusual maneuvers, stating, "I'm just calling a shot a shot."
• Schuessler and Palmberg also provided testimonies, emphasizing the objects' speed and agility.

Dismissal of Conventional Explanations:

The article systematically debunks common explanations for UFO sightings.

• The Aircraft Theory: Witnesses with extensive flight experience, including military pilots, stated the objects were far superior to any known aircraft, including Phantom jets. Their ability to change direction and speed instantaneously ruled out conventional planes.
• Nighthawks Theory: The theory that the objects were merely nighthawks was strongly refuted. Witnesses, including experienced hunters and fishermen like Baumbach, stated they could distinguish nighthawks and that the observed objects did not behave like birds. Palmberg noted that the neighborhood had breeding areas for nighthawks, making it a plausible initial explanation for locals, but Mr. Baumbach was an impartial observer.
• Reflections: Pete Bishop dismissed the idea of reflections, stating, "There was no way they could have been reflections off nighthawks."

Radar and Airport Involvement:

When Abbington inquired about radar detection, the Airport Radar reported no contact. A three-way radio hook-up between a helicopter, the radar tower, and Abbington's squad car was established, but the airport reported no radar contact. Ray Clarke was surprised that the airliner was the only thing on the radar. Baumbach, a former radar operator, suggested that a High Finder-type radar would be needed to distinguish objects that close, and a standard search radar would require a mile "differentiation" to show them. The object reportedly watched the plane from above before darting into a cloud.

UFOs As Nighthawks (Continued):

Schuessler added that radar operators often have too many dots on their screens to identify everything, and only those that call into the tower are usually identified. He noted that they "have dots on those screens all the time which they don't have the foggiest notion of what they are."

The Hostility Hypothesis:

The issue delves into the possibility of UFO hostility, contrasting it with the "Benevolent Space Brothers" theory. The article cites several examples to support the hostility hypothesis:

1. UFOs have allegedly injured innocent people, including children.
2. UFOs have caused massive blackouts by withdrawing electrical energy and disrupted electrical systems in aircraft, automobiles, and homes.
3. UFOs have harassed commercial and military aircraft, leading to deaths and injuries.
4. Alleged alien occupants have kidnapped Earthmen and subjected them to physical and mental anguish (e.g., the Betty and Barney Hill and Pascagoula fishermen cases).
5. UFO activity is often secretive and invisible, which does not suggest a friendly civilization.
6. UFOs have failed to identify themselves when challenged by Earth aircraft and have precipitated SAC bomber flights, potentially triggering nuclear holocausts.

Additional documented activities include UFOs leaving radioactive residues and being implicated in the maiming and killing of domestic animals, as well as the destruction and theft of livestock.

The article argues that while some researchers focus on getting UFOs officially recognized, it is crucial to address the possibility of UFO hostility. It criticizes the belief in benevolent UFOs, noting that contactees' messages often lack concrete advice for improving human behavior.

Dr. Wilhelm Reich's Research:

The article mentions Dr. Wilhelm Reich's research, which claimed UFOs cause world-wide drought and desert development through a toxic, radioactive substance called "DOR" (Deadly Orgone energy) emitted from their spacecraft. This substance allegedly attacks animal and mineral life by depleting oxygen and water.

The Higdon Abduction:

A brief mention is made of the Higdon abduction case, suggesting it is part of the UFO enigma.

Air Ship Scare:

Several pages are dedicated to historical accounts of "airship" sightings, primarily from 1897, across various locations in the United States. These reports describe mysterious aerial vehicles, often cigar-shaped, with bright lights, and sometimes manned by strange beings. The article details numerous sightings in California, Nebraska, Kansas, and other states, including accounts of landings and interactions with witnesses. The phenomenon was widespread, leading to public fascination and speculation about inventors and the nature of these craft.

Specific Airship Incidents:

• St. Charles, Missouri: A case involving a "flying machine" and an alleged inventor named "Professor Jourgensen" was exposed as a hoax.
• Greenville, Texas: A "C.G. Williams" reported seeing an "immense cigar-shaped vehicle" land, and interacted with three men who claimed to be experimenting with a ship powered by electricity.
• Beaumont, Texas: Farmer J. R. Ligon and his son Charley sighted an object and encountered four men, one identifying himself as "Wilson," who claimed the airship was built in Iowa and powered by electricity.
• Uvalde, Texas: Sheriff H.W. Baylor spoke with the crew of an airship, one of whom identified himself as "Wilson" from Goshen, New York.
• LeRoy, Kansas: Alexander Hamilton reported a strange experience involving an airship descending over his cow lot, with six occupants. A heifer was allegedly entangled by a cable from the ship, and the ship, along with the cow, ascended and disappeared.

The "Wilson" Figure:

Multiple accounts mention a figure named "Wilson" associated with airships, described as an inventor or pilot. His claims about the craft's propulsion varied, sometimes mentioning electricity and other times a gas with high compressibility and expansion power. The secrecy surrounding these operations led to speculation about deliberately misleading statements.

The "Airship" Phenomenon:

The article notes that by mid-May 1897, airship reports had subsided, but the phenomenon had spread to other regions. The sightings were often described as brilliant lights, sometimes with dark cigar-shaped bodies, and capable of hovering and rapid movement. The technology behind these craft, particularly their ability to hover, remained a mystery.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent mystery of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and the historical phenomenon of "airship" sightings. The editorial stance leans towards a serious investigation of these phenomena, emphasizing witness credibility and the dismissal of simplistic explanations. The article strongly supports the "hostility hypothesis" regarding UFOs, presenting evidence of negative interactions and potential dangers posed by these craft and their occupants. It challenges the notion of benevolent alien visitors and highlights the need for a rational, albeit cautious, approach to understanding UFOs, even if it leads to unpopular conclusions. The historical airship accounts serve to illustrate a long-standing pattern of unexplained aerial phenomena predating the modern UFO era.

This issue of UFO REPORT, Volume 2, Issue 10, dated October 1977, focuses on the enduring mystery of the "airship" sightings that occurred around 1897 and critically examines the scientific explanations, particularly the temperature inversion theory, that have been used to dismiss such phenomena. The magazine questions why these sophisticated aircraft were never claimed by their inventors and why no trace of them has survived.

The Airship Mystery of 1897

The article begins by discussing the airship sightings of 1897, noting that the aircraft of the period could not have possessed the power sources or lights described. It dismisses theories involving human folly and error due to the credibility of the witnesses. The text highlights that these sightings were not confined to 1897, with sporadic reports continuing into the early 20th century. Specific incidents mentioned include the Brosius family's sighting of a "gigantic ripe cucumber" object in Indiana in 1903, J. A. Jackson's observation of a 70-foot airship with a searchlight in California in 1905, and a reported landing near Mitchell, South Dakota, in 1906 where a boy conversed with a two-man crew.

Further reports came in 1909 from Great Britain and New Zealand, leading to speculation about American inventor Wallace E. Tillinghast or German spies. The airships reportedly reappeared in Britain in 1912-13 and made their final appearances in South Africa in 1914. The author laments that these events are largely absent from aviation history.

Temperature Inversion Theory Under Scrutiny

The issue then pivots to a detailed examination of the "temperature inversion theory," which is presented as a common, yet flawed, explanation for UFO sightings. The article argues that mirage effects, which are the basis of this theory, do not occur more than one degree above the observer's horizon, making them insufficient to explain objects seen higher in the sky.

The U.S. Air Force's Project Bluebook is criticized for its tendency to offer "worthless explanations" for UFO sightings. The summer of 1952 is highlighted as a key period when UFOs were sighted over Washington D.C. for several nights. At a press conference, the Air Force, through spokesmen, gave the impression that temperature inversions were the cause, a notion amplified by the press seeking a simple explanation. The article suggests that the Air Force's position was ambiguous and classified, leading the public to believe in the theory even when it was not scientifically sound.

Dr. James McDonald, a former Senior Physicist at the University of Arizona, is quoted extensively. His research indicates that the atmospheric conditions required for significant super-refraction or subrefraction are unknown in the free atmosphere. McDonald's work suggests that mirages are confined to ground-level phenomena and cannot explain objects seen high in the sky or at the zenith. The article points out that the University of Colorado's $500,000 Air Force-sponsored study of UFOs, specifically William Viezee's chapter on "Optical Mirages," also contained contradictions. While the chapter used complex scientific language, its conclusions, when simplified, suggested that mirages are not likely beyond a few degrees above the horizon, and that objects seen near the zenith are not attributable to mirage.

Frederick Menkello's report is mentioned, which also cites Dr. McDonald, emphasizing that mirage effects are restricted to lines of sight that do not depart from the horizontal by more than a few tens of minutes of arc (less than one degree). The article concludes that mirages and UFOs are not related and criticizes the Colorado report for burying this crucial point deep within its text.

Continued Skepticism and Persistent Theories

The issue notes that while most proponents of the temperature inversion theory have quieted down, Dr. Donald Menzel continued to advocate for it as recently as December 1969. Menzel suggested that free-floating lights seen at night could be explained by temperature inversions refracting distant light sources like headlights. However, the article counters that such effects would require temperature shifts of several thousand degrees, which would be physically impossible and dangerous.

The magazine asserts that the data clearly show the limitations of the temperature inversion theory, yet it predicts that similar explanations will likely be offered for future UFO sightings. The article expresses frustration with the persistence of this discredited idea.

Sports and Auto Repair Sections

In addition to the main UFO-related content, the magazine includes several pages of advertisements and listings for books on sports and hobbies, such as tennis, soccer, archery, judo, kung fu, airsports, skiing, table tennis, badminton, wrestling, bodybuilding, canoeing, swimming, diving, and volleyball. There is also a prominent advertisement for a "Do-It-Yourself & Save Money! AUTO BODY REPAIR" book.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the historical enigma of unexplained aerial phenomena, the critique of scientific explanations that dismiss credible sightings, and the perceived dishonesty or misdirection by official bodies like the U.S. Air Force. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical of conventional explanations for UFOs and critical of the scientific community's handling of the subject, particularly the overreliance on theories like temperature inversions that are demonstrably inadequate for many reported cases.