AI Magazine Summary
UFO Update No 10
AI-Generated Summary
Title: UFO UPDATE! Issue: Number 10 Date: Spring 1981 Publisher: Beyond Reality Magazine Inc. Country: USA Price: $1.75
Magazine Overview
Title: UFO UPDATE!
Issue: Number 10
Date: Spring 1981
Publisher: Beyond Reality Magazine Inc.
Country: USA
Price: $1.75
This issue of UFO UPDATE! explores various facets of the UFO mystery, promising to deliver the truth beyond sensationalism. The cover prominently features the headline "UNEARTHLY VISITORS TERRIFY RESIDENTS IN CENTRAL ILLINOIS" and highlights other intriguing articles such as "RELIGIOUS ENCOUNTERS OF THE THIRD KIND," "I HELPED ALIENS REPAIR THEIR SPACE CRAFT!," "SOVIET SCIENTISTS PROBE THE UFO MYSTERY," and "EXTRATERRESTRIALS ARE STEALING OUR MINERALS."
Articles and Features
The magazine presents a diverse range of articles, including:
- SOVIET SCIENTISTS PROBE THE UFO MYSTERY (p. 10): This article suggests that Soviet scientists are closer to solving the UFO enigma than they let on, with claims of captured extraterrestrial spacecraft and occupants being studied. It mentions Vsevolod Troitsky and a 1939 incident involving a humanoid shape found embedded in an iceberg.
- EXTRATERRESTRIALS ARE STEALING OUR MINERALS (p. 14): Explores the theory of alien mineral theft.
- I HELPED ALIENS REPAIR THEIR SPACE CRAFT! (p. 18): A personal account of assisting extraterrestrials.
- SCANNING VENUS FOR SIGNS OF LIFE (p. 22): Discusses efforts to find life on Venus.
- UNEARTHLY VISITORS TERRIFY CENTRAL ILLINOIS (p. 28): Details reports of strange encounters in Illinois.
- STRANGE HAPPENINGS ON THE MOON (p. 32): Investigates unusual events related to the Moon.
- RELIGIOUS ENCOUNTERS OF THE THIRD KIND (p. 38): Examines the intersection of UFOs and religion.
- CHARIOT OF THE GODS RETURN (p. 40): A reference to ancient astronaut theories.
- UFOS AND THE MIRACLE OF FATIMA (p. 44): Connects UFO sightings with the Fatima apparitions.
Features include an "EXCLUSIVE UFO PHOTOGRAPH" (p. 26), a "BRITISH REPORT: ENCOUNTER IN LANCASTER" (p. 43), and "SPACE PROBE" (p. 56).
Departments
The magazine includes standard departments:
- EDITORIAL (p. 4): Written by Harry Belil, the editor/publisher, this piece discusses the growing scientific interest in UFOs, citing a questionnaire that revealed significant belief among astronomers. It also touches upon the U.S. Air Force's Project Bluebook and its limitations, as well as the perspective of Dr. J. Allyn Hynek.
- READER FEEDBACK (p. 6): This section features letters from readers, including LaBron Bynum seeking contact information, G.L. Bernier offering an interpretation of "Old New Moon" and "Blue Paper," and a detailed personal account from Simone Mendez describing multiple sightings in Rockford, Illinois, during the spring of 1978.
- UFO UPDATE (p. 8): This section presents brief reports of various sightings from different locations:
- CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO.: A teenage girl was chased by a small disc, the 153rd sighting studied by a Missouri physics professor.
- GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA: Professors at Kearny State University are investigating sightings of red and green lights moving in unusual patterns.
- HOLLISTER, CALIFORNIA: A woman reported a huge, oval, brightly lit aerial craft hovering above a ridge.
- BOISE, IDAHO: A diamond-shaped object with multi-colored lights hovered over Cougar Mountain, causing temporary paralysis in residents and engine failure in vehicles.
- WEST MILFORD, N.J.: Two married couples reported sightings of four circular red lights flying in a diamond pattern, and later, dim, blobby white-grey objects.
- CADILLAC, MICHIGAN: Law enforcement agencies reported an unidentified object with green and white lights hovering in the night sky.
- OAK GROVE, MISSOURI: An oval-shaped object with a mirror-like finish, no wings or props, was seen buzzing Route AA.
- MARYVILLE, TENNESSEE: A large, round light was observed moving down a ridge.
Editorial Stance and Themes
UFO UPDATE! positions itself as a serious investigative publication, distinct from "Hollywood-UFO" magazines. It aims to uncover the truth about the UFO mystery, encouraging scientific study and presenting documented reports and personal experiences. Recurring themes include unexplained aerial phenomena, potential extraterrestrial contact, government investigations, and the intersection of UFOs with religion and ancient history. The magazine emphasizes a "no-nonsense" approach, seeking up-to-date news and avoiding mere rehash.
This issue of UFO Update focuses on a variety of UFO-related phenomena, with a particular emphasis on alleged extraterrestrial mining activities and encounters in both the Soviet Union and the United States. The magazine also includes a personal narrative of assisting aliens with spacecraft repair.
Extraterrestrials Are Stealing Our Minerals
The lead article explores the theory that UFOs are interested in Earth's mineral resources. It posits that aliens may be actively mining or seeking to exploit these resources, and that their encounters with humans, particularly lone miners, are often hostile. The article cites numerous reports and theories, including the idea that UFOs might be drawn to areas with rich mineral deposits.
The Chapin Incident
Clint and Jane Chapin, who worked a placer gold mine in California, reported a close encounter in December 1977. An egg-shaped object landed on their claim, and an energy beam stunned them into unconsciousness. Following this, they found a two-inch depression in the soil containing a lump of metal and peculiar sand, which metallurgists determined was composed of seven metals fused together under vacuum.
Steve Michalak's Encounter
Another significant case detailed is that of Steve Michalak, a prospector near Falcon Lake, Manitoba, Canada, in May 1967. He sighted two UFOs, one of which landed and emitted a purple beam and heated air, causing him severe burns and subsequent illness. Doctors found a 'foreign substance' in his blood.
Sellway Wilderness Mining Activity
The article highlights the Sellway wilderness near Spring Creek Ridge as a site of concentrated UFO activity over two decades, coinciding with heavy mining. Reports describe four UFOs tunneling and shifting earth into small openings within a large spacecraft, suggesting a mining operation. The Lorenzens, researchers from APRO, suggested this could be either mining or research, possibly collecting samples.
UFOs and Water
The magazine also touches upon the possibility of UFOs taking water from lakes and streams, noting that many craft have been seen floating on water with hoses extending into it. A case from Steep Rock Lake, Ontario, in 1950, describes a ship with two green hoses drawing water.
Soviet UFO Activity
Several incidents from the Soviet Union are reported:
- Sverdlovsk Collision: On October 31, a mysterious bright object collided with an Aeroflot liner over Sverdlovsk, causing an explosion and fire. The object was described as a red and white disc.
- Petrozavodsk Phenomenon: In September, inhabitants of Petrozavodsk witnessed a huge star flare up, move slowly, and spread out like a 'medusa,' emitting rays that created an image of pouring rain.
- Kostice Sightings: On September 23, flying saucers were seen over Kostice, including a red circular object and a black rotating object.
- Lithuanian Sighting: A British European Airways flight reported a blinding yellowish light off its starboard path over Lithuania.
- Ryazan Military Test: In October, during the testing of new Soviet military aircraft, crews spotted a luminous, pulsating white UFO that approached their lead aircraft.
Dr. Dimitriyev's Explanation
Soviet scientist Dr. M. Dimitriyev offers an alternative explanation for some sightings, attributing them to bands of chemiluminescence or cold radiation rather than UFOs. He explains that atmospheric particles can release energy as faint light, which can become visible when they condense.
I Helped Aliens From Another World Repair Their Space Craft!
This personal narrative by Rod Jackson, an electrical engineer from New Jersey, recounts an extraordinary experience. While driving home with his wife Marilyn, they witnessed a bright light that formed into a silhouette of a creature. Later that night, two such entities appeared in their home. They explained that their ship had suffered a computer malfunction, forcing them to crash-land. They communicated with Jackson, identifying him by name, and he and his wife apparently assisted them in repairing their craft. The entities described their home as being in a galactic cluster far away and their visit as temporary and friendly.
Other Mentions
The issue also briefly mentions a photograph taken by a Russian Army officer of a bright object over Sverdlovsk, and a report about the body of an alien being found embedded in an iceberg in the Arctic Sea, sent to Moscow for examination.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are the potential extraterrestrial interest in Earth's resources, particularly minerals, and the global nature of UFO phenomena, with reports from both Soviet and Western countries. The magazine appears to lean towards the belief in UFOs and extraterrestrial visitation, presenting various accounts and theories without strong skepticism, although it does include Dr. Dimitriyev's scientific explanation for some phenomena. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry into the UFO mystery, highlighting unusual events and personal testimonies.
Title: UFO UPDATE
Issue: 21
Document Type: Magazine Issue
Date: Undetermined (content from 1979 and potentially earlier)
This issue of UFO UPDATE features a blend of scientific exploration and eyewitness accounts of unexplained aerial phenomena.
Scanning Venus for Signs of Life
This section, by Peter A. Jordan, details the findings of NASA's Pioneer Venus spacecraft. For the first time, scientists have identified significant topographical features on Venus, a planet perpetually shrouded in clouds. Radar mapping has revealed continent-sized highlands, including mountains as high as Everest, and deep rift valleys. About 83% of the planet's surface has been mapped, showing similarities and differences to Earth's geology. Venus' surface features range from low-lying plains to extreme highlands, with the largest, Terra Aphrodite, being half the size of Africa, and Terra Ishtar being the size of Australia. The planet's crust is believed to be thicker than Earth's, potentially hindering plate tectonics. The article includes artist conceptions of Venus' surface, including Ishtar Terra and Maxwell Montes, the highest known mountain.
Special Report: Exclusive to UFO Update!
This section presents a photograph and eyewitness account of a UFO sighting over Dawson Creek, British Columbia. Construction worker Reg Laurenson captured an image of a large, tubular 'mother ship' that was later joined by four smaller craft which vanished into it. The object reportedly emerged from clouds, moved with extreme speed along the Alaska Highway, and performed maneuvers that defied conventional aircraft capabilities. Observers described it as dropping like a huge balloon and later climbing and zigzagging before fading away.
Unearthly Visitors Terrify Residents in Central Illinois
By William Retoff, this article chronicles a series of UFO sightings that occurred in north central Illinois during the summer and fall of 1979, breaking a period of relative quiet. The sightings spanned a triangular region encompassing Wenona, Kankakee, and Sycamore.
- July 1979:
- A retired secretary in Streator reported observing a soundless, disk-like object with unusual coloring that repeatedly appeared and disappeared.
- In the second week of July, a young couple between Wenona and Toluca saw a 'flare in the sky.'
- In the third week of July, Lonnie Davis near Wenona witnessed an airborne occurrence resembling an 'explosion.'
- On July 27th, Jim Melvin, Alice, and Pattie Ong saw a 'bright flash' above a bean field south of Wenona.
- On July 28th, Pattie Ong reported a large, pyramid-shaped object with lights moved soundlessly towards her at low altitude before stopping, blinking, and descending into a field. She described it as 'half-block long' and not saucer-shaped, but like a diamond or pyramid.
- At the end of July, the same retired secretary from Streator saw an oblong object with red lights moving slowly from south to north.
- August 1979:
- On August 29-30, Charles A. Weeden Jr. near Sycamore observed a stationary, multi-colored light that changed colors, dropped, moved laterally at high speed, and appeared to prepare for landing. Authorities were notified.
The article notes that these events largely went unreported by local media, and many witnesses remained unaware of the broader UFO escalation occurring in the region. The descriptions often involve silent, brilliant, and unusually shaped objects.
First Encounter Narrative
An unnamed narrator recounts an encounter with extraterrestrial beings who claim their ship's computer has malfunctioned. They explain the concept of 'portals' or 'short cuts' in space. The beings offer to transport the narrator and his wife, Marilyn, aboard their spacecraft to help repair the computer. The narrator describes a disorienting experience of being lifted from his bed and finding himself on the alien craft, which is described as having a glass-like floor and spotlessly clean, light-filled control room. He is shown a device that resembles a CB unit component, which the aliens explain is crucial for manipulating their craft through mind manipulation.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently focuses on UFO sightings, alien encounters, and the potential for extraterrestrial intelligence. The editorial stance appears to be one of open investigation into these phenomena, presenting witness testimonies and scientific findings (like those from the Pioneer Venus mission) side-by-side. There is a clear interest in documenting specific incidents and providing detailed accounts from individuals who claim to have experienced direct contact or observed unexplained aerial phenomena. The inclusion of scientific data on Venus suggests an attempt to bridge the gap between conventional science and the more speculative topics of UFOlogy.
This issue of UFO Update, identified as issue number 31, focuses on two primary areas: recent terrestrial UFO sightings and unexplained phenomena observed on the Moon. The magazine presents a collection of eyewitness accounts and scientific observations, exploring the possibility of extraterrestrial activity and the nature of anomalous aerial and lunar events.
Terrestrial UFO Sightings
The issue begins with reports of UFO sightings in Illinois. One account details a "flashing pyramid-like object" observed near Wenona, described as a "dome-shaped object" glowing bright orange and moving slowly at a high altitude. Policewoman Berna VanVlerah and Charles Weeden were among the witnesses.
Another incident occurred approximately 60 miles southeast of Sycamore, where citizens reported a "glowing, domed vehicle" hovering over their community. The Kankakee police and radio station WKAN received multiple calls about this sighting.
In mid-September, a "pencil-like form" was seen sweeping over Streator. Ex-aircraft mechanic John Andrew Rorke described it as a "white thing" moving slowly, unlike any jet stream or airplane.
On October 31st, at least 10 triangular unidentified flying objects were reported to have coasted at low altitude two miles east of Wenona for half an hour.
Strange Things Happening on the Moon
The main feature of this issue, "STRANGE THINGS ARE HAPPENING ON THE MOON" by William Retoff, details unusual observations made during the Apollo missions, particularly Apollo 10.
On May 21, 1969, Lunar Module Pilot Gene Cernan reported seeing a luminescence in the Aristarchus Crater, describing it as glowing as if "lit by radioactivity" or like "vagrant sunbeams." This observation prompted Houston to ask the astronauts to investigate.
Professional and part-time astronomers, part of the Lunar International Observers Network (LION), had previously sighted "transient events" in the Aristarchus Crater in the days leading up to the Apollo 10 launch. These events included unexplained lights.
The astronauts, including Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Mike Collins, later observed an area in Aristarchus that was "considerably more illuminated than the surrounding area," with a slight amount of fluorescence. They described it as an area that "seems to have a slight amount of fluorescence to it" and noted that one wall of the crater appeared more illuminated than others.
Theories and Explanations
The magazine explores various theories to explain these lunar phenomena. One prominent theory attributes the glows to volcanism, citing historical observations of volcanic activity and gas emissions from lunar craters like Alphonsus and Aristarchus. Dr. Nikolai A. Kozyrev obtained spectrograms of gas emissions from Aristarchus in 1958.
Another hypothesis suggests high-energy particle bombardment from space, causing the Moon's surface to become luminescent due to cosmic radiation. This theory updates earlier ideas about "fluorescent effects" possibly caused by electronic bombardment.
Scientists also considered the Earth-Moon tidal system, suggesting that powerful gravitational forces could trigger volcanic activity or moonquakes. The periodic heaving of the lunar surface due to tidal forces might squeeze gas from stress points.
Religious Encounters and UFOs
A separate article, "RELIGIOUS ENCOUNTERS OF THE THIRD KIND" by Brent Raynes, draws parallels between UFO experiences and religious apparitions. Citing John Keel, the article posits that "the contactee experience is identical to religious apparition phenomena and probably is caused by the same factors."
Raynes shares his own interviews and findings, noting that many UFO witnesses describe experiences that share characteristics with religious phenomena. The article discusses the concept of "religious experiences" and how they might relate to UFO encounters, suggesting a common underlying psychological or perceptual mechanism.
Dr. J. Allen Hynek, director of the Center for UFO Studies, is mentioned for his classification of UFO encounters and his book "The UFO Experience." The article also references the work of psychiatrist Dr. Carl G. Jung, who viewed UFOs as "symbolic rumours" ushering in a new age, and writer Brad Steiger, who terms the UFO experience a "transformation symbol."
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
This issue of UFO Update consistently explores the unexplained, whether in the skies above Earth or on the lunar surface. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various sightings and scientific observations while also delving into speculative theories about extraterrestrial intelligence and the nature of consciousness. The magazine highlights the intersection of scientific investigation (like the Apollo missions and astronomical observations) with anecdotal eyewitness testimony, suggesting that "something is happening" that defies conventional explanation. The comparison between UFO encounters and religious experiences indicates a broader interest in the psychological and cultural dimensions of these phenomena.
This issue of UFO Update, titled 'Chariots of the Gods Return,' delves into the complex relationship between UFO sightings, psychic phenomena, and religious experiences. The cover story by Brent Raynes introduces the idea that UFO encounters can trigger inexplicable psychic events, such as vivid dreams, precognitive abilities, and disturbances in the home.
UFO Encounters and Psychic Phenomena
The magazine presents several case studies illustrating this connection. One account from Pennsylvania describes two housewives who, after witnessing a UFO, began experiencing strange dreams about a blond-haired man and precognitive visions of death. They also reported poltergeist-like disturbances, leading them to fear an 'evil' presence.
Another section highlights the experiences of Mrs. Shirley Fickett, who believes UFOs, the Bible, and psychic phenomena are interconnected. She describes being 'trained' by an alien intelligence for 'astral projection' and encountering an unusual entity in her bedroom.
Mrs. Jacque Booth recounts her UFO experience in Ohio, where a beam of light from a circular object focused on her head, leading to a sense of inner calmness. In the months following, she experienced psychic manifestations and involuntary out-of-body projections, along with a renewed religious awareness.
David Tobbell and his wife Lesley share their encounter with a massive, dome-shaped UFO near Morecambe, UK. This sighting was followed by psychic manifestations, including locked doors opening inexplicably and their son experiencing out-of-body projections.
Jerome Henderson's article, 'Encounter in Lancaster,' discusses how UFOs might be linked to psychic phenomena. He emphasizes the importance of objective investigation and open-mindedness, suggesting that many psychic episodes are overlooked by traditional UFO researchers.
The Miracle of Fatima
Karl K. Korf's article, 'UFOs and the Miracle of Fatima,' explores the alleged extraterrestrial encounter in Fatima, Portugal, in 1917. The story details how three children, Lucia Abobora, Francisco Marto, and Jacinta Marto, witnessed a series of apparitions. Initially, they saw a 'startling white glowing figure,' followed by a 'transparent young man' who identified himself as 'the Angel of Peace.'
The most significant event occurred on May 13, 1917, when the children saw a ball of light containing the image of a woman made of bright white light. This entity promised to return and, on October 13, 1917, a crowd of 50,000 people witnessed a 'colossal silver disk' in the sky, described as the apparent size of the sun, which emitted colors from the visible light spectrum and performed aerial maneuvers.
The article notes that the events were documented by church officials and public figures, and some consider it strong evidence for the existence of flying saucers. It also mentions that two of the children, Francisco and Jacinta Marto, died soon after, having prophesied their own deaths.
Personal UFO Experience
An article titled 'I Helped Aliens From Another World' recounts a personal experience where the narrator, Rod, claims to have assisted alien beings by providing a filament for their spacecraft. He describes being taken aboard their craft with his wife, Marilyn, and experiencing a journey through 'an eerie void of darkness.' The experience concluded with them back in their bed, and the next morning, Marilyn recalled it as a dream.
OMNI-COSMICS Advertisement
The issue includes a prominent advertisement for 'OMNI-COSMICS,' a product or system promoted by Ann Fisher, described as a 'Miracle Power' that can help individuals gain wealth, control thoughts, achieve protection, and heal illness. The advertisement features testimonials of people who allegedly won lotteries, received promotions, and experienced miraculous healing through OMNI-COSMICS.
The Surface of Venus Revealed
A scientific article, 'The Surface of Venus Revealed,' discusses findings from space probes about the planet's geology. It describes Venus' tectonic plates, highland regions like Ishtar Terra and Aphrodite Terra, and features such as Maxwell Montes, the highest point on Venus. The article contrasts Venus' surface with Earth's, noting the absence of mid-ocean ridges and the prevalence of impact craters on Venus. It also mentions volcanic features like Beta Regio and discusses the planet's plains and rift valleys.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
This issue of UFO Update consistently explores the intersection of the unexplained, particularly UFO phenomena, with spiritual, psychic, and religious dimensions. The editorial stance appears to favor an open-minded approach to these subjects, encouraging readers to consider unconventional explanations and to investigate phenomena objectively. There is a recurring theme that conventional scientific or UFOlogical frameworks may be too narrow to encompass the full spectrum of reported experiences, especially those involving psychic or spiritual elements. The inclusion of both personal testimonies and historical accounts, alongside scientific information about Venus, suggests an effort to bridge different realms of inquiry.
This issue of UFO UPDATE, dated 1977, delves into a variety of paranormal and extraterrestrial topics, with a prominent focus on 'The Magic Power of Witchcraft' on its cover. The magazine explores the purported benefits of witchcraft for personal gain, including wealth, love, and protection, alongside detailed accounts of UFO sightings and unexplained phenomena.
The Magic Power of Witchcraft
The lead article, 'THE MAGIC POWER OF WITCHCRAFT,' by Gavin and Yvonne Frost, authors associated with the Church of Wicca, presents witchcraft as a means to achieve rapid success in various aspects of life. It promises methods for acquiring wealth, finding love, gaining power over others, and even performing healing. The article highlights specific techniques such as the 'Witch's Money Jar' for generating cash, the 'Witch's Money Magnet' to multiply money, and the 'Black Mirror' for scrying into the future or past. The authors, Gavin Frost and Yvonne Frost, are introduced as prominent figures in the Church of Wicca, with Gavin Frost being an Archbishop and Yvonne Frost a Bishop. They claim that witchcraft is a natural power, not evil, and that thousands of ordinary people are already using it.
The article details how witchcraft can be used for personal gain, such as getting paid without working, obtaining free clothes and travel, and living a luxurious lifestyle. It also emphasizes the healing capabilities of witchcraft, with the assertion that 'In our experience we have not found a single incurable disease!' Testimonials are provided, including the case of Andy M. who allegedly dissolved gallstones, and a woman who recovered from polio and arthritis. The ease of use is stressed, with an example of a 4-year-old girl successfully using a healing method.
A promotional offer is included for a free 'Witches Protection Amulet' with the purchase of 'The Magic Power of Witchcraft' book, which is priced at $10.95. The book itself is described as containing secrets that have been suppressed by those in power.
UFO Sightings and Encounters
The issue features several accounts of UFO sightings. One detailed report, 'UNEARTHLY VISITORS TERRIFY CENTRAL ILLINOIS,' describes an incident on the night of December 13 involving witnesses Pattie Ong and Perry Lombardi. They observed a group of shining, silent, dome-shaped objects hovering in formation, moving deliberately and slowly, and scanning the area. Perry Lombardi, a rock musician from Los Angeles, expressed his certainty that these were not airplanes or helicopters, estimating their height at 500 to 1,000 feet. The objects were described as having red, blue, and white revolving lights and appeared to be searching for something.
Another section, 'STRANGE HAPPENINGS ON THE MOON,' discusses several incidents related to space exploration. It recounts an event on April 21, 1972, where Apollo 16 Command Module Pilot Thomas Mattingly reported seeing a 'bright flash' or a fast-moving object beyond the horizon. Dr. Farouk El-Baz, a member of the Project Apollo photo-geology group, suggested it was a large object, not a known spacecraft, and that it moved too fast to be explained by current technology. Later, on December 10, 1972, Apollo 17 LM Pilot Harrison Schmitt reported seeing a 'little flash - a pinpoint of light' near Grimaldi Crater. These events are explored in the context of potential alien intelligence or unexplained phenomena on the Moon.
Extraterrestrials and the Moon
The article 'EXTRATERRESTRIALS ARE MINING OUR MINERALS' details a sighting on the Braden River where a dome-shaped object with a tube extending into the water was observed. The object appeared to be collecting rocks and earth, leading to speculation that it was engaged in prospecting or mining. Samples of rocks collected from the incident were found to be similar to those produced by a thermofusion drill, suggesting a possible link between UFO technology and advanced mining techniques. The article notes that such activities are often associated with electromagnetic effects and questions the purpose behind this alleged extraterrestrial activity.
Further exploration of lunar anomalies includes discussions of 'pseudo-shadows' observed by Professor William Pickering and color changes on the Moon's surface noted by F. Kaiser. The issue also touches upon the difficulty of simulating lunar conditions in labs and the skepticism surrounding theories of alien intelligence on the Moon.
Other Content
The magazine also includes advertisements for a 'BODY TAPER-TRIM SHIRT' and 'SOLID BRONZE PROFESSIONAL WALLET BADGES,' as well as a coupon for changing one's address for UFO UPDATE subscriptions. There is also an advertisement for building a working laser pistol. The editors express interest in reader submissions about paranormal experiences, ESP, strange mysteries, time and space theories, reincarnation, UFO encounters, self-improvement, hauntings, and precognition.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are witchcraft and its purported powers, UFO sightings and encounters, and unexplained phenomena related to space exploration, particularly concerning the Moon. The editorial stance appears to be open to exploring unconventional theories and experiences, as evidenced by the inclusion of witchcraft as a legitimate topic alongside UFO reports and the invitation for reader submissions on a wide range of paranormal subjects. The magazine seems to embrace a perspective that challenges conventional scientific explanations and explores the more mysterious aspects of existence.
Title: UFO UPDATE
Issue: 61
Date: 1980
Publisher: That Special Look, Inc.
This issue of UFO Update presents a diverse range of topics, blending the mystical with the extraterrestrial, and also touching upon self-defense and entrepreneurial opportunities. The cover prominently features a sensationalized approach to witchcraft, promising readers the ability to harness magical powers for personal gain, including love, protection, and wealth. This is juxtaposed with serious reporting on UFO phenomena, including a significant classified Soviet report and eyewitness accounts from various locations.
Witchcraft and Personal Power
The lead article, "How To Unleash The Magical Powers Of Witchcraft!", is a bold advertisement for a program that claims to offer step-by-step guides to witchcraft techniques. It promises to help readers ward off evil, attract lovers, gain wealth, achieve instant popularity, and even influence others. The program is described as a comprehensive guide combining ancient and modern techniques, offering magic potions for hair growth and methods to influence decisions. It suggests that readers can "shape your own destiny" and "take from life with force what you know you deserve." The article also mentions techniques for astral projection, allowing travel to the future and alien worlds. It emphasizes that witchcraft can address virtually any desire, from love and money to health and power, making it "easy as ABC."
An accompanying advertisement offers a "FREE Aurora Pendant $7.50 value Talisman" with the purchase of "The Force of Witchcraft" book for $9.95 plus shipping. A "MONEY BACK GUARANTEE" is offered, allowing returns within 30 days for a full refund.
Soviet UFO Investigation
A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to UFO research in the Soviet Union. An article titled "SOVIET SCIENTISTS PROBE THE UFO MYSTERY" details findings from a classified report smuggled out of the Soviet Academy of Sciences. This report, based on an analysis of 250 verified sightings since 1960, suggests that spacecraft entering our system are controlled by intelligent beings. Soviet scientists, including Dr. Dimitriyev and Vsevolod Troitsky, are quoted discussing chemiluminescence as a potential explanation for UFO lights and the possibility of extraterrestrial communication. The report is part of an ongoing Soviet program called SETI (Search For Extraterrestrial Intelligence). The article notes that unidentified sources at the Institute of Medico Biological Problems in the U.S.S.R. maintain that mysterious objects have been detected by unmanned Soviet satellites, with Russian scientists convinced that "something is out there."
Stanton T. Friedman, a nuclear physicist and UFO expert, is quoted stating that while many sightings can be explained by atmospheric phenomena, 20 to 25 percent remain unexplained. The article also highlights the widespread public interest in UFOs and extraterrestrial life within the Soviet Union, with many believing American astronauts encountered aliens on the moon.
Eyewitness Accounts of UFO Sightings
The magazine includes several firsthand accounts of UFO sightings:
- Tennessee Sighting: A witness named Mrs. Garner described seeing a UFO in a field that had a "dome at its top, kind of round" with "orange-red color like lights inside windows." The object flickered out. She recalled a similar sighting years earlier.
- North Cheshire, England: Mrs. Dorothy Harrison reported seeing a "flat and oblong" object with "a lot of white lights on it" from a train. She described it as looking like an "old iron bedstead with bars."
- St. Helens, England: Kenneth Graham witnessed a "dull silver-colored sphere" traveling low in the sky. The object moved slowly at first, then sped off at great speed.
- Paris, France: Roland Varin reported hearing a strange noise and experiencing vibrations. Police received numerous calls about similar noises and bright lights in the sky that moved in unusual directions.
The "Forbidden" Black Box and Psychic Abilities
Another article, "This book was FORBIDDEN!", promotes a publication about a "mystifying little black box" that allegedly grants psychic abilities. The article claims that two leading psychic research institutes tried to suppress this information because an electronic ESP machine was discovered that they didn't want made available to the public. The author claims to have personally benefited from such a device, gaining psychic abilities and a new understanding of the universe. The article provides instructions on how to build a similar device for approximately $30 and offers a book with detailed directions and plans for the Drown, Hieronymus, and De La Warr machines for $14.95.
Personal Defense and Business Opportunities
A full-page advertisement promotes "KIYOGA - THE STEEL COBRA™", a telescopic steel coil whip described as a non-lethal self-defense weapon that can disarm attackers. It claims to be legal in New York, even with strict weapon laws, and offers a "NO-RISK 90-DAY FREE TRIAL."
Another advertisement, from B.L. Mellinger, offers a "FREE REPORT" on how to start a profitable "HOME IMPORT BUSINESS." It highlights the potential to buy 24,221 imports "Below Wholesale" and sell them for profit. The offer includes a free sample import and details on how to deal directly with international suppliers.
Reader Feedback and Editorial Notes
The "READER FEEDBACK" section includes a letter from William G. Pearce, an amateur radio operator, who suggests that amateur radio operators could play a significant role in UFO observation and communication due to their extensive network and equipment. He points out that merchant ship radar systems may not detect airborne objects like UFOs.
Another letter questions an illustration of an alien space colony, to which the editor responds that the art is an artist's concept, often supplied by NASA, to make the magazine visually engaging.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are the potential for extraordinary personal power (through witchcraft and psychic devices), the reality of extraterrestrial intelligence and UFOs (supported by Soviet research and eyewitness accounts), and practical advice on self-defense and entrepreneurship. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into controversial subjects, aiming to provide readers with information that may be considered fringe or suppressed by mainstream institutions. The magazine actively promotes products and services related to these themes, suggesting a commercial interest in capitalizing on public fascination with the unexplained and the desire for self-improvement and security.