UFOdata Magazine - Issue 09 - may-jun-2007

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO DATA MAGAZINE, dated May-June 2007, is the "60th Anniversary Issue" celebrating six decades of modern ufology, with a particular focus on the 1947 Roswell Incident and Kenneth Arnold's sighting that coined the term 'Flying Saucer'. The magazine promises "60 years of research" within its 68 pages.

Editor's Note

Editor Russel Callaghan expresses gratitude for the magazine's growth and highlights the significance of July 2007 as the 60th anniversary of the birth of modern ufology. He references Kenneth Arnold's sighting and the Roswell Incident as pivotal events that brought UFOs and aliens into public discourse. Callaghan also mentions researchers Adam Hart-Davies and Dr. Susan Blackmore, known for their work on historical and abduction cases, respectively.

Contents and Lead Stories

The contents page outlines several key articles. UFO DATA has compiled research on Roswell, with articles on pages 13, 22, 32, 48, 52, and 55. Regular contributor Malcolm Robinson discusses "strange accounts of suspected military/alien abduction" on page 17. The lead story on page 3 details an F-15 encounter with a UFO over the UK, including an investigation into an audio recording of the event and official denials. The magazine boasts "over 68 UFO packed pages."

F-15 Encounter UFO over UK

This article investigates an incident from early March 2007 where two United States Air Force (USAF) F-15 fighter jets from RAF Lakenheath were tasked by London Military Air Traffic Control to investigate an unidentified object detected on radar. The object was initially picked up at three to four thousand feet and later at seventeen thousand feet, exhibiting speeds varying from a dead stop to eighty knots, and making passes above and below the jets. The audio recording of the pilots' conversation is transcribed, revealing their confusion and attempts to identify the object, which they described as "like a rock" and not a bird. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) and RAF Lakenheath were contacted for information via the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), but the MoD initially stated they had no record of London Military ATC tasking aircraft for such an investigation. However, they later acknowledged that two USAF aircraft spotted an object on their radar during a routine training flight and investigated it on their own initiative, believing it to be no bigger than a football and possibly from a weather balloon. The article questions this explanation, noting the object's ability to ascend rapidly and its radar signature. Chris Rolfe, involved in the investigation, also contacted UFO researcher Don Berliner in the US for a FOIA request, which yielded a response from the 48th Fighter Wing stating no records were found. The article also touches upon other reports from the same day, including an aircraft executing unusual manoeuvres over Norfolk and 'flaming debris' in Scotland, questioning if these are related.

Other Investigations and Explanations

Further details emerge regarding the F-15 incident. A member of the Above Top Secret forum, 'PW229', claims to have communications expertise and identified the aircraft as F-15E Eagles, stating their APG-70 radar cannot auto-lock onto a balloon and can recognise various aircraft types. 'PW229' also suggested one of the voices in the recording might be from a NATO-E3 AWACS aircraft, which tracked unusual manoeuvres, including rapid acceleration and deceleration. The article acknowledges the unreliability of forum information but notes its interest. Another forum member, 'USAF1N051', confirmed the radio terminology was accurate for pilots. The Meteorological Office in Exeter, Devon, responded to an inquiry about weather balloons, stating their balloons are larger than a football at altitude and made of translucent latex, suggesting the sighting was unlikely to be a weather balloon. NATS (National Air Traffic Services) stated that while controlled airspace requires active transponders, open airspace does not, and hot air balloons are generally not detected by ATC radar. Despite the official explanations, the article maintains an investigative stance, with UFOData Magazine and UFOMEK continuing to look into the case.

Historical UFO Cases

The magazine delves into several historical UFO incidents:

• Aurora, Texas (April 19, 1897): An 'airship' reportedly crashed near Aurora, scattering debris. The pilot was described as not being from this world, and a military officer suggested the victim was from Mars. Wreckage was collected and disposed of, and a memorial now exists in the town.
• Benkelman, Nebraska (June 6, 1884): A group of herdsmen witnessed something crash, emitting intense heat and light. The object was described as having 'cog-wheels' and pieces of machinery, with fragments of a wheel and a propeller-like blade. A rainstorm reportedly melted the object, described as a 50-60 feet long, 12 feet wide cylinder.
• Spitsbergen, Norway (May 1946 & June 1952): In 1946, General James Doolittle allegedly investigated wreckage and possibly bodies from a crash, with the craft reportedly having Russian symbols. In June 1952, a disc-shaped craft, about 150 feet in diameter, crashed, causing radio difficulties for Norwegian fighter jets. A radar direction finder with a plutonium core was found on board.
• Eureka, Utah & Las Vegas, Nevada (April 18, 1962): An object was tracked across the US, described as a brilliant yellow flame. It crashed near Eureka, Utah, interrupting electricity, then took off again and headed towards Las Vegas. Witnesses insisted it was a craft from another world, not a meteor.
• Pacific Ocean (1973): A US naval destroyer encountered a UFO, fired a missile, and the craft crashed and sank. The Glomar Explorer was assigned to retrieve the object, described as 'silvery blue and shimmering' with a flange but no windows.
• Baluchistan, Pakistan (August 15-27, 2000): Unidentified objects were sighted over several nights. An official statement noted their technical peculiarities, ruling out missiles. Some reports suggested an object landed, and wreckage was recovered.
• Bahia, Brazil (November 20-21, 2006): A disc-shaped object was photographed on a flat-bed truck, escorted by police, and was being transported. The object's size necessitated it driving in the middle of the road.

Quotes and Testimonials

The issue includes quotes from historical figures and witnesses. Frank Joyce, an announcer from KGFL Radio, recounts conversations with Mac Brazel regarding the Roswell wreckage and a subsequent conversation where Brazel indicated the 'little green men' weren't actually green. Frankie Rowe, daughter of a Roswell fireman, shares a chilling account of being warned against speaking about the incident. Dr. David Clarke suggests the weather balloon explanation for the F-15 incident is plausible but encourages further investigation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently highlights the challenges in obtaining official information regarding UFO sightings, particularly from military and government bodies, often citing FOIA requests and bureaucratic responses. There's a recurring theme of official explanations (like weather balloons) being insufficient or contradicted by witness testimony and physical evidence. The editorial stance appears to be one of persistent investigation and skepticism towards official denials, encouraging readers to question and seek the truth behind unexplained aerial phenomena. The emphasis on historical cases alongside contemporary events underscores a belief in the long-standing nature of the UFO phenomenon.

This issue of UFO DATA, dated June, focuses on the UK's secret involvement in UFO investigations and related phenomena. The cover story, 'We're not being secretive!', by Robbie Graham, details his attempts to elicit information about UFOs from a Ministry of Defence department known as DI55. The magazine also features a report on a significant 1958 radar incident over the Mediterranean, an in-depth look at the MILAB (Military Mind Control and Alien Abduction) phenomenon, and coverage of the 60th anniversary of the Roswell Incident and its associated festival.

Conversations with DI55

Robbie Graham recounts his experiences in 1999 trying to obtain information on UFO sightings from DI55. His initial call to a woman who seemed nervous and claimed ignorance was followed by a call to a man who, while initially evasive, eventually hinted at the MoD's interest in 'aircraft' that might be 'peculiar'. Graham notes that time has revealed these assertions to be false, as the MoD later admitted DI55's long-standing involvement in UFO reports and the extensive Project Condign investigation into Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAPs) between 1996 and 2000.

1958 Radar Systems Track a U.F.O. Flying Over the Mediterranean Area

This section details a significant incident from 1958 where radar systems at three RAF bases tracked an unidentified object over the Mediterranean Sea. The object was observed moving at speeds up to 18,000 mph, far exceeding the capabilities of contemporary aircraft. The object executed a sharp 90-degree turn towards Cyprus without any reduction in speed, indicating extreme G-forces. Two QRA (Quick Reaction Alert) Hawker Hunter jet fighters were scrambled but could not intercept it. The object then rapidly ascended from 38,000 feet to nearly 60,000 feet. The report emphasizes the advanced capabilities of the object compared to 1950s technology and even modern aviation.

Roswell UFO Festival

The magazine highlights the upcoming 60th anniversary of the 1947 Roswell Incident and the associated Roswell UFO Festival in New Mexico, scheduled for July 5-8, 2007. The festival is described as a major event that draws significant international attention, doubling the population of Roswell during the celebration. It features numerous speakers, including researchers and figures from popular culture like Dean Haglund ('Langley' from The X-Files). Activities include 'UFO-Spotting' excursions, fireworks, musical performances, and various other attractions, aiming to celebrate the enduring mystery of the Roswell Incident.

MILABS (Military Mind Control And Alien Abduction)

Written by Malcolm Robinson, this section critically examines the book 'MILABS' by Dr Helmut Lammer and Marion Lammer. The authors propose that many UFO abductions are not extraterrestrial in origin but are orchestrated by human military agencies. These agencies allegedly abduct individuals to extract information or technology, or to implant false memories to conceal secret black-budget projects involving advanced stealth technology. The book presents numerous cases where abductees recall being interrogated by humans in military settings, subjected to experiments, and seeing strange craft and genetically-altered beings in underground facilities. The authors suggest that the military's interest may stem from developing brain implants, virtual reality, cloaking devices, and genetic research, potentially for a hybrid species.

Controlled Experiments on Humans Without Consent, An Infringement of Human Rights

This part of the MILAB discussion highlights the Lammers' findings on covert human experimentation conducted by military and government agencies. It cites instances of experiments involving mind control, nerve gas, LSD, and other biological agents, drawing parallels to historical atrocities. The article mentions a panel appointed by the Clinton administration that found evidence of hundreds of government-backed bio-medical experiments on humans between 1944 and 1975. It also touches upon the phenomenon of implants found in abductees, questioning their purpose and suggesting a possible military involvement in their placement.

Strange object sighted over Bedfordshire...

This is a witness report from Ampthill, Bedfordshire, describing a sighting in November 2006. The witness, a scientific person, observed a large green ball of fire with a green tail moving rapidly towards the ground. A second, smaller object was also seen. Both objects disappeared quickly and silently. The witness speculates it might have been a meteor or an exotic firework, but notes its unusual speed and maneuverability.

UFO & Paranormal Conference

An advertisement for a UFO & Paranormal Conference presented by LAPIS (Lancashire Anomalous Phenomena Investigation Society) is included. The event features speakers like Alan Murdie, Jon Downes, Joe McGonagle, and Larry Warren, covering topics such as UFOs, cryptozoology, and the Rendlesham Incident. It is scheduled for Saturday, June 16, 2007, at the YMCA in St Annes, Lancashire.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around government secrecy regarding UFOs, the potential for military involvement in abduction scenarios (MILABs), and the enduring mystery of the Roswell Incident. The magazine adopts a critical stance towards official explanations, highlighting discrepancies between government statements and reported evidence. There is a strong emphasis on the need for transparency and the importance of UFOlogists and researchers in uncovering the truth. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards official narratives and a belief that significant information about UFO phenomena is being deliberately withheld from the public.

This issue of UFO DATA, published in 2006, focuses on the photographic evidence related to the Roswell incident, specifically examining the photographs taken at Fort Worth Army Air Field in July 1947. The magazine presents research that challenges the official explanation of the debris as a weather balloon, suggesting potential image alteration and military involvement.

The Implant Phenomenon and Military Involvement

The article begins by discussing neuroscientist Dr. Jose Delgado's invention of the 'stimoceiver,' an electrode capable of receiving and transmitting electronic signals. It speculates that this technology has been modified and potentially used by military intelligence for secret projects, possibly masked by the 'alien' abduction cover story. The CIA's interest in expanding implant studies, as revealed in a declassified 1960s document, is highlighted. The author expresses concern about the deceitful actions of elected officials and military agencies in their pursuit of information regarding UFO phenomena.

The Fort Worth Photographs: A Deep Dive

The core of the issue is an in-depth analysis of the photographs taken at Fort Worth Army Air Field on July 8th, 1947. Neil Morris, a laboratory technician and researcher, presents his findings from the 'The Roswell Photographic Interpretation Team' (RPIT). He argues that the debris shown in the photographs, claimed by the USAAF to be from a weather balloon and ML307 radar reflector, does not match the official explanation. Morris suggests that the photographs may have been taken at different times and possibly by different cameras, contradicting the accepted narrative of a single press conference.

Negatives Analysis and Image Alteration

Morris details the analysis of the surviving photographic negatives, using 3D computer modeling to examine lens characteristics. He concludes that the Jesse Marcel photographs could not have been taken with the same lens as the Ramey/DuBose images, suggesting multiple photo sessions or even different cameras. Furthermore, the analysis of a "pre-1997" Bettmann version of a photograph reveals significant differences, with 'thick' edges present in the older version but absent in the current print. This leads to the suspicion of artificial airbrushing or other forms of image alteration.

The MOGUL Project Connection

The article also explores the connection to the MOGUL project, a classified US military initiative to detect Soviet atomic bomb tests. While the debris was claimed to be from this project, the analysis of the photographs reveals anomalies and pieces that do not align with standard 1940s military components expected from MOGUL equipment.

Timeline and Discrepancies

Morris proposes a revised timeline for the events surrounding the photographs, suggesting that the Star Telegram newspaper may have obtained the Marcel photographs from an "outside" source, possibly linking them to a news copy that identified Maj. Marcel of Houma, Louisiana, as the debris retriever. The article points out that the military personnel involved, including General Ramey and Major Marcel, had their own accounts that sometimes contradicted the official story or were influenced by orders not to speak to the press.

Conclusion and Future Implications

Morris concludes that the evidence points towards the possibility of the images being altered or a photo-montage rather than an original, unaltered depiction of the Roswell debris. He acknowledges the difficulty in definitively proving image alteration, especially if the original materials are held in secret government archives. The article leaves the reader to draw their own conclusions based on the presented evidence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the questioning of official narratives surrounding UFO events, the potential for military cover-ups and deception, and the critical analysis of photographic evidence. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards official explanations and a strong belief in the need for transparency and further investigation into the Roswell incident and related phenomena. The author, Malcolm Robinson, expresses deep concern about the abuse of trust by those in power and the implications for humanity.

This special issue of UFODATA, dated October 2007, focuses on significant UFO incidents and research, featuring computer art by Peter Martin as the theme for the 'Roswell 60' conference. The issue covers the Roswell incident, the Warminster Mystery, and the Thousand Oaks Incident.

The Roswell Incident and Document Scrutiny

The issue critically examines the Roswell UFO crash case, highlighting the work of researchers like Dr. Kevin Randle. It discusses the testimony of witnesses who have withstood scrutiny over the years, including Major Jesse Marcel, Major Edwin Easley, Master Sergeant Bill Rickett, Major Patrick Saunders, and Brigadier General Thomas DuBose. These individuals reportedly confirmed aspects of the crash and the subsequent cover-up.

The article questions the authenticity of documents like the Eisenhower Briefing and the MJ-12 papers. Document examiner Peter Tytell is cited as finding the Truman memo accompanying the briefing to be a fake, based on signature analysis and the unusual positioning of the 'T' in Truman's signature. The lack of provenance for these documents is emphasized, and the suggestion that they might have been fabricated is raised.

The Santilli Alien Autopsy Film

Ray Santilli's alien autopsy film is also addressed, with Santilli himself admitting in 2006 that the film presented to the world was a recreation. The article points out inconsistencies, such as the cameraman's supposed English accent in a transcript and later changes to the text, further casting doubt on its authenticity.

Project Mogul and the Air Force Explanation

The US Air Force's explanation of the Roswell crash as being the result of Project Mogul is discussed. It is noted that the explanation was reportedly suggested by UFO researchers. The article highlights that Mogul Flight No. 4, launched on June 4, 1947, is the only unaccounted-for balloon launch around that time. However, it questions how deflated balloon envelopes alone could account for the debris found, especially if radar reflectors were removed. The Air Force's investigation is criticized for interviewing only a limited number of people and for not considering all available evidence, such as witness testimonies or audio/video tapes.

Witness Testimony and Cover-up Claims

Several individuals with documented connections to the Roswell incident are presented as corroborating the extraterrestrial nature of the event. Brigadier General Arthur Exon believed the crash was extraterrestrial and that debris was studied at Wright-Patterson, with bodies found separately from the craft. Major Edwin Easley, when asked if the investigation was on the right path regarding an extraterrestrial event, reportedly replied, "That's not the wrong path." Patrick Saunders' child revealed that her father bragged about covering up the "paper trail" of the clean-up. Thomas DuBose, Chief of Staff to General Ramey, stated that the balloon explanation was a cover story.

The Warminster Mystery

The issue then shifts to the Warminster Mystery, a series of UFO sightings in Warminster, UK. Arthur Shuttlewood's early encounters with UFO literature as a child are mentioned. The phenomenon reportedly began on Christmas Day, 1964, with strange sounds and lights, and escalated with sightings of "Things" and later, strange objects. Shuttlewood, a journalist, amassed a significant file on these events and became a key figure in documenting them. The iconic photograph taken by Gordon Faulkner in 1965 is highlighted. Shuttlewood claimed to have been contacted by alien occupants via telephone, a claim he later noted might have been from hoaxers. His books, "The Warminster Mystery" and "Warnings from Flying Friends," are mentioned.

The establishment of The Fountain Centre in Warminster by Peter and Jane Paget is detailed, serving as a hub for UFO research and sky-watching. The publication of "The Fountain Journal" is discussed, noting its primitive production methods and its shift towards New Age topics. The article also mentions the "M86 Notebook" by Peter Paget and the local UFO scene's decline, followed by the emergence of UFO-Info and later research efforts.

The Thousand Oaks Incident

The final section details the Thousand Oaks Incident, reported by Brian Vike. In November 1975, in Thousand Oaks, California, Steve and his companions witnessed a blue fireball that emitted energy tentacles. Later, a pine tree spontaneously combusted, attributed by a newspaper to a transformer short, though the witnesses suspected a connection to the fireball. The following day, no burn marks were found in the field where the fireball landed. Further strange occurrences included a bizarre scream heard from the hills.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently questions official explanations for UFO events, emphasizing witness testimony and the alleged suppression of information. There is a strong focus on the perceived cover-up surrounding the Roswell incident and the unreliability of official reports. The Warminster section highlights the dedication of researchers and the public's fascination with unexplained phenomena. The Thousand Oaks incident adds another personal account of an extraordinary event. The overall stance appears to be one of skepticism towards official narratives and a belief in the reality of unexplained aerial phenomena and potential extraterrestrial contact.

This issue of UFO DATA features two main articles: "The Cosford Incident - a case of wishful thinking" by Joe McGonagle and Gary Anthony, and "ALIEN AUTOPSY INQUEST" by Philip Mantle. The magazine also includes a section on audio CDs and DVDs related to UFOs and controversial subjects.

The Cosford Incident - a Case of Wishful Thinking?

This article investigates the events of the night of 30/31st March 1993, when multiple witnesses in the UK reported seeing unusual lights in the sky. The authors, Joe McGonagle and Gary Anthony, base their analysis on documents obtained from the Ministry of Defence (MoD) under the Code of Practice and Freedom of Information Act. They highlight that 27 reports were received, with 16 concentrated in a 35-minute period between 00:55 and 01:30, indicating that something significant happened.

The MoD civil servant responsible for assessing these reports, Nick Pope, checked with Fylingdales (part of the Ballistic Missile Early Warning System) and was incorrectly advised about the re-entry of a Russian space station resupply vehicle. Meanwhile, ufologists learned from astronomer Dr. Thomas Sean Kelso that a Russian spacecraft rocket body (Cosmos 2238) had re-entered and was visible over the UK between 01:09 and 01:12. This information was conveyed to the MoD, and Kelso's calculations were later validated by Dr. Richard Haines.

Despite this information, the MoD, according to the article, placed undue trust in the observational abilities of "expert witnesses" such as police officers and aviation personnel. The article quotes Pope stating, "The observers were mostly RAF/civil police or personnel involved in aviation, making them reliable witnesses." However, Pope also acknowledged the difficulty of estimating the height and size of objects at night without comparison, and that estimates were not always independent.

The article criticizes the MoD for not adequately assessing all reports, suggesting that many could have been explained by helicopter or commercial air activity. It points out that some interesting reports from 30th March were not followed up by the MoD at all, such as sightings over Quantock Hills, Penistone, and Bradway.

The authors estimate that about 16 (60%) of the 27 reports could be attributed to the satellite re-entry. They conclude that the MoD's assessment was poor due to resourcing and policy, influenced by studies like the US Project "Blue Book" and the "Condon Report," which concluded there was little defence interest in UFO reports. The MoD desk officers typically spent only about 25% of their time evaluating UFO reports and had little training.

Nick Pope, in his reply, states that the article is inaccurate and that the MoD took the Cosford Incident extremely seriously, with an investigation led by him. He points to an internal memo from Sec(AS) to D155 stating, "In summary, there would seem to be some evidence on this occasion that an unidentified object (or objects) of unknown origin was operating over the UK." Pope also mentions that following a Channel Five documentary, over 30 new witnesses came forward, many describing massive triangular craft performing impossible manoeuvres.

The Thousand Oaks Incident

This section details an incident experienced by Steve Johnson and his family in Thousand Oaks, USA. Over two nights, they heard a strange, otherworldly scream coming from a nearby hill. On the second night, the screaming seemed to get closer, and Steve's father and brother reported seeing two blue fireballs streak across the sky and hit the hill, followed by a loud scream. The family experienced a period of 'missing time' of about four hours. Steve later found two intersecting circles in the weeds on the hill. The incident was followed by health problems for the family's dogs, with the younger male being put down and the older female going blind.

ALIEN AUTOPSY INQUEST

This section is an interview with Philip Mantle, author of the book "ALIEN AUTOPSY INQUEST." Mantle discusses the controversial "Alien Autopsy" film, which was released in 1995. Ray Santilli, the film's owner, claims he purchased a film from an elderly freelance cameraman in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1992, which depicted the crash of a UFO and the autopsy of its occupants. Santilli later claimed that parts of the film had deteriorated and were recreated by sculptor John Humphreys.

Mantle has been researching the film since 1993 and interviewed Santilli in March 2007. Santilli maintains that the film is a restoration, not a reconstruction, and that the creature depicted is accurate, including six fingers and six toes. He also mentions that the film was shot in East London and that John Humphreys used 'Autopsies for Dummies' and images for reference.

The interview covers the movie adaptation of the story, the possibility of releasing more autopsy sequences, and the cost of the restoration (around £35,000). Santilli expresses his dislike for the "malicious element in ufology." He also states that he will reveal the cameraman's name in a future project.

Mantle's book, "ALIEN AUTOPSY INQUEST," is described as a searching, insightful examination of the film's authenticity, exploring whether it is a fake, a US military intelligence film, or the genuine article. Reviewers like Whitley Streiber and Nick Pope have praised the book.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of unexplained aerial phenomena, the critical examination of official government responses, and the exploration of controversial UFO-related media like the 'Alien Autopsy' film. The magazine appears to adopt a stance of thorough research and critical analysis, encouraging readers to form their own conclusions based on the presented evidence and interviews. There is a clear focus on presenting detailed accounts of sightings and investigations, while also questioning the official narratives and the potential for hoaxes or misinterpretations.

This issue of The Kelsonian-Tribune, presented as a 60th Anniversary Issue focusing on the Roswell incident, delves into various UFO-related topics. It features a critical review of the television documentary 'The Roswell Incident: The True Story', personal investigations into alleged crash sites, and reports on international UFO activity.

MP's Crash Site Revisited

Ed Gehrman recounts his personal journey to retrace the route of a 'MP' (Military Police) to a purported Roswell craft crash site. He describes the challenging road conditions and his use of aerial photos and maps to locate the area. Gehrman was looking for a site described by the MP, which involved a craft resembling a manta-ray and injured beings. He notes the presence of twin windmills as a key landmark, which led him to a gated road. Upon reaching the site, he found a unique mud-like substance covering the area, unlike anything he had seen before. He later returned with a 4x4 vehicle for a more thorough examination.

UFOs, Crop Circles and the Mayan Calendar by Rob Simone

This section introduces Rob Simone, an internationally-acclaimed UFO and paranormal researcher, and his book, which compiles articles on UFOs, crop circles, and the Mayan Calendar. The book covers topics ranging from UFOs to space anomalies and world-spanning conspiracies.

The Roswell Incident: The True Story

This article critically analyzes the Channel 5 (UK) documentary 'The Roswell Incident: The True Story'. It recounts the events of the Roswell incident, starting with rancher Mac Brazel's discovery of debris in June 1947. The article highlights the initial press release by RAAF officer Lieutenant Walter Haut, which announced the capture of a 'flying disc', and the subsequent press conference by General Roger Ramey, who attributed the debris to a weather balloon. It discusses the context of UFO sightings in 1947, including Kenneth Arnold's sighting, and mentions radar operators tracking 'unknowns'. The article also touches upon the idea that media coverage of UFOs in the Fifties distracted the public from the Cold War threat and that public trust in government was eroded in the Sixties and Seventies. It questions the documentary's narrative, particularly Nick Pope's explanation of the late Seventies revival of the story coinciding with Steven Spielberg's 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind'. The piece contrasts Major Jesse Marcel's account of the debris's strange properties with the documentary's explanation of it being from a Project Mogul balloon. It also brings up the controversy surrounding the 'Alien Autopsy' film and the documentary's dismissal of eyewitnesses using arguments about false memory syndrome and media influence.

The Roswell Incident: The True Story (Continued)

The article continues its critique of the documentary, discussing the claim that the Roswell witnesses latched onto Frank Scully's hoax book 'Behind the Flying Saucers'. It questions the credibility of Jesse Jr. Marcel's testimony due to his age at the time, while also pointing out the unreliability of dismissing eyewitnesses who came forward decades later. The piece explores the theory that extraterrestrials were attracted to Earth after the 1945 atomic bomb detonation, citing Seth Shostak's skepticism about travel time. It reiterates the documentary's explanation of the Roswell incident as Project Mogul, a top-secret balloon program designed to detect atomic explosions, suggesting the debris was mistaken for alien technology. The article concludes that the documentary, while entertaining, was a 'hit piece' that aimed to debunk UFO proponents rather than objectively investigate.

France Goes Public on 'UFOs'

This section reports on the French government's decision in March 2007 to make its UFO files publicly accessible online. The files, collected from the space agency CNES and the study group GEIPAN, were so numerous that the website initially crashed. The database, expected to contain around 10,000 documents, includes reports from 1954 onwards, covering technical reports, photographs, and videos. France is noted as the first country to make its entire library of sightings open to the public without requiring official request forms.

In The News

1947 'UFO Plane' Wreckage Found

Jim Greear of Longview, Washington, is reported to have found the wreckage of a B-25 bomber that crashed in August 1947. The mystery surrounding the crash stems from reports that the bomber was carrying debris from a crashed flying disc, possibly the object that came down off Maury Island. Rumors suggest the plane was shot down to prevent the UFO debris from reaching its destination.

UFO Sighting Over Dublin

A report from www.hbccufo.org describes a UFO sighting on April 18, 2007, over Dublin. The witness observed a huge ball of light, followed by two more misty orange lights moving in the same path. The object was described as a silent, chevron-shaped bank of misty orange lights with a hazy outline, moving very fast.

Bright Light Seen over New South Wales, Australia

Residents in New South Wales reported a brilliant light in the sky in mid-April 2007. While authorities suggested it was a meteor or man-made space junk, the regularity of sightings suggested something else.

Canadian Sightings Continue to Grow

In contrast to a general decline in UFO sightings, Canada reported over 730 sightings in 2006, averaging more than two per day. Chris Rutkowski of the Ufology Research Institute believes this indicates a persistent, underlying phenomenon.

Project Condign Cost £50,000

Liberal Democrat MP Norman Baker questioned the UK government regarding the cost and authorship of the 'Unidentified Aerial Phenomena in the UK Air Defence Region' study. The response indicated that the cost was approximately £50,000, with the author being a contractor whose name was withheld for data protection reasons. The DIS ceased monitoring UFO reports as they contained no information of Defence Intelligence interest.

'I Saw The Phoenix Lights!' Former Arizona Governor's Amazing Confession

Former Arizona Governor Fife Symington III recounted his experience of seeing the 'Phoenix Lights' in 1997, dismissing the Air Force's explanation of flares and describing the object as enormous, inexplicable, and having a constant, geometric shape. Symington was later convicted of bank fraud, a conviction that was overturned.

Silent Running

Kevin J. Pratt reports a sighting on December 12, 1997, of a silent, V-shaped craft with three lights hovering over the Bancroft estate in Tamworth, Staffordshire, UK. He describes the craft as having a dark V silhouette with a bright central strobe light and wings with a velvet appearance. Pratt notes its unusual construction and silent operation, suggesting it might be a military stealth aircraft.

Addendum

Pratt recalls a British invention from the 1970s-1980s, a silent motor that used exhaust noise to cancel out sound. He wonders if the military found a use for this technology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the enduring mystery of the Roswell incident, the examination of UFO evidence and witness testimony, and the role of government secrecy and cover-ups. The magazine appears to lean towards investigating and presenting alternative explanations for UFO phenomena, often questioning official narratives and highlighting the persistence of eyewitness accounts. There's a critical stance towards documentaries that aim to debunk UFO claims, suggesting they may not be objective. The issue also touches upon the international scope of UFO sightings and government transparency regarding the subject.

This issue of UFOData, titled "Roswell Plus Sixty," commemorates the 60th anniversary of the Roswell incident. The magazine features a column by Nick Pope, who focuses on less-discussed aspects of the case, such as the speed of investigations and the significance of the initial press release. It also includes articles on the historical context of the Roswell incident, the "Alien Autopsy" film, presidential references to Roswell, and the cultural impact of the event.

The Nick Pope Column

Introduction

Nick Pope begins by stating that he will not provide a standard overview of the Roswell incident, assuming readers are already familiar with it. Instead, he aims to offer new perspectives for those with a good knowledge of the case.

How do you Solve a Problem Like Roswell?

Pope emphasizes the importance of speed in investigations, drawing parallels between medical 'golden hours' and the first 24 hours in police work. He notes that in ufology, evidence and witness recollections diminish over time, and military data, like radar tapes, was often reused after a short period. He expresses doubt that the Roswell case can be magically solved nearly 60 years later.

The Press Release

Pope, trained in media management by the MoD, discusses the significance of the initial press release issued by the US Army, which announced the recovery of a 'flying disc'. He questions the 'desired outcome' of this proactive release, noting that it was unusual and that the subsequent 'weather balloon' story might be viewed through the lens of news management.

Did Roswell Disappear?

Pope addresses the misconception that the Roswell story vanished until 1978. He points to Frank Edwards' 1966 book, "Flying Saucers – Serious Business," which includes a chapter mentioning a rancher near Roswell who reported a crashed 'disc-shaped object'. Edwards' account differs from popular versions and includes details about the military cordoning off the area and the official explanation of a box kite used for radar testing, omitting why it caught fire.

The Two Roswell Reports

This section details the official reports published by the United States Air Force in response to a General Accounting Office inquiry. The first report, "The Roswell Report: Fact vs. Fiction in the New Mexico Desert" (1994), concluded the object was a balloon-borne acoustical sensor array from the MOGUL program. The follow-up, "The Roswell Report: Case Closed" (1997), addressed alien body recovery claims, attributing them to anthropomorphic test dummies, aircraft accidents, and witnesses misremembering details.

Alien Autopsy Film Offered to MoD?

Pope discusses the 'alien autopsy' film, noting that a claim was made in The Times in 1995 that the film was offered to the MoD for analysis. He states that he left the MoD's UFO project before this, but is almost certain no such offer was made, suggesting that if it had been, the MoD would have quickly ascertained the film's age and origin.

President Clinton's Roswell Reference

In November 1995, during a visit to Northern Ireland, President Bill Clinton responded to a schoolboy's question about Roswell. He stated that, to his knowledge, no alien spacecraft crashed in Roswell and that if alien bodies were recovered, he was not informed.

President Bush's Roswell Reference

An Associated Press report from January 2004 mentioned President George W. Bush making a quip about an 'unfamiliar aircraft' during a visit to Roswell, which was likely a pre-prepared remark, highlighting how the incident has become part of popular culture.

Cultural Context

Pope places the Roswell incident in the context of rural America in the 1940s. He explains that the public's trust in authorities meant that the military's explanation of a weather balloon was largely accepted. He contrasts this with today's multimedia society with widespread internet access, where such a story would likely never disappear and would be subject to constant questioning.

Roswell + 60

Pope speculates on how a Roswell-like event would be handled today, considering the speed of information, the role of the media, and public skepticism towards authorities. He notes that such a complex and controversial area would be the subject of his presentation at the UFO DATA conference in October.

Conclusion

Pope acknowledges the disjointed nature of his article, aiming to focus on less common aspects of the Roswell incident to provide food for thought and spark debate on the 60th anniversary.

Stop Press: F-15 UFO Incident

This section details a Freedom of Information Act request made by Steve Johnson to the Ministry of Defence regarding an F-15 incident on January 12, 2007. Pilots reported an unidentified object on radar near Lincolnshire or North Norfolk. The investigation, led by Flt Lt Chris Rolfe, found no records of a request to investigate from LATCC(Mil). The aircraft commander confirmed identifying an object at 17,000-18,000ft, described as between a grapefruit and a soccer ball, drifting with the wind. The case was closed, but the frequency used (233.725 MHz) is associated with London Military Air Traffic Control.

Celebrities' 'Alien Encounters'

This article explores the interest of various celebrities in UFOs and extraterrestrials. It mentions Robbie Williams' fascination with the paranormal and his 'Close Encounters' tour. Michael C. Luckman's book, "Alien Rock: The Rock 'n' Roll Extraterrestrial Connection," is highlighted, detailing experiences of stars like Elvis Presley, David Bowie, and John Lennon. The article also notes Prince William's alleged interest in UFOs and mentions other celebrities such as Dan Aykroyd, Jimi Hendrix, Walter Cronkite, Jackie Gleason, and Dennis Weaver.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO phenomena, historical cases like Roswell, and contemporary sightings. There's an emphasis on critical analysis, questioning official narratives, and exploring the cultural impact of UFO beliefs. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into the subject matter, presenting various perspectives and investigations, including official reports and personal accounts.