UFOdata Magazine - Issue 12 - nov-dec-2007

Magazine Overview

Title: UFODATA MAGAZINE
Issue: Nov - Dec 2007
Volume: 2
Date: November - December 2007
Publisher: www.ufodata.co.uk
Country: UK
Price: £3.95 UK / £4.95 Overseas

This issue of UFODATA Magazine celebrates its first year as a glossy magazine and second year in print. The cover features a striking, albeit controversial, image of Adolf Hitler and two grey aliens beneath a Nazi-emblazoned flying saucer, with the headline "The best UFO Magazine in print."

Table of Contents and Key Articles

This issue offers a diverse range of articles, including:

• 4 RUSSIA'S UFO SECRETS: More from Philip Mantle & Paul Stonehill.
• 9 Fairytales or Aliens: Feature writer Brian Allan explores 'Fairyland'.
• 14 ROSWELL 60 CONFERENCE: Steve Johnson reviews the events.
• 31 Apollo 20 Controversy: Did NASA launch further moonshots to the darkside?
• 36 WWII UFOS: Cover feature from Steve Johnson.
• 40 DC Gary Heseltine Reports: Gary joins UFO DATA in January.
• 45 Col. Jesse Marcel Jr.: Philip Mantle spent time with Jesse during his UK trip.

The magazine promises "Stories, Features, News and Reviews contained across info packed pages."

UFO Discovered in Military Training Film (BBC NEWS Online Host Film Clip)

This article discusses a UFO sighting captured in a military training film recorded over Israel. The footage, acquired by the BBC, shows an unusual object flying close to high-speed jet fighters. While initially suspected to be reflections or distortions from the aircraft's canopy, frame-by-frame analysis by Steve Johnson revealed an aircraft clearly passing in front of a cigar-shaped object. The article notes that while the news report mentioned jettisoning spent fuel pods, it would be impractical and dangerous to do so in a training mission flight path. The clip is available online via the BBC News website and YouTube.

SETKA: A Secret Soviet UFO Research Program

This extensive feature by Paul Stonehill & Philip Mantle delves into the clandestine Soviet UFO research programs, SETKA-AN and SETKA-MO. Following a surge in UFO activity in 1977-1978, particularly the Petrozavodsk Case, the USSR Academy of Sciences and the Ministry of Defense established research programs to study anomalous atmospheric phenomena. The programs were driven by concerns about the impact of these phenomena on military technology and personnel. Key figures involved included Vladimir Vasilyevich Migulin and Yury Victorovich Platov. The research aimed to provide a scientific explanation for sightings, often reclassifying them as 'anomalous atmospheric phenomena' to circumvent censorship. The article details the organizational structure, the participants, and the challenges faced, including scarce funding and the need for secrecy. It also touches upon the potential military applications of any findings. The program reportedly continued in various forms until the early 1990s.

The Players and the Program's Genesis

The article names numerous individuals present at a crucial meeting on October 18, 1978, who were instrumental in forming the SETKA programs. These included representatives from various Soviet scientific institutes and military units. The Izmiran (Institute of Terrestrial Magnetism and Diffusion of Radio Waves) was designated as the main agency for SETKA-AN, with Platov as chief executive. Discussions revolved around organizational details, data storage, and the sources of primary information, which included the Ministry of Defense, Ministry of the Interior Affairs, and TASS.

SETKA's Impact and Controversy

The SETKA programs had a significant impact, with the 'Academic Commission' tasked to prove there were no UFOs, attributing sightings to errors or natural phenomena. However, the article suggests that SETKA-MO, the Ministry of Defense branch, was more serious in its investigations. There were instances where 'anomalous phenomena' led to unauthorized missile launches and equipment malfunctions during military exercises. The article also notes that the term 'UFO' was officially replaced by 'anomalous atmospheric phenomena' in 1989, and censorship on the subject was removed in 1989. The authors express skepticism about the publication of Boris Sokolov and Y. Platov, suggesting an agenda to denigrate independent UFO research.

Revelations of Colonel Plaksin

Colonel Aleksandr A. Plaksin, a military geophysicist and leading paranormal phenomena expert for the Russian Defense Ministry, is interviewed. He discusses the military-industrial complex's achievements, the role of 'aliens' in technology, and his 15 years of UFO research. Plaksin claims that while he never obtained direct proof of alien civilizations, Americans have researched UFOs since 1954 and operated a secret center to study anomalous phenomena, leading to the creation of a 'super weapon'. He also details the creation of the Soviet program to study anomalous phenomena from 1978 onwards, drawing information from various Soviet military branches.

Notable SETKA Cases

The article highlights several specific cases investigated under the SETKA programs:

• 1974, BOROSOGLEBSK AREA: A motionless black cloud, approximately 1.5 km long, hovered over the Povorino airfield for four hours. An intercepting jet experienced a powerful siren, a 'dangerous altitude' reading, and violent shaking upon entering the cloud.
• 1981, Mukachevo, Ukraine: A fiery sphere appeared in front of a MIG-23 jet during a training flight, destroying the front of the aircraft and forcing the pilot to eject.
• October, 1982: A significant incident occurred on October 4, 1982, when a large UFO hovered over a ballistic missile base in Ukraine. This event prompted fears of an accidental nuclear war as missile launch controls were activated. The incident was investigated by Soviet Colonel Boris Sokolov, though he later changed his views on the UFO hypothesis. The event was also reported by ABC News, with interviews of military personnel confirming the sighting and the near-miss nuclear launch.

Fairytales or Alien Abduction?

This article by Brian Allan explores the phenomenon of alleged alien abductions, drawing parallels with ancient folklore and fairytales. It begins by discussing the 17th-century case of Reverend Robert Kirk, a Scottish minister who mysteriously disappeared. Local legend suggests he was taken by 'good people' (fairies) to a fairy hill. The article links this to the 'Pied Piper of Hamelin' legend, where children were entranced and led away into a cavern. It posits that 'portals' and 'window areas' in UFOlogy might be analogous to these magical openings described in folklore. The author suggests that 'non-terrestrial entities' may exist among us, invisible due to our lack of a frame of reference to perceive them. The article also references Sir James Fraser's 'The Golden Bough' and the Reverend Kirk's book, 'The Secret Commonwealth of Elves, Fauns and Fairies', as sources that question traditional dogmas of science and religion.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFODATA Magazine strongly focuses on the historical and ongoing investigation of UFO phenomena, particularly within the context of Soviet and Russian research. The editorial stance appears to be one that supports independent UFO research and is critical of attempts to dismiss or debunk such phenomena, as exemplified by the critique of Platov and Sokolov's publication. The magazine highlights the potential for UFOs to impact military technology and personnel, and explores the intersection of UFO sightings with folklore and historical mysteries. The inclusion of the controversial cover image suggests a willingness to engage with provocative themes within the UFO community. The magazine also emphasizes its commitment to publishing research that lies on the 'fringe of ufology or the unexplained'.

This issue of UFO DATA Magazine covers the 'ROSWELL 60' conference, subtitled 'The Rebirth of British Ufology,' held at The Parkside Hotel in Pontefract, UK, on October 20th-21st, 2007. The conference attracted over 500 delegates and featured a lineup of speakers discussing various aspects of UFO phenomena.

Conference Highlights and Speakers

The conference began with a talk by Nick Pope, former head of the Ministry of Defence's UFO desk, who discussed 'What Would Happen if Roswell Occurred Today?' Pope expressed concern that there were no contingency plans for UFO crashes and that a peaceful first contact scenario would likely be on alien terms. He suggested that SETI and ufology should work together.

Michael Hesemann, a German researcher, presented on 'KGB UFO Secrets,' debunking a popular television special and revealing information from released KGB UFO files. He shared reports of numerous UFO encounters by Soviet military personnel and pilots, including sightings of cigar-shaped objects and triangles.

Donald R Schmitt, a Roswell researcher, gave an impassioned lecture on the Roswell Incident of 1947. He highlighted the military's handling of civilian witnesses, the role of Sheriff Wilcox, and the unusual security measures surrounding the debris. Schmitt presented evidence suggesting the crash was more than a weather balloon, including witness accounts of 'memory metal' and unusual symbols.

Jesse Marcel Jr., son of the Major Jesse Marcel involved in the Roswell Incident, spoke for the first time in the UK. He shared his personal experiences and his father's account, emphasizing the reality of the event and the 'memory metal.' He also discussed his book, 'Roswell Legacy,' and the importance of bringing these experiences to light.

Malcolm Robinson presented on the Robert Taylor case from Livingston in 1979, a well-known British UFO incident. He also shared humorous anecdotes, contributing to the conference's engaging atmosphere.

Gary Heseltine, co-editor of UFO Data Magazine and a detective, spoke on 'The Police and the Nature of Evidence,' outlining how UFO reports should be investigated from a police perspective, emphasizing the analysis of various forms of evidence.

Spyros Melaris was introduced as a controversial speaker.

Key Themes and Incidents Discussed

The conference explored several key themes:

• Government Secrecy and Cover-ups: The Roswell Incident and the Ministry of Defence's handling of UFO reports were central to discussions about official secrecy.
• Alien Technology and Contact: Speakers debated the nature of alien technology, the possibility of interspecies communication, and the implications of advanced civilizations.
• The Nature of UFOs: The distinction between ETs and fairies was explored, with suggestions that they might be manifestations of the same phenomenon, possibly involving exotic technology and electromagnetic fields.
• Witness Testimony and Evidence: The reliability of witness accounts, particularly from credible sources like military personnel, was emphasized. The importance of physical evidence, radar data, and photographic/video evidence was also highlighted.
• The Roswell Incident: Detailed accounts of the 1947 crash, including witness testimonies, military actions, and the alleged recovery of non-terrestrial material, were presented.
• The Robert Taylor Case: This incident involved a forester's encounter with a UFO, leaving behind physical traces and leading to a baffling investigation.
• Soviet UFO Encounters: Evidence from KGB files suggested a significant number of UFO sightings by Soviet military personnel.

Several specific incidents were detailed, including the Roswell crash, the Robert Taylor case, Soviet UFO sightings, and more recent cases like the Belgian triangular UFO and footage from Portsmouth and Fleetwood.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's stance appears to be one of serious investigation into UFO phenomena, presenting evidence and witness accounts from credible sources. There is a clear emphasis on challenging official narratives and exploring the possibility of extraterrestrial or non-terrestrial involvement in unexplained events. The conference itself is framed as a significant event, marking 'the rebirth of British ufology,' suggesting a renewed interest and a commitment to uncovering the truth behind these mysteries. The editorial tone encourages open-mindedness while demanding rigorous analysis of evidence, as exemplified by Gary Heseltine's talk on police procedures for investigating UFOs.

This issue of UFO Data Magazine, identified as issue 23, features a prominent article titled "Scientists & UFOs" by Andrew Pike (FRAS), alongside other articles exploring UFO phenomena and space missions. The cover art juxtaposes Albert Einstein with layered UFO imagery, suggesting a focus on the intersection of science and the unexplained.

The Alien Autopsy Hoax

The magazine details the claims of Spyros Melaris, a filmmaker and illusionist, who states he created the infamous 'Alien Autopsy' film. Melaris explains that Ray Santilli approached him to create a documentary, and he proposed making a more convincing film than the 'tent footage' which he considered a fake. He enlisted sculptor John Humphries to create the 'corpses'. Melaris asserts that the film was an illusion, and he designed and filmed it entirely, including the set design based on a genuine 1947 Kodak reel of a baseball match. He also claims to have filmed the cameraman's statement, paying a tramp $500 to read lines. Melaris explains that the 'fuse' on the telephone in the film was a deliberate trick to make people question its authenticity, noting that curly wires were available as an upgrade in 1947. He states that Santilli and Shoefield later claimed the original film was ruined, a claim Melaris refutes, stating the 'original film' shown to him was the known fake tent footage. Melaris felt free to speak out after Santilli and Shoefield's 2005 movie and claims that an agreement was broken. He also mentioned that a book is being written about the escapade.

The Apollo XX Controversy

Steve Johnson reports on the 'Apollo XX Controversy,' questioning the official narrative of the Apollo Moon landings. The article lists the known Apollo missions and their astronauts, from Apollo 11 (Armstrong, Aldrin, Collins) to Apollo 17 (Cernan, Schmitt, Evans). It then introduces claims that a mission, Apollo 20, launched on August 16th, 1976, from Vandenberg Air Force base, with a mixed American-Soviet crew including Commander William Rutledge, Pilot Leona Snyder, and Lunar Module Pilot Aleksei Leonov. This mission, allegedly not overseen by NASA but by the USAF, was purportedly tasked with landing on the far side of the Moon to explore a derelict alien spacecraft photographed during Apollo 15. Rutledge, who now lives in Rwanda, claims to have worked for Bell Labs and was contracted by the USAF. He describes the alien ship as approximately 1.5 milliard (billion) years old, pitted with craters, and containing evidence of plant-life and 'triangular rocks' emitting a yellow liquid with medical properties. They also found alien bodies, including a 1.65-meter humanoid female who was allegedly still alive and returned to Earth. The article notes that videos of this purported mission appeared on YouTube in April 2007, receiving over a million hits, and that Luca Scantamburlo, an Italian journalist, contacted 'retiredafb' (Rutledge's YouTube alias). Rutledge stated that Apollo 19 ended in disaster, possibly due to a 'quasi-satellite'. He also mentioned that the alien ship's cockpit was full of calligraphy and semi-hexagonal tubes.

Scientists & UFOs

Andrew Pike (FRAS) discusses the complex relationship between ufology and science, noting that most scientists, particularly astronomers, find UFOs a taboo subject. He explains that the acronym UFO, meaning 'unidentified flying object,' is simple, but its interpretation varies significantly between ufologists, scientists, and the military. Pike highlights that while the MoD may deny investigating UFOs, they do investigate unidentified objects entering airspace. He argues that science is about discovering new things, yet scientists are often hesitant to admit belief in UFOs. Pike addresses the common misconception that scientists only believe what they see, citing his own sightings compared to Sir Patrick Moore's lack thereof. He notes that many scientists are put off by ufology's perceived unwelcoming stance towards science and the 'stigma' of dealing with 'little green men.' Pike criticizes the MoD's handling of the Rendlesham Forest affair, citing poor scientific practice in their documentation. He expresses a preference for Nick Pope's approach, who, despite being gagged, reviewed UFO files. Pike supports the idea of a cover-up, but attributes it to black projects and ignorance rather than an ET connection. He recounts his own experience investigating a sighting of Venus, which the witness dismissed as a government cover-up, illustrating the difficulty in dealing with 'True Believers.' Pike also mentions the negative impact of 'cranks and crackpots' within ufology, citing Sir Patrick Moore's dismissive comments. He notes that while few scientists are actively researching UFOs, terms like AOP (Anomalous Observational Phenomena) have been introduced. Pike concludes that while he has had no trouble from the MoD, he has faced problems from a small number of 'bad apples' within ufology, which can deter scientists. He also touches upon the possibility of extraterrestrial life being discovered through exoplanet research.

Other Content

The issue also includes a report on the evolution of UFO Data Magazine, with Russ Callaghan explaining its origins after UFO Magazine closed. He mentions Gary Heseltine joining as co-editor and thanks the cover artist, Rob. The magazine discusses the prevalence of hoaxes on YouTube and highlights a recent UFO sighting over Leeds in February 2007, captured on mobile phone video and shown on BBC television, which remained unexplained even after contacting RAF Fylingdales. Clips are shown, including the Haiti hoax and footage of Israeli F-16s potentially interacting with other UFOs. The magazine also pays tribute to the late Graham Birdsall. Don Schmitt is mentioned as starting his second lecture.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO Data Magazine appears to adopt a critical yet open-minded stance towards UFO phenomena. It actively investigates claims of hoaxes, such as the 'Alien Autopsy' film, by presenting the perspective of the alleged creator. Simultaneously, it explores more speculative claims, like the 'Apollo XX' mission, by detailing the purported evidence and testimonies. The magazine also engages with the scientific community, highlighting the challenges and skepticism faced by researchers and scientists in the field of ufology. There's a recurring theme of questioning official narratives and seeking alternative explanations, while also acknowledging the prevalence of misinformation and the need for rigorous analysis. The editorial stance seems to be one of encouraging critical thinking and providing a platform for diverse viewpoints within the UFO community.

Title: UFODATA MAGAZINE
Issue Date: November - December 2007
Cover Headline: Man-Made UFOs: World War II's Secret Legacy

This issue of UFODATA MAGAZINE prominently features a cover story titled "Man-Made UFOs: World War II's Secret Legacy," by Steve Johnson, which delves into the controversial theory that many UFO sightings are not extraterrestrial but rather advanced, secret aircraft developed by human technology, particularly during WWII by Nazi Germany.

Man-Made UFOs: World War II's Secret Legacy

The main article focuses on the work of Renato Vesco, an Italian aircraft engineer, who was convinced that UFOs were of earthly, human origin. Vesco's book, "Man-Made UFOs - 1944-1994, 50 Years of Suppression," re-released as "Man-Made UFOs: World War II's Secret Legacy," argues that the strides made in aeronautical engineering during WWII, driven by the urgency of war, led to the development of remarkable machines that influenced modern aircraft. Vesco dismisses ufology and the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH), believing that sightings are of man-made aircraft.

The article highlights key Nazi projects such as the Feuerball, described as a circular, turbojet-powered, radio-controlled craft that generated luminous flames and was designed to automatically follow and disable enemy aircraft by proximity, potentially causing radar disruption. Another significant development mentioned is the Kugelblitz, a highly advanced circular aircraft with gyroscopic stabilization and various exotic technologies.

Renato Vesco's research suggests that after WWII, the Allies, particularly the US through Operation Paperclip, acquired significant German technology and scientists. The article posits that the race to conquer space was fueled by this captured technology, and that phenomena like the Kenneth Arnold sighting in 1947 might have been a squadron of advanced 'suction aircraft' developed by the British and Canadians, or possibly modified Horton flying wings.

David Hatcher Childress, co-author of Vesco's book, is interviewed and supports the idea that Vesco was on the right track regarding man-made UFOs, despite facing criticism for including projects not directly related to aerial craft. Childress acknowledges the effectiveness of military disinformation campaigns in promoting the ET hypothesis over the possibility of advanced human technology.

Apollo 20 and William Rutledge

The magazine also touches upon the controversial Apollo 20 mission, referencing videos posted by 'retiredafb' (William Rutledge) that allegedly show the launch of an alien ship and interior CM images. Luca Scantamburlo, contacted by UFO Data Magazine, expresses skepticism about 'retiredafb' but believes there are kernels of truth, citing a NASA reference to the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project capsule as 'Apollo 18'. Scantamburlo also notes an interview with Aleksei Leonov where he discusses the Apollo-Soyuz mission and mentions the Academy of Science and Dr. Fletcher.

PRUFOS Police Database: Case Reviews 2004-2007

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a review of UFO cases collected in the PRUFOS Police Database, compiled by Detective Constable Gary Heseltine. This section details numerous sightings reported by uniformed police officers across the UK between 2004 and 2007, as well as historical cases.

Key cases reviewed include:

• December 21, 1901: Two uniformed officers in Haworth, West Yorkshire, observed a luminous UFO shaped like a cigar.
• February 20, 1964: PC 392 Crook observed three fast-moving, oval-shaped UFOs in Shoeburyness.
• December 1972: A couple in Beoley observed three hovering lights for four hours, attended by police.
• 1972: Two officers in Banbury saw a yellow cigar-shaped UFO move at high speed.
• September 23, 1998: Two officers in Henfield, Sussex, observed unusual lights and a beam of light shone to the ground.
• January 21, 2005: Approximately 20 objects were seen in the sky above Runcorn, Cheshire, by multiple witnesses, including police officers.
• October 1967: Police officers across Sussex and Oxfordshire observed a fiery cross UFO.
• December 31, 1978: Two officers in Burnley observed a large, bus-sized UFO with a long tail.
• Christmas 1980: Two officers in Skirlaugh, Hull, observed a UFO descend into a quarry.
• November 30, 1981: Five officers in Pontefract observed a spherical, multicoloured UFO with a silvery crescent.
• Early 1980s: PC Gary Milburn in Brighouse observed a silent, triangular-shaped object with coloured lights.
• Early 1980s (London): A police helicopter crew observed a hovering UFO above Southampton Water.
• May 5, 2001: A similar sighting to the previous one occurred in Southampton, involving a police helicopter.
• August 11, 2001: A Northumbria police officer observed a UFO near the Scottish border.
• June 1991: Two officers in Gwent saw two orange UFOs circling a farmer's field, followed by the discovery of a crop circle.
• December 26, 1996: Two officers in Holt, Norfolk, chased a UFO over the North Sea.
• Summer 0100 hours: A traffic officer in Glamorgan observed a single bright white light moving horizontally.
• May 19, 2000: Video footage captured a hovering UFO above Southampton Water.
• February 19, 1983: Hundreds of people, including two detectives, observed a large triangular UFO over Swansea.
• Midnight, December 1988: Traffic officers observed a UFO with flames near Scotch Corner.
• June 1996: Three officers observed a triangular UFO above the Brown Cow Public House in West Yorkshire.
• October 5, 1996: Police officers and coastguard personnel observed a red and green rotating light on the East Coast, which was also detected on radar.

The article notes the lack of mainstream media interest in these police reports, suggesting media suppression.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the potential for advanced, man-made technology to be mistaken for UFOs, particularly concerning WWII-era German aircraft, and the pervasive nature of government cover-ups and disinformation. The magazine appears to lean towards the 'man-made' explanation for many UFO phenomena, while acknowledging the possibility of extraterrestrial involvement as one of several theories. The editorial stance, as indicated by the focus on Vesco's work and the extensive police sighting reports, suggests a critical examination of official narratives and a willingness to explore unconventional explanations for aerial phenomena.

This issue of UFODATA Magazine, dated January/February, presents a comprehensive look at UFO phenomena, technological advancements, and astronomical discoveries. The cover story features an interview with Dr. Jesse Marcel Jr., titled 'And now Straight from the horses mouth,' delving into his personal connection to the Roswell Incident. The magazine also includes a detailed statistical analysis of UFO cases from the PRUFOS Police Database and reports on cutting-edge astronomy and military technology.

Initial Statistical Analysis of Cases on the PRUFOS Police Database 2006

The magazine begins with a statistical breakdown of UFO sightings collected by the PRUFOS Police Database over five years, analyzing over 200 reports. Key findings include:

• 75% of 'on duty' cases are multiple officer sightings.
• The top three multiple officer cases involved sightings in Stanmore (1984), South Wales/Devon/Cornwall (1993), and Windermere (1977).
• 13 'on duty' cases involved 5 or more officers.
• The peak years for sightings were 1967 (20 cases), 1980 (14 cases), 1978 (13 cases), 1977 (10 cases), and 1988 (10 cases).
• West Yorkshire had the highest concentration of police UFO sightings with 25 cases, followed by North Yorkshire (12), London (11), and Staffordshire (10). Wales and Scotland collectively reported 14 and 7 cases, respectively.
• The top five UFO shapes reported were Light (104), Sphere (23), Cigar (21), Triangular (13), and Saucer (13).

The classification of UFOs is broken down by 'On Duty' and 'Off Duty' sightings, using Dr. J. Allen Hynek's criteria. For 'On Duty' cases, NL (Nocturnal Light) accounted for 148 sightings, DD (Daylight Disc) for 5, CE1 (Close Encounter 1st Kind) for 21, CE2 for 3, and CE3 for 1. For 'Off Duty' cases, NL had 17, DD had 4, CE1 had 12, CE2 had 0, and CE3 had 2.

Further statistics reveal 20 multiple UFO cases, 2 involving USOs (Underwater Surface Objects), and 6 with radar confirmation. Notably, 67% of CE1 cases (14 out of 21) were multiple police officer witness sightings. The analysis also notes that 12 out of 21 'On Duty' CE1 cases involved silent UFOs.

The magazine acknowledges that the UFO Classifications are based on Dr. J. Allen Hynek's criteria, with an extension of the CE1 distance from 150 to 400 meters for this analysis.

In the News

This section covers several distinct news items:

Army tests James Bond style tank that is 'invisible'

The Ministry of Defence has unveiled new technology that can make tanks invisible. In trials, cameras and projectors beam images of the surrounding landscape onto the tank. The technology is expected to be ready for service by 2012. Professor Sir John Pendry of Imperial College London is credited as the lead scientist. A soldier present at the trials described the effect as incredible, seeing only grass and trees where the tank was.

Giant telescope's double vision

The Large Binocular Telescope (LBT), a $120m project, is nearing completion in Arizona. It will be the world's most powerful optical telescope, designed to probe the universe further back in time. Professor Gerry Gilmore of the Institute of Astronomy at the University of Cambridge calls it a 'very exciting step forward.' The LBT uses two 8.4m mirrors in tandem, providing a light-gathering capacity equivalent to a single 11.8m telescope and a resolution ten times greater than the Hubble telescope. Dr. John Hill of the University of Arizona explains that astronomers need large collecting areas for faint objects and high resolution for sharp images. The telescope employs adaptive optics, using secondary mirrors that adjust their shape 1,000 times a second to correct atmospheric distortions. The LBT achieved 'first light' on October 12, 2005, imaging a spiral galaxy. 'Second light,' utilizing both mirrors simultaneously, is scheduled for winter. The instrument is expected to enable unprecedented imaging of extrasolar planets and supermassive black holes.

And now Straight from the horses mouth

This section features an extensive interview with Dr. Jesse Marcel Jr., conducted by Philip Mantle, the features editor of UFODATA Magazine. Dr. Marcel Jr. is the son of Major Jesse Marcel, the intelligence officer for the 509th Bomb Group who was involved in the Roswell Incident in July 1947.

Dr. Marcel Jr. recounts his childhood experience of seeing debris recovered by his father. He describes the material as foil-like, beams with strange writing or symbols (purple or violet), and black plastic-like material. He was 11 years old at the time of the incident, which occurred in early July 1947. His father, Major Marcel, woke him and his mother to show them the debris, suggesting it was from a 'flying saucer.'

Dr. Marcel Jr. discusses his father's military career, including his service in the 509th Bomb Group and his role in the atomic bomb drops on Japan. He confirms his father was highly qualified to identify aircraft and radar targets, and therefore knew the Roswell debris was not a weather balloon.

He mentions that his father was ordered by Colonel Blanchard to fly the debris to Fort Worth Army Air Field for General Ramey's inspection. Major Marcel was instructed to treat the event as a non-event. Dr. Marcel Jr. notes that the official explanation of a weather balloon was not accepted by his father.

The interview touches upon the 'taboo' nature of discussing UFOs among friends and the later contact Stanton Friedman had with his father. Dr. Marcel Jr. also shares his own military service, including 13 months in Iraq as a flight surgeon.

He discusses his book, 'The Roswell Legacy,' written to preserve his direct knowledge of the event. He believes the legacy of Roswell is the acknowledgment that humanity is not alone and that advanced civilizations may have survived their own 'nuclear adolescence.' He remains skeptical of the official explanations for the Roswell crash, stating that a balloon is a balloon, and the material used in Project Mogul was off-the-shelf.

Dr. Marcel Jr. concludes by urging people to 'stay tuned and look to the skies.' The interview highlights his conviction in the extraterrestrial nature of the Roswell crash.

One of Australia's recent UFO offerings

This article reports on UFO sightings in Wycliffe Well, Australia, a remote location in the Northern Territory, described as Australia's UFO capital. Locals claim UFOs have been visiting the continent for thousands of years. Lew Farkas, who runs the local roadhouse, has had several sightings, including lights performing maneuvers similar to aircraft carrier exercises and close encounters with objects exhibiting portholes.

Farkas dismisses explanations involving normal phenomena like birds or aircraft, and suggests that Wycliffe Well is one of only a few places globally with constant UFO activity, comparable to the Nevada Desert. He also notes that in the past, UFO activity was sometimes associated with electronic disruptions, though this has changed with fiber optic technology.

The article mentions that truck drivers first noticed unusual occurrences during World War II. Local Aboriginals also report extraterrestrial visits. Sceptics, like Barry Williams of 'The Sceptic' journal, suggest that high levels of alcohol consumption in the Northern Territory might explain the numerous sightings. However, the article also notes that the area has attracted 'experts' and UFO conventions.

Researcher Keith Douglass has heard tales of UFOs in the area, including an Aboriginal woman being chased by a flat disc with a blue dome.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes the idea that UFO sightings are significant events, often involving credible witnesses like police officers and military personnel. The statistical analysis of the PRUFOS database aims to lend scientific weight to the study of UFO phenomena. The interview with Jesse Marcel Jr. strongly supports the extraterrestrial hypothesis for the Roswell Incident, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging the possibility of alien life. The 'In the News' section showcases technological advancements that blur the lines between science fiction and reality, while the Australian UFO report highlights persistent sightings in remote areas. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation into UFO phenomena, encouraging readers to consider the evidence presented and to remain observant of potential aerial phenomena.

This issue of UFO DATA magazine, identified as issue number 64 and dated October 28, 2007, focuses on the intersection of UFO phenomena, government investigation, and religious interpretation. The cover features the headline "Something is out there" and promotes the film "Unidentified" as "A RICH CHRISTIANO FILM". The magazine includes a review of this film, an in-depth look at declassified CIA documents concerning UFO investigations, and a speculative article by Nick Pope on how the UK government might respond to a UFO crash.

Film Review: Unidentified

The review of the film "Unidentified" highlights its narrative arc, which begins as a typical UFO/abduction story but quickly pivots to a strong Christian evangelical message. The film follows two reporters, Keith (open-minded) and Brad (skeptic), investigating UFO sightings in a small Texas town. They encounter individuals who claim to have seen UFOs and are allegedly warned off by Men-In-Black. A key figure is an elderly man who claims to have worked for a covert agency that investigated alien influences and quit upon discovering the "true, spiritual nature" of the phenomena, becoming a Christian. The film emphasizes the idea that UFOs are the work of the Devil, and accepting Jesus is presented as the only salvation. The reviewer notes the film's heavy-handed Christian agenda, contrasting the portrayal of happy, faithful Christians with other groups depicted negatively. The review concludes that while the film starts well, its overt religious sermonizing makes it less an entertaining UFO film and more a promotion of a specific religious viewpoint.

CIA Investigations into UFOs

Several articles detail the CIA's historical involvement with UFOs, drawing from declassified documents. It is revealed that the CIA, along with other US intelligence and military bodies, extensively studied UFOs throughout the 1950s, exploring all possible implications for the US and Western democracies. Despite decades of public denials, the agency's interest was significant, with internal documents showing inter-agency feuds and a concern that UFO investigations might be misinterpreted as confirmation of alien presence. A 1995 CIA review suggested that files were kept to a minimum to avoid misleading the public. The documents indicate that the CIA considered UFOs not just as potential threats but also as elements in psychological warfare, exploring how they could be used by adversaries or exploited to create public hysteria. The establishment of the Office of National Estimates (ONE) under General William Bedell Smith is highlighted as a key development in consolidating UFO-related intelligence.

Specific incidents mentioned include the 1947 Kenneth Arnold sighting near Mount Rainier and the Roswell incident, with the CIA reportedly peering over the Air Force's shoulder during investigations. The agency also monitored Soviet activities related to UFOs. The article notes that the CIA's interest was often driven by concerns about Soviet capabilities and potential attacks, rather than solely by the possibility of extraterrestrial contact. The review of hundreds of unclassified documents suggests that the CIA, at the highest levels, displayed good faith in examining the UFO mystery over decades, covering scientific, political, cultural, and military inquiries.

The UFO Reporting Center

Nicholas K. Geranios reports on the National UFO Reporting Center, operated by Peter Davenport from a former Atlas missile site in Eastern Washington. Davenport collects and publishes thousands of UFO reports, giving lectures and appearing on talk shows. He considers himself a skeptic, estimating that 90% of calls can be explained, but acknowledges that some reports remain without a terrestrial explanation. The article touches on the history of UFO sightings, including the Mount Rainier incident, and Davenport's belief that governments and the press are concealing the existence of UFOs to prevent panic.

Nick Pope Column: If Roswell Happened Today (Part 1)

Nick Pope, a former UK Ministry of Defence UFO investigator, outlines four broad scenarios for how the UK government might respond to genuine extraterrestrial contact, focusing on a UFO crash in the first part of his column. He discusses the challenges of dealing with potential alien invasions, benign first contact, and the detection of signals by radio astronomy. Pope then delves into the hypothetical scenario of a UFO crash in the UK, considering the immediate response from the police and emergency services. He emphasizes the need for a plan, citing the potential for biological hazards and the critical risk posed by such an event, even if it is considered a low probability/high consequence scenario. He mentions government bodies like COBRA (Cabinet Office Briefing Room A) and the role of the Ministry of Defence in handling such crises, noting that while specific UFO crash plans may not exist, existing disaster response protocols could be adapted.

Other Content

The magazine also includes advertisements for "Spacelink Books," specializing in UFO and paranormal literature, and a notice for "Urban Myths," a shop selling UFO-related books, videos, and magazines. There is also a brief report on a bright spherical object sighted in Kolkata, India, with a local scientist offering an explanation of optical illusion or misidentification.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the UFO phenomenon from multiple angles, including personal accounts, government investigations, and speculative scenarios. There is a clear tension between the scientific/skeptical approach and the belief in extraterrestrial visitation. The review of "Unidentified" highlights a strong evangelical Christian perspective that views UFOs as demonic, while other articles focus on government secrecy and the potential for extraterrestrial contact. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into the UFO subject, acknowledging both the lack of definitive proof and the persistent nature of sightings and government interest. The inclusion of Nick Pope's column suggests an interest in official responses and contingency planning related to UFO events. The magazine seems to cater to an audience interested in the mysteries surrounding UFOs, government cover-ups, and the broader implications of potential extraterrestrial life.

This issue of UFO DATA Magazine, dated December 2007, features a cover story on a Peruvian meteorite incident that reportedly caused illness. The magazine explores various phenomena, including meteorite impacts, UFO sightings, and the risks associated with falling satellites and space debris.

Peruvian Meteorite Causes Illness

The main article details an event on September 20th, 2007, when a meteorite struck a desolate plain near the Peru-Bolivia border, close to Lake Titicaca. The impact created a crater over 40 feet wide and 15 feet deep. Eyewitnesses reported that water pooled in the depression boiled for over 10 minutes. Following the event, many locals reported falling ill with symptoms such as nausea, respiratory problems, and headaches after visiting the crater.

Scientists from Peru's Geophysics Institute confirmed the crater was made by a meteorite, finding magnetic fragments of meteoric iron. However, medical teams could not find a direct cause for the reported illnesses, though they collected samples for analysis. National Geographic reported the impactor was a rocky meteorite, with samples received by Peru's Mining, Metallurgy, and Geology Institute (INGEMMET) reportedly containing no iron. The article notes that most rock meteors burn up before hitting the ground.

Peruvian scientists suggested that steam generated by the impact, contaminated with arsenic found in the local soil and groundwater, was the likely cause of the illnesses. Conversely, Lionel Jackson of the Canadian Geological Survey, speaking to New Scientist, proposed that the illnesses were psychosomatic, attributing the locals' reactions to the shock of a significant event in a quiet area. Early theories for the event included geological venting or a satellite crash.

Fire from the Sky: Historical Impact Events

The magazine then broadens its scope to discuss other impact events and aerial phenomena. It mentions that the Earth is constantly struck by celestial objects.

An incident in early 2007 involved a lump of metal falling into a New Jersey house, initially debated as possibly an airplane part or an astronaut's tool.

The Tunguska blast of June 30th, 1908, is highlighted as a famous impact event. A large fireball exploded over the Tunguska River, flattening over 600 square miles of forest. While animal deaths were likely, no human deaths were reported, except for one trapper who died from an infection in a broken arm. Theories for the Tunguska blast range from a comet flare to an asteroid explosion, a mini black hole, or even a Tesla death ray or UFO, with the general consensus pointing to an asteroid or comet fragment exploding in the atmosphere.

Other historical events are discussed:

• St. Petersburg, Russia: A fire in the city was narrowly avoided when a celestial event happened a few hours later than it might have, which could have caused devastation.
• Chicago, USA (1871): A massive fire that devastated the city and killed over 200 people. Physicist Robert Wood suggested in 2004 that this fire might have resulted from the break-up of Biela's Comet.
• South America (1930s): Two events are mentioned: the Rio Curaca Event (1931) on the Peru/Brazil border, which allegedly set a forest ablaze and left a fine white ash, and the Rupununi Event (1935) in British Guiana (now Guyana), where an explosion flattened forest, with reports of something falling from the sky.

It is noted that many meteorite impacts are not large, with some 'soft-landing' and leaving only small depressions. Meteor fields exist globally where enthusiasts can search for space rocks.

Unnatural Objects Falling to Earth

The magazine also covers man-made objects falling from space:

• Skylab (1979): The NASA space station fell to Earth, with most of its 75 tons burning up over the Indian Ocean, but some fragments landing in Western Australia.
• Soviet Satellites (1978 & 1983): Nuclear-powered satellites crashed, including Cosmos 954 in Northern Canada in 1978, which resulted in a significant cleanup bill for the Canadian government. Cosmos 1402 crashed into the ocean in 1982 after its orbit decayed.
• Mir (2001): The 130-ton Mir space station was de-orbited and burned up over the Pacific Ocean, with about 80 tons crashing into the sea.

These incidents highlight the risks of using nuclear reactors for satellites and space probes, as radioactive material could be released.

The Kecksburg Incident

The Kecksburg Incident of December 1965 is described as a famous UFO lore event. An acorn-shaped object was seen falling near Kecksburg, Pennsylvania. While the media reported it as a meteor or Soviet satellite, eyewitnesses claimed the craft was intact. The military quickly removed it, and the Pentagon initially stated nothing was found. However, in 2005, NASA claimed to have studied fragments from the Kecksburg object, concluding it was a Soviet satellite, which contradicts the earlier statement of finding nothing.

The Sky is Falling?

The article concludes by stating that while the sky is not literally falling, it is a matter of 'when' rather than 'if' Earth will experience another large impact event. It is suggested that Earth is overdue for an impact of the magnitude of the Tunguska Event (predicted every 50-100 years) and potentially overdue for a larger impact like the one that ended the Cretaceous period 65 million years ago.

Your Letters

This section features reader contributions:

• Alma Russell's Report: Alma, who lives in a place named 'Camelot', sent in two photographs taken in August. She describes noticing a dark sky with a wonderful red cloud formation over Dartmoor, which intensified within seconds. The images are scanned copies of her original photos, which she has offered for analysis.

• Strange UFO seen over North East: Regular subscriber Mike Hallowell submitted a report dated November 4th, 2007. Standing in his garden near Sunderland, he observed a bright, pulsating light in the sky heading towards him. He described the object as not uniformly orange, with a paler glow, and noted a dark, upturned horseshoe shape and a V-shaped protuberance, making it appear like a hot-air balloon. However, its speed ruled this out.

Mike took photographs, but the first showed a twisting, writhing rope of orange light with a red glow, and a yellow 'knuckle' at points where the light changed trajectory. The second photograph showed no light, only faint cherry-red strings across the horizon, possibly fireworks.

He contacted Northumbria Police and Newcastle International Airport, neither of whom had reports of unusual activity or radar contacts. He then contacted Russ Callaghan at UFO DATA Magazine, who needed the photos and notes urgently due to an editorial deadline. Mike emailed the photographs and his account.

The section ends with a seasonal greeting from 'Russ and the crew' for Christmas and New Year 2008.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained aerial phenomena, meteorite impacts, and historical mysteries. There is a clear interest in challenging official explanations and presenting alternative theories, particularly regarding UFOs and impact events. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging reader contributions and investigations into potentially significant events, while also acknowledging the scientific and skeptical viewpoints. The recurring theme is the potential for extraordinary events, both natural and artificial, to occur and impact human lives and understanding.