Ufology News Special Bulletin - No 02 2012

Magazine Overview

Title: НОВОСТИ УФОЛОГИИ (Ufology News)
Issue: #2, 2012
Date: 2012
Publisher: НТО РЭС им. А.С. Попова (Scientific and Technical Society of Radio Electronics named after A.S. Popov)
Country: Russia
Language: Russian

This issue, published with the support of MNITS EIBC and UNITSA "Zond", presents declassified materials related to the study of anomalous atmospheric phenomena (AAPs).

Declassified Materials

The issue begins with "Declassified Materials" intended for internal use, originating from the Gorky regional branch of the Scientific and Technical Society of Radio Electronics named after A.S. Popov, Section "Study of Anomalous Atmospheric Phenomena".

Methodology for Collecting Information on Anomalous Phenomena Observations

1. Methodological Orientation for Collecting and Preliminary Processing of Reports on AAP Observations

Anomalous phenomena (APs) are defined as events with a set of characteristics that are not scientifically explainable, even with comprehensive visual, instrumental, and additional information, and which contradict current scientific understanding.

The difficulties in observing APs are well-known, including the unexpected start of observations, lack of observer preparedness in assessing angles, distances, and time, and heightened emotional states during encounters. These factors can significantly distort the perception of the objective picture.

When observers report APs, a significant portion turns out to be known objects. However, a small percentage of reports remain unexplained. A key reason for this might be the lack of specific details in the descriptions.

Studying APs requires accurate, detailed, and reliable information. The process of deciphering reports serves several purposes: filtering out hoaxes, preparing clarifying questions, identifying facts for special research, and identifying the observed object.

Directly interviewing witnesses is a crucial method. However, it's important to conduct the interview as a dialogue, avoiding premature attempts to specify details, which can lead to distortions. To facilitate this process, a specialized form and rules for collecting initial information from the public are recommended.

2. Rules for Collecting Primary Information from the Public

The ultimate goal of the research is the identification of the report. An intermediate result is the reconstruction of an objective picture of the observations by specialists. This involves both factual content analysis and psychological evaluation.

• Key rules for collecting primary information include:
• 2.1. Witness Interview: This is the primary, though not initial, form of data collection. Before filling out a questionnaire, the observer should be encouraged to describe everything they saw and considered important in their own words. An initial letter from the observer serves as a natural equivalent. In a personal interview, the observer can be asked to recount the event in writing or via a tape recorder. A taped recording of the first interview is preferred. During the first interview, it is crucial to avoid leading questions.
• 2.2. Objective Questionnaire Completion: After the initial interview, an attempt should be made to complete the questionnaire objectively. This stage may involve assisting the observer with examples from everyday life to define time intervals or directions, but not to define the object's characteristics.
• 2.3. Preliminary Analysis: This involves identifying contradictions between the initial interview and the questionnaire. This analysis can be done on-site or through correspondence, with subsequent documents being treated as "addenda."
• 2.4. Statistical Analysis and Psychological Details: While statistical analysis of AP signs and observation situations is the primary method of processing observations, psychological details are also of great interest. Instrumental measurements, photo/video recording, and trace evidence are highly important. Original photo or video materials are required for research.

3. Formatting Observation Materials

The systematic collection of information is a preliminary form of research. The questions posed help to specify the subject of observation and identify signs of the observed object, as well as reveal the emotional coloring of the observation and possible motives for mystification.

A suggested structure for formatting observation materials includes:
1. Orienting Information: Observer's full name, interviewer's name, section/group, city, observer's location, date of observation, place and date of interview (note "correspondence" if applicable).
2. Initial Letter and First Interview Materials.
3. Answers to Questionnaire (questionnaires provided in appendices).
4. Addenda to Questionnaire.
5. Documentation.

Materials are assigned an archive number. Compiled by: V.L. Kenarsky, D.A. Menkov (Moscow).

Signs of Anomaly in Observed Unusual Atmospheric Phenomena

This section, from the Section "Study of AAPs" at the NTO RES named after A.S. Popov in Gorky, defines anomalous phenomena as events with unusual characteristics that are scientifically inexplicable.

Criteria for Anomalous Phenomena:

1. Unusual Forms: Non-natural geometric shapes, combinations of shapes, or shapes with signs of technology.
2. Unusual Change in Form Over Time: Transformation of regular geometric forms or forms with signs of technology.
3. Unusual Change in Movement: Sudden changes in direction or speed, or smooth changes in speed with varying acceleration.
4. Unusual Combination and Change of Color and Brightness: Presence of different colored areas, unusual changes in brightness, or combinations of color and brightness over time and space.
5. Unusual Impact on Technology: Anomalous malfunctions of technical devices near the phenomenon, or changes in devices after the phenomenon's passage.
6. Unusual Impact on the Environment: Changes in the physical state of the environment, or residual effects on physical bodies and devices.
7. Unusual Biological Impact: Changes in the state of observers or biological objects, or unusual biological and ecological changes near the site of the phenomenon's impact.

Compiled by E.A. Ermilov.

Brief Methodology for Studying Impact Sites of Anomalous Phenomena on the Earth's Surface

The goal of any research is to establish objective truth. Studying impact sites (IS) of anomalous phenomena on the Earth's surface involves obtaining information that contributes to establishing objective truth. This research action allows for the collection of substantial objective information about the nature, characteristics, and manifestation of these phenomena through residual material traces.

Studying IS involves detecting, perceiving, and recording (directly or indirectly) traces left by APs on a specific area. This action is urgent, as delays can lead to irreversible loss of data and prolonged research.

Furthermore, studying IS is irreplaceable, as direct perception cannot be replaced by witness accounts or reconstructions, which cannot provide the same complete and objective information as the actual situation.

Characteristics of Impact Sites:

• Uniqueness: Each IS is unique, though repeated investigations are possible and necessary. However, the IS will always appear changed over time.
• Tasks: The tasks of studying an IS depend on the nature and circumstances of the event. Key tasks include:
• Establishing the veracity of the reported event.
• Detecting, investigating, and documenting factual data (traces) causally linked to the AP.
• Obtaining additional data about the phenomenon itself (methods of appearance/disappearance, duration of presence, reasons for changes).
• Investigating the location of the AP's impact.

APs interact with their environment, leaving traces. Witnesses perceive a specific episode of this manifestation. An IS is a fragment of an objectively existing event where its sides are imprinted. Therefore, an IS can be defined as a section of terrain related to the investigated AP event, containing objective information about the event through changes in the environment and other data.

Types of Impact Sites:

1. IS with Clearly Expressed Traces of AP Impact.
2. IS with No Visible Traces of AP Impact.

Common Traces of AP Impact (Group 1):

• Mechanical Traces: Soil depressions (interpreted as landing gear marks), flattened grass/reeds, broken branches, disturbed soil, powerful ground indentations.
• Thermal Effects: Burned circles, induction heating of plant roots, dried vegetation, melted minerals/metals.
• Other Material Traces: Fossilized wood, anomalous substances, unknown green liquid, oil stains, plastic-like objects, unknown plants.

Common Characteristics for Both Groups:

• Induced Fields: Radioactivity (rare), residual magnetism in metals, unknown energy fields affecting biological objects (e.g., "biofield" or "pulsation").
• Soil Properties: Soil from such sites does not sink in water. Sand may be finely fragmented, as if subjected to ultrasound.
• Luminescence: Soil and vegetation may exhibit luminescence for hours or days after the phenomenon disappears.
• Long-Term Effects: IS zones often persist for years, showing suppressed plant growth.

The presence of a combination of these traces serves as strong evidence for the event's authenticity.

Preparation for Studying Impact Sites

Preparation involves having a group of qualified specialists ready for deployment, along with necessary scientific, technical, and transport resources, and equipment for extended field stays.

During the preparatory phase, as soon as a report is received, as much information as possible should be gathered: when and how it occurred, who observed it, if there are other witnesses, and the current situation at the IS.

The group leader is responsible for preparation quality, which significantly impacts the entire investigation.

Initial Actions at the Impact Site

Upon arrival at the IS, before commencing the study, all unauthorized persons should be removed, and the availability and readiness of all scientific and technical equipment should be verified.

Subsequently, the witness is re-interviewed to verify and clarify their initial statements on-site. The witness should be placed in the same location from which they observed the event. If the witness moved during the observation, they should be asked to describe the event as if they were still in the original observation spot. During the witness's account, measurements of parameters of the observed phenomenon should be made using angle meters, and the witness's narrative should be recorded via photo, film, or tape recorder.

General Overview of the IS: A general overview is conducted to orient within the site and define the boundaries of the area to be investigated. These boundaries should encompass the entire area where traces might be found. As new information emerges, boundaries may be adjusted. The principle is to expand boundaries rather than miss any part of the territory.

During the overview, the group leader decides on the boundaries, the starting point, the sequence of methods, and outlines a specific investigation plan. An orienting and overview photo session is also conducted.

After the general overview, the direct investigation of the IS begins.

Investigation of the Impact Site

Direct investigation is carried out according to the plan. It involves several stages: visual inspection and investigation using special scientific and technical methods.

Visual Inspection: This is performed by members of the working group to identify visible traces of the event. It involves logical methods like analysis, synthesis, induction, deduction, and hypothesis formation to help determine the relevance of traces to the event and guide the inspection.

Scientific and Technical Means: To discover, investigate, and secure factual data, various scientific and technical tools are employed for searching and recording results.

Methods of Participant Movement:

• Concentric: Moving from the periphery to the center in a spiral, clockwise. This minimizes the risk of damaging traces.
• Linear: Used for extensive areas where the impact site is not precisely known, or in heavily vegetated or forested terrain. It involves moving along straight lines from a chosen starting point.

Methods for Investigating Found Objects:

• Static: The object is not touched or moved until it is documented with scientific and technical means.
• Dynamic: Used for subsequent study of the object, involving its movement.

Special Attention During Inspection:

• Traces: Pay close attention to traces characteristic of APs.
• Changes: Consider changes to the environment that may have occurred between the event and the arrival of the group, due to natural factors or human/animal activity.

• Post-Inspection Investigation: After the visual inspection, the investigation proceeds using special scientific and technical methods, including:
• Bio-soil analysis: Taking soil samples and collecting herbarium specimens.
• Bio-indication: Studying the presence of microorganisms.
• Biolocation: Studying the characteristics of the field.
• Meteorological: Studying fields and radiation using specialized equipment.

• Final Stage of Investigation: This includes:
• The leader hearing reports and remarks from participants and taking appropriate action.
• Carefully packaging soil samples, plants, and any objects found at the IS.
• Compiling an official report of the investigation.

Recording of Investigation Results

(Document ends here)

UAP? It's Serious!

This section, attributed to A.V. Beletsky, discusses the common misconception that "UFO" (Unidentified Flying Object) exclusively refers to extraterrestrial civilizations. The term, originally coined by the US Air Force in the 1950s, simply means any airborne object that the observer cannot identify.

The problem of UFOs emerged shortly after World War II, and the accumulated mass of reports is in the hundreds of thousands. Some written accounts are corroborated by instrument readings, photographs, and films. Governments and research organizations worldwide are collecting and studying data on these objects.

Not all reported celestial objects are inexplicable. Many are identified as ordinary things like optical illusions, bright astronomical objects, rocket launches, satellite falls, or scientific experiments. It is estimated that about 80% of UFO reports can be attributed to such known phenomena.

However, the remaining 20% are difficult to explain, sometimes presenting contradictory or no explanations at all. Objects and phenomena that fall into this category are of particular interest to scientists. Over the past few decades, the scientific community has moved from outright denial to serious and attentive study of these phenomena. They have been officially recognized and given a new scientific name: anomalous atmospheric phenomena (AAPs).

This new name, proposed by V.V. Migulin, a corresponding member of the USSR Academy of Sciences, avoids premature interpretations. Migulin defines AAPs as "local phenomena that have the appearance of formations with various geometric shapes with relatively sharp boundaries, stationary or moving along various trajectories."

Soviet scientists, at a 1981 conference in Kiev, concluded that AAPs are a reality and must be studied. However, their nature remains a mystery. Despite numerous hypotheses, none have fully explained the totality of empirical facts. This applies even to the extraterrestrial hypothesis, which has gained significant public attention. Scientists believe each hypothesis must be critically examined, and further research will reveal which is most accurate. Until then, any arbitrary identification of AAPs with specific hypotheses, including the extraterrestrial one, cannot be considered correct.

In the USSR, the study of anomalous atmospheric phenomena is conducted by the USSR Academy of Sciences, the Commission on Anomalous Phenomena of the Geographical Society of the USSR, and public sections of the All-Union Scientific and Technical Society of Radio Electronics, Electronics, and Communications named after A.S. Popov. These sections exist in Moscow, Kiev, Gorky, Voronezh, Yaroslavl, and other cities, including a section established in Kharkov in November 1981. These sections unite scientists and specialists interested in studying AAPs. Their work is diverse, including the development of radio-technical means for detecting AAPs in the environment.

Methodological Guidelines for Observing Anomalous Phenomena in the Atmosphere and Space and Their Impact on the Environment, Living Organisms, and Technical Systems

I. Introduction

Organizations within the USSR Academy of Sciences are conducting research into the nature of various anomalous phenomena observed in the atmosphere and outer space. To develop physical models of these phenomena and study their impact on the environment, living organisms, and technical systems, reliable observational data is essential. Therefore, organizations and departments with observation networks or conducting field research are organizing the collection of data on anomalous phenomena.

Massive amounts of data on anomalous phenomena, particularly luminous objects, are collected. These can be broadly categorized into two groups:

1. Local phenomena with distinct geometric shapes and relatively sharp boundaries.
2. Global phenomena observed over large territories with significant angular sizes, often accompanied by complex physical processes.

Due to the lack of established classification criteria for such phenomena, reliable information is crucial for interpreting them, even if the interpretation is difficult.

II. Recommendations for Registering Anomalous Phenomena

To obtain the most complete information possible about the occurrence and development of anomalous phenomena, observers should utilize available technical means, including:

• Radar stations
• Television systems
• Photo and video recording equipment
• Night vision devices
• Sound recording devices
• Dosimetry equipment
• Magnetometric equipment, etc.

1. Photographic/Video Recording: Whenever possible, phenomena should be captured on film or video. Using telephoto lenses with high resolution is recommended. A series of well-focused shots should be taken from a single point, recording the time, exposure, and aperture. If possible, use color filters or spectrozonal film, and employ stereoscopic photography with two cameras.

• 2. Radioelectronic Equipment: Anomalies in the operation of radioelectronic equipment should be noted, such as:
• Increased signal reflection brightness.
• Temporary or stable absence of signals in certain frequency bands.
• Sudden changes in radar track trajectories.
• False readings from altimeters, radio compasses, or violations in radio direction finder operation.
• Generator frequency shifts, modulation mode violations, or interference in radio receiver outputs.
• Changes in the clock frequency of the main computer, violations in the operation of memory and arithmetic units.
• Deviations in the operation of electronic and mechanical clocks.
• Malfunctions in electromagnetic devices, electrical equipment, or internal combustion engines.

• 3. Visual Observations: When technical systems are not available or cannot be used, observers should estimate:
• The start and end moments of characteristic changes and the phenomenon's development.
• Angular sizes of the phenomenon.
• Coordinates (azimuth, elevation) of the phenomenon's location.
• Brightness and characteristic features of the luminescence.
• Shape, structure, and kinetic characteristics of its movement.
• The nature of the anomaly (what appeared unusual).
• Accompanying acoustic effects, or the appearance of various odors.
• Impact on the observer's physical state.

If photographic recording is impossible, a sketch of the phenomenon is desirable.

III. Organization of Observations

Upon receiving this instruction, the head of the relevant subdivision must develop a plan for organizing observations during the development of anomalous phenomena, considering the specific possibilities of using technical means, and conduct an briefing for personnel.

It is highly desirable to obtain additional information from other witnesses of the anomalous phenomena.

IV. Content of Reports

• Reports on observed phenomena should include:
• a) Date and time (local and Moscow time) of the main phases of the phenomenon's development.
• b) Location of observation (coordinates or reference to populated areas or other landmarks).
• c) Results of phenomenon registration, obtained both visually and using technical means.
• d) Remarks on the performance of technical systems.
• e) Observation conditions: a complete report on meteorological conditions, terrain characteristics, and the observer's state, if possible.
• f) Manifestation of impact on the environment and living organisms.
• g) Personal data of the observer.

Reports may also include any other features of anomalous phenomena not covered by this instruction.

V. Procedure for Submitting Reports

Received observation results should be sent to the higher-level coordinating organization. In cases of interesting phenomena observed at close range, especially those impacting the environment and living organisms, a brief description should be urgently sent to the coordinating organization.

Specific suggestions for improving this instruction are welcome.

Protocol of the Working Group Meeting on Research Project "Grid AN"

I. According to the directive of the Presidium of the USSR Academy of Sciences No. 0172 of August 1, 1978, a number of organizations of the Academy of Sciences and other departments have been tasked with carrying out work on the research project "Grid AN." The objective of this project is to study the nature of anomalous luminous phenomena, and related secondary phenomena, that are sometimes observed in the Earth's atmosphere and near space. In addition, one of the accompanying tasks is to clarify the question of the connection between anomalous phenomena and solar activity, and human technical activities: space experiments, ionospheric sounding with powerful radio emissions, etc.

In this regard, it is necessary to organize the collection, systematization, processing, and expert evaluation of observed anomalous phenomena. For institutions and departments participating in solving this range of issues, the following technical task is proposed, which can be adjusted in coordination with the lead organization.

This document is a compilation of reports and directives related to the study of anomalous atmospheric phenomena, primarily focusing on Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP), under the research project "Setka AN" (Grid AN). It includes a military report, procedural documents for data collection and archiving, and a personal observation report.

Military Report: UAP Sighting near Malino (June 14, 1980)

A significant portion of the document is dedicated to a military report dated June 17, 1980, concerning an observation made on June 14, 1980, at 23:55 Moscow time near the settlement of Malino, Moscow region. The report details the visual observation of an unusual object in the northern sky at a significant altitude.

The object's characteristics are described as follows:

• Head: A glowing oval nucleus.
• Trail: Left a trail similar to a condensation trail from an aircraft.
• Speed: Approximately 3-4 times slower than a regular airplane.
• Secondary Object: After 1-2 minutes, a rapidly growing glowing sphere detached from the nucleus. After 10-15 seconds, it became a glowing zone.
• Descent and Dimming: The sphere sharply reduced its brightness and changed direction by 60-65° to the left, becoming dimmer.
• Final Trail: After 1-2 minutes, a glowing trail was observed at the object's flight path, which became heavily blurred and disappeared.

The observation lasted for 2-3 minutes. No adverse effects on technical equipment, people, or the environment were noted.

Meteorological conditions during the observation were:

• Visibility: 6-10 km, light haze.
• Cloudiness: 3-5 balls, high cumulus.
• Wind: Calm.
• Temperature: +9.2°C.
• Relative Humidity: 84%.
• Pressure: 750.8 mm Hg.

The observation was conducted by a group of people led by the deputy commander of the unit for IAS, Lieutenant Colonel-Engineer A. Kulshin, along with three other individuals. The report was recorded by the head of the meteorological service, Captain V. Peshekhontsev, on June 16, 1980.

Procedures for Data Collection and Archiving for "Setka AN"

Several documents outline the procedures for the "Setka AN" research project, which aims to study anomalous atmospheric phenomena.

Directive on the Order of Receiving Observational Data and Working with Them in the Archive:

This directive, stemming from a January 10, 1979, working group meeting, mandates that co-executing organizations must transfer data on anomalous atmospheric phenomena to the working group's archive. The archive is located in Moscow at Profsoyuznaya, 84/32, IKI AN SSSR, bldg. B-2, room 111. The working group may return original materials after assigning numbers and making copies. Materials with classified information are sent via special mail. The archive's contents are marked "For Official Use Only" and work with them is conducted at IKI AN SSSR.

On the Transfer of Data for the "Setka AN" Topic:

A request from the Director of the Institute of Applied Geophysics is included, asking for instructions regarding the transfer of all UAP observation reports received by the State Committee for Hydrometeorology to the working group for copying. This transfer was to occur within two weeks from February 1, 1980. The request also seeks permission for systematic quarterly transfers of new materials and urgent information requiring prompt investigation.

Private Technical Task for Scientific Research Work on the Topic "Setka AN":

This document, dated February 27, 1979, outlines the goals and content of the research. The primary goal is to investigate the nature of anomalous phenomena in Earth's atmosphere and near-space and to develop physical models of these phenomena. The scope includes developing methodological guidelines for observations, participating in the working group and its expert panel, developing recommendations for portable apparatus, and transferring information about technical experiments.

It details stages of work, timelines, reporting forms, and исполнители (executors/performers). Key stages include developing methodological guidelines in Q1 1979, participating in the working group throughout 1979-1980, and compiling a final report with recommendations by December 1980.

Proposal for Further Development of the "Setka AN" Research Project:

This section proposes organizational and methodological improvements. It suggests establishing a Coordination Council (KS) to coordinate research, monthly KS meetings (except July-August), and an executive bureau. It also recommends annual symposia and unscheduled seminars on specific topics like "Anomalous damage to glass" and "Methodology for investigating UFO landing sites." An Operational Group (OG) of 5-10 people is proposed for urgent investigations of incidents, including on-site analysis and equipment. The proposal also emphasizes the need for educational and methodological work, including publishing monographs and collections of important UAP-related works by foreign researchers, and translating key texts.

Information Collection and Processing:

Sources for UAP observation information are to include TASS, central television, newspapers, journals, the Moscow Planetarium, and the "Znanie" society. Primary analysis of unscheduled information is conducted by MAI, with further processing by IZMIRAN. IZMIRAN is to maintain a Central Catalog (CC) of UAP reports, including originals and coded cards. Secondary processing involves comparing reports with special services data to filter out false UAPs (weather balloons, satellites, etc.). Processed material is sent for statistical analysis and individual investigation of important cases.

Scientific Research Work:

Statistical processing should cover a maximum number of parameters, potentially repeating K. Poher's 1978 work on Soviet material. The document highlights the lack of participation from biologists and medics, which is seen as a significant gap. It calls for involving the Institute of Medico-Biological Problems and other relevant institutions. Special attention is to be given to studying UAP landing sites in the Moscow region and other locations, such as Chernyakhovsk and Norilsk, which are considered valuable sources of information. Physical and chemical analyses of samples from landing sites are recommended. The Petrovozavodsk phenomenon requires a comprehensive review, including effects on living nature and humans, and a critique of M. Dmitriev's hypothesis. The "flying sickles" type of UAP also warrants theoretical analysis. A review of "Physical Traces of UAP" based on Soviet data is suggested, including not only landings but also remote effects. The development of the "Ethological Aspect of UAP" is proposed, focusing on behavior relative to terrestrial objects and testing the "ICUFON Memorandum." A comparative study of "Comparative Noolology" (the science of space civilizations) is also suggested, potentially titled "Comparative Anthropometric Analysis of Humanoids." Finally, testing the "microwave" hypothesis of Mac-Campbell is recommended.

Geological Report: UAP Observation (October 14, 1980)

This report details an observation made on October 14, 1980, at 17:50 near Davydkovo, Moscow, by M.A. Bogomolov and V.S. Krasnova. They observed two objects in the sky resembling a crescent moon, later appearing as a deformed rhombus. A contrail from an aircraft was seen approaching the objects but stopped short. Small glowing points appeared between the contrail and the left object. As the sun set, the objects became less illuminated and appeared as dark dumbbells. The observation was made at an azimuth of approximately 330° and an altitude not exceeding 10° above the horizon. The observation concluded at 18:00.

Declassified Materials List

A substantial portion of the document is a list of declassified materials related to UAP research, categorized by region (USSR/Ukraine, USSR/Russia) and date. This list includes various instructions, reports, letters, meeting minutes, and technical tasks, spanning from 1977 to 1986, with some entries referencing later dates (e.g., 1993 for an instruction). The list provides titles, dates, and sometimes brief descriptions or references to associated texts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this document are the systematic collection, processing, and archiving of UAP observation data, the scientific investigation of anomalous phenomena, and the coordination of research efforts among various institutions and individuals. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious scientific inquiry into UAP, emphasizing rigorous methodology, data analysis, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The inclusion of declassified materials suggests an effort to make past research accessible and to build upon previous findings. The project "Setka AN" is presented as a comprehensive, long-term endeavor involving military, scientific, and potentially civilian participation.