LUFORO Bulletin - Vol 3 No 01 - Jan Feb 1962

Magazine Overview

Title: LUFORO BULLETIN
Issue: Vol. III No. 1
Date: January-February 1962 (Issued March 12th, 1962)
Publisher: London Unidentified Flying Object Research Organization (LUFORO)
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

This issue of the LUFORO Bulletin provides an update on the organization's activities and presents detailed accounts of recent UFO sightings, alongside an editorial discussing the principles of UFO investigation.

Editorial: Do you believe in Flying Saucers?

The editorial addresses the common misconception that one must be either a "believer" or a total skeptic regarding Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs). It argues that the most sound approach for a UFO researcher is to be both a believer and a skeptic simultaneously. The piece cautions against naive self-deception, which would lead one to believe every report is of an unknown nature, and against unwarranted skepticism that dismisses all reports without genuine study. The editorial notes that the percentage of "unknown" reports varies among researchers, typically ranging from 5% to 30%. It clarifies that a decrease in the percentage of unknowns does not necessarily mean a decrease in the absolute number of unknown reports, using an example of 30% of 200 reports versus 10% of 1,400 reports. The term "UFO" is defined as an unknown object, with "Flying Saucer" being the popular name. The editorial then outlines five key questions an investigator should consider when determining if a report relates to an unknown phenomenon:

1. Does the witness's description correspond to any known object or phenomenon?
2. If basic features match known objects, can discrepancies be accounted for by the witness's unfamiliarity, shortness of observation, unusual light conditions, perception disabilities, imperfect perception or imagination, emotional state, or memory distortion?
3. Were there unusual atmospheric or artificial conditions that could explain the observation?
4. Does the witness have any psychological instability or peculiarity that could cause a hallucination or delusion?
5. Does the witness have a motive for perpetrating a hoax or exaggerating?

If all five questions are answered "NO," the sighting can be justifiably classified as a "UFO." The process of answering these questions helps build an accurate picture of the observed object. The reliability of an investigator's findings can be tested by comparing results from different investigators or by examining photographic or film evidence. The editorial acknowledges that thorough investigation is not always possible, and researchers often rely on their knowledge and experience, with statistical sampling and comparison to "knowns" being crucial for analysis.

UFO SLOWS CAR IN BUCKINGHAMSHIRE

This section details a report from Ronald Wildman, aged 34, of Luton, concerning a sighting on February 9th, 1962, at 3:30 AM. A party, including Dr. B.E. Finch, Mr. R.R. Russell, and Dr. G.G. Doel, interviewed Mr. Wildman. While driving a Vauxhall Victor to deliver it in Swansea, he encountered a large object hovering above the Ivinghoe-Tring road. The object was estimated to be 30-40 feet across, with a curved upper surface and a straight lower margin, featuring dark, squarish portholes. The UFO moved ahead of his car at approximately 20 mph, restricting his speed. After about 50 yards, the object passed over trees, causing frost to fall on his car like rain or hail. A ring of vapor then appeared along the object's lower margin. The UFO then accelerated forwards, upwards, and to the right at a "fantastic speed" and disappeared. Mr. Wildman, who was not previously interested in UFOs and was skeptical, reported the incident to the police and was visibly shaken. The investigating party covered the stretch of road, searched the area for signs, and conducted tests for magnetic fields and radioactivity, all of which proved negative. They interviewed local residents, none of whom had seen the object. Possible explanations for the object's interest in the area included a nearby cement works, a rocket research station, a meteorological station, or a small drinking water reservoir. Mr. Wildman ruled out conventional explanations like clouds, balloons, gliders, hallucinations, or hoaxes, stating he had not been drinking and was of a steady, reliable type. He heard no sound above his car's noise. The investigating party concluded that Mr. Wildman was truthful and had seen a flying object of unknown type and origin.

BELFAST SIGHTING

This report, from Northern Ireland Representative Mr. T. Thompson, details a sighting by Mr. W. Page, an electronics engineer, on February 9th, 1962, around 8:15 PM. While returning home in Belfast, Mr. Page observed an unusual object in the sky, approximately due West. The object was described as not quite as large as the full moon, with a circular center emitting a soft luminous glow, surrounded by a bright white light revolving clockwise around the inner blue "core." The movement was slow, with several revolutions observed. The object traversed the sky from West to East at an elevation of 70-80 degrees and then slowly disappeared, apparently ascending. No noise was apparent. Mr. Page, familiar with many types of aircraft, stated the object resembled nothing he had ever seen before and its performance was inconsistent with conventional aircraft. Another witness, a girl, briefly discussed the incident with Mr. Page. This witness, generally skeptical of UFOs, now believes there may be substance to alleged sightings, though she is hesitant to subscribe to the interplanetary hypothesis. A sketch of the object by Mr. Page is included, showing the central glowing part and the revolving light.

Chairman's Annual Report 1961

This section, though mentioned in the contents, is not provided in the scanned pages.

Activities Over Essex: June 30th - July 1st 1961

This section, though mentioned in the contents, is not provided in the scanned pages.

Report from Cransford, Suffolk

This section, though mentioned in the contents, is not provided in the scanned pages.

British Isles Sightings During Last Few Days of August 1961

This section, though mentioned in the contents, is not provided in the scanned pages.

Book Review: Planetenmenschen Besuchen Unsere Erde

This section, though mentioned in the contents, is not provided in the scanned pages.

Reports: Swansea - 20th November 1961; Bolton - 16th January 1962

This section, though mentioned in the contents, is not provided in the scanned pages.

Future Features

The bulletin lists anticipated features for future issues, including selected overseas reports, an analysis of fireballs, a report on an unidentified missile recovered from Reading, defense implications of UFOs, official policy, latest news, letters to the editor, research progress reports, and a review of "Flying Saucers and the Three Men" by Albert K. Bender.

Organizational Information

Page 2 provides a comprehensive list of LUFORO's officers and representatives, including the President (G.F.N. Knewstub), Vice-President (L.G. Cramp), Chairman (G.N.P. Stephenson), Vice-Chairman (G.G. Doel), Honorary Secretary (Miss M.D. Holmes), Honorary Treasurer (L.G. Moore), and various departmental secretaries and representatives for different regions like Hong Kong and the USA. It also lists the organization's bankers as Barclays Bank Limited and a Special Consultant, J. Cleary-Baker. Information about the LUFORO Reference Library's opening hours (Saturdays, 4-6 PM, from March 31st, 1962) and its location near Hampstead Heath Railway Station is provided. Details for London Meetings are referenced to page 22.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the reporting and investigation of UFO sightings, with a strong emphasis on rigorous methodology and critical analysis. The editorial stance advocates for a balanced, skeptical yet open-minded approach to UFO research, urging investigators to systematically evaluate evidence and witness testimony. The organization, LUFORO, positions itself as a serious research body aiming to conduct investigations on a higher level than previously attempted.

This document is the Chairman's Annual Report for 1961 from the London Unidentified Flying Object Research Organisation (LUFORO). It was adopted at the Second Annual General Meeting on December 2nd, 1961. The report details the organization's progress, activities, and outlook during the past year.

Organizational Growth and Publicity

The report highlights LUFORO's rise from a small, struggling organization to one that is well-known and respected throughout the British Isles. The organization received considerable publicity, including encouraging remarks in articles in The West London Press, The Guardian, and other British newspapers, which noted LUFORO's objective approach. A publication of detailed reports by J. Cleary-Baker in August proved of considerable interest. The BBC broadcast a report on LUFORO's September Brains Trust and appealed for more accurate reports of 'objective' sightings. Mr. T. Thompson, the Northern Ireland Representative, also participated in an interview on Ulster Television about LUFORO.

Membership has grown significantly since the First Annual General Meeting on September 10th, 1960. The organization enrolled one hundred and thirty-three new members and twenty new associate members, bringing the total membership to three hundred and fifteen. Members are located in various parts of the British Isles and in a dozen countries worldwide. The organization hopes to establish new international links in the coming year.

Support and Facilities

The Chairman expresses gratitude to all who have supported and encouraged the organization. The report emphasizes the importance of enthusiasm among those carrying out the work, which is sustained by the keen support of the members. A significant challenge identified is the need for a headquarters. While a permanent central office is not financially feasible at present, the organization is pleased to announce the opening of an office in Hampstead every Saturday in the New Year. This office will provide an opportunity for members to assist with clerical work and research, and a library will be established there. The appearance of such facilities is made possible by generous donations to the organization's funds. The Chairman is confident that as finances improve and activities increase, LUFORO will expand and eventually be in a position to open a central office six days a week.

Meetings and Ufology

London Meetings have regularly featured a fine selection of speakers and a wide variety of interesting ideas. The subject of Ufology is viewed from many angles, with a particular emphasis on attracting those with a logical or scientific mind to contribute fresh ideas and suggestions.

National and International Federation

In recent months, LUFORO has been in contact with leaders of other UFO societies in the British Isles, and there is agreement on the formation of a National Federation without delay. LUFORO is privileged to play a leading role in this initiative, which is expected to secure support and eventually lead to an International Federation with the patronage of UNESCO. The report states that UFOs are a subject of interest and concern to all peoples, and a world-wide organization capable of determining the nature, origin, and purpose of these mysterious objects would be an invaluable contribution to human knowledge.

Investigation and Research Methods

LUFORO's ongoing mission is to investigate all reliable reports and study research problems with care and logic. The report notes the public's general lack of information regarding UFO activity. In the summer, the organization received an increasing number of reports, approximately one hundred per month, though only a small proportion could be published in the "LUFORO Bulletin." Many reports are vague or explicable as familiar objects like aircraft or meteors, but a core group of reports cannot be attributed to known objects.

To classify reports authoritatively, LUFORO must familiarize itself with the characteristics of all airborne objects, including the latest missile and aircraft developments. The organization's primary object is to build a picture of what is seen from verbal and written descriptions, as direct examination of UFOs is not possible. Early in the year, a detailed questionnaire was developed, and eighty-five forms were returned, helping to identify known objects and gather information on UFO sightings.

While standard forms facilitate correlation, each report is treated on its own merits, requiring careful consideration of individual human factors and potential discrepancies in perception and memory. The report also mentions the increasing number of photographs and occasional motion films of UFOs, and the hope to establish a reliable method for assessing their authenticity. A specialized Section for photograph investigation is being considered.

Contact Investigation Section

Several months prior, a separate section, the "Contact Investigation Section," was formed under the leadership of Mr. R. Shephard to investigate claims of occupants emerging from UFOs or encounters with extraterrestrial beings. The report notes knowledge of two dozen such cases in the British Isles, though many are of doubtful authenticity.

Explanations and Statistical Analysis

The report acknowledges that UFOs are often described as controlled craft of unknown origin. However, until this is demonstrated, they must be regarded individually and collectively. Four main explanations are considered: unknown natural phenomena, secret terrestrial devices, craft from another world, or paranormal phenomena. The complexity of multiple explanations is noted, but the possibility of statistical analysis to identify types and predict appearances is raised.

To conduct valid statistical analysis, a considerable quantity of detailed reports from diverse global circumstances, conditions, and witnesses is required. The report cautions that statistics can create misleading impressions, citing how media publicity can prompt more reports. Conversely, jocular editorial comments can deter witnesses. Therefore, hidden factors that might invalidate conclusions must always be considered.

LUFORO's aim is "unbiased scientific investigation." While acknowledging that true scientific investigation may be disputed as unbiased, the organization strives to ensure its studies are guided by knowledge and logic, not emotion or wishful thinking, aiming for satisfaction and achievement.

Activities Over Essex: June 30th - July 1st 1961

This section details a report prepared by A.J. Watts, B.Sc., F.R.Met.S., following the sifting of reports and eyewitness accounts of UFO activities centered northwest of Halstead. The report offers a possible explanation for the observed phenomena.

General Synopsis:

Between 2130 and 2140 on June 30th, a craft estimated at 250 feet long was largely stationary about 2-3 miles northwest of Halstead. It exhibited two lights of extreme brilliance, estimated to be 2-4 times brighter than Jupiter, at an altitude of approximately 13,000 feet. At the end of the hovering period, the craft turned north, made a noise akin to a turbo-prop, and flew away in a climbing arc. One witness described it as having portholes, consistent with descriptions in "Flying Saucers Have Landed." The general impression was of a blue-grey body, and one witness noted a wing. The lights faded as the object accelerated.

Subsequent observations between 2130 and 2210 included pairs of lights seen over the Grays area and singly over Grays, possibly at 40,000 feet. Another pair was observed at 2140 traveling east, likely over Dedham, also at great height. Objects seen over Hertfordshire might have originated from the same source.

Between 2210 and 2225, a ring of 6-9 lights was observed in the approximate area where the carrier craft had been, possibly at around 40,000 feet or higher. This is interpreted as a fan-out from a central point to perform tasks, followed by a return to rendezvous.

Further Observations and Speculations:

Some 'saucers' were observed until at least 0320 the next morning. Two hovering lights, described as the size of tea-plates, were seen from Kelvedon towards Mersea Island. The report speculates that 'saucers' have a limited range, possibly due to physiology, and that the appearance of multiple saucers suggests a carrier craft launched them. The lights were described as red or orange during accelerated motion and yellow-white during hovering, suggesting the light is essential to the hovering process and related to increasing energy or temperature.

List of Witnesses and Verbatim Reports:

Upwards of 15 different accounts were received from the Essex County Standard. Letters were received from numerous individuals, including D.J. Burton, E.J. Hunt, R.H. Callan, an anonymous lady from Colchester, R. Tyler, H.K. Ranson, Miss C.A. Lewis, Mr. and Mrs. H.H. Boreham, Mrs. S. Mayhew, Mark Hughes, and Mrs. S. Wilby. Phone calls were received from Mr. and Mrs. W.F. Smith and V.M. Nice. Other witnesses included Brother to Mr. Smith, Peter Willimott, and Mr. and Mrs. A.J. Watts.

Verbatim Quotes:

Several verbatim accounts are included:

1. A witness driving near Stoke noticed two bright orange-yellow lights moving north, which then disappeared behind trees, followed by a dark object moving away. The object was described as conventional in outline, possibly a bomber or airliner size.
2. Lights were seen low in the western sky over Tiptree, appearing larger than tea-plates, and faded.
3. A couple saw twin lights similar to those described, which disappeared and reappeared, and also saw what they took to be an airplane flying away.
4. Another witness saw twin lights that faded and reappeared as a blue-grey body.
5. A report from Wethersfield described a large personnel transporter with lights that suddenly disappeared and reappeared, turning on and off.
6. A witness described a piston-engined aircraft flying at 8-10,000 feet, with twin lights from the wings, making a left-banked turn north. This witness suggested it might have been an aircraft making a safety maneuver before landing.
7. An object approaching Colchester from the northwest showed two bright lights, then turned northeast with green and red lights.

Further Investigation and Analysis:

Reference is made to other observations from Hertfordshire and the October 1961 "LUFORO Bulletin." The report details further investigation into witness accounts, including measurements and confirmations. The size of the object was confirmed by one witness's measurement. The noise observation is considered significant, suggesting a high noise level during acceleration. The possibility of it being an aircraft is discussed, with counterarguments regarding visibility of engines at range and the nature of airborne searchlights.

Another account describes a piston-engined aircraft and suggests the lights were landing lights. This is questioned due to the apparent size of a Mosquito at altitude and range, and the nature of airborne searchlights.

A report from Colchester describes lights changing color. A cluster of lights was seen near Thorne Street, disappearing and reappearing, and by the time the witness reached home, it had disappeared.

Mr. and Mrs. Boreham reported a ring of 6-9 stationary lights observed between 2210 and 2225, likely above dense cirrus clouds at over 40,000 feet, suggesting a 'roost' of saucers.

The Smith family's report, initially thought to be of the carrier craft, was later investigated as being in the direction of Grays, involving two stationary, brilliant orange-red lights that changed to yellow-white.

An observation of two brilliant lights in the northern sky, high and traveling east, is described. One light faded, then the other. The witness was certain it was not an aircraft and heard no sound.

Hughes reported lights at 50-plus degrees above the horizon at 2140, possibly two objects, not the carrier craft.

Two lights, quite distant apart, were observed at 3:20 AM, stationary for 10-15 minutes.

Another report describes a light the size of a tea-plate due east over Mersea, and another halfway between north and east.

Friends saw twin lights, approximately 10 PM, suspended in the sky over the Earls Colne area, which disappeared and reappeared, then moved off quickly.

Further investigation confirmed directions and described lights as orange-red, possibly changing color during motion.

Mr. Nice saw twin lights between 9:30-9:45 AM from Harlow, described as stationary and extremely brilliant, visible to the south and west, disposing of the searchlight idea. This, along with an observation from Tolleshunt D'Arcy, dismisses the theory of apparently stationary aircraft lights.

Conclusion

The report concludes by emphasizing that one must never assume that what one person has seen, another has seen identically. People claiming to have seen the same as you may not have done so, and only further investigation reveals the truth. The report contains truths recorded by ordinary people with no vested interest in proving or disproving the existence of flying saucers, along with speculations offered for reasoned argument.

The report is signed by A.J. Watts on November 3rd, 1961. Other observations were made from Hertfordshire, and readers are referred to the October 1961 "LUFORO Bulletin." A more detailed report with maps is planned for a later date.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this report are the growth and professionalization of LUFORO as an organization, the importance of rigorous and unbiased scientific investigation, the reliance on detailed witness testimony, and the exploration of various hypotheses for UFO phenomena. The editorial stance is one of cautious inquiry, emphasizing logic, evidence, and the need for further research, while acknowledging the public's interest and the potential significance of UFOs to human knowledge. There is a clear commitment to objective analysis and a desire to move beyond mere speculation towards verifiable data.

Title: Flying Saucer Review
Issue: Vol. 7, Issue 20
Date: 1962

This issue of Flying Saucer Review focuses on British Isles sightings during the latter part of August 1961, presenting a collection of witness reports and a book review.

Cransford, Suffolk Sighting (January 1960)

A report from Mr. S.P.O. Tipping details an observation made in January 1960 in Cransford, Suffolk. Mr. Watts, a poultryman, first noticed a bright object in the sky, which he initially thought was a parachute due to its lack of movement. After observing it for 10 minutes, Mr. Watts joined him, and they used binoculars to observe a bright round object at a great height for 15-20 minutes. They noted flashing lights as the sunlight caught the outside ring, which might have been revolving or shaking, while the center remained continuously bright. The object eventually moved North and disappeared behind clouds. Mr. Tipping's initial impression was a 'Flying Saucer,' but he later theorized it might have been a balloon with a large, flexible, and distorting gondola. He estimated the object's size as comparable to a V bomber at an altitude of 50,000 ft, visible through thin high cloud despite a strong North wind. The object was as bright as Venus.

August 1961 Sightings

G. Williams' Report

Continuing from a previous page, G. Williams reported an object that descended vertically from the sky, rose vertically, descended again, split into two, ascended, and then disappeared. This sequence of movements was described as being like a 'Yo-Yo' and was visible for approximately one minute.

Mrs. C. Fereday's Report (Walsall)

On Tuesday, August 29th, Mrs. C. Fereday of Walsall reported an observation at approximately 4 a.m. lasting 5 minutes. She described the object as a brilliant light with one long flame and many shorter ones, visible from her bedroom window even when she moved away. The sky was clear during this observation.

Doctor's Report (West Suffolk General Hospital)

On Thursday, August 31st, a doctor at West Suffolk General Hospital relayed a report from Mr. J. Gossington, a telephone operator. The witness observed something through an open window at 8:35 p.m. The report notes the observer's physical condition as 100% and alcohol nil.

Mrs. E. Lea's Report (Wolverhampton)

On Sunday, August 27th, at about 8 p.m., Mrs. E. Lea and her husband observed a long rectangular strip of brilliant light with a ring at one end. The phenomenon remained motionless in the North-west for about half an hour before fading from sight.

Northern Ireland Report

A letter to the editor of the 'Northern Whig' from an amateur astronomer dated August 30th, 1961, described an observation on Monday, August 28th, at 5:17 a.m. While observing Venus and the Moon in clear visibility, three fast-moving objects appeared in a South-Easterly direction, brighter than Venus. Two objects followed closely, increasing their velocity and reducing the distance to the foremost object, suggesting control. The observer dismissed them as Sputniks due to their motion. The objects were circular and disappeared behind the Castlereagh Hills. The writer expressed a desire to contact someone who observed an object through a telescope.

Warwickshire and Walsall Reports

Returning to Warwickshire, England, on August 28th at about 5:18 a.m., Mr. George Parr of Walsall saw an object with a large incandescent flame at the rear travel swiftly from north to south. He noted what appeared to be fins along the side, and the object seemed to fall off. Mr. Banks Fearon, also from Walsall, corroborated this, stating the object carried three lights and flames shot from the back. After disappearing briefly, it reappeared and seemed to 'blow up,' with two lights extinguishing and one drifting towards the ground. Mr. D. St. John Howell provided these reports. Mrs. M. Whitehouse of Cheslyn Hay reported a similar event at 5:20 a.m., seeing two smaller pieces fall from a larger brilliant object.

Mr. George Williams' Report (Bridgnorth)

On Monday evening, August 28th, at 10:30 p.m., Mr. George Williams of Bridgnorth reported seeing a brilliant white light, like a ball, descending vertically while he was standing outside his front door.

Lawshall, Suffolk Sighting (August 29th, 1961)

Continued from page 19, this report describes an object observed above trees travelling 200-300 above the horizon. It made an abrupt right-angle turn and moved upwards to 40 degrees before disappearing. The speed was estimated at faster than any aeroplane (approx. 1300 mph). The shape was described as tadpole-like, with a tail, and brighter than stars. There was no sound, and the countryside was quiet. No other phenomena were noted. Contact with Lakenheath and Mildenhall (Weather Bureau control) revealed no radar contact and no balloons in the area. The duration of observation was 15 seconds. The witness, who had previous experience in R.A.F. signals and aircraft recognition, stated this sighting was 'Completely beyond me' and expressed skepticism about saucers.

Swansea Sighting (November 20th, 1961)

The 'Western Mail' reported on November 22nd, 1961, about Alan Williams, a 14-year-old from Swansea. He saw a strange object flash across the sky from the direction of Mumbles towards Port Talbot at 6:15 a.m. He described it as oval-shaped with two windows in front and a dome on top, with a number of long red flames behind, illuminating the whole thing. It was travelling very fast and disappeared in five to seven seconds, lacking wings or a tailfin, and was not an ordinary aircraft. Mrs. B.S. Blundell obtained this report and a sketch from the boy.

Bolton Sightings (January 16th, 1962)

An article from the Bolton Evening News on February 5th, 1962, referenced a statement by Mr. James Gee about seeing a 'Flying Saucer.' The article stated that J. Dawson and S. Livasidge also saw a strange object on the morning of Tuesday, January 16th, 1962, from a window facing south at approximately 8:45 a.m. This statement was credited to the Department of Pathology, Bolton Royal Infirmary.

Book Review: 'Planetenmenschen besuchen unsere Erde'

This section reviews a book by Herr Karl L. Veit, president of the German 'UFO-Studiengemeinschaft.' The book, titled 'Planetenmenschen besuchen unsere Erde' (translating to 'People from the planets visit the earth'), is presented as a potential handbook on the subject of flying saucers. It is 224 pages long and covers a wide range of topics, including historical UFO reports, the history of flight, lunar research, speech and food of space visitors, life in space, and lists of contacts and publications. The book includes 350 photographs from 19 countries and a chart of 289 UFO shapes. The primary disadvantage noted is that the book is written in German and costs DM 14.70 (about 23/-). The reviewer, F. Malcolm Bull of the Secretary Foreign Department, expresses hope for an English translation.

Meetings and Events

Brains Trust Meeting

A meeting was announced for Saturday, March 17th, at 7:30 p.m. at Caxton Hall. Readers in the London area were invited. The panel was to include the Editor of 'Flying Saucer Review,' Waveney Girvan, Desmond Leslie, and Gordon Creighton. Admission was 2/6 for members and 3/6 for others.

Future Meetings

Future meetings were scheduled: Saturday, April 14th, at 7:30 p.m. for a lecture by J. Cleary-Baker, and Saturday, June 9th, at 7:30 p.m. for a lecture by J.A.D. Wedd. Both lectures were to be held at Kensington Central Library, Phillimore Walk, W.8.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the documentation and reporting of unidentified aerial phenomena observed in the British Isles during 1961 and early 1962. The magazine presents a wide array of witness accounts, varying in detail and duration, from stationary objects to fast-moving, multi-part phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry and documentation, as evidenced by the detailed reports, the inclusion of a book review on the subject, and the promotion of related meetings and lectures. There is a clear effort to gather and disseminate information on UFO sightings, encouraging public participation and discussion within the UFO research community.