LUFORO Bulletin - Vol 3 No 05 - Sep Oct 1962

Magazine Overview

Title: LUFORO BULLETIN
Issue: Vol.III No.5
Date: September-October 1962
Publisher: London Unidentified Flying Object Research Organization (LUFORO)
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

Contents

This issue of the LUFORO Bulletin provides a detailed look into UFO research and reporting from September-October 1962. It features announcements regarding LUFORO's annual general meeting and elections, a report on a specific UFO sighting, an analysis of UFO report evaluation, and a historical list of aeroplane disappearances.

LUFORO Announcements and Organization Details

The bulletin begins by outlining LUFORO's identity as a non-profit society founded in 1959, a member of the British U.F.O. Association. Its aims are to conduct unbiased scientific investigations, collect verifiable data, publicize findings, and promote cooperation among researchers. The issue lists the elected officials following the Third Annual General Meeting on November 24th, 1962, including President G.F.N. Knewstub, Vice-President L.G. Cramp, and Bulletin Editor G.N.P. Stephenson, along with various other committee members and departmental heads.

It also mentions that the Librarian, R.G. Wyld, has back numbers of the magazine available for purchase. The address for LUFORO is provided as 69, Cranbourne Road, Northwood, Middlesex, England.

Woman in Car "Buzzed" by Flying Saucer

A significant report details an incident on September 13th, 1962, involving Mrs. A. Myra Jones of Moira, Burton-on-Trent. While traveling in her car at approximately 11:20 p.m., she observed a luminous object hovering above the road at telegraph-pole height. Mrs. Jones described the object as larger than the car, following them, with a rounded underside and a cone-shaped top, appearing to be tilted. It was aluminium-colored, seemed to revolve slowly, and was observed for about 30 seconds. The object then disappeared with a swishing noise. The sighting was investigated by LUFORO's local investigator, Mr. W. Frankland, who concluded that Mrs. Jones did indeed observe a UFO. The incident was reported in the press, including "The Times" and the "Daily Mirror".

Strange Phenomenon Over Lancashire

Another report describes an event on the evening of August 4th, 1962, in Lancashire. Mr. Richard A. Bury and his companions observed a peculiar flying object from their car. Initially orange, the object deepened to a dark red, oscillated vertically, and then split into two parts. The objects rapidly diminished in size, then regained their original size, appearing like crescents of a waning moon before disappearing after about five minutes. Local residents confirmed seeing "something" they referred to as "fire in the sky". The report includes a sketch of the object in its original form and notes the time of sighting as 10:40 p.m.

Red Discs Over Nelson, Lancs.

On September 8th, 1962, Mrs. E. Jordan of Nelson, Lancashire, reported seeing "two red objects" in the sky around 6:40 a.m. She described them as saucer-shaped, hovering, and glowing. Before her husband could witness them, the objects "swooped down and disappeared quickly." Mrs. Jordan perceived them as solid and a source of light, with well-defined edges, having an apparent diameter of a penny.

Evaluating U.F.O. Reports

John Cleary-Baker contributes a detailed article on the methodology of evaluating UFO reports. He emphasizes the need for skepticism and a systematic approach to break down sightings into known categories (natural phenomena, aircraft, etc.) or the 'unknown' category. Cleary-Baker estimates that approximately 20% of reports are casual and scrappy, 20% are balloons/aircraft, 20% meteorological, 20% astronomical, 5% miscellaneous, and 5% hoaxes/hallucinations, leaving about 10% in the 'unknown' category. He further subdivides the 'unknown' into those with unusual features (2-3%) and those that appear to be "FLYING MACHINES OF AN UNKNOWN TYPE, GUIDED OR PILOTED BY INTELLIGENT OPERATORS" (7-8%). He discusses the difference between illusions and delusions and warns against the "Saucer Cult" that can discredit serious research.

Disappearances of Aeroplanes

This section provides a chronological list of aeroplane disappearances from 1913 to 1952, including details such as date, pilot/aeroplane, departure location, region of disappearance, and reference sources (e.g., newspaper articles, case files). This list appears to be a compilation of historical cases that may have unexplained elements.

The Alex Birch Photograph

The bulletin examines the Alex Birch photograph, which LUFORO considers unique. The negative has been examined by photographic experts and confirmed as genuine, showing a formation of UFOs with detail, not just light circles. The article includes analysis of drawings derived from the photograph, discussing its structure and the potential size and arrangement of the objects depicted.

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 scientific methodology and critical evaluation. LUFORO positions itself as a serious research organization aiming for unbiased investigation and the collection of verifiable data. The editorial stance, particularly in John Cleary-Baker's article, advocates for a rigorous, skeptical approach to UFO reports, distinguishing between misidentifications, hoaxes, hallucinations, and genuine unknowns, while cautioning against sensationalism and the formation of cult-like followings.

This issue of the LUFORO Bulletin, dated September-October 1962, Volume II, continues its in-depth examination of UFO phenomena, with a significant portion dedicated to the analysis of the Alex Birch photograph. The publication also features reports on various sightings, contactee claims, and organizational news within the UFO research community.

The Alex Birch Photograph Analysis

The article "The Alex Birch Photograph continued" delves into a detailed, diagrammatic analysis of the Birch photograph. Figures III, IV, V, VII, IX, and X are presented to illustrate mathematical relationships, perspectives, and reconstructions of the sighting. Fig. III illustrates mathematical type relationships by drawing lines connecting the outer three bubbles to a center point, noting that Image I bubbles have spacings that fit over Image II bubbles. The author suggests that the straight line aspect of Fig. II might have been captured by the camera from any point in the vicinity, with the light organized by a force field.

Fig. IV offers a different perspective, showing the UFOs from above, based on simple projection. It highlights apparent straight line effects and center-edge relationships, comparing them to random arrangements of pennies. The analysis notes that unit positions worked out by E.R. Smith tend to confirm distances, but the soft edges of the images limit categorical accuracy.

Fig. V presents a reconstruction of the Birch sighting. The shape of Image V is found to correspond to a small kidney-shaped section of Dome No. I, differing from the shape of the rest of the formation. The relative positions of the images are described, with No. V half a diameter below No. I and a quarter diameter to its left, and No. I half a diameter below No. II and tilted forwards. The "center edge factor" in three "bubbles" (termed energy nodes) is highlighted, along with the edge of radiation image IV and the reconstructed edge of image III.

Fig. VII shows the perspective method of establishing levels, and Fig. IX provides an elevation from the side, illustrating levels and relationships using rings. It notes that the axis of image I is tilted approximately 10° to the horizontal axis of image II.

Fig. X shows the relationship of images I & II to the boys and their camera. The axis of image I is in a plane pointing at the camera lens, indicating a complete profile. The author discusses sight lines and angles of view, suggesting that Image I's tilt might be to provide vision in advance of the boys. Fig. VIII is referenced for its illustration of the superstructure alignment.

The article concludes by mentioning the Air Ministry's opinion that the images might be ice crystals, a conclusion the author finds questionable but acknowledges the immutable laws governing matter and light scattering.

UFO Sightings and Reports

Stephen Darby-shire Sighting: The bulletin recounts a 1954 incident where Stephen Darby-shire photographed a UFO on a cloudy day. The author posits that space visitors might be providing evidence to younger individuals less likely to fabricate it.

Robert Todd Contact Claim: A Californian gentleman named Robert Todd claims a contact experience. While getting water, he saw a glow, ventured into a field, and observed a large, circular flying object hovering about six feet off the ground. A human-like figure in black emerged, drew a diagram of the saucer's interior in the dust, and then returned to the craft, which zoomed away. Investigators from the Hawk Research Society found footprints, including feminine-like prints, and made plaster casts. Harry Siebert, after interviewing Todd, noted "several flaws" in the story.

"Saucers" Over Kansas & Oklahoma: On August 2, 1962, Capt. Jack Metzker, a Central Airlines pilot, and other witnesses sighted unidentified flying objects flying at high speed over Kansas and Oklahoma. The objects were described as extremely bright, with dazzling glows. Investigations were initiated by North American Air Defense Command and ATIC. Capt. Metzker reported the objects were flying faster than anything he had ever seen.

Monsters Step Out From Flying Saucer: A report from Goya, Argentina, details an incident where two beings, about two meters tall, reddish, with enormous eyes and anthropoid form, descended from a luminous object. They made signs to stop a car, causing the doctor and his wife to flee. A lorry driver confirmed seeing three beings from the flying saucer.

Dolphins - Man's Link With The Martians?: A news item from "The Times" reports that the United States Space Agency awarded a contract to investigate dolphins as part of a study in communication between humans and other species that may live on distant planets. Dr. John Lilly is leading this investigation in Miami, Florida.

Project OMZA: From 1960-61, Project OMZA operated in the USA under Dr. W.D. Drake, aiming to establish communication with extraterrestrials via radio waves. The article also mentions past suggestions of using huge geometrical designs in the Sahara or Siberia for communication.

Letters to the Editor:

• T.W. Powell (Hounslow, Middx): Reports a sighting on March 14th, near London Airport, of a brilliantly luminous cylindrical object flying at fantastic speed in a north-westerly direction, glowing vivid green and disappearing within seconds. The observer, a Civil Servant with keen eyes, is familiar with aircraft and states this was unlike anything he had seen before.
• John Pettrick (Halifax, Yorks): Recounts a sighting in the Autumn of 1956, around 4:30 p.m., of a disc-shaped machine gliding slowly with a humming noise. It was dull grey-black with a raised dome-like top, estimated at 300 ft altitude and 40-50 ft diameter. The duration was two seconds.

Events and Meetings

The British U.F.O. Association Convention: Held on September 22nd at Kensington Central Library, the convention was attended by over 200 UFO enthusiasts. Mr. G.N.P. Stephenson, Chairman of LUFORO, spoke optimistically about a new seriousness in public attitudes towards UFOs and called for greater cooperation. Mr. Graham F.N. Knewstub outlined the histories of member societies. Guest speaker Leonard G. Cramp lectured on Science and the UFO. A highlight was a speech by 14-year-old Alex Birch, detailing how he photographed five UFOs. The convention concluded with a showing of photographs, slides, and cine films.

Future Meetings:

• January 5, 1963: Egerton Sykes to speak on gravitation research at Kensington Central Library.
• February 2, 1963: Mr. J. Cleary-Baker to present "Flying Saucers in History", suggesting UFOs existed before 1947.
• March: A meeting with Mr. Waveney Girvan is anticipated.

Editorial and Organizational Notes

The Editor apologizes for the delay in issuing the Bulletin due to the extensive work involved in typing and duplicating. The possibility of a professionally printed Journal for the British U.F.O. Association is being considered, which would require individual membership and a charge of £1. Members are asked to express their willingness to support this.

Errata: Corrections are listed for previous issues, including misspellings of place names and dates.

Scientific Research Meetings: Information is provided about a talk by Mr. G. Elliott on Aims and Methods in the Study of UFOs and UFO Detection and Non-Detection on Radar, to be held at the Feathers Hotel, Ealing Broadway, on December 8, 1962.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The LUFORO Bulletin consistently explores the analytical and observational aspects of UFO phenomena. There is a strong emphasis on detailed examination of photographic evidence, as seen in the extensive analysis of the Alex Birch photograph. The publication also provides a platform for witness accounts of sightings and contact experiences, ranging from the mundane to the extraordinary. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various claims and investigations while maintaining a degree of critical assessment, as evidenced by the skepticism towards the Air Ministry's ice crystal explanation and the noted flaws in the Robert Todd claim. The bulletin also reflects the growing efforts towards professionalization and organization within the UFO research community, with discussions about a unified journal and cooperative efforts between societies and government bodies. The underlying theme is the persistent mystery of UFOs and the ongoing human endeavor to understand them, whether through scientific analysis, eyewitness testimony, or even speculative connections to other fields like dolphin communication.

This document is the Chairman's Annual Report for 1962 from the London Unidentified Flying Object Research Organisation (LUFORO). It was adopted at the Third Annual General Meeting on November 24th, 1962. The report details significant organizational developments, particularly the formation of a national federation for UFO research in Britain.

Formation of the British U.F.O. Association

The report begins by recounting the Chairman's initiative in June 1962 to convene a meeting of delegates from six British UFO societies. This meeting resulted in the drafting of a Constitution for the British U.F.O. Association, with two primary objectives:

a. To coordinate investigation and promote research into 'Unidentified Flying Object' phenomena.
b. To disseminate knowledge and facilitate the exchange of information on this subject.

The Association was officially inaugurated on September 22nd, 1962. LUFORO was a founder member, alongside other prominent groups such as the British Flying Saucer Bureau, the Anglo-Polish J.F.O. Research Club, the Tyneside U.F.O. Society, the Scottish U.F.O. Research Society, the Stratford-on-Avon U.F.O. Group, the Direct Investigation Group on Aerial Phenomena, and the Cheltenham Flying Saucer Group.

LUFORO had the honor of hosting the convention for the Association's inauguration in London. The event was well-attended and received considerable publicity in the press.

LUFORO's Vision and the National Federation

The report emphasizes that forming a national federation of UFO societies has always been LUFORO's intention since its inception. This achievement is presented as a source of pride for the founders, demonstrating the potential that can be realized with a growing membership and the initial efforts of a small group of enthusiasts. The Chairman expresses confidence that all members will share this sense of accomplishment now that a nationwide Association for the investigation of Unidentified Flying Objects has been established.

Operational Challenges and Proposed Solutions

Previously, LUFORO had to operate on a national scale independently, enrolling members across the country and directing investigations of sighting reports regardless of their distance from London. While this was achieved successfully through voluntary effort by a small nucleus of active members, the strain was becoming significant. With the formation of the Association, the plan is to delegate responsibilities to other societies to administer their respective regions. This regional approach is expected to lead to quicker and more efficient investigation of sighting reports while reducing the administrative burden on the London-based group.

Proposed Journal and Membership Structure

A key proposal for achieving the required coordination is for all societies to enroll individual members of the Association. In return, the Association would publish its own Journal as a privilege of membership. This would necessitate altering LUFORO's constitution to allow individuals who become members of the British U.F.O. Association to be eligible for LUFORO membership. It would also mean incorporating the 'LUFORO Bulletin' into the Association's Journal to avoid duplication of work and cost.

The Association would finance the administrative expenses incurred by LUFORO and other societies involved in regional organization. This scheme aims to make the publication of a professionally printed Journal more financially viable, as societies would help enroll individual members. As the Association's Council appointed the LUFORO Chairman as Secretary of the Association, he would be in charge of the Journal, ensuring it aligns with LUFORO's logical approach and policy of objective reporting.

Each member would receive the Journal as part of an annual membership fee of £1, payable to the Association. Members would be encouraged to correspond with and report sightings to the specific member society or branch administering their area.

Upon completion of an investigation, the society or branch would forward a detailed report to the Secretary. These reports, if suitable, would be prepared for publication in the Journal and indexed and filed at LUFORO's Reference Library on behalf of the Association.

Future Aspirations and the UFO Enigma

The report expresses hope for the establishment of many new branches throughout the country in the coming years, minimizing administrative work for any single group and allowing the Association to expand efficiently. The ultimate goal is to form a truly International Association of all cooperating investigative UFO organizations, enabling comprehensive research on a global scale to better understand UFOs.

The report reflects on the fifteen years of public interest in flying saucers and other unidentified flying objects. It notes the proliferation of UFO groups worldwide, many of which have since folded. The author observes that those who accepted the reality of UFOs often stopped there, while skeptics allowed their disbelief to hinder serious research. This has led to a polarized debate between 'believers' and skeptics, often characterized by emotional arguments rather than scientific inquiry.

Towards Objective Reporting

The Chairman asserts that the vast majority of people in Britain desire an unbiased analysis of UFO facts, in line with scientific tradition. LUFORO was formed three years prior with this aim, and the press has consistently provided positive publicity without criticism.

A common argument among some UFO supporters is the claim of a worldwide government cover-up regarding UFOs. However, the report states that LUFORO has found no evidence of a top government policy of secrecy. While acknowledging that some government officials may have reached firm conclusions about the existence of non-terrestrial UFOs, the report suggests that any official with earth-shaking evidence would be cautious about revealing it without assurance of its serious consideration and the maintenance of secrecy.

The report also points out that official spokesmen commenting on UFOs often lack specialized interest and expertise. Their initial explanations for sightings are frequently proven wrong by subsequent information, leading them to conclude that the remaining unexplained sightings could also be explained if more information were available.

However, the report emphasizes that there are limits to the variation in descriptions of aerial objects. Different types of objects possess distinct basic characteristics that can be identified by an expert, even from brief reports. Members of the same type of object tend to resemble each other more closely than they resemble members of different types.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The Chairman concludes by expressing confidence that as the proposed system gets underway, members will be able to engage with research aspects that interest them. He highlights the inspiration found in studying UFOs and believes that with a united effort from active members and continued support, success is assured.

The report is signed by G.N.P. Stephenson, Chairman, and states that it was printed and published by the London Unidentified Flying Object Research Organisation at 12, Dorset Road, Cheam, Sutton, Surrey, England.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this report is the professionalization and organization of UFO research in the United Kingdom. The editorial stance is one of advocating for a systematic, objective, and evidence-based approach to studying UFO phenomena. There is a clear desire to move beyond emotional debates and establish a credible, scientific framework for investigation. The formation of the British U.F.O. Association represents a significant step towards achieving this goal, emphasizing cooperation, information sharing, and a structured methodology. The report also touches upon the historical context of UFO sightings and the persistent public fascination with the subject, while cautioning against unsubstantiated claims and promoting a balanced perspective.