BUFORA Journal - Volume 01 No 08 - Spring 1966

Magazine Overview

Title: BUFORA JOURNAL AND BULLETIN
Issue: Vol. 1 No. 8
Date: Spring 1966
Publisher: BRITISH U.F.O. RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

This issue of the BUFORA JOURNAL AND BULLETIN, published in Spring 1966, presents a range of articles and reports from the British UFO Research Association. The cover features the journal's title prominently, along with an abstract illustration and publication details. The issue is dedicated to promoting scientific investigation into UFO phenomena.

Editorial

The editorial, titled "EDITORIAL," written by J. Cleary-Baker, Ph.D., challenges the prevailing attitudes within the UFO research community. The author draws a parallel between the historical conquest of Mexico by Cortés and the potential for UFO researchers to be misled by comfortable beliefs rather than objective evidence. He questions whether UFO researchers are acting as objective investigators or as 'believers' with doctrines to defend. The editorial highlights the "sinister incident at Diamantina in Brazil" on August 20th, 1962, where Rivalino Mafra da Silva was allegedly disintegrated by UFOs, as a case that has undergone thorough investigation and authentication, contrasting it with less substantiated "contactee" narratives. The author suggests that a "mental barrier" or "Censor" might prevent researchers from accepting uncomfortable facts about UFOs, potentially being ill-disposed towards humanity. He reflects on a lecture he gave where he suggested some UFOs might be piloted by malevolent beings, which was met with shock, likening it to a vicar preaching "Eskimo Nell."

The editorial further criticizes "pulpy, predigested thinking" on the UFO subject, particularly the assumption that the technical perfection of UFOs reflects a corresponding mental and spiritual eminence of their occupants. The author argues that technological advancement does not necessarily equate to spiritual advancement, using the example of the H-Bomb versus the sword. He raises the possibility of subtle control methods, such as mass hypnosis, being in operation. The piece concludes by pondering whether humanity, with its destructive tendencies like atomic annihilation, vivisection, and environmental pollution, is more deserving of consideration than the Aztecs were at the hands of the Spaniards, and speculates that Nature might be planning a lesson through an alien race less divorced from "Eternal Verities."

A Strange Story from Gallipoli

This article, extracted from the March 1966 issue of 'FLYING SAUCERS,' edited by Ray Palmer, recounts a strange incident that occurred on August 21st, 1915, during the final period of fighting on Hill 60, Sulva Bay, Gallipoli. The narrative describes several "loaf of bread" shaped, light-grey clouds hovering over Hill 60, which did not move despite a breeze. A similar, denser cloud was observed straddling a dry creek bed. A British Regiment, identified as the 1/4 Norfolk Regiment, marched into this ground-level cloud and disappeared without a trace. Approximately an hour later, this cloud lifted and joined the others, and all moved away northwards against the wind. The 1/4 Norfolk Regiment was subsequently posted as "missing." The article notes that after Turkey's surrender in 1918, British authorities demanded the return of the regiment, but Turkey claimed no knowledge of its capture or even its existence. The incident was witnessed by 22 men of the 1st Division Field Company, N.Z.E.F., from a vantage point of about 2,300 yards. The article includes a statement signed in 1965 by three witnesses who were present, attesting to the truth of the incident on its fiftieth anniversary. The editorial comment by J. C-B. acknowledges the witnesses' belief in the truth of their account and notes that records confirm their presence on Rhododendron Spur on the relevant date. However, he finds no official account to confirm or contradict the story. He mentions a British C-in-C's report of a "very mysterious thing" involving the disappearance of Colonel Sir H. Beauchamp's men on August 12th, but this involved the 5th Battalion of the Norfolks. Sir Ian Hamilton also noted a "strange mist" over Sulva Bay on August 21st. J. C-B. points out that the witnesses told their story fifty years later, under challenging battle conditions, which could affect reliability. He concludes that while the incident might involve a British unit vanishing into mist, and potentially confused with the August 12th incident, the possibility of UFO abduction under artificial fog, as seen in other cases, cannot be ruled out. His verdict is "Not Proven," suggesting further research is needed.

A Means of Detecting UFOs

This article by T. Thompson explores the feasibility of designing a device to detect the proximity of UFOs, focusing on their apparent electromagnetic (E.M.) aspect. The author suggests that a device could be designed to detect consistent characteristics of bona fide sightings. He references his analysis of the "Wildman case" of February 1962, where a static E.M. field might have affected a car's ignition coil. He also considers the possibility of a fluctuating E.M. field causing similar adverse effects. The article mentions an incident at Warminster in September 1965, where a car reportedly vibrated violently, and a sighting near Langenhoe, Essex, where a motorcycle's ignition and lights failed, suggesting an E.M. association. A. C. Purton's earlier work on "The UFO E.M. Frequency" is cited, suggesting a low frequency between 20-100 c/s. Thompson outlines essential requirements for a detector: sensitivity to weak alternating E.M. fields (10c-10 kc/s) or moving static fields, ability to resolve vertical or horizontal polarization, and an omnidirectional characteristic for the scanner. The author describes a prototype device he constructed using assorted radio and TV parts. The device uses a transistorized 2-stage preamp with a 64 db gain, fitted inside search coils. It is designed to detect a minute current induced by a low-flying UFO's vertical polarization force field, which is then amplified. Horizontal polarization would induce currents in horizontal coils. The article details the components, including a 4-watt amplifier and speakers placed throughout the house for monitoring. It suggests that interested BUFORA members could contribute to developing the system further, including constructing larger coils, improving siting, enhancing gain, and using screened leads. The article proposes installing such detectors near "high density" zones like Warminster or in sparsely populated areas with poor visual sighting conditions.

The Problems of Exobiology - Part 2

This section continues a discussion on exobiology, though specific details are not fully legible from the provided scans. It appears to be a continuation of a previous article, delving into the scientific study of extraterrestrial life.

Book Review: ANATOMY OF A PHENOMENON

This review, by Lionel Beer, discusses Jacques Vallee's book "ANATOMY OF A PHENOMENON." The reviewer notes that Vallee holds degrees in mathematics and astronomy and has research experience in artificial satellites, microwave radio, radar technology, and computing science, including work on NASA's "Mars Map" project. The book is described as a serious, analytical look at the UFO phenomenon, avoiding sensationalism while still including sensational cases. Vallee is said to have "taken a hard cold look" at the evidence, metaphorically turning over the "fallow soil" of UFO evidence to break down misconceptions. The review mentions Vallee's exploration of the idea of Earth being "seeded with life from outside" and the probability of visitation by inter-galactic and local planetary beings, though it concludes that too many unknowns prevent firm conclusions. Vallee is noted for accepting certain types of "saucer pilots" but appears biased in dismissing "little green men," "giants," and "contacts of the 'Venusian' type." The review states that Vallee's work covers the modern era of UFO activity from 1946, using U.S.A.F. files, and concludes with cases from 1964. The book is praised for its index and 196-entry bibliography, making it valuable for novices. The reviewer recommends the book to serious students of ufology. The price is listed as 25/-, obtainable from the BUFORA Librarian.

Other Sections

Notes & Quotes: This section likely contains various short pieces of information, quotes, or brief observations related to UFOs.

"Warminster Week": This likely refers to a specific event or series of sightings that occurred in Warminster, a location mentioned in the "A Means of Detecting UFOs" article.

Saucer Books: This section probably lists or reviews other books related to UFOs.

References: A list of cited publications, including various BUFORA bulletins and F.S.R. (Flying Saucer Review) issues from 1962 to 1965.

Editorial Note: An editorial note by J. C-B. states that Mr. Thompson's manuscript for "A Means of Detecting UFOs" was submitted to two competent authorities who found the "device" practical. A circuit diagram is available upon request.

More Than 400 Objects in Orbit: A brief news item from the "Evening Standard" (27.5.66) reporting that over 400 pieces of man-made equipment were detected orbiting Earth, according to Mr. Merlyn Rees, Under Secretary for Defence (RAF).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO phenomena, the methodology of UFO research, and the presentation of historical and contemporary cases. The editorial stance, as articulated by J. Cleary-Baker, is one of advocating for rigorous, unbiased, and objective scientific investigation, cautioning against the pitfalls of wishful thinking and "believism" within the UFO community. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between well-documented cases and unsubstantiated narratives. The journal also highlights the importance of technological approaches to UFO detection and explores the broader implications of potential extraterrestrial contact, including scientific and philosophical considerations like exobiology. The inclusion of historical cases, such as the Gallipoli incident, suggests an interest in the long-term study of UFO-related events and their potential connection to unexplained phenomena throughout history.

This document is the "RESEARCH OFFICER'S ANNUAL REPORT" from the BRITISH U.F.O. RESEARCH ASSOCIATION, dated 27th November 1965. It provides a comprehensive analysis of UFO sightings and related phenomena based on the organization's extensive files.

UFO Sightings Analysis

The report begins by detailing the process of analyzing over 1,200 (possibly 1,500) UFO reports from the British Isles. The author, G. N. P. Stephenson, explains that reports describing known objects like meteors, satellites, or aircraft were excluded, leaving approximately 350 reports for further analysis. These remaining reports were then sorted into types or groups.

Daylight Sightings

In daylight, 37 reports described objects seen stationary in mid-air that suddenly moved away at incredible speed. Of these, 13 were circular with a dome. The remaining 24 had indistinguishable or varied shapes. The report notes that these objects did not leave trails. A specific instance involved two such objects seen resting on the sea in 1956 by a British submarine crew, accompanied by a buzzing sound.

Another 39 reports detailed other moving objects of unconventional shape seen in daylight. Twenty of these were circular with a dome. The shape generally remained consistent, with variations attributed to perspective. Of the 13 objects that sped away rapidly from a stationary position, some were described with sounds (swishing, buzzing) and features like transparent domes, windows, and legs.

The report suggests that features like noise, unchanging shape, hovering, and phenomenal acceleration without a trail point to machines controlled by unknown power.

Of the 20 objects that moved more slowly, three left trails, and some were associated with sounds (hissing, humming, buzzing).

Sausage or cigar-shaped objects were reported 8 times, with features distinguishing them from aircraft fuselages. Some had multiple divisions or windows. Only one of these suddenly sped away from a stationary position.

Nighttime Sightings

At night, 15 reports described sausage or cigar-shaped objects with several lights in a row, one of which sped away from a stationary position with a buzzing and clicking sound. Another 27 reports involved completely luminous sausage or cigar shapes, with 6 speeding away from stationary positions, one making a flapping sound.

Nighttime domed circular objects with rows of lights parallel to the base were reported 14 times. Two of these suddenly sped away from a stationary position, and some were associated with sounds like swishing, humming, or droning.

Eight completely luminous domed objects, distinct from planets, were also noted, with three suddenly speeding away from stationary positions. One such object was reported to have landed in Essex, making a humming noise and causing a motorcycle engine to cut out.

Two very bright lights, one following the other, were reported about two dozen times. One such sighting in Scotland in February 1961 resulted in a scorched landing spot.

Nine reports described round or oval glowing objects with a band or ring across the middle, mostly orange or yellow, with one instance of a cine film taken in Sheffield in August 1962.

Single lights with definite halos were reported, with two of nine speeding away from stationary positions, one heard humming and another whirring.

Ten reports of single lights with trails were also noted, with two speeding away from stationary positions and no sound heard. These were sometimes reported by naval observers at sea.

Other nighttime reports included moonlike objects (6), humming sounds (1), zooming noises (1), siren-like sounds (1), heel-shaped objects (4), and rings or doughnuts (4).

UFO Landing Cases

The report summarizes over 200 worldwide landing cases, including near landings. In 54 cases, evidence was found, such as scorched grass, flattened grass, impressed ground, craters, holes, or deposited substances. "Electromagnetic effects" were reported in 4 landing and 7 near-landing cases, including car engine and radio failures. Radioactivity was detected in 5 U.S.A. cases.

Scorching was found in 14 cases, and flattened grass in 8. Landing sites were often circular, varying in diameter. Some cases involved indentations from supporting legs, and holes of various sizes were found. Objects have been reported landing on legs on 12 occasions since 1954.

Marks or craters similar to those found after observed landings were discovered on 12 occasions. The report suggests that the consistent variations in shape and size of affected areas and holes indicate numerous different models, possibly used for specific purposes, rather than a single earth-made machine.

Occupants and Craft Details

Regarding figures seen beside landed craft, 79 cases reported figures, with 14 where the object was hovering. Figures were often short (under 4ft.) or very tall, some resembling humans in special dress. Over half were seen at night.

Seventy-one other landings had no reported evidence or figures seen. Nine near landings were also noted.

Landed objects were often described as round, circular, or like an inverted saucer. A dozen landed objects were domed.

A variety of noises were reported from 21 cases, including whistling, buzzing, humming, hissing, and whirring, not consistently associated with specific shapes.

The variety of shapes, details, dimensions, sounds, unusual heights or appearances of occupants, extraordinary powers of acceleration, electromagnetic effects, radioactivity, and invisible propulsion suggest craft from other worlds.

Landing Report Distribution

Significant clusters of landing reports were noted in France (62 in 40 days, Sept-Oct 1954), the United States (12 in 40 days, April-May 1964), and worldwide (15 in 40 days, July-Aug 1965). Reports have been growing in number since 1952.

The author strongly recommends concentrating efforts on investigating landing sites and areas where UFOs are seen low, emphasizing the need for prompt action to detect radioactivity.

Exobiology: Life in the Solar System

This section, Part II of a series, discusses the possibility of life beyond Earth.

The Microsphere Bridge

Experiments by Professor Sydney Fox have formed microspheres by polymerizing amino acids, which then formed small microscopic spheres reminiscent of unicellular animals. This phenomenon is suggested as a possible demonstration of how life evolved from a primordial "soup."

From Soup to Man

Evolution is described as a complex process requiring immense time. The Earth's age is estimated at 4,500,000,000 years, with life appearing around 2,000,000,000 years ago. The evolution from simple organisms to complex creatures took approximately 2,000,000,000 years.

Life in the Solar System

Mercury: Not a promising abode for life. Its rotation period is about 59 days. The surface is moon-like with craters. Lack of synchronization suggests it may have been a satellite of Venus. Insufficient time for intelligent life evolution and lack of atmosphere make it unlikely. Attempts to find atmospheric absorption lines have been negative.

Venus: Has an atmosphere, but its surface conditions are unknown due to clouds. Temperature readings vary widely (400°C vs. -40°F). Ice crystals and water vapor have been detected, suggesting oxygen is present, a necessity for intelligent life. However, rapid atmospheric motion and potential wind erosion could hinder the evolution of higher animals. The possibility of low plant and animal life is not ruled out.

Mars: Known for its dark features and polar caps. Its size and gravity favor lighter animals. Martian days and seasons are comparable to Earth's. The surface may be igneous rock. Temperatures range from +27°C to -10°C. Carbon dioxide is plentiful, but oxygen and water are scarce. Polar caps are frosty. Prospects for animal life are poor, but vegetable life signs are present, with dark regions turning greener in spring, possibly due to melting polar caps. Survival experiments suggest low life-forms can adapt to oxygen- and water-starved environments, and resistance to freezing increases with reduced oxygen. The common fresh-water turtle is the highest animal tested for survival in simulated Martian conditions. The report questions if higher animals could have evolved there, noting that low oxygen slows metabolism, making life a struggle.

The Major Planets (Jupiter and Saturn): Large planets with methane and ammonia atmospheres. Their lower atmospheres and the Great Red Spot are mysteries. Models suggest layers of ammonia gas, ammonia crystals, and ammonia and water, potentially merging into a core of ice and rock. This could explain Saturn's low density. Life, if present, would likely be at the bacterial level.

The Outer Planets (Uranus and Neptune): Similar atmospheric compositions to Jupiter and Saturn, considered inhospitable to life. Pluto is also unlikely to harbor life.

The Moon: Nearest neighbor, expected to be the first visited by humans. It has no atmosphere, with extreme temperature variations (over 100°C midday, below -100°C night). The lack of a very cold night suggests residual heat in the core. Outbreaks in craters have been observed. Detailed pictures from American Moon probes show varied interpretations of the surface (dust thickness, rock hardness). Life on the Moon hinges on the existence of deep caves with permanent shadow for ice and potential heat from the core, possibly harboring life within solid rock.

Summary and Conclusion

The study of the Solar System reveals that evolution is a complex process with many paths, requiring vast amounts of time. The Earth's stable Sun and habitable zone are crucial for life. The report concludes that planets nearer to or farther from the Sun than Venus and Mars are inhospitable. It suggests looking beyond the Solar System for other suitable habitats for intelligent life, posing the question of whether civilization is a frequent outcome of evolution or a rare occurrence.

Notes & Quotes

This section includes several short items:

• That Charlton "Crater.": S. L. Smith, B.A., disputes the explanation of the Charlton "crater" as being caused by lightning, maintaining it was caused by a UFO due to its symmetry.
• Sequel to Scorriton: Norman Oliver and Eileen Buckle are impartially investigating a "contactee" tale.
• A "Contactee" Retracts: Howard Menger admits his "contactee" story and associated photographs were false, blaming U.S. authorities.
• 'SAUCERS' DENIAL: Sir Bernard Lovell stated that unidentified flying objects reported over North America were meteorites, and scientists have explained every investigated UFO.
• So Now We Know ! Or Do We ?: Reports of clearly visible UFOs in photographs of the moon and a UFO following the U.S. satellite Echo II, as reported by Father Segundo Benito Reyna.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this report are the systematic cataloging and analysis of UFO sightings, the investigation of physical evidence related to landings, and the scientific exploration of the possibility of extraterrestrial life within our solar system and beyond. The editorial stance, as presented by the Research Officer, is one of rigorous scientific inquiry, relying on factual data and reasonable extrapolation, while remaining open to the possibility of phenomena beyond current human understanding, particularly concerning advanced technology and extraterrestrial origins. The report emphasizes the importance of detailed investigation and data collection.

This issue, identified as number 19, dated April 1st, 1966, focuses on UFO-related topics with a particular emphasis on events and discussions surrounding Warminster. The magazine is published by BUFORA and is written in English.

Warminster on T.V.

The lead article discusses a 30-minute B.B.C. program broadcast on April 1st, 1966, which dealt with the 'Thing' and its impact on the townspeople of Warminster. Mr. Shuttlewood of the 'Warminster Journal' shared his experiences, and the Editor of this publication also contributed, advocating for UFOs. The article notes that the Rev. Lewis Inge, who had previously been more vocal about UFOs, described an alleged one-man helicopter aircraft that might have been mistaken for a UFO. The Editor humorously comments on the danger of such devices and the potential need for asbestos suiting for pilots, linking the program's title, 'Pie in the Sky,' to a revolutionary song popular with American anarchists.

A UFO that Wasn't!

This section reports on a story featured in the 'News of the World' on April 10th, which presented four photographs of a supposed UFO taken from an airliner over Cannock, Staffordshire. However, an investigation revealed that these photographs were the result of an optical illusion, where the tailpiece of the airliner was transformed into a saucer shape. The article presents this as a cautionary tale for those who are too easily convinced.

Fiction or Truth?

A 19-year-old girl from California, Claudette Crawshaw, is reported to have given birth to a child with seven fingers, bluish skin, and webbed feet. The mother alleges that she was assaulted by six alien creatures from a UFO. She reportedly described these creatures in detail nine months before the child's birth. The Editor expresses considerable skepticism, suggesting the story is likely an invention to explain the baby's deformities. Nevertheless, the article ponders the possibility of the story being true and the profound impact it would have on the girl's future life, expressing pity for her regardless of the facts.

A Note for Critics

This section clarifies that the views expressed in the 'Journal' do not necessarily represent the official views of the BUFORA Association. Unless specifically stated, all expressed views are personal opinions of the Editor or contributors and do not constitute official Association policy, as per Article 9(c) of the BUFORA Constitution.

"WARMINSTER WEEK"

It is proposed that the last week in July will be dedicated to an intensive BUFORA "blitz" on the Warminster district. The objective is to obtain photographic and sound records of the UFO phenomena frequently reported from the area. The article invites individuals, whether Association members or not, to spend time in the vicinity of Warminster between July 24th and 30th. Suggestions for suitable methods of tackling the task are also welcomed. The author acknowledges that there is no guarantee the "Thing" will appear for investigators, but emphasizes that the effort will not be wasted, as valuable experience in teamwork "in the field" will be gained by all participants.

SAUCER BOOKS

A list of saucer books is provided, which BUFORA can obtain for readers. While not necessarily recommended by BUFORA, they are presented as available for purchase. All profits from these sales will go towards acquiring essential works for the BUFORA reference library. Readers are instructed to add 1/- for postage and to make cheques and postal orders payable to BUFORA. Orders should be sent to Mr. Peter Wain, BUFORA Librarian, 26 Kings Road, London, S.E.25. The list includes titles such as "The Flying Saucer Story" by Brinsley Le Poer Trench, "Flying Saucers and the Three Men" by Albert K. Bender, and "Inside the Space Ships" by George Adamski, among others. Other books by Le Poer Trench and George Hunt Williamson are also available. The BUFORA HANDBOOK Number 2 is also announced as obtainable shortly from Mr. Peter Wain.

Directory of UFO Groups

The latter part of the magazine contains a comprehensive directory of UFO investigation groups across the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland. It lists various regional societies, including the Tyneside UFO Society, Merseyside UFO Research Society, Direct Investigation Group on Aerial Phenomena, Nottingham UFOs Group, Cheltenham Flying Saucer Group, Stratford-on-Avon UFO Group, Cambridge University Group for the Investigation of UFOs, Oxford University UFOs Study Group, British Flying Saucer Bureau, Isle of Wight UFO Investigation Society, Croydon UFO Research & Investigation Society, Scottish UFO Research Society, and the Central Information Office for London and surrounding areas. Contact names, addresses, and telephone numbers are provided for each group.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings, investigations, and public perception, with a specific focus on the Warminster phenomenon. The editorial stance, as indicated by the "Note for Critics" and the tone of the articles, is one of cautious inquiry, skepticism towards sensational claims, and a commitment to rigorous investigation. The Editor encourages participation in field research while managing expectations and clarifying that personal opinions do not represent official organizational policy.