BUFORA Journal - Volume 01 No 11 - Winter 1966

Magazine Overview

Title: BUFORA JOURNAL AND BULLETIN
Issue: Vol. I No. 11
Date: Winter 1966/7
Publisher: BRITISH U.F.O. RESEARCH ASSOCIATION
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

This issue of the BUFORA JOURNAL AND BULLETIN, published in the Winter of 1966/7, focuses on the scientific approach to UFO phenomena, the potential for anti-gravity technology, and the methodology for evaluating UFO reports. The cover features the journal's title prominently, along with an illustration suggestive of UFOs, and details the publication by the British U.F.O. Research Association.

Contents

The table of contents reveals a diverse range of articles and sections, including an Editorial, Correction, Ordnance Survey Maps, Tape Recordings, an exploration of "What Is The Saucers' Motive Power?", an article on "On Evaluating U.F.O. Reports", a report on "Warminster Week", a Personal Column, Special Offer, Notes & Quotes, Book Reviews, a section on "Some Foreign U.F.O. Sightings of 1966", Regional Information Officers, and Saucer Books For Sale.

Editorial: The Arrogance of Temporal Provincialism

The editorial, penned by J. Cleary-Baker, addresses a letter from Dr. J. Allen Hynek, scientific consultant on UFOs to the U.S. Air Force. Hynek's quote, "We suffer, perhaps, from temporal provincialism, a form of arrogance that has always irritated posterity," sets the tone. The editorial criticizes the tendency within 20th-century science to dismiss the UFO phenomenon and contrasts valid scientific method with rigid scientific dogma. It argues that scientists who dare to investigate phenomena outside the established paradigm risk ostracism, loss of income, and damage to their reputation. The piece suggests that the scientific community might be more comfortable if UFOs appeared only in controlled environments, rather than in everyday surroundings. It also touches upon the fear of alien contact and how cherished scientific theories might appear foolish to advanced alien civilizations. The editorial concludes by urging a move away from unquestioning deference to pseudo-scientific authorities and a more independent assessment of evidence, drawing a parallel to historical struggles against theological dogma.

Correction

A correction is noted regarding the end date of a five-year Air Ministry and R.A.F. enquiry into UFOs, which actually concluded in 1955, not 1965 as stated in the Autumn issue.

Ordnance Survey Maps Please!

Readers are requested to send any unwanted ordnance survey maps to the Research Co-ordinator, Mr. G. N. P. Stephenson, for research purposes. Conversely, investigators needing maps are advised to request them from the BUFORA Research Co-ordinator.

Tape Recordings

Information is provided on how to obtain a list of available tape recordings from Dr. G. Doel, including details on deposit fees, refunds for returning reels, and dubbing services. Recordings are at 33/4 i.p.s. and twin track.

What Is The Saucers' Motive Power?

This article, a reprint from 'La Nueva Provincia' (10/5/1966), explores the theory that UFOs utilize anti-gravity for propulsion. It mentions that scientists in the U.S.A. and Russia are investigating this control of gravity, with predictions of artificial gravity in airliners by 1985, enabling unimaginable speeds without passengers feeling movement. The article cites a sighting of three oval, reddish objects by a Flying Tiger crew in February 1965 as evidence supporting the anti-gravity hypothesis. It notes that 46 projects in the U.S. and an equal number in Russia are investigating this, with major aerospace companies involved. Dr. Oberth is mentioned as a special consultant at a center in Huntsville, Alabama. The article also references Dr. Wm. P. Lear, who believes UFOs use artificial gravity and predicts its use in airliners by 1985. The piece concludes by stating that UFO investigations have significantly boosted research into gravity control, potentially leading to a revolution in energy and transport.

On Evaluating U.F.O. Reports

J. Cleary-Baker outlines a system for evaluating UFO sighting reports. He defines a UFO as any aerial object unexplainable as natural or conventional. The article categorizes common misidentifications, including:

1. Astronomical: Stars, planets, meteors, fireballs.
2. Meteorological: Light phenomena, electrical phenomena, clouds, mock sun/moon.
3. Conventional Skyborne: Artificial satellites, aircraft, balloons, missiles.
4. Miscellaneous: Birds, debris, ground illumination, marsh gas.
5. Optical & Psychological: Optical illusions, hoaxes, delusions, induced hallucinations.
6. Insufficient Data for Evaluation: Reports lacking vital information.
7. Unidentified or Unconventional Flying Object: Objects that defy classification into the above categories.

The author emphasizes that a thorough knowledge of the sky is crucial for evaluation. He also discusses the limitations of detailed evaluation when faced with a large volume of reports, suggesting a simpler "Appraisal" method for initial screening, which involves classifying reports provisionally as UFOs if witnesses are credible and the object exhibits unconventional characteristics.

"Warminster Week"

This section details observations made during a week-long UFO watch in Warminster, from July 23rd to July 30th, 1966. Despite challenging weather conditions (cold nights, rain, cloud), several sightings were recorded. These included a pulsating object travelling northwards, a bright ovoid object moving in a semicircular path, a bright object dropping vertically, and a pulsating object moving at high speed. Other observations included Army flares, a bright meteor, and an object resembling a satellite that appeared to hover. One notable sighting on the final day involved an ovoid, silvery-white object passing over Warminster at low altitude. The event was somewhat disrupted by the presence of numerous press personnel.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of UFOs, the critique of scientific dogma that hinders such research, and the exploration of advanced propulsion theories like anti-gravity. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of open-minded, unbiased scientific inquiry into UFO phenomena, challenging the established scientific community's reluctance to engage with the subject. There is a strong emphasis on the importance of rigorous evaluation of UFO reports and a call for a more empirical approach to understanding these unexplained aerial objects.

This issue of "Flying Saucer Review" (Vol. 12, No. 6, November-December 1966) delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, featuring a mix of observational reports, book reviews, and editorial commentary. The cover highlights "THE HUMANIDS" as a key topic, with the publication priced at 12/-.

Warminster 'Week' and Observations

The issue begins with an account of observations made during a "Week" in Warminster, noting that while not "impressive," the number of sightings of unknown aerial objects exceeded expectations for the area. A "contact" experiment on July 27th, involving observers on Cradle Hill, aimed to facilitate communication with UFOs. While the experiment itself yielded no immediate spectacular results, two events occurred: an army display of red flak and a pulsating object shot rapidly along the skyline, unfortunately observed from the far side of the hill.

The author categorizes three basic types of UFO phenomena reported from Warminster::
1. Discoid and cylindrical objects: Sometimes accompanied by the "Warminster Sound."
2. Luminous, pulsating aerial objects ("pulsers"): A recurring feature in the Warminster skies.
3. "UFO-lights": These may be mistaken for satellites but can stop, hover, or alter course unnaturally. They are considered similar to or identical with the "Foo-fighters" of World War Two and are plausibly regarded as remote-controlled scanning devices.

The author acknowledges skepticism regarding Arthur Shuttlewood's claims of numerous sightings but defends the validity of "UFO-light" observations, stating he has seen them himself at Warminster. Cradle Hill is highlighted as a location with an unusually high proportion of "pulsers" and "UFO-lights," suggesting it may be a junction-point between our locale and that of the UFOs, with a potential "other-dimensional" element involved.

The author expresses gratitude to participants, BUFORA members, Jimmy Goddard, Peter Furness, Arnold West, and Edith for their contributions and hospitality during the "Week." The issue also notes deficiencies in BUFORA's scientific techniques but praises the comradeship.

Personal Column and Book Wants

The "Personal Column" seeks cine film, photographs, and drawings related to UFOs for loan, and also requests specific issues of the BUFORA Journal. There is also a book wanted: "World Round-up of UFO Sightings."

Book Reviews

"The Humanoids" by Charles Bowen

This publication by "Flying Saucer Review" is described as an outstanding contribution, gathering "contact" cases, primarily from France and South America. It features contributions from researchers like Jacques Vallee, Aime Michel, and Coral Lorenzen. The term "humanoid" is discussed, with the author crediting himself with coining it to distinguish human-like aliens from humans. The review notes that the "Review" has done important work in documenting this controversial aspect of UFO research.

"The Hollow Earth" by Raymond Bernard

This review discusses Bernard's belief in a Hollow Earth, noting he omits earlier proponents like John Cleves Symmes. The review touches on Admiral Richard E. Byrd's references to "lands beyond the Poles" but clarifies Byrd's own explanation did not support romantic ideas. Scientifically, the Hollow Earth hypothesis is deemed untenable. However, the reviewer suggests the Poles might be "ufocals" (points of unusual UFO activity) and that interplanetary travel might involve other-dimensional means, linking Time and Space to the UFO enigma. The review concludes that the Poles might be gateways to another world, not necessarily inside the planet.

"Gods Or Spacemen?" by W. Raymond Drake

This book covers a vast amount of time and ground, delving into history, myth, and occult lore. Drake proposes that ancient gods and heroes were spacemen. The review finds the approach somewhat uncritical, with fleeting details and a lack of bibliography. It notes that while flying saucers may have visited in past ages, Drake's evidence is often too figurative for modern research. Chapters discuss planets, Apollonius, and Count St. Germain. The reviewer praises the author's shrewd observations in comparative religion but finds the evidence for spacemen weak.

Earl J. Neff's UFO booklet

A brief mention highlights Earl J. Neff's pocket-sized illustrated introduction to ufology as ideal for introducing the subject to others.

Notes & Quotes

This section includes historical notes and contemporary reports:

• John Evelyn's Diary (April 22, 1964): A quote describes a fiery exhalation rising from the sea in Montgomeryshire, burning barns and thatched houses but leaving a taint that killed cattle.
• Spring-heeled Jack: The author discusses J. Vyner's article in "Flying Saucer Review" (May-June 1961) attempting to prove "Jack" was an alien spaceman, but remains unconvinced, noting discrepancies with witness accounts.
• The Warminster Photograph: The author addresses allegations that the Gordon Faulkner UFO photograph is a fake, stating that while faking is possible, the odds are about 60-40 in favor of its authenticity.
• Epilogue to Scorriton: The author re-evaluates E. A. Bryant's "contact" story, finding it has withstood critical examination by BUFORA members Eileen Buckle and Norman Oliver. While rejecting the idea of a reincarnated Adamski, the author suggests post-hypnotic suggestion might explain the "contact" following Bryant's UFO sighting.
• A Look to the Future: The editorial announces that the next issue (Spring 1967) will be the last of the current Volume. The editor welcomes reader feedback for improving the "Journal" and reaffirms the policy of scientific objectivity, aiming to counteract "cultist fancies."

Foreign UFO Sightings (1966)

This section compiles reports from various international sources:

• Argentina (Entre Rios): Two policemen and neighbours observed an unknown flying object with intense bluish-green light and a brilliant halo, moving at a steady speed.
• France (Fréjus): A witness at the Air & Naval Base observed a white cylindrical object flying vertically, remaining motionless, and then gaining height. A pilot and photographer confirmed the sighting, and a local newspaper reported a similar object seen at Arco.
• Canada (Three Rivers & Montreal): Two policemen observed a luminous sphere that changed position and then crashed, disappearing upon investigation. A lorry driver in Montreal saw a luminous ball follow him.
• Argentina (Rio Gallegos): Numerous people witnessed a "flying saucer" emitting a brilliant light, described as a "flying town" due to its size.
• Colombia (Bogotá): An orange-coloured unidentified object was observed.
• Uruguay (Montevideo): Six newspaper men photographed an oval-shaped object whose colours changed with its movement, exhibiting sudden bursts and pauses.
• USA (Pennsylvania, Erie): Two reporter-photographers claimed to have seen and photographed a star-like object with red, green, and white lights. Campers reported a metallic silvery object settling on a beach, leaving triangular impressions in the sand.
• Germany (Black Forest): An "unidentified flying object" of various shapes (round, rectangular, square) was observed at a very high altitude (20,000-25,000 meters), evading two USAF fighters.
• Spain (Barbastro): Three machines attracted the attention of a post-office official and a taxi-driver, leaving a white cloud behind them.
• Corsica (Mazzola): Young people observed a phosphorescent globe of large dimensions over the village.
• France (Draguignan): A motionless machine with four searchlights pointing downwards was observed for half an hour.

Alexander's Ragtime Discs

A reader is asked for information regarding classical antiquity texts that might detail Alexander the Great's sighting of two UFOs that allegedly frightened his army.

Regional Information Officers

Details of recent UFO sightings should be sent to Area Information Officers for prompt local investigation. Immediate telephone calls to the Information Officer or Central Information Office, London, are recommended.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the documentation and analysis of UFO sightings, the exploration of potential explanations (including other-dimensional theories), and the review of literature pertinent to the field. The editorial stance, as reiterated by the editor, is one of "scientific objectivity," aiming to counter "cultist fancies" and maintain a grounded approach to the UFO mystery while remaining open to deeper philosophical considerations. The magazine appears to be transitioning, with the next issue marking the end of the current volume, and the editor seeking reader input for future improvements.

This document, likely an issue of a UFO-focused publication, contains two primary sections: a directory of UFO research groups and a catalog of books for sale related to UFOs and flying saucers. The issue date is inferred to be January 1960, based on the mention of 'mid-January' for book dispatch updates.

Directory of UFO Research Groups (Page 19)

Page 19 serves as an extensive listing of UFO research societies and their respective contact individuals across the United Kingdom and Ireland. This section is crucial for connecting individuals interested in UFO phenomena with local or regional investigation groups. The listed regions and their associated organizations include:

• Cumberland, Durham, Northumberland, North Riding of Yorkshire: Tyneside UFO Society, with contacts W. D. Muir and J. L. Otley.
• Lancashire, Wirral Peninsula (Cheshire), Isle of Man, Anglesey, North Wales: Merseyside UFO Research Group, contact R. Donnelly, with a secondary contact John Harney.
• Cheshire, Derbyshire, Staffordshire, Leicestershire: Direct Investigation Group on Aerial Phenomena, contact A. Tomlinson, with a secondary contact Mrs. J. Nelstrop.
• Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire, East & West Ridings of Yorkshire: Halifax Branch, contact J. M. Stear.
• North-east half of Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Shropshire, Worcestershire, Wales south of and including Cardiganshire & Montgomeryshire: Cheltenham Flying Saucer Group, contact A. R. Cole, with a secondary contact J. Whitaker.
• Warwickshire: Stratford-on-Avon UFO Group, contact J. D. Llewellyn.
• Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Huntingdonshire, Norfolk, Northamptonshire, Rutland, Suffolk: Cambridge University Group for the Investigation of UFOs, with contacts A. C. H. Durham (during term) and J. A. Popple (during vacations).
• Oxfordshire: Oxford University UFOs Study Group, contact R. N. Ball.
• Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, South-western half of Gloucestershire, Somerset, Wiltshire: British Flying Saucer Bureau, contact G.F.N. Knewstub.
• Hampshire, Isle of Wight: Isle of Wight UFO Investigation Society, contact Mrs. K. Smith.
• Surrey: Croydon UFO Research & Investigation Society, contact H. Roberts.
• Scotland: Scottish UFO Research Society, contact Glen Chandler.
• Northern Ireland: Contact T. Thompson.
• London, Essex, Hertfordshire, Kent, Middlesex, Sussex, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire: Central Information Office, contact Ken Rogers, with an alternative contact E. Hatvany.

Contact details provided include addresses and telephone numbers, with some specifying day/evening or alternative contacts.

Saucer Books for Sale (Page 20)

Page 20 is dedicated to a sales list of books related to UFOs and flying saucers, with the stated aim that any profits made will support the BUFORA library and research funds. All orders are to be sent post-free to Mr. Peter Wain at 26 Kings Road, London, S.E.25. The list includes:

• 'Anatomy of a Phenomenon' by Jacques Vallee (25/-)
• 'The Books of Charles Fort' (Four volumes in one) by Charles Fort (60/-)
• 'The Flying Saucer Story' by Brinsley Le Poer Trench (25/-)
• 'Flying Saucers and the Three Men' by Albert K. Bender (21/-)
• 'Flying Saucers Through the Ages' by Paul Thomas (Misraki), translated by Gavin Gibbons (21/-)
• 'Inside the Space Ships' by George Adamski (25/-)
• 'My Contact with Flying Saucers' by Dino Kraspedon (21/-)
• 'Other Worlds Than Ours' by C. Maxwell Cade (30/-)
• 'Road in the Sky' by George Hunt Williamson (35/-)
• 'The Saucers Speak' by George Hunt Williamson (16/-)
• 'The Sky People' by Brinsley Le Poer Trench (25/-)

A newly published book, 'Piece For a Jig-Saw' by Vice-President Leonard G. Cramp, is listed at 27/6d.

The publication also apologizes for previous delays in book dispatches but confirms they are up-to-date as of mid-January. Two specific books are mentioned as received:

• 'Other Worlds Than Ours' by C. Maxwell Cade, published by Museum Press, Ltd., London, W.C.2., priced at 30/-. This book is slated for review in the next issue.
• 'UFOs Around the World,' edited by Ed. J. Babcock and T. G. Beckley, published by the New Jersey Association on Aerial Phenomena, U.S.A.

UFO Handbook No. 2

'UFO Handbook No. 2' by F. Malcolm Bull is presented as a valuable resource for identifying aerial phenomena, distinguishing between natural and man-made occurrences. It is described as comprehensive enough for observers to confidently determine if they have witnessed a UFO sighting. The handbook is available for 7/6d. with a free Star Map, or the Star Map can be purchased separately for 1/-. Orders for the handbook should be directed to Mr. P. Wain.

Printing Information

Page 3 contains a printer's credit: 'Bobbies (Printers), 47 Chase Side, Enfield'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue is the organization and dissemination of information within the UFO community. The editorial stance appears to be one of support for research and the sharing of knowledge, evidenced by the comprehensive directory of groups and the sale of relevant literature to fund library and research activities. The publication aims to be a central resource for enthusiasts, providing contact points and access to key texts in the field, including a handbook designed to aid in the identification of aerial phenomena.