BUFORA Journal - Volume 02 No 01 - Summer1967

Magazine Overview

Title: BUFORA JOURNAL
Issue: Vol. 2 No. 1
Date: Summer 1967
Publisher: BRITISH U.F.O. RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

This issue of the BUFORA JOURNAL, the official publication of the British U.F.O. Research Association, explores various facets of UFO research, with a particular focus on 'contact' and 'operator' reports, the search for extraterrestrial intelligence, and the critical examination of alleged connections between UFO phenomena and prehistoric sites.

Editorial

The editorial addresses the importance of 'contact' and 'operator' reports in UFO research, assuming that if extraterrestrial visitors exist, they must eventually land on Earth. It acknowledges the challenges posed by fraud and self-deception in this field, noting the tendency for some to exploit such phenomena for personal gain. The editorial contrasts the approach of some UFO research societies, like NICAP, which refuse to investigate 'contact' tales, with BUFORA's stance, which advocates for investigation without immediate condemnation. While admitting that many 'contactee' accounts are likely fictional, the editorial suggests that a few may contain a kernel of truth obscured by imagination and speculation. 'Operator' reports, involving direct sightings of UFOs and alien beings, are deemed more worthy of serious attention. The editorial categorizes these entities into two main types: humanoids of normal proportions and appearance, and 'Little Men' of varying stature. It posits that 'Little Men' are likely 'biological robots' rather than living creatures, citing evidence from past cases. The editorial concludes by suggesting that the humanoids of normal proportions are the true 'operators' and UFO denizens, noting that their variations in appearance are no greater than those found among human populations. It also touches upon the speculative idea of multiple space-faring races and confederations, and the possibility of Earth's 'Galactic Neutral' status in a cosmic conflict.

Signals from Space

This section reports on the claims made by two Soviet radio-astronomers, Gennedy Sholomitsky and Dr. Nikolai Kardashev, on April 12, 1965. They announced receiving signals from a super-civilization at the edge of the observable universe, originating from the quasi-stellar object CTA-102. The signals reportedly followed a regular pattern of 'flickerings' every 100 days. This announcement was met with skepticism in the West. The article notes that Soviet scientists have continued research, with proposals for an international program to search for signals from extra-terrestrial civilizations. The plan involved concentrating on a search for signals in the centimeter wave range, suitable for interstellar communications, focusing on wavelengths of 10-5.5-2 and 2-6 cm, which are related to interstellar hydrogen. The search was to cover a radius of 1000 light-years, encompassing at least ten million stars, and was estimated to take five years with sufficient radio-telescopes. A second part of the program involved cataloging all sources of radiation in the universe and searching for call-signals. The article mentions that these proposals were reminiscent of Project Ozma of 1960 but more advanced. It also highlights that two leading Russian radio-astronomers, who believe in extra-terrestrial civilizations, were elected to the 'Order of the Dolphin,' though their names were not disclosed. The article suggests that the Soviet Union's deep interest in extra-terrestrial civilizations might have led to the CTA-102 announcement as a test of global reaction. The author of this section is R. A. Jahn.

Leys, Orthotenies & the UFOs

This article critically examines the theories of Alfred Watkins, particularly his concept of 'ley lines' or 'straight tracks,' and their alleged connection to UFO phenomena. The author, J. C-B., questions whether the pre-Roman inhabitants of Britain possessed the capability and motive to construct such a complex network of tracks. Citing classical historians like Tacitus and Caesar, the article describes Britain in 70 B.C. as a land of forests, swamps, and warring tribes with limited cultural sophistication, influenced by the Gauls and ultimately Rome. The author dismisses the idea that the Romans would have overlooked or failed to remark upon the remains of a more advanced vanished culture. The article argues that prehistoric peoples constructed roads and trackways for practical reasons, such as moving livestock safely and efficiently, and that these tracks meander to avoid natural obstacles like bogs and rivers, rather than following straight lines. The author contends that the dense population and numerous burial mounds, barrows, and earthworks from various periods in Britain make it virtually impossible to draw a straight line on a map without intersecting multiple ancient sites, rendering the concept of a systematic 'ley' network improbable. The article draws an analogy to early astronomers arbitrarily connecting stars to form constellations. It suggests that the human mind tends to find patterns in unconnected phenomena, possibly due to a basic insecurity. The author questions whether UFOs manifest a casual interest in prehistoric sites, noting that the 'Great Ridgeway' runs near the site of the Charlton 'crater' of 1963 and passes through other significant locations. However, the author firmly states that any UFO interest in prehistoric sites is unrelated to Watkins' 'ley' system and that attempting to link UFO research with this 'gross archaeological fallacy' hampers genuine UFO investigation. The article also addresses the alleged connection between Michel's 'Orthoteny' theory and Watkins' straight tracks, noting that Michel himself has abandoned Orthoteny due to mathematical analysis issues. The author concludes that linking UFOs with discredited archaeological fallacies and abandoned hypotheses is a waste of time and effort.

Letters to the Editor

This section contains correspondence from readers.

Letter from I. J. Good:
I. J. Good writes to Dr. Cleary-Baker, pointing out an omission in the U.F.O. Handbook No. 2. He suggests that helicopters, with their rotating blades reflecting light, can often be mistaken for flying discs, a phenomenon that Professor M. J. Lighthill brought to his attention. Good believes that many apparent UFOs are actually helicopters and that this possibility should be included in UFO research evaluations. He also inquires about the composition of bolides, referencing a chapter in Coral Lorenzen's book 'Flying Saucers' that discusses an exploding UFO yielding pure magnesium.

Editor's Reply (J. C-B.):
J. C-B. acknowledges I. J. Good's point about helicopters, agreeing that they are often overlooked and that a significant proportion of UFO reports might be explained by them, though not all. Regarding bolides, J. C-B. explains that a bolide is an exploding meteor, and fragments reaching the ground are meteorites. He describes the two principal types of meteorites: metallic (primarily iron and nickel) and stony (composed of oxygen, iron, silica, and magnesium). He notes that the material from the Ubatuba UFO seems to rule out the possibility of it being a meteorite.

Letter from (Mrs.) Lyle G. Boyd:
Mrs. Lyle G. Boyd writes to the Editor, correcting the perceived origin of the word 'humanoid.' She states that the word has been in common use among science fiction writers for many years, certainly more than twenty, and is included in a dictionary published in 1961. She apologizes for dispelling the notion that it might have been invented by the journal's staff.

Personal Column

This section provides information for BUFORA members.

It encourages members to publicize BUFORA by purchasing envelope stickers in various quantities (250 for 7/6d, 100 for 3/6d, 50 for 2/6d, assorted, post free). Free samples are available upon sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to Lionel Beer at Flat 15, Freshwater Court, Crawford Street, London, W.1.

The column also advertises Dell's FLYING SAUCERS magazine No. 2, which contains 60 photos/illustrations, including 20 UFOs, available from Lionel Beer.

Additionally, there is a request for Volume 1 and various back issues of FLYING SAUCER REVIEW and its predecessor, FLYING SAUCER NEWS. Second-hand books on the subject are also wanted. Interested parties are directed to write to Lionel Beer at the same London address.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the critical analysis of UFO sighting reports, the scientific investigation of potential extraterrestrial phenomena, and the debunking of unsubstantiated theories. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded but rigorous scientific inquiry, emphasizing the need to investigate all evidence while remaining skeptical of sensationalism and unfounded claims. BUFORA positions itself as a serious scientific body, distinct from 'cranks or cultists,' and actively seeks to cooperate with other research groups and governmental bodies, as evidenced by the letter to Dr. Condon. The journal also demonstrates an interest in international UFO research and the broader implications of potential extraterrestrial contact.

This issue of the BUFORA JOURNAL, identified as Vol. 1, No. 11, published for Winter 1966/7, delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena. The journal, originating from the United Kingdom and published by BUFORA, features a mix of theoretical discussions, book reviews, and detailed reports of sightings.

Correspondence and Theoretical Discussions

The issue opens with correspondence regarding the use of the term 'extra-terrestrial' and a letter from P. M. H. Edwards, Ph.D., questioning the notion that UFOs are losing their '3-dimensional idea' and suggesting that considerations of other dimensions complicate the issue. Edwards argues that extraterrestrial life, if it exists, would likely be confined to controlled environments on planets within our solar system. However, he posits that the sheer number of reported UFO craft suggests they originate from planets beyond our solar system. He proposes that travel through 'hyper-space' or a 'fifth dimension' is the most plausible explanation for the ubiquity of UFOs, as direct travel at speeds below light would be too protracted. He acknowledges the possibility of three-dimensional machines from three-dimensional worlds but remains open to concepts like 'mat' and 'demat' and 'teleportation'.

Another section addresses the perceived sensationalism in reporting UFO sightings, with the journal defending its approach by stating that Arthur Shuttlewood, a journalist, writes for the general public, and that many UFO incidents are inherently sensational. It also touches upon mysterious phone calls received by Arthur, which he suspects might be communications from extra-terrestrials, though he acknowledges the possibility of a hoax.

Book Reviews

Two significant book reviews are featured:

"The Scoriton Mystery" by Eileen Buckle

This review discusses a book detailing an inquiry into a 'contact' tale from Scoriton, Devon, involving a UFO visitant. The inquiry was undertaken privately by BUFORA members Eileen Buckle and Norman Oliver after the National Executive Committee declined to sponsor it due to the tale's incredibility. The reviewer notes that some incidents are amusing, while others involving psychic motivations are difficult to assess. The book is described as well-produced, with Eileen Buckle being a capable narrator.

"The Warminster Mystery" by Arthur Shuttlewood

Arthur Shuttlewood, features editor of the 'Warminster Journal,' is presented as a leading on-the-spot investigator of UFO phenomena in Warminster. His book chronicles the numerous sightings reported from late 1964 onwards. The review highlights Shuttlewood's common sense approach, filtering theories from various researchers, cultists, and 'lunatics.' It mentions that the book covers sightings from the end of 1964 to April 1966 and promises a sequel. BUFORA members are encouraged to purchase and study the book, considering the Warminster 'Thing' visitations as more than a typical UFO 'flap.'

UFO Sightings and Photographic Evidence

The journal presents photographic evidence of UFOs:

The Birch Photograph (Fig. 1)

Taken by Alex. Birch (aged 14) in June 1962 near Sheffield, Yorkshire, this photograph shows 'dark UFOs' emitting bright bubbles in daylight. The sighting lasted only a few seconds, but other boys corroborated the event, and the negative was found to be untouched.

The Pratt Photograph (Fig. 2)

Photographed by Stephen Pratt (aged 15) on March 28th, 1966, near Conisbourough, Yorkshire, this image shows three dark objects similar to those in Fig. 1. A bright light was seen moving across the sky, and analysis of the negative revealed no tampering.

UFO Over Paris 1963 (Fig. 3)

This object, photographed near the Arc de Triomphe, appeared as a translucent pearly grey. Initially considered potentially an emulsion fault, the negative and print were returned by Kodak after some weeks from the R.A.F. Research Centre. Analysis confirmed it was not an emulsion fault and resembled a 'Saturn' type UFO.

UFO Over Trindade Island (Fig. 4)

Another 'Saturn' type UFO was photographed in 1958 by the official photographer on board the Brazilian Government ship 'Almiral Saldanha.' The object flew in a figure-of-eight course and appeared translucent pearly grey. The sighting was entered in the official log and accepted as authentic.

U.F.O. Activity in Brazil During 1965

A detailed chronological listing of UFO activity in Brazil during 1965 is provided, citing various newspapers and locations:

• September 8th: Alto Purus (Amazonas) - Latex gatherers observed a dazzling, wheel-like object with 'two eyes' emitting lights and fire.
• September 11th: Sao Joao (Pernambuco) - António Pau Ferro saw two flying saucers and two occupants.
• September 14th: Caxias (R. G. Sul) - A large cylindrical object was seen at 1000 metres.
• September 14th: Sao Joao de Maritti (State of Rio) - A luminous object was observed and photographed at night.
• September ?: Bairro Ferraz de Vasconcelos (Sao Paulo) - Luiz Camella saw a reddish object with a bluish light that stopped in the air and then moved off in a straight line.
• October ?: Conceicao Macabu (Est. Rio) - Jorge Armando picked up an object fallen from the sky.
• October 18th: Maceio (Alagoas) - A very luminous flying saucer was seen at great height.
• October 18th: Ponte Praia nr. Santos & Guaranja (Est. S. P.) - Thousands saw a round object performing evolutions over the beach.
• October ?: Ubatuba (S.P.) - A soldier and another man saw a luminous orange flying saucer making noisy evolutions at low altitude.
• October 21st: Bairro Sao Cristorao (Gb) - Fall of luminous fragments, red in colour.
• October ?: Canhotinho (Alto Cruzeiro) - Two beings were seen by the side of a grounded flying saucer.
• October 26th: Mogi-Ciaca (SP) - A flying saucer accompanied a car, descending with a strong light.
• October 29th: Orinhos (Sao Paulo) - A luminous object was seen remaining in the air before moving off.

Other Sections

Display Advertising

An advertisement encourages businesses to advertise in the journal, listing Lionel Beer as the Publicity Officer.

Annual General Meeting, 1967

Preliminary notification is given for the BUFORA Annual General Meeting to be held on Saturday, October 7th, 1967, at the Kensington Central Library. Details regarding nominations for offices and resolutions are provided.

Received

A brief mention of the 'Sky Scouts Handbook' is made, with an introduction by the Hon. Brinsley Le Poer Trench, and it is recommended.

Notes & Quotes

This section includes a historical note about atmospheric noises heard in the Warminster area in 1860, described as loud rumblings resembling artillery fire.

Not a Cover-up But a Foul-up?

This article discusses the U.S.A.F.'s attitude towards informing the public about UFO sightings, citing Professor James McDonald's investigation into 'Project Bluebook' files. It suggests that the C.I.A. accepted negative findings from the Robertson panel of 1953, fearing that UFO reports might interfere with intelligence channels during national emergencies, leading to instructions to debunk sightings. McDonald reportedly disagrees with many 'Bluebook' evaluations.

Project Bluebook's Vital Statistics

Statistics from Project Bluebook are presented, showing that out of 11,107 UFO reports between 1947-1966, 6.08% were unexplained. The figures are noted as not always aligning with previous 'Fact Sheets.'

Contributions Please!

With the beginning of Volume Two, the editor appeals for outside contributions to the journal, noting that much of the content is written by himself due to a lack of submissions. Guidelines for contributors are provided, including typing on one side of the paper, double-spacing, and a word limit of 2,000 words for articles.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of UFOs and their origins, the scientific investigation of sightings, and the challenges of reporting and analyzing UFO phenomena. The editorial stance, as expressed through the editor's (J. C-B.) contributions and the selection of articles, is one of serious inquiry into UFOs, advocating for rigorous data collection and analysis while remaining open to unconventional explanations such as hyperspace travel. There is a clear emphasis on the importance of detailed reporting and a critical examination of official explanations, particularly concerning Project Bluebook. The journal also aims to promote BUFORA's activities and encourage member engagement.

This issue of 'UFO MISCELLANY' (Issue 15, dated 1967) is a compilation of UFO reports and news from various sources, primarily focusing on sightings and the activities of UFO research organizations.

UFO Sightings and Reports

Brazil

Two distinct sightings are reported from Brazil. In October, hundreds of people in Curitiba witnessed a flying saucer that caused traffic to stop at Alfonso Pena Airport. The object left a luminous bluish-white trail and was observed moving in a N.-S. direction at an altitude of 20 kms.

On December 16th, a luminous point was seen by the Control Tower at Santos Dumont Airport over Penha. It was observed accompanying a plane for a minute and was described as spherical, emitting a clear light. The object was noticed when the plane had turned, appearing in its tail.

Peru

Two unidentified flying objects were observed in the Peruvian sky over Arequipa during the 24 hours preceding the report. The first object was seen behind the volcano MIATI and disappeared westward at high speed. Witnesses noted its great luminosity, with red, violet, and green lights, and an ovoid shape.

Malta

Four unidentified objects were frequently observed on the radar screens of the Detector Station at Xlendi, on the Isle of Como. Initially thought to be Russian satellites, their characteristics made this hypothesis untenable. The objects moved at a height of approximately 180 kilometers in a west-to-east direction at a speed of about 7,500 kms/hour. A peculiar aspect was their appearance from the south. These objects were not observed by other satellite-tracking stations globally, deepening the mystery. Technicians reported they appeared early in the morning, between 3:30 and 5:30 GMT.

Italy

A detailed account from 'Tribuna Illustrata' describes an incident on the night of July 13, 1966, involving a level-crossing keeper named Camillo Faieta near Pisa-Florence railway. Faieta witnessed a red bolide descending from the sky, leaving a luminous trail. He initially thought it was a wrecked aircraft but then saw the object gain height, pause, and descend to rest on high grass. The object emitted an intense light and had two circular tubes visible beneath its disc. The incident lasted for an hour and 25 minutes. A policeman who arrived at the scene reportedly acknowledged seeing the object but stated it must be kept secret.

Mexico

'Paris-Normandie' reported a near-collision between a flying saucer and a plane shortly before landing at Mexico City. The plane, belonging to the Guatemala Aviation Company, was flying over Oaxaca when the crew and passengers saw a round object travelling at high speed in the opposite direction. The object was described as a silvery spinning top crowned with a red ball, with a diameter of about 10 meters. The pilot, Colonel Alfredo Castaneda, stated he had never seen anything like it in his twenty years of flying. The crew reported the incident, ruling out a sounding balloon due to the object's position and altitude.

Association Jottings

This section provides updates on the activities of BUFORA (British UFO Research Association) and its affiliated groups.

Lectures and Research

Mr. Alan Mayne, M.A., delivered a lecture to the Scottish UFO Research Society on 'The New Science of Holonomics and its Relationship with UFO Phenomena,' suggesting a new, impartial study of universal laws. Another BUFORA member, Mr. Gordon Lindsay, demonstrated a new electronic UFO detector he developed at Glasgow University.

New Member-Societies

Three new Member-Societies have joined BUFORA: the Imperial College UFO Research Society, the Leeds University UFO Study Group, and the North London UFO Investigation Bureau. UFO study groups in Guildford and South Lincolnshire have applied for membership, and a new group is forming in Reading.

Branch and Group News

Mr. T. Thompson has established a new BUFORA Branch in Northern Ireland. The Cheltenham Flying Saucer Group has changed its name to the Cheltenham Group and applied for Branch status. The Merseyside UFO Research Group is hosting the Northern Regional Conference in Liverpool on November 4, 1967.

Public Relations

Enthusiasts in Galashiels, Scotland, have formed a society and gained significant publicity. The issue ponders the value of such methods for arousing public interest.

Dissolution

It is noted with regret that the Oxford University UFO Study Group has been dissolved. This group had been active for about four years and had previously hosted a BUFORA Regional Conference.

Contact Information

Member-Societies and Branches are encouraged to contact Mike Holt, B.A. (Hon. Sec. BUFORA), at 'Bramhall,' Claremont Rd., Claygate, Esher, Surrey.

BUFORA (LATE) NEWS

Condon Committee and Sky-Watch Day

Dr. Edward Condon of the California University team investigating UFOs for the United States Air Force has applied for BUFORA membership. The National Sky-Watch Day, mentioned in several newspapers, received a good write-up in the London EVENING STANDARD. Lionel Beer recorded for the BBC World Service, and Edgar Hatvany, BUFORA's chief Sky-Watch Day organiser, was scheduled to record for Granada Television. Mike Holt was also asked to record for the BBC programme 'TODAY'. Lawrence Moore arranged to film sky-watch activities for BBC's 'PANORAMA'.

Exhibitions and Cooperation

BUFORA is cooperating with the DAILY MAIL in providing a flying saucer theme for the SCHOOLBOYS AND GIRLS EXHIBITION at Olympia.

Other Items

Advertisement

An advertisement for M.L.G. TRADING LTD. offers plywoods, blockboards, chipboards, and plastics, with a V.I.P. treatment for journal readers.

Regional Information Officers

A directory of Regional Information Officers is provided for reporting UFO sightings, with contact details for various regions across the UK and Northern Ireland.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently reports on UFO sightings from around the world, emphasizing witness testimony and official investigations where available. There is a clear focus on the activities and organizational efforts of BUFORA, highlighting its role in collecting and disseminating UFO-related information. The tone suggests an active interest in the phenomenon and a desire to encourage systematic study and reporting. The inclusion of a 'UFO MISCELLANY' section indicates a practice of compiling diverse and often brief reports from various sources, suggesting a broad scope of coverage. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into UFO phenomena, while also documenting the efforts of amateur and professional researchers in the field.