BUFORA Journal - Volume 02 No 04 - Spring 1968

Magazine Overview

Title: BUFORA JOURNAL
Issue: Volume 2, Number 4
Date: Spring 1968
Publisher: British U.F.O. Research Association (BUFORA)
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of the BUFORA Journal presents a blend of ufological commentary, astronomical observations, and organizational updates from the British UFO Research Association. The journal emphasizes a scientific and open-minded approach to UFO investigation, while cautioning against uncritical acceptance of all claims, particularly those from 'contactees'.

Editorial

The editorial addresses the phenomenon of 'contactees' who claim interactions with extraterrestrial beings. It highlights instances where contactees have made geographical errors regarding constellations, suggesting either deception, delusion, or miscommunication. The editor advocates for open-mindedness tempered with healthy skepticism, emphasizing that UFO research should not be confined to observing aerial phenomena but must include the study of landing incidents and operator encounters. The editorial also touches upon the subconscious resistance to the idea of higher intelligence and the challenges faced by UFO researchers in gaining acceptance from scientists and officials. It suggests that the Condon Panel's report might dampen enthusiasm for certain approaches to UFO research.

Articles and Features

The Unique Syndrome

This article explores the persistent human tendency to view mankind as unique in the universe. It traces this attitude from religious dogma to modern ufology, where the appearance of UFOs has fueled speculation about Earth being a focal point for alien interest. The author critiques the 'contactee' narratives, suggesting that the 'special knowledge' they claim to receive primarily benefits the contactees themselves. The article posits that the most likely attractions for space visitors are humanity's use of atomic energy and its attempts at space navigation, though it questions why visitors haven't offered more direct guidance if they are concerned about humanity's welfare.

Scientific Sky-Watching

This section delves into astronomical concepts, explaining stellar magnitude and the vast distances involved in space. It clarifies that magnitude refers to brightness, not size, and provides examples like Sirius and Rigel. The article discusses light-years and the relative emptiness of space, noting that the human eye can see only a limited number of stars. It then guides the reader through the constellations visible in the Spring skies, including the Great Bear, Arcturus, Leo, Coma Berenices, and Virgo, offering details for identification. The piece also touches upon meteors and meteorites, explaining their origin and the phenomenon of meteor showers.

BUFORA Information and Activities

Details are provided regarding the organization's structure, including its officers and executive committee. The aims of BUFORA are clearly stated: to encourage scientific investigation, collect and disseminate data, and coordinate UFO research globally. Membership details and subscription rates are outlined. The journal itself is noted as being published quarterly and available only to members or by exchange. Information on advertisements and correspondence is also included, with specific addresses for different types of communication.

BUFORA Conference in Bristol 1968

An announcement details an upcoming conference hosted by the British Flying Saucer Bureau in Bristol on July 20th, 1968. The event is scheduled to run from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. and admission is strictly by ticket only. Details for obtaining tickets are provided, including sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to the Hon. Treasurer.

Letters to the Editor

One letter, from Norman Oliver, expresses a view contrary to the journal's editorial stance on 'contactees'. The letter introduces a piece by Wilbert B. Smith, which argues that extraterrestrials are 'brothers' who are interested in humanity's welfare but are prevented by a universal law of independence and freedom of choice from interfering directly. This law dictates that individuals must learn from their experiences, and interference would violate this principle, leading to negative consequences.

The 'Space-Brother' Image

This section, likely the transcribed text from Wilbert B. Smith, elaborates on the concept of 'space-brothers' and the non-interference principle. It suggests that extraterrestrials are part of a magnificent cosmic plan and are prevented by cosmic law from intervening directly in human affairs. The article posits that these beings offer knowledge and a new science that explains UFO behavior and corrects scientific inaccuracies. It questions why this knowledge is not publicized and why humanity focuses on atom bombs instead of studying these matters. The author believes that the current state of the world is a direct result of violating the law of non-interference.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the scientific approach to UFO research, the distinction between open-mindedness and credulity, the astronomical context of UFO sightings, and the philosophical implications of humanity's place in the universe. BUFORA's editorial stance, as reflected in the main editorial and the content selection, is one of rigorous, scientific inquiry, emphasizing evidence-based analysis and a critical evaluation of 'contactee' claims, while remaining open to the possibility of extraterrestrial visitation.

This issue of "Flying Saucer Review" (Volume 14, Issue 13, dated November 1966, though some content references later dates) is published by Flying Saucer Review Publications in the United Kingdom. The cover headline is "BOOTSTRAP LIFTOFF?", suggesting a focus on advanced propulsion systems. The price was 3s. 6d. The magazine covers a range of topics including theoretical spacecraft propulsion, scientific UFO investigation, historical sites, and organizational news.

Articles and Features

Bootstrapped Liftoff? Gravitational Propulsion Systems

The lead article, "BOOTSTRAP LIFTOFF?", explores the theoretical possibilities of using gravitational power for space-craft propulsion. The author, S. L. Smith, investigates how artificial gravitational fields could be generated and used to drive spacecraft. He clarifies the nature of gravitational fields, distinguishing between naturally occurring 'positive' fields and hypothetical 'negative' or repelling fields. Smith discusses three basic configurations for artificial generators: positive, negative, and bipolar. He concludes that while these systems could propel a craft along local gravitational lines, they fall short of the behaviour patterns reported in UFO cases and the aspirations of designers, particularly regarding maneuverability and course determination. The article also touches upon a proposed system involving secondary field emission to stimulate gravitational field generation.

Scientific Sky-Watching: A Novel Approach

This section, attributed to the Editor, discusses the challenges in UFO research, particularly the time lapse between sightings and subsequent investigation, which can cloud witness testimonies. It highlights the work of Dr. J. Allen Hynek and proposes an "active method" of UFO study involving direct observation with scientific instruments. The article announces the "National Sky-Watch Day" on Saturday, June 15th, 1968, a country-wide event organized by BUFORA to gather data using a newly established radio communication network and modern instrumentation. The objective is to obtain verifiable scientific proof. The duration of the watch is set for 12 hours, from 7 p.m. on June 15th to 7 a.m. on June 16th. Interested individuals are encouraged to form local groups and contact Edgar Hatvany for details.

The Fallacy of the Antique U.F.O.

Peter R. Newman critically examines the theory that ancient sites like Stonehenge were of extraterrestrial origin. He refutes claims made by Mrs. M. E. Carey, arguing that there is no logical or concrete evidence to support such notions. Newman points out that while Stonehenge is impressive in size, its construction and artifacts are consistent with Neolithic origins and subsequent alterations by human inhabitants. He dismisses comparisons to Egyptian pyramids and emphasizes that archaeological findings do not suggest advanced extraterrestrial technology. Newman concludes that all theories of extraterrestrial origin for Stonehenge must be discounted unless minute concrete evidence is presented, distinguishing scientific research from "half-baked theories and mystical feelings."

Book Review: "THE REFERENCE FOR OUTSTANDING UFO SIGHTING REPORTS"

This review discusses a publication edited by T. M. Olsen, which covers 160 UFO cases from 1947 to 1964. The book aims to present raw data for discussion, selecting cases that are clear-cut and unambiguous, excluding hoax and hallucination. The reviewer agrees with the selection criteria but notes that natural phenomena are not entirely excluded. The review highlights well-known cases like Gaillac and Socorro. It praises the inclusion of witnesses' sketches and movement diagrams but criticizes the formulation of a "reliability index," finding the calculations too precise and the assumptions questionable. The reviewer suggests that subjective data should not be estimated to such a high degree of accuracy.

Association Jottings

• This section provides updates on BUFORA's activities:
• Christopher Rose initiated a successful fundraising scheme by writing and selling UFO articles.
• The Halifax Branch is implementing a data processing system using edge-punched cards for UFO sightings.
• BUFORA's membership has grown significantly, reaching 715 members.
• S/Ldr D. E. B. K. Shipwright, a BUFORA member, spoke on UFOs to the Chertsey Conservative Association.
• The Surrey Investigation Group on Aerial Phenomena has produced car-window stickers.
• A new group has been started in South Hertfordshire.
• The magazine notes an organization called "UFO Tours Inc." offering "trips to destinations throughout the Universe in unidentified aerial phenomena."
• The 21st Anniversary of Kenneth Arnold's sighting of "nine shining discs" is mentioned.
• Dr. Cleary-Baker lectured to students at the University of Southampton.

Notes & Quotes

• BARROWS & UFOs: Discusses a speculative link between prehistoric barrows and UFOs, suggesting that ancient peoples might have viewed UFOs as vehicles for transporting souls.
• NOT SO BAD AS IT LOOKED: A follow-up to previous correspondence, clarifying that a passage in the 'Israel Jerusalem Post' was a bowdlerisation of Arthur Shuttlewood's true opinions.
• SO SAY ALL OF US!: A quote from Dr. Edward Condon, Director of the University of Colorado UFO Project, expressing a desire to study a UFO up close.
• THE MINISTRY & THE UFOs: Reports that since 1959, the Ministry of Defence has received 808 UFO reports, with 84 remaining unexplained and 7 under investigation, noting a consistent 10% unexplained rate over 15 years.
• APOLOGISTS FOR HOSTILE UFOs: Cites an article by Jerome Clark suggesting that UFOs might act defensively, referencing an incident where an F-89 was reportedly abducted.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a scientific and investigative approach to UFO phenomena, encouraging data collection and analysis. There is a clear skepticism towards unsubstantiated theories, particularly those linking UFOs to ancient mysteries like Stonehenge. The editorial stance supports rigorous research, as evidenced by the "National Sky-Watch Day" initiative and the critical book review. The magazine also functions as a communication hub for BUFORA and its members, sharing news, activities, and member contributions, while maintaining a cautious and evidence-based perspective on the UFO enigma.

This document is a scanned page from a magazine, likely a UFO or paranormal investigation publication, containing articles and announcements. The page number is 19, and it includes a section titled "UFOs & THE THIRD REICH," an editorial piece titled "A QUESTION OF DEGREE !", a short report "SCRAPPING THE PAPERWORK.", and an advertisement for "SPACELINK."

UFOs & THE THIRD REICH

This section references issue No. 15 of the News-Bulletin of the Belgian Interplanetary Study Circle, which attributes some UFO activity to concealed Nazis operating from the South Polar Region. The author notes this as an "exotic hypothesis" but, recalling the V-7 (presumably a German rocket or aircraft project), suggests it might be "wholly outside the scope of rational investigation."

A QUESTION OF DEGREE !

This editorial discusses the recent agitation within BUFORA circles regarding degrees conferred by minor educational institutions, such as Theological Colleges. It acknowledges that while these degrees may not carry the same prestige as those from major universities, they possess academic validity. The author notes that thousands of scholars worldwide hold such degrees.

SCRAPPING THE PAPERWORK.

The author, identified as J. C. B., recounts being the Guest-of-Honour at the Annual Dinner of the Isle-of-Wight UFO Investigation Society. He was impressed to learn that the society, referred to as IWUFOIS, has successfully "streamlined the administrative side of its activities" to the point where it is minimal. This efficiency has resulted in more time available for UFO investigation, and the author suggests it is a "precedent other groups might do worse than note and study."

THE 'MARY CELESTE' WHAT HAPPENED TO HER CREW?

This article, appearing on page 20 of the scanned document, delves into the mystery of the 'Mary Celeste' (not 'Marie Celeste' as often rendered). The vessel was a 236-ton sailing vessel, 96 feet long. Contrary to popular belief among UFO writers who suggest spacemen spirited the crew away, the article asserts there is "very little mystery" surrounding the ship's voyage, which began on November 7th, 1872, from New York.

The ship was carrying a cargo of whale-oil, fusel-oil, and crude alcohol. On board were Captain Benjamin S. Briggs, his wife, their 2-year-old daughter Sophia, the Mate Albert Richardson, Second-Mate Andrew Gilling, cook Edward Herd, and four ordinary seamen: the Lorenzen brothers, A. Hardens, and G. Gonschalt.

On December 5th, the 'Mary Celeste' was found deserted in mid-Atlantic by the crew of the 'Dei Gratia.' The captain of the 'Dei Gratia' placed a prize crew aboard and brought the vessel to Gibraltar. An Admiralty Proctor conducted an inquiry, awarding £1,700 in salvage money.

The last log entry on the 'Mary Celeste' was dated November 24th, with a slate entry for 8 a.m. on November 25th. This indicates the ship had been drifting without a crew for approximately eleven days before being found. The ship's papers (Manifest, Register, and Bill-of-Lading) were missing. Crucially, the ship's boat, which was on board when it sailed from New York, was also missing.

The article argues that official investigators had no doubt about what happened: the crew had left in the boat. The reason proposed is that one of the hatches to the hold was off. The author speculates that the hold may have filled with fumes from the crude alcohol, precipitating a minor explosion that blew off the hatch-cover. The crew, fearing the ship would blow up, panicked and rushed for the boat, with the Captain grabbing his papers. A sudden squall then carried the ship out of rowing range.

The author concludes that while other ships' abandonments at sea are genuinely mysterious and could involve UFOs, the 'Mary Celeste' is not one of them. He states that "common honesty requires that there should be an end to attempts to confuse the issue" and that the proposed solution is consistent with available evidence.

SPACELINK Advertisement

An advertisement appears for "SPACELINK," described as being "for UFO NEWS and FLYING SAUCER SCENE (widely recommended)." It offers a "LARGE GLOSSY COVER" with "SPECIAL INTEREST SECTIONS, INCLUDING CONTACT STORIES and PHOTOGRAPHS." A sample copy is priced at 3/6d. including postage, and an annual subscription is 13/6d. Contact details are provided for Miss C. Henning, SK Sub'n Dept., 99 Mayday Gardens, London S.E.3. Special discounts are available for clubs.

Member Societies

Page 3 lists numerous "MEMBER SOCIETIES," providing their names and contact addresses. These include:

• Birmingham University UFO Research Group
• British Flying Saucer Bureau
• Cambridge University Group for Investigation of UFOs
• Direct Investigation Group for Aerial Phenomena
• Fleet Street UFO Study Group
• Imperial College UFO Research Group
• Isle of Wight UFO Investigation Society
• Leeds University UFO Investigation Society
• Merseyside UFO Research Group
• Nottingham UFO Detection Society
• Scottish UFO Research Society
• Slough Aerial Phenomena Research Association
• South Herts. UFO Investigation Group
• South Lincs. UFO Study Group
• Southampton University UFO Research Group
• Stratford-on-Avon UFO Group
• Surrey Investigation Group on Aerial Phenomena
• Tyneside UFO Society
• Cheltenham Branch BUFORA
• Halifax Branch BUFORA
• Northern Ireland Branch BUFORA

The printer is identified as "Bobbies (Printers), 47 Chase Side, Enfield."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO investigation, the historical analysis of unexplained phenomena (like the 'Mary Celeste'), and the organization of UFO research groups. The editorial stance appears to be one of rational investigation, debunking sensationalism where possible (as with the 'Mary Celeste'), while remaining open to exotic hypotheses when presented with some basis (as with the Third Reich UFO connection). There is also an emphasis on efficient administration within research societies to maximize time spent on actual investigation.