BUFORA Journal - Volume 03 No 01 - Autumn 1970

Magazine Overview

Title: BUFORA JOURNAL
Issue: Volume 3, Number 1
Date: Autumn 1970
Publisher: British U.F.O. Research Association (BUFORA)

This issue of the BUFORA JOURNAL, the official organ of the British UFO Research Association, is dedicated to the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena. The editorial emphasizes the importance of adhering to scientific methodology and discarding dogma, citing historical examples where scientific establishments have been proven wrong.

Editorial

The editorial, penned by the Editor, addresses the challenge of defining 'scientific' within the context of UFO research. It argues against rigid adherence to current scientific dogma, referencing Dr. Alfred Russell Wallace's observation that scientific deniers of new facts have historically been wrong. The editor expresses a commitment to presenting all facts of UFO investigation, even those that may align with subjects like Psychical Research, which are often anathema to the prevailing materialistic scientific establishment. The piece advocates for scientific method while rejecting scientific dogma, and suggests that phenomena like telepathy and clairvoyance may be valid tools of investigation.

Medical Aspects of Non-Events

This article, reprinted from 'Anomaly' and edited by John A. Keel, explores the psychological and physical changes experienced by UFO contactees. It describes two primary reactions to initial contact: extreme fear bordering on hysteria, or complete euphoria. Following contact, percipients may experience an 'expansion' of awareness and perception, leading to higher IQ and enhanced ESP abilities, or a 'deterioration of personality' characterized by confabulation and obsession with the UFO event. The article notes that many contactees become 'space age messiahs,' dedicating their lives to spreading a 'message.' It also highlights a high divorce rate among contactees and suggests that the contactee syndrome might be related to undefined forms of schizophrenia, involving mind tampering and memory alteration. The author notes that non-smokers, teetotalers, and vegetarians appear to have a higher rate of contact, and that LSD users exhibit similar symptoms. The article concludes by emphasizing the need for systematic study of contactees themselves rather than solely focusing on the 'non-events.'

Ministry of Defence UFO Statistics

This section presents a breakdown of UFO reports received and evaluated by the Ministry of Defence between January 1, 1959, and December 31, 1969. A total of 1316 reports were analyzed. The largest category was 'Aircraft' (33.5%), followed by 'Satellites & Débris' (23.8%). 'Unexplained (Insufficient Information)' accounted for 9.4%. The author, J. C-B., critiques the Ministry's categorization, particularly the conflation of 'Unexplained' and 'Insufficient Information.' The author suggests that 'Unexplained' reports, if examined, might reveal a 'family likeness' indicative of alien vehicles. Despite this, the author concludes that the Ministry investigators have likely done a sound job, acknowledging that upwards of 90% of UFO reports relate to misidentified conventional objects and natural phenomena.

Sighting at Starr Hill, Warminster

This article details a UFO sighting that occurred on Saturday, March 21, 1970, around 9:15 p.m., near Starr Hill in Warminster. Four individuals—John Dunscombe, Moreen Butler, Veronica Cadbey, and Jim Wellings—reported observing a black object, described as being about the size of a car, moving horizontally, smoothly, and noiselessly across a field. The object was illuminated from within and emitted a bright white light. It was estimated to be moving at approximately 100 mph and hovering about 7 feet above the road. The witnesses were unable to find any conventional explanation for the phenomenon. The editorial comment notes that this sighting is unconnected with Arthur Shuttlewood and his group, suggesting it may be of interest to those critical of the 'anti-Warminster lobby.'

Warminster Aberration and UFOcal Research

This piece addresses the controversy surrounding UFO sightings in the Warminster area, specifically refuting claims made in the 'BUFORA RESEARCH BULLETIN' that suggested a hoax. The author, who was in charge of the Warminster Sky-Watch on June 28/29, 1969, states that there was no circumstantial evidence of a hoax. The observed objects moved contrary to surface wind direction, ruling out lighted balloons. The author argues for treating these lighted objects as UFOs and criticizes the superficial analysis of the lighted balloon explanation. A footnote mentions a report of 'invisible walking' on Cradle Hill, a site known for unusual phenomena. The author appeals for objective reporting on Warminster incidents, emphasizing that personalities should not obscure the issue. The piece concludes by stating that 'Ufocals' are rare in Britain and should not be ignored.

Editorial Note

An editorial note clarifies that Korsakoff's psychosis, mentioned in John A. Keel's article, is a mental disorder characterized by disorientation and a tendency to relate fantastic tales, often accompanying polyneuritis.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the psychological and physiological effects on witnesses (contactees), and the analysis of official UFO data. The editorial stance, as articulated in the leading article, is strongly in favor of an open-minded, scientific approach that is willing to explore all possibilities, including those that challenge conventional scientific paradigms. The journal aims to present factual evidence and encourage critical analysis, while cautioning against dogma and preconceived notions. The inclusion of a specific sighting report from Warminster, alongside statistical analysis and a discussion of the contactee syndrome, reflects a commitment to covering diverse aspects of the UFO field with a rigorous, albeit unconventional, scientific perspective.

This issue of Flying Saucer Review, Volume XV, Number 11, dated April 1970, features a critical examination of Erich von Daniken's popular book "Chariots of the Gods?" under the headline "CHARIOTS OF THE GODS? NOT PROVEN." The magazine is published by the Flying Saucer Service in the UK and is written in English.

Review of "Chariots of the Gods?"

The article begins by situating von Daniken's work within the context of "Atlantean" literature, which posits a past technologically advanced civilization. It notes that since 1947, a significant focus has been on proving a connection between this alleged civilization and UFO phenomena. The review acknowledges the success of von Daniken's book, which was serialized in the Sunday Mirror, but echoes a warning from Gordon Creighton that things are rarely as these authors present them.

The core of von Daniken's argument, as presented in the review, is that an unknown space-ship discovered Earth ages ago, and its non-anthropomorphic crew, described as "giants" with webbed, four-fingered hands, mated with "the daughters of men" to produce fertile offspring. This crew allegedly returned periodically to raise the intelligence level of terrestrial man, with time-dilatation effects explaining their own slow aging. The review questions this, suggesting that time-dilatation effects are only valid for constant velocity and would be negated by landing and re-launching.

Von Daniken's evidence for the sudden appearance of the Sumerians with advanced astronomy, culture, and technology around 40,000 years ago is also scrutinized. The review states that his narrative is pieced together from "passages in very ancient texts that have no place in the working hypothesis" and a "mish-mash of supposed 'mysteries drawn after a fashion from archaeology.'"

The article highlights several specific examples of alleged inaccuracies in von Daniken's text:

• Easter Island Statues: Von Daniken claims the "colossal" statues were carved from "steel-hard volcanic stone" using rudimentary tools and moved miles without rollers. The review counters this by citing Thor Heyerdahl's "Aku-Aku," which mentions trees on the island and native wood-carving. It also notes that 180 islanders moved a 12-ton statue by hauling ropes, with hibiscus fiber for ropes and pebbles for rollers. The rock is described as "compressed volcanic ash, a soft and easily worked stone," not "steel hard."
• Nazca Plain: Von Daniken's interpretation of the Nazca Plain markings as resembling an "ultra-modern airfield" is challenged. The review states that a photograph said to resemble aircraft parking bays actually shows a bird's claw, and other markings include a spider-monkey and a fish, which are untypical of an airfield.
• Tiahuanaco: The ruins are described not as an "enormous city" overturned by catastrophe, but as a "loose group of edifices" covering less than half an acre. The review suggests they were pulled apart by European colonists and built into village house-walls.
• Great Pyramid: The claim that the Great Pyramid records the value of pi (π = 3.14159) is refuted. The article explains that Egyptian pyramids, including the Great Pyramid, were built with a semi-perimeter and height ratio of approximately 22:7, not necessarily reflecting a precise mathematical constant.

Overall, the review concludes that "Chariots of the Gods?" is "naive and uncritical," with archaeological outlook and material often "50 or more years out of date." Despite an extensive bibliography, the research is deemed "extremely poor," and the case for von Daniken's theories is judged "not proven" due to a lack of substantial evidence beyond misrepresented legends and spurious facts.

Notes and References

The article includes a detailed list of 14 notes and references, citing works by von Daniken, Bowen, Creighton, the Encyclopaedia Britannica, Jensen, Levie, Heyerdahl, Pauwels & Bergier, Kubler, Spence, Posener, and Michel.

Notes & Quotes

This section addresses two distinct topics:

• UFOS & Apollo 11: Lurid reports circulating in UFO journals about conversations between Apollo 11 astronauts and Mission Control concerning UFOs seen on the lunar surface are dismissed as lacking foundation and being "ham' journalism."
• The Bermuda Triangle: The April 1970 issue of 'Pursuit' is cited, stating that the Bermuda Triangle is one of ten areas globally that are particularly prolific in disasters to aircraft.

Warning to Sceptics

A quote from Catherine Crowe is presented, emphasizing that "pharisaical scepticism which denies without investigation is quite as perilous and much more contemptible than the blind credulity which accepts all that it is taught without inquiry." This is described as "another form of ignorance assuming to be knowledge."

'Fortean' Phenomena

This short piece questions whether the Association should broaden its research to include 'Fortean' phenomena, such as showers of living organisms, spontaneous human combustion, and lake monsters, suggesting they might have a bearing on the UFO enigma.

Nothing on the Nahanni

A bulletin from Paul Doerr is mentioned, who traveled to the Nahanni River in Northern Canada, a region reputed for mysterious events. Doerr found nothing unusual, and the temperature of the "Headless Valley" was not notably higher than elsewhere.

Holes at the Poles

The article discusses photographs circulating that purportedly show polar openings, supporting the "UFOs from Inside the Earth" theory. However, the author states they have not seen all the evidence and that more than satellite photographs would be needed to radically revise scientific theories about the Earth's composition. While not dismissing the possibility outright, the author suggests another explanation is "extremely probable."

The Origin of the UFOs

This section notes a growing skepticism among researchers regarding the "extra-terrestrial hypothesis" for UFO origins. The author admits to sharing this skepticism but finds most alternative explanations unacceptable, posing the question of whether a crucial factor has been overlooked that could unlock understanding of the UFO phenomenon.

Elements of the UFO Encounter and the Ecsomatic Experience Compared

This extensive section, spanning several pages, explores potential links between UFO encounters and ecsomatic (out-of-body) projection. It presents comparative tables detailing numerous parallels between UFOic phenomena and ecsomatic experiences. The term 'ecsomatic experience' is defined as feeling one is observing from a point of view separate from the physical body, and 'parasomatic body' refers to this additional vehicle of consciousness.

The tables meticulously list various UFOic characteristics (visual forms, appendages, movements, luminosity, color) and their corresponding ecsomatic experiences. For example:

• Visual Forms: UFO shapes like spheres, ovoids, and discs are compared to parasomatic bodies described as giant, small, balloon-like, or circular blobs of mind. UFO appendages like rods, antennae, and tubes are paralleled with the psychophysical link, described as rays, cords, threads, or flexible rods.
• Movements: UFO movements such as vertical ascent, looping-the-loop, and zigzagging are compared to ecsomatic travel in vertical lines, loops, and zigzags. UFO maneuvers like the "falling-leaf" are likened to subjects fluttering to the ground.
• Luminosity: Luminous UFOs and rays are compared to luminous parasomatic bodies and luminous psychophysical links.
• Color: Green UFO rays or clothing are compared to flashes of blue-green light and greenish glows in ecsomatic states.

The section also details "Associated forms" of UFO occupants and their deficiencies (e.g., missing lower portions, no stomach) and compares them to parasomatic bodies with indefinite lower parts or lacking certain features. Similarly, UFO appendages like helmets, suits, and attachments are compared to ecsomatic body features like caps, hoods, and various attachments to the head, brow, or back.

Further tables detail "Movements of the UFO" and "Movements of entities," correlating them with ecsomatic movements like walking, leaping, levitation, and head jerking. The concept of the "psychophysical link" (or "astral cord") is central, described as a connection between the parasomatic and physical bodies, often visualized as a cord, ray, or thread.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around critical analysis of popular UFO theories, particularly Erich von Daniken's, and the exploration of potential connections between UFO phenomena and parapsychological experiences like out-of-body projections. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, advocating for rigorous research and evidence-based conclusions, while remaining open to exploring unconventional hypotheses when supported by credible data. The magazine also addresses specific UFO-related topics like the Apollo 11 reports and the Bermuda Triangle, offering a cautious or dismissive perspective on sensationalized accounts.

SPACELINK, Vol. 6, No. 3, published around July 18, 1970, is a UK-based magazine focused on 'WORLD UFO NEWS and FLYING SAUCER SCENE'. The issue is described as packed with serious, interesting, and useful information, despite its attractive glossy cover.

Report on the SPACELINK Symposium

The main feature of this issue is a detailed report on the first SPACELINK symposium, held on Saturday, July 18, 1970, at the oak-panelled lecture theatre of Kensington Central Library. The symposium's theme was 'practical UFO research,' with the aim of examining the current state of UFO research, defining objectives, and providing future guidance.

Before the proceedings began, attendees could view electronic detection equipment loaned by the Bedford UFO Society, including the Peter Johnson detector and GEOS detector, as well as photos from SPACELINK's USA correspondent, G. L. Bernier. A display of foreign UFO magazines and photostats detailing BUFORA's research procedures were also available. Anthony Pace, F.R.A.S., exhibited meteorites.

SPACELINK's Managing Editor, Lionel Beer, opened the symposium, welcoming attendees and explaining the event's purpose: to allow staff, consultants, and readers to meet and review the current state and future possibilities of UFO research. He introduced SPACELINK's voluntary staff and consultants. Representatives from various UFO groups were present, including Joan Nelstrop (Hon. Sec. of DIGAP), Sheila Walker (Hon. Sec. of the Scottish UFO Research Society), Albert Davey (South Herts UFO Investigation Group), members of the Welsh UFO Research Association, and Andrew de Muylder (SPACELINK's Brussels correspondent). Many attendees were members of BUFORA.

Roger Stanway, F.R.A.S., chaired the first session and introduced Graham F. N. Knewstub, a founder-member of the British Flying Saucer Bureau (established 1952) and the first president of BUFORA (1962).

Defining 'Ufology'

Graham Knewstub discussed 'Defining ufology.' He proposed that to define 'ufology,' one must first define 'UFO.' The general definition of a UFO is 'a flying object which the observer cannot identify.' This leads to a definition of ufology as 'the systematic comparison of the data supplied by observers of UFOs with the data relating to conventional flying objects and related data from such relevant disciplines as meteorology, psychiatry, astronomy, biology, etc., with a view to establishing the nature and identity of the UFO.' This definition acknowledges a residue of unexplained cases.

A more rigorous definition restricts 'UFO' to 'unidentified flying objects whose observed characteristics contain at least one feature which is incompatible with any known conventional object or natural phenomenon.' This rigorous definition excludes identifiable objects and those with insufficient data, focusing on cases with unexplained features, i.e., 'unidentifiable flying objects.' Thus, the definition of ufology is expanded to include 'The systematic study of 'unidentifiable flying objects.'

Scientific Investigation and Technology

Geoffrey Doel, a BUFORA Vice-President, had his paper read by Peter Wain. Doel warned against UFO cults that exploit ignorance and superstition, emphasizing that 'Methods of investigation should be as scientific as possible.' He stressed the need for correlating evidential data scientifically and interpreting it by those with evaluation experience, advocating for the recruitment of individuals with wide experience in the field.

Gerry Brown presented 'Reflecting on definitions,' posing questions from a layman's perspective and demonstrating an electronic machine capable of 'learning' through simple experience. He suggested such machines could form the basis of self-contained mechanical life forms existing in the universe.

David R. J. Viewing of the Bedfordshire UFO Society highlighted the limitations of individual skywatching (around 100 hours per year) compared to mechanical electronic aids that can monitor 24 hours a day, provide permanent records, and facilitate data evaluation, possibly using small computers. He saw this as a promising line of UFO investigation.

Anthony Pace, F.R.A.S., discussed sky-scan cameras and the USA Prairie Network, noting that this system was not ideal for recording UFO activity.

Presentations and Displays

Following a tea break, the meeting resumed with slides. These included reactions of press cartoonists to UFOs over the years and examples of work from the Smithsonian Institution's Center for Short-Lived Phenomena.

Capt. Ivar Mackay, Chairman of BUFORA, discussed similarities between UFO phenomena and paranormal phenomena, cautioning novices against dabbling in paranormal fields without adequate knowledge.

Arnold West, Hon. Treasurer of BUFORA, proposed a scheme for a UFO laboratory, arguing that research is hampered by the lack of a central clearing house for information and scientific data supply.

A detailed paper by Stephen Smith, M.A., BUFORA's Director of Research, presented the BUFORA investigation network and its 'unsung' research program, reassuring attendees that UFO research involved practical, not just armchair, activities.

Graham Knewstub spoke on liaison with scientific establishments, noting the inherent difficulties due to the unflattering image of UFO research in scientific circles. He pointed out that common research areas are small, limiting cooperation, but that researchers are often willing to discuss their work with qualified individuals showing genuine interest. He suggested that such liaisons could provide access to valuable data and potentially lead to dual-purpose experiments.

Funding and Future Papers

A final discussion focused on obtaining funds for UFO projects. It was suggested that preliminary work and pilot projects were necessary before approaching foundations, but a definite scheme could improve sponsorship chances. Two papers were not presented due to time constraints: Graham Knewstub's on the practical value of historical research, and Janet Gregory's on the practical value of investigating contact claims.

The symposium concluded with Lionel Beer thanking the speakers and Rev. Norman Cockburn offering a speech of thanks from the floor. A social gathering and private dinner at the Viscount Hotel, Kensington, allowed for further discourse and the establishment of firm links, with many looking forward to a future symposium.

BUFORA Constitution Revision

As of August 8th, 1970, the BUFORA Postal Ballot for suggested constitutional revisions resulted in all votes being in favour, adopting the Revised Constitution.

Contributions Invited

The 'Journal' welcomes articles, letters, and book reviews. Contributors are asked to use double spacing and type on one side of the paper. Correspondence requiring a reply should include a stamped, self-addressed envelope.

Advertisements and Correspondence

Advertisement rates are listed, with personal columns at 4d. per word and display rates for whole, half, and quarter pages. Ad copy and related correspondence should be sent to the Vice-Chairman, L. E. Beer. General correspondence should be directed to the Honorary Secretary, Miss B. Wood. Subscriptions are handled by Mrs. A. Harcourt, and editorial matters by Dr. J. Cleary-Baker. The Librarian is Capt. I. Mackay. UFO Report/Press Cuttings are managed by Omar Fowler, and research by S. L. Smith.

UFO Societies Meetings 1970-71

A comprehensive schedule of meetings for various UFO societies across the UK is provided for the period September 1970 to June 1971. Societies listed include BUFORA, SHUFOIG, DIGAP, CONTACT, COS-MOS, SIGAP, and ANDOVER UFOLOGISTS, with details of dates, times, locations, and lecture topics.

Member Societies

A list of member societies as of April 1, 1970, is included, detailing the contact person and address for each. These include the British Flying Saucer Bureau, Cambridge U.F.O. Study Society, Cambridge University Group for the Investigation of U.F.Os., Direct Investigation Group on Aerial Phenomena, D.M. College U.F.O. Research Club, Gloucester U.F.O. Investigation Group, Imperial College U.F.O. Research Group, Scottish U.F.O. Research Society, South Lincolnshire U.F.O. Study Group, Surrey Investigation Group on Aerial Phenomena, Nottingham U.F.O. Detection Society, and Southampton University U.F.O. Research Group. Branches of BUFORA in Halifax and Northern Ireland are also listed.

Personal Section

'THE TOPSTONE,' a recent book by Kenneth Lloyd Larson, is advertised. It features 60 map-drawings based on ten years of research into American saucer report-sites, showing simple mathematical designs related to ancient sites and earth-moon designs. The book costs 5 dollars.

Annual General Meeting 1970

BUFORA's Annual General Meeting was scheduled for Saturday, October 3rd, 1970, at 6 p.m. at Kensington Central Library. Only members with valid membership cards were entitled to attend and vote.

Esomatic and UFOIC Descriptions

Page 1 contains a table listing 'UFOIC' terms and their 'ECSOMATIC' descriptions. This table details various colors (blue, violet, purple, red, pink, orange, yellow, white, pearly, silvery, golden, iridescent, black) and their associated descriptions, such as 'blue lights,' 'blue mist,' 'blue haze,' 'blue globe,' 'blue cord,' and 'blue flashes.' It also includes references to specific sources like ETAL., SPAP., MAP., and LM. for each description.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly emphasizes a scientific and rigorous approach to UFO research, as evidenced by the symposium's discussions on defining ufology and the need for scientific methods. There is a clear effort to distinguish between mere observation and systematic, evidence-based investigation. The importance of collaboration and information sharing is highlighted through the listing of numerous UFO societies and the proposal for a UFO laboratory. The magazine also touches upon the overlap between UFO phenomena and paranormal studies, cautioning against unscientific dabbling. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting serious, organized, and scientifically-minded UFO research, moving away from sensationalism towards a more academic and investigative methodology.