BUFORA Journal - Volume 03 No 03 - Spring&Summer1971

Magazine Overview

This issue of the BUFORA JOURNAL, Volume 3, Number 3, published for Spring/Summer 1971, is from the British UFO Research Association. The cover features a large green circular design with the title 'BUFORA' prominently displayed. The issue is dated Spring/Summer 1971 and is identified as Volume 3, Number 3.

Officers and Aims

The journal lists the honorary officers, including President G. W. Creighton, and the BUFORA Executive Committee, chaired by Captain I. MacKay. The aims of the association are clearly stated: to encourage and promote unbiased scientific investigation and research into UFO phenomena, to collect and disseminate evidence and data, and to co-ordinate UFO research globally. Membership is open to all who support these aims, with annual subscriptions set at £1.50 or $5 U.S.A. and Canada. Applications and information can be obtained from Miss C. Henning.

Editorial Stance

The editorial, titled 'EDITORIAL', discusses the concept of a 'New Age' heralded by flying saucers. It posits that humanity is at a critical stage, facing threats from atomic weapons, over-population, and pollution. The editorial suggests that scientific and technological advances, particularly those stemming from the World Wars, may be linked to the appearance of UFOs. It raises the possibility that advanced alien races might be concerned about humanity, potentially influencing us indirectly for our good, but also warns that not all visitors may be well-meaning. The editor observes that current social phenomena, especially among youth, may indicate external influences, both constructive and destructive. The editorial concludes by framing the present crisis as an intensification of an age-old struggle between Light and Darkness, urging alignment with powerful allies against powerful foes.

Articles and Content

An Apology

The Editor issues an apology for the delay in publishing this issue, attributing it to the postal strike, the launch of 'Project Warminster,' and the unforeseen burden of assuming the role of Research Officer. The increased size of the issue is offered as compensation.

Annual General Meeting 1971

Notification is given for the Annual General Meeting of BUFORA, scheduled for Saturday, October 2nd, 1971, at 6 p.m. at the Kensington Central Library. Nominations for committee positions are due by August 7th, 1971.

Possible British UFO Visitations from the Seventh to the Fourteenth Century A.D.

This article, by J.C-B., explores historical accounts from ancient British and Irish records that may describe UFO phenomena. It presents narratives from sources such as the 'Annals' of Tighernac O'Braien, the 'Anglo-Saxon Chronicle,' Roger of Wendover's 'Chronicon,' and others, dating from the 7th to the 14th centuries. Examples include descriptions of 'dragons in the heavens,' 'ships in the air,' 'wilde fyr' (wild fire), globes of fire, aerial ships, and flaming globes. The author notes that while many such accounts can be explained by natural phenomena, some are more dubious and equate well with modern UFO reports. J. Cleary-Baker offers notes on some entries, suggesting that 'wilde fyr' might be related to UFOs causing conflagrations, and that certain aerial phenomena, like the 1224 event in Ireland, could suggest the dumping of radioactive waste from UFOs.

A.P.R.O. Press Release

A press release from the Aerial Phenomena Research Organization, Inc. (APRO) dated September 19, 1970, details the recovery and analysis of fragments from an exploded unidentified flying object (UFO) found on a beach near Ubatuba, Brazil, in 1957. These fragments, subjected to chemical analyses by various institutions including the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture and the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission, were found to be of unusually high purity magnesium. The article notes that the fragments were directionally solidified castings, a technique not studied in 1957, suggesting they might belong to a vehicle from a more advanced civilization. APRO has approximately 20,000 UFO reports from over 50 countries and is working to computerize them for analysis. APRO emphasizes the importance of scientific and objective investigation into the UFO phenomenon, acknowledging that while the Ubatuba magnesium is strong evidence for an extraterrestrial origin, it is not absolute proof.

What is the Nature of the UFOs?

This section references an article from 'PURSUIT' (Vol. 4, No. 1, Jan. 1971), the Journal of the Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained. It discusses the extraterrestrial hypothesis, the possibility of interstellar travel, and the need for scientific investigation into UFOs, bringing various scientific disciplines to bear on the problem.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the historical investigation of UFO phenomena, the presentation of physical evidence (such as the Ubatuba fragments), and the critical importance of scientific methodology and witness reliability in understanding UFOs. The editorial stance is one of caution and concern regarding humanity's current global crisis, linking it to technological advancements and suggesting a potential cosmic dimension to human affairs, with UFOs playing a role in this larger context. The association advocates for unbiased, scientific inquiry into the UFO phenomenon.

This issue of the BUFORA JOURNAL, identified as issue number 8 and dated June 1971, delves into various aspects of ufology and related phenomena. The publication, likely from the UK, features a mix of editorial commentary, reader correspondence, book reviews, and firsthand accounts of sightings.

Editorial Stance and 'The New Theory'

The editorial addresses the perception that BUFORA's interest in UFOs has waned, explaining this is twofold. Firstly, they express boredom with repetitive 'sightings' reports, though they continue to collect them for analysis by The Aerial Phenomena Research Organization, Inc. (APRO). They believe it is now futile to expect a UFO to 'land' for examination. Secondly, and more significantly, the organization has, after extensive consideration, concluded that a sound, scientifically acceptable explanation for the phenomenon has been offered. This 'New Theory,' primarily mooted by Luis Schonherr, proposes that UFOs and other 'items' are projections from other space-time continua, conceived as material holograms. These entities, possibly inhabiting parallel space-time continuums, have mastered 'instant transference' (ITF) and can project themselves into our reality, potentially influencing us and creating phenomena like UFOs and 'Little Green Men.' The journal intends to focus its energy on this theory, either by suggesting improvements or collecting evidence to invalidate it. They welcome all theories, as they are now examining the 'hows' of the phenomenon.

Reader Correspondence and Editor's Replies

The "Editor Replies" section addresses reader queries. One reader questions the denial of Atlantis's former existence, to which the editor refers back to a previous editorial accepting a probable astronomical catastrophe destroying a proto-civilization in Central/South America, possibly sinking inhabited areas in the Caribbean. However, the editor states there is no geological or archaeological evidence for a vast mid-Atlantic continent with super-scientists. Regarding George Hunt Williamson's writings on UFOs, the editor acknowledges his sincerity but finds his facts buried in unsupported theory. On George Adamski, the editor revises his earlier view of him as a 'romancer' and 'pious fraud,' noting that a UFO was observed by the USAF in 1952 near Desert Centre, Arizona, around the time of Adamski's alleged meeting, and that his 'space fireflies' seem consistent with phenomena witnessed by Colonel Glenn.

Men in Black and Other Phenomena

The editor also discusses the existence of 'Men-in-Black,' acknowledging evidence of harassment of UFO witnesses but expressing doubt about some reports, suggesting paranoia might be a factor. They question the rationale behind the MIB's actions, particularly why some individuals are silenced while others are not.

Notes and Quotes

This section includes a farewell to Stephen Smith, Director of Research, due to business and personal pressures, with the editor assuming his duties. It also features a quote from Albert Einstein on the importance of wonder and the mystical experience.

National Skywatch Day and UFO Existence

An announcement regarding National Skywatch Day (June 26-27, 1971) indicates that BUFORA is leaving its organization to Lincoln Richford of COS-MOS due to their involvement in the Warminster Project. The journal defends itself against accusations of becoming too exalted to participate, stating they do not attack others and question why they are often targeted. A piece titled "Do those UFO's really exist? A Stale Allegation" by J.C-B. asserts that UFOs are alien-controlled artifacts, defending this conclusion after twenty years of research against accusations of pre-judgment.

The Space Tourists

This section speculates on the existence of extraterrestrial life and their potential interest in Earth. It posits that given the vast number of stars and planets, intelligent life likely exists elsewhere. These beings, potentially more advanced, might use sophisticated spacecraft to study Earth. The text suggests that extraterrestrial visitors may be driven by a desire for knowledge or simply curiosity about our planet, which is described as a "Garden of God."

Book Reviews

Two book reviews are featured:

• "THE OLD STRAIGHT TRACK" by Alfred Watkins: This is a reprint of a seminal work on ancient sites and trackways, which Watkins believed were old trading routes. John Michell, a proponent of the theory, suggests they are 'energy lines' connecting 'magic' centers. The review notes that some consider these lines to be used by UFOs for flight paths. The reviewer, E.A.I.M., fondly recalls Alfred Watkins and his father's exploration of these tracks.
• "INVISIBLE RESIDENTS-A Disquisition upon Certain Matters Maritime and the Possibility of Intelligent Life under the Waters of This Earth" by Ivan T. Sanderson: The review highlights Sanderson's exhilarating and stimulating presentation of data. The book explores nine 'Mysteries' related to the Earth's hydrosphere, including a high-speed submarine, UFOs and UAOs entering oceans, fiery constructions rising from the sea, and the Bermuda Triangle. Part II delves into 'Anomalies' like gravitic and magnetic ocean depressions. Part III proposes that an invisible world inhabited by "Other Intelligences" (OINTS) exists beneath the waters, using discoidal machines to interact with our environment, sometimes playing "impish, stupid and, sometimes, nasty pranks."

Sightings in Finland

This section reprints two sighting reports:

• Humanoids in Längelmävesi: In August 1945, the witness observed a dazzling bright fireball approaching their sauna at high speed. After it disappeared, a dark, log-like object was seen sliding in the water, followed by a terrified, grey, animal-like creature.
• A Saucer over Lamujärvi-a Mother Ship in Otaniemi: A carpenter reported seeing a stainless steel saucer-like object descend from the clouds over a lake in 1963. In 1954, the same carpenter reported seeing a red, pencil-shaped object moving slowly in the sky, emitting a rattling sound.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature and origin of UFOs, the exploration of alternative theories beyond simple sightings, and the potential for extraterrestrial intelligence interacting with Earth. The journal's stance, as articulated in the editorial, is to move beyond mere reporting of sightings towards a more analytical approach, focusing on a specific, scientifically-grounded theory ('The New Theory') while remaining open to other possibilities. There is a clear emphasis on rigorous investigation and the search for logical explanations, even when dealing with unconventional subjects like ancient civilizations and alleged alien interactions.

This issue of the BUFORA JOURNAL, identified as Issue 18 and dated April 25, 1971, focuses on UFO research and investigation, particularly concerning the 'Project Warminster' initiative and methods for evaluating UFO reports. The journal is published by the British UFO Research Association.

Project Warminster

The lead article introduces 'Project Warminster,' an independent undertaking directed by J. Cleary-Baker, Ph.D., under the auspices of the British UFO Research Association. This project aims to bring proper investigative techniques to bear on the intense and sustained UFO activity reported in the Warminster area of Wiltshire over the past six years. The project will investigate current UFO reports as they arise and review past reports from the area. Results will be published in booklet form and in the 'BUFORA JOURNAL.' UFO researchers are invited to act as observers. The project is scheduled to activate on Saturday, May 1st, 1971, preceding the BUFORA Brains Trust at Kensington Central Library. It is planned to cease activity in October 1971 but may be continued or reactivated in Spring 1972. Communications should be addressed to J. Cleary-Baker, Director, at 3 Devenish Road, Weeke, Winchester, Hants.

The Vallee Classification of UFOs

This section presents a detailed classification system for UFOs, attributed to Jacques Vallee. The system categorizes sightings into five main types:

• Type I: Refers to objects on or near the Earth's surface, including those near the ground below treetop height, over bodies of water, craftlike objects with occupants showing interest, and objects that 'scout' or 'buzz' vehicles.
• Type II: Refers to cylindrical objects (cloud cigars), often vertical, with a diffuse cloud surround. Sub-types include objects moving erratically, stationary objects giving rise to secondary phenomena, and objects seen among secondary objects.
• Type III: Refers to unusual aerial forms (discoid, spherical, elliptical) with trajectories exhibiting points of discontinuity, such as stationary points. This includes vertical 'up and down' motion, 'dead-leaf' motion, halting and resuming flight, hovering, altering appearance, emitting satellite objects, peculiar behavior, 'dog-fights,' 'aerial dances,' and altering trajectory.
• Type IV: Refers to an unusual object in continuous motion through the atmosphere, without altering course, altering trajectory near conventional aircraft, flying in formation, or following a wavy, zigzag course.
• Type V: Refers to distant objects seen as lights, including luminous phenomena of extended diameter (not appearing solid), nocturnal meandering lights, starlike objects remaining motionless, and point-sources with unusual trajectories.

On Evaluating UFO Reports

This article, written by the Editor, discusses the challenges of evaluating UFO sighting reports. The Editor defines an Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) as any aerial object not explainable as a natural or conventional phenomenon. It is stated that up to 90% of reported UFOs are ordinary things seen under unusual aspects. A UFO, in a more restricted sense, is an 'Unconventional Flying Object' of unknown origin and advanced technical performance.

The article outlines a system for evaluating reports, emphasizing the need for thorough knowledge of the sky and its phenomena. Misidentified known objects and natural phenomena are categorized as follows:

1. Astronomical: Stars, Planets, Meteors, Fireballs.
2. Meteorological: Light phenomena, Electrical phenomena, Clouds, Mock sun or moon.
3. Conventional Skyborne: Artificial satellites, Aircraft, Balloons, Missiles.
4. Miscellaneous: Birds, Windborne debris, Ground illumination, Marsh gas.
5. Optical & Psychological: Optical illusions, Hoaxes, Illusion or delusion, Induced hallucination.
6. Insufficient Data for Evaluation: Reports lacking vital data or complicated by other factors.
7. Unidentified or Unconventional Flying Object: The final category for objects that cannot be assigned to any of the previous six.

The article elaborates on each category, explaining how natural phenomena and conventional objects can be mistaken for UFOs. For instance, astronomical objects like stars and planets are described, as are meteors and fireballs. Meteorological phenomena such as temperature inversions causing lights to appear in the sky, ball lightning, St. Elmo's Fire, auroral manifestations, and lenticular or noctilucent clouds are discussed. Conventional skyborne objects like satellites, aircraft (including navigation lights and refuelling operations), and balloons are also detailed. Miscellaneous causes include reflections from birds, kites, marsh gas, and car headlights. Optical and psychological factors, such as illusions, delusions, hallucinations, and hoaxes, are presented as significant contributors to UFO reports.

The Problem of Witness Reliability

This section delves into the critical issue of witness reliability in UFO reports. The Editor acknowledges that while hoaxes and hallucinations are possible, they should not lead to the dismissal of all reports, especially those from lone witnesses. The article identifies three principal motives for hoaxes:

1. Gain: Individuals may fabricate UFO stories for financial profit, though the Editor notes that direct financial gain from UFO research is rare.
2. Notoriety: Lonely, inadequate, or egotistical individuals might create UFO narratives to attract public attention.
3. Edification: Some individuals may invent UFO experiences to support their existing beliefs about life and the universe, particularly if they hold strong, potentially fanatical, views.

The Editor proposes a rule for evaluating reports: if a witness appears responsible, serious, not seeking gain or notoriety, and not fanatically devoted to a UFO cult, their narrative deserves serious attention. The article also addresses hallucination, stating it doesn't necessarily imply insanity but can be triggered by obscure mental catalysts, with mentally disturbed individuals being more susceptible. The Editor's rule for dealing with potential hallucinations is to eliminate it as a cause if there is no known history of mental disturbance and no clear indication of such in the narrative.

The Editor admits these rules are not 100% effective but estimates they are at least 80% so, based on common sense and personal experience, asserting that the population is not exclusively composed of the unscrupulous or insane.

National Sky-Watch Day, 26th June

An announcement is made for a 'National Sky-Watch Day' on June 26, 1971. Several sites and organizers are listed across the UK, including:

• COS-MOS: Biggin Hill Aerodrome (Organiser: Peter Wain)
• SIRIUS: Norfolk (site to be arranged, Organiser: Dave Oakley-Hill)
• BUFORA: Newchapel Observatory, Stoke-on-Trent (Organiser: Mr. A. R. Pace)
• CUFOSS: North Cambridge (Organiser: Francis Pullen)
• BUFORA: Halifax Branch (site to be arranged, Organiser: Trevor Whitaker)
• DIGAP: Stockport (site to be arranged, Organiser: John Bolton)
• SIGAP: Pewley Downs, Nr. Guildford (Organiser: Omar Fowler)
• COS-MOS: Berkshire (site to be arranged, Organiser: Frank Morton)

John Keel — A Note

An editor's note briefly mentions receiving two books by UFO-researcher John A. Keel: "Operation Trojan Horse" (published by Souvenir Press Ltd., UK) and "Strange Creatures from Time and Space" (published by Fawcett Publications, Inc., USA). The Editor states that Keel's work has revolutionized the thinking of many open-minded students and proposes to analyze these volumes in depth in the Autumn issue of the BUFORA JOURNAL. While paying tribute to Keel's research, the Editor expresses doubt that his answers to the UFO enigma are definitive and invites reactions from colleagues and readers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the systematic investigation of UFO phenomena, the classification and evaluation of sightings, and the critical assessment of witness reliability. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded but rigorous inquiry, advocating for the application of scientific techniques to UFO research while acknowledging the complexities of human perception, potential for misidentification, and the possibility of hoaxes and psychological factors. The journal actively promotes participation in UFO research through initiatives like Project Warminster and National Sky-Watch Day, and engages with significant contributions to the field, such as the work of John Keel.

This document is a directory of "MEMBER SOCIETIES" as of April 1, 1970. It lists various UFO investigation and research groups, their branches, and contact information across the United Kingdom. The document also includes sections for advertisements, correspondence, subscriptions, editorial and research, librarian, and UFO report/press cuttings.

Member Societies and Branches

The primary content of the document is a comprehensive list of UFO-related organizations. These include:

• BRITISH FLYING SAUCER BUREAU: Contact: Graham Knewstub, Esq., 27 Station Road, Shirehampton, Bristol, BS11 9TU.
• CAMBRIDGE U.F.O. STUDY SOCIETY: Contact: J. Clark, Esq., 31 Perse Way, Cambridge, CB4 3SG.
• CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY GROUP FOR THE INVESTIGATION OF U.F.Os.: Contact: P. Rawcliffe, Esq., Pembroke College, Cambridge.
• DIRECT INVESTIGATION GROUP ON AERIAL PHENOMENA: Contact: Mrs. J. Nelstrop, 5 Ridgmont Road, Bramhall, Stockport, Cheshire.
• D.M. COLLEGE U.F.O. RESEARCH CLUB: Located at Fawley Court, Henley-on-Thames, Oxon.
• GLOUCESTER U.F.O. INVESTIGATION GROUP: Contact: A. Marshall, Esq., Superintendents Lodge, Coney Hill Cemetery, Glos.
• IMPERIAL COLLEGE U.F.O. RESEARCH GROUP: Contact: S. J. Roberts, Esq., Chemistry Dept., Imperial College, South Kensington, London S.W.7.
• SCOTTISH U.F.O. RESEARCH SOCIETY: Contact: Miss S. Walker, 69 Northumberland Street, Edinburgh EH3 6JG.
• SOUTH LINCOLNSHIRE U.F.O. STUDY GROUP: Contact: Mrs. P. Barnes, 43 Gladstone Street, Bourne, Lincs.
• SURREY INVESTIGATION GROUP ON AERIAL PHENOMENA: Contact: O. F. Fowler, Esq., 149 Mytchett Road, Mytchett, Camberley, Surrey.
• NOTTINGHAM U.F.O. DETECTION SOCIETY: Contact: J. Wisniewski, Esq., 72 Sneiton Dale, Sneiton, Nottingham.
• SOUTHAMPTON UNIVERSITY U.F.O. RESEARCH GROUP: Contact: C. W. O. borne, Esq., Students Union, The University, Southampton.

BRANCHES are also listed:

• HALIFAX BRANCH B.U.F.O.R.A.: Contact: T. Whitaker, Esq., 253 Huddersfield Road, Halifax, Yorks.
• NORTHERN IRELAND BRANCH B.U.F.O.R.A.: Contact: T. Thomspon, Esq., 23 Mountainvale Road, Newtonabbey, Co. Antrim, N. Ireland.

Administrative and Contact Information

The document provides contact details for various administrative functions:

• ADVERTISEMENTS: Personal Column is 4d. a word. Display rates are £8.0.0d for a whole page, £4.0.0d for a half page, and £2.5..0d for a quarter page. Ad copy and related correspondence should be sent to the Vice-Chairman, L. E. Beer, at 15 Freshwater Court, Crawford Street, London, WIH 1HS.
• CORRESPONDENCE: General correspondence should be directed to the General-Honorary Secretary, Miss B. Wood, at 6, Cairn Avenue, Ealing, London, W.5.
• SUBSCRIPTIONS: Handled by Mrs. A. Harcourt, at 170 Faversham Road, Kennington, Ashford, Kent.
• EDITORIAL & RESEARCH: Dr. J. Cleary-Baker is the contact for this section, located at 3 Devenish Road, Weeke, Nr. Winchester, Hants.
• LIBRARIAN: Capt. I. Mackay is the librarian, with an address at 5 Pitt Street, London, W.8.
• UFO REPORT/PRESS CUTTINGS: Omar Fowler at 149 Mytchett Road, Camberley, Surrey, handles these.

Printing Information

The document notes that it was printed by Burnetts Printing Works, Cyprus Road, Burgess Hill, with the number 3126.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the organization and dissemination of information related to UFO research and investigation groups in the UK. The editorial stance appears to be one of facilitating communication and providing a central directory for these disparate groups, as evidenced by the detailed contact information and the listing of various roles such as Secretary, Librarian, and Research contacts. The document is purely informational, serving as a resource for members and interested parties to connect with these societies.