BUFORA Journal - Volume 03 No 04 - Autumn 1971

Magazine Overview

Title: BUFORA JOURNAL
Issue: Volume 3, Number 4
Date: Autumn 1971
Publisher: BRITISH U.F.O. RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

This issue of the BUFORA Journal, published by the British U.F.O. Research Association, presents a collection of articles and reports related to UFO phenomena, research, and associated topics. The journal aims to foster scientific investigation and disseminate evidence concerning Unidentified Flying Objects.

Editorial

The editorial section opens with a somber note, mourning the untimely deaths of two prominent American UFO researchers: Dr. James E. MacDonald of the University of Arizona and astrophysicist Morris K. Jessup. Both died by suicide under circumstances that the editor notes bear a number of parallels. While acknowledging coincidence as the most probable explanation, the editor cautions against wild speculation, emphasizing the need for proof and expressing concern for the surviving relatives. The editorial also touches upon the shifting public perception of UFO occupants, from benevolent 'space brothers' to 'sleazy monsters,' suggesting that UFO entities, like humans, exist on a spectrum of good and evil. The piece concludes by asserting that mature and balanced UFO investigators are less likely to encounter insurmountable problems, with the unbalanced and immature being more prone to 'grief.'

The Case of the Frozen Pond—An Explanation

This article examines the Vashon Island UFO case from February 18th, 1968, as described in the book 'UFOs The Whole Story' by Coral and Jim Lorenzen. The central mystery was a pond in a gravel pit found to be frozen over in association with a UFO sighting. The witnesses observed a lens-shaped object, estimated to be about 30ft in diameter, which moved from one side of the pit to the other during a period when it was not being observed. The article details several meteorological facts: the pond was frozen, the ice contained bubbles and sediment, it was layered, it was raining at the time, and adjacent puddles were not frozen, indicating that the ambient temperature had not been below freezing. The author proposes an explanation based on a scientific experiment involving a vacuum pump. When water is subjected to reduced pressure, it boils due to its own internal heat, causing its temperature to drop rapidly to freezing point and form ice. The author suggests that the UFO, by hovering over the pond and creating a vacuum, could have caused the water to boil and subsequently freeze, forming an ice layer. The time the witnesses were away from the scene is deemed sufficient for this process to have occurred. The article also briefly mentions a similar phenomenon observed in soil removal from fields.

UFO's and E.M. Radiation

This section addresses the frequent allusions to electromagnetic radiations and 'force fields' in relation to UFO sightings. It aims to clarify these concepts for those without a strong scientific background. The article explains the electromagnetic spectrum, of which visible light is a part, and notes that UFOs frequently emit visible light and their 'fields' can interfere with TV, Radio, and Radar. It also mentions reports of severe heat near UFOs and the simulation of ground object illumination by invisible rays. The article speculates that the rapid color changes observed in UFOs (from red to violet) might be related to the propulsion system producing proportional side effects. It discusses the possibility of UFOs emitting X-rays and gamma rays, which can be harmful to living organisms. The author notes that such radiation would only be detectable by instruments and would cease when the source is removed, unless radioactive material is jettisoned. The article also references John Keel's observations about UFO fields affecting battery-operated equipment and causing cars to halt. A personal anecdote is shared about a car experiencing a complete electrical failure, including the battery becoming ice cold, which later mysteriously recovered. The author suggests this could be due to a type of UFO radiation that halts ion flow in battery fluids, and notes a case where a diesel truck was less affected than a petrol car, hinting at different effects based on vehicle type. The section concludes by suggesting that E.M. radiations on frequencies yet to be investigated might be responsible and that this is a worthwhile area for research.

"A Glowing Thought"

This piece, contributed by Dr. G. G. Doel, discusses the glowing effects of UFOs, prompted by a discovery in 'New Scientist' about phosphors that convert infra-red radiation to visible light. The article explains how these phosphors, when painted onto diodes, can emit various colors. It notes that UFOs are often seen to glow brightly, which aids in their observation, especially at night. The intensity and color of these glows can change, sometimes correlating with changes in the UFO's speed, suggesting that the glow is directly or indirectly related to the UFO's power and propulsion system.

Notes & Quotes

This section includes several brief items:

• Quote: A quote from Joseph Glanvill, F.R.S., emphasizing the importance of judging actions by evidence rather than preconceived notions of impossibility.
• The Chairman resigns: An announcement of the resignation of Captain E. I. A. Mackay from the chairmanship of BUFORA after a long service.
• New Editorial status: The author of the editorial will become a member of the Committee ex officio after the AGM, freeing up an elective seat.
• 'UFOs-Key to the new age.': A mention of a new book by Arthur Shuttlewood, described as a stimulating and thought-provoking work for those interested in the 'Thing' at Warminster.
• A Norfolk mystery: BUFORA's affirmation of interest in 'Fortean' and paraphysical events is linked to an intriguing historical account of the Roman Emperor Carausius reportedly passing through the Norfolk village of Wroxham with lions, chariots, and chained prisoners. The article suggests this might be worth investigating, given the numerous UFO sightings in the Norfolk Broads region and the author's speculation about peculiar space-time continuum quirks generating strange happenings.

ESP AND THE BADDIES—A WARNING TO WATCHERS

This article, signed E.A.I.M., issues a strong warning about the dangers of attempting telepathic contact with 'space people,' whether they are ETIs, extra-dimensional projections, or other entities. The author states that many such 'contacts' have resulted in negative after-effects, including hallucinations, mental illness, nervous disorders, and physical decline. He argues that participants, due to inexperience and lack of training, fail to realize the profound dangers and risk of mental infection. The author draws a parallel to warnings about hard drugs and quotes an extract from the 'Journal of the British Society of Dowsers' which discusses ESP. This extract suggests that deliberate use of ESP can put one in rapport with 'Principalities and Powers,' which can include forces of evil. Such rapport, if established with malevolent entities, can lead to a 'diabolic invasion.' Conversely, rapport with forces of goodness is described as pleasant and profitable. The author concludes that mankind is generally more prone to encounter negative energies and warns that those who risk becoming 'Zombies' under alien influence should not complain if they face difficulties, as they have been warned.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of the BUFORA Journal include the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the analysis of specific UFO cases with proposed explanations, the exploration of the physical and electromagnetic aspects of UFOs, and the potential psychological and spiritual implications of UFO encounters. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious scientific inquiry, emphasizing evidence-based reasoning while acknowledging the possibility of unexplained phenomena and potential dangers associated with certain research practices, particularly those involving psychic or telepathic contact. The journal also serves as a platform for organizational updates and the promotion of related literature and historical mysteries.

This issue of 'UFOLOG', incorporated as a regular feature into 'JOURNAL', focuses on UFO phenomena and analysis. The primary content includes a review of John Keel's work and a compilation of numerous UFO sighting reports from around the world.

Review of John Keel's Work

The issue begins with a review of John Keel's findings on UFOs, particularly from his books 'Strange Creatures from Time & Space' and 'Operation Trojan Horse'. The reviewer notes Keel's extensive investigation over five years, acknowledging the risks he took with his journalistic reputation and financial security. However, the reviewer expresses that Keel's conclusions are not definitive. Keel proposes an 'ultraterrestrial' hypothesis, suggesting UFO occupants come from a parallel universe or another space-time continuum, rather than from distant planets. This idea is contrasted with the concept of hyperspace travel, which the reviewer finds more plausible and less reliant on postulating parallel universes, referencing a Paris physicist, 'Dr. Jacques Lemaitre'. The reviewer also touches upon Keel's view that UFO shapes and types suggest temporary manipulations of matter and energy, rather than actual machines. The review also covers Keel's insights into contactees and the 'men in black', with the reviewer largely agreeing on the deception involved. A strong connection is drawn between UFO visitations and psychical phenomena, though the reviewer disagrees with Keel's assertion that spiritualistic manifestations are merely disguises for UFO-denizens. The reviewer concludes by expressing admiration for Keel's determination and contribution to UFO research.

UFOLOG Section: UFO Sighting Reports

The 'UFOLOG' section, compiled by Mrs. K. Smith, presents a chronological list of UFO sighting reports. Each report includes a reference number, date, time, location, and a description of the sighting, often referencing local newspaper articles or witness accounts.

Key Incidents and Reports:

• Nuneaton, UK (February 24, 1971): Four policemen observed three single white lights moving at high speed in the sky, which then turned northwards. An amateur astronomer, Steve Melvin, corroborated seeing similar objects that made no noise and flew in a North Westerly direction.
• Northamptonshire, UK (November 13, 1970): An eight-year-old boy reported a yellow light in the sky that appeared to spin, zig-zag, and then vanish.
• Burgess Hill, Sussex, UK (November 15, 1970): A couple saw a red line in the sky, followed by a second object that dropped from it and flew off south at high speed. The initial object also departed at high speed.
• London, UK (November 21, 1970): A journalist reported an object with a yellow-orange nucleus and black oval outline, surrounded by red light, that glided across the sky, stopped, changed direction, and disappeared.
• Maraenui, New Zealand (May 7, 1970): A headmaster and teachers, along with 400 children, observed an object described as an opaque 'hole', then a 'huge wingless plane', and finally a round ball that moved away at high speed. The object changed shape from round to oval and vice versa.
• Hamilton, Illinois, USA (September 4, 1970): A woman reported seeing a moving object in the southwest sky emitting yellow to yellow-orange light, which then moved to the east and appeared to be bouncing.
• Kanoka, Missouri, USA (October 5, 1970): Two individuals saw a slow-moving pale blue circle that emitted a streak of yellowish light before fading away.
• Porto Alegre, Brazil (March 1, 1970): A family observed a roundish light for 40 minutes that performed complicated manoeuvres, changing color and brightness.
• Cabo Frio, Brazil (March 28, 1970): Fourteen witnesses saw a yellowish light that maneuvered, increased speed, turned red, and disappeared.
• Guanabara, Brazil (September 3, 1970): Almiro Martins reported an object emitting multicoloured lights, accompanied by heat and a deafening noise, which caused temporary blindness. The incident is under investigation.
• Northampton, UK (November 3, 1970): Several witnesses reported seeing three shining circular or spherical objects moving rapidly across the sky. Another resident reported a large circular object flying low, emitting a puff of blue smoke, and dropping vertically.
• Wootton, UK (November 2, 1970): A resident reported seeing a large circular object flying low, which emitted a puff of blue smoke and dropped down vertically.
• Apopka, Florida, USA (June 29, 1970): A family reported seeing a glowing green oval object with a smaller blue inner ring descending at a 45-degree angle towards their car. The object had a hazy edge and a convex bottom.
• Danvers, Illinois, USA (July 1, 1970): A couple observed a bright white light that split into red and white lights. The red light disappeared, while the white light hovered and then moved away.
• Michigan, USA (October 11, 1970): Roger Jayo reported seeing two brightly lit round discs flash overhead, accompanied by radio static.
• Champaign, Illinois, USA (September 1, 1970): Robert Paterson reported a bright white light that split into red and white lights, with the white light hovering and then moving away.
• Bushnell, Illinois, USA (September 5, 1970): Allen Robinson and Steve St. Clair sighted an unidentified flying object hovering over grain bins, described as giving off a blinding white light.
• Rolla, Missouri, USA (October 6, 1970): A man reported sighting a mysterious moon-shaped object with a phosphorescent glow, which descended rapidly and had a saw-tooth shape.
• Dorking, UK (March 15, 1971): Several witnesses reported an unidentified object with three lights in a banana curve that disappeared suddenly. Another witness described a dome-shaped object with brilliant lights that went out suddenly.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the nature of UFOs and their occupants, the psychological impact of sightings, and the distinction between misidentified phenomena and genuine unknown objects. The editorial stance, as indicated by the 'UFOLOG' section's note, encourages readers to decide for themselves whether a sighting warrants a conventional explanation or should be retained in the 'Unknown' category. There is a clear emphasis on reporting actual sightings and investigating them, as exemplified by the detailed accounts and the review of John Keel's dedicated research.

This issue of the BUFORA Journal, dated 1971/1972, primarily serves as a programme for the organization's upcoming meetings and lectures for the period. It also includes a compilation of numerous UFO sighting reports from various locations, collected by investigators and published in different local newspapers and newsletters.

Programme of Meetings for 1971/1972

The journal outlines a series of lectures and events scheduled between September 1971 and June 1972. These include:

• September 4th, 1971: 'First Capture Your UFO - By Instrumentation' by David Viewing.
• October 2nd, 1971: Annual General Meeting, featuring a Presidential Address, Chairman's Report, Treasurer's Report, and research discussions.
• November 6th, 1971: 'No Time For Saucers?' by Norman Oliver, exploring a provocative side to UFO research.
• December 4th, 1971: 'The Substance and the Shadow' by Dr. G. G. Doel, questioning whether UFOs are physical.
• January 8th, 1972: 'Intelligence in the Universe' by Andrew Tomas, discussing a controversial hypothesis.
• February 5th, 1972: '7 Years of Phenomena' in Warminster, by John Cleary-Baker, reporting on a research project.
• March 4th, 1972: 'UFOs and Documentation' by Charles H. Gibbs-Smith, delving into historical records.
• April 8th, 1972: 'UFOs, Communications and Semantics' by C. Maxwell Cade, exploring communication aspects.
• May 6th, 1972: 'Investigations of 'Landing Cases'' by Roger Stanway.
• June 3rd, 1972: A 'Brains Trust' meeting for audience questions.

Details for 'National Sky-Watch Day' and similar projects were to be announced later.

UFO Sighting Reports

The bulk of the issue is dedicated to detailed reports of UFO sightings, categorized by location and date. These reports are often prefaced with reference numbers, times, and the source publication.

United Kingdom Reports:

• Near Dorking (March 15th, 1971): A man, his wife, and daughter reported a bright, moving object shaped like a Vulcan Bomber with a quiet, aircraft-like noise. It ascended at an angle of about 45° before disappearing.
• Linton, Herefordshire (Date not given): A farmer, Ronald Sterry, saw a greenish-yellow light hovering and speeding over his farmyard. He described it as spinning and giving off a dull greenish-yellow light, appearing to come down to land at one point.
• Immingham (Date not given): Allan McGregor and Malcolm Dunwell witnessed a spherical shaped light that hung motionless before moving at an angle. They found it difficult to estimate its size and height.
• Corfton (January 2nd, 1971): Two eyewitnesses, Gerald Redman and Ken Edwards, reported a strange, fiery object, described as bright orangy-red with a black smoke trail, fluttering from side to side as it fell. It was estimated to be about the size of a car. Officials from RAF stations could offer no explanation.
• Dorking (April 2nd, 1971): Patrick O'Brien reported a turnip-shaped, white object that hovered for 60 seconds before moving towards Gatwick and disappearing into the sun.
• Wolverton (Near midnight, date not given): A motorist reported a grounded UFO in a field, described as a large round object with red lights and an amber flashing light on top. Police investigations found nothing.
• Centralia, Illinois, USA (November 24th, 1970): Sam Alli and Larry Patterson reported seeing a round object moving at jet speed, stopping, and then moving west much faster than a jet. They described it as perfectly round with a brilliant glow of white and yellow.
• Japan (March 6th, 1971): An orange-coloured fireball was seen tracing a parabola across the sky, moving faster than a supersonic jet and vanishing. It left a contrail that gradually melted away.
• Dorking (March 2nd, 1971): Mr. Lecluse reported a blue/green light outside his home, which was a carrot-shaped object with a glowing aura. Inside, a blood-red ball twisted and shot sparks. It moved west and disappeared. Similar sightings were reported by two other witnesses.
• Norbury Park, Dorking (March 13th, 1971): Miss R. Cousins saw a large, squarish blob of yellow light hanging motionlessly in the sky, brighter in the center.
• North Chingford (January 12th, 1971): Children at a primary school spotted a round, brightly coloured object that appeared to be spinning.
• Between East Budleigh and Exmouth (January 22nd, 1971): Three bus company employees saw three orange balls moving in a straight line, with smoke around them, disappearing after a few seconds.
• Sidcup, Kent (January 28th, 1971): A. J. Abell saw two steady bright white lights, described as like large car headlights, drifting slowly westwards before suddenly disappearing.
• Denton (March 25th, 1971): Two girls riding ponies saw a bright, luminous, orange cross with sparks, which appeared and disappeared, moving at varying altitudes and speeds.
• Tunstead, Norfolk (November 25th, 1970): Olaf Davy, who previously didn't believe in flying saucers, saw a bright light above the clouds that descended, stopped, and then moved. He later learned other people had seen the same object.
• Newport and Pontypool, Monmouthshire (January 1st, 1971): Mrs. Pamela Morrison reported a cigar-shaped object that turned and travelled towards Newport. Two men on the M.4 motorway saw a round, white light that grew larger as they approached.

Overseas Reports:

• Beckemeyer, Illinois, USA (November 16th, 1970): Teenagers and an adult saw a triangular object with orange and white lights, and a second object emerging from it, moving erratically.
• Sedalia, Missouri, USA (July 15th, 1967): Two witnesses saw a grey, metallic disc rising from behind a cloud, described as flattened with a domed top, moving vertically and then disappearing.
• Cortez, Colorado, USA (October 14th, 1970): Several residents reported seeing a large jelly bean-shaped object with three lights, which rose from the sagebrush and followed a motorcycle.
• Perth, Australia (Date not given): Geoff and Toni Richards reported two unidentified flying objects attacking their car on a highway. The objects glowed red, then white, and approached the car multiple times.
• Elvaston, Stover, USA (December 31st, 1970): Six young adults saw a 'flying flame' moving north-west, with another light dropping from it. The object was yellowish-orange, like a flame, with no smoke or sound. A later investigation found no trace.
• Lake Anten, Vastergotland, Sweden (August 29th-30th, 1970): At least 20 people witnessed a brilliant colour-changing ball at treetop level, described as oblong with indications of a cupola. It moved erratically, illuminated trees, and emitted a humming noise. Three crater-like depressions were found in the grass nearby.
• Kuusamo, North Finland (January 10th-11th, 1971): A government official reported seeing 16 bright, glowing UFOs in an echelon formation, described as ball-shaped or elongated/flat balls.
• Helleland, Norway (October 29th, 1970): Reider Salvesen reported seeing a circular object, smooth and bright, like nickel-plated. It glided forward, rose vertically at high speed, and then turned into a fireball. The object's movement caused his car's windscreen to smash, and he experienced physical effects like a sore tongue and eyes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed documentation of UFO sightings and the BUFORA organization's efforts to investigate and understand these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry, presenting witness accounts and investigative findings without overt skepticism or sensationalism, though it does note official explanations like meteorites and the unreliability of some reports. The inclusion of historical UFO reports and lectures on documentation and investigation suggests a commitment to rigorous study. The journal aims to inform its members and the public about UFO activity and related research.

This document, titled "MEMBER SOCIETIES," is dated April 1, 1970. It serves as a directory of various UFO research and study groups, primarily located in the United Kingdom. The content consists of lists of these organizations, their contact persons, and addresses, along with information regarding advertisements and editorial contacts.

Member Societies

The primary section of the document details numerous "MEMBER SOCIETIES" and their respective contact information as of April 1, 1970. 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

Additionally, two specific branches are 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.

Advertisements and Correspondence

The second page provides details on advertising rates and contacts for various administrative functions:

• ADVERTISEMENTS: Personal Column: 4d. a word. Display Rates: whole page £8.0.0d; Half page £4.0.0d; Quarter page £2.5..0d. Ad copy and related correspondence should be sent to the Vice-Chairman, L. E. Beer, 15 Freshwater Court, Crawford Street, London, W1H 1HS.
• CORRESPONDENCE: General-Honorary Secretary, Miss B. Wood, 6, Cairn Avenue, Ealing, London, W.5.
• SUBSCRIPTIONS: Contact: Mrs. A. Harcourt, 170 Faversham Road, Kennington, Ashford, Kent.
• EDITORIAL: Dr. J. Cleary-Baker, 3 Devenish Road, Weeke, Nr. Winchester, Hants.
• LIBRARIAN: Capt. I. Mackay, 5 Pitt Street, London, W.8.
• UFO REPORT/PRESS CUTTINGS: Contact: Omar Fowler, 149 Mytchett Road, Camberley, Surrey.

Printing Information

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

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this document is the organization and networking of UFO research enthusiasts and groups within the UK. It reflects a structured approach to collecting and disseminating information on UFO phenomena, with dedicated individuals and societies managing different aspects of the organization, from research to subscriptions and press cuttings. The editorial stance, as indicated by the contact person for editorial matters, Dr. J. Cleary-Baker, suggests a focus on the formalization and administration of UFO research activities.