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BUFORA Journal - Volume 03 No 06 - Spring 1972
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Title: BUFORA JOURNAL Issue: Volume 3, Number 6 Date: Spring 1972 Publisher: British U.F.O. Research Association (BUFORA) Country: United Kingdom Language: English
Magazine Overview
Title: BUFORA JOURNAL
Issue: Volume 3, Number 6
Date: Spring 1972
Publisher: British U.F.O. Research Association (BUFORA)
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English
This issue of the BUFORA JOURNAL delves into the complex nature of UFO phenomena, exploring both psychological interpretations and the ongoing scientific investigation efforts. It features the association's annual report, details on membership, and specific case reports, including a sighting over Plymouth.
Editorial: The Psychological Saucer
The editorial, written by the Journal Editor, addresses criticisms received for suggesting that UFO manifestations might be attributed to psychological phenomena. The author reiterates his stance, first expressed in a 1965 article, that while some UFO reports may concern real, material objects (estimated at 5-10%), a significant portion could be explained by psychological factors. He references the work of C.G. Jung, who explored UFOs from a psychological standpoint, relating them to the Collective Unconscious and archetypal significance. The editorial also mentions Tom Comella (pseudonym 'Peter Kor'), who views UFOs as "Signs of the Times" reflecting a spiritual vacuum in modern society. The author agrees with Jung that UFOs have a connection with the human psyche, but diverges from Comella by not entirely dismissing the possibility of objective, physical phenomena, though he notes that conclusive scientific proof remains elusive. He suggests that the study of the "psychological saucer" can shed light on the human psyche and that some individuals may be seeking spiritual roots in a materialistic world.
The editorial concludes by emphasizing that while the "psychological saucer" is intriguing, the focus should remain on the 5-10% of unidentified physical flying objects. The author expresses a growing suspicion that terrestrial designs, rather than extraterrestrial ones, might account for some of these sightings, tempering the enthusiasm for the extra-terrestrial hypothesis. He stresses that the "UFO expert" is largely a journalistic construct and that all involved are merely students of a mysterious phenomenon.
The Substance and the Shadow
This section, extracted from a lecture given to BUFORA on December 4th, 1972, discusses the re-orientation of UFO research due to the failure of traditional scientific methods. It highlights the work of Jacques Vallee, who in his book 'A Passport to Magonia,' attempts to link UFOs with folk beliefs, myths, and psychic phenomena, suggesting a common origin in a "Natural Phenomenon" that blends physical and mental aspects. The author also introduces John A. Keel and his book 'Operation Trojan Horse,' which posits that humans are recipients of an "eternal Cosmic Joke" perpetrated by an alien intelligence using UFOs and associated lore for deception. The article questions the point of continued research if humans are outmaneuvered, but argues for a rational approach to understand the "colossal cosmic conundrum" and "call the bluff" of these manifestations, which may be intended to cloud intellect and deter research.
The author suggests that UFOs and their operators might possess technology far advanced beyond human understanding, capable of manipulating physical laws. He warns against undertaking investigations alone, emphasizing the need for knowledgeable companions. The text also touches upon "effect X," a term used to explain the strange behavior of individuals claiming UFO contact, who may suffer mental changes post-encounter. The article posits that UFOs can influence our conscious and subconscious selves, potentially through a universal 'mind' or 'God.' It calls for a "think tank" of experts from various fields to analyze these factors and advocates for a combination of scientific methods and open-mindedness to understand the phenomenon.
BUFORA - Chairman's Annual Report
The Chairman's Annual Report details the administrative activities of BUFORA over the past year. It acknowledges the dedicated administrative team and highlights several changes within the Executive Committee, including resignations and appointments. Notable figures mentioned include Stephen Smith, who resigned as Director of Research, and Captain Ivar Mackay, who stepped down as Chairman after nearly four years. The report notes a drop in membership numbers, despite gains from a publicity drive during an August UFO flap, and mentions that London meetings have been more successful in retaining members. The report also touches upon the association's financial health, stating it is in a "healthy financial position" with no immediate plans to raise subscriptions. Publications produced include three Journals and a SUMMER NEWSLETTER. The report emphasizes the need for BUFORA to increase its public profile and technical recognition, noting that many potentially interesting reports go unreported because witnesses are unaware of the organization or are reluctant to share their experiences.
Other Sections and Content
- Officers (honorary): Lists the key personnel of BUFORA, including the President, Vice-Presidents, and National Executive Committee members.
- AIMS: Outlines the objectives of the association: to promote unbiased scientific investigation, collect and disseminate UFO evidence, and co-ordinate research.
- MEMBERSHIP: Details the annual subscription cost and the criteria for membership.
- JOURNAL: States that the journal is published quarterly and available to members only.
- CONTENTS: Provides a table of contents for the issue, listing articles such as "Editorial," "The Substance and the Shadow," "BUFORA—Chairman's Annual Report," "Should We Advertise?", "Association Viewpoint," "From your Chairman," "Novosti Information Service," "Notes and Quotes," "UFO Observed over Plymouth—15th/16th August, 1971," "Report by the National Investigation Co-ordinator," "Enthusiasm," "UFOLOG (Sightings Supplement)," and "Previous UFOLOG Reports."
- UFO Observed over Plymouth—15th/16th August, 1971: A specific incident report detailing a UFO sighting over Plymouth.
- UFOLOG (Sightings Supplement): A supplement dedicated to UFO sightings.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of UFO phenomena, the challenges of UFO research, and the organizational aspects of BUFORA. There is a clear tension between psychological explanations for UFO sightings and the possibility of genuine, physical phenomena, with the editorial leaning towards a more cautious, skeptical approach that acknowledges both possibilities while emphasizing the need for rigorous investigation. The association's efforts to promote itself and its research are also a prominent theme, highlighting the challenges of gaining public and technical recognition in the field of ufology.
Title: National Sky Watch
Issue Date: 26/27th June 1971
This issue of the National Sky Watch publication focuses on UFO research, sightings, and related activities within the BUFORA organization and the broader UFO community.
National Sky Watch Exercise 1971
The issue begins by detailing the success of the 1971 National Sky Watch exercise, organized by Lincoln Richford. The event was praised for its cooperative effort between various groups, which successfully projected a serious image to the reporter Christopher Ford from THE GUARDIAN. Despite generally unfavorable weather across the country, the exercise demonstrated the potential for inter-society collaboration. Lincoln Richford has agreed to organize the 1972 watch, scheduled for 24/25th June.
Donations and Research Initiatives
A donation of 8mm color film was received from Mr. Huntington of Doncaster. The film, taken on August 11, 1970, appears to show a high-altitude vapor trail reflecting in the setting sun. The film was loaned to FLYING SAUCER REVIEW for examination, with a copy made for BUFORA. The original is believed to still be with FSR.
Several research initiatives are highlighted:
- Punched Card Index: Initiated by Stephen Smith, this project is pending and aims to use hand-punched cards for coding UFO reports. Anthony Pace is expected to ensure its continuation.
- Project Warminster: Launched in May, this project, coordinated by Arnold West under John Cleary-Baker, investigates current UFO reports in Warminster and reviews past significant cases. The Association underwrote the project with up to £100, with half allocated to a caravan sited in Warminster, loaned by Arnold West. An inexpensive camera was also purchased for sky-watchers. The project was recently discontinued for the winter, with a full report not yet available.
Notable Sightings and Flaps
- August Flap: On August 16th, police officer P.C. Leslie Leek and colleagues responded to a UFO report in Aldridge, Staffordshire, taking 12 photos. The story gained national press attention. BUFORA received a high volume of reports during this period, coinciding with reports of a flap in Southern Australia and an earlier flap in New Zealand. William Moser, Secretary of the UFO Investigation Centre in Sydney, commented on the resurgence of activity.
- Tim O'Brien's Role: Tim O'Brien took over as National Investigations Co-ordinator on September 1st, making an enthusiastic start during the flap. The Association's press cutting agency (Durrants) provided over 200 cuttings since September 1st, detailing approximately 100 UFO reports received in about three weeks, a significant increase from the usual 4-5 reports per week.
- Regional Coordinators: The system of Regional Coordinators is being reinstated to facilitate speedy investigation of sightings, with officers being carefully chosen.
- Aldridge Photo Analysis: The Aldridge photos were investigated by Dr. Allen Hynek, Roger Stanway, and Julian Hennessey, who concluded that P.C. Leek had captured images of street lights while photographing Mars. However, not all reports have readily explained origins.
- Tynemouth Sighting: An initial appraisal of a UFO sighting over Tynemouth on August 15th/16th, 1971, is presented, with a detailed report sent to BUFORA Chairman Roger Stanway and published in FSR Case Histories.
Future Prospects and Association Development
The issue discusses future plans for BUFORA, including a potential Northern Regional Conference in 1972. Lionel Beer is reviewing the Association's press and public relations. Discussions are underway with the Charity Commissioners regarding BUFORA's registration as a charity to gain financial advantages. An inventory of assets has been completed. The Banbury ATV film case is under active investigation, with the 16mm film being analyzed by experts.
Betty Wood, the Chairman, thanks members for their continued support and urges them to respond to requests for information. Roger H. Stanway invites comments and suggestions for the development of the Association. He also mentions his participation in a BBC 'Man Alive' program on UFOs.
Space Exploration and Extraterrestrial Life
Several articles touch upon space exploration and the possibility of extraterrestrial life:
- Cosmos 475: Launched on February 25, 1972, this Soviet satellite carries scientific instruments for space research.
- Lunar Exploration: The USSR has developed a standardized automatic platform for delivering equipment to the moon, used for missions like Luna 20 and Lunokhod 1. Academician Georgi Petrov highlights the promise of automatic vehicles for space exploration and tracing planetary history.
- Origin of Lunar Soil: Soviet geochemists simulated lunar soil formation by striking basalt with a laser beam, producing micro-craters and spherical pellets similar to those found in lunar samples.
- Extraterrestrial Contact Debate: Professor Zdenek Kopal of Manchester University is quoted, expressing caution about contacting advanced extraterrestrial civilizations, citing the vast evolutionary differences and potential risks. He advises against answering any 'space-phone' signals.
- Dr. F. D. Drake's Search: The article mentions Dr. Drake's 1960 search for extraterrestrial technologies using the 85ft radio telescope at Green Bank, Virginia, targeting Tau Ceti and Epsilon Eridani.
- CETI Conference: The first Conference on Communication with Extra-Terrestrial Intelligence (CETI) in Soviet Armenia revealed details of a three-year 'sky watch' conducted by Dr. Troitsky, searching for signals from advanced civilizations.
- Mars Exploration: The American space program, particularly the Mariner 9 probe, is exploring Mars. Recent findings suggest Mars is a dynamic world with evidence of water vapor, improving the chances of supporting primitive life.
- Pioneer 10 Plaque: The Pioneer 10 spacecraft carries a plaque designed by Dr. Carl Sagan and Dr. Frank D. Drake to indicate Earth's origin and humanity's existence to potential extraterrestrial interceptors.
Association Viewpoint and Notes
The "Association Viewpoint" section discusses the reinstatement of the Secretarial page and the new Committee's plans for research and expansion. It critiques recent TV programs on UFOs for their impartiality and reliance on stock characters. The issue notes a quiet period for sightings after the Oxfordshire flap, despite Venus being bright. A new book, "Man and the Universe" by Zdenek Kopal, is mentioned, along with his cautionary views on extraterrestrial contact.
Notes & Quotes include:
- Project Warminster Clarification: A correction is issued regarding newspaper reports about Project Warminster, stating that no UFO photographs were taken and the expenditure was under £70, not £150.
- The Charlton Crater: The article clarifies that investigators in 1963 did not reject the lightning strike explanation for the Charlton Crater without reason, and the appearances did not tally with it.
- Research & Good Manners: A critique of some 'scientific' UFO investigators who employ provocative tactics and rudeness.
Obituaries and Thoughts: The death of Dan Butcher, noted for his knowledge of folklore, is reported with sympathy. A quote from Plotinus on the dependence of the universe on automatic activity is included.
Parlez-Vous Plutonian?: The phenomenon of 'Plutonian' speech observed on TV is explained as Glossolalia, referencing Professor Flournoy's work.
International Conference: An upcoming conference at Caxton Hall on May 27th is announced, with the Editor as guest speaker.
Definitions: A humorous definition of neurotic, psychotic, and psychiatrist is provided.
The Annual Skywatch: Lincoln Richford is appointed National Skywatch Organiser. A question is raised about the viability of a Skywatch WEEK given the unreliable weather.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the active pursuit of UFO research, the importance of organized investigation, and the potential for inter-society cooperation. There is a strong emphasis on documenting sightings, analyzing evidence, and maintaining a scientific yet open-minded approach. The publication also engages with broader scientific and philosophical questions concerning space exploration, the search for extraterrestrial life, and the implications of potential contact with alien civilizations. The editorial stance appears to be one of diligent research, critical analysis, and a commitment to advancing the understanding of the UFO phenomenon, while also acknowledging the limitations and challenges involved.
Title: UFOLOG (Sightings Supplement)
Issue Date: January 14, 1972
Publisher: BUFORA (British UFO Research Association)
Document Type: Magazine Issue
This issue of UFOLOG, a supplement to the main publication, focuses on UFO sighting reports from the British Isles, detailing investigations, witness accounts, and preliminary analysis. The content reflects the period from September to December 1971, with some reports dating back to August 1971.
Analysis of a Specific Sighting (Von Metz and O'Brady-Jones)
The first article critically examines a UFO sighting by Mr. von Metz and Mr. O'Brady-Jones, who are commended for their systematic and analytical approach. However, the author, A. R. Pace, expresses suspicion that the observed phenomenon might have been the planet Mars. This conclusion is based on the sighting's occurrence on the same night as another Mars-attributed UFO report, its duration of over two hours, and the detailed graphs of lateral movement and elevation provided by the observers. Pace argues that Mars's movement, considering Earth's rotation, could explain the observed erratic movements and elevation changes, with discrepancies potentially attributed to experimental error. Drawings made by the observers are suggested to be reminiscent of a bright light source affected by color aberrations and atmospheric turbulence. The description of the UFO as a "rather prominent object with a definite orange glow" is also linked to Mars's reddish appearance, especially at low altitudes.
BUFORA Investigation Procedures and Statistics
The report by the National Investigation Co-ordinator covers the first four months of their work (September 1st to December 31st, 1971). It outlines the systematic process of receiving, investigating, and classifying UFO sightings. The classification system ranges from 'Unclassified' (insubstantial) to 'SSS' (top grade, potentially publishable). Incoming sightings are divided into 'FILE' and 'INVESTIGATE' trays, with 'INVESTIGATE' cases further categorized into 'IMMEDIATE' and 'DELAYED' during periods of high activity ("flaps").
Statistics reveal that the primary source of material is Durrant's Press Cutting Service (510 reports), followed by BUFORA members and the public (51 reports). Out of 107 reports considered "worth recording," action was taken on 107. Of these, 51 were recorded but not investigated, 57 involved reports sent to local investigators, and 29 were further classified as S, SS, or SSS, with 9 deemed of outstanding interest.
Significant Investigations (Case Summaries)
Several specific cases are highlighted:
- Report No. 1100 (Droitwich, 24 August 1971): A case involving three girl-guide leaders frightened by an alleged landing craft. The investigation was hampered by press ridicule and publicity, with witnesses unwilling to discuss the event.
- Report No. 1118 (Newcastle-under-Lyme, 18 August 1971): An investigation by R. Stanway and A. R. Pace of a brilliantly illuminated craft, estimated at 200 meters long with 12-14 windows, observed over a house. The report is graded SSS, but the single witness (a housewife) raises some doubt.
- Report No. 1181 (Oxford Area, 26 October 1971): An ongoing investigation by R. Stanway of a daylight sighting of a high-flying UFO captured on film by an ATV camera crew. This case could be upgraded to SSS if the film reveals alien characteristics.
- Report No. 1182 (Northwood, 27 October 1971): A woman graduate teacher reported a magnificent craft, 1000 feet long and made of glass-like material, hovering and exhibiting near-instantaneous acceleration (estimated at over 200,000 mph). The investigation is ongoing, with efforts to find other witnesses and contact local authorities.
- Report No. 1194 (Stourbridge, 16 November 1971): A nighttime report by two schoolboys of a spinning, dome-shaped object hovering over Corbett Hospital. Two compatible sketches were made, but corroboration is lacking.
- Report No. 1196 (Barrow-in-Furness, 21 November 1971): A man and his wife reported an enormous illuminated craft, possibly over 1000 feet long, gliding soundlessly past their window. The man's epilepsy is noted as a potential factor, but his wife corroborates the sighting.
- Report No. 1199 (Dawley, 24 November 1971): A well-corroborated nighttime sighting of an illuminated, dome-shaped object hovering near seven witnesses, including a family and their neighbors.
- Report No. 1201 (London E.17, 19 November 1971): A daylight sighting by two designers of an object with a unique shape (smaller dome on a larger, inverted dome).
- Report No. 1026 (Truro, 14 November 1971): A headmaster and his wife witnessed a large, bright, red to orange circular object that became elliptical, with smaller objects separating and rejoining it. A possible connection is made to a nearby incident where pigs were killed under unusual circumstances.
Banbury Events and Concerns
The report expresses concern over the "Banbury Flap," noting that while genuine UFO sightings may have occurred, the events have been over-emphasized and sensationalized by local media and individuals like Keith Palmer. The area's proximity to seven airfields (including R.A.F.), military zones, and the testing of new helicopters are suggested as potential explanations for some sightings. Richard Colborne is credited with unmasking false reporting, while reports of "hairy monsters" are deemed unsubstantiated hoaxes.
Organization of Investigations Section
BUFORA has 112 official investigators, with 6 more awaiting acceptance, primarily concentrated in urban areas. The report discusses the need for Regional Co-ordinators with specific qualities like leadership, experience, and knowledge of astronomy and meteorology. Several regions are in the process of establishing co-ordinators, including Yorkshire, Surrey, Cornwall, and Scotland.
Concluding Remarks
The frequency of sightings, high in September-November 1971, moderated in December and had completely died down by mid-January 1972. No reports were received in the first 14 days of the new year.
Enthusiasm: Paul Wagg's UFO Catalogue
This section highlights Paul Wagg, a sixth-former, who has compiled a catalogue of nearly 1,500 UFO sightings between 1946 and 1965. Wagg's work, which took three years to compile, includes details on date, time, and location, using an alphabetical coding system for peculiarities. The catalogue is based on a file of over 2,000 sightings, with plans to extend it to 1971. A tabulation of sightings per month over eleven years (1960-1970) shows August as having the highest percentage of reports (99), with the 6th of August suggested as a peak day. The author notes that holiday periods might influence these results, and suggests the National Sky-Watch be held on August 6th.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are the systematic investigation of UFO reports, the analysis of sighting data, and the critical evaluation of witness testimony. There is a clear emphasis on scientific rigor and the attempt to find conventional explanations, such as planetary sightings (Mars), misidentified aircraft, or atmospheric phenomena. BUFORA's stance appears to be one of cautious investigation, aiming to separate credible evidence from sensationalism and hoaxes. The publication also highlights the dedication of its members and investigators in gathering and analyzing UFO data.
This issue of SPACELINK, titled 'World UFO News and Flying Saucer Scene,' is Volume 6 Number 4 from 1971. It is published by BUFORA and focuses on UFO phenomena, featuring numerous witness accounts and investigative reports from the United Kingdom.
UFO Sightings and Reports
The magazine presents a series of detailed reports on UFO sightings that occurred primarily in October 1971. These accounts describe a variety of phenomena:
- September 30, 1971, West Malling, Kent: Mr. Ron Foreman reported a 7-foot tall creature in a silvery suit with a glass helmet outside his cottage. The entity glided away and later returned with another.
- October 17, 1971, Carmarthen: Mr. Jack Rowe witnessed a white, spherical object, much larger than a beach ball, bouncing along the sea front and glowing strongly.
- October 17, 1971, Farnborough: A former R.A.F. pilot, Mr. Ruck-Keene, described observing a bright yellowish-white light for about 19 minutes. The object moved erratically, stopped and started, changed color to red briefly, and was estimated to be five miles away at an altitude of 3,000 feet. His nephew, Jonathan, corroborated the sighting, noting the object's irregular elliptical orbit and color change.
- October 19, 1971, Banbury, Oxon: Mr. Brian Burchel saw an intense red light and a large, illuminated red disc flipping over and over. He managed to take two color photographs.
- October 20, 1971, Weldon, Northants: Mrs. Eileen Muir reported a bright, white, shining object, resembling an upturned mushroom, landing in a field. It emitted a high-pitched whistle and had red and green lights.
- October 20, 1971, Banbury: Mr. Keith Palmer observed a circular orange object hovering over the General Food factory for several minutes before disappearing.
- October 21, 1971, Grimsbury, east Banbury: Rev. R. G. Hayne saw a white light above the cattle market that moved north, gained altitude, and turned red.
- October 22, 1971, Banbury: Mr. Pithers reported a star-like object moving in a straight course, which then made a sharp left turn and had a bluish hue.
- October 26, 1971, Enstone, Banbury: An A.T.V. television team filmed a yellowish/white, glowing object. This sighting was also witnessed by Mr. Keith Duffy and workers at the Wolvercote papermill.
- October 26, 1971, Banbury, Oxon: Multiple witnesses, including A.T.V. cameramen and Dave Chatt, reported an orange/white object. It was described as an orange sphere leaving a dense vapour trail, then a white missile making a roaring noise, and was seen to make a right-angle turn.
- October 26, 1971, Towcester: Mrs. Peachie described a small white rocket with no fins, an offset nose cone, and a diagonal blue stripe, which passed overhead making a noise like distant thunder before disappearing.
- October 26, 1971, Shutford (west of Banbury): Mr. Burton saw a large elongated object with 6 to 8 window-like lights, which rose and accelerated westward very rapidly.
- October 27, 1971, Hanborough, Oxon: Two unusual lights were observed by several people, described as shimmering or flaming, moving slowly downwards. A plane with a rosy pink vapour trail appeared afterward.
- October 27, 1971, Yarnton, near Banbury: Mr. G. Chapman saw two orange/yellow objects moving at normal aircraft speed, which tilted, changed direction, and disappeared.
- October 30, 1971, Buttewick Marsh, Leicestershire: Mr. Terry Walker and companions reported a red light dropping onto the marsh, likened to a distress flare. Later, a pillar-box red light bounced across the marsh, followed by a bright white light moving in a rectangular pattern.
Previous UFOlog Reports and Appraisals
The issue includes a section reviewing previous UFOlog reports (Ref. 3/5/1 to 3/5/22) with appraisals by A. R. Pace and the Editor. These appraisals offer potential explanations for various sightings, including:
- Report 3/5/1: Suggested as a meteorological balloon due to its shape and movement.
- Report 3/5/2: Considered potentially a satellite path or re-entry, though the color was unusual.
- Report 3/5/3: Attributed to clouds and not lights.
- Report 3/5/4: Compared to the Tremonton, Utah sighting, with a suggestion of high-flying birds.
- Report 3/5/5: Described as an interesting report, but the ladies involved could not be contacted, leaving it sub judice.
- Report 3/5/6 & 3/5/10: Evaluation was ongoing or subject to a separate report.
- Report 3/5/7: Identified as Mars and mirage, with an element of hysteria.
- Report 3/5/8: Possibly a cloud with sunset colors, or an auto-kinetic illusion.
- Report 3/5/11: Suggested as a vehicle on the ground with doors open, later closed.
- Report 3/5/12: Interpreted as clouds at high altitude illuminated by moonlight.
- Report 3/5/13: Questioned if it could have been a Sun Dog.
- Report 3/5/14: Suggested as navigation lights of an aircraft, with the duration being an overestimate.
- Report 3/5/15: Explained as Mars and mirage, plus hysteria.
- Report 3/5/16: Described as a reflection phenomenon.
- Report 3/5/17: Dismissed as a minor sighting not worth investigating.
- Report 3/5/18: Considered a potentially authentic flying object of unconventional type, requiring further investigation.
- Reports 3/5/19, 20 & 21: Referred to the Barium Thermite experiment, with an incorrect date noted for Report 21.
- Report 3/5/22: Identified as a bright meteor.
Stop Press Section
The 'Stop Press' section addresses two specific cases:
- Oliver Lerch Disappearance Case: This case is strongly debunked by NICAP, who state it is a fabrication from around 1943, with no evidence of a Lerch family in South Bend in 1889, impossible footprints in the snow given the weather, and a story involving alien abduction. The report suggests the tale is enough to make one doubt flying saucers.
- Alleged Hoyle Press Conference: In response to reader inquiries, Professor Hoyle's secretary confirmed that a press conference in London, as reported, was absolute fabrication. However, it is noted that Professor Hoyle did give a press conference in Canada. Author John Keel suggests the report might be linked to the release of Hoyle's book, 'The New Face of Science,' and that the National Bulletin might have used his name without proper verification.
Editorial and Organizational Information
The final pages contain information about the end of a popular Canadian UFO publication, 'Saucers, Space & Science,' due to decreasing public interest. It also reassures readers that BUFORA and its 'Journal' are continuing, despite internal challenges. The issue provides contact details for advertisements, correspondence, subscriptions, editorial matters, and the librarian. It also lists branches of BUFORA, including Halifax and Northern Ireland, and mentions member societies. Information is also provided for booking a caravan at Warminster and for general information.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed reporting of numerous UFO sightings across the UK in late 1971, the critical evaluation of these sightings with potential mundane explanations, and the debunking of specific sensationalized cases. The editorial stance, as stated by BUFORA, is that the organization does not hold corporate views on UFO phenomena, and individual contributors are responsible for their own views. The magazine appears to maintain a balance between reporting unexplained phenomena and offering rational explanations or identifying hoaxes.