BUFORA Journal - Volume 03 No 11 - Summer 1973

Magazine Overview

This issue of the BUFORA JOURNAL, Volume 3, No. 11, published in Summer 1973 by The British U.F.O. Research Association, presents a collection of UFO sighting reports and related articles. The cover features the magazine title in gold lettering and an illustration of a UFO over a globe. The journal is published quarterly and is available to members only or by exchange.

Editorial Stance and Content

The editorial, written by Norman Oliver, outlines the journal's purpose: to report on Association events and research, to inform members about global ufological developments, and to serve as a platform for members' opinions. Oliver emphasizes the importance of an open-minded approach to ufology, suggesting that no possibility should be ignored, even while acknowledging the ETH (Extraterrestrial Hypothesis) as a primary consideration. He references a Flying Saucer Review editorial and his own previous article to support the idea that researchers should not limit their focus too narrowly.

Key Articles and Reports

Let's Look Around...

This section features several intriguing UFO reports:

• Girl Flees as UFO Dissolves: A translated report from Denmark details an incident on October 4th, 1967, where a 16-year-old girl, Miss Birgit Skovsgaard Nilsen, witnessed a silent object hovering above the road. She described it as mixed blue-white, like a welding flame, with pulsating lights. The object's bottom part appeared to dissolve, frightening her, and it was gone when she looked back.
• Sarpsborg UFOs: Two reports from Norway, supplied by Richard Farrow, describe sightings around Sarpsborg. One occurred around 0400 and involved two enormous oval objects hovering one over the other, emitting a bright white light with no sound. The objects were described as airship-like, about 40 meters long and 3 meters in diameter. The witness, taxi driver Roald Stensrud, noted his car's dynamo was affected after the sighting. Another report from Kongsvinger (0413-1416) involved a large cigar-shaped object, pulsating blue, with red pipes and a red-blue flame, hovering silently for about half a minute.
• UFO Experiences from FATE Magazine: Two letters, originally published in American issues of FATE magazine, are presented:
• Mimi Gorzelle (Illinois, August 1967): This account describes a woman driving at night who was beckoned to stop by a bright light. She saw three other cars and a man in a white coverall who led her to a spaceship on the prairie. Inside, she observed men in business suits being escorted into a craft filled with metal cabinets and controls. The men spoke an unfamiliar language. She was told she would awaken with no memory of the experience.
• Trudy Van Riper (Austin, Texas, November 3rd, 1971): This report details a woman waking to her cats' distress, seeing a glowing elliptical object in her backyard. A vehicle resembling a Volkswagen landed, and three small men emerged. The men communicated telepathically, asking about pigs in a field, and then departed. The woman later learned a neighbor had lost several pigs.
• Neville Maxwell (South Australia, late 1972): A 19-year-old apprentice mechanic reported a UFO sighting while driving at night. His car's engine and lights malfunctioned, and the radio emitted computer-like sounds. He observed a 'flying saucer' in a nearby paddock, described as a cut diamond shape with three coloured lights flashing underneath. The object remained for about 40 minutes before lifting off rapidly. Afterward, his car started normally. The site later revealed four shallow holes possibly made by an air hose.
• Kimba, S. Australia Sighting (February 15th, 1973): A newspaper report details Brian Hunt and Sharyn Finckler seeing an orange light near Kimba, with a figure resembling an astronaut suspended above the ground. Constable P. Summerton confirmed the witnesses were reliable and noted a similar sighting by a local farmer, Max Inglis.

Organization Information

The journal also lists the Officers and National Executive Committee of BUFORA, including President Dr. G. G. DOEL, Chairman R. STANWAY, and Journal Editor N. T. OLIVER. It details the Association's aims, membership details (subscription £2.40 UK, $6 USA/Canada), and contact information for the editor.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings from various global locations, witness testimonies, and the ongoing investigation and documentation of Unidentified Flying Objects. The editorial stance, as articulated by Norman Oliver, is one of open-minded scientific inquiry, advocating for the consideration of all possibilities within ufology without prematurely dismissing any theories. The journal aims to be a comprehensive record of ufological activity and a forum for discussion among its members.

This issue of "A Pot-Pourri of Association News, Notes, Quotes and Comment" delves into various UFO-related topics, featuring eyewitness accounts, theoretical discussions, and organizational updates. The content spans reports from different countries and includes analyses of sightings.

Sighting Reports and Analysis

The issue begins with a report from Constable Peter Summerton regarding a UFO sighting in Kimba, Australia. He recounts an incident where a man named Hunt described a vehicle following him, which then increased speed. Another witness, a truck driver, allegedly saw the same UFO and a figure of a man standing in the light. Despite searching the area, no physical evidence was found, but Summerton felt certain that 'something' was seen.

Another detailed account describes an incident on January 21, 1972, near Leknes airfield on Vetvag Island, Norway. A large oval object, emitting a strong blue-white light, was observed hovering over a mountain. It ejected smaller oval objects, one of which approached the airfield before rejoining the main object. The sighting concluded with bright flashes and the object disappearing to the ENE after seven minutes. The witnesses, a family and another man, requested anonymity. The report notes that three days later, a military plane circled the mountain top where the UFOs had hovered.

Further reports include a brief mention of "abominable blobs" seen over Slough, UK, which exploded in flames and black smoke, with responsibility denied by several official bodies. A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to an analysis of a UFO sighting by Mrs. Tickner on February 6, 1973, near Blackheath, UK. The author, an Air Traffic Control Officer at Heathrow, provides a detailed explanation, using diagrams of aircraft approach paths, suggesting that Mrs. Tickner likely observed an aircraft. The explanation covers the aircraft's descent, turns, and the behaviour of its lights, attributing the perceived phenomena to standard aviation procedures and lighting configurations.

Association News and Events

The "Round & About" sections cover various news and notes from UFO organizations. Betty Wood reports on the end of London lectures and wishes readers a happy UFO hunting season. She mentions receiving requests for UFO information in Spanish and a humorous anecdote about a reviewer's comment on "fuzzy photographs." Wood also discusses attending an Erich von Daniken lecture on "Was God an Astronaut," noting the polarized reactions from the audience. A member from Kenya reports that extracts from von Daniken's book are causing a stir. A query is raised about Halley's Comet.

Norman Oliver contributes notes on "Abominable Blobs" and "Von Daniken Again," reiterating the Slough incident and his experience with a von Daniken lecture. He also highlights "Caveat Emptor," a humorous U.S. UFO magazine, and discusses the pronunciation of "UFO."

Lionel Beer's "Vice-Chairman's Notes" mentions a suggestion for Dr. Allen Hynek to speak at a lecture festival and the possibility of BUFORA members attending. He also details BUFORA's publicity efforts since its founding in 1962, including mentions in the SUNDAY MIRROR, DAILY MAIL, and SHE magazine, as well as outreach to school children. He notes the reprinting of the organization's information leaflet.

Under "Other Magazines," the issue points to a pro-UFO article in THE POLICE REVIEW and a "in person" article on Dr. Hynek in NEW SCIENTIST, which suggests Hynek would be remembered for making UFOs respectable.

The Staffordshire Branch, under Paul Gregory, outlines its "Programme of Meetings" for late 1973, including topics like "Staffordshire Casebook," "UFO Theories," "UFO Forum," and "Christmas Story" (discussing if a star could be a UFO).

Publications and Resources

The magazine mentions an American edition of "MYSTERIOUS BRITAIN" and Donald Keyhoe's book "ALIENS FROM SPACE." It announces "THE CATALOGUE," a five-volume publication intended to reassemble and cross-reference UFO information. The comet Kohoutek '73 is noted as being visible.

Brian Ford's book "THE EARTH WATCHERS" is criticized for its "ill-informed references" to BUFORA, with steps being taken to correct inaccuracies. BUFORA is offering a booklet titled "A GUIDE TO U.F.O. PHENOMENA" for sale.

Subscription and Accommodation Information

Information is provided regarding subscription renewals for the annual subscription (£2.40) and an offer for accommodation in Brighton.

Miscellaneous

A caravan for "Skywatchers" is available at Warminster. The article on Mrs. Tickner's sighting is submitted by a member who wishes to remain anonymous, with the contributor being welcomed to the panel of evaluators.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include eyewitness UFO sightings from various locations, the analysis and potential explanations for these sightings (often suggesting conventional causes like aircraft), and the activities and news of UFO research organizations, particularly BUFORA. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into UFO phenomena, while also maintaining a critical and analytical approach, as demonstrated by the detailed explanation of Mrs. Tickner's sighting. There is an emphasis on information sharing, organizational updates, and the promotion of UFO literature and resources. The tone is generally informative and engaging, with a mix of serious reporting and lighter commentary.

This issue of the BUFORA Journal, dated Spring 1973 (Vol. 3, No. 10), delves into various aspects of ufology, featuring detailed case analyses, reader contributions, book reviews, and organizational news.

Article: A Landing in Miniature

This article, the second part of a case that occurred on December 19, 1972, in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs, examines an apparent landing case. The soil sample taken from a depression in the lawn showed no unusual properties compared to control samples, neither supporting nor refuting an extraordinary origin. The author evaluates the report, considering the possibility of a hoax but leaning towards a genuine experience due to the circumstances of its reporting. The report came to BUFORA's attention via a letter from a friend of the witness, Mr. Stanway, who had initially been reluctant to share his story due to ridicule from workmates. The article explores two potential explanations: reflection or refraction phenomena, and ball lightning. While reflection from a vehicle or greenhouse was considered, it struggled to explain the vivid, distinct image described. Ball lightning is presented as a more plausible explanation, with similarities in shape, appearance, size, and duration to Mr. Stanway's observation. However, the unsuitable weather conditions (clear skies) make this hypothesis less likely, as less than 1% of studied ball lightning cases occurred in such conditions. Despite the parallels, the article concludes that the burnt triangular depression in the lawn, with its suggestion of an artificial origin, makes the case unidentifiable, as it is improbable that ball lightning could produce such a distinct impression. The case remains unresolved.

Letters to the Editor

Several letters address topics raised in previous issues and invite further discussion.

• Cpl. P. A. D. Smith responds to the 'Little Green Men Again' section, suggesting that parachute canopies of 18 inches square might be similar to Army's 1.5-inch signal flare rockets, which have a parachute and emit a white glow.
• A. J. Brindley offers a perspective on the 'UFO Vision' case involving Eric and James, suggesting they may have experienced a dream or a similar hallucinatory event, possibly exacerbated by fear or suggestion, particularly concerning the humming noise reported by Mr. Ardern.
• Mr. Oliver expresses interest in the Journal and suggests including details on the construction and usefulness of UFO detectors.
• Derick Shelton shares his long-held belief in the extraterrestrial origin of UFOs, emphasizing the powerful electro-magnetic forces often associated with them and questioning the scientific community's resistance to this hypothesis. He criticizes the tendency to dismiss UFOs through psychological explanations and advocates for a more open-minded approach to the evidence.
• Anthony R. Pace, the author of the 'A Landing in Miniature' analysis, invites reader feedback on the ETH, asking if it fully explains the phenomenon, is discredited, or if a mixture of solutions is possible.

Book Reviews

Two book reviews are featured:

• "The Eternal Subject" by Brinsley le Poer Trench, reviewed by B.D.W., is the author's sixth book on UFOs, theorizing that Earth has been 'seeded' by 'Sky People'. The review highlights Trench's optimistic outlook and his suggestion that changing human behavior patterns might be linked to a new civilization. It also touches upon the influence of science fiction writers and the potential for interstellar travel, validated by Professor Wheeler's Superspace hypothesis. The review notes Trench's hopeful view of young people as the vanguard for the Sky People and emphasizes the importance of adaptation to change. The book was published by Souvenir Press in 1973 and cost £2.50.
• "The Legend of the Sons of God" by T. C. Lethbridge, reviewed by Colin Bord, is discussed as Lethbridge's final book, which turns his thoughts towards pre-history and UFO phenomena. Lethbridge, an archaeologist, used dowsing and pendulums in his research. The book explores theories linking beings from space to ancient stone circles and mankind's development, suggesting these circles might be bio-energy accumulators. It examines myths, mysteries, and possibilities such as extraterrestrial explorers, time machines, and beings from other dimensions. While acknowledging Lethbridge's archaeological expertise, the review notes his limited knowledge of UFO phenomena and his questioning of why entities would contact individuals in remote locations. The reviewer regrets that this was Lethbridge's last work, suggesting a more in-depth exploration of ufology could have followed. The book, published by Routledge & Kegan Paul in 1972, cost £1.75.

BUFORA Personalities: Dr. G. G. Doel

This section profiles Dr. Geoffrey Gilbert Doel, a prominent figure in BUFORA and its predecessor LUFORO since 1959. Dr. Doel has held various leadership roles, including Vice-Chairman, Chairman, Vice-President, and now President. The author, Norman Oliver, describes Dr. Doel as instrumental in holding BUFORA together, a colleague who effectively resolved disputes, and someone who has undertaken numerous tasks, from photographic analysis to acting Treasurer. Dr. Doel's background includes membership in the Royal College of Surgeons and Physicians, a diploma in Medical Radiology and Electrology, and wartime service organizing X-ray services. His interest in UFOs stems from a lifelong fascination with scientific matters affecting the human environment and the cosmos. He was alerted to the UFO phenomenon by the Kenneth Arnold sighting in 1947 and was involved in forming investigative bodies. Dr. Doel believes that UFOs represent intelligently operated craft that challenge current scientific understanding and that attempts at communication might be occurring through means beyond our current scientific scope. He advocates for continued research and for scientists to embrace the UFO phenomenon rather than avert their eyes.

Annual General Meeting, 1973

This notice announces the BUFORA Annual General Meeting to be held on Saturday, October 6th, 1973, at 6 p.m. at the Kensington Central Library. It outlines the nomination process for various officer positions and committee seats, with deadlines for nominations and resolutions. Only members in good standing are eligible to attend and vote.

Incident Report Request

An appeal is made for information regarding unusual air/ground events near Salisbury during the weekend of May 18-21, 1973, within a 20-mile radius. Interested individuals are asked to contact A. West.

Gemini Publications

Details are provided for 'Gemini 3' and 'Gemini 4', listing their contents and prices. It is noted that 'Gemini 1' and 'Gemini 2' are out of print. Orders can be placed with Norman Oliver.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the analysis of specific UFO sightings and their potential explanations, the exploration of extraterrestrial hypotheses, the intersection of archaeology and ufology, and the organizational activities of BUFORA. The editorial stance, as expressed in the letters and the profile of Dr. Doel, appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging detailed investigation, and a willingness to consider unconventional theories while maintaining a scientific approach. There is a clear emphasis on reader participation and the sharing of diverse viewpoints within the ufological community.

This document is a report on the Northern Regional Conference held in 1973, organized by BUFORA. The conference took place at The Albany Inn, a hotel in Ossett, near Wakefield, on Saturday, May 12th, 1973, and was attended by approximately 70 delegates. The main theme of the conference was 'UFO Milestones and Signposts for the Future.'

Conference Proceedings and Speakers

The proceedings were opened by BUFORA President, Dr. Geoffrey Doel, who welcomed delegates and outlined the conference theme. Dr. Doel presented four distinct possibilities regarding the nature of UFOs:

1. That saucers do not exist and witnesses have been deceived.
2. That UFOs are genuine, independently operated objects from beyond our solar system, technologically advanced.
3. That UFOs are manufactured on Earth by secret methods sponsored by major powers.
4. That UFOs are products of intelligences from other dimensions making temporary appearances.

Dr. Doel also suggested that UFOs might be exteriorised manifestations of the collective subconscious, triggered by the environment. He supported the extraterrestrial theory but noted that aliens might be able to influence witnesses' minds, making scientific investigation difficult.

Following Dr. Doel, Chairman Roger Stanway spoke about BUFORA's aims and the need to foster scientific interest, noting a growing interest despite the Condon Report. He then introduced Charles Bowen, editor of F.S.R. (Flying Saucer Review), who had recently appeared on television discussing the conference.

Charles Bowen began his presentation by discussing the evolution of UFO thought, starting from 1963 when UFOs were largely assumed to be extraterrestrial vehicles (E.T.Vs.). He mentioned the French wave of 1954, which reportedly involved occupants. Bowen noted that F.S.R. was founded in 1955, initially edited by Derek Dempster, and later by the Hon. Brinsley Le Poer Trench (1956-1959) and Waveney Girvan (from 1959). He touched upon the controversy surrounding George Adamski's photos and claims, which were later shown to be false by the moon voyages.

Bowen further elaborated on the challenges in ufology, including criticism of F.S.R. for relying on press reports, though he argued these could be valuable historical material. He drew parallels between directives for astronauts landing on populated planets (land at night, in sparsely populated areas) and the way UFOs are often reported. He advised caution regarding the theories of authors like Andrew Tomas, Erich von Daniken, and Peter Kolosimo.

Dr. Hynek, along with Maxwell Cade and Dennis Bardens, conducted an experiment where a subject was placed in a trance and told to expect a sighting. The subject reported seeing something and drawing attention to it, leading to a discussion on how illusions could be created and potentially influence witnesses or contactees.

The conference also touched upon palaeolithic symbols in French caves that resemble modern UFOs, linking them to Aime Michel's 'BAVIC LINE.'

Michael Davies' article on UFOs in the POLICE REVIEW was mentioned.

Tony Pace presented on Newchapel Observatory, highlighting its potential as BUFORA's Research Headquarters due to its location and low running costs. He mentioned that £200 had been donated to the Foundation Fund for equipment and that BUFORA had files on 'curtains' in the sky, likely auroral displays. Pace also discussed the possibility of hiring a part-time research assistant and the value of sighting report cards and a standard UFO investigation kit.

Alan Sharp, a university lecturer in geology, presented a skeptical view on some cultish aspects of ufology, dismissing theories of parallel universes and John Keel's ideas. He used fossils to illustrate geological evolution and argued against evidence for technological civilizations in prehistoric times. Sharp suggested Dr. Hynek might have overlooked Venus as an explanation for a sighting and proposed that the Loch Roven Dam case might involve a balloon carrying scientific instruments.

Dr. Doel presented an analysis of UFO photos, emphasizing the importance of examining the story behind a photo to establish authenticity. He noted that 'UFO' phenomena in camera film could be caused by developing fluid droplets, overheating, manufacturing imperfections, or old film defects. He also warned about reflections of lights through windows and showed slides of 'spindle-shaped' lens flares mistaken for UFOs.

Trevor Whitaker reported on a recent incident on Easter Saturday in Low Row, Yorkshire, where a witness saw a bright red light and heard a noise. Burnt areas were found, and soil samples were being analyzed. It was noted that Low Row is near Army ranges.

Yorkshire Branch Event

The Yorkshire Branch held a private dinner party attended by 24 people, including BUFORA officials and conference speakers. This event marked 10 years of the Halifax Branch's existence and served as an opportunity for ufological discussion and social interaction.

Books for Sale

A list of books on UFOs and related topics was provided for sale, including titles by Dr. Allen Hynek, Brinsley Le Poer Trench, Robert Loftin, Erich von Daniken, Paul Thomas, Arthur Shuttlewood, Larry Kettlekamp, F. W. Holiday, Elizabeth Campbell, Elwood Baumann, Sheila Ostrander, Charles Fort, Sprague & Catherine de Camp, Leonard Cottrell, and Gerald Hawkins. Prices and postage details were included.

Announcements

An announcement informed BUFORA members who are also GEMINI subscribers that GEMINI would cease publication, with outstanding subscriptions transferred to 'UFO REPORT,' an upcoming journal.

Contact Information and Branches

Contact details for advertisements, correspondence, subscriptions, editorial, librarian, UFO report/press cuttings, and research were provided. Information for the Halifax Branch, Northern Ireland Branch, and Staffordshire Branch of BUFORA was also listed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects BUFORA's ongoing efforts to promote serious ufological research, encouraging scientific interest and critical analysis of evidence. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between genuine sightings, misidentifications, hoaxes, and the psychological aspects of witness testimony. The magazine presents a range of theories but advises caution regarding sensational claims. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation while maintaining a skeptical approach to unsubstantiated claims, as evidenced by the discussion of Alex Birch's fake photo and the geological perspective offered by Alan Sharp.