BUFORA Journal - Volume 03 No 12 - Autumn 1973

Magazine Overview

This is the Autumn 1973 issue, Volume 3, Number 12, of The BUFORA Journal, published by The British UFO Research Association. The cover features a prominent red illustration of the Earth with a UFO hovering above it, alongside the magazine's title.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Norman Oliver, addresses the perception that media coverage of UFOs is biased against serious research associations. Oliver argues that while media producers seek a 'balanced programme' which may include varied and sometimes sensationalist accounts, it is not necessarily a deliberate attempt to denigrate serious UFO research. He also contends that the perceived higher casualty rate among ufologists is likely a misinterpretation of statistics, similar to any other research group. Oliver urges members to cease complaining about 'anti-us' treatment and instead focus on demonstrating their credibility to authorities and the media, which he believes will lead to better coverage.

Key Articles and Reports

Let's Look Around...

This feature presents two reports from Zambia, both from Gregory Vlahakis:

• The Zambesi Valley Incident (July 6, 1971): A witness returning home reported seeing a very bright light coming from a bend in the road. The object, described as shaped like the planet Saturn with rings and emitting a high-pitched sound, hovered above a hilltop, tilted, brightened, and then vanished with an explosion. The witness found himself disoriented after the event.
• Above the Cinema (July 22, 1967): A witness at a drive-in cinema in Lusaka reported a bright light obscuring the screen. The object, described as an overturned soup plate with a cup on top, had a bright light on its underside and emitted a sound like a swarm of bees. It was approximately 30 feet in diameter and 10 feet in height, with port-holes emitting a yellowish light. The object performed 'balancing acts' before disappearing.

Experiences of Unidentified Aerial Phenomena in Libya

This section presents two accounts from an Air Traffic Control Officer:

1. Tripoli Airport Incident (1968): While on duty, the ATC officer and other units (Tripoli Radar, Wheelus Tower, Wheelus GCA) detected a radar target approaching from the west at great speed. Despite checks, no known aircraft were in the vicinity. The target disappeared in an easterly direction. Wheelus Tower reported the object made no noise as it crossed the airfield. The officer notes that this occurred at least five years prior and some details may be inaccurate, but the basic facts of a tracked target on two radars and visual confirmation remain.
2. Tripoli Airport Incident (September 7 or 14, 1969): During a period of restricted traffic following political upheaval, the ATC officer witnessed a bright orange light appear at low altitude to the north-east of the airport just as an aircraft took off. The light disappeared after about twenty seconds. The pilots of the aircraft reported seeing an orange lighted object flying towards them at great speed, at low level, from a NE direction, and took evasive action. The incident occurred during a strict curfew, and no explanation was found by Libyan military.

Roadside Visitors (Alberta, Canada)

This report, adapted from Canadian UFO Report, details an incident involving Miss Esther Clappison near Rosedale, Alberta, on June 7, 1971. She observed a rectangular-lighted object with an opaque light on the ground near a road intersection. Three human-like figures, less than five feet tall, were seen; two inside the craft and one outside collecting what appeared to be rock samples. The figures wore baggy, olive-green suits. The witness was deterred from getting closer by her dog. When she returned with her brother, the object and figures were gone.

An illustration depicts the craft, the figures, and the surrounding cliffs, along with a diagram of the 'body structure detail' of the occupants, noting keyhole-like eyes, narrow wrists, padded pointed 'mitts', and a thin build.

Other Sections

• Officers: A list of honorary and national executive committee members, along with other officers like the Librarian and Publicity Secretary.
• Aims: The association's objectives are to promote unbiased scientific investigation, collect and disseminate UFO data, and co-ordinate research globally.
• Membership: Details the annual subscription fees and the application process.
• Journal: Information on the journal's publication frequency and contact details for the editor.
• Contents: A table of contents listing articles such as 'Editorial', 'Let's Look Around', 'Objectively', 'Round & About', 'Letters to the Editor', 'UFO Technicalities', 'Book Review', 'British Reports', 'Take Your Pick', and 'BUFORA Personalities. No. 2'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the presentation and analysis of UFO sightings and related phenomena. The editorial stance, as expressed by Norman Oliver, is one of advocating for serious, scientific research and a more professional approach to engaging with the media and authorities, rather than succumbing to perceptions of persecution or bias. The journal aims to be a platform for evidence-based reporting and discussion within the ufology community.

This issue of the BUFORA Newsletter, identified as issue number 15, delves into various UFO phenomena, scientific investigations, and speculative theories. It includes reports on sightings, physical evidence, and discussions on the origin of life and extraterrestrial intelligence.

Drumheller Sighting

The newsletter begins with an account of a UFO sighting near Drumheller, Canada. Following the sighting, a scorched imprint, twenty feet long and a narrow rectangular shape, was discovered on roadside weeds. Miss Clappison estimated the craft to be eight feet high and five feet wide, with three occupants wearing close-fitting olive or drab green uniforms and snugly shaped headgear. Their faces were covered by fabric, and they wore thin, flexible wrists with a long, slender thumb, resembling 'pointed mittens.' The area around Drumheller is noted for its fossil discoveries, suggesting the UFO visitors might have been interested in the region's scientific value.

Namsen Fiord Radioactive Prints

Two reports detail mysterious radio-active prints found in Namsen Fiord, Norway. The first, from Verdans Gang on June 29th, 1972, describes large imprints, several metres in diameter, found on an uninhabited island. These prints, some triangular and some round, were up to 30cm deep and could not have come from the sea or land. Ola Dahl, a summer-house owner, discovered them and noted that the area had experienced television interference and a transformer failure shortly before. The second report, from Verdans Gang on July 6th, 1972, confirms that these giant prints are radio-active, with soil samples from the prints themselves showing radiation, while samples from other areas did not. Experts from N.T.H. (Norwegian Technical High School) confirmed the presence of strange radioactive particles, though the readings were weak.

A subsequent report from Verdans Gang on August 17th, 1972, indicates that the mysterious radio-active prints in Namsen Fiord are becoming more interesting, with marks found in cliffs that could be the result of an explosion. Chunks of clay burnt under high temperature were sent for analysis. Kolbjorn Steen Odegard, chairman of the Norwegian UFO-centre, suggested the weakness of the radiation was due to the late readings and noted it was the first time radioactivity had been detected on such prints in Norway. Ufologists connected these prints to an observation of a lighted object falling into the fiord in 1959, with witnesses hearing a loud noise. It is speculated that the prints could have originated from a UFO investigating the earlier incident.

Richard Farrow provided further details in a letter dated August 7th, 1973, from the Danish Magazine UFO-nyt. He confirmed that the television cut-out occurred on Friday, June 9th, 1972, and Ola Dahl found the prints on Sunday, June 11th. Similar prints were also found on beaches at Lokkaren and Sundsoya. NUFOC (Norwegian UFO Centre) later set up cameras to analyze the radioactivity, but it had become too weak to read, possibly due to a short half-life. Ola Dahl found about nine prints close together within a 25-meter radius, noting their smooth base and deep vertical sides.

Objective UFO Investigation Methods

An article titled "OBJECTIVELY" by V. E. Rendall from the Chemical Engineering Dept., University of Adelaide, outlines recommended procedures for investigating alleged UFO landings. It emphasizes the importance of collecting sample material and data for thorough investigation. Key points for investigators include documenting the date, time, day of the week, weather conditions, making maps, using compasses for magnetic anomalies, diplomatically questioning witnesses with a tape-recorder, visiting the actual site, photographing it from multiple angles and lighting conditions, using metal detectors, and employing atomic radiation detection (Geiger Counter) and magnetic surveys. Chemical analysis of gases, liquids, and soils is also recommended, with samples to be placed in airtight containers.

Association News and Notes

Betty Wood's "Association News" section addresses a reader's query about a comet collision prediction, clarifying the source was scientific, not from Jeanne Dixon. She also mentions great comets of the past, such as the Great Comet of 1811 and 1843, and warns members not to mistake the upcoming Great Comet Kohoutek for a UFO.

Another note mentions the popularity of Larry Kettlekamp's book on UFOs among British schoolchildren, with some demanding comprehensive information. An enthusiast is quoted as being "convinced they are a grave threat to earth."

A New Scientist article by Drs. Simon Mitton and Roger Lewin is referenced, discussing a hypothesis by molecular biologists Francis Crick and Leslie Orgel that an intelligent civilization seeded early Earth with primitive life forms. The article explores the possibility of being descendants of extraterrestrial life and raises questions about the originators' continued interest and the potential for contact.

John Ball's "galactic zoo" theory is presented, suggesting that our solar system might be a "wilderness" area for advanced civilizations, making contact unlikely.

Forthcoming Meetings

Several upcoming meetings are listed for the Kensington Central Library and Staffordshire Branch of BUFORA, featuring lectures on topics such as "THE EVERLASTING SUBJECT," "TO CONTACT A SPACEMAN," "UFO PHENOMENA," and "GUIDE LINES IN THE SEARCH TO SOLVE THE UFO MYSTERY."

Vice-Chairman's Notes and Ministry of Defence

Lionel Beer, Vice-Chairman, notes a high level of interest in UFOs, with BUFORA receiving over 100 enquiries in August. He mentions supplying information for an article in MISS LONDON WEEKLY, which quoted him stating that "The Government is only running a publicity exercise-to explain it all away." He also questions the intent of a letter bomb received.

Barium Cloud Experiment

An earlier report on a "Barium Cloud Experiment" is referenced, noting that launchings from South Uist on May 15th and 16th, 1973, occurred under poor sky conditions. The first launching produced a pale yellow disc of magnitude minus 8, while the second was disappointing.

UFOLOGY in Directories

Lionel Beer reports success in getting "Ufology" included as a heading in BRITISH RATE AND DATA and Benn's NEWSPAPER PRESS DIRECTORY, urging editors of dictionaries and encyclopedias to follow suit.

Notes and Quotes

Ron Markwick of Ilford is mentioned as having "completely solved" the UFO mystery, attributing it to "radiation-affected minds." He admitted to a sighting of a cigar-shaped UFO, which he described as a figment of his imagination.

Moon Bugs

A BUFORA member, Mr. Adams, reported that an astronaut during the Apollo Moon landing TV broadcast mentioned seeing "little bugs running around" on a boulder, a detail that was edited out of subsequent footage.

Selective Skywatch

A suggestion is made to conduct regular sky-watches at selected "Mysterious Britain" type sites like Stonehenge, Avebury, and Glastonbury Tor.

Avebury Apparition

A personal account describes seeing a figure dressed in a top hat and cape with slate-grey skin, walking robot-like, near the stones of Avebury.

As Others See Us

Brian Grist, writing in the Warminster News, points out that people who sit on hilltops all night watching for UFOs are often perceived as eccentric or even Devil-worshippers by villagers.

Chair of the Gods?

This section discusses UFO sightings in South Australia near a hill known as "The Camel's Hump," where a giant "chair" made of rock slabs has been found, along with two similar "chairs" on nearby hilltops.

Beyond This Horizon Festival

Details are provided for "A Festival of Science Fiction and Space Exploration" at the Sunderland Arts Centre, including lectures and symposia on topics such as "LANDSCAPES IN SPACE," "H. G. WELLS SYMPOSIUM," "SCIENCE FICTION FILMS," "THE MOON," "THE INTERIOR STRUCTURE OF PLANETS," "MAN'S EXPANDING IDEAS OF SPACE," "BLACK HOLES," "U.F.O.s," "COMPUTER SYMPOSIUM," and "ARE WE ALONE?"

"Many Mansions"

A quote from Dr. Lewis W. Beck suggests the existence of many abodes of intelligent life in the Universe, inhabited by organisms with far higher intelligence than humans.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed investigation of UFO sightings and physical evidence, the scientific analysis of potential UFO traces (like radioactivity), and speculative theories about the origin of life and extraterrestrial intelligence. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging detailed reporting, scientific investigation, and the exploration of various hypotheses, while also acknowledging the skepticism and public perception surrounding UFO research. The inclusion of upcoming meetings and research resources indicates a commitment to fostering a community of UFO enthusiasts and researchers.

This issue of "Flying Saucer Review" (Vol. 19, No. 6, 1973) presents a collection of letters from readers, a detailed report of a UFO sighting, a review of a technical UFO theory, and a book review. The magazine, published by the Flying Saucer Service, focuses on UFO phenomena and related research.

Letters To The Editor

The issue opens with "Letters To The Editor," featuring correspondence from readers Norman Oliver and an anonymous contributor, along with a response from the editor (ED.). The editor notes that while he normally discards anonymous letters, these two were of high standard and made valid points. He emphasizes the need for correspondents to supply their names and addresses, which will not be published if requested. The anonymous letter suggests that the approach to UFO research should be open-minded, as knowing what is being researched would negate the need for research itself. Norman Oliver, identifying as a "confessed Romantic" rather than a scientist, offers two speculative possibilities for UFO phenomena: the "Historical approach," suggesting visits from the future, and "self-projections" due to the unknown power of the human mind. He humbly contributes these ideas as "tiny seeds" for the association.

A letter from a reader identifying as "ANON." discusses their experiences and offers two speculative ideas. The first is the "Historical approach," proposing that UFOs might be visitors from the future, given that time might be a single continuum. The second is that visitations could be "self-projections," leveraging the largely unknown power of the human mind. This contributor concludes by asking if the association has other "gardeners" willing to contribute.

Another reader, who is not a member but related to one, expresses a preference for non-publication but shares their perspective. They recount moving from a phase of seeking "ordinary" explanations for UFOs to one of accepting a mixture of solutions, including Von Daniken's theories and para-psychological research. They express surprise that BUFORA classified the Ardern case as "extraordinary," believing BUFORA should be familiar with such occurrences. They suggest that BUFORA might be too focused on "nuts and bolts" and that para-psychological reports are channeled elsewhere. The writer proposes the establishment of a recognized, though unadvertised, center within BUFORA to provide reassurance and file accounts for those experiencing UFO phenomena, allowing scientific experts to specialize. They also suggest replacing the term "UFO" with something less prone to ridicule, perhaps "extra-terrestrial."

Colin Randall suggests including a crossword or quiz in future journals to cover ufological aspects and provide a broader background for ufologists. The editor acknowledges having a crossword ready but wants to build a series before publishing.

Miss Lorraine McDonald draws a comparison between markings on Windmill Hill (known as Causewayed Camp) and alleged UFO ground marks at Wimborne, Dorset, noting a similarity in shape and concentric lines, though the Windmill Hill marks are significantly larger.

British Reports

This section features "BRITISH REPORTS," highlighting the magazine's policy of publishing investigated UFO reports. The current issue presents a report from Bontddu and Barmouth, Merioneth, N. Wales, dated June 30th, 1973. Witnesses Reyna Rushton and Timothy Tunnicliffe observed six whitish-yellow lights travelling from N.W. to S.E. above a river estuary towards the Cader Idris range. The lights, appearing singly at roughly five-minute intervals (except for two closer together), were first magnitude, constant in brightness, and moved at a slow, constant speed in a straight line. Height estimation was difficult due to the clear sky.

The report also notes that National Investigations Co-ordinator Richard Colbourne is no longer in his position, and new reports should be sent to regional co-ordinators.

UFO TECHNICALITIES - Review by Mark Stenhoff

This section reviews a talk given by Professor Bryan Winder, a Vice-President of BUFORA, on his theory explaining UFO phenomena as advanced technology. His theory, published in "Design for a Flying Saucer," is based on simple physical phenomena like ionisation and electromagnetic induction, and the plasma state of matter. Winder suggests a "hovercraft" design principle where plasma moves parallel to a magnetic field. He discusses "side-effects" such as glowing plasma in various colours, the production of ozone, and automobile inhibition due to ionized air. Winder also considers the effect of magnetic fields on human beings, citing cases of paralysis and potential applications in healing.

The review includes "Specifications of Winder 'saucer'" detailing hypothetical diameter (100ft), current requirements (250-500 MA), coil mass (250 tons), magnetic flux density (10T), effective range (250ft), acceleration (300 ms²), and power requirement (1200MW), suggesting a thermo-nuclear source. A snag identified is the interaction of the craft's magnetic field with Earth's, causing tilting, and a "skipping motion" when pulsed.

Mr. David Viewing raised objections, noting that such a craft would be detectable by magnetic observatories and that Winder's assumptions might be outdated. However, Viewing and his associates have used Winder's ideas for their environmental disruption detection station near Warminster. The review concludes by thanking Winder for his lecture and expressing hope for his further comments.

HOAX AT WARMINSTER

A brief report addresses a "hoax perpetrated at Warminster on the night of 25/26 August 1973." BUFORA's committee strongly deprecates these activities, stating they do not assist the study of unusual phenomena and that the identity of some involved persons is known.

BOOK REVIEW

"UFO's-A SCIENTIFIC DEBATE," edited by Carl Sagan and Thornton Page, is reviewed by Mark Stenhoff. The book compiles proceedings from an AAAS Symposium on UFOs held in December 1969, featuring contributions from fifteen scientists with diverse conclusions, illustrating the pendulum swing between belief and skepticism. The review highlights that scientists with equal qualifications can reach different conclusions, suggesting belief in UFOs is a personal matter, akin to religion. It poses the question of whether a "Scientific Study of GOD" could be established, with potentially similar inconclusive results for believers. The reviewer prompts readers to consider whose conclusions to accept: the moderates, the militantly negative, or the militant believers.

BOOKS FOR SALE

A list of UFO-related books is provided for sale, including "UFOs-A Scientific Debate," "Scientific Study of UFOs" by Edward Condon, "The UFO Experience" by Allen Hynek, and works by Erich von Daniken and John Keel. Prices and postage information are included, with a contact address for Lionel Beer in London.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the diverse explanations for UFO phenomena, ranging from scientific and technological theories to psychological and speculative approaches. There is an emphasis on the importance of open-mindedness in research, the need for specialized study within the field, and the presentation of empirical reports alongside theoretical discussions. The editorial stance, as indicated by the "Letters To The Editor" section and the inclusion of "British Reports," is to encourage reader participation, publish investigated sightings, and critically examine various theories. The magazine also appears to be a platform for disseminating information about UFO-related literature and events, such as lectures and book sales. The deprecation of the Warminster hoax suggests a commitment to serious, methodical study over sensationalism or deliberate misinformation.

This issue, titled 'BUFORA Personalities No. 2', focuses on prominent members of the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA) and explores various facets of UFO phenomena. While the magazine is based in London, it highlights members from across the country, emphasizing that BUFORA's reach extends beyond the capital.

BUFORA Personalities: Doreen and Trevor Whitaker

The issue prominently features Doreen and Trevor Whitaker, a husband and wife team from the Yorkshire (formerly Halifax) branch of BUFORA. Doreen, a Qualified State Registered Nurse, and Trevor, an Ophthalmic Optician with a distinguished academic and professional career, share a common interest in UFO research. Their involvement began in 1962 when Doreen responded to an advertisement, leading to the formation of the Halifax branch of LUFORO, which later transferred to BUFORA. Trevor succeeded Malcolm Bull as secretary in 1965 and has been instrumental in organizing Northern Regional BUFORA Conferences. Trevor has made television and radio appearances and has been featured in local newspapers. He notes that he and Doreen differ slightly on the origins of the UFO phenomenon, with Trevor being more skeptical of contactee claims.

Psychic Phenomena and UFOs

Section 7 discusses 'Psychic Phenomena', suggesting that many UFO sightings, particularly those of 'small, coloured lights' and 'balls in the sky', may be related to psychic phenomena or 'elementals'. These are proposed to be closely associated with 'ball-lightning', which is described as an 'elementary force' behaving in an intelligently-controlled manner.

Hoaxes in UFO Reports

Sections 8 and 9 address 'Hoaxes-Deliberate' and 'Hoaxes-Induced'. It is acknowledged that many saucer reports and photographs are susceptible to hoax classification. The motivation for deliberate hoaxes can be to 'test out' the investigator, sometimes leading to a point where perpetrators cannot admit to the hoax. Photographs are considered credible only when supported by multiple witnesses. Induced hoaxes are more complex, questioning whether they are caused by space or other intelligences, though 'man-made' hoaxes are also considered. The possibility of 'Co-Existent Intelligences' is also mentioned.

Image Projections

Section 9 also covers 'Image Projections', distinguishing between external and internal types. External projections are hypothesized as a means to create illusions, citing Arthur C. Clarke's book 'CHILDHOOD'S END' where a saucer image was projected over world capitals. Internal projections occur when individuals see saucers that are not physically present, potentially linked to 'Co-Existent Intelligences'.

Living Entities and Interstellar Travel

Section 10, 'Living Entities Capable of Interstellar Travel', explores the idea of Earth as a living entity and extends this to the possibility of visible astral bodies of extra-terrestrial entities. This is linked to 'out-of-the-body' experiences and astral travel.

"We Are Property"

Section 11, '"We Are Property"', presents a thought-provoking argument questioning why UFOs have been observed for so long without clear identification of their origin. It posits that humanity and Earth's life-forms might be experiments or even 'entertainments' manipulated by external controllers, referencing 'THE HEAVEN MAKERS'.

Norman Oliver's Concluding Thoughts

Norman Oliver, the author of these sections, emphasizes that the preceding discussion is not a comprehensive coverage but aims to stimulate thought. He reiterates that his credibility ratings are personal estimations. He also expresses his opinion that a significant portion of unexplained reports may not be due to extra-terrestrial activity, and that the lack of progress in solving the UFO problem might stem from a negative attitude. He highlights BUFORA's efforts to improve its public image to facilitate better investigation of sightings.

1950 World UFO Wave Study

An appeal is made for information regarding the worldwide 1950 UFO wave. An Italian ufologist is compiling a scientific study using an electronic computer and requires UFO cases, cuttings, press news, unpublished sightings, UFO Society files, and parts of UFO bulletins from that period. Contributors' names will be specified, and detailed summaries are also accepted. Contact information for Antonio Giudici in Rome, Italy, is provided.

Advertising and Contacts

The issue includes advertisements for 'New Occult' magazine, offering details on its content and pricing. It also lists advertising rates for BUFORA's publication and provides contact information for various roles within BUFORA, including the Vice-Chairman, Honorary Secretary, subscriptions, editorial, librarian, and research. Contact details for BUFORA branches in Yorkshire, Northern Ireland, and Staffordshire are also included.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the multifaceted nature of UFO phenomena, exploring potential explanations beyond simple extra-terrestrial visitation. These include psychic connections, the role of hoaxes (both deliberate and induced), and the concept of image projections. The issue also touches upon speculative ideas about 'living entities' and the possibility of humanity being controlled or experimented upon. The editorial stance, as expressed by Norman Oliver, leans towards a complex phenomenon that is not solely attributable to extraterrestrial activity, advocating for a less negative approach to its study and emphasizing the importance of timely and accurate reporting. The publication also serves as a platform for BUFORA to connect with its members and gather information for research purposes, as evidenced by the call for data on the 1950 UFO wave.