BUFORA Journal - Volume 04 No 04 - Autumn 1974

Magazine Overview

Title: BUFORA JOURNAL
Issue: Volume 4 No. 4
Date: Autumn 1974
Publisher: The British U.F.O. Research Association

This issue of the BUFORA JOURNAL, published in Autumn 1974, focuses on advancing UFO research methodologies and the organizational development of the association. It features technical articles on tracking UFOs, discussions on communication systems for research teams, and important messages regarding BUFORA's future structure and operations.

Editorial

Norman Oliver, the editor, addresses concerns from members in the North of England regarding perceived disparities in facilities compared to the South. He acknowledges these criticisms and calls for suggestions from members on how to improve communications and facilities nationwide. Oliver emphasizes that BUFORA aims to be a national association and not solely identified with London or the South. He hopes that achieving Charity status will enable more resources to be channeled into making all members feel part of an active association, while reminding readers that the association relies on voluntary efforts.

London Office

The journal announces the Committee's long-standing wish to establish a London office. The immediate challenge is finding suitable premises, ideally a small office that can serve as a postal address, potentially with a telephone. The office would be used for storing files and archives. While a prestige address is not required, proximity to public transport is advantageous. The article suggests possibilities such as shared office space or a room in a private house, referencing how the predecessor organization, the London U.F.O. Research Organisation, operated. Interested individuals are encouraged to contact the Honorary Secretary, Miss Betty Wood, or Vice-Chairman Lionel Beer.

Tracking UFOs by Rangefinder

This article, written by Peter A. Thurgood, details a method for tracking UFOs using modified photographic tripods and binoculars, building upon a previous description. The core of the system involves using two tracking tripods stationed a distance apart to form a baseline, enabling triangulation to determine an object's range, height, and size through elevation and bearing angles. The article explains the process of calculating actual linear velocity by measuring angular velocity and the importance of taking measurements when the object's trajectory is perpendicular to the line of sight. It also discusses the potential for plotting the object's course on maps and automatically recording data. The author highlights that while a single tripod is insufficient for range estimation, two synchronized stations can provide accurate data.

Communication Systems

Following the discussion on tracking, the article addresses the critical need for efficient communication between two tracking stations, which could be one or two miles apart. Several communication methods are evaluated:

1. Radio contact with 'walkie-talkies': Deemed illegal in the UK without approved equipment and a license.
2. Amateur radio equipment: Considered a possibility, but the chances of having licensed 'hams' with suitable portable equipment together are remote, and the high rate of information exchange might contravene regulations.
3. Morse code by light signals: Ruled out due to the slow rate of information exchange and the requirement for direct line-of-sight, which is not always possible.
4. Modulated light transmissions: Considered impractical due to severely limited frequency response and range, with infra-red devices having additional lining-up issues.
5. Laser beam communications: Dismissed as extremely complex, expensive, and requiring overly precise alignment procedures.

The 'Field-Fence' System

As an alternative, the article introduces the 'Field-Fence' system, designed and tested by the author. This system is similar to commercial radio telephones but uses the audio spectrum to transmit speech along landlines. Its key advantage is that it does not require carrying extensive cable. Instead, it transmits through a single wire fence, using the earth as a return conductor via metal earth spikes. This system works best with wooden-post fences, as metal posts can short the signal. The author reports successfully connecting over 1.5 miles of fencing in the Warminster area. The 'Field-Fence' system utilizes integrated circuit output stages for low transmitting impedance and high-sensitivity receiving inputs, theoretically allowing for ranges of hundreds of miles. However, factors like wet grass and fence posts reduce the practical range to an estimated 20-30 miles under favorable conditions, which is still sufficient for most applications.

Operation and Accuracy

The operation of the tracking system is described as simple: once an object is located, both stations lock onto it, record data (elevation, bearing, angular velocity, etc.) onto a cassette tape, and then cease tracking. The recorded data is later transferred to a map to determine the flight path, linear velocity, height, and physical size. For setting up, tripods must be aligned using a compass or, preferably, the pole star for accuracy. The system has been tested using ordnance survey markers, yielding an approximate 1° error on stationary objects. With a 1-2 mile baseline, a range accuracy of ±20% is achievable. The article explains how the range capability varies with the object's bearing relative to the baseline, being maximum when the object is due north or south and diminishing to zero when due west or east. This 'parallel condition' of rangefinder vectors can lead to infinite positional error. To counteract this, bearing measurements should be taken when the object is perpendicular to the baseline. Differential elevation can be used to calculate range for objects due west or east of a west-east baseline.

Summary of 'Tracking UFOs by Rangefinder'

Peter A. Thurgood summarizes that the compound methods for obtaining range mean objects will eventually pass through a measurable 'window.' He notes that the origin of UFOs remains unknown, but instrumentation is crucial for field research, especially for gleaning reliable data from sightings. The author believes the 'Field-Fence' tracking system could significantly contribute to data collection if skywatch groups adopt it, advancing ufological field research.

Appeal to London Members: Accommodation Needed

BUFORA is urgently seeking a room in London to house its library of approximately 200 books and its magazine and file archives, which are currently stored in two filing cabinets. The Association is looking for members in the London postal area who might have a spare room or part of a room available for storage. While taking on the role of librarian would be an advantage, it is not essential. The Association offers to reimburse expenses or pay a small rent, in keeping with its budget and voluntary status. Members with offers or suggestions are asked to contact Miss Betty Wood or Lionel Beer.

An Important Message from Your Chairman

The Chairman addresses the recent period of comparatively low UFO activity in Great Britain, questioning if it is a 'calm before the storm.' BUFORA, as Britain's major UFO Research Association, is committed to improving its capability for efficient and business-like investigation of UFO reports nationwide. The current absence of full-time or part-time staff is seen as a severe restriction on operations and credibility with the media and scientific community. To address this over the next two years, BUFORA plans to:

1. Establish a proper constitutional foundation: This is deemed the most important step to enable the Association to expand beneficially. The Committee has resolved to register BUFORA as a Charitable organisation to improve its status and gain taxation advantages.
2. Incorporate as a company limited by guarantee: This is considered sensible before registering as a Charity. The advantages include limiting each member's liability to £1 in the event of a successful court claim, which is necessary as BUFORA expands. It also allows BUFORA to adopt a standard constitution from the Companies Acts of 1948 and 1967, which is comprehensive and proven.

The new constitution, to be called the Memorandum and Articles of Association of BUFORA, will incorporate much of the existing constitution, including the aims of the Association. Significant changes are being made to comply with the Companies Acts and the Charities Act 1960. Key changes include:

• Empowerment of the Committee (Council of Management): While the constitution cannot be changed without membership consent, the Committee will be empowered to make, amend, or cancel Bye-laws and regulations governing the Association's operations, including financing, entrance fees, and subscriptions.
• Council Member Rotation: Council members will retire in rotation, with one-third retiring annually. The maximum term for a Council member will be three years, though re-election is possible. This system is designed to ensure continuity in the running of the Association, given its voluntary nature.

The Chairman reminds members that all Committee members serve voluntarily in their spare time. The new Constitution will prevent Council members from receiving any payment or profit from BUFORA, apart from reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses, which are often not claimed in full.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes the importance of scientific methodology and instrumentation in UFO research. The editorial stance is one of proactive improvement and adaptation, seeking to enhance BUFORA's national reach and operational efficiency. The journal highlights the need for better communication infrastructure and organizational stability to support its research goals. There is a clear commitment to professionalism, evidenced by the plans for constitutional reform and the pursuit of charitable status. The editor encourages member participation and suggestions, underscoring the voluntary nature of the association's work and its dedication to unbiased investigation.

This issue of the BUFORA Newsletter, dated September 5th, 1974, opens with a message from Chairman Roger H. Stanway addressing the organization's financial challenges due to inflation. He expresses hope for continued member support and outlines the benefits of BUFORA's incorporation and registration as a charity.

Who is Jumping to Conclusions?

Authored by C. F. Lockwood, this article critiques the tendency of some scientists to accuse ufologists of jumping to conclusions while simultaneously making broad generalizations themselves. Lockwood, with a background in statistics, emphasizes the dangers of generalizing from small samples, using the example of calculating the number of civilizations in the universe. He argues that traditional scientists are also prone to this error, citing the 'Dolphin Formula' (N = 1 L) as an example of speculative generalization. Lockwood advocates for a more rigorous approach, distinguishing between deductive and inductive reasoning, and suggests that while traditional science has achieved much, it is also subject to revision. He encourages students of the UFO phenomenon to pursue both traditional and unconventional lines of inquiry, emphasizing the importance of prediction as a key to scientific progress. He also touches upon the potential role of parapsychology in measuring UFO data, though stressing the need for measurement rather than mere description. The article concludes by criticizing the misuse of probability data, using an Australian scientist's argument against flying saucers as an example of flawed reasoning based on assumptions about interstellar travel.

Notes and References

Several notes provide context and references for the article. Note 1 mentions a disc-shaped object extinguishing a fire in Morocco in June 1968. Note 2 challenges the limited range of values for the 'L' factor (lifetime of civilizations) used in calculations, suggesting more evidence is needed. Note 3 points to 'Interstellar Research' as a source, and Note 4 references an article in 'New Scientist' about potentially unknown nearby stars.

Vice-Chairman's Column: Sky Phenomenon in the Reign of George IV

Lionel Beer contributes a column featuring an item from an 1828 diary. The diary entry describes a luminous appearance in the heavens, a stream of light resembling a broad bow, observed on the night of September 30th, 1828. The author notes it was brighter at times and produced a visible trail towards the south, with some flashes of aurora borealis also observed.

Meeting Programmes and Sources of Information

This section addresses administrative issues regarding the mailing of London lecture programme cards and suggests 'WHAT'S ON IN LONDON' and 'TIME OUT' as useful guides for visitors. It also acknowledges the past support of the 'EVENING STANDARD' and 'EVENING NEWS' in listing BUFORA meetings.

Inflation

The newsletter highlights significant price increases in UFO-related publications, noting that 'FLYING SAUCER REVIEW' has raised its prices, and the 'Aetherius Society' has drastically increased the price of a booklet from 15p to 70p, representing an over 450% increase. BUFORA's admission fee of 35p (including coffee and biscuits) is contrasted favorably with the Aetherius Society's 75p lecture admission for non-members.

Merseyside News

Michael Dean of The Wirral UFO Society reports on a successful Northern UFO conference attended by over 100 people. He mentions interviews on Radio Merseyside and appearances on BBC TV's 'Look North,' noting that BUFORA was mentioned during these publicity events. Richard Vinten, a BUFORA investigator, also participated in a Radio London phone-in.

Help Needed!

BUFORA is seeking volunteers to help sort and paste press clippings into a book for posterity. Interested individuals are asked to telephone 01-723 0305.

From Here and There

This section presents UFO-related items from press cuttings and member contributions. Harold Chibbett shares a report about a UFO sighting in Nova Scotia on August 6th, 1971. Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Pobiner, American tourists, reported seeing a brilliant, stationary light that they initially mistook for a sunset. The object then moved away at tremendous speed. Mr. Pobiner took two photographs, one of which is shown. The object was described as not being a normal aircraft, Venus, or a star. The report notes that the paint on a nearby military vessel appeared blistered or peeled after the object passed, though an explanation involving a 'newly tested rocket' was given.

Bedford Beings

This report details an encounter by Mr. Ken Price and a friend (referred to as Mr. Jones) in February 1974. Mr. Jones reported being told to go to a power station where he saw two 'men' who disappeared. Later that evening, he encountered 5-7 'humanoid' shapes moving strangely. One being's eyes glowed red, and it emitted a beam of light. Mr. Jones's dog became nervous. Subsequent investigations with an investigation group did not yield further sightings. Mr. Jones also reported seeing similar beings near an electric sub-station.

I.O.W. UFOs

This section mentions recent reports from the Isle of Wight, including a sighting by amateur astronomer Mr. C. Laing on August 10th. He observed an object emitting a 'distinct orange glow' approaching at great speed from the north. He described its movement as comparable to no natural phenomenon he was aware of, noting it altered course eastward as it receded.

Two From the Past

L. Bowkett contributes two older cases:

1. Plymouth Sighting (approx. 15 years ago): Two people on holiday saw a bright, cigar-shaped object glowing red and appearing hot. It swooped down near them, avoided them, and passed close to a military vessel. After the object disappeared at speed, the ship's paint was found to be blistered or peeled. The explanation given was a 'newly tested rocket,' which the witness found implausible.
2. Hovering Disc (approx. 8 years ago): Two friends saw a disc-shaped object hovering over their house. It was described as huge, surrounded by a pale blue light, and remained stationary for three minutes before moving off vertically at great speed.

Press Cuttings

This section summarizes various UFO-related press reports:

• The Middlesex Chronicle: Reviewed a talk on UFOs given by Peter Wain.
• Liverpool Daily Post: Covered a skywatch by Michael Dean and the Wirral UFO Society.
• The Burton Observer: Reported on American Gallup poll findings that 15 million Americans claim to have seen a UFO.
• Walthamstow Guardian: Mentioned a lack of findings regarding an object believed to have descended into Lea Valley Banbury Reservoir.
• Hereford Evening News: Reported a 'mysterious silver object' later identified as a test balloon.
• The Northants Chronicle & Echo: Referred to sightings of 'moving objects' and 'travelling lights.'
• The Manchester Evening News: Mentioned U.S. Army Missile base radar picking up 'ghost ships' and an ICBM nose cone tracked by a UFO.
• Daily Express: Noted a course on UFOs organized by the Avon Education Authority.
• Southern Evening Echo: Mentioned W.A.T.S.U.P.'s newsletter.
• Aldershot Evening News: Covered SIGAP's activities.
• Bexleyheath Observer: Featured the North-West Kent UFO Society.

Chingford Follow-Up

Barry King provides further details on a previously reported UFO incident. He estimates the UFO's size at 50ft. across and clarifies that his mention of 'Spirits' was a joke. He notes a third witness who declined to comment. King also describes observing a bobbing red light that stopped and bounced, and later moved off. He then saw a tallish, motionless humanoid figure (approx. 5'5" to 5'9") with long blonde-whitish hair and a featureless face, wearing a long black dress, at a distance of about 25 feet from his home. He shone a torch on the figure's face, which remained blank.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently promotes a critical yet open-minded approach to UFO phenomena. It encourages rigorous investigation, distinguishes between scientific and pseudoscientific methods, and highlights the importance of accurate reporting and data collection. The editorial stance appears to be one of advocating for ufology as a legitimate field of study, while cautioning against unsubstantiated claims and speculative leaps. There is a strong emphasis on member participation and the sharing of information within the BUFORA community.

This issue of 'BOOK NEWS AND REVIEWS' focuses on books related to UFOs, ancient astronaut theories, and extraterrestrial contact, alongside a section on British sighting reports. The content is primarily a series of reviews and discussions of recently published literature in these fields.

Book Reviews

Review 1: 'The Gold of the Gods' by Erich von Däniken

Reviewed by Betty Wood, this book is described as the latest offering from Erich von Däniken. It begins with the discovery of mysterious caves and tunnels in Ecuador containing golden artifacts. However, the reviewer finds that the book quickly falls flat, reverting to von Däniken's recurring theme of ancient spacemen visiting Earth. Wood expresses disappointment that von Däniken's views seem to be ossifying rather than expanding, despite his extensive travels. While acknowledging his role in stimulating discussion and uncovering overlooked historical aspects, the reviewer criticizes his persistent insistence on the 'spacemen' theory, suggesting it may alienate supporters. The review points out that figures interpreted as 'gods' might be subconscious representations, and that elephant's trunks on statues could be primitive masks, not astronaut helmets. The Palenque tomb carving, interpreted by von Däniken as an astronaut, is suggested to be a symbolic tree of life. The reviewer concludes that if the archaeological claims are true, the book presents enough material to keep archaeologists busy for years, but criticizes the author for not getting out of his 'groove'.

Review 2: 'Man and the Stars' by Duncan Lunan

Reviewed by Colin Bord, this book by Duncan Lunan proposes that an unmanned space probe from another planet might be orbiting Earth and that unexplained radio signals from 1928 were an attempt at contact. Lunan's theory involves plotting these signals to create a diagram of the constellation Boötes with a misplaced star, suggesting a message. The reviewer notes that the mathematical proofs are beyond the average layman's understanding. The majority of the book explores possibilities of extraterrestrial contact through Earth's space technology, discussing life-bearing planets, propulsion methods, and biological questions. Chapter 11, 'They Find Us,' offers advice for Earth authorities on how to react to approaching alien spacecraft. Interestingly, despite Lunan's focus on space exploration, he reportedly rejects the idea that UFOs are already here, viewing them as natural phenomena. The reviewer suggests that Lunan, like other enthusiasts, may have formed a hypothesis and is now seeking facts to fit it, sometimes treating ufological evidence with sarcasm.

Review 3: 'UFOs From Behind the Iron Curtain' by Ion Hobana & Julien Weverbergh

Reviewed by Colin Bord, this book is described as a report on ufology in Eastern European countries. The reviewer finds it 'doubtless worthy but unexciting.' The organization of UFO investigations in these countries is seen as less developed than in the West, with official bodies struggling to handle the matter. Due to secrecy and suspicion, the public in these nations were largely unaware of UFO phenomena until the 1960s. The book covers the Tungus 'explosion' in Siberia and the official Russian stance on UFO reports, which is similar to the West's dismissive attitude. The review notes the absence of mention of private UFO research groups. The book also details sighting reports of LITS (lights in the sky) and solid artifacts, though many reports lack sufficient detail for statistical analysis. It aims to address critics who question why UFOs are seen only in Western Europe.

Review 4: 'Some Trust in Chariots!' edited by E. W. Castle & B. B. Thiering

This review, also by Colin Bord, discusses a book that serves as a counter-attack to Erich von Däniken's 'Chariots of the Gods?' The book is a compilation of 17 papers by specialists who critically examine von Däniken's work. The review highlights that von Däniken's idea of ancient astronauts was not original, with many authors preceding him. Despite his 'phenomenal success,' the review suggests von Däniken plagiarized earlier works. Unlike other authors who approached the theme with circumspection, von Däniken is accused of making unsupported charges of suppression, distorting facts, and lacking references. The consensus among the specialists in 'Some Trust in Chariots!' is that von Däniken's writing is careless, inaccurate, misleading, poorly researched, and sloppily translated. His mathematics are described as meaningless, and his style is characterized by creating mysteries and making frequent unsupported statements. Theologically, his arguments are deemed naive, showing no awareness of modern Biblical scholarship.

Other Book Mentions

The issue also briefly mentions or reviews several other books:

• 'CHARIOTS OF THE GODS?' by Erich von Däniken: Noted for its immense success, with millions of copies sold and translated into numerous languages, and adapted into a film.
• 'In Search of Ancient Gods' by Erich von Däniken: Praised for its 'pretty pictures,' many in color, extracted from the 'Chariots of the Gods' film.
• 'On the Shores of Endless Worlds' by Andrew Tomas: A follow-up to his previous book, exploring whether Earth has been visited.
• 'The Spaceships of Ezekiel' by J. F. Blumrich: Compares phenomena reported in Biblical visions with present-day spacecraft.
• 'The UFO Experience' by Allen Hynek: Published as an inexpensive paperback.
• 'Mysterious Britain' by Janet and Colin Bord: A pictorial guide available in paperback.
• 'Hidden Worlds' by van der Veer & Moerman: Interprets evidence as suggesting an advanced terrestrial civilization existed in prehistory.
• 'UFOS From Behind the Iron Curtain' by Hobana & Weverbergh: Described as the first UFO book from behind the Iron Curtain, maintaining an open-minded attitude and well-illustrated.
• 'Our Son Moves Among You' by Mary Long: Mentioned with a note of caution regarding its potential for nonsense.
• 'The Shape of Things to Come' by H. G. Wells: A classic work predicting the future of technology.
• 'The Next Ten Thousand Years' by Adrian Berry: Discusses predictions for the technological future.
• The Dennis Wheatley Library of the Occult: A set of uniformly-bound paperbacks including 'Dracula,' 'The Werewolf of Paris,' 'Moonchild,' 'Studies in Occultism,' 'Carnacki the Ghost Finder,' and 'The Sorcery Club.'
• 'Black Holes: The End of the Universe?' by John Taylor: Deals with the implications of black holes, with superficial treatment of UFOs, and is noted for speculative content and potential errors.
• 'Lost Worlds: Scientific Secrets of the Ancients' by Robert Charroux: Described as sensational and similar to von Däniken's work, concerning ancient accounts and artifacts.
• 'City of Revelation' by John Michell: A book on cosmic temple proportions and symbolic numbers, characterized by obscurantism and mysticism.
• 'Report on Planet Three-And Other Speculations' by Arthur C. Clarke: Praised as well-written, containing conjectural essays, including a skeptical chapter on UFOs.
• 'The Bible and Flying Saucers' by Barry H. Downing: A speculative book with additional appendices, whose hypotheses are not more verifiable than the Bible itself.
• 'Beyond the Time Barrier' by Andrew Tomas: A dissertation on time, criticized for unsubstantiated speculation but expected to be popular.

British Sighting Reports

This section details several UFO sighting reports from various locations in Britain:

• Dunstable, Beds.: Approximately 3 years prior to the report date, five orange, disc-shaped objects with portholes were observed at an angle of about 60° to the horizon.
• Widnes, Cheshire (August 27, 1973): A bright yellow disc-shaped object was seen rising from above houses, gathering speed and disappearing out of sight faster than an aircraft.
• Gainsborough, Lincs. (November 1973): A large mushroom-shaped object, described as a blend of yellow, orange, and red like fire, hovered for ten minutes, enveloped in smoke or mist.
• Worcester (June 3, 1974): Two unidentified objects, described as star-like, bright steel blue/white with long rays, travelled in a straight line, low in the sky, and appeared to curve downwards. They were observed by multiple witnesses, including a train driver.
• Harborne, Birmingham (July 1974): Mysterious lights of varying sizes and colors were observed flashing through the sky, following erratic paths and making instantaneous maneuvers. The main witness, a former police officer, was still observing them at the time of investigation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration of ancient astronaut theories, the possibility of extraterrestrial contact, and the analysis of UFO phenomena. There is a clear critical stance towards unsubstantiated claims, particularly those made by Erich von Däniken, with multiple reviews highlighting his lack of rigor and reliance on speculation. The publication appears to favor a more evidence-based and critical approach to ufology, while still acknowledging the interest in these subjects. The inclusion of British sighting reports suggests an effort to document and analyze contemporary UFO activity. The editorial tone is one of informed review, aiming to guide readers through the often sensationalized literature on these topics.

This issue of the BUFORA Journal, Volume 4, Number 3, dated May 1974, focuses on numerous reported UFO sightings and related theories. The journal, published in the United Kingdom, features detailed accounts from witnesses across various locations in England, Scotland, and Wales, alongside correspondence and discussions from experts and members.

UFO Sightings and Reports

The journal presents a series of dated reports, each detailing specific sightings:

• July 20th (Location unspecified): A triangular formation of two red lights, led by a white one, was chased by a military aircraft and winked out. The sightings were mostly silent, with one report of a 'generator' like noise.
• Report: 74-024. Saltash, Cornwall. April 24, 1974: A witness returning home saw a golden bright, round light descend, followed by a smaller light that emerged and faded. The larger light also disappeared.
• Report: 74-034. Tynant-Beddau, Glamorgan. June 14th or 21st, 1974: Over ten days, a housewife witnessed fourteen silent, bright lights. A spectacular sighting involved a brilliant white, low, large object with a fuzzy halo that seemed to revolve before gliding out of sight.
• Report: 74-039a. Hereford. May 28, 1974: Two witnesses observed a round metallic object with flashing lights moving erratically, tracking a jet aircraft, and then disappearing.
• Report: 74-039b. Hereford. August 5th/6th, 1974: The same witnesses saw a bright white light travelling silently, which veered and disappeared. The following night, another light appeared, intensified, moved, formed a triangle, and faded.
• Report: 74-042. Fulham. November, 1968 or 1969: A witness observed a golden yellow, egg-shaped object that moved slowly, increased speed, turned 180°, and sped out of sight.
• Report: 74-057. Milton, Stoke-on-Trent. August 16, 1974: Mrs. Marian Carthidge reported bright lights travelling across the sky. Later, a star-like object accelerated upwards and faded, followed by another that sped up and disappeared at an angle.
• Report: 74-059. Nr. London Airport. May, 1974: An observer sighted a silver spherical object that remained motionless before disappearing.
• Report: 74-060. Newcastle-on-Tyne. August 11, 1974: Mr. & Mrs. Charlton observed an orange/red object that grew bigger, turned on its side, changed shape, and disappeared.
• Report: 74-063. Telford, Shropshire. August 16, 1974: An oval shaped object hovered for ten minutes, changing color, before vanishing straight downwards.
• October 1970 (Sussex): K.W. observed four 'egg-shaped' yellow-orange objects hovering nearby, which sped off at a fantastic speed when he approached.

Theories and Discussions

The journal features several letters and discussions exploring potential explanations for UFO phenomena:

• Dr. Wilhelm Reich and Cosmic Orgone Energy: K. Knights inquires whether Dr. Reich's experiments, particularly using a 'cloud buster' to draw energy from UFOs, have been successfully repeated since his death.
• Mr. Burrows' Vortex Theory: Henry Chester comments on Mr. Burrows' theory regarding the origin of UFOs from electrical discharges. Chester humorously suggests that if UFOs were proven to have natural explanations, BUFORA's membership might decline, as many members might secretly prefer a more mysterious explanation.
• Vortex Motion and Electrical Charges: G. Falla discusses Mr. G. Burrows' theory that UFOs are produced by vortex motion in the atmosphere with electrical charges. Falla notes that this theory might explain 'luminous blobs' but struggles with sightings of solid, controlled objects. He also questions if the theory can account for various UFO characteristics like flying against the wind, witness paralysis, landings, occupant contacts, and diverse noises, and asks if it can explain radar-confirmed visual observations.
• Satellite Launches and UFOs: Falla also raises the possibility of UFOs being linked to satellite launches, noting that a vortex phenomenon might be caused by such events.

Correspondence and Member Information

The issue includes correspondence from:

• Margaret Wilton (Greenock): Discusses the Mimi Gorzelle contact claim, relating it to psychic centers and the Medulla Oblongata.
• Norman Oliver: Relates a sighting by K.W. of four 'egg-shaped' objects in Sussex.
• P. Hill (Chairman, Wessex Association for the Study of Unexplained Phenomena): Lists characteristics of UFO reports that Mr. Burrows' explanation cannot account for, including rapid flight against wind, witness paralysis, landings, occupant contacts, and varied noises.

Additionally, the journal contains advertisements, contact information for BUFORA's Vice-Chairman, Honorary Secretary, Subscriptions, Librarian, Research, and Publications departments, as well as details for various BUFORA branches (Yorkshire, Northern Ireland, Staffordshire) and member societies. A notice from the Hon. Membership Secretary reminds members to renew their subscriptions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed reporting of UFO sightings and the exploration of scientific and pseudoscientific explanations for these phenomena. The journal appears to maintain an open but critical stance, presenting witness accounts while also facilitating discussions and debates on theories. The editorial stance, as suggested by Henry Chester's letter, acknowledges that while some UFO reports may have mundane explanations (satellites, aircraft, meteors), a core group of sightings remains unexplained, leaving room for the 'mysterious' or 'fantastical' in the public imagination.