BUFORA Journal - Volume 04 No 05 - Winter 1974

Magazine Overview

Title: THE BUFORA JOURNAL
Issue: Volume 4 No. 5
Date: Winter 1974/5
Publisher: The British U.F.O. Research Association

This issue of The BUFORA Journal, published by The British U.F.O. Research Association, marks a significant transition with the introduction of a new editor and a revised publication schedule. The cover features a prominent illustration of a UFO and the journal's title, setting the tone for its content focused on Unidentified Flying Object phenomena.

New Editor and Re-scheduling

Following Norman Oliver's resignation as editor in October 1974, Richard Beet has been appointed as the new editor. Beet, who joined BUFORA in 1966 and has a background in ufology since 1958, is described as a professional journalist and an Associate Fellow of the British Interplanetary Society and a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society. The journal's publication frequency is being increased to bi-monthly, a decision stemming from a policy meeting in Newcastle-under-Lyme. This change aims to meet members' requests for more frequent information and will allow for the incorporation of Research Bulletin material directly into the Journal, necessitating tighter scheduling.

Editorial: New Year Resolutions

The editorial reflects on BUFORA's second decade, acknowledging a lack of significant advance in membership size and the quality of published scientific papers and reports. The association is perceived by many members as being little more than a "Publisher," with 85% of subscriptions spent on producing journals and research bulletins. To address this, the Executive Committee has resolved to prioritize investigation and research over publication. Furthermore, BUFORA intends to devote more attention to fostering local UFO groups and societies by appointing a Liaison Officer. The Journal will be slimmer but published more frequently. The editorial also expresses regret over Norman Oliver's resignation as editor, acknowledging his valuable contributions.

Public Relations

This section addresses the challenge of gaining serious consideration for UFO research. It highlights the need for caution and a low-key approach when speaking to the press and television to avoid sensationalism. A recent case involving Mr. David Rees, who allegedly made unsupported claims about hostility in UFO cases during a radio interview, is cited as an example of how individuals can harm research by introducing inaccurate and sensational information. The importance of being seen as responsible to leverage the public's interest in the subject is emphasized.

Company Registration

An announcement is made that a resolution passed at an Extraordinary General Meeting on December 7th will lead to the incorporation of the association as a company limited by guarantee.

Disclaimer

A disclaimer is issued stating that The British Unidentified Flying Object Research Association has no connection with a Mr. Rex Dutta of London, who has reportedly caused annoyance and embarrassment.

BUFORA-Committee Conference (November 23rd-24th, 1974)

Key decisions from the conference held at the Posthouse Motel, Newcastle-under-Lyme, are detailed:

1. Subscription Costs: The cost of periodical and supplementary notices sent to members will be reduced, with the cost not exceeding 65% of a member's subscription.
2. Publication Assistance: The Hon. Secretary will write to Mr. Richard Beet of SIGAP to seek his views on his approach to UFO subjects and proposals for Association publications.
3. Co-operation with F.S.R.: The Chairman will contact Mr. Charles Bowen, Editor of F.S.R., to explore co-operation opportunities.
4. Journal Contributions: Members were asked to supply copy for the Winter Journal by Christmas Eve, with contributions promised from Roger Stanway, Trevor Whitaker, Betty Wood, Anthony Pace, Charles Lockwood, and Ken Phillips.
5. Membership/Societies and Groups: A Branch and Society Liaison Officer will be appointed to foster local groups and branches. The Association will continue to encourage the formation of branches and the affiliation of local UFO groups as member societies, with each group receiving one voting representative at the Annual General Meeting.
6. Sighting Report Forms: A modified Sighting Report Form will be offered to affiliated groups at a small markup, requiring co-operation with regional co-ordinators.
7. Evaluation Panel: Mr. Tim O'Brien will act as Evaluation Co-ordinator, with the panel to include Dr. Geoffrey Doel, Mr. Tony Pace, Mr. Trevor Whitaker, and Mr. Tim O'Brien. A preliminary list of consultants will be prepared.
8. Investigators' Pass Cards: Mr. Arnold West will produce a suitable Investigators' card, to be renewed every three years.
9. Spring Conference: Scheduled for 10th/11th May in North Staffs, with a focus on scientific content.
10. Investigators' Conference: A Special Weekend Conference for R.I.Cs and other Investigators will be held on March 8th for training and contingency planning.
11. Questionnaires: New questionnaire forms will be printed on self-duplicating paper.
12. Accommodation Agency: Mr. Lionel Beer will produce facts and figures on the use of Accommodation Agencies.
13. Contact with CONTACT UK: The Chairman will approach CONTACT UK to discuss co-operation and arrange meetings.

Vice-Chairman's Column: Meetings

Lionel Beer addresses complaints about BUFORA not organizing meetings outside London. He explains that London lectures are self-supporting, relying on non-member surcharges. He notes that local BUFORA branches do hold meetings and welcome non-members. However, organizing meetings in distant locations like Liverpool is impractical without local expertise. Beer encourages local members to organize events, citing the successful Kettering UFO Research Group as an example. He also announces BUFORA's Spring Conference in Stoke-on-Trent, inviting Midlands and Northern UFO groups.

OMS LORE?

Lionel Beer recommends the French Sci-Fi film "FANTASTIC PLANET" for its colorful escapism, noting its basis on Stefan Wul's novel and its themes of oppression and conciliation.

BUFORA HANDBOOK No. 1

A request is made for a reference copy of "BUFORA HANDBOOK No. 1," edited by Malcolm Bull and published by the British UFO Association in the early sixties, for the BUFORA library.

Charities

Lionel Beer discusses the potential benefits of BUFORA adopting charitable status, outlining the legal requirements and the financial advantages such as exemption from income tax, corporation tax, and capital gains tax. He notes the anomalies in current charitable law and the significant contributions made by large companies. The section also mentions the registration of over 1,000 new charities in 1972 with diverse aims.

Dr. Hynek Lectures in London

This article reports on Dr. J. Allen Hynek's four lectures given in London in August 1973 at the International Festival of Yoga and Psychic Sciences. The lectures covered the exploration of the Universe and unidentified flying objects. Dr. Hynek discussed his initial skepticism as an evaluator for the USAF's Project BLUEBOOK and his later recognition of serious scientific import in UFO reports. He noted that while most reports are explicable, a residue remains unexplained. He also touched upon the ridicule surrounding UFOs, the study of UFO reports rather than the objects themselves, the concept of hallucination, and the classification of UFO reports into six categories. He concluded by advocating for a "Court of Law" approach to UFO evidence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue emphasizes BUFORA's commitment to scientific investigation and research, moving beyond its role as a mere publisher. There is a clear focus on improving communication with members through more frequent publications and fostering connections with local UFO groups. The editorial stance is one of striving for greater scientific rigor and public credibility in the field of UFO research, while also acknowledging the practical challenges and the need for responsible public relations. The inclusion of Dr. Hynek's lectures highlights the ongoing engagement with prominent figures in the UFO research community.

This issue of The British U.F.O. Research Association Research Bulletin, dated August 15th, 1974, focuses on the evolving landscape of UFO research, emphasizing a shift towards more scientific and objective investigation. The bulletin features a blend of reports on lectures, personal experiments, case analyses, book reviews, and organizational updates.

"Future Trends in UFO Investigations" Lecture

The issue opens with a report on a UFO lecture by Dr. Hynek, introduced by Gordon Creighton of "Flying Saucer Review." Dr. Hynek noted that the field was moving beyond 'kooks and crackpots' and highlighted the existence of the 'Invisible College,' a group of scientifically qualified individuals willing to examine the UFO problem objectively. He outlined ideas for a 'UFO Center,' conceived to address the phenomenon, which, like meteorites in the 18th century, does not yet fit into modern science. Physicists were seen as most ready to deal with it, suggesting a need for new physics and open-minded individuals. Dr. Hynek praised the work of Dr. Claude Poher from the French National Centre for Space Studies for his statistical study of French UFO cases, a type of research also undertaken by Dr. Jacques Vallée. Dr. Hynek stressed the need for specialization, citing Ted Phillips' study of landing marks, and warned against premature acceptance of the extraterrestrial hypothesis. The proposed modus operandi for the 'UFO Center' included a Clearing House, an investigative department (using 'FBI treatment'), a central data-bank (potentially accessible to the UN), and a research and analysis department. The Center would also house a library and a Public Relations Office. Interested persons can contact the Center for UFO Studies at P.O. Box 11, Northfield, Illinois 60093, USA. Mark Stenhoff, F.R.A.S., reported on this lecture.

Gyroscope Experiments and Anti-Gravity

Michael A. Rouse of Leicester shares his experiments with a simple gyroscope. He observed a slight decrease in the gyroscope's weight when its rotor was spinning rapidly, posing the question of whether a rotating gyroscope creates an anti-gravity field proportional to its speed. Rouse suggests that if UFOs are extraterrestrial vehicles, rapid rotation of their rims could cancel Earth's gravitational pull, explaining the 'falling-leaf' motion observed. He also theorizes that gyroscopic action could create artificial gravity within the craft, overcoming inertial forces, and attract air molecules to the craft's surface, alleviating friction heat. Rouse invites others to conduct similar experiments.

Psychic Centres and Thought Entities

In a letter to the editor, a correspondent discusses the 'Mimi Gorzelle Contact' and the concept of psychic centres, particularly those related to the spine and head. The writer notes that in Eastern traditions, centres are on the spine, unlike the Western view of them being in the front of the body. The centre at the nape of the neck is linked to higher knowledge and the 'inpouring of knowledge.' The correspondent also references Gordon Creighton's mention of this in relation to a 1972 kidnap case in Buenos Aires.

Another letter addresses the Loch Ness monster, proposing it to be a "Thought Entity." This concept, drawn from "Ancient and Forbidden Knowledge," describes artificial entities created by the minds of men, borrowing life or vitality from their creators. The writer suggests that concentrated thought power from past worshippers of a serpent-like God or the Devil near Loch Ness could have formed such an entity. The letter also notes that ghosts often appear near water sources due to strong electrical forces that can feed apparitions, suggesting the Loch Ness creature is sustained by this energy and continuous belief.

Meteorological Theories for UFOs

L. Moulster of Dunstable critiques G. Burrows' theory of a meteorological origin for UFOs, which suggests gases in atmospheric disturbances like tornadoes could produce plasma phenomena. Moulster argues that the conditions required for tornadoes (summer/early autumn, specific pressure drops) are rare in the UK and do not align with the majority of UFO sightings, which often occur after sunset, in winter, and under clear, cold conditions. He emphasizes that UFO reports come from all over the globe, at all times, and under all meteorological conditions, making a localized meteorological theory insufficient.

Meeting at Newcastle-under-Lyme

A report details a public meeting sponsored by the North Staffordshire Branch of BUFORA. Roger Stanway introduced Lionel Beer, who discussed the current UFO scene in Britain and overseas, comparing situations in France, the USA, and Britain, and mentioning Dr. Hynek's 'Center for U.F.O. Studies.' Roger Stanway then presented details of three Staffordshire sightings from 1677, 1954, and other dates in the 1950s and 1960s. Tony Pace followed with slides of the 1967 wave and more recent cases. Lionel Beer concluded with slides of UFO photographs and cartoons.

Book Review: "The Cosmic Connection" by Carl Sagan

Colin Bord reviews Carl Sagan's book, clarifying that the 'connection' refers to mankind's understanding of the cosmos, not extraterrestrial contact. Bord notes that Sagan's work covers topics from spacecraft missions to astronomy. The review highlights Sagan's section on whether Earth has been visited, where he mathematically suggests that 10,000 spacecraft launches per year from each advanced civilization would be needed for one UFO to reach Earth, and that 1% of the galaxy's stars would be required for materials. Sagan dismisses UFO reports as unreliable. Bord concludes that while the book is a 'jolly good read' for those interested in space travel, it doesn't address the complexity of the UFO phenomenon for those who suspect a deeper truth.

Books for Sale

A list of UFO-related books is provided for purchase, including works by Dr. Allen Hynek, Gosta Rehn, Ralph & Judy Blum, and Ivan Sanderson. Orders can be sent to Lionel Beer.

Keeping Up With The Times

Anthony R. Pace writes about the changing climate towards UFO research, noting a more positive attitude from the scientific community and establishment. He mentions France's official investigation of UFO reports since 1954 and the growing support for Dr. J. Allen Hynek's Centre for UFO Studies in the USA. BUFORA is also joining the Centre, aiming to improve its image and research quality. Developments include improved sighting report forms and an investigators' handbook. Pace looks forward to BUFORA becoming a limited company and charity, and announces a Spring National Research and Investigations Conference in Staffordshire in May 1975.

Investigator's Conference and Motor Vehicle Interference Project

Information is provided about an Investigators' Conference on March 8th, 1975, organized by Ken Phillips, focusing on investigation techniques and contingency plans. A BUFORA National Research and Investigations Conference is also announced for May 10th/11th, 1975, in Staffordshire.

The "Motor Vehicle Interference Project" is discussed, with an idea from T. R. Dutton suggesting UFOs might be research vehicles using microwave emissions for sensing and propulsion. The physical evidence discussed includes conical beams of light, high-intensity microwave emissions causing heating and skin burns, interference with radio transmissions (acting as a jammer), and interference with car electrical systems (failure of all systems). The explanation for vehicle interference involves the production of eddy currents, current leakage via ionisation paths, and modification of metal conductivity by intense r.f. fields.

Wanted: Branch and Society Liaison Officer

BUFORA is seeking a Branch and Society Liaison Officer to improve contact between its branches and other UFO groups. The role requires enthusiasm, knowledge, tact, spare time, and willingness to travel, with reasonable expenses reimbursed.

Further Exciting News on the Betty & Barney Hill Case

This section reproduces an article from the A.P.R.O. Bulletin analyzing the Betty and Barney Hill case. The couple claimed memory loss after a close-range UFO observation in 1961, followed by vivid dreams of abduction and examination. Mrs. Hill later drew a star map allegedly showing her abductors' home star. The challenge of identifying this pattern from thousands of stars is discussed, noting that professional astronomers are hesitant to tackle such sensational cases. The article introduces Marjorie E. Fish, an elementary schoolteacher who constructed a three-dimensional model of space to test the star pattern.

The Fish Models

Marjorie E. Fish, a self-taught astronomer, is described as a gifted and dedicated person who decided to search for the star pattern by constructing a three-dimensional model of the volume of space surrounding the sun. The article implies that this model is key to verifying the tangible aspects of the Hill experience.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The bulletin consistently promotes a move towards more rigorous, scientific, and objective UFO research, moving away from sensationalism and speculation. There is a clear emphasis on collaboration between different UFO organizations and a desire to integrate UFO studies into a more accepted scientific framework. The articles reflect a growing optimism about the potential for UFO research to gain wider acceptance and credibility, while also acknowledging the significant hurdles that remain, particularly in gaining the attention and acceptance of the mainstream scientific community. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging serious investigation, data collection, and theoretical development, while cautioning against premature conclusions, especially regarding the extraterrestrial hypothesis.

This issue of "UFO Sightings" (Volume 1974, Part I) focuses on two primary areas: the investigation of UFOs causing vehicle interference and the detailed reconstruction of a star map allegedly seen by Betty Hill. The magazine includes research reports, a catalogue of sightings, and articles on related topics.

Research into UFO Sightings Involving Reports of Vehicle Interference

This section details Project S.2., initiated in late 1973 by BUFORA, to study UFO sightings characterized by vehicle malfunctions. The project aimed to draw attention to overlooked questions regarding how UFOs interfere with vehicles. A team of 11 members, including the Edinburgh University UFO Society, was assembled. By the time of this report, over 180 cases from around the world had been cataloged. The project received over 70 communications and 40 replies. Two recent sightings, cases 74-020 and 74-067, prompted the creation of a supplementary questionnaire for investigators to gather more detailed information on vehicle malfunctions. This questionnaire, intended for use by BUFORA investigators, includes 19 detailed questions covering vehicle make and model, dashboard instruments, electrical systems, driving conditions, gear changes, specific malfunctions, fuel type, maintenance, battery condition, physical effects on the environment and witness, mileage, and any damage or mechanic reports.

The research team acknowledges that ordinary witnesses often miss details of instrumentation. They propose either relying on vehicle experts or using alternative methods like hypnosis to extract more information. The questionnaire is expected to be modified, and discussions on these investigation techniques are planned for the Spring Research and Investigation Conference in Staffordshire.

The article concludes with three questions posed to the membership for further investigation: 1) Are there cases where diesel vehicles have experienced light failure but not power loss, suggesting electrical rather than mechanical issues? 2) If microwaves cause electron flow breakdown, where does this occur, and have non-metallic bodied vehicles been stopped? 3) Have cases occurred where the unidirectional flow of current has been inhibited?

More about Betty and Barney Hill

This section details Marjorie Fish's persistent quest to recreate a star map allegedly shown to Betty Hill. Fish, holding a B.S. in sociology and a member of MENSA, has diverse interests including anthropology, biology, photography, art, and sculpture. Her initial model of stars within five parsecs led her to expand her search to a larger volume. Her subsequent models, consisting of up to 259 beads on string, represented stars colored and sized according to spectral class, positioned at scaled distances and directions from the sun. This six-year search involved over 20 models, checking thousands of stars in catalogs, and extensive photography and visual inspection. It took Marjorie two years to find the first five stars and another seven to eight months for the next four. The final three stars required over three more years of intensive work.

A visit to Betty Hill's home in 1969 revealed that the map appeared three-dimensional, like a reflective hologram, approximately three feet wide and two feet high, with tinted, glowing stars. The star Zeta Tucanae, not initially visible on the Hill drawing, was crucial in discovering the final stars in the pattern in the autumn of 1972. Marjorie realized that viewing the model from below at a 45-degree angle, potentially accounting for occultation by Zeta Tucanae or Zeta Reticuli, revealed the complete pattern. Difficult angles and model frame blockages had previously prevented its discovery.

Conditions for Life

This article discusses the conditions necessary for life to evolve on planets, focusing on the characteristics of stars. Stars form from contracting dust and gas clouds, initiating hydrogen fusion in their core. After an unstable period, they reach the main sequence, where they spend most of their lives. When hydrogen is exhausted, stars evolve into red giants, white dwarfs, or neutron stars. Stars are classified into spectral classes O, B, A, F, G, K, and M, based on decreasing surface temperature, with further subdivisions. For planetary life to evolve into complex intelligent organisms, a star must remain on the main sequence for at least three to four billion years, providing a stable heat and light output. Massive O, B, and A stars have lifetimes less than three billion years, while F through M stars have lifetimes ranging from four to 100 billion years. Planets must also orbit within the star's habitable thermal zone (ecosphere). While O to early F stars have wide ecospheres, their short lifetimes are prohibitive. Late K and M types have long lifetimes but small ecospheres and may experience stellar flares. Exobiologists suggest that main-sequence stars ranging from F2 to K5, or G types, offer the most suitable conditions for life's evolution.

The diagram shown is based on Betty Hill's original sketch, with heavy lines indicating regular trade routes and broken lines representing space expeditions. The Sun is noted as a G2V star.

The Call of Isis

This section reviews "The Call of Isis" by Olivia Robertson, a book describing her eleven years of experience in psychic, occult, and mystical fields, particularly in South Ireland and London. The book specializes in inducing psychic projection through trance and includes a psychic happening with UFO connotations. It is presented as an original account of experiences involving artists, musicians, dancers, craftsmen, and writers, inspired by nature. The book is available in paperback with 12 black and white illustrations, priced at £1, with postage and packing extra.

1974 Catalogue

This section presents the "1974 UFO Sightings Catalogue - Part I," listing 31 cases recorded by the Association. Each entry includes a number, date, time (GMT), location, and the investigator or source of the report. The catalogue also includes an "Investigation" column, noting the stage of the investigation (e.g., Prelim. Form, Under Investigation) and an "Evaluation" column, providing a preliminary assessment of the sighting (e.g., UFO, Aircraft, Meteor, Astronomical, Insufficient Data). The catalogue is intended as a list of sightings, and only three cases are noted as being of any significance so far. The department intends to publish all material in a single project report as soon as practicable.

Other Sections

• Editorial: Discusses the progress and scope of the research projects.
• BUFORA Committee Conference: Notes a conference held by the committee.
• Vice-Chairman's Column: Provides updates and correspondence details.
• Charities: Mentions charitable activities.
• Dr. Hynek Lectures in London: Refers to lectures by Dr. Hynek.
• "What you Say": A section for member contributions or opinions.
• Meeting at Newcastle-under-Lyme: Reports on a meeting.
• Book Review: Reviews of books, including "The Call of Isis."
• Research Bulletin: Provides updates on research activities.
• Correspondence: General honorary secretary's contact details.
• Subscriptions: Information on how to subscribe.
• Librarian: Contact for the association's library.
• Research: Contact for research inquiries.
• Publications: Contact for publications.
• Branches: Lists contact information for various BUFORA branches (Yorkshire, Northern Ireland, Staffordshire).
• Advertisements: Personal column and display rates are listed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the meticulous investigation of UFO phenomena, particularly focusing on tangible evidence and detailed reporting. There is a strong emphasis on systematic data collection, as seen in Project S.2. and the 1974 Catalogue. The magazine also explores the intersection of UFOs with other fields, such as astronomy (star maps, conditions for life) and the psychic/occult (Olivia Robertson's book). The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous inquiry, encouraging members to ask pertinent questions and contribute to the collective understanding of UFOs, while also acknowledging the limitations of current research and the need for specialized expertise. The publication aims to inform its membership about ongoing projects and encourage their participation.