BUFORA Journal - Volume 04 No 06 - March April 1975

Magazine Overview

Title: BUFORA JOURNAL
Issue: Volume 4 No 6
Date: March/April 1975
Publisher: The British U.F.D. Research Association

This issue of the BUFORA JOURNAL, published by The British U.F.D. Research Association, focuses on UFO activity and related topics, with a strong emphasis on investigation and scientific logic. The editorial highlights the challenges of ufology as an 'embryo science' and the need for rigorous data collection and analysis. It also discusses the importance of communication and co-operation among members and with other organizations.

Editor's Introduction: Communication and Co-operation

In his editorial, Richard Beet, the new editor, emphasizes that the Journal is a medium for members to present their ideas, encouraging reasoned arguments based on common sense. He states his intention for the Journal not to reflect his personal ideas but to serve as a platform for diverse viewpoints. Beet stresses the importance of members writing in with their disagreements or comments, promising to ensure all reasoned arguments are presented fairly. He also touches upon the economic challenges facing the publishing industry and how BUFORA plans to optimize its mailing budget to provide a more regular and topical journal for its members.

The editorial also discusses the role of BUFORA within the broader context of UFO research, advocating for the demonstration of the work being done in the field to the scientific community. It acknowledges the existence of other publications, specifically recommending 'Flying Saucer Review' for keeping up with worldwide events, and suggests that the combination of BUFORA Journal and FSR will keep ufologists well-informed.

Calling ALL members!

A section announces plans to produce a Directory of Members during 1975 and requests members to ensure their application/renewal forms are correct, especially regarding county information. Members who do not wish to be included in the directory are asked to contact Mr. J. Webber.

UFO Activity in the North

By Chris Randles, this article details a minor flap of UFO reports occurring between October and December 1974, primarily in Liverpool and the rural areas of Lancashire, north of Manchester. The report highlights the involvement of local UFO groups and media. A significant case involves a multiple witness sighting in Haslingden on November 24, 1974, where four witnesses from two locations observed two small, golden bronze cigar-shaped objects moving in a sweeping arc. The objects appeared to merge into one larger object. The article notes that the witnesses are familiar with aircraft and are certain these were not conventional aircraft, also mentioning a faint humming sound. Investigations suggest aircraft are unlikely to be the cause, and local air routes do not align with the observed paths.

CETI Signal to Messier 13

This section reports on a deliberate attempt made in November 1974 to signal to another civilization in space. The National Astronomy and Ionospheric Centre (NAIC) in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, aimed its large dish at the star cluster Messier 13. A message in binary code, containing a computerized picture of the Solar System, the outline of a human being, Earth's population, and the structure of human DNA, was transmitted. This message will take 24,000 years to reach its destination. Messier 13 was chosen due to the higher probability of reaching an extraterrestrial civilization within the cluster of approximately 300,000 stars.

Another Spanish Flap

By Carol Godsell and Richard Beet, this article investigates a series of UFO reports from Spain in early January 1975. The initial indication came from BBC Radio News on January 5, reporting an object with a green pulsating light landing near Zaragoza on January 2. Two witnesses observed the object, which then took off and was chased by Spanish Air Force jets. Further investigation revealed the incident occurred within an air force base perimeter. Preliminary reports indicated no ground traces, and the official statement attributed the sighting to an optical illusion due to the moon and mist, suggesting defective eyesight of the military personnel.

The article also details a report from soldiers near Burgos on January 1, 1975, who observed a ship-like, flattened, cone-shaped object with a strong yellow-white light, landing or suspended above the ground. The soldiers, under stress, drove away quickly. The EFE Agency later concluded that the military personnel had been mistaken. The article notes the lack of British press coverage and mentions that Spain has a history of such incidents, with Spanish Air Force jets being scrambled on previous occasions.

It is suggested that there were three separate sightings in Spain, though not necessarily of the same object. The authors contacted a counterpart in Barcelona, Centro de Estudios Interplanetorios, and received newspaper cuttings. The article also references a 1968 incident in Spain, questioning whether the Spanish air ministry over-reacts to unexplained phenomena.

An accompanying piece, "AIR FORCE HUNT FOR SAUCERS," details how the Spanish Air Force has been actively searching for flying saucers following numerous mystery object reports. A communique from the Air Ministry stated that such reports should be made immediately to the nearest Air Force station. This follows a report by a chemist who claimed a flying object followed his car.

Review: The Occult

This review by Betty Wood discusses Colin Wilson's book, 'The Occult.' The reviewer praises the book as an excellent starter for gaining comprehensive knowledge of the subject, noting Wilson's open-minded approach and intuitive grasp of complex matters. The book includes an analytical table and an extensive index and bibliography. The review highlights that the book touches upon UFOs, linking them to the paranormal, and analyzes some 'weirder contact stories.' While acknowledging that the author does not reach definite conclusions, the reviewer commends his ability to present the subject clearly. The paperback version is considered good value for money and is thoroughly recommended.

Review: Mysteries from forgotten worlds

Colin Bord reviews Charles Berlitz's book, 'Mysteries from forgotten worlds.' The review mentions discoveries of underwater roads, temples, and cities near the Bahamas, and the possibility of secret ruined cities in the South American jungle. It also touches on the use of plant juice to soften stone by ancient builders. However, the reviewer expresses concern about Berlitz's accuracy, particularly regarding sites like Glastonbury and Avebury, questioning the credibility of his other claims due to perceived inaccuracies in easily verifiable facts.

Review: Did Spacemen Colonise the Earth

Colin Bord reviews Robin Collyns' book, 'Did Spacemen Colonise the Earth,' which presents strange facts and fantasies related to the Von Däniken theme. The reviewer notes that Collyns treats all sources as equally reliable, including figures like Lobsang Rampa and Col James Churchward alongside established authorities. The book is criticized for its lack of perception, with the author appearing to believe in the 'Bermuda triangle' as a geometrical angular shape formed by electronic or magnetic devices. The reviewer finds the book to be unsubstantiated speculation, lacking an index despite an extensive bibliography.

OURANOS

This section describes 'Ouranos,' a bi-monthly journal specializing in UFOs and unexplained phenomena, founded in 1951. It contains reports of sightings and investigations, along with a paranormal column. Subscription details and contact information for a specimen copy are provided.

Yorks Branch help with RAF presentation on UFOs

This piece reports on items loaned by the Yorkshire Branch of BUFORA for a presentation on UFOs held at RAF Leeming on October 3, 1974. The presentation was given by Pilot Officers as part of their course. The event generated interest in the subject at the station, and contacts were made that could prove valuable. It also mentions a past report by an RAF sergeant who saw a UFO land and take off from the runway at Leeming.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include UFO sightings and investigations, particularly focusing on recent activity in the UK and Spain. There is a consistent emphasis on the need for a scientific and logical approach to UFO research, as articulated in the editorial. The journal also serves as a platform for book reviews, covering topics related to the occult, ancient mysteries, and speculative theories about extraterrestrial influence on Earth. The editorial stance promotes open discussion and reasoned debate among members, while also aiming to increase the credibility of ufology within the broader scientific community. The importance of international co-operation and information sharing is also evident.

This issue of the APRO Bulletin, dated September-October 1974, features a prominent cover story titled "Strange sphere lands in New Mexico." The magazine delves into various UFO-related incidents, investigations, and discussions, including a Vice-Chairman's Column, a detailed investigation of a photographic sighting, and a critical examination of the extraterrestrial hypothesis.

Strange Sphere Lands in New Mexico

The lead article details an incident on May 17, 1974, at Kirtland AFB East, New Mexico. Electronic scanning instruments registered a massive energy burst in the 250-275 MHz range, causing instruments to go off-scale. The energy was first noted in the upper atmosphere, and a trajectory was plotted. A recovery team was dispatched to an area southwest of Chilli, New Mexico, which was cordoned off. A metallic, circular object, approximately 60 feet in diameter, was later moved into a hangar at Kirtland AFB. An APRO investigator spoke to the monitoring technician, whose name was withheld due to his military status. The technician reported that a Kirtland AFB officer ordered him to forget what he had seen. When asked if the object was American or Russian space debris, the informant stated it was not. The incident is credited to the 'APRO Bulletin,' September-October 1974.

Vice-Chairman's Column: Odds Against a UFO Landing

Lionel Beer, the Vice-Chairman, discusses a £25 bet placed by a Leeds businessman with Ladbrokes, betting that an unidentified flying object with aliens would land on Earth by December 31, 1976, at odds of 1000 to 1. Beer notes that he agreed the odds sounded generous and that he had previously stated there was plenty of evidence to indicate UFOs had landed. He then recounts a report of a UFO landing on an air force bombing and gunnery range at Las Bardenas Reales, near Zaragoza, Spain, on January 2, 1975. This report was confirmed by USAF personnel, and a Spanish military judge was appointed to investigate. Ron Pollard of Ladbrokes was dogmatic, stating that the spacecraft would have to land or crash, and that reports from the Irish would not be accepted. The odds for such a bet have since been shortened to 100 to 1.

Capital Radio Phone-in

This section describes a phone-in program on UFOs hosted by Capital Radio on January 9, featuring Peter Fairley as the main respondent. The author expresses doubts about Fairley's suitability, finding him remarkably ill-informed. Fairley was unfamiliar with the Pascagoula landing case and dismissed it with cynicism. He also reportedly mentioned the misleading use of ESRO satellite photos and the hollow earth theory, though he seemed to have forgotten the author's name. Fairley also recounted the Oldfield case, where an airliner's tailplane was distorted into a 'UFO' in a photograph. The author managed to get through towards the end of the program to promote BUFORA. Fairley was also unfamiliar with the Lakenheath case of 1956, despite knowing of the Condon Report. Some callers suggested Fairley was part of a government cover-up. The author concludes that program directors should hire specialists and that BUFORA should be more accessible during office hours.

Foyled Again

A BUFORA enquirer visited Foyles Bookshop seeking UFO books. The gentleman in the Science Department suggested they would be found in the 'Science Fiction Department.' However, the author notes that on a previous visit, UFO books were in a different section.

The Marchant Sighting—Fact or Fiction?

This article investigates a UFO sighting by 21-year-old Greg Marchant in Bournemouth, UK, on October 21, 1974. Marchant took a Polaroid photograph, which was publicized by the group 'Unexplained Phenomena Research Group' (SCAN International). The article notes that the photograph revealed far more than ufologists might have hoped for. SCAN International provided BUFORA with permission to reproduce their investigation details from their newsletter, with the condition that no alterations be made. SCAN was selling copies of the photograph for 60 pence. The author, R.B., states that his calculations suggest the apparent diameter of the alleged UFO was five times greater than the full moon, yet it was not seen by anyone else.

The SCAN investigation report details Marchant's account: he saw a bright greeny-blue light moving across the sky, grabbed his Polaroid camera, and ran outside. The object moved fast from West to North-East. He took a photograph, which included a flash. The object disappeared immediately after. The photograph showed the object as like an electric light shade with a white circular underneath portion, an orange area within, and a green and purple conical shape connecting the two, appearing to rotate slowly. It was visible for about four minutes, moving fast to the north-east with no sound. The image on the film was about 1/8 inch in diameter. The author notes that the photograph has been described as similar to an Adamski type UFO, though Marchant had never seen one.

The article also includes a brief report from the Bournemouth Evening Echo of October 24, which quoted a Hurn Airport spokesman suggesting that planes with revolving navigation lights and headlights on can look spectacular under certain climatic conditions, and that helicopters could also appear strange at night. The SCAN report dismisses this, stating that no aircraft were reported and questioning the silence of such aircraft. SCAN concludes that the photograph is 100% genuine.

The BUFORA investigation report (74-068) from October 21, 1974, notes the extensive publicity surrounding the photograph but points out that the visual report is vague. It raises questions about the lack of other witnesses despite the object's size and visibility duration, and the witness's ability to pan the camera to follow a fast-moving object without blurring, especially given the flash bulb's activation. The report concludes that while it could be an important sighting, careful consideration is needed before accepting it as more than a rational explanation.

What You Say

This section contains letters from readers. Chris Randles, UNO Publications Editor, proposes ideas to improve BUFORA's position in outlying regions. She suggests appointing assistants to Regional Investigation Co-ordinators (RICs) to improve communication with members, and for BUFORA to collaborate with local UFO investigation groups. She believes this would help retain members and attract new ones. She also suggests that BUFORA branches should reach agreements with local UFO investigation groups, exchanging national report gathering benefits for investigative results and local publicity.

Another letter from 'Dear Sir' responds to questions raised in the autumn journal. The author suggests that while UFOs might be electrical discharges, there would still be unexplained appearances. The letter also discusses the possibility of 'NIFO' (natural identified flying object) and the potential for increased interest. The author also addresses Mr. Hill's points, explaining that ground-level wind direction is not indicative of higher levels, and that radiation from atmospheric electrical discharges can be dangerous, potentially causing 'paralysis of witnesses' and radiation burns. Landing sites might be explained by vortex motion combined with electrical discharge.

Another letter from G. Burrows, CENG, MIMECHE, discusses the behavior of physical phenomena and contrasts it with personal contact experiences. He expresses interest in known characteristics and explanations, preferring not to comment on personal contact phenomena. He also discusses how sound heard by an observer can be modified by the atmosphere and surroundings, and how echoes can alter the perceived sound. He is grateful to Mr. Falla for the idea of electrically charged rings and notes that the 'crackle' might be experienced as a whistle or hum. He suggests that systematic tests are needed and that a university physics department might find the subject suitable for a PhD thesis.

Another Spanish Flap

This brief section mentions a spectacular sighting in Madrid in September, where thousands saw a bright object pursued by Air Force jets. The object eluded the jets and escaped.

Artificial Aurora

A Soviet electron accelerator is to be launched into space by a French rocket from Kerguelen Island, with the electrons intruding into the ionosphere above the USSR.

The Death of ETH

By Richard Colborne, this article questions the value of the extraterrestrial hypothesis (ETH) as the primary explanation for the UFO phenomenon. Colborne suggests that UFOs may result from other considerations and that the ETH can only explain a tiny percentage of sightings. He notes that in the early 1950s, various theories existed, but the ETH became common. He argues that the idea of Earth being invaded by aliens should have died out with the era of flying saucers. Colborne finds it interesting that BUFORA openly admits to using the ETH as its working hypothesis. He states that while laymen and scientists cling to the ETH, UFO researchers have divergent opinions. He notes that many researchers who reject the ETH remain silent because their findings are even more bizarre than the 'invaders from Mars' concept. The article touches upon statistics regarding intelligent life on other planets, highlighting the vast differences in estimates and questioning the chances of interstellar travel.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings, investigations, and the interpretation of evidence. There is a clear emphasis on the need for rigorous investigation and critical analysis, as seen in the Marchant photograph case and the questioning of the ETH. The magazine also highlights the importance of communication and collaboration within the UFO community, as proposed in the 'What You Say' section. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various incidents and viewpoints while encouraging further research and questioning established hypotheses. The inclusion of letters and columns suggests a platform for debate and the sharing of ideas among enthusiasts and researchers.

This issue of the BUFORA Journal, identified as Volume 3, Number 1, with a cover date of Summer 1974, features a prominent headline "The Death of ETH" and delves into various aspects of UFO research and related topics. The magazine is published by BUFORA and is in English.

The Death of ETH

The lead article, "The Death of ETH," by Richard Colborne, challenges the prevailing assumption that UFO sightings are primarily evidence of extraterrestrial visitation. The author posits that while extraterrestrial life may exist and even visit Earth, the UFO phenomenon itself is largely composed of something else, possibly of a psychic or cosmic nature. The article critiques the tendency to equate flying saucers with alien spacecraft, suggesting that this connection is not as direct as commonly believed. It highlights the sheer volume of UFO sightings worldwide and questions whether the ETH is a sufficient explanation, especially given the number of unexplained cases. The author advocates for BUFORA to reconsider the ETH as its sole working hypothesis and to explore other avenues of investigation with an unbiased approach. The article also touches upon the personal experiences of witnesses, emphasizing their genuine nature and the common threads that link them globally, suggesting a coordination that is significant.

ETH - a final comment

In a concluding section, Richard Colborne reiterates that he is not denying the existence of life on other planets or its potential arrival on Earth. However, he maintains that the UFO phenomenon is largely composed of something other than direct extraterrestrial visitation. He suggests that while some experiences are psychic, the synchronicity between sightings, even misinterpretations of natural phenomena, points towards a psychic or cosmic motivation. The author recommends "Uri" by Andrija Puharich for readers interested in this spiritual interpretation.

BUFORA Ltd-members give go-ahead

This section reports on an Extraordinary General Meeting of BUFORA where members unanimously approved the registration of the Association as a company limited by guarantee. The meeting, held on December 7th in Kensington, also discussed the potential for financial support or honoraria for members of the Council of Management and other individuals performing work for the Association. The possibility of publicizing the Association's application to the Charity Commissioners was also addressed.

Canadian CETI Probe

This brief report details a new initiative by Canadian astronomers to search for extra-terrestrial radio signals of intelligent origin. Using a 150ft radio-telescope in Algonquin, Ontario, researchers from York University and Queen's University will concentrate on six stars and examine 300-500 others. The search is designed to last at least a year, focusing on non-variable and slowly rotating stars, which are theorized to be more likely to host planetary companions.

Research Department News

This section announces the upcoming National Research and Investigations Conference, scheduled for May 10-11, 1975, in Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent. The conference, organized in conjunction with the Staffordshire Branch of BUFORA, aims to improve the objectivity and quality of UFO research. The program includes lectures on various topics, such as the Geller Phenomenon, UFO research in other countries, UFO hypotheses from an engineer's perspective, computer research into the Spanish Wave of 1968/69, current UFO research in Belgium, and investigation techniques. Notable speakers include Professor John G. Taylor, Dr. Joachim P. Kuettner, Leonard G. Cramp, and Trevor Whitaker. The conference is open to both members and non-members, with registration fees covering refreshments. Special hotel accommodation rates are available.

Personal Column

This section features various notices. A skywatch caravan is available in Warminster from Easter to October. A house is for sale in Burgess Hill, Sussex. A holiday apartment in Villanueva, Spain, is offered at reduced rates to BUFORA members. The section also includes contact details for BUFORA's Personal Column advertisements.

People

This section welcomes new members to BUFORA, listing their names and addresses across London, Home Counties, National, and Overseas categories. This indicates a growing membership and geographical spread of the organization.

Books for Sale

A list of books related to UFOs is provided for sale, including "The UFO Experience" by Dr. Allen Hynek, "UFOs From Behind the Iron Curtain," "UFOs Here and Now" by Gosta Rehn, "Beyond Earth: Man's Contact with UFOs" by Ralph & Judy Blum, and "Invisible Residents" by Ivan Sanderson. Prices are listed, including postage and packing, and it's noted that over 100 UFO titles are in stock. Remittances should be sent to Lionel Beer.

Advertisements

Details for placing advertisements in the journal are provided, including rates for personal columns and display ads. Correspondence related to advertising should be sent to L. E. Beer, the Vice-Chairman.

Correspondence, Subscriptions, Publications Department, Librarian, Research Director, National Investigations Co-ordinator

Contact information is provided for various BUFORA departments, including Honorary Secretary Miss B. Wood, Subscription Secretary Mrs. A. Harcourt, Publications Department representative A. West, Librarian Captain E. A. I. Mackay, Research Director A. R. Pace, and National Investigations Co-ordinator K. Phillips.

BUFORA BRANCHES

Contact details for the BUFORA Yorkshire Branch (T. Whitaker) and Staffordshire Branch (P. Gregory) are listed, along with a note about member societies.

Burnett's Printing Works

Contact information for the printing company is provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH) as the primary explanation for UFO phenomena, advocating for a more open and scientific approach to investigation. There is a strong emphasis on the importance of witness experiences, even if they are not directly linked to alien spacecraft. The journal also promotes BUFORA's activities, including its upcoming conference and membership growth, and keeps readers informed about related research efforts like the Canadian CETI probe. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging rigorous, unbiased research into UFOs, moving beyond simplistic explanations and embracing a broader understanding of the phenomenon, potentially including psychic or cosmic influences.