BUFORA Journal - Volume 04 No 07 - May June 1975

Magazine Overview

Title: BUFORA JOURNAL
Issue: Volume 4 Number 7
Date: May/June 1975
Publisher: The British U.F.O. Research Association

This issue of the BUFORA Journal, published in May/June 1975, focuses on the organization's expanding research initiatives and ongoing investigations into UFO phenomena. The cover prominently features the headline "All-British IFO takes to the air" and an illustration of the Earth with a UFO, suggesting a focus on domestic UFO activity.

BUFORA Research Projects Programme

The "Research Department News" section, authored by Tony Pace (Research Director) and Charles Lockwood (Research Projects Officer), details Phase 2 of BUFORA's Research Projects Programme. This phase is designed to provide a more detailed framework for preliminary discussions at the National Conference in May. The programme outlines four key projects:

• PROJECT AUDI: Focuses on the study of UFO detection devices and the feasibility of developing an automatic detection instrumentation network. It calls for members with expertise in electronics, recording instruments, spectroscopy, or photography. Specific areas of study include magnetometers for low-frequency changes in magnetic fields, electrostatic voltage level measurement, infrasonic and ultrasonic measurement, and radiation measurement.
• PROJECT DATAVAL: Aims to conduct psychological and physiological studies to ascertain optimum procedures for obtaining high-validity data from witnesses. The project hopes to involve members qualified in hypnosis, as American data has shown the value of hypnosis in testing witness reliability. It will incorporate physiological reaction tests, skin resistance measurements, and polygraph tests, with results intended to modify sighting report forms and investigation procedures.
• PROJECT TRACE: Concentrates on environmental effects testing and the use of forensic techniques to detect and analyze trace residues and residual physical changes after a close encounter sighting. This project will explore alternatives to the Hooven magnetic signature test and investigate long-term or short-term changes in molecular lattices and affected objects.
• PROJECT PHOTON: Dedicated to the development of photographic and other procedures, such as stereo and cine photography, and the use of diffraction gratings, filters, and auto-exposure cameras. Members involved are likely to collaborate with amateur astronomers studying meteorites and bolides.

The general section emphasizes that the four research fields are guides, and projects may be subdivided based on expertise. It also highlights the need for Project Leaders with high academic qualifications and experience in the variety of UFO phenomena to ensure well-informed answers to relevant questions.

UFO Sightings Catalogue, 1974-part 2

This section presents a catalogue of UFO sightings recorded by the Association during the latter part of 1974. It lists 34 sightings with dates, times, locations, investigators, and evaluations, ranging from "Insufficient Data" and "Satellites" to "Possible Satellite," "Aircraft," "Ball Lightning," "Weather Balloon," "UFO," and "Probable Satellite." Some entries are marked as "under investigation."

Vice-Chairman's Column

In his "Vice-Chairman's Column," L.E. Beer addresses two main points:

• New perils from outer space: Beer clarifies his involvement with a "News of the World" article that discussed the potential dangers of communicating with aliens. He explains that he provided information about BUFORA and ufology to a writer, but the article misrepresented some details and abbreviated BUFORA's name. He notes that the concern about communicating with aliens is shared by some astronomers and exobiologists.
• Degrees in ufology: Responding to a suggestion that BUFORA sell degrees in ufology, Beer explains that this would face legal difficulties and damage the organization's reputation. He mentions that BUFORA has submitted proposals for a UFO studies syllabus to the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme.

Lev(it)y

This section discusses a letter received from DE & J Levy, offering 26,500 square feet of space at Centre Point for use as an educational establishment. The writer expresses hope that BUFORA might be able to utilize this space, and a member, Mrs. Dixon, has pledged to donate her lottery winnings to help fund such a move. The column also seeks suggestions for housing BUFORA's library in London.

Beware of Strangers!

A brief, amusing anecdote about an astronaut on an Apollo Lunar Mission is shared, highlighting a cautious interaction at the Lunar Module hatch.

IRA fought it out with a UFO

This article recounts a remarkable incident from 1922 during the Irish Civil War in County Donegal. A letter from Lawrence Bradley describes how soldiers, resting at the entrance of a cave, were awakened by a whirring noise. Mistaking it for an enemy armoured car, they opened fire. The object retaliated by firing jets of flame, causing the surrounding undergrowth to burn intensely and forcing the soldiers to withdraw to avoid suffocation. Upon emerging, they saw the flame-throwing object ascend into the sky; it was described as circular, bright, and made of aluminium. The article notes that the soldiers' conviction and the evidence of the scorched cave mouth supported the extraordinary account. The credit is given to the Dublin Evening Herald and Ken Phillips.

Personal Column

This section contains classified advertisements:

• A Charles Frank 4-inch reflecting telescope for sale.
• A Warminster sky watch caravan available for rent.
• A large semi-detached house for sale.

Association News

Compiled by Betty Wood, this section provides updates on BUFORA's activities:

• A busy winter: The Association has been busy with a large number of enquiries, registration as a limited company, and the Spring Conference. They are preparing a tentative list of speakers for future lectures and invite suggestions for new speakers and topics.
• Help!: Members are encouraged to send in UFO items from their local newspapers, as BUFORA's newscuttings agency may not cover all publications.
• O boyo!: The author expresses a feeling of occasional quietness in UFO activity but notes that Welsh TV recently sought a UFO witness in Pembrokeshire, which BUFORA was able to provide. They comment that regional TV seems more adept at covering such topics than London-based counterparts.
• From Bermuda to Witch Mountain: This part discusses attending a talk on the Bermuda Triangle mystery, noting the various theories, including 'Venusians' whisking people away. The author also reflects on a TV program about UFOs and mentions seeing the film "Escape to Witch Mountain."

UFORUM

This section features letters from readers:

• In defence of ETH: Stephen Cozens (aged 14) argues for the Extra-Terrestrial Hypothesis (ETH) as the main theory in ufology, believing it excites public interest and that refusing it could lead to a breakdown in the field.
• More on Nessie: Stuart Campbell from Edinburgh University UFO Research Society responds to a previous letter, refuting the idea of the Loch Ness Monster as a "thought entity" or serpent. He states that reports of landed UFOs at Loch Ness have been found to be false and suggests that adequate fish stocks exist to sustain a monster population, possibly descended from a pre-historic plesiosaur.
• Spinning UFOs-a problem: M.K. Howe discusses Mr. Rouse's theory about a gyroscope losing weight, calculating that a UFO would need to spin at an extremely high rate to become weightless, which could cause parts to detach.
• Is there an 'orgone cover-up'?: R. Jones Pugh MRCVS refers to a previous letter by Mr. Knights concerning Professor Reich's work and collaboration with Einstein on cosmic forces. He questions whether these experiments have been repeated or if the US Government is withholding findings.

Events Diary

This section lists upcoming events of interest to members, including lectures, conferences, and informal meetings, with dates, times, locations, and contact details. Events include talks on "The Wilder Shores of Ufology," "UFO Tracking and Rangefinding," a Research and Investigations Conference, and a lecture on "UFO Research in Britain."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of BUFORA Journal reflects a strong commitment to scientific investigation and data collection in ufology. The emphasis on structured research projects (AUDI, DATAVAL, TRACE, PHOTON) indicates a move towards a more rigorous and systematic approach to understanding UFO phenomena. The inclusion of a sightings catalogue and detailed reports, such as the "IRA fought it out with a UFO" incident, showcases the organization's dedication to documenting and analyzing evidence. The "UFORUM" section highlights ongoing debates within the ufological community, particularly regarding the Extra-Terrestrial Hypothesis (ETH) and the interpretation of various phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging member participation and the sharing of information, while also maintaining a critical perspective on unsubstantiated claims. The journal also addresses organizational matters, such as membership, potential office space, and the need for clear communication and accurate reporting, as seen in the Vice-Chairman's column.

This issue of the BUFORA Journal, dated April 1975, focuses on organisational developments, lecture summaries, and discussions on UFO phenomena. The cover headline highlights the appointment of new Liaison Officers to improve contact between BUFORA and local UFO groups. The journal also features articles debating the nature of UFOs, reviewing relevant literature, and offering advice on investigative practices.

New Liaison Officers Appointed

The National Executive Committee of BUFORA has approved the appointment of two Group Liaison Officers to establish, maintain, and improve relations with local UFO organisations across the country. Alan Fossey will cover the south of the UK, and Jeff Porter will cover the north. Fossey, a former 'pirate' DJ and current PO employee, views the role as essential and plans to act as a 'troubleshooter'. Porter, an engineer for Granada Television, will likely liaise with groups like the Northern UFO Network. The journal expresses hope that both officers will keep readers informed of their progress.

SIGAP and JC-B Rescue Lecture Programme

The journal reports on a recent BUFORA lecture that faced last-minute challenges. The scheduled speaker, Graham Knewstub, was unable to attend due to 'flu. SIGAP member and consultant Tim Childerhouse stepped in to speak on satellite identification. He raised concerns about Russian FOBS (Fragmentable Orbital Bomb Systems) satellites passing over London, suggesting they were armed. Dr John Cleary-Baker also spoke, warning against accepting desired information about UFOs and suggesting many sightings are manifestations of the mind. The meeting was chaired by BUFORA President Dr Doel.

Skywatch Date Fixed

National Skywatch Day is scheduled for Saturday, 28 June. This date is provisional and expected to be confirmed by NIC Ken Phillips at the May Conference. Further details can be obtained from Ken Phillips.

Lecture Summaries

This section provides summaries of recent lectures for members unable to attend in person.

Some Singular Cases by Lionel Beer (4 January 1975)

Lionel Beer's lecture focused on two types of UFO cases, primarily radar-visual cases from the 1950s. He detailed a sighting from 28 April 1967 in the Torbay area, where hundreds witnessed a huge cone-shaped object at high altitude. Local coastguards provided drawings, and the follow-up by authorities was noted, with the Ministry of Defence initially denying and then downplaying knowledge of the event. Beer suggested the object could have been a high-altitude weather balloon, especially after it was seen later over Cork and Shannon airfields. He argued that radar-visual cases are not treated in enough depth by BUFORA and similar organisations. He also discussed the Lakenheath sightings, deemed puzzling by the Condon Committee. Beer concluded by provocatively questioning whether recorded UFO feats are genuine or if radar returns are being modified to appear so.

Great Balls of Fire! by Norman Oliver (1 February 1975)

Norman Oliver, a last-minute replacement speaker, focused his lecture on contactee cases, believing investigators waste time on ordinary sightings and that contact cases offer a richer ground for solving the UFO riddle. He presented two USA cases, including one concerning strange balls of light seen over Brown Mountain, where an investigator named Ralph Layell claimed to have met humans from Venus who had fled their destroyed home planet, Pewan. Another case involved telepathic communications with 'small men from Planto', a twin earth supposedly hidden by a defence shield. Oliver presented arguments for and against these stories, questioning who is hoaxing: the contactee or the entity contacting them.

All British IFO Takes to the Air

A British-built 'flying saucer' named 'Skyship', 30ft in diameter and powered by eight engines, took to the air at Cardington on 17 April 1975. Designed by John West, it is a prototype for a larger 200ft vehicle capable of carrying six tons. The ultimate goal is a 700ft saucer with a 400-ton payload. The article questions if this is another terrestrial explanation or a deliberate attempt to distract from the true nature of UFOs.

UFOs or NIFOs* - Mr Burrows Defends His Position

This article addresses the possibility of UFOs of meteorological origin. The author, Mr Burrows, argues that vortices in the atmosphere can grow spontaneously and discusses phenomena like whirlwinds and waterspouts as examples of vortex activity. He also touches upon electrical discharges in the atmosphere, noting that they can occur even without cloud cover, potentially triggered by cosmic rays or terrestrial radiation. The article explains 'glow discharge' as a self-sustaining electric current in a gas with ions, noting that atmospheric discharges can be more powerful than laboratory ones and can result in various shapes like cigar-shaped or saucer-shaped due to electrical and magnetic fields.

Electrical Discharge

The author explains that electrical discharges in the atmosphere require specific conditions but can occur even with clear skies. High relative humidity can lead to charge build-up. Ionisation of air can happen at any time and be excited by various sources, including X-rays and gamma rays from outer space. A 'glow discharge' occurs when ions in a gas acquire enough velocity to cause further ionisation, creating a self-sustaining electric current. Atmospheric discharges can be significantly more powerful than laboratory ones, leading to different shapes and expansion of the ionised gas.

UFOs and NIFOs Continued

The article continues by discussing how atmospheric glow discharges can take various shapes (cigar, cup, saucer) due to electrical and magnetic fields. It advocates for systematic tests to determine the measurable mechanical and electrical characteristics of UFOs, noting that programmes for investigating upper atmosphere conditions using balloon-borne instruments are under consideration.

Review: UFOs Here and Now

This section reviews K Gösta Rehn's book 'UFOs Here and Now', recommending it for newcomers to ufology. The book covers various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, leans towards the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH), and summarises reports from the Condon Report. It analyses the ideas of figures like McDonald, Sagan, and Clarke, and discusses theories on UFO propulsion and their effects on people, including EM radiation and psychological impacts. BUFORA is mentioned as one of the groups involved in UFO research.

Using Publicity Effectively by Jenny Randles

Jenny Randles offers advice on investigative standards and publicity for UFO groups. She discusses a planned 'Publicity Week' coordinated by Ken Green of the Wirral UFO Society, aiming to issue press releases to national and local media to raise awareness and change public attitudes towards ufology. Groups are advised to be cautious of media sensationalism and to insist on publishing the initial letter. Randles stresses the importance of maintaining media contacts, as some stories may not be widely reported otherwise. She also advises investigators to maintain other contacts, including local police and weather bureaux, to gather comprehensive information, and suggests keeping records of satellite transit times to help solve some sightings.

Betty and Barney Hill - A Postscript

This section provides information for those interested in the Betty and Barney Hill case. The second part of a feature on the case will be published in a future issue. Readers can obtain the 'Proceedings of the 5th APRO UFO Symposium' for a more detailed account of Ms Fish's research, or request a photocopy of an article from the Newchapel Observatory.

Editor on Radio 'Phone-in'

BUFORA Journal editor Richard Beet was featured on the Radio London programme 'Get-away' for three consecutive weeks. He discussed the background of UFO phenomena, introduced BUFORA's work, and acted as a studio 'expert' answering listeners' questions on 'What to do, if you see a UFO'. The programme reportedly caused the switchboard to be jammed.

AGM Date to Change

The Annual General Meeting date has been rescheduled from October to December to aid BUFORA's transition to company status. The next AGM will be held on December 6th.

Chairman's Report 1974

Extracts from the Chairman's address at the Annual General Meeting on 5 October 1974, review the past year's activities and outline future trends. The report highlights the financial difficulties faced by the voluntary organisation due to rising costs, particularly printing and postage, which severely limits research and investigation activities. The Association is walking a 'financial tight-rope' and will need to increase subscription rates and focus on member recruitment and retention. The report praises Treasurer Arnold West for his management. It also notes the steady increase in membership, demonstrating that UFO waves are not always necessary for growth. The importance of financial and practical support for research and investigation is stressed, with a mention of the hard work of Anthony Pace and Charles Lockwood in developing a working group.

What They Say!

This section summarises news and comments from international UFO groups. Australia's UFOIC Newsletter reports on the Centre for UFO Studies, founded by Dr J Allen Hynek. Belgium's INFORESPACE journal is described as a polished publication in French. Denmark's UFO Aspect journal is also noted for its interesting articles and a photograph of imprints. The UK's SCAN Newsletter 3 covers a controversial 'Genuine flying saucer sighting' at Kinson, Bournemouth. A new northern organisation, the Northern UFO Network (NUFON), is introduced, which aims to unite various northern UFO groups. The 'Aims of BUFORA' are stated: to encourage unbiased scientific investigation, collect and disseminate evidence, and co-ordinate UFO research globally.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently promotes scientific investigation and a serious approach to ufology, as evidenced by the focus on BUFORA's organisational efforts, lecture summaries detailing case analyses, and the debate on meteorological versus unknown origins for UFOs. There is a clear emphasis on rigorous research, data collection, and maintaining contact with both the public and other research bodies. The editorial stance supports the work of BUFORA and its members, encouraging active participation and a proactive approach to publicity and investigation. The financial challenges faced by the organisation are also a recurring concern, highlighting the reliance on voluntary support and membership.

This issue of the BUFORA Journal, dated 1975, focuses on the organization's activities, research, and reported UFO sightings. The content includes a Chairman's Report, a section on 'Sighting Summaries' detailing various encounters, and updates on publicity and membership.

Chairman's Report

The Chairman's Report, presented by Roger H. Stanway, begins by acknowledging the ongoing research projects within BUFORA, including the preparation of an investigator's handbook. A significant point raised is the need for administrative headquarters and volunteer staff to support members who investigate cases. The report also touches upon the 'Journal', discussing the ongoing debate about whether it should be a scientific publication or maintain a more popular, literary style. The Chairman suggests the possibility of producing two separate publications: one for a wider audience and a specialist scientific journal for members.

Furthermore, the report expresses disappointment over the non-appearance of the 'Annual Proceedings' due to financial costs and difficulties in finding volunteers to transcribe lectures. The Chairman appeals for assistance for the upcoming lecture season.

Looking towards the future, the report highlights BUFORA's exciting and challenging prospects but acknowledges immediate problems. It notes a period of apparent quietness in UFO activity in Great Britain over the last 18 months, cautioning that this could be the calm before a storm. The report stresses the importance of preparing for potential publicity and presenting BUFORA as a serious scientific body to avoid being dismissed as a group of 'sky-watchers'.

The report concludes with sincere thanks to the Committee members, the President Dr Geoffrey Doel for his advice and support, and all members for their continued support and for listening.

Publicity and Membership

A section titled 'Publicity—new money allocation' reveals that BUFORA needs more scientists and plans to use a 'substantial' amount for additional advertising, particularly in 'New Scientist', to recruit new members. This initiative, combined with the May Conference, is hoped to yield positive results.

Sighting Summaries

This section presents a selection of UFO sightings from the Investigation Department Files:

• UFO stationary for two hours over Dagenham (75-007): On January 20, 1975, a man and wife witnessed a large, oval-shaped object hovering over their house for two hours. It changed color, emitted sparks, and eventually moved away. The object was described as bright on its fuzzy edges and even brighter in the center, with lights underneath that changed from white to blue to green to red.
• Domed object hovers over fields (75-009): On January 9, 1975, two sisters observed a large dome-shaped craft with a flat underside hovering over fields near Leek. The craft had internal lighting and two white lights and a pink/red one underneath.
• Independent verification near Cheddleton (75-010): On the same date, January 9, 1975, a plumber and his wife reported seeing an object of indiscernible shape moving through trees near Cheddleton. They noted three visible lights (two white and one red) that did not match aircraft lights. The object moved slowly and low to the ground.
• Loch Ness 'football' (73-085): On December 12, 1973, a former RAF Wing Commander witnessed a large red/orange football-shaped object travelling over hills near Drumnadrochit, Loch Ness, at an estimated speed of 200 mph. It was sharply outlined, with no halo, and made no sound.
• UFO crashes' in Norfolk (74-105): On August 19, 1974, four people fishing reported a bright round object passing overhead, followed by a yellow cone-shape that hovered. They observed a red underside and a blue-green top, with small bright objects moving towards the main object. One witness reported an object 'came down out of the main one,' and a local carpenter reported seeing a glowing ball crash into a field.
• Humanoids in Bedfordshire? (Uncoded): In February 1974, a witness and his friend reported seeing humanoid shapes near a power station in Dunstable. The shapes walked and crawled in a strange way, and one being appeared to look at the witness, its eyes glowing red, and emitted a beam of light.
• Low-flying LITS (73-082): On June 17, 1973, several witnesses, including BUFORA's National Investigations Co-ordinator, observed four white, star-like objects travelling at an estimated speed of one degree of arc per second. These objects flew below cloud layers, suggesting they were not satellites.
• Warminster explosions (73-083): Between May 30 and 02.30 on May 31, 1973, a health inspector and his cousin observed a light aircraft followed by five bright explosions in the sky. Three more objects then appeared, large with red lights, followed by a similar procedure, with windows connecting lights on some objects.

Directory of Members and Branches

The issue includes a list of new members admitted to BUFORA, categorized by location (London, Home Counties, National, Overseas). It also announces that the next issue's directory will be split into further categories for easier navigation. Contact information for various BUFORA departments (Advertisements, Correspondence, Subscriptions, Publications, Librarian, Research Director, National Investigations Co-ordinator, Group Liaison Officers) and BUFORA branches (Yorkshire, Staffordshire) is provided.

Advertisements

An advertisement for Charles Berlitz's book 'The Bermuda Triangle' is featured, describing it as a No1 National Bestseller that reviews disappearances and interviews escapees, offering explanations for the phenomenon. The book is illustrated with 24 black-and-white plates and costs £3.25.

Featured in your next Journal

Teasers for the next issue include articles on 'Zeppelins to UFOs—the Royal Observer Corps is still forearmed', a Conference Review, a new theory from Carol Godsell, and regular contributions such as the Vice-Chairman's Column, Research Department News, Events Diary, Sighting Summaries, and 'Uforum' (letters).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the operational aspects of BUFORA, including membership recruitment, the challenges of publishing and administrative tasks, and the ongoing investigation of UFO phenomena. There is a clear emphasis on the need for scientific rigor and credibility, as evidenced by the discussion on the Journal's style and the call for more scientific members. The editorial stance appears to be one of striving for professionalism and recognition within the scientific community, while also catering to a broader interest in the subject matter.