BUFORA Journal - Volume 05 No 02 - July August 1976

Magazine Overview

Title: BUFORA JOURNAL
Issue: Vol 5 No 2
Date: July/August 1976
Publisher: British UFO Research Association (BUFORA)
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

This issue of the BUFORA JOURNAL provides a comprehensive look at UFO research and related activities in the UK and internationally. It features a detailed report on a significant sighting in Redditch, discusses the theoretical frameworks used by BUFORA for analyzing UFO reports, and highlights collaborative efforts with other organizations.

Key Articles and Features

The Redditch Sighting

The cover story details a UFO sighting that occurred on December 19, 1975, near Redditch, Worcestershire. Paul S Felton, a 20-year-old press photographer, was driving when he observed a dark, discoid object moving slowly. He stopped to take photographs with his Nikon F camera. Felton described the object as unfamiliar in shape, solid, metallic, silent, and moving at high speed. He estimated its size to be that of a three-inch diameter circle at arm's length. The object disappeared rapidly, leaving Felton uncertain if it flew away at high speed or dematerialized. The observation lasted between 1.5 and 2 minutes. A diagram illustrating the area of the sighting is referenced on the front cover.

UFO Hypotheses

Under the "Research News" section, BUFORA outlines its working hypotheses for classifying UFO reports. These seven hypotheses range from simple misidentifications of natural or man-made objects, hoaxes, and natural events, to more complex explanations involving mental projections, advanced alien technologies from other universes or dimensions, and intelligent processes beyond our known space-time continuum. BUFORA acknowledges that while many members are interested in extraterrestrial origins (hypothesis 6a), the research department welcomes constructive input on all hypotheses. Charles Lockwood, the Research Projects Officer, is seeking comments and researchers to compile a register of specialists.

BUFORA and Contact UK Collaboration

The issue reports on the second meeting between BUFORA's research department and Contact UK's Data-Research team, held on March 28, 1976, at Newchapel Observatory. The meeting was described as friendly, fruitful, and productive, with both organizations recognizing the benefits of cooperation for ufology in the UK. Clear understanding has been reached on investigation work, reducing the likelihood of overlap and paving the way for joint research projects. The principles of each other's research systems are now known.

Research News and Projects

Further research news includes updates on BUFORA's efforts to collect new cases, including sending circular letters to global UFO organizations and searching BUFORA's library. The process of classifying sighting reports into four categories based on data quality and strangeness is underway, with data transfer to the UFO Center in the USA planned for mid-July. The UFO sighting analysis cards are expected from the printers soon.

Work of the Center for UFO Studies

Details are provided about the Center for UFO Studies' first scientific conference (April 30 - May 2). Dr. J. Allan Hynek emphasized the need for participants with a serious record of work and an open-minded scientific attitude, moving away from "free-for-all" conventions. Several short papers were presented, and copies are available for purchase. The Center plans to release an updated version of the Traces Catalogue and a catalogue on Humanoids by Ted Bloecher later in 1976. A report on the Delphos, Kansas case is also in preparation.

Skywatch Twenty-Three

This section presents a detailed report from John Cree of the Nottingham UFO Investigation Society, detailing a skywatch conducted on July 5-6, 1975. Despite having only seven members, they covered a significant portion of the night. The report includes a log of observations, noting a quiet night with only a slow-moving satellite and two loud "explosions" (later identified as a malfunctioning bird-scaring device). The report also includes appendices explaining the Beaufort Wind Scale, Visibility Code, Cloud Classification, and NUFOIS Present Weather Code. Meteorological and background radiation data are also provided.

Response-20%

This article analyzes the results of a questionnaire sent to BUFORA members, with only about 20% responding. The findings indicate that while a majority were happy with the journal's content, a significant portion desired more technical material. Members also expressed a desire for more detailed sightings, research articles, and less focus on "Bufora politics." The majority stated they would retain their membership even if the journal's format changed.

Uforum

This section features a statement from Rene Fouere, President of GEPA, refuting remarks made by "Mr Bryan Jeffery" in a previous issue regarding GEPA and other groups. Fouere asserts GEPA's seriousness and prudence, disputing the qualifications of a young student in psycho-sociology to comment on lectures.

Phenomena of Earth and Sky

This brief notice announces an exhibition of Peruvian Ground Drawings at the Dorman Museum in Middlesbrough from August 4-18, 1976, coinciding with a one-day seminar on "Phenomena of Earth and Sky" on Saturday, August 7.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The BUFORA JOURNAL consistently promotes unbiased scientific research and investigation into UFO phenomena. The editorial stance, as expressed by Norman Oliver, is one of open inquiry, encouraging members to contribute and share their findings. The journal serves as a platform for disseminating research, discussing hypotheses, and fostering collaboration among UFO researchers and organizations. There is a clear effort to balance general interest with more technical aspects of ufology, while also addressing organizational matters and member feedback.

Title: Uforum
Issue: 9
Volume: 4
Date: March/April Journal (interpreted as 1977)
Publisher: Bufora Ltd.
Country: UK
Language: English

This issue of Uforum, a publication by Bufora Ltd., delves into various aspects of ufology, featuring reader letters, case summaries, and articles exploring the intersection of folklore and UFO phenomena. The cover highlights an article on 'UFOs: Local History and the 'Kingdom of the Elves.''

Reader Letters and Commentary

The issue opens with a letter from Graham Knights (Norwich) responding to a previous Journal entry about UFO hostility. Knights disputes the claim that a young girl in Oklahoma was intentionally injured by UFO occupants, suggesting the burns could have resulted from standing beneath the craft's exhaust as it took off. He emphasizes the lack of direct evidence for an attack.

Lawrence Dale (Orpington), writing as RIC (Regional Investigator Coordinator), addresses Jenny Randles' article on 'Controversy! The future of British Ufology.' While agreeing with some points, Dale disagrees with reducing RIC areas using non-members. He proposes that RICs should organize investigators and meet annually to discuss methods. Dale stresses the importance of logical methods, constructive objections, and collaborative progress in ufology, suggesting that the focus should be on solving the puzzle rather than on who leads the effort.

Stephen McCarten (Garston) responds to a description of ufologists as lacking 'little purpose and little ability.' He questions the criteria for assessing ufologists and argues that the implementation of research programs is dependent on human factors like memory and veracity. McCarten highlights the fundamental challenge: 'we ain't got a UFO to examine!' He notes that while the effects of UFO proximity on cattle can be evaluated, human witness accounts are inherently subjective.

R Jones-Pugh (Haverfordwest) also comments on the subjective nature of evidence, stating that until direct physical contact is made, criteria used reflect the witness's veracity and intellectual capacity.

UFOs: Local History and the 'Kingdom of the Elves.'

This feature article by Gay Mosley, Part One, explores the connection between folklore and UFO sightings. It presents historical accounts from Orkney and Shetland, such as two men encountering 'girls' in white dresses who seemed insubstantial, and a bright star-like object from which a voice spoke. Mosley argues that folklore often displays distinct ufological elements and suggests that a concerted effort to study local history and folklore could reveal patterns of UFO activity.

The article draws parallels between these accounts and beings described in folklore as 'brownies, hobgoblins, elves,' and mentions the Bebedouro entities and Itaperuna creature. It notes that descriptions of these beings have evolved from human-sized to smaller, shaggy forms, sometimes with grotesque features. A recent example cited is the Garston creature from 1951, described as a large, ape-like being.

The article encourages readers to investigate their own localities and send findings to the editor. It also mentions the availability of UFO photos from the DPRG film and photo library.

Personal Column

The 'Personal column' section provides information for researchers. It promotes the 'UFO Research Newsletter,' which focuses on research rather than sightings. It also includes requests for specific books, such as 'Secret of the Saucers' by Orfeo Angelucci, and provides contact details for various services and groups, including biofeedback units, the Warminster Skywatch Caravan, and a potential small UFO group in Suffolk and Norfolk for individuals aged 18-25.

Sighting Summaries

This section details several reported UFO sightings:

• Ruislip, Middlesex (August 1966): An ambulance man and four American friends witnessed a large, roundish, blue-grey object hovering at six inches. The object caused slight headaches, made cows lie down, and stopped watches. After a loud roar and flash, it accelerated away. Four American MPs arrived and warned the witnesses not to speak about the incident.
• Pathfinder Village, Exeter (June 1973): A 74-year-old retired engineer saw a light buff-coloured object travelling west at treetop level. It emitted a 'shushing' noise and a blast of hot air before shooting upwards and disappearing.
• Richmond Park, Surrey (August 1975): Two young mothers reported a silver-coloured object appearing near a Jumbo Jet. The object caused them to feel strange, with popped ears and shivering.
• Kensington, London (January 1976): Three witnesses saw stationary lights in the sky, which then moved, dimmed, and emitted a pale beam of light before disappearing.
• Crowborough, E Sussex (March 1976): A couple saw two bright white lights and a smaller red one that appeared to be pacing their car. The experience caused them to feel strange, with popped ears and shivering.

Belfast Contact Claim

Miles Johnstone and John Hinde are investigating a case in Belfast where Mrs Hamilton claims she was instantly transported from her bedroom to a spacecraft in 1972, crewed by velvet-skinned aliens. Contacts are reportedly ongoing, with the possibility of obtaining photographic evidence.

Candidate for ufology?

This short piece discusses US Presidential candidate Jimmy Carter's statement that he has seen a UFO and would make all government information available if elected. The author humorously suggests Carter could assist Dr. Hynek at the UFO Center if his presidential bid fails.

People

This section welcomes new members to Bufora from London, Home Counties, National, and Overseas.

Books and Leaflets published by Bufora Ltd.

A list of publications available from Bufora Ltd. is provided, including titles like 'A Challenge to Science,' 'UFO's Unidentified Undeniable,' 'Guide to the UFO Phenomenon,' and 'The Use of Analytical Instruments in the Search for Extra-terrestrial Spacecraft.' Contact details for ordering are given.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the critical examination of UFO evidence, the importance of rigorous research methods, and the exploration of potential connections between folklore and UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to favor open discussion and collaborative research within the ufological community, encouraging members to share their findings and methods. There is a clear emphasis on evidence-based analysis and a healthy skepticism towards sensational claims, as seen in the letters addressing UFO hostility and the subjective nature of witness testimony. The magazine also aims to keep its readership informed about ongoing investigations, new publications, and relevant public figures' opinions on UFOs.