BUFORA Journal - Volume 09 No 03 - Nov 1980

Magazine Overview

Title: BUFORA JOURNAL
Issue: Volume 9, Number 3
Publication Date: November 1980
Publisher: British UFO Research Association
Editor: Norman Oliver

This issue of the BUFORA JOURNAL, published in November 1980, covers a range of topics related to UFO research, including organizational news, scientific discussions, and reader contributions. The cover prominently advertises an upcoming event: 'KEEP 24-25 MAY 1981 FREE', likely a conference or meeting, and also highlights a 'SPECIAL PRESIDENTIAL ANNOUNCEMENT' and the '2nd London International UFO Congress'. Images on the cover depict historical figures in UFO research, such as Dr. G. G. Doel and Dr. Richard Haines.

Key Announcements and Appointments

Presidential Announcement

A significant announcement is the appointment of Lord Kings Norton as the new President of the British UFO Research Association. Lord Kings Norton is described as a distinguished engineer and scientist with extensive experience in aeronautical advancement. His background includes numerous papers on aerodynamics, gas turbines, and civil aviation, as well as high-level positions in government scientific research bodies. His approach to the UFO enigma is noted as scientific, and his contribution to the House of Lords UFO Debate on January 18, 1979, is referenced. In that debate, he expressed certainty that most sightings are terrestrial misreports but acknowledged a small proportion of 'unidentifieds' that might not be terrestrial, though he leans towards astronomical phenomena rather than extraterrestrial craft.

UFO Research Fund Inaugurated in USA

The issue details the inauguration of the 'Fund for UFO Research' in the District of Columbia, USA, on August 1, 1979. This non-profit, scientific, and educational organization is financed by public contributions and aims to fund research projects that enhance scientific knowledge and public understanding of UFO phenomena. Proposals are reviewed by a 15-member National Board comprising scientists and specialists. The Fund supports high-quality scientific research and responsible public reporting, advocating for data-driven evaluation of theories rather than promoting any specific hypothesis. The article lists examples of research areas the Fund anticipates sponsoring, including physical evidence investigation, analysis of photographic and film evidence, statistical studies, psychological and sociological studies, legal efforts to obtain suppressed information, historical research, and public education projects.

Prestel Integration

BUFORA is noted to be providing ufological material to the Prestel viewdata system, enabling direct transmission of information to viewers' TV screens.

Editorial: 'We can, so why can't 'they'?'

In the editorial, Norman Oliver addresses the commitment of BUFORA to not adhering to any particular UFO hypothesis. He expresses a personal feeling that in recent years, many ufologists have unfairly excluded the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH) from their deliberations. Oliver questions the trend away from the ETH, suggesting it began about a decade ago when researchers, puzzled by the variety of UFO experiences, deemed the ETH non-viable. He challenges the common argument that UFOs are not detected by 24-hour radar, proposing three counter-arguments: why should such detection be public knowledge if it occurred, the limitations of 24-hour coverage, and the possibility that advanced craft could possess radar-evading technology. He asserts that such technology is now science fact and that extraterrestrial visitors would likely possess advanced technology.

Uforum: Reader Contributions

This section features letters from readers, offering diverse perspectives:

• P M H Edwards, PhD: Agrees with a previous editorial, quoting psychologists on the subconscious mind's tendency to explain away the unknown or invoke supernatural explanations for phenomena that defy known science. He criticizes the current trend of ufologists avoiding the ETH, likening it to self-destruction.
• Margaret E Fry: Expresses enjoyment of the journal and the belief that the universe is not empty, suggesting we are not alone.
• Gerard Butler: An engineer, finds the journal of great interest and praises the 'Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena' as having a high standard.
• P B Grant: Congratulates the editor on a previous editorial for not associating ETH adherents with cultists.
• Anonymous Reader: Discusses the importance of common terminology, definitions, and classifications for UFOlogy to be accepted as a scientific study. The reader emphasizes the need for high standards in data collection by UFO investigators, comparing it to building a house on weak foundations.
• Anthony Green (SKYSCAN): Argues that many researchers employ questionable methods and suggests that organizations like BUFORA should be more selective in choosing investigators. He calls for UFO research to mature from a hobby to a scientific discipline.
• Stuart Campbell: Responds to a previous editorial, stating that the results printed in Vol 9, No 1, were not what was asked for, with some being jokes. He criticizes the flippant attitudes of some contributors and emphasizes the difference between self-criticism and insincerity.

Kensington Lectures

Symposium on UFOs and Psychic Research (November 3, 1979)

This symposium, presided over by Captain Ivar Mackay, featured speakers Hilary Evans (SPR), Manfred Cassirer (SPR), Lawrence Dale (Bufora), and Norman Oliver (Bufora). The speakers agreed on the welcome development of co-operation between UFO and psychical research groups.

• Hilary Evans: Highlighted the common ground for parapsychologists and UFO investigators, noting that UFOs cannot be studied in isolation and that scientific circles might deny the existence of UFOs if they were widely regarded as tears shed by the Virgin Mary. He concluded that UFOs are real and behave in ways connected to the people who see them, suggesting a need to reconcile these two aspects.
• Larry Dale: Discussed the mind's capabilities in precognition and martial arts training. His main theme involved diagrammatical representations of dimensions, introducing a fourth factor 'Alpha,' potentially representing subconscious psychic realms. He suggested that if intelligent life exists in one domain, it might exist in another.
• Manfred Cassirer: Observed that few monographs from the 'senior discipline' (psychical research) evaluate common parameters, while disciples of the 'junior discipline' (UFO research) have been more adventurous but less knowledgeable. He cautioned against experts in other fields professing expertise in UFO research and compared the attitudes of UFO investigation bodies towards 'Flying Saucer Cults' with psychical researchers' attitudes towards 'Spiritualistic aspects,' attributing the difficulty scientists have in separating 'scholar' and 'cultist' to an 'absurdly obsequious defensive orientation.'
• Norman Oliver: Identified three categories of association between psychic phenomena and UFOs: shared psychic and UFO effects, UFO witnesses experiencing psychic events afterward, and UFO witnesses with psychic histories.

New thoughts on the ETH (December 8, 1979)

Wilfrid Grunau, BUFORA's Treasurer, presented a talk titled 'New thoughts on the ETH.' He posed questions about the reality and origin of UFOs, suggesting two possibilities: Earth-based or from Outer Space. He proposed a 'simple solution' of intelligent extraterrestrials predating humanity, termed 'Silicon Man,' who might have developed space travel early and possibly 'seeded' mankind. He speculated that such beings, whose atmosphere might be inimical to Earth's, might not overtly interfere but could use androids or robots for supervision. He also suggested that 'Silicon Man' might have transferred his planet to our solar system, possibly far beyond the known planets. Grunau posited that UFO events could be a ploy by 'Silicon Man' to confuse the issue until their existence is revealed. Questions from the audience included suggestions of extraterrestrial tourism and the possibility of Pluto being a candidate for such beings, with some dismissing the idea as 'sci-fi orientated.'

Extra-terrestrial Life (January 5, 1980)

Ian Ridpath, a writer and broadcaster, gave a lecture based on his book 'Messages from the Stars.' He stated that the possibility of extraterrestrial life has become scientifically respectable over the past 20 years due to the increasing likelihood of other planetary systems and the abundance of life-forming chemicals in space. Ridpath discussed the potential for life in our solar system:

• Mercury: Described as an airless body without water, with no chance of life.
• Venus: Characterized by a dense atmosphere of carbon dioxide and sulfuric acid clouds, trapping heat to a temperature of around 475°C, making life impossible.
• Earth: Noted for being mostly water, with an atmosphere that likely originated from volcanic exhalations. Life is believed to have originated in the seas and has existed for three-quarters of Earth's history.
• Mars: Possesses orange deserts and potential vegetation markings. It has a thin atmosphere, polar caps, large volcanoes, and dried-up river channels, suggesting past conditions might have supported life. However, the Viking probes in 1976 found no signs of vegetation or movement, and soil tests yielded inconclusive results.

Ridpath also noted that stars rarely form singly, often forming as double or triple systems with planets, and that the presence of liquid water likely leads to abundant life. Experiments with computer-generated planetary systems have produced results similar to our own solar system.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently promotes a scientific approach to UFO research, emphasizing the need for rigorous methodology, data analysis, and a critical evaluation of hypotheses. There is a clear tension between those who advocate for the ETH and those who are more skeptical or focus on terrestrial explanations. The editorial stance, as expressed by Norman Oliver, is open-minded but critical of trends that prematurely dismiss the ETH without thorough investigation. The journal also highlights the growing co-operation between different research organizations and the increasing scientific respectability of the study of extraterrestrial life.

This issue of the UFO Newsclipping Service, dated January 1980 (though the specific issue number is '9' and the cover headline is a promotional question), presents a collection of UFO reports and related articles. The publication aims to keep readers informed about worldwide UFO activity.

UFO Reports and Witness Accounts

The magazine features numerous detailed accounts of UFO sightings and encounters from various individuals and locations.

The Margaret Fry Case (Plumstead Common, London, July 17, 1978)

Investigator Margaret Fry shares details of an intriguing case involving a witness referred to as Mrs M. On a summer evening, Mrs M was on Plumstead Common with her daughters and dog when she saw an orange ball of light descend. Two small men, described as chauffeur-like, approached her. Simultaneously, she saw her deceased father sitting beside her. The men spoke in an unintelligible language, and Mrs M subsequently lost consciousness. She experienced a severe physical and mental reaction, including blindness for three months, a rash, and significant pain, requiring extensive hospital treatment. Her daughter J and she have since felt a 'presence' in their home, and other odd occurrences have been reported.

Miss J's Experiences (January 7, 1979)

Miss J reported a series of events beginning with a high-pitched humming sound. She observed a metallic egg-shaped object with an orange-red glow, described as 'almost like silver,' flying overhead. This was accompanied by a strange 'chemical' smell. Later, she saw a hovering halo-like glow with a sulphurous smell. The object's tube stretched towards her window, and she felt a strong force influencing her mind. Following this, appliances in her home activated inexplicably, and water ran uncontrollably.

Other Sightings

Several other brief reports detail various UFO encounters:

• Tunstall, Staffs (November 1978): Diane Brunt and a friend saw a flashing light that moved towards them, revealing a shape described as an 'upside-down bowl' with red and green lights underneath.
• Nr Chatham, Kent (April 1979): Stephen Pearl and his sister witnessed a large, saucer-like object, beige and white, spinning and pulsating, hovering above a house.
• Lowestoft, Suffolk (June 1979): Mrs Jennifer Hooks reported a strange shape, similar to a double-decker bus, bright orange with oval windows and flashing lights, hovering and vibrating.
• A45, Suffolk (July 1979): A witness saw an oval, white object with a black part at the front, flying very fast without sound.
• Peterborough, Cambridgeshire (September 1979): Mrs Etchells and her cousin saw a disc-shaped object change colour from white to orange, which then vanished, resulting in an apparent time lapse of almost an hour and a significant reduction in car fuel.
• Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs (September 1979): The Bentley family observed a metallic object described as 'wavering, flapping like a bird, drunk,' moving slowly and rotating.
• Harrogate, N Yorks (November 1979): A glowing, whitish-yellow fluorescent cylinder was seen hovering over various locations before landing in a field.
• Livingston, W Lothian (October 1979): Mary and Thomas Cuthbert saw a spherical object with a changing colour dome, appearing to have beams of light.
• Edinburgh, April 1980: Mr C Miller and family observed two unusual objects, one red changing to fluorescent white, and another spinning fluorescent light.

Related Articles and Publications

From Here -and there

This section reviews several UFO-related publications and news items:

• 'Probe' Magazine: The International UFO Reporter has ceased publication, and its subscribers are now receiving 'Probe,' a 36-page magazine covering various subjects including UFOs. It is described as having a 'popular' presentation with many photos.
• Journal UFO: An excellent Canadian publication that incorporates Canadian UFO Report, edited by David A Haisell.
• UFO 'Hang-up': A mention of the Russian attitude to flying saucers, noting that despite resistance from 'Pravda,' the mystery is irresistible, and a Moscow play titled 'NLO' (Russian initials for UFO) featured 'fringe' associations.
• 'Not Red Squares' apparently: An item referencing Michael Binyon's 'Moscow Diary' in The Times, discussing the Russian fascination with flying saucers and related phenomena.
• 'And another': A review of the second issue of a British journal called 'Probe' (published by Nufor Southwest), featuring articles on possible 'UFO nests' and other UFO investigations.
• UFO Crash and Alien body photos revealed: A press release from Dennis Pilichis of the UFO Information Network, Ohio, announcing the planned reveal of two photographs of dead alien bodies recovered from a UFO crash.
• Camera in Space: NASA has designated a modified Nikon F3 camera for use in its Space Shuttle Project for experiments in weightless conditions.
• 'A tangled web they weave': An account from Per Andersen, writing in UFO-NYT, about strange, sticky material that fell over West Jutland, described as 'light, thin fibrous threads.'

UFO Newsclipping Service Promotion

The issue includes a promotional section for the UFO Newsclipping Service, inviting readers to subscribe for monthly reports on UFO activity worldwide.

Donations Urgently Needed

A section appeals for donations for research costs or to form a small section in 1981 for members interested in ET possibilities and CE111 claims.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed reporting of UFO sightings and encounters, the investigation of unexplained phenomena, and the dissemination of information about UFO-related publications and news. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into UFO phenomena, presenting witness accounts and reports without overt skepticism, while also acknowledging the broader context of UFO interest in media and culture. The inclusion of various investigative bodies and publications suggests a network of individuals and organizations dedicated to studying these events.

Title: Flying Saucer Review
Issue: Volume 26, No. 1
Date: 1980
Publisher: Flying Saucer Review
Country: UK
Price: £0.75
Cover Headline: Messengers from the Stars

Content Summary

This issue of Flying Saucer Review, dated 1980, features a prominent article titled "Messengers from the Stars" by W Raymond Drake, exploring the hypothesis that ancient myths and texts across various cultures describe extraterrestrial visitations. The magazine also includes a detailed analysis of a "spider web"-like substance, reports on UFO investigations and criticisms of other UFO organizations, and a comprehensive list of UFO sighting summaries.

Messengers from the Stars

W Raymond Drake's extensive article posits that numerous ancient cultures interpreted celestial visitors as gods or divine beings. The text draws parallels between modern UFO phenomena and ancient legends:

• Ancient Texts: The article references the Rig Veda (India), the Ramayana, the Mahabharata, and the Samaranganasutradhara, which describe aerial battles, flying machines, and celestial chariots. It also discusses Tibetan beliefs about 'Lhas' (Spirits from Space) and Chinese legends of the Celestial Dragon. Egyptian mythology, including the gods Osiris and Isis, and the concept of the Eye of Horus, are linked to aerial technology. The Great Pyramid's construction is suggested to be the work of 'Spacemen' or initiates. Babylonian myths, such as the story of Oannes, are also interpreted through an extraterrestrial lens. The New English Bible's translation of "Sons of the Gods" in Genesis is highlighted as suggesting Spacemen.
• Cultural Parallels: Legends from Native American tribes (Chippewas, Navajos, Piutes, Hopi) describe 'Golden Strangers' or 'Gin-Gwins' descending from the skies. Japanese traditions speak of the Emperor as a descendant of a celestial ancestor who arrived in a 'Heavenly Rockboat.' The biblical accounts of Abraham and Lot encountering 'Angels' and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah are re-examined, with the 'Lord' and 'Angels' potentially being extraterrestrials. The burning bush seen by Moses and the pillar of cloud and fire guiding the Israelites are also interpreted as spaceship phenomena.
• Specific Incidents: The article mentions the 1959 New Guinea incident where Reverend William Booth Gill observed a large disc with figures on deck. It also references the biblical story of Elijah being translated to heaven in a whirlwind, now considered a spaceship.

SUFOI and the Livingston Case

The magazine reports on a controversy involving SUFOI (Scandinavian UFO Information) and the APRO (Aerial Phenomena Research Organization). SUFOI, represented by Ole Knudsen and Per Andersen, investigated a substance suggested to be 'spiders' webs' or UFO material. Tests indicated an animal protein composition, likely spiders' web. However, Ole Knudsen was reportedly quoted prematurely, leading to criticism. The article criticizes APRO for condemning Stuart Campbell's investigation of the Livingston case based solely on press reports, suggesting APRO was biased by the press's use of the term 'creatures' for the entities involved.

Mute Evidence Required

Tommy R Blann, a US paranormal investigator, is seeking information from anyone who has investigated or has details on animal mutilation reports in his country, as well as phenomena related to 'mutes' and landing trace cases. His contact information is provided for scientific and analytical data exchange.

Sighting Summaries

Pages 6 through 9 contain extensive tables listing UFO sightings from 1926 to 1979. Each entry includes a code number, date, time, place, a brief report of the sighting (e.g., shape, color, behavior), and the investigator or credit. The descriptions range from '5' Blue bullets' and 'Violet/green cigar' to more detailed accounts of 'Humming white oval' and 'Circular object with windows.' This section serves as a catalog of reported aerial phenomena over several decades.

2nd London International UFO Congress

An announcement details the upcoming 2nd London International UFO Congress, scheduled for May 24-25, 1981, at the Mount Royal Hotel, London. The event follows a successful first congress in 1979 and will feature a panel of eminent speakers from the US and Europe, including Dr Bruce S Maccabee and Dr Alain Esterle. Lord Kings Norton, president of Bufora, is expected to open the congress. The proceedings will include updates on the Provisional International Committee on UFO Research and an exhibition of UFO research material. Special arrangements for combined rail/hotel packages are being offered.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the potential extraterrestrial origins of ancient myths and legends, the detailed reporting and investigation of UFO sightings, and the organization of international UFO research conferences. The magazine's stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging thorough research and questioning premature conclusions, while also promoting the idea that UFO phenomena may be linked to ancient history and potentially extraterrestrial intelligence. There is a clear emphasis on cataloging sightings and fostering a scientific approach to the subject, as evidenced by the extensive sighting summaries and the announcement of the UFO Congress.

This issue of the magazine, dated June 1980, presents a collection of book reviews, announcements, and personal columns related to UFO research and paranormal phenomena. The publication appears to be a UK-based journal focused on ufology, with a strong emphasis on scientific research and investigation.

Book Reviews

Signs of the Gods?

This review discusses Erich von Daniken's latest book, published by Souvenir Press in June 1980. The reviewer notes the book's controversial nature and quotes a positive review from Time Out magazine, while also acknowledging that many may disagree with von Daniken's assessments. The book is described as a mixture of familiar material, such as the chapter on the Ark of the Covenant, and new content concerning Malta and Zimbabwe, with intriguing ideas on racial origins and cloning. Despite potential criticisms, the reviewer predicts the book will be a bestseller, stating, "If precedent is anything to go by, though, it is sure to sell a bomb!"

Alien Animals

Reviewed are 'Alien Animals' by Janet & Colin Bord, published by Granada Publishing in March 1980. The authors define the book as being about "impossibilities," containing reports of unidentifiable animals and known animals in unusual locations worldwide. Discussed creatures include Lake Monsters, Bigfoot, Large Black Dogs, Giant Birds/Birdmen, and Hairy Anthropoids. The reviewer finds the book to be meticulously prepared, with numerous diagrams, drawings, and photographs, and notes that UFO associations are also considered. The book is highly recommended for its readable content and factual presentation.

Genesis

This review covers W A Harbinson's novel 'Genesis,' published by Corgi Books in October 1980. The reviewer likens it to 'Alternative Three,' questioning whether it presents fiction as fact. The novel is described as having a plot that intertwines facts and fiction, with the author's research into UFOs and Fortean phenomena being extensive and accurate. The plot is complex, featuring elements like Men In Black, the CIA, Ruppelt, McDonald, Klass, and the Philadelphia Experiment. The reviewer's main criticism is that the 'solution' to the mystery is not dramatic enough for the lengthy build-up, and that the inclusion of sex and explicit language did not seem to fit well with the scientific material. The reviewer concludes, "If Genesis is ever made into a film, it will be Exodus for me!"

Astronauts of Ancient Japan

Authored by Vaughn M Greene and published by Prentice/Hall International in July 1980, this book is described as "Dogu-orientated." Despite its relatively small size (164 pages), it is packed with information. The reviewer expresses reservations about some of the author's conclusions, such as the idea that Hiroshima and Nagasaki might have been chosen as atomic targets to smear Christianity. However, the book is acknowledged for its wide-ranging research and interesting content. The review explains that "Dogus" are ancient Japanese figures that the author believes are representations of ancient astronauts' space suits. The book includes photographs and diagrams, such as a "Dogu Mark V model space-suit."

Observing UFOs-An Investigative Handbook

Richard F Haines' book, published by Nelson-Hall in March 1980, is reviewed. Dr. Haines, a psychologist, is noted for his insistence on interdisciplinary measures for studying UFO phenomena. The book is a comprehensive guidebook covering physiological and psychological aspects of observation, demonstrating how observers can distort what they see and how investigators can compound errors. It is praised as a serious and valuable contribution to scientific UFO research, being readable for the layman. The book includes over 70 figures and tables, a comprehensive index, a bibliography, and a 20-page glossary. The reviewer mentions a minor point of contention regarding an outdated address for Bufora.

Personal Column

The "Personal Column" section features various notices:

• A 37-year-old New Zealand ufologist seeks correspondence with English individuals interested in UFO activity.
• A holiday chalet in Nolton Haven, Pembrokeshire, Wales, is advertised for rent.
• An advertisement for quality cameras, lenses, and accessories is available, with details provided upon sending an SAE.
• RAPPORT, an introduction service for making new friendships and organizing informal gatherings, is promoted.
• The Christian UFO Research Association (CHRUFORA) offers assistance and invites enquiries.
• Simon Battman offers framed pictures, some of which are not UFO-associated.
• The Warminster Ley and UFO Centre offers accommodation for UFO researchers and ley hunters.
• An advertisement seeks individuals interested in contact ideas, research, and original approaches.

Kensington Lectures 1980/81

Details are provided for the remainder of the Kensington Lectures series from December 1980 onwards. Meetings are held on the first Saturday of each month at Kensington Central Library, London W8. Scheduled talks include "Odd Encounters of a Curious Kind," "Life on Earth—a fluke?", "The Entity Enigma," a Research Evening, "UFOs without Prejudice," "The Janos People: A Close Encounter of the Fourth Kind," and "What does it all mean?"

Investigator Training Course

An experimental one-day training seminar for UFO investigators is announced, to be held at Bromley (Kent) Central Library on Saturday, December 13, 1980. The seminar is open to all Bufora members, with plans for similar sessions in other parts of the country. Participants will receive an ID card marked "In Training," with a full official card issued upon satisfactory completion. The course aims to provide a basis for interviewing witnesses and using standard data recording methods. Bufora's Chairman, Leslie Bayer, MBE, will open the proceedings, with speakers including Vice-Chairman Norman Oliver.

People

A list of new members approved by Bufora Council at meetings in February, April, and June 1980 is provided, categorized by location: London, Home Counties, National, and Overseas. The member society SKYSCAN is also listed.

Books and Leaflets

A price list for various books and leaflets published by Bufora is presented. Titles include "An Engineer's Look at UFOs," "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," "Guide to the UFO Phenomenon," "Investigation Procedures," and "The Use of Analytical Instruments in the Search for Extra-terrestrial Spacecraft." The "Investigators Handbook" and "1976 Conference Proceedings" are also available, along with the "Bufora Journal." All publications can be ordered from Tony Pace at Newchapel Observatory.

The British UFO Research Association (Bufora)

Information about Bufora is provided, including its founding in 1964, registered office, and aims: to encourage, promote, and conduct unbiased scientific research of UFO phenomena in the UK, collect and disseminate UFO evidence, and co-ordinate UFO research. Membership details are given, with annual subscriptions set at £5.00 in the UK and $12 in the USA and Canada. Applications are approved by the Executive Council.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFOs, ancient astronauts, unexplained phenomena, and the methodology of UFO research. The magazine appears to adopt a stance that encourages serious, scientific investigation into these subjects, as evidenced by the detailed reviews of research-oriented books and the announcements of training courses and lectures. There is a clear emphasis on providing resources for investigators and fostering a community of researchers.