JTAP - Vol 3 No 3 - Oct 1984

Magazine Overview

Title: The Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena
Issue: Vol. 3 No. 3
Date: October, 1984
Publisher: The British Unidentified Flying Object Research Association Ltd.
ISSN: 0143-8840

This issue of The Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena is dedicated to the scientific study of unusual aerial phenomena. It features a significant article by Ali F. Abutaha titled "Solar and Extrasolar Life - A New Hypothesis", presented in two parts, with this issue containing "Part 2". The journal is published by BUFORA Ltd. and includes editorial board and consultant information, as well as details on membership and advertising rates.

Article: Solar and Extrasolar Life - A New Hypothesis (Part 2)

Author: Ali F. Abutaha
Background: The author is a Senior Consultant in communication satellite systems, with previous roles including Director at COMTECH Laboratories and Vice President at AEGIS Inc. This paper was presented at BUFORA's 3rd International Congress in August 1983.

Introduction to the Hypothesis

Abutaha introduces a hypothesis concerning the possible existence of life on the Sun and other stars. He acknowledges that the idea sounds "bizarre and nonsensical" but asserts that it is a rational consequence of the current state of knowledge, based on extensive study. The hypothesis challenges existing knowledge in sciences and arts, and common sense, suggesting that humanity is ready to comprehend and potentially cope with such a reality if true, with profound implications.

Section 6: The Convection Zone of the Sun

The article delves into the convection zone of the Sun, emphasizing its importance for the development and evolution of life by providing a medium for mixing and combining elements into molecules. Solar phenomena are complex and observations from a distance can be suspect.

#### 6.1. Size

The convection zone's size is estimated to be approximately 97,000 kilometers thick, based on a change in gas properties at about 0.86R. The size, combined with matter density, significantly alters matter's behavior due to high pressure.

#### 6.2. Temperature

Solar temperature distribution is described as unusual, with temperatures increasing outward from the core and reaching a minimum at the top of the convection zone. Temperatures in the photosphere are approximately 6,000°K, and in sunspots, around 4,000°K. A dark sunspot measured 3,700°K. The difference is attributed to intense magnetic fields in sunspots, which impose order and have a cooling effect. The minimum temperatures are high enough to melt, boil, and evaporate most Earth substances, breaking down molecular and atomic bonds.

#### 6.3. Density

Contrary to the impression of a tenuous gas ball, the Sun's interior regions show increasing density. The core is estimated at 160 gm/cm³, while the Sun's average density is about 1.4 gm/cm³. In the upper layers of the convection zone, density is very low, around 4x10⁻⁷ gm/cm³ in the photosphere. However, intense pressures are expected in the lower regions of the convection zone due to solar gravity and density, which is considered a key factor for a potential solar biosphere.

#### 6.4. Sunspots and Magnetic Fields

Sunspots are characterized by strong magnetic fields and lower temperatures. The article notes that the strength of these fields is related to the size of the spots, with umbra regions having fields of approximately 4,000 gauss. Localized and strong fields have been observed outside sunspot regions. These dynamic activities, including matter flow below and above the surface, suggest that magnetic fields extend into the convection zone. The differential motion theory is proposed as the most attractive explanation for the origin of these intense magnetic fields, where a frozen-in longitudinal magnetic-field line is wound-up by the Sun's differential rotation and convective motion.

Key aspects for a solar biosphere include:
1. Intense magnetic fields (around 4,000 gauss) in the convection zone.
2. Magnetic fields originating, developing, and propagating within the convection zone.

These strong magnetic fields play a role in reducing the "entropy" of solar material, allowing for the formation of simple and complex molecules.

#### 6.5. Solar Hydrodynamics

The hydrodynamic flow of matter is essential for life. The Sun's surface exhibits dynamic activities, including vortical motion in sunspots, vertical currents, and granulation. These phenomena resemble atmospheric oceans on Earth, with large cells of matter rising, radiating heat, condensing, and sinking. These convective cells are compared to thunderstorms and cumulus clouds. The hydrodynamic activities extend into the ionized chromosphere and corona, where material can be ejected and sometimes rain back down.

#### 6.6. Abundance of Elements

The Sun is primarily composed of hydrogen (75%) and helium (23%), making up 98% of its mass. Essential elements for life like carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen constitute about 12% of the solar material. Other elements like calcium, potassium, sulfur, magnesium, and iron are also present.

Section 7: Solar Biosphere

Life on Earth is concentrated in a thin biosphere. The prevailing conditions on Earth allowed for the formation of a global "Darwinian pond" and the development of life, particularly through the formation of water. The Sun's convection zone is described as a "solar mixing bowl" with the presence of hydrogen and oxygen atoms suggesting the possible formation of water molecules. The abundance of life's basic elements further supports this possibility. However, the intense solar temperatures pose a significant challenge. The article questions whether mechanisms exist in the Sun to allow for the formation and maintenance of liquid water, analogous to Earth's oceans, which would be crucial for the development and evolution of solar life.

States of Matter and Solar Conditions

The article discusses the three states of matter (solid, liquid, gas/plasma) and how temperature, pressure, and density influence them. It explains how water changes state and how its boiling point is affected by pressure. The possibility of liquid water existing in the Sun's convection zone is explored, considering the immense pressures and temperatures. The article notes that while terrestrial water boils at 100°C at sea level, it boils at higher temperatures under increased pressure, as in a pressure cooker. It posits that if sufficient pressure exists in the solar convection zone, water could potentially exist in a liquid state at temperatures that would otherwise cause it to vaporize or dissociate.

Conclusion of the Hypothesis

Despite the seemingly prohibitive temperatures, the combined conditions of pressure, density, magnetic fields, and gravity in the Sun's convection zone might allow for the formation of molecular structures and potentially life. The initial stages, such as the formation of simple molecular structures (e.g., CN, CH, C₂, NH, OH), have already been experimentally proven. The article suggests that the processes leading to the formation of life on the Sun will be discussed in subsequent sections.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes a speculative yet scientifically grounded approach to understanding unusual phenomena, particularly extraterrestrial life. The article by Ali F. Abutaha exemplifies this by proposing a radical hypothesis about life on the Sun, supported by detailed analysis of solar physics. The journal's stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unconventional scientific ideas, encouraging contributions from various sources and presenting them for consideration, while also maintaining a disclaimer that contributors' views do not necessarily reflect those of the Editorial Board. The focus on "unusual aerial phenomena" and the publication by a UFO research association suggest a leaning towards topics that challenge mainstream scientific consensus, but with an effort to apply scientific methodology and analysis.

Title: THE JOURNAL OF TRANSIENT AERIAL PHENOMENA
Issue: Vol. 3, No. 3
Date: October, 1984
Publisher: THE JOURNAL OF TRANSIENT AERIAL PHENOMENA
Country: USA
Language: English
ISSN: 0742-2002

This issue of the journal features several in-depth articles exploring unconventional theories related to atmospheric phenomena, planetary science, and the nature of UFOs.

Solar Water: Heavy, Hot and Glowing

This article posits the existence of "solar water" within the Sun, suggesting that under the immense pressures and temperatures of the solar convection zone, water could exist in a liquid state. The author argues that while solar substances would be similar to terrestrial ones, their properties would differ due to the extreme conditions. The article illustrates the states of water (ice, liquid, vapor, free radicals, neutral atoms, plasma) under varying temperatures and pressures, comparing familiar ice and liquid water at 100°C and 1 atm with hypothetical states at 2,000°C and very large atmospheric pressure. At these high temperatures, solar water would be "heavy, hot, glowing, and molten like." The author also touches upon the formation of other molecules like carbon dioxide and methane within the Sun. The article acknowledges potential errors in estimating solar convection zone size and density, but maintains that significant atmospheric pressures could allow for liquid water. It suggests that chemical and biological processes within the Sun might be analogous, though not identical, to terrestrial ones. The internal energy of solar substances is proposed to be much higher than their terrestrial counterparts, allowing electrons to jump energy levels more easily, leading to absorption or release of energy and causing the glow observed. The color of this glow is dependent on temperature, ranging from red at 2,000°C to blue at 20,000°C. At extremely high solar pressures, atoms would rearrange into a more compact, denser configuration. The article also discusses the possibility of a "solid inner Sun," citing variations in solar rotational speed and angular momentum as potential evidence. It references scientific studies and measurements, including Dicke's findings on solar oblateness, to support the speculation of a rapidly rotating solar core.

Jupiter and the Natural Theory of UFOs (Part 2)

This article, by Steuart Campbell, continues the exploration of a naturalistic explanation for UFOs, focusing on Jupiter's magnetic field as a potential mechanism. The author revisits his earlier theory that UFOs might be a form of ball lightning (BL) with an equatorial flange, but now dismisses the Earth's magnetic field as too weak to influence its shape. Instead, he proposes that Jupiter's magnetosphere, described as a "magnetodisc" extending up to 100 Jupiter radii and rotating with the planet, provides a more fitting model. This discoid shape is attributed to trapped charged particles being forced outwards by centrifugal force. The article suggests that if UFOs are indeed ball lightning, they would likely contain charged particles and a rapidly rotating electromagnetic field. The expulsion of ions from the ball lightning, influenced by its magnetic field, could create a discoid shape. The author notes that while Jupiter's magnetosphere is invisible, BL's might become visible under certain circumstances, revealing its discoid form. The article then discusses an observed discoid UFO, photographed by Almiro Barauna in 1958 near Trindade Island, Brazil. The object, described as dark grey and bright, with holes, was estimated to be 37 meters in diameter and traveled at over 250 m/s. The author concludes that this event, along with others, supports the natural theory of UFOs as a phenomenon akin to ball lightning.

Towards a Psi/UFO Interface (Part 2)

Manfred Cassirer's article attempts to integrate data from parapsychology (psychical research) and ufology. The author, a former chairman of the Psychical Phenomena Committee of the Society for Psychical Research, has received a grant to study UFOlogical studies. The article discusses various theories and inter-relates specific aspects of UFO phenomena with psychical research. It highlights the striking resemblances, and occasional differences, between these two seemingly disparate fields. The article focuses on the "Epilepsy Connection," suggesting possible links between UFO experiences and epilepsy. It notes that seizures can be triggered by startling stimuli, including emotional experiences, and that Close Encounters involving hallucinations share similarities with epileptic phenomena. The concept of "EM columns" hypothesized by Persinger is mentioned, which observers might interpret as signs of intelligence. The article also explores "Apparitions," defining them broadly to include sensations of invisible presences and vivid visions. It notes that UFOs, like apparitions, can be fragmented and "apparently meaningless." The author discusses the similarities between UFOs and apparitions, including their varied forms, from two-dimensional presentations to physical embodiments. The article then delves into "Humanoids," describing them as a newer type of apparition, often appearing with UFOs, and sometimes resembling folk-lore figures like elves. It lists common characteristics of humanoids, such as their appearance, clothing, and tendency to appear in groups. The article also touches upon "Extraordinary Features" of UFOs, including sudden appearances/disappearances, invisibility, and the ability to pass through physical matter. Finally, it examines "Effects on the Percipient," such as involuntary travel, time-lapses, amnesia, and cataleptic states, and discusses how these experiences can lead to religious or conversion-like states. The author suggests that the similarities between UFO experiences and paranormal phenomena challenge the extraterrestrial hypothesis and point towards links with the paranormal and science fiction.

Correction to a Correction

A brief note corrects a previous correction regarding the sequence of issues for Volume 3 of the journal, clarifying the correct order of publication.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the search for naturalistic explanations for unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs. The journal appears to favor theories that link UFOs to known or hypothesized natural processes, such as solar phenomena (solar water) and atmospheric electrical events (ball lightning), or to planetary physics (Jupiter's magnetosphere). There is also a strong emphasis on exploring the psychological and parapsychological aspects of UFO experiences, drawing parallels with phenomena like apparitions and epilepsy. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry into unconventional scientific and pseudoscientific ideas, encouraging cross-fertilization between different fields of study.

This issue of THE JOURNAL OF TRANSIENT AERIAL PHENOMENA, dated OCTOBER, 1984, delves into a variety of unexplained phenomena, with a particular focus on the complex relationship between UFOs, humanoids, and other anomalous experiences. The content suggests a critical examination of evidence, distinguishing between genuine sightings, psychological factors, and potential hoaxes.

Humanoid Encounters and Associations

The issue begins by addressing the common denominator in UFO data: the lack of "really conclusive evidence" that they are "what they appear to be," whether as extraterrestrial spacecraft or spirits of the dead. It notes that while not all reports are acceptable, many are sincere, and occasional hoaxes exist. The article highlights the "Ersatz Poltergeist" phenomenon, where imaginative people project images onto shadows, and how in some cases, inhabitants of a "haunted" house perceived things differently. While hauntings with genuine psi components are common, the vast majority of UFO sightings are deemed illusory.

Reports of humanoids are often linked to UFOs through association. The Kelly (Kentucky) Close Encounter is cited, where the UFO sighting was doubted, but the presence of strange monkey-like creatures was not. The chief investigators listed six types of association between humanoids and "spacecraft":

• TYPE A: Humanoids observed only inside UFO.
• TYPE B: Humanoids observed entering or leaving UFO.
• TYPE C: Association inferred only (UFO in neighbourhood).
• TYPE D: Circumstantial association (activity reported).
• TYPE E: No Association.
• TYPE F: Voices and communication only.

The preconception that humanoids are occupants of UFOs is challenged, suggesting a generic tie with fairies and apparitions as understood by folklorists and parapsychologists. The assumption that Close Encounters (CEs) are identical with Night Lights (NLs) is also questioned.

Michael Persinger's work is mentioned, which places CEs within the context of geophysical, tectonic processes like "earthquake-related luminosities." The article emphasizes that illusion is prevalent, citing how advertising planes are often hailed as UFOs conforming to archetypal images.

An attempt from 1964 to rationalize apparitional figures in terms of vortices rendered visible by precipitating moisture into column-shaped clouds is noted. Persinger's horizontally moving vortices are described as traveling at a man's normal walking pace.

Misty Figures and Vortex Fields

Misty, indistinct images seen outdoors are considered less acceptable as evidence for humanoids or apparitions. The vortex field's connection with Poltergeists is also noted. Luminous ghosts are presupposed to be linked to drains polluted by decaying organic matter, leading Lambert to argue that modern apparitions are less likely to be indistinct grey shapes.

The Joller case is mentioned, where a child saw a phantom figure of a small child alongside more indistinct shapes. The tendency for vague stimuli to be interpreted in terms of the familiar through assimilation is highlighted, especially in spontaneous cases where anomalies are unnerving. Apparitions are initially accepted as intruders, but upon reflection, their presence in secured rooms is questioned.

A narrative from a Canadian writer illustrates this psychological mechanism: as a child, she saw a figure on her bed and initially mistook it for her cousin, persisting in the belief despite her own eyes. This highlights the assumption that apparitions are either "correct" or "incorrect," lacking an objective criterion.

This observation applies to UFO experiences as long as there is no absolute certainty of a physical object. The article rejects Persinger's demand to exclude reports based on human behavior quirks.

UFOs as Interpreted Phenomena

Analogous to psi effects, UFOs are interpreted as haystacks, overturned cars, or farm tractors. The object's eventual bizarre behavior can shatter the observer's complacency, leading to an "escalation of hypotheses." Cases are cited where aircraft were seen as "large shining balls" and "birds" as disc-shaped.

A common variant, Tyrrell's "ideal" type of apparition, strikes a chord of realism and conformity with everyday experience, where ghosts are often mistaken for "real" people. Humanoids, however, are usually recognized as extraordinary due to their grotesque features and size.

Materialisations

The phenomenon of materialisation is discussed, with the materialisation of "Katie King" through Florence Cook's mediumship being presented as a dramatic instance. Sir William Crookes' testimony is mentioned, though alternative explanations like covering up a scandal or megalomania are suggested. Other figures like Richet have attested to comparable miracles.

Materialised phantoms are described as transient and ephemeral, with some being truer to nature than others. Evidence for materialised limbs (hands, arms) is considered unequivocal, raising the question of why not full figures. UFOs and their occupants are noted for their versatility in fading in and out, with movements recalling Poltergeist trajectories.

The generic resemblance extends to apports, levitation, and teleportation. Contactees are cast in the role of physical mediums. "Phantoms" (apparitions and materialisations) and humanoids are presented as internally inconsistent: sometimes shunning human contact, other times obtrusively invading privacy. Humanoids are described as lucifugous, avoiding capture and close observation.

Apparitions recede from physical contact, unlike the solid materialised forms of séances. UFOs share a "shyness effect" with psi manifestations, making them unpopular with those who prefer phenomena readily available. UFOs are described as "elusive and clandestine," similar to psi phenomena, with sunlight avoided at "landings."

Physical mediums sometimes perform at fixed times, but UFOs are not obliged to do so. PK-like effects, such as stalling cars and disabling electronic apparatus, are characteristic of ufology. UFOs are reported as shooting up and disappearing, rendering themselves invisible, changing shape, or dividing into several units, suggesting they are not manufactured objects but provisional structures.

The ambivalence of the visual psychic construct, presenting aspects of subjectiveness and physical reality, is evident in the humanoid syndrome. "Extraterrestrials" are described as nearly as insubstantial as dream figures, yet in other guises, they can terrorize and resist gun-bullets.

Despite their elusiveness, there is a considerable "wealth of information" that cannot be ignored, including numerous examples of EM interference and physical traces. Materialised animals are also mentioned in connection with mediums, such as Franek Kluski's "Pithecanthropus," which smelled like a wet dog and was described as friendly. Harmless creatures attacked by a hunter also emitted a strong odour and disappeared unharmed.

Erotic Fantasy and Incubus/Succubus

The concepts of incubus and succubus are discussed, with Reginald Scott ridiculing their "beastlie and bawdie" implications. Richard Bovet's account of erotic fantasy concerning a footman assailed by two beautiful phantom women is presented, coinciding with a bright light and a thick fog, possibly linked to UFO phenomena.

Mrs K.M. Goldney described a "distinct mist" of obscure origin during a sitting with Rudi Schneider. Some UFO cases report envelopment in a thick mist. Antonio Villas Boas's alleged abduction is mentioned as a classic case, featuring his seduction by a female humanoid of extraordinary beauty, with no ill effects reported.

A psychologically based case describes a man enduring a "sexual influence" from a female apparition at night, attributed to guilt and frustration.

Ectoplasm and Angel Hair

Ectoplasm and "Angel Hair" are presented as mysterious substances. Ectoplasm is associated with materialisation, though not all physical mediums producing materialised forms did so via ectoplasm. Helen Duncan and "Margery" are mentioned as mediums associated with ectoplasm.

"Angel Hair" is described as "quite unstable" gossamer or cobweb, often erroneously connected with UFO sightings. However, some cases suggest it evaporated from a firmly closed jar. A "rain of white, gelatinous substance" ("Fibralovina") was observed after UFO sightings at Evora, with microscopic examination revealing an "apparently unknown microbe."

Charles Richet coined the term "ectoplasm." Besterman echoed complaints about its inconsistency. Harry Price's chemical analysis of Duncan's ectoplasm found it to consist of white of egg and stale urine. Schrenck's inconclusively analyzed a substance called "teleplasm."

ESP and Telepathy

Humanoids are described as conversing with contactees via "thought transference," telepathy, or "mental telepathy." This terminology is seen as an outdated conceptualization of ESP. "Telepathic extraterrestrials" originated with Adamski, whose books are described as containing occult pretensions. George Adamski, a self-advertising contactee, is described as a man of "meagre scholastic attainments" but with powerful imagination.

While ESP may be a form of communication, messages of more than a single word have rarely been conveyed in the laboratory. The evidence for this is precarious, and the process works at a subconscious level. The idea that ESP is a viable alternative to conventional communication is deemed an unfounded confabulation.

The nearest approximation to mythical humanoid mastery of ESP is the "supralingual" telepathy reported by Ian Stevenson. Mothers are said to have "telepathic rapport" with their offspring during the first few years of a child's life. Evoking "telepathy" without awareness of its limitations is considered dangerous.

An article in "Paris Soir" claimed that "Soviets outstrip the USA in the field of establishing contacts with extraterrestrial civilisations by means of transmitting thoughts into space," facilitated by telepathic test transmissions to Russian cosmonauts. Despite "Pravda's" denunciation, "telepathic" communication with extraterrestrials remains a popular topic.

In mitigation, the loose usage of "telepathy" might describe experiences where communication occurred without articulation, paralleling extraordinary feats in Poltergeist cases. At Bristol, mental questions were answered correctly even when in languages not understood. It is assumed that mediums derive information about clients from "super-ESP."

Healing and Precognition

Healing has been part of the psychic scene from the beginning. Accounts of cures by contact with UFOs imply a process involving non-verbalization. Evidence for precognition has also been claimed.

Hypnotic Regression

Hypnosis has attracted attention for recalling "previous lives" or "incarnations." While reincarnation has gained scientific respectability, the technique for recalling previous "incarnations" is not favored by the parapsychological establishment.

Many ufologists use hypnotic regression to reconstruct UFO abduction cases involving loss of time and amnesia. However, critics highlight that experiments show how easily details of ET kidnaps can be fabricated by hypnotised people. Therefore, assuming alien intelligences program minds to forget incidents is considered unnecessary and far-fetched.

Luminosities

Unexplained lights, whether in the sky or indoors, are a common feature of disciplines like mysticism and ufology. Historically, they were seen as miracles or demonic signs. To Spiritualists, they signify "spirit lights." The Pentecostal lights of the Acts of the Apostles are also mentioned.

Father Suarez was observed levitated in deep prayer, surrounded by a "blinding light." A "mystery light" was seen during a London seance, similar to "strange lights" in a North Carolina house. Luminosities in the heavens present difficulties for precise interpretation, leading some ufologists to abandon this aspect of the UFO syndrome.

Photographed lights often lack definition. Distinct lights observed during Irish and Welsh revivals are well-attested, with resemblances to UFO sightings, particularly the Fatima sightings. At Tedworth, "great lights" caused stiffness of the eyelids, a similar effect alleged in UFO cases. Luminosities are common in hauntings.

Claims of Blue Harary leaving his body as a shaft or ball of light are noted. UFOs come in various colors and brightnesses, as detailed by James M. McCampbell.

Odours

Unpleasant odours are associated with advanced extraterrestrial technology. An American businessman described a "gigantic top" departing with a "strong odor...like embalming fluid." An olfactory dimension of the Poltergeist is also noted, with a sulphurous smell at Tedworth.

Stainton Moses, a famous physical medium, experienced odours of a strong and varied kind, mostly agreeable. A powerful smell of ozone sometimes heralds physical phenomena in the seance-room, possibly indicating the energy source. Moses's more objectionable odours caused severe inflammation of the eyes. Similar reported effects on UFO observers are attributed to radiation, though evidence for radioactive UFOs could be clearer.

McCampbell provides an exhaustive list of unpleasant smells associated with UFO sightings, including those of a sulphurous kind. Haunted houses are sometimes afflicted by sporadic odours, such as an "infernal odour" experienced by the writer.

Auditory Aspects

The acoustic element of apparitions and UFOs is discussed, noting they can be heard as well as seen. The "Direct Voice" of Spiritualism is an "isolated voice in space without visible source of agency." It occurs in Poltergeist cases and, rarely, with physical mediums.

A young woman explained how a curious buzzing sound or vibration near her head preceded paranormal physical phenomena. An inexplicable buzzing, later replaced by regular "footsteps," was the sole phenomenon in an Enfield restaurant. UFOs depart with a roar and various other noises, with a humming sound being characteristic. By contrast, common acoustic psi effects like raps and knocks are absent from the ufological scene.

UFOLOGY STRUCK DOWN

The section addresses "debunkers" and their "natural" explanations, often superficial. Parapsychology also suffers from detractors who combine scepticism with ignorance. The article discusses Menzel's view that UFO reports are "modern myths" to be "shot down" collectively, emphasizing that "each case is a separate item." The author argues that Science deals in probabilities, not final "proof," and that isolating data makes it difficult for meaningful analysis.

Psychical Research traditionally lumps similar effects into "mental" and "physical" phenomena. Oberg's criticism is noted, arguing that anomalies have significant patterns. Philip Klass's "plasma umbrella" and ascribing Poltergeists to geophysical factors are mentioned as abrasive charges.

The late Edward Condon's awarding of equal ratings to weak cases is criticized. The article notes that much inferior material has entered print in subjects like parapsychology and ufology, but the best critics are experts in their fields. Alan Hendry is presented as a debunker of illusory and unsound aspects of ufology.

Meetings and Investigator Training

Announcements for BUFORA lectures are included, featuring "Tribal Reaction in Africa to UFOs" by Cynthia Hind and "UFOs: The Triple Conspiracy" by Jenny Randles. The latter discusses the relationship between science and the UFO phenomenon, government involvement in UFO research, and a "hoax perpetrated by governments."

A section on "Investigator Training" emphasizes the need for formal training in UFO research. It mentions the "UFO Anamnesis Test" devised by Dr. A.G. Keul as a witness-based study to guide UFO research. BUFORA's research and investigation subcommittee has sanctioned workshops, with one scheduled for October 27th, 1984, in Warrington. These workshops are open to members over 18 with flexible thinking, focusing on a non-physical approach to the UFO enigma.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently questions the literal interpretation of UFO phenomena, emphasizing psychological factors, illusion, and the potential for misinterpretation. There is a recurring theme of distinguishing between genuine anomalies and mundane explanations, while also acknowledging the persistent nature of unexplained events. The journal appears to adopt a critical yet open-minded stance, encouraging rigorous investigation and a willingness to consider unconventional approaches, such as the non-physical aspects of the UFO enigma, while also acknowledging the contributions of skeptics and debunkers.

Title: The Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena
Issue: 1/2
Date: November-December, 1984
Publisher: Bufora
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

Aims and Scope of the Journal

The Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena (Journal TAP) is dedicated to advancing the scientific analysis and investigation of unidentified flying object (UFO) phenomena. It acknowledges that ufological research often borders on speculation but aims to provide a platform for scientific institutions to discuss UFOs and related phenomena when they intersect with their disciplines. Journal TAP seeks to offer a broad scope, clear and topical commentary, and a rigorous scientific approach. It intends to be a truly international forum, enabling researchers worldwide to publish their findings, thereby furthering knowledge of the cosmos and benefiting humankind.

Notes for Contributors

Contributions are welcomed from all parts of the world, preferably in English. Manuscripts should be typed double-spaced on one side of A4 paper with wide margins and submitted in duplicate. While there is no strict length limit, authors are encouraged to be concise. The author's name and affiliation should appear below the title, followed by an abstract of approximately 100 words summarizing the main conclusions. Mathematical symbols should be clear and unambiguous. Illustrations should be kept to a minimum, accompanying the script and integrated into the page numbering. Line drawings must be in black ink on white paper, with clear lettering suitable for a 20% reduction. Photographs should be glossy prints. Captions should be appended and clearly marked. Tables should be prepared for direct photo-offset reproduction, adhering to A4 page size and specified widths (10.5 cm or 22 cm). Large tables should continue on subsequent sheets with identifying numbers. References to published literature should be cited in the text using bracketed numbers and listed numerically at the end of the paper. Dates should follow the astronomical convention (e.g., 1977 August 06), and times should be in astronomical form (24-hour clock and Universal Time, or specified local time with GMT). Authors are responsible for obtaining necessary permissions for published material.

Editorial Process and Policy

The Editorial Board reserves the right to seek advice from referees and, based on their recommendations, to accept, request revisions for, or reject manuscripts. If a manuscript is deemed unsuitable for Journal TAP, the Editor-in-chief may forward it to the Editor of Bufora Journal. The Editor-in-chief's decision is final. Book reviews and letters for publication are also considered. Opinions expressed in articles are solely those of the contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Bufora, its Council, or the Editor-in-chief.

Contents of this Issue

This issue features several key articles:

• SOLAR AND EXTRATERRESTRIAL LIFE - A NEW HYPOTHESIS (Part 2) by Ali Abutaha
• JUPITER AND THE NATURAL THEORY OF UFOS by Steuart Campbell
• TOWARDS A PSI/UFO INTERFACE by Manfred Cassirer

Additionally, the issue includes a report on BUFORA MEETINGS - NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 1984.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently promotes a scientific and analytical approach to UFO phenomena, moving beyond mere speculation. It emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation, data analysis, and international collaboration. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry, encouraging diverse perspectives while maintaining a commitment to scientific methodology. The publication serves as a platform for researchers to share their findings and contribute to a deeper understanding of unexplained aerial phenomena and their potential implications for our understanding of the cosmos.