BUFORA Bulletin - No 14 - Aug 1984

Magazine Overview

Title: BUFORA BULLETIN
Issue: No Ø14
Date: August, 1984
Publisher: BUFORA Ltd.
Country: United Kingdom
ISSN: 0265-1947

This issue of the BUFORA Bulletin, dated August 1984, presents a collection of UFO investigation reports and articles, showcasing the organization's commitment to scientific research in the field of unidentified flying objects. The cover features a striking image of a child pointing at a sky filled with luminous objects above a silhouetted house, with the magazine title prominently displayed.

Contents Overview

The bulletin includes a detailed 'Investigations Department Report' by Jenny Randles, covering various cases. Other articles delve into specific topics such as 'The Amnesia Factor in Hypnotic Recalled UFO Abduction' by Ahmed Jamaludin, 'Our Haunted World' by Paul Dormer, and 'Three Theories in Search of a UFO' by Manfred Cassirer. Stephen Gamble discusses 'The Future of Research,' while Nigel Watson examines 'Pre-1947 UFO Bulletins.' Lionel Beer shares experiences from 'The Traumas of Running a UFO Study Course,' and Jenny Randles introduces 'An IFO Sensitivity Index.' The issue also features a 'Letters' section and a 'Books' review, concluding with a schedule for 'BUFORA Evening Lectures' for September-October 1984.

Key Investigations and Case Studies

Case 77-904: "It Was a Flying Saucer"

Investigated by Nigel Mortimer and the West Yorkshire Research Group, this case from July 1977 involved a witness, Mrs. Frater, who described a circular, gun-metal grey object hovering silently about one foot off the ground. The object, approximately 30 feet in diameter with a dome and portholes, emitted a brief burst of red flame downwards before ascending rapidly. The witness was deeply affected by the encounter. Subsequent site investigation revealed a bare patch of ground and a circle of grass with lusher growth, though a direct link to the sighting was uncertain due to a six-year time lapse. The NIC regards this as a prime case from 1983, with the witness's description of the object's propulsion offering potential data.

The Heathrow Airport Sightings (Case 82-025)

Investigated by Steve Chetwynd, this report from March 1982 detailed sightings around Heathrow Airport. A witness, Mr. H., observed a Boeing 747 on take-off, from which a bright, creamy-coloured light detached itself and shot across the plane's path, travelling at high speed. The investigation involved cross-referencing multiple witness accounts and consulting meteorological data. Further checks with the British Astronomical Association led to the conclusion that the event was most likely a bright fireball meteor. The NIC closed the case, commending the investigation's thoroughness.

An Intruder at the Air Display (Case 82-026)

Investigated by Jenny Randles, Peter Warrington, and the Manchester UFO Research Association, this case from June 1982 occurred in Ramsey, Isle of Man. A witness, Charles C., photographed a fine white elliptical ring-shaped object moving slowly west. The object was described as being around 500ft high and 30ft in diameter. The investigation considered the possibility of a smoke ring from a nearby air display, a hypothesis supported by Jenny Randles' confirmation that aircraft in the display did emit smoke trails. The case was suspended pending new evidence, with the smoke ring hypothesis considered a likely solution.

The Train Arriving – Is a UFO! (Case 83-009)

Investigated by Eric Morris and the Plymouth UFO Investigation Centre, this case from March 1983 involved an 83-year-old witness, Mrs. R., who observed three overlapping bright lights approaching her house. The object, estimated to be 10-15ft in diameter, hovered in her garden before moving away. Site investigation revealed a possible wasting disease in hedges where the object hovered and a small area of freshly dug soil. Despite checks for radiation and other explanations, the case was deemed unexplained.

BUFORA Organisation and Aims

The bulletin provides details about BUFORA's structure, including its council members, officers, and registered details. The British UFO Research Association (BUFORA Ltd.) was founded in 1964 and aims to encourage, promote, and conduct unbiased scientific research into UFO phenomena, collect and disseminate evidence, and coordinate UFO research globally. Membership is open to all who support these aims and are approved by the Executive Committee.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue emphasizes rigorous, scientific investigation and a methodical approach to UFO cases. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, seeking rational explanations where possible (as seen with the Heathrow case) but acknowledging when cases remain genuinely unexplained (like the Paignton sighting). The importance of detailed reporting, witness interviews, and physical evidence is highlighted throughout the case studies. The bulletin also promotes the organization's activities, such as evening lectures, and encourages membership, positioning BUFORA as a central hub for UFO research in the UK.

This issue of BUFORA's publication, dated September 1984, focuses on the organization's Accredited Investigators (AIs) and delves into the psychological aspects of UFO experiences, particularly amnesia in abduction cases and the parallels between UFO phenomena and apparitions.

BUFORA's Accredited Investigators

The magazine begins by introducing BUFORA's National Investigations Committee (NIC) and its team of Accredited Investigators (AIs). These AIs are granted local autonomy to investigate UFO case reports according to NIC standards. To become an AI, a BUFORA member must meet minimum criteria and submit an acceptable case report. AI status offers members certain discounts in exchange for expenses incurred during investigations. The publication lists AIs by region across Scotland, North, Midlands, Central, East Anglia, East, South East, London, West, South West, and Channel Islands, providing their names and addresses. Members interested in becoming investigators are encouraged to contact their regional RIC or, for the London and Home Counties area, Steve Chetwynd. Those in other parts of the UK are directed to contact BUFORA's Director of Investigations, Miss Jenny Randles.

The Amnesia Factor in Hypnotic Recalled UFO Abduction

A significant article by Ahmed Jamaludin examines the phenomenon of amnesia in UFO abduction experiences, particularly those recalled under hypnosis. Jamaludin's research compares fourteen amnesia cases with fourteen non-amnesia cases. The study suggests that amnesia is not primarily induced by post-hypnotic suggestion from abductors, but rather by a 'time difference' between Earth time and UFO time. When the UFO time is longer than Earth time, a 'time shock' occurs upon return, preventing the conscious memory from recording the experience, thus leading to amnesia. The article notes that intelligible communication from abductors was significantly higher in amnesia cases (93%) compared to non-amnesia cases (14.2%). The author references previous work by Lawson, daSilva, and Walton, and discusses the challenges in distinguishing between true abductions and hypnotic recall.

Our Haunted World: Parallels Between UFOs and Ghosts

Paul Dormer, a physicist and freelance journalist, explores the uncanny similarities between UFO sightings and ghost apparitions. Dormer posits that these phenomena, while seemingly disparate, share a common set of characteristics. These include sudden disappearance (like a bubble bursting), silence, physiological disturbances in witnesses (paralysis, inability to speak), communication via telepathy, and time distortion. The article also touches upon poltergeist activity and the 'cosmic nanny phenomena,' where investigations are mysteriously thwarted, and 'men-in-black' warn witnesses. Dormer suggests that the link between these phenomena might point towards a deeper connection between the human psyche and reality, possibly at a fundamental quantum level, rather than solely external events.

Forthcoming Events

The issue concludes with a section on upcoming events of interest to BUFORA members. Two slide-lectures by Lionel Beer on the UFO experience and its implications are announced: one in North London on Tuesday, September 25, 1984, and another in Sutton, Surrey, on Thursday, November 22, 1984.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes rigorous investigation and data collection within the UFO field, as evidenced by the detailed listing of Accredited Investigators and the research-oriented articles. There is a clear editorial stance favoring empirical analysis and exploring unconventional explanations for UFO phenomena, such as the psychological and temporal factors discussed in the articles. The publication encourages member participation and aims to advance the understanding of UFOs by drawing parallels with other unexplained phenomena and psychological theories.

This issue of BUFORA's publication, titled "THE FUTURE OF RESEARCH," dated Saturday, 13th October, 1984, is primarily a research-focused bulletin from the organization. It features articles by Manfred Cassirer and S.J. Gamble, alongside announcements for a NUFON conference and a BUFORA NIC meeting.

Articles

"Three Theories in Search of a UFO" by Manfred Cassirer

Manfred Cassirer critically examines the terminology and theories surrounding Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs). He notes the evolution of terms from "Flying Saucers" to "Transient Aerial Phenomena," highlighting the semantic difficulties in defining the subject. Cassirer discusses the historical context, including Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting and the subsequent popularization of the term "Flying Saucers."

He then delves into three main hypotheses for UFO causation:

1. The Terrestrial Hypothesis: This theory posits that UFOs are secret weapons, popular during the post-war period with speculation about Russian or American origins. Cassirer dismisses this, stating that UFOs are not man-made terrestrial artifacts.
2. The Extra-Terrestrial Hypothesis (ETH): This is the most popular theory, often lampooned as the "Kids' Comic Hypothesis." Cassirer finds it problematic due to its implied assumption of superior cosmic intelligence and its tendency to generate fear, false hopes, and paranoia. He recounts how in the late 1960s, Europe experienced an "invasion" of this theory promoted by American writers. He describes a typical "close encounter" scenario involving a crashed vehicle, luminous saucer-shaped structures, and frantic figures making repairs, who then disappear upon being spotted.
3. The Psychological Hypothesis: Cassirer suggests that not everything should be taken at face value and that many reports might be explained by psychological factors. He notes that about 90% of aerial sightings are considered "imposters" or Identified Flying Objects (IFOs), often due to misperceptions of planets, stars, or natural phenomena. He also mentions the possibility of hoaxes, deliberate deception, and honest mistakes or ignorance contributing to reports. He points out that many sightings can be attributed to unrecognised astronomical objects, aircraft, meteors, or satellite re-entries. Despite this, a residue of unexplained sightings remains.

Cassirer also touches upon "Bizarre Reports," which include seemingly reliable accounts of events that rival reports from seance rooms. These often involve multiple witnesses, synchronous radar sightings, interference with apparatus, and physical traces of landings. He suggests that alternative interpretations drawing on parapsychology should be considered, as UFOs are a post-war development and do not fit older models.

"The Future of Research" by S.J. Gamble (Director of Research, BUFORA)

S.J. Gamble outlines his philosophy and proposals for the future of research within BUFORA. He addresses two common complaints from ufologists: why scientists are not interested and why the government does not actively research UFOs.

Gamble explains that professional scientists prefer to work with established organizations and on specific problems, and that government funding is unlikely for subjects like UFOs, especially when other critical areas like cancer and mental illness are under-funded. He proposes a "self-help" approach, where BUFORA must fund its own research and build a good reputation.

He details his immediate proposals, focusing on three main areas:

• Techniques Sections: Groups focusing on photographic analysis, trace evidence, computerization, and statistics. These sections are intended to support investigations and improve data reliability.
• Theories Sections: New additions to research work, planned in four areas: UFOs as natural phenomena (e.g., ball lightning), psychological or physiological phenomena (e.g., hallucination), results of advanced technology (terrestrial or extraterrestrial), and psychic phenomena.
• Project Grants: Support for individual or small group research projects that fall outside the scope of existing groups, potentially offering small monetary grants or facility access.

Gamble emphasizes the need to improve the reliability of witness data, possibly through studies on methods like hypnotic regression. He also discusses longer-term implications, including the need for self-contained research programs to obtain more reliable data and the importance of increasing BUFORA's membership to secure adequate funding for larger projects.

"PRE 1947 UFO BULLETIN: THE GREAT AIRSHIP" by Nigel Watson

Nigel Watson reviews "THE GREAT AIRSHIP," a 1914 adventure story by Captain F.S. Brereton. He notes its relevance to the British phantom airship waves of 1909 and 1913. The novel depicts a fear of German Zeppelins and features a fictional giant airship invented by Joe Gresson, capable of impressive speeds and altitudes. Watson highlights the story's themes of courage, invention, and the overcoming of dangers, comparing the fictional airship to the acknowledged technological marvel of the Zeppelin.

Conference and Meeting Announcements

NUFON CONFERENCE (Saturday, 13th October, 1984)

Announces a conference at Victoria Hall, Saltaire, Shipley, Bradford, West Yorkshire. Speakers include Jenny Randles and Harry Harris, with topics covering "Is There A Cosmic Cover Up?" and "Local UFO Case Reports." A video presentation of UFO cases by Harry Harris is scheduled for Saturday evening.

BUFORA NIC MEETING (Sunday, 14th October, 1984)

Announces a meeting on Sunday afternoon. Overnight accommodation details and contact information for travel arrangements (Nigel Mortimer) are provided. It is stated that "all Als attend."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly advocates for a more scientific and rigorous approach to UFO research, moving away from pure speculation or sensationalism. There's a clear emphasis on the need for self-funded, internally driven research within organizations like BUFORA, due to the perceived lack of interest from mainstream science and government. The articles highlight the challenges of defining UFOs, the limitations of current theories, and the importance of improving data collection and analysis. The inclusion of a historical fiction review suggests an interest in the cultural context and historical precedents of aerial phenomena reports. The overall stance is one of cautious, methodical investigation, aiming to build a credible body of research.

This issue of the BUFORA Bulletin, dated June 1984, features a cover story by Lionel Beer titled "The Traumas of Running a UFO Study Course," detailing his experiences organizing a short summer course in Putney, London. The bulletin also includes a proposal for an "IFO Sensitivity Index" by Jenny Randles, a lengthy rebuttal defending Dr. J. Allen Hynek, reviews of two books, and announcements for upcoming BUFORA lectures.

The Traumas of Running a UFO Study Course

Lionel Beer recounts the difficulties encountered while attempting to run a UFO course. An initial attempt in September 1983 at the Putney and Wandsworth Institute, promoted under "The New Philosophy," attracted only eight students and was closed after the first night. The administration was criticized for poor publicity and a laissez-faire attitude.

A subsequent short summer course, commencing Monday, June 4th, 1984, was organized at the Mayfield Adult Centre. The venue initially chosen, The Hotham Centre, proved unsuitable due to a force 7 gale. The alternative, Mayfield, West Hill, Putney, was known to have an asbestos problem, necessitating the use of an adjacent older building. Despite initial concerns about low enrollment, with only three names on the register on the opening night, the course eventually attracted 13 people, growing to 15 by the following week, making it viable.

Further administrative challenges arose, including the late delivery of a carousel slide projector and the lack of an extension cable. Students had to improvise, using a chair on a desk to position the projector. Despite these initial setbacks, the course ran for five Monday evenings, with consistent attendance from class members, including Albert Budden, Mary Corr, and other BUFORA members who made "erudite contributions." The syllabus was a truncated version of one used at Morley College in 1979, which had gained media attention.

Following the final session, ten attendees celebrated at a local public house, with Lionel Beer returning home late.

A Proposal For Field Investigators: An IFO Sensitivity Index

Jenny Randles proposes the development of an "IFO Sensitivity Index" for BUFORA field investigators. She argues that assessing a witness's ability to distinguish between genuine UFOs and Identified Flying Objects (IFOs) is a significant challenge. The index aims to provide a more scientific measure of this factor, which is currently subjectively assessed.

The proposal involves creating a set of half a dozen photographs, including a lenticular cloud, aircraft landing lights, and a balloon, along with ambiguous images of common IFO stimuli that are often reported as UFOs. At least one photograph of a genuinely regarded UFO would also be included.

The test would be administered by showing the photographs to a witness and asking them to identify them or suggest what they might be. Points would be awarded for correct identification (positive score), incorrect diagnosis (negative score), and indecision (zero score). This would result in a score between minus seven and plus seven, indicating the witness's sensitivity to IFOs.

Randles believes this index would be a valuable aid to case evaluation and urges BUFORA members to search their files for suitable photographs to contribute to the project. Comments on the idea should be sent to BUFORA's Investigation Department.

Rebuttal of Claims Against Dr. J. Allen Hynek

In a letter, Jenny Randles strongly rebuts claims made in the Danish magazine UFO CONTACT regarding Dr. J. Allen Hynek. She addresses two specific points:

1. **"Allen Hynek has never seen a UFO."
Randles states this is "completely false." She mentions that Hynek has published a photograph he took himself from an aircraft, which has appeared in books and magazines. Furthermore, she asserts that Hynek and his family witnessed a daylight disc during a Canadian holiday home incident, which was reported to Blue Book.

2. **"CUFOS has not released a single investigated UFO report."
Randles describes this claim as "outlandish" and "scarcely bears discussion." She points to the monthly and bi-monthly issues of INTERNATIONAL UFO REPORTER and the CUFOS Newsletter, which she states are "packed with investigated case reports." She also mentions special reports produced by CUFOS, such as the "Ohio helicopter chase," and highlights that the CUFOS publishing record is "unparalleled in ufology."

Randles emphasizes that Dr. Hynek has been the "single most important influence on the history of our subject" and deserves "enormous recognition for his tenacity, braveness and intellectual skills." She criticizes fellow ufologists who make such accusations, calling their innuendos "pathetic nonsense."

Book Reviews

The Evidence For Alien Abductions by John Rimmer:

This book is reviewed by an unnamed author who finds it of "great interest" due to its relevance to UFO phenomena and agreement with the author's conclusions. The review discusses the controversy surrounding whether abductions are actual occurrences or dreams/hallucinations. Rimmer discounts the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH) as the cause, a view the reviewer shares, questioning the bizarre behavior and inconsistent physical appearances of alleged aliens.

The book covers well-known cases like the Hills, Travis Walton, Hickman, Parker, Alan Godfrey, and Villas Boas. While it doesn't present new cases, it delves into theories, including the Lawson hypothesis linking abductions to birth trauma, which the reviewer finds warrants further investigation due to striking similarities.

The reviewer notes that the book emphasizes the value of detailed research into the phenomenon and the wealth of available data. It concludes that "ALIEN ABDUCTIONS is compulsory reading for all ufologists."

The Evidence For Bigfoot And Other Man-Beasts by Janet and Colin Bord:

Reviewed by John Spencer, this book is part of ASSAP's "Evidence For" series and focuses on presenting evidence rather than conclusions. Spencer finds the evidence for Bigfoot "rather flimsy," with many sightings lacking documentation or related sightings. He notes the unusual emphasis on olfactory encounters (smells) in the book.

The review criticizes the lack of research into the phenomenon, contrasting it with the ability to study troop movements from afar. It questions why a 16ft hairy monster cannot be located. The review also points out a contradiction regarding the 1967 Bigfoot film, where its realism is praised, yet there is controversy over whether it depicts a baby Bigfoot.

Spencer finds the book's treatment of the subject "dry" and lacking entertainment value, with repetitive descriptions of man-beasts. He notes the variety of names for the creature worldwide (Sasquatch, Yowie, Yahoo, Yeti, Hiba-gon) and an amusing report of a Himalayan expedition where a night visitor stole chocolate bars.

While acknowledging the book is "interesting and comprehensive," Spencer criticizes the authors for being "too comprehensive," attempting to cover too much ground. He suggests that proper conclusions on Bigfoot require ethological and ethnological studies, not UFO-logical ones. Despite these criticisms, he calls it an "interesting book for any enquiring mind" and a "vital piece of luggage for an expedition."

Meetings

BUFORA announced two lectures for September and October 1984:

• September 1st, 1984: "The Godfrey Case and Its Wider Implications" by Harry Harris, discussing abduction cases, particularly the PC Alan Godfrey case at Todmorden.
• October 6th, 1984: "Skycrash in Rendlesham Forest - Was it a UFO?" by Mrs Dot Street and Mrs Brenda Butler, investigators of the Rendlesham Forest incident. This lecture coincides with the publication of their book, "SKYCRASH - A COSMIC COVER UP."

Both meetings were scheduled for 6:30 pm at the London Business School.

BUFORA Publications - Special Offer

The bulletin lists several publications available to BUFORA members at reduced prices, including:

• CLOSE ENCOUNTER AT LIVINGSTON
• UFO INVESTIGATION. Standard field investigators handbook.
• CONGRESS 179
• VEHICLE INTERFERENCE PROJECT

Additionally, Lionel Beer has copies of a leaflet marking BUFORA's 21st anniversary, available with or without special red lapel badges.

Kenneth Arnold (1916-1984)

A brief obituary notes the death of Kenneth Arnold, the airline pilot whose 1947 sighting of nine discs over Mount Rainier is considered the start of modern ufological studies. He died on January 16th, 1984, at the age of 68.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The BUFORA Bulletin consistently focuses on UFO research, investigation, and the dissemination of information within the ufological community. There is a strong emphasis on scientific rigor, as evidenced by the proposal for an IFO Sensitivity Index and the detailed rebuttals of unsubstantiated claims. The publication aims to inform its readers about ongoing research, lectures, and relevant publications, while also defending the integrity of prominent figures in the field, such as Dr. J. Allen Hynek. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting serious ufological inquiry and challenging misinformation. The inclusion of book reviews and lecture announcements indicates a commitment to providing a comprehensive resource for ufologists.