UFO Times - No 05 - Jan 1990

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO TIMES
Issue: Number 5
Date: January 1990
Publisher: BUFORA Ltd
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Editorial: Into a New Decade

The editorial, written by John Spencer, reflects on the close of the 1980s and the dawn of a new decade, drawing parallels between the opening of the Eastern bloc and the potential for increased information exchange in ufology. Spencer highlights the need for ufologists to support counterparts in countries previously starved of information. He reviews the past ten years of British ufology, noting a shift away from the extraterrestrial hypothesis towards new theories, and commends efforts to improve research methodology, witness confidentiality, and detailed, analytical investigation. The psycho-social angle of UFO reports is emphasized, with research like the Anamnesis project and the Earthlights hypothesis being praised for their fresh thinking. Spencer also critiques the sensationalist tabloid approach that emerged in the UK, contrasting it with the continued belief in abductions in American ufology, which he fears could lead to a new, overwhelming mythology.

He expresses hope for a level-headed continuation of ufology in the UK and provides an address for a Russian ufologist seeking information exchange.

Inside

The "INSIDE" section previews key articles. It highlights John Spencer's controversial paper on abduction experiences, BUFORA Ltd's 15th Annual Report, and Jenny Randles' research into a potential 17th Century Corn Circle. Other features mentioned include "Skywatcher," news, and letters.

Key Articles and Features

Witness Driven Investigation - Part 1 (by John Spencer)

This article presents the first part of a presentation made to the International London UFO Congress in July 1989. Spencer critically reviews the use of regression hypnosis in investigating abduction cases, based on his own examination of practitioners, the use of hypnosis in other fields, and the motivations of investigators. He argues that despite significant effort, researchers are failing to uncover the truth behind the phenomenon and are not effectively helping witnesses. Spencer focuses on the Betty and Barney Hill case as a crucial example, questioning the reality of their reported abduction. He suggests that while the events may have a physical stimulus, the recall of the experience, particularly through hypnosis, may be influenced by subconscious factors, prior reading (such as NICAP material), and the investigators themselves. He posits that the 'missing time' element, vivid dreams, and inconsistent details in recollections point towards the possibility that the reported experiences are not literal accounts but rather a manifestation of psychological processes.

Spencer details the events of the Betty and Barney Hill sighting on September 19th, 1961, near Lancaster, New Hampshire. He notes Betty's initial observation of a bright light, which grew larger and brighter, and Barney's attempt to examine it more closely. The article discusses the lack of sound from the object and the absence of other cars, which contributed to a sense of unease. Spencer highlights the differences in their perspectives and recollections, particularly Betty's drawing of the craft versus Barney's closer examination. He also touches upon the 'false isolation' phenomenon reported in some abduction cases. The article details Barney's regression session, where he recalled non-abduction events, and Betty's subsequent vivid dreams, which mirrored the abduction narrative. Spencer questions whether these dreams were inspired by external stimuli or were a subconscious creation to reinforce her beliefs about UFOs, suggesting that the aliens' questions about basic concepts like 'vegetable' or 'yellow' indicate a lack of understanding that might betray their 'true' origins or simply reflect Betty's own idiomatic language and fantasies.

The Hertfordshire Mowing Devil (by Jenny Randles)

This section announces research by Jenny Randles into a 17th Century Corn Circle, suggesting a historical precedent for the phenomenon.

BUFORA Ltd: Annual Report

The magazine includes BUFORA Ltd's 15th Annual Report to its membership, detailing the organization's activities and standing.

Skywatcher (Edited by Gary Anthony)

This regular feature provides updates and observations from skywatchers.

Letters

A section dedicated to correspondence from readers.

BUFORA Information

Page 2 provides detailed information about BUFORA (The British UFO Research Association Limited), including its history, aims, and organizational structure. Founded in 1964, BUFORA aims to promote unbiased scientific research of UFO phenomena, collect and disseminate evidence, and coordinate research efforts. The page lists key personnel, including the President, Vice President, Council Members, Membership Secretary, Secretary to Council, Director of Research, Director of Investigations, Secretary to NIC, Press Officer, and Director of Publications. It also details the membership process and lists associate groups. The organization emphasizes witness confidentiality as a core principle.

UFOCALL Service

An advertisement promotes "UFOCALL," a telephone service providing regularly updated national UFO news and information, including the latest sightings, research discussions, general UFO news, book reviews, and event information. The service is available seven days a week.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO abduction phenomena, the methodology of UFO research, and the importance of scientific rigor and witness confidentiality. The editorial stance, particularly from John Spencer, is one of cautious skepticism towards sensationalist claims and a strong advocacy for objective, analytical investigation. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between genuine experiences and psychological manifestations, with a particular focus on the potential for subconscious influence and the limitations of regression hypnosis. The magazine also positions BUFORA as a leading, well-established organization committed to serious UFO research in the British Isles, aiming for a 'level-headed' approach to the subject.

Title: UFO Times
Issue Date: December 1989
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of UFO Times features a critical analysis of the Betty and Barney Hill abduction case, a report on UFO educational initiatives, and the proceedings and financial reports of BUFORA Ltd.

The Betty and Barney Hill Case: A Re-evaluation

The lead article delves into the controversial Betty and Barney Hill abduction case, presenting arguments that challenge the objective reality of the event. The author, while acknowledging the possibility of a genuine encounter, leans towards the experience being a 'non-reality.' This perspective is supported by several points: the 'dream-like material' in the recall, the lack of corroborating physical evidence, and sometimes contradictory details such as Barney's scuffed shoes (suggesting he was dragged) versus his recall of being levitated. The author also notes the inconsistencies in the aliens' use of language and the delayed recognition of the 'missing time' period by the Hills themselves. A key argument is that Betty's vivid nightmares, shared with Barney over two years, may have formed the basis of the 'abduction story' that was later reinforced by hypnotic regression. Dr. Simon's view that hypnosis is a pathway to the truth as felt by the patient, not necessarily objective truth, is cited. The article posits that the Hill's case may have become the template for subsequent abduction claims, containing all the 'main components' such as missing time, dislocation in space, and medical examinations.

UFOs go to School

This section details a 10-week evening class titled 'UFO'S: FACT OR FICTION?' held in West Yorkshire from September to November 1989, tutored by Philip Mantle and Andy Roberts. The course covered a wide range of UFO topics, including abductions and cover-ups, and was well-attended. A follow-up course on 'UFO CLOSE ENCOUNTERS' is announced for February and March 1990, featuring guest speakers and witnesses. The article provides contact information for Philip Mantle for those interested in participating.

BUFORA Ltd: Annual General Meeting and Reports

The issue includes extensive coverage of BUFORA Ltd's Fifteenth Annual General Meeting, held on March 3rd, 1990, at The London Business School. The agenda included the Chairman's Report, Treasurer's Report, Director of Research Report, Director of Investigations Report, and Director of Publications Report, along with the adoption of the Council of Management's report and accounts, and amendments to the Articles of Association.

Chairman's Report (1988-89)

S.J. Gamble's report highlights a period of 'exciting times' and 'rapid developments' for BUFORA, noting a 10% increase in membership. He reflects on his first report as Chairman, succeeding Arnold West after five years. Key objectives for BUFORA included improving library and case report accessibility by centralizing them and establishing a full-time headquarters. The organization also considered reapplying for charitable status. BUFORA was active in forming links with other UK UFO groups and participated in an International Congress in London, which enhanced its international standing. The launch of 'UFO Times' magazine in May 1989, replacing the BUFORA Bulletin and the Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena, is noted as a significant development. The UFOCALL hotline was also launched.

Minutes of the Fourteenth Annual General Meeting (March 4th, 1989)

These minutes detail the proceedings of the previous year's AGM. Arnold West chaired the meeting. Key points include the decision to combine BUFORA's journals into a new publication, 'UFO Times.' Appreciation was expressed for the contributions of Bob Holland and Bob Digby. Mike Wootten reported on successful sales of BUFORA publications, including 'UFOs 1947-87' and 'Phenomenon.' Amendments to the Articles of Association were approved, including the addition of a 'Code of Practice for Investigators' and making annual membership renewal at the Council's discretion. Five members of the Council were elected or re-elected.

Financial Reports

Balance Sheet as at 31st August 1989: BUFORA Limited's balance sheet shows Fixed Assets of £710 (Equipment). Current Assets totaled £3,295, comprising Bank (£1,620), Deposit Account (£1,025), and Debtors and payments in advance (£650). Current Liabilities amounted to £2,181, including Sundry creditors (£560) and Subscriptions in advance (£1,621). The General Fund showed a Balance brought forward of £1,985 and an Excess of expenditure for the year of (£161), resulting in a closing balance of £1,824.

Income and Expenditure Account for the Year Ended 31st August 1989: Total Income was £6,160, with Subscriptions (£4,104) and Publications (£1,626) being the largest contributors. Total Expenditure was £6,321, with Publications (£4,012) and Stationery and administration (£1,159) being the highest costs. The net result was an excess of expenditure over income of £161.

Legal Threat

The Chairman's report also addresses a significant concern: BUFORA Ltd is under threat of legal action. This arises from an interview with a member, who is also an officer of BUFORA, published in a regional newspaper. The complainant alleges defamation, claiming the member acted as BUFORA's agent. BUFORA Council denies this and has sought legal advice, believing any action is unlikely to succeed. However, the report warns that defending a court case could deplete the Association's financial reserves and, in a worst-case scenario, lead to the winding up of BUFORA Ltd, with members' liability limited to £1.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the more critical and analytical aspects of UFO phenomena, particularly evident in the in-depth examination of the Betty and Barney Hill case, which questions the veracity of the reported events. The publication also serves as a platform for BUFORA's organizational activities, including educational outreach and administrative and financial reporting. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous investigation and a commitment to transparency, as evidenced by the detailed reporting of the AGM and the frank discussion of the legal threat. There's a clear emphasis on UFOlogy as a field requiring careful scrutiny and a distinction between personal belief and objective evidence.

This issue of UFO Times, identified as number 21, covers the reporting period from September 1988 to August 31, 1989. The magazine is published by BUFORA (British UFO Research Association).

Report of the Council of Management

The Council of Management's report outlines the principal activities of BUFORA for the financial year, which focused on encouraging, promoting, and conducting unbiased scientific research into UFO phenomena in the United Kingdom and cooperating with international efforts. The company is registered with the Data Protection Registrar. Membership stood at 317 at August 31, 1989, with a registered capacity of 550.

Key activities included public lectures at the London Business School from September to June, with thanks extended to Manfred Cassirer for organizing them. BUFORA, along with the Mutual UFO Network and the International Committee for UFO Research, sponsored the International UFO Congress at the London Business School from July 14-16, 1989. Preliminary plans for a similar event in July 1991 were underway. The report also references separate reports from the Director of Investigations, Director of Research, and Director of Publications. No specific training activities were held, and the development of a Correspondence Course was further delayed.

The Council of Management members for August 31, 1989, were listed as David Clarke, Manfred Cassirer, Paul Fuller, Stephen Gamble, Phillip Mantle, Jenny Randles, Simon Rose, John Spencer, Arnold West, and Mike Wootten. Andy Roberts also served during the year but stood down in August. No members received remuneration. Appreciation was expressed for the help of James Danby, the Membership Secretary. Several Council members were retiring by rotation: David Clarke, Stephen Gamble, Phillip Mantle, and Arnold West, who offered themselves for re-election.

Treasurer's Report 1989

The Honorary Treasurer, Simon Rose, presented the Balance Sheet and Statement of Accounts. Income had exceeded expenditure, partly due to a successful congress that recovered BUFORA's contribution and the 'phenomenal success' of publications, particularly 'Controversy of the Circles'. Expenses were high, notably the Newsclipping service costing nearly £900.00. Subscriptions remained steady, and the lecture program paid for itself. The financial year ended with a healthier balance, and the Treasurer urged members to strive to increase the membership base.

Report of the Auditor to the Members Year Ended 31st August 1989

N. O'Brien, F.C.A., Chartered Accountant, reported that the financial statements were audited in accordance with approved Auditing Standards. The company's system of control was dependent on director involvement, and independent confirmation was not always available, with assurances from directors accepted. The financial statements, prepared under the historic cost convention, were deemed to give a true and fair view of the company's affairs and comply with the Companies Act 1985.

Report of the Research Department for Period Ended 31/8/89

S. Gamble served as Director of Research. The department's primary work involved research into UFO phenomena and technical support for field investigations. Two research committee meetings were held, and representatives attended national investigations committee meetings. Mike Hudson continued work on computerised indexing of case reports, with additional coding by Ernest Still, Raymond Shaw, Andy Roberts, and Philip Mantle. Steve Gamble began investigating data transfer from Campbell Systems 'Masterfile' to an expanded system on the Amstrad PCW. Paul Fuller continued work on circular damage to cereal crops, with updates in BUFORA publications, assisted by members like Ernest Still, Clive Potter, and Raymond Shaw. Nigel Smith stepped down as head of the photographic and traces group, succeeded by Roger Chinery, assisted by Steve Gamble. Paul Fuller monitored computer use for UFO research. Two issues of the Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena (JTAP) were published, with the March 1989 issue being the last; JTAP merged with BUFORA Bulletin to form 'UFO Times' in May 1989. Ken Phillips worked on establishing a translators panel. Mike Wootten, assisted by Gaynor Sunderland, worked on refurbishing case report files, with a decision to centralize reports. A joint research project with the Northamptonshire UFO Research Centre was initiated to catalogue UFO reports from that region. A list of 18 individuals who assisted Steve Gamble in the research department was provided.

Director of Investigations Report

The Nation Investigations Committee met twice, expanding its team to 26 accredited investigators, including work in Ireland. Links were strengthened with groups like IUN and NUFORC in Northampton. The department's photographic analyst, Nigel Smith, left, with Roger Chinery taking over. The primary source of case reports was press cuttings, with 885 press stories on UFOs recorded, a significant increase. Reports also came from authors, books, and BUFORA's own publications. Liaison was maintained with police, media, and science channels, and even the MOD. The report mentions a Staffordshire Newspaper accusing BUFORA of a 'cover-up'.

A major activity was 'circle mania', following the publication of Colin Andrews and Pat Delgardo's book on crop circles. BUFORA's work on crop circles, via Paul Fuller, was also published and sold out its first three print runs. The NIC believes crop circle research offers insights into atmospheric phenomena and UFO investigation. Dave Clarke and Andy Roberts published research on 'Pennine lights'. BUFORA published its second 'Case History' on the Peter Day movie film case. The report notes a recent lack of impressive cases in Britain, with most sightings being 'lights in the sky', and a scarcity of car stops, physical traces, or landings with entities. The predicted wave of abductions has not materialized, though 'Communion: The Movie' might influence this. Over 100 files were added to the database, and interesting cases would feature in 'UFO Times'.

The NIC also fueled BUFORA's 'UFOCALL' service, providing commentary on key cases, including the 'UFO attack' on the Space Shuttle and the Voronezh landing. BUFORA gained media attention on ITN and BBC regarding the Voronezh incident. Circle publicity was achieved in publications like the Sunday Times and Country Life. BUFORA also made guest appearances on TV programs.

Director of Publications Report

The 1988/89 financial period was described as productive, active, and fiscally successful. The launch of BUFORA's new magazine 'UFO Times' in May 1989, a 28-page glossy bi-monthly journal, was highlighted. Every issue had sold out, with a target to exceed a print run of 1000. Other publications included 'Controversy of the Circles' by Jenny Randles and Paul Fuller, 'UFO World 1989' compiled by Jenny Randles, and 'Fire in the Sky', the first in a new series of in-depth case histories, also compiled by Jenny Randles. The electronic publication UFOCALL, launched in February 1989 with British Telecom, proved popular and income-producing, with thanks to Jenny Randles for its weekly updates. Thanks were extended to numerous contributors.

Skywatcher: Ulysses, into the Unknown

This section introduces the joint ESA/NASA project Ulysses, a spacecraft mission targeting the Sun's solar poles. Compared to the Giotto mission that probed Halley's Comet, Ulysses aims to investigate the Sun's poles. The mission is described as a long and perilous voyage requiring significant energy, utilizing Jupiter's gravitational force for a 'sling shot' trajectory. Originally, two probes were planned, but financial difficulties led to a single spacecraft mission. The mission is a joint ESA/NASA venture, with the spacecraft being European and carrying nine experiments. It will be launched by the shuttle, with the mission lasting approximately five years. The report details the spacecraft's path, including passes over the South and North solar poles, and its power source (Radioisotopic Thermoelectric Generator). Ulysses will be the fastest man-made object, and communication signals will take almost an hour to travel between the probe and Earth when at its furthest point. The Deep Space Network will receive signals.

The Hertfordshire 'Mowing Devil' Woodcut: A 17th Century Circle Report?

By Jenny Randles. This article discusses a 'Mowing Devil' woodcut from a four-page pamphlet dated August 22, 1678, discovered by Betty Puttick. The woodcut and accompanying text describe an incident where a one-and-a-half acre field of oats was harvested by a supernatural force, described as appearing 'as if it had been all of a flame'. The text suggests the attribution of devilish causes was made after the fact and implies the resultant pattern of the crop was unusually configured and neat, fitting the description of crop circles. The schematic illustration on the woodcut further emphasizes circles, indicating a spiral pattern, potentially depicting a crop circle about six to seven metres in diameter.

Case - Case - Case

This section details two sightings from February 29, 1978. The first, in Benefield, Northants, involved Mr. F and his daughter seeing a bright greenish-blue, almost fluorescent light or beam that appeared to be coming closer. They reported it to the local paper, and a police officer confirmed seeing it but dared not make it public. RAF Alconbury was the only airbase to take notice. The second sighting, in Pytchley near Kettering, involved a woman seeing a large white glow low on the horizon, described as like a large electric lightbulb. The evaluation suggests Venus, low in the southern sky, may have been the stimulus for the second sighting, and possibly the first, through atmospheric phenomena. The investigation was by Ernie Still (NUFORC), and the evaluation by Jenny Randles.

Other Sections

The issue also includes a list of donations received from September 1, 1988, to August 31, 1989, and advertisements for 'UFO BRIGANTIA' magazine and 'SKOOBOO' secondhand bookshop. A note regarding the erratic publishing timetable of 'UFO Times' due to the editor's impending marriage is also present.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO research and investigation, publication of findings, and historical cases. BUFORA's stance is clearly to promote unbiased scientific research into UFO phenomena, maintain a comprehensive archive of cases, and disseminate information through its publications and events. There is a strong emphasis on documenting and analyzing UFO sightings and related phenomena, including crop circles and historical accounts. The magazine also covers space exploration relevant to understanding phenomena in space. The editorial tone is informative and dedicated to advancing the study of ufology.

Title: UFO Times
Issue Date: August 1989
Publisher: BUFORA Ltd
Country: United Kingdom
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of UFO Times features a cover story titled "Significant Evidence," focusing on the historical "Mowing Devil" crop circle incident from 1678. The magazine includes a detailed examination of a pamphlet and woodcut describing this event, exploring its potential authenticity and its implications for understanding modern crop circle phenomena. The issue also contains a letters section that delves into debates surrounding psychic research, the nature of evidence, and the intersection of physics with paranormal claims.

The 'Mowing Devil' and Historical Crop Circles

The lead article discusses a pamphlet from August 1989 that brought attention to a "Mowing Devil" tale, dating back to 1678. This story, accompanied by a woodcut, describes a farmer who, in a dispute over payment for cutting oats, swore that the devil would mow the crop. The next morning, the oats were found neatly mown, attributed to the devil. The article suggests that this incident, occurring within weeks of the woodcut's publication, caused a stir in Hertfordshire and implies a degree of authenticity, noting it was "very rare if not exactly unprecedented."

Betty Puttick's revelation is mentioned as bringing significance to the idea that crop circles have historical precedents interpreted through different cultural lenses. The article posits that a meteorological theory for crop circles would expect similar phenomena to manifest throughout history. The absence of such historical accounts would be difficult to justify for those seeking natural explanations.

Jennifer Westwood of the Folklore Society is cited as knowing of other stories about vortices creating strange effects, which were interpreted demonically or through fairy-lore in the Middle Ages. This opens the possibility of finding other folk tales embodying circles data. The author initiated inquiries through the Folklore Society and wrote an article about the quest for such material and questions regarding the authenticity of the 'Mowing Devil' story.

Verification of the 'Mowing Devil' Woodcut

The article details the verification process for the "Mowing Devil" woodcut. Bob Skinner found an account in "Witchcraft in Hertfordshire" by Lewis Evans, reproduced in "Bygone Hertfordshire" edited by William Andrews, which dated the woodcut to 1898. This verified the antiquity of the woodcut to at least before other known modern or semi-historical circle accounts.

The single-page account from 1898 quotes relevant passages from the woodcut and provides an accurate description of its key features without passing judgment on the story's status. Further research led to W.B. Gerish's "Hertfordshire Folk Lore," which includes a ten-page account with a complete reproduction of the woodcut. Gerish, considered a reliable expert, refers folklore to the spread of Nonconformism in the late seventeenth century. He notes that while many such stories might be fables, if they did happen, they were highly distorted. Gerish describes the "Mowing Devil" case as "unique" and "purely imaginary," written to convey a moral. However, he also notes that the woodcut reproduction is from one of two contemporary editions, with only one possessing the illustration of the devil mowing oats, satisfying him as to its genuine authenticity as a seventeenth-century item.

The author acknowledges that Gerish wrote his assessment eighty years prior and that with current knowledge of crop circles, he might reach a different conclusion.

Letters Section: Debates on Psychic Phenomena and Physics

The "Letters" section features several correspondents debating Steuart Campbell's views, particularly his assertion that "There is no evidence that so-called psychic phenomena exists."

Michael Scott, BSc, Edinburgh, argues that many knowledgeable sceptics accept that there is a case for psychic phenomena, including mediumship, and that the evidence is comparable to that for UFOs. He also discusses the concept of parallel universes, suggesting that mediumship demonstrates their existence and that quantum physics, with its wave mechanics, provides a theoretical basis for their separation.

Margaret Newson, Wetherby, agrees with the comments regarding the structure of the universe and criticizes the "mystical fraternity" for latching onto quantum mechanics. She disagrees that reputable scientists have nothing to do with psychics, citing figures like Sir William Crookes, Sir Oliver Lodge, and John Logie Baird.

Aaron Short, Merseyside, also disagrees with Campbell, stating that reputable scientists have not ignored psychics. He mentions Sir William Crookes's work and argues that if materialisation is not paranormal, then he doesn't know what is. He also quotes Niels Bohr on quantum physics, suggesting that a lack of shock indicates a lack of understanding.

Lee Butchart, Bristol, challenges Campbell's attitudes towards scientists and psychic researchers, emphasizing that the perceived 'normal' world is a deception and that quantum physics is inherently shocking.

Bill Dillon supports the idea that psychic elements are compatible with current physics, noting that while physics doesn't prove psychic phenomena, spin-off conclusions from new physicists provide a theoretical framework. He refutes the claim that reputable scientists avoid psychics, citing Sir William Crookes as an example of a scientist who proved materialisation.

T.W. Clark, Frimley, Surrey, criticizes Jenny Randles and others for discrediting amateurs like Colin Andrews. He also points out an error in a "Stop Press" item regarding Tornado aircraft testing locations, stating that RAF Walton does not exist.

Comment Times Four: Radar and Airbase Accuracy

This section addresses comments from readers regarding UFO reports.

Comment 1 (Harry Harris): Concurs with a previous report on an "M1 video," suggesting that observed lights were likely aircraft in a holding area near Heathrow, given the direction of the main "stacks."

Comment 2: Questions a report about an object seen flying in line with the runway at RAF Brampton, stating that the airbase does not have an airfield or runway.

Answer 1: Agrees with the conclusion regarding the M1 video case.

Answer 2: States that the information about RAF Brampton has been passed to investigators, admitting fault for mishearing the airbase name over the telephone.

Answer 3: Responds to a disagreement with criticisms relayed by Jenny Randles, challenging the commenter to provide concrete evidence. It defends the work of Andrews and Delgardo but criticizes their "mysterious force" theory as less credible than Dr. Meaden's hypotheses.

Answer 4: Confirms that information has been passed to investigators, acknowledging the error in naming the airbase.

BUFORA Activities and Publications

The "DIARY" section lists upcoming BUFORA lectures in London and Bradford, with dates, speakers, and topics such as "Project Pennine," "Circles," and the "R.A.F. St Mawgan Case." Details for attending BUFORA lectures are provided, including location, time, and how to obtain lecture programmes.

"LATEST BUFORA PUBLICATIONS" lists several titles available for purchase, including "Controversy of the Circles" (£4.20), "UFO World 1989" (£2.25), "Fire in the Sky" (£1.50), and "UFO Lexicon" (£5.30). Ordering information for BUFORA Ltd is provided.

"MIDNIGHT BOOKS" advertises secondhand books on UFOs, Space, Fortean phenomena, and Earth Mysteries, with an address and phone number in Swindon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the historical investigation of alleged UFO phenomena, particularly crop circles, and the ongoing debate about the nature of evidence and scientific acceptance of paranormal claims. The magazine appears to adopt a stance that encourages critical examination of historical accounts and contemporary sightings, while also acknowledging the complexities of physics and the potential for phenomena beyond current scientific understanding. The inclusion of letters from various perspectives highlights the diverse and often contentious nature of UFO research and related fields like psychic phenomena.

The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, presenting historical cases like the "Mowing Devil" and facilitating discussions on topics ranging from quantum physics to radar interpretations of sightings. The publication of BUFORA's activities and related literature suggests a strong connection to a ufological community actively engaged in research and dissemination of information.