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UFO Times - No 31 - No date 1994
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Title: UFO TIMES Issue: 31 Date: 1994 Publisher: BUFORA Ltd Country: United Kingdom Price: £2.00
Magazine Overview
Title: UFO TIMES
Issue: 31
Date: 1994
Publisher: BUFORA Ltd
Country: United Kingdom
Price: £2.00
This issue of UFO TIMES, number 31, is dated 1994 and published by BUFORA Ltd. It features a prominent editorial by Mike Wootten, discussing the need for BUFORA to 'do ufology' and improve its services to members, including revitalizing the research department and expanding its lecture program. The magazine has increased its page count to 24 to provide more value.
Contents
The issue includes a range of articles and reports:
- The Gordon Faulkner Interview: An in-depth interview with Gordon Faulkner, who discusses the 1965 UFO photograph he took in Warminster, denying claims by Roger Hooton that the photo was faked.
- Allergies and Aliens - The Visitation Experience: A review of a booklet by Budden that proposes allergies as a potential explanation for some close encounter phenomena.
- The Final Secret of Free Energy: An article by T. E. Beardon exploring theoretical concepts of energy and potential in vacuum physics.
- Investigations Diary: Reports on UFO/UAP sightings from the Wales and West Country (March 1993) and Chester (late 1993/early 1994).
- UFO Snapshots
- Readers Write
- BUFORA Information
Editorial: Doing Ufology
Editor Mike Wootten outlines his vision for BUFORA, acknowledging past shortcomings in adhering to the association's aims and objectives. He criticizes the council for being "lethargic" and too focused on internal arguments rather than UFO research. Wootten aims to overhaul BUFORA, making it more responsive and providing greater value to members. Key priorities include revitalizing the research department to handle case evaluations and photographic evidence analysis, and expanding the lecture program beyond London. He also stresses the importance of intergroup cooperation with other UK UFO organizations, believing a lack of such cooperation has hindered progress in understanding the UFO phenomenon. Wootten is determined to cut bureaucracy and channel resources into direct research. He invites members to share their expectations for their £20.00 membership fee.
A Bigger Read
To enhance member value, UFO TIMES has increased its page count from 20 to 24. This expansion is attributed to a "more favourable deal" with the new printer, Information Management. The editorial team also plans to broaden the ufological topics covered in the coming year.
The Gordon Faulkner Interview: 26th April 1994
John Spencer interviews Gordon Faulkner regarding the famous 1965 photograph of a UFO, nicknamed 'The Thing', taken in Warminster. Faulkner's photo, though not particularly impressive, became a symbol for the town's UFO concentration. In 1992, Roger Hooton claimed he and Faulkner had faked the photo. Spencer had previously tried to contact Arthur Shuttlewood, the reporter who initially handled the photo, but received no substantive reply. Spencer finally located Faulkner, who runs a microlight flying school. Faulkner maintains the photograph is genuine and denies knowing Hooton or conspiring with him, stating Hooton is a liar. Faulkner recounts his life since 1965, including periods in Australia, England, and Holland, and his career in flying. He describes the photo-taking incident as seeing the object suddenly appear, moving fast and silently, and felt compelled to capture it. He states he received about £50 for the photo's publication in The Daily Mirror and that the negatives are likely lost. Faulkner has not seen other UFOs and is reluctant to speculate on what his UFO was, though he found it to be large and possibly further away than initially perceived. He expresses little interest in UFOs now, having been troubled by people who pestered him in 1965.
Allergies and Aliens - The Visitation Experience
This section reviews a booklet by Budden, which is a precursor to a larger work. Budden's hypothesis suggests that hallucinations caused by allergies could explain the phenomena experienced in close encounters. The reviewer acknowledges this as a testable and universal hypothesis, noting that it could account for the 'absurdities' in some encounters. However, the reviewer points out that this hypothesis may not fully explain hard-core evidence like radar-visuals, genuine photos, and film images, which are difficult to attribute solely to electromagnetic-induced hallucinations. Despite misgivings, the reviewer encourages considering alternative hypotheses and notes the growing threat of electromagnetic pollution. The booklet is recommended for its value, being well-written and non-jargonistic.
The Final Secret of Free Energy
Authored by T. E. Beardon, this article (Part VI) delves into the principles of free energy. It defines potential gradient as 'trapped excess energy density' that is free for the taking, arising from the VPF (virtual photon flux) exchange between the vacuum and charged particles. The core principle is that one can extract this energy without depleting the source, provided that work is not done within the source itself, which would 'close the gate'. The article clarifies definitions of energy, EM energy, static and dynamic energy, scalar potential, and vector potential. It introduces 'pseudo-equations' to explain the concepts, distinguishing between 'trapped volts' (potential) and 'dissipated volts' (voltage), and discusses the continuous replenishment of potential by the vacuum, likening it to dipping water from a restless ocean.
Investigations Diary
This section compiles reports of UFO/UAP sightings:
- The Wales and West Country Sightings (30th/31st March 1993): Doug Cooper reports on several sightings, including two bright objects flying NW to SE, possibly remnants of a Russian space rocket. Similar objects were seen over Bristol and across an area from Cornwall to South Yorkshire. The implication is that an 'unknown' object was flying across the Westcountry. EVENT 'C' describes two bright, orange lights seen by fishermen near Bridgewater, Somerset, which turned out to be two bright white lights from the rear of silent objects resembling a 'large catamaran'. Cows in an adjacent field became restless and gathered in a circle. EVENT 'D' covers multiple witnesses reporting objects hovering or flying over Somerset and N. Devon.
- Other Sightings:
- Mrs. Susan Wyatt observed two glowing, white/orange objects hovering NW of Kingstone-St-Mary.
- Geoffry Thomas saw a triangular formation of three brightly lit, self-luminous objects, each larger than a star, for over three hours.
- P.C. Filer reported seeing a large craft resembling "two Concordes flying side-by-side and joined together", with cabin-like lights, moving SE.
- Mr. Ian Warrick observed a brightly lit object, about the size of a 'Zippo' lighter with six rows of lights, moving at jet aircraft speed.
- Mr. Peter Heal saw two white lights flying parallel to each other, moving fast and silently.
- Mr. Vaughn Vdall saw two groups of lights flying alongside each other, forming triangular formations.
- Several reports from Chester in January 1994 are detailed, including sightings of white lights moving in circles, a bright orange star-like object with multiple lights (with alleged telepathic contact), two large balls of light followed by a triangle, a singular bright light, a cigar-shaped object with white, red, and blue lights, a yellow oval-shaped object, a grey 'line' that changed size, and an "egg-shaped" object with a glowing red square.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are the ongoing debate about the authenticity of UFO evidence (exemplified by the Faulkner photo controversy), the reporting of numerous contemporary UFO/UAP sightings across the UK, and the exploration of unconventional theories such as the link between allergies and alien encounters, and the physics of 'free energy'. The editorial stance, as articulated by Mike Wootten, is one of proactive engagement with ufology, emphasizing the need for rigorous research, inter-organizational cooperation, and a reduction in bureaucratic overhead to better serve the membership and advance the field of study.
This issue of Ufo Times (Issue 11) presents a collection of witness reports, investigative articles, and reader correspondence related to UFO phenomena. The content spans various sightings, potential government projects, and theoretical discussions within the UFO community.
UFO Sightings and Investigations
The magazine features numerous individual sighting reports from across the UK and Australia. These include:
- 94-210: A bright white light seen falling from the sky in Peterborough, UK, evaluated as a possible shooting star.
- 94-211: A white light observed in Kings Lynn, Norfolk, UK, described as stationary at first, then moving, and shaped like a policeman's helmet with a light in the middle, evaluated as a possible helicopter.
- 94-212: In Southampton, UK, red and white lights were seen dropping from the sky, moving in a half-circle, and then vanishing. Insufficient data was available for a definitive evaluation.
- 94-213: In Menstone, Leeds, UK, a strange, very bright light, described as descending slowly like a big headlight, was seen over Reva Hill and blinked out, evaluated as a possible flare.
- 94-214: Between Linwood and Lissington, Lincs., UK, a triangular arrangement of nine lights was observed flying in an easterly direction, evaluated as aircraft.
- 94-215: In Brinklow, W. Midlands, UK, a mass of coloured lights in a huge circular formation was observed, accompanied by a tremendous sound and car alarms, evaluated as aircraft.
- 94-216: In Cropwell Bishop, Notts., UK, a number of large, stationary grey/white discs were observed in the sky, evaluated as astronomical objects.
- 94-217: In Nordelph, Norfolk, UK, a red and white light was seen in the sky, dropping out of the sky before coming to a halt.
- North London, UK: A brightly-lit, disc-shaped object, luminous from all parts with flashing lights, hovered motionless and soundless over rooftops, evaluated as an unknown technology, possibly extraterrestrial.
- Broome, Western Australia: Multiple witnesses reported seeing a crescent-shaped, misty object with a droning sound, travelling at a steady pace, with no conventional explanation found.
Covert Projects: The Sea Shadow
An extensive article by Dr. Harley A. Byrd details the US government's 'Sea Shadow' project. This is described as a secretive, ultra-secret 'Black Project' involving a large, black barge-ship, a 4,700-ton vessel originally built by the CIA in the early 1970s. The Sea Shadow is a stealth ship on stilts, designed for exceptional stability in heavy seas, with features to reduce wake and evade radar. The article suggests that the Sea Shadow was involved in operations in Icelandic and Arctic regions, possibly monitoring underwater UFO operations and bases, and was towing an instrument barge for this purpose. It also mentions reports of NATO ships tracking UFO alien craft in the area of Iceland and Norway.
UFO Newfile and Campaigns
The 'Bufora UFO newfile' section highlights recent UFO news from the UK and abroad, including police sightings and mystery lights. The 'Alien Acknowledgement Campaign' (ORTK) is featured, detailing their 'Are You Aware' lobbying of the MOD and House of Commons. The campaign aimed to raise awareness of the UFO presence and encourage comments on their 'Are You Aware' document. Media attention for this campaign was significant, with coverage on BBC and commercial radio stations.
Readers Write
This section includes several letters from readers:
- Lesmond Fearon inquires about data on super technology, negative mass, UFOs crossing time zones, Project Aquarius, and Project Plato.
- Steuart Campbell writes to correct Malcolm Robinson's misrepresentation of facts regarding the Bransby Clarke photograph, asserting his explanation of a mirage is valid and Robinson has not explained his dismissal of it.
- Ron Bishop poses the question of why non-witnesses believe in UFOs. The response emphasizes the vastness of the universe and the improbability of Earth being the only intelligent life. It also touches on the concept of interstellar travel and discusses the nature of consciousness, refuting the idea of an afterlife and suggesting UFOs might use magnetic principles for flight and advanced G-force tolerance.
- Allan Brown asks about anti-gravity principles, referencing Professor Laithwaite.
- David I. Norman expresses shock at Mr. Beardon's article on 'Free Electrical Energy', criticizing his definitions and the concept of infinite energy sources, and questioning the inclusion of such articles in UFO Times.
- Anders Liljegren from AFU Newsletter provides corrections regarding the source of two Swedish investigation reports previously published in UFO Times.
Special Features
- Allergies and Aliens: A book by Albert Budden is advertised, presenting a novel approach to understanding alien contact/abduction experiences, suggesting abductees develop electrical hypersensitivity and undergo the CE4 experience as a response to electrical/electronic pollution.
- N.I.C. Meeting: Announcement of the next National Investigations Committee meeting in London, with a suggestion to hold future meetings in Northern England.
- Witness Support Group Coordinator Resigns: Ken Phillips has resigned as coordinator of the WSG, and George Spurgeon has taken over.
- BUFORA's 1995 International UFO Congress: Announcement of the congress titled 'UFOs EXAMINING THE EVIDENCE'.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue include the reporting and investigation of UFO sightings, the exploration of potential government cover-ups and secret projects (like the Sea Shadow), and the intersection of UFO phenomena with religious and scientific theories. The editorial stance, as indicated by the 'Ed's comments' and the inclusion of various reader letters, appears to be open to diverse perspectives, including skeptical critiques and theological interpretations, while also aiming to present a serious image of UFO research. The magazine encourages reader participation through letters and subscriptions, and promotes the work of organizations like BUFORA and the NIC.
This issue of Ufo Times, dated Spring 1994, features a prominent cover story titled "THE XENOBIOTIC PRESENCE" by Albert Budden. The magazine, published by BUFORA Ltd, focuses on UFO phenomena and related research.
The Xenobiotic Presence: Alien Abductions Re-examined
Albert Budden's article, "THE XENOBIOTIC PRESENCE," presents a controversial theory that alien abduction experiences are not genuine encounters with extraterrestrial beings. Instead, Budden posits that these are vivid, hallucinatory, dramatised forms of out-of-body experiences. He links these experiences to a condition he terms "electrical hypersensitivity" and "multiple allergy," which he argues are caused by lifelong exposure to electromagnetic fields from various environmental sources. These sources include transmitting radio and TV antennae, pylons, electrical substations, mobile phone systems, and even geological faults in the Earth's crust.
Budden explains that individuals become more susceptible to these "encounter experiences" after undergoing a significant "electrical initiation" in their formative years, such as a lightning strike or electrocution. He refers to "electromagnetically active locations," identified by the World Health Organisation as 'hot spots,' as places where individuals are more likely to experience these phenomena.
He asserts that the modern global phenomenon of reported physical abductions is a misinterpretation of data, diverting attention from the real hazard to the health and quality of life of abductees. Budden criticizes those who propagate belief systems about alien intelligences, stating it is "grossly irresponsible" and detrimental to the health of sufferers who need medical attention.
Xenobiotics: Alien Influences on the Body
The article introduces the concept of "xenobiotics," defined as artificial electrical and electromagnetic fields that impinge upon the body's cells and tissues. These fields are perceived as alien to the body's internal chemistry and the organic electrical activity of the nervous system and brain, destabilizing regulatory systems. This destabilization affects glandular function, neurotransmitters, and the central and autonomic nervous systems, leading to allergies and free radicals.
When individuals become electrically hypersensitive, their minds may project communications about their dysfunctional state as hallucinations or apparitions. These can escalate into vivid, lifelike scenarios involving aliens, typically depicted as entering their homes and taking them to an alien realm for medical examination and operation. Budden argues that physical injuries sometimes reported after these experiences are not psychosomatic but are direct results of exposure to electromagnetic fields.
He provides examples: one abductee experienced a sensation of alien fingers gripping her wrist, leading to a red weal that peeled like sunburn. This was linked to an electromagnetic hot spot caused by the intersection of microwave communication beams, where metal in her watch strap concentrated the electrical field. Another individual suffered electrical burns on her side, correlating with an abduction experience where she felt floated out of her room and encountered an alien with a "silver pencil" emitting a gas-flame, which caused a glancing burn.
Budden concludes that numerous examples of physical trauma in abduction experiences can be traced to the xenobiotic presence and effect of electrical or electromagnetic field sources on electrically hypersensitive individuals. He proposes a bioelectrical/thermoelectrical mechanism to explain the juxtaposition of lifelike alien visitation experiences and subsequent physical trauma.
The Irresponsibility of ETH Adherents
Budden criticizes the widespread "flying saucer mythology" and the "irresponsibility of ETH adherents" (Extraterrestrial Hypothesis). He states that the idea has captured the imagination so vigorously that even people in authority propagate it. He describes this as a "tangled web of modern folklore, hearsay, delusion, misinterpretation, wish-fulfilment, sublimated religion and downright fantasy."
He firmly states that "there are no extraterrestrials, interdimensional travellers or alien intelligences of any kind involved in these experiences." Instead, he suggests this phenomenon is a "somewhat sinister, area of study for psychologists, psychiatrists, general practitioners, neurologists, counsellors, clinical ecologists or anyone who is interested in this strange and bizarre phenomenon largely brought about by electrical and electronic pollution which occurs as an unwanted side-effect of our modern, technological culture."
Budden anticipates being labeled a "secret government agent" or "government mole" by ufologists who believe in extraterrestrial involvement, but he refutes this, stating he is a lone investigator working informally with a medically-oriented researcher, Anne Silk.
BUFORA: Organization and Aims
The magazine also provides details about BUFORA (The British UFO Research Association Limited), founded in 1964. Its registered office is BM BUFORA, London WCIN 3XX. The issue lists the BUFORA Central Office contacts, including the President (Manfred Cassirer), Vice President (Philip Mantle), and other key personnel.
The aims of BUFORA are:
1. To encourage, promote and conduct unbiased scientific research of unidentified flying object (UFO) phenomena throughout the United Kingdom.
2. To collect and disseminate evidence and data relating to unidentified flying objects (UFOs).
3. To co-ordinate UFO research throughout the United Kingdom and to co-operate with others engaged in such research throughout the world.
Membership is open to all who support the association's aims. The publication also mentions member societies and associate groups, including BFSB and the Northamptonshire UFO Research Centre and Skyscan.
Publications and Research
Information is provided regarding the Director of Publications, Mike Wootten, and the Press Officer, Philip Mantle. The magazine also details the BUFORA Code of Practice for witness confidentiality, emphasizing that names and addresses of witnesses will not be published unless they are already in the public domain.
The National Investigations Committee (NIC) is mentioned as coordinating investigation initiatives, with a 24-hour UFO hotline available. Research Grants are also available to groups or individuals wishing to conduct objective research.
Book Listings
A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a "MAIN UFO LIST OF BOOKS FOR SALE," compiled by Lionel Beer (Spacelink Books). This list includes a wide range of UFO-related books, categorized into "POPULAR PAPERBACKS," "QUALITY PAPERBACKS," "HARDBACKS," and "LARGE HARDBACKS (A4 SIZE)." Prices are listed in British Pounds (£), and postage and packing details are provided. Several titles are highlighted with a star (*), indicating additions to the list. Magazines such as "FORTEAN TIMES," "SPACELINK (UK)," "SPACEQUEST (UK)," and "UFO AFRINEWS" are also available for purchase.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The primary theme of this issue is the reinterpretation of alien abduction phenomena through a scientific and medical lens, specifically focusing on environmental factors and electromagnetic hypersensitivity. Albert Budden's article strongly advocates for a non-extraterrestrial explanation, emphasizing the physical and psychological impacts of modern technological pollution. The editorial stance, as represented by the content and the inclusion of BUFORA's aims, leans towards rigorous, unbiased scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, while also acknowledging the importance of witness confidentiality and the availability of research resources. The magazine appears to be a platform for diverse viewpoints within the ufology community, as indicated by the open submission policy for papers and the disclaimer that views expressed do not necessarily represent those of the editor or BUFORA Ltd.