BUFORA Bulletin2 - No.13 - Sep Oct 1999

Magazine Overview

Title: BUFORA BULLETIN
Issue: No. 13
Date: September/October 1999
Publisher: BUFORA (British UFO Research Association)
Country: United Kingdom

This issue of the BUFORA Bulletin, titled 'UFOs Under the microscope', delves into various aspects of UFO research, the media's role in shaping public perception, and the organization's ongoing projects and debates within the UFO community.

Editorial: Five Hundred – Not Out

The editorial celebrates the upcoming five hundredth edition of UFOCALL, a service that has been running for approximately ten years and has been instrumental in providing updated UFO information. Jenny Randles is credited with editing and producing UFOCALL since its inception. The editorial draws a parallel between UFOCALL and the earlier BT Prestel service, noting that while Prestel was a precursor to the internet, it was difficult to update and did not gain traction. UFOCALL, however, proved revolutionary due to its frequent updates and has been a valuable source of income for BUFORA. The editorial extends thanks to Jenny Randles for her extensive work on UFOCALL.

Contents Overview

The table of contents outlines the articles and features in this issue:

• Editorial: (Page 3)
• From Here and There: (Page 4) - Discusses Naked Eye Satellites and National Skywatch.
• Research & Investigation Review: (Page 5) - Details ongoing projects and the 'rolling progress' publication strategy.
• UFOs, Paranormal & the Media: (Page 10) - An article by Anthony Eccles examining media portrayal.
• APRA Recent Cases: (Page 15)
• Historical Viewpoint: (Page 17)
• The Halls of Residence Case: (Page 19)
• Lecture Summary: (Page 22)
• Forthcoming Events: (Page 24)
• Lectures: (Page 28)

From Here and There

This section covers two topics: Naked Eye Satellites and National Skywatch.

Naked Eye Satellites: The author mentions the Disco ball satellite of project Starshine and provides a website (http://www2.gsoc.dlr.de) for details on visible satellite passes. The Iridium satellites are highlighted as a network of about seventy communications satellites in low earth orbit. These satellites have solar panels and large, flat antennae that catch sunlight, creating bright reflections ('Iridium Flares') that can be seen from Earth. Some flares are exceptionally bright, potentially visible in daylight. Typically, two or three nocturnal flares are visible daily, with a daylight flare occurring approximately every five days. This information is deemed valuable for investigators and skywatchers.

National Skywatch: A reminder is issued for the next skywatch event on 18th-19th September, with further details available in Bulletin 11.

Eclipse And UFOs: The article notes the prevalence of UFO discussions around the August eclipse. While some claim more UFOs are seen during eclipses, the author suspects this is due to more people observing the sky rather than a genuine increase in phenomena. A case is presented of a witness in Cornwall who saw a triangle of orange lights flash on at the moment of totality during the eclipse. The witness initially considered street lights but later discounted this, finding no other explanation. This case is being passed for investigation.

Research & Investigation Review

This section outlines BUFORA's approach to research and investigation, emphasizing a 'Rolling Progress' project model. The goal is to conduct fundamental work, publish preliminary results, invite input from other ufologists and organizations worldwide, and then release updated publications. This method aims to avoid withholding research for too long and to integrate diverse input. Material can be published sooner, allowing for wider involvement. Projects will continue to evolve and grow. Publications will be disseminated through the BUFORA Bulletin, website, special publications, and links on other UFO websites. The aim is to broaden the scope to include contributions from outside the UFO community and to package projects for universities, colleges, and schools.

BUFORA has conducted numerous significant research projects behind the scenes. To increase visibility and encourage assistance, they plan to expand the boundaries of these projects. The organization also aims to address issues of personal invective and non-ufological debate, bringing ufology back to a more rational state.

The Projects: Several advanced rolling projects are being sent out for input, including:

• The Men in Black Project
• The BOLIDE Project
• 'Hughie Green' publication (summary analysis of his reports of the 1940s)

Projects with early-draft publication expected include:

• Updated vehicle interference report
• Pilots project
• Historic cases project

BUFORA Research has 16 major projects underway, including:

• Pilots Project
• BOLIDE Project
• Case Index
• Historic UFOs predating flight
• Crashed Saucer Studies (Tracking UK witnesses of saucer crashes, Alleged Roswell Film Studies)
• Men In Black
• Men In White
• Witness Studies
• Vehicle Interference Update
• Sky Watching Initiative
• Instrumented Detection
• Astronaut Cases
• Hypnosis Study
• Project Warminster
• The Psi UFO Interface
• Electromagnetic Anomalies Cause UFO Reports

Four new projects are being launched, focusing on controversial debating points in ufology, including:

• Memory Retrieval Project Alternative to ETH guide Project Censorship Project
• Close Encounter Study Project

These four projects are considered central to Ufology and are prioritized for input requests.

Memory Retrieval Project

This project is considered compelling due to critical issues related to close encounter cases and UFO research. It aims to determine if close encounter experiences are connected to the UFO subject and if hypnosis and memory retrieval methods have contributed to the 'abduction mythology'. The project will examine the safety and value of regression hypnosis for eliciting accurate truths about close encounters. BUFORA has a long-standing moratorium on hypnosis use, and this project seeks to provide investigators with data to examine, reinforcing their commitment to the moratorium. The debate will include medical professionals, advocates, and dissenters. The project will examine all forms of memory retrieval, including hypnosis, and explore alternatives, seeking to set out the best evidence for and against hypnosis and to suggest alternatives with examined pros and cons. This is expected to be a rolling project over several years.

Alternative to ETH Guide Project

This project addresses the need for explanations for close encounter experiences, which have increased dramatically. BUFORA and other organizations receive many such reports. The goal is to produce a well-structured document or leaflet, drawing from documented experiences and research worldwide. This document will offer witnesses reasoned alternatives to the extraterrestrial hypothesis (ETH), which has been heavily influenced by media. It will not aim to refute the ETH but to present it as only one possibility among others. The question of what such a leaflet should contain is posed.

Censorship Project

BUFORA has been debating censorship in Ufology, a divisive issue that has split the community. The debate centers on balancing freedom of speech and providing members with diverse ideas against the responsibility to ensure research adheres to BUFORA's strict code of practice. The question of how to police this is raised, considering that speakers are invited to lectures and conferences. The editorial board must decide whether to be selective about speakers and how to ensure a wide choice of ideas for debate. It questions whether speakers from both sides of controversial issues should be invited simultaneously to allow members to form their own opinions. The responsibility of BUFORA in informing or entertaining the public is also discussed, emphasizing the need for integrity in the subject matter promoted on BUFORA platforms, even if the organization does not endorse the speakers' views.

The Good, the Bad and the Downright Ugly: A Look at How the Media Portrays the Subjects of UFOs and the Paranormal

This article by Anthony Eccles is a response to a journalism student's inquiry about media portrayal of the paranormal. Eccles notes that his research and work in a national museum have highlighted similar perception issues in how the public views museum galleries or countries. He uses the example of Africa, where stereotypes often overshadow its rich culture and diversity. The article argues that stereotypes of the paranormal are influenced by media forms like newspapers, radio, and television. While the media has provided factual information, it has also been used for propaganda. The author posits that public attitudes towards strange phenomena are shaped by how they have been portrayed over fifty years. He questions the common associations of 'UFO', 'alien', and 'abduction' with negative labels like 'loonies' or 'geeks', and the stereotypical image of a UFO researcher. These stereotypes, he concludes, stem from media consumption, including newspapers, television, and the internet.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO phenomena, the challenges and responsibilities of UFO research organizations like BUFORA, and the impact of media and public perception. The editorial stance emphasizes a commitment to rigorous research, open debate, and the need to address controversial topics like hypnosis and censorship constructively. BUFORA aims to be a platform for diverse viewpoints while maintaining a standard of integrity and scientific inquiry. The organization is actively pursuing a wide range of research projects, seeking broader input and aiming to increase the visibility and credibility of ufology.

This issue of the BUFORA Bulletin focuses on the historical context and evolution of UFO reporting, examining witness accounts, journalistic coverage, and the characteristics of reported phenomena. It spans from early 20th-century aerial anomalies to contemporary sightings.

Origins of Stereotypes and Early Sightings

The article begins by exploring why the paranormal, particularly UFOs, is often perceived as 'paranormal' or 'weird' rather than normal. It suggests that the inherent strangeness and frightening aspect of the subject make it difficult for many to accept into their personal lives. The author then traces the origins of UFO stereotypes to the period after World War II, coinciding with the atomic age and advancements in scientific understanding that opened up possibilities like space travel.

Unusual aerial phenomena were reported as early as the late 19th century, with newspapers paying attention to mysterious 'airships.' While some of these could be explained as experimental airship flights, others were not easily dismissed. An example from Texas in 1878 describes a dark disc-like object. More notably, an April 15, 1897, report from Springfield, Illinois, detailed affidavits from farm workers Adolph Winkle and John Hulle, who claimed an airship landed to repair electrical apparatus. They spoke with two male occupants and a woman, who stated the craft had flown from Quincy in half an hour. The article highlights that this report was published without satirical commentary or scientific debunking, treating the testimony seriously.

Another significant journalistic report from April 19, 1897, in the Dallas Morning News, detailed an event in Aurora, Texas. An airship reportedly collided with a windmill, exploded, and scattered debris. The pilot, the sole occupant, was described as having disfigured remains, and was believed to be from Mars, according to T. J. Weems, a U.S. Signal Service officer. The article points out the striking similarity to H. G. Wells' 'War of the Worlds,' published that same year, and notes the press's serious treatment of the story without immediate skepticism.

The text then analyzes the witness testimony from Springfield, Illinois, highlighting points that challenge conventional explanations: the Wright brothers' first flight was in 1903, six years after the sighting, and Count Zeppelin's airship could only travel at about 25 mph, making the reported speed of 200 mph impossible. The presence of a woman on the craft also raises questions about experimental airship capabilities at the time.

'Foo Fighters' and World War II

The journalistic attitude towards anomalous phenomena shifted over time, particularly during the World Wars. The Second World War saw numerous reports of unidentified craft, including 'foo fighters'—balls of fire seen flying alongside or buzzing Allied aircraft with spectacular maneuvers. These were often described as being radio-controlled and capable of speeds up to 300 mph. Intriguingly, German military documents revealed that German aircraft had also been harassed by these 'Feuerball' objects, leading them to believe they were an allied secret weapon. The article suggests that if these phenomena had been considered paranormal, they would likely not have received corroboration from official sources.

The Dawn of the Flying Saucer Era

By the end of World War II and the advent of the atomic era, public interest in new sciences, space exploration, and science fiction novels surged. While 'Ghost Rockets' were investigated in Sweden in 1946, the following year, 1947, marked the beginning of the 'Flying Saucer' era. Two key events captured public attention: In June 1947, pilot Kenneth Arnold, while searching for a crashed military transport aircraft, observed a formation of crescent-shaped aircraft flying in a V-shape. He described their movement as 'like a saucer would if you skipped it across the water,' a description that the media adopted to coin the term 'flying saucer.'

In July 1947, an incident in New Mexico, later known as the Roswell incident, became a heavily debated case and an example of media coverage attempting to downplay public interest in UFO phenomena. The article promises to discuss the media manipulation surrounding Roswell in a future issue.

Recent Cases and Investigations

The bulletin then shifts to recent UFO reports and investigations, featuring 'APRA Recent Cases' compiled by Brian James. Several incidents from June 1999 in Reading, Berks, are listed, including high-flying 'aircraft' with odd vapour trails, an 'aircraft' being fired at by a 'missile,' giant cylinders emerging from clouds, and bright blue or white lights. One witness also reported strange phone calls.

On July 25, 1999, in Oxford, Oxon, a family witnessed a star-like object moving slowly and recorded it on video. The case gained media attention, with local reporters and another UFO group reportedly 'stumped' by the footage. The article analyzes the video footage, suggesting the 'pulsing' effect seen was likely due to the camcorder's autofocus attempting to lock onto a small object.

A team of skywatchers in Avebury, Wilts, on August 1, 1999, reported very bright pulses/flashes emanating from behind a hill. These were described as lower to the horizon than typical 'skyflashes' and distinct from artillery muzzle flashes. In Crawley, Sussex, on the same date, three witnesses observed a small, bright satellite-like object moving erratically at high speed in a zig-zag motion. The witness, a former member of the armed services, recognized it as not being a conventional aircraft.

Historic Viewpoint: Ball-Of-Light Cases

Steve Gamble contributes a 'Historic Viewpoint' section, examining 'Ball-Of-Light' cases from the 17th century. Information is drawn from secondary sources quoting John Morton's 'History of Northamptonshire' (1712) and Peter Burton's article in the BUFORA Journal, referencing Dr. Plot's 'A Natural History of Staffordshire' (1680).

An event on September 20, 1676, in Northamptonshire, described by Morton as an 'unusual meteor,' is detailed. Witness Mr. Gibbon from Peterborough described the object as a 'fiery meteor' in the figure of a dart, with a stem and a narrow stream of light, exhibiting a 'wav'd or vibrated motion' for about a minute.

Dr. Plot's work includes a case from September 1676, where John Nash, vicar of Broadheath, described an object appearing as a great fire that became globular as it neared. It moved by jerks, making short rests, and dropped 'drops of fire' as it decreased in magnitude and disappeared. This incident is also recorded in the Philosophical Transactions by Professor John Wallis.

The Wallis account suggests the object was seen in multiple locations across England, including Kent, Essex, Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire, Devon, and Somerset. The article notes apparent differences in reported shapes (globular, dart-like) and motion (rapid and smooth versus jerky) between the Oxford and Staffordshire sightings, speculating if they might be different objects. However, Gibbon's report is presented as potentially linking these events due to its description of similar shape and erratic motion.

The author wonders if these historical meteors are as unusual as originally thought, noting that sporadic meteors can be seen even without a meteor shower. The 'drops of fire' described by Nash are compared to fragments seen in large meteoric fireballs.

Other historical events mentioned include an object seen at Bowden Parva in September 1693, described as having two parts (a W-shaped top and a string of light), and a 'globe of fiery matter' witnessed by Sir William Craven and his servant in Winwick in August 1698 or 1699. This latter object left a smokey trail that dispersed only after two hours, which the author finds particularly strange.

The Halls of Residence Incident

Malcolm Robinson recounts a bizarre experience reported by David, a 24-year-old law student, which occurred in the early hours of June 18/19, 1996, in the halls of residence at a London University. David reported his room appearing to change dimensions and 'waver.' He then experienced a bright white flash, a rush of wind, and found himself paralyzed, unable to move except for his eyes. He perceived three to four 'beings,' about one meter tall, wearing brown monk-like habits with dark oval eyes. He described them as 'evil looking' and 'scrunched up.'

During this experience, David felt his life flash before him, culminating in a vision of his half-sister Claire. One of the beings then pointed a large silver metallic object at him and slowly inserted it into his body below his right rib cage, causing indescribable, intense pain. The device was retracted, and the pain subsided. The beings then appeared to melt through the bedroom wall.

Upon checking his body, David found a small red spot where the device had been, which later faded. He encountered a fellow student who had seen nothing unusual. David also recalled a previous account from a female student named Alex, who had claimed to be abducted by 'aliens,' but David had dismissed her claims as those of a 'nutcase.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of the BUFORA Bulletin demonstrates a consistent interest in documenting and analyzing UFO and anomalous phenomena reports, both historical and contemporary. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation, presenting witness testimony and historical accounts with a degree of open-mindedness, while also employing critical analysis, particularly in cases like the Oxford video footage. The publication aims to explore the historical context of UFO beliefs, the role of media in shaping public perception, and the detailed characteristics of reported sightings. There is a clear effort to connect current events with historical precedents and to provide a platform for researchers and witnesses within the UFO community.

This issue of the BUFORA Bulletin, dated 1999, focuses on the phenomena of UFO abductions and crop circles. It includes a personal account of an abduction experience, a lecture summary on crop circles, and listings of forthcoming events and publications.

Personal Abduction Account

The issue begins with a detailed account from an individual named Colin, who describes a disturbing experience from his childhood and a more recent abduction event. Colin, a healthy man who does not smoke or take drugs, reports experiencing health deterioration, including a bad neck, following an incident when he was eleven years old. During this incident, he felt as though a man dressed in black was coming to 'get him' and was later found sleepwalking half a mile from his home in his pyjamas. The author, Jenny Randles, expresses horror at such tales if true and states she has no reason to doubt Colin's testimony, finding him to be a very honest individual. She compares this account to the famous Scottish A70 Abduction case, finding it equally spellbinding. Randles questions the purpose and meaning behind such experiences, wondering what can be learned from them and how they fit into the UFOlogical jigsaw. She notes that 'they' were in Colin's bedroom and inserted a needle-like device into his body, concluding that it must 'mean something'. Randles mentions planning further visits with Colin and will share any new evidence. She also reflects on her changing views regarding hypnosis for extracting subconscious recall from abductees, emphasizing the need for caution.

Lecture Summary: Crop Circles

Brian P James delivered a lecture titled "Still Going Round in Circles," which explored the origins and evolution of the crop circle phenomenon. He began by light-heartedly referencing a BBC 'Supernature' program that attempted to debunk crop circles as mere whirlwinds or hoaxes. Brian then delved into the history, drawing an analogy to Ufology, which began earlier than the commonly cited 1947. He referenced research by Terry Wilson, finding descriptions of circles dating back to 815 AD, including those described by Bishop Agobard of Lyon. He also mentioned cases like the 'Mowing Devil' from the 'modern era' in the 1970s and an early 'theory' by Erasmus Darwin in 1789 explaining 'Faery Rings,' which Jaques Vallee discussed in his book 'Dimensions.' Brian noted that Darwin's work predated Terence Meaden's 'Plasma Vortex Theory.'

Brian emphasized that the crop circle phenomenon has been evolving. In the early 20th century, circles were found in cereal fields. By the 1950s and 1960s, they appeared globally in grass and reeds, such as the 'Tully saucer nests,' often associated with structured metallic 'craft.' In the 1970s, the phenomenon returned to cereal fields and increased in complexity, with associations to animal mutilations. Public prominence grew in the 1980s with books and research, raising questions about when human awareness shifted to perceiving them as a mystery. The evolution continued through the 1980s and 1990s with intelligent pictograms and 'Fractal' formations.

Brian also discussed connections to other anomalous phenomena, including 'trilling noises' and unusual 'invisible lights,' which he has experienced firsthand. He also touched upon 'psychic compulsion.' The interest and involvement of the military, particularly the army, and the often-misinterpreted 'black helicopters' were also covered.

Brian highlighted the 'Cosmic Joker' or 'Q' intelligence, which seems to deliberately confuse and baffle people, having fun at humanity's expense. He noted that the Q Continuum, a highly developed species, wishes to oversee species evolution but must do so indirectly through puzzles and riddles.

Regarding the term 'crop circle,' Brian suggested it is misleading for the whole phenomenon, as circles have appeared in various crops like reeds, grass, spinach, potatoes, and brussels sprouts, as well as maize, canola, and wheat. Tree circles have also been reported, though photos are scarce. Circles have been observed in ice and snow.

Globally, crop circles have been reported since the 1950s in Central and South America, North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Australasia. Brian questioned whether humans are being conceited to assume any message in crop glyphs is meant for them, suggesting it might be 'graffiti' between higher beings or intended for other inhabitants. The complexity of formations suggests an intelligence aware of human science, evidenced by DNA-type formations and fractals. He posed the question of whether a higher intelligence is attempting to communicate with humans as humans try to condition animals to understand them.

Brian concluded that crop circles represent a phenomenon worthy of research, given their associations with other paranormal events. He stated that if natural or unexplained phenomena can produce complex formations and light phenomena, they might also cause UFO sightings or abduction experiences. Crop circles are presented as an unexplained mystery that challenges collective intelligence and is part of a larger puzzle to be solved.

BUFORA Information and Forthcoming Events

The bulletin includes information on the BUFORA Postal Training Course (PTC), which is compulsory for those wishing to become investigators. Enquiries should be directed to David Pointon.

A list of "Forthcoming Events" is provided, detailing lectures and meetings organized by BUFORA and affiliated groups, primarily in September, October, and November 1999, with some dates extending into 2000. These include lectures on topics such as "The Stargate Conspiracy," "The Rising of the Moon" (Devonshire UFO Triangle), and "The Pleiades Legacy."

BUFORA Bookshop and Submissions

The "BUFORA BOOKSHOP" section lists various research reports, conference proceedings, and back issues of BUFORA publications available for purchase, with prices indicated. All prices include post and packing.

The "SUBMISSIONS TO THE BULLETIN" section outlines guidelines for submitting material for publication. Articles can be sent electronically via email to [email protected] or by post. Submissions should be typewritten copy, preferably in a bold, non-draft OCR-compatible font, or on a 3.5-inch IBM format computer disc.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of BUFORA Bulletin strongly emphasizes the investigative and research-oriented nature of the organization. The recurring themes include the detailed examination of personal UFO abduction experiences, the historical and scientific analysis of crop circles, and the exploration of associated paranormal phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging the collection and dissemination of evidence while maintaining a critical perspective, as seen in Jenny Randles' cautious approach to hypnosis and Brian P James' systematic analysis of crop circles. The bulletin also serves as a platform for promoting BUFORA's activities, educational resources, and membership, fostering a community of researchers and enthusiasts in the field of Ufology.