BUFORA Bulletin2 - No.21 - Oct 2000

Magazine Overview

Title: BUFORA BULLETIN
Issue: No. 21
Date: October 2000
Publisher: BUFORA (British UFO Research Association)
ISSN: 1466-8017

This issue of the BUFORA Bulletin is dedicated to remembering prominent figures in the UFO research community and exploring current topics within ufology. The cover prominently features tributes to Cynthia Hind, Arthur Ellison, and Arthur Tomlinson, alongside articles on the controversial Ray Santilli film and UFOs caught on camera.

Editorial

The editorial section, likely written by the editor or a council member, begins by expressing sadness over the recent deaths of several colleagues within the UFO community, including Cynthia Hind, Arthur Ellison, and Arthur Tomlinson. It also mentions the passing of Jeanne Andrus, wife of Walt Andrus, and George Spurgeon. The editorial notes recent changes within the BUFORA Council, with Norman Oliver elected as Vice-President and Judith Jaafar as Vice-Chairman, emphasizing continuity in leadership. A significant portion of the editorial discusses the evolving nature of reports BUFORA receives and how the association deals with them, suggesting that BUFORA has already broadened its scope to include various anomalies beyond traditional UFO sightings. The editorial also touches upon the potential influence of media, such as 'The X Files,' on witness perceptions and suggests that understanding the human brain and mind is key to unraveling many enigmas. Finally, it acknowledges the shift to an 8-weekly publication schedule for the Bulletin due to resource limitations and mentions plans for bonus offers for members.

Contents and Articles

Mind Machines? (Page 4)
By Malcolm Robinson
This article introduces Tony Basset, who claims to have developed devices called 'Bio-Energisers' that can induce Out of Body Experiences (OOBES) and astral travel. Robinson recounts his meeting with Basset and his partner Judith Jaafar, detailing Basset's claims of students visiting the spirit world, travelling back in time, and witnessing UFO encounters. Robinson expresses a desire to personally test Basset's device and plans to transcribe his interview for future publication.

Tributes... (Page 6-9)

• Cynthia Hind (Page 6-7) Written by John Spencer, Philip Mantle, and Roy Rowlands. These tributes honor Cynthia Hind, describing her as an active and enthusiastic researcher of UFOs and the paranormal, with extensive work across the African continent. She is remembered for her contributions to BUFORA, her role as editor of 'UFO Afrinews,' and her book 'UFOs African Encounters.' Her open-minded yet 'nuts-and-bolts' approach to research is highlighted. John Spencer recalls her humor and her concern for her farm in Zimbabwe. Philip Mantle emphasizes her determination and warm-hearted nature. Roy Rowlands shares personal anecdotes, including filming her for a BUFORA video and a memorable visit to her home, also noting her personal tragedy of losing her daughter.

• Arthur Ellison (Page 8-9) Written by Richard Conway and Malcolm Robinson. Arthur Ellison is remembered as a long-term member of SPR and a Professor Emeritus of electrical engineering. His research included the controversial Scole case. He is described as a distinguished scientist with personal paranormal experiences, including OOBES. Richard Conway notes Ellison's disappointment at being unable to lecture due to ill health and his belief in the holographic universe model. Malcolm Robinson expresses admiration for Ellison's knowledge of UFOs and associated subjects, his ability to relate facts to the audience, and his dedication to exploring alternative explanations for mysteries, rather than just debunking.

• Arthur Tomlinson (Page 9) Written by Steven Mera and Norman Oliver. Arthur Tomlinson is remembered for his dedication to UFO investigation, having been the Chairman of DIGAP (Direct Investigation Group of Aerial Phenomena) since its formation in 1965. He is described as an ambitious individual who traveled extensively to educate the public about the UFO phenomenon and was a firm believer in extraterrestrial intelligence. Steven Mera expresses sympathy to his family, and Norman Oliver notes that Tomlinson gave the last lecture of the old Millennium at the University of Westminster.

If the Alien Body is Real - What Then? (Page 10-11)
By Cynthia Hind
This article critically examines the Ray Santilli film, which purports to show the autopsy of an alien body. Hind expresses skepticism towards investigators who quickly condemned the film, suggesting fear of ridicule. She questions the film's poor quality, the surgeons' actions, and the financial aspects surrounding the film's acquisition. Hind notes that a surgeon brother-in-law, a skeptic, found the surgeons' actions consistent with a real procedure, and other surgeons corroborated this, suggesting uncertainty about the body not being human.

Caught in the 'Net 1 & 2 (Page 13 & 29)
These are brief mentions of content related to online investigations or findings, with details not fully elaborated in the provided pages.

Book Reviews (Page 14)
This section indicates that book reviews are included in the issue, but the specific titles and content are not detailed in the provided pages.

UFOs Caught on Camera? (Page 16)
By Brian James
This article likely discusses photographic evidence of UFOs, examining cases where sightings have been captured on camera.

Investigations Diary (Page 20)
By Gloria Heather Dixon
This section probably details recent UFO investigations undertaken by BUFORA, providing updates on ongoing cases and findings.

Astronomy & Space Notes (Page 26)
By Brian James
This section likely covers astronomical observations or space-related news that may have connections or implications for UFO research.

An FT Crash Explained? (Page 28)
This title suggests an article that attempts to explain a specific UFO crash incident, possibly referring to the 'Fallen Technology' or a similar acronym.

Other Sections and Advertisements

Future Issues (Page 4)
Announcements for future articles include 'The Bible Code' by Richard Conway, 'Mind Machines' interview with Tony Basset by Malcolm Robinson, and 'Exotic Propulsion - The Casimir Engine' by Jazz Rasool.

Travel & Earth Mysteries Society (TEMS) (Page 4)
An advertisement for TEMS, a society interested in ancient mysteries, anomalous animals, dowsing, ghosts, healing, ley lines, sacred wells, strange phenomena, and UFOs. It mentions monthly meetings and a yearly subscription that includes 'TEMS News.'

APRA (Anomalous Phenomena Research Agency) (Page 4)
An advertisement for APRA, based in Oxfordshire and the Thames Valley, founded in 1996. It offers a newsletter and monthly open meetings, welcoming members of BUFORA and ASSAP.

BUFORA Central Office and Contacts (Page 2)
Provides contact details for BUFORA's central office, including address, phone number, email, and website. It also lists key personnel such as the President, Vice Presidents, Council members, Membership Secretary, Webmasters, and Directors of Research and Investigation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the remembrance of deceased UFO researchers, the critical examination of UFO evidence (specifically the Santilli film), and the ongoing nature of UFO investigations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded yet rigorous research, acknowledging the complexities of the phenomenon and the importance of understanding both external evidence and the human element (mind and perception). BUFORA positions itself as an organization that receives and investigates a wide range of anomaly reports, indicating a willingness to explore beyond conventional UFO sightings. There is a clear emphasis on honoring the contributions of past researchers while continuing the work of the association.

Title: BUFORA Bulletin
Issue: 21
Date: October 2000 (implied by page dates and content)

This issue of the BUFORA Bulletin features a diverse range of articles focusing on UFO phenomena, evidence analysis, and investigative practices within the UFO community.

Autopsy Analysis: The Santilli Case and Turner's Syndrome

The lead article scrutinizes the controversial Santilli autopsy, questioning its connection to the Roswell Incident. The author notes discrepancies in the claimed date of the crash and the condition of the body, suggesting it might be the autopsy of a young female suffering from Turner's Syndrome (TS). TS is described as a genetic condition affecting approximately 1 in 2500 girls, characterized by short stature, underdeveloped ovaries, and often a distinctive neck appearance. The article highlights the surgeon's focus on the aorta's flexibility and the unusual protective clothing worn by the surgeons, questioning the necessity of filming the autopsy if it were a known medical case. The film's dating is discussed, with 1947 being the most probable year of production. The author also touches upon the possibility of a government 'advance' announcement or a spoof.

UFO Photography and 'Solar Obliteration'

Brian P. James contributes an article titled 'UFOs Caught On Camera?', examining the 'Solar Obliteration' technique used to capture footage of aerial objects. This method involves pointing a camcorder at the sun while using a solid object to block glare. James expresses skepticism, stating that his own experiments primarily revealed insects and windborne debris, which he believes are often mistaken for UFOs. He notes that these objects become more numerous as the air temperature rises. The article discusses how insects can appear as 'Straightmovers' or other anomalous shapes when viewed in slow motion or frozen frames, and that the 'night mode' on camcorders can enhance contrast in the sky. James concludes that while there are many anomalous objects to investigate, inventing new ones based on flimsy data is unnecessary.

Book Reviews

Two books are reviewed:

• 'Intruders In The Night' by Christopher Martin: This book details channelled messages from alleged 'aliens' received by a woman named Vicki. The messages suggest alien bases under the sea and their past appearances to humans. The book also claims Vicki's mental and logical understanding increased significantly. The review notes the book contains extraordinary stories, including aliens controlling children and appearing at lectures. The author, Chris Martin, has amassed extensive UFO video footage.
• 'Electric UFOs, (Fireballs, Electromagnetic and Abnormal States)' by Albert Budden: This book explores the theory that electromagnetic pollution is the underlying mechanism behind the UFO mystery. Budden posits that 'EM Hot Spots' can cause individuals to experience visual effects, paranormal phenomena, and even 'epileptiform states'. The review highlights that sources of EM pollution include radio transmitters, power lines, and radar. The book is recommended for both sceptics and believers, described as thought-provoking and potentially controversial.

'Caught in the 'Net...

This section provides brief updates:

• International UFO Center: Announces its presence on the world wide internet with the website www.ufoproducts.com, offering a large selection of UFO products.
• 'U.P.R. 2000: An Interview With Stanton T. Friedman': A new on-line production by Dream Masters Studios features an interview with nuclear physicist Stanton T. Friedman, discussing his interest in UFO research, Soviet Ufology, and the 'Starchild Project'.
• RAF Active Search: A link to a RAF website mentions an expedition that encountered UFOs during a micro-light flight from the Gulf of Mexico to the Arctic Ocean in 1999.

Investigations Diary

The BUFORA NIC (National Investigations Committee) held its second meeting in Doncaster on September 30, 2000. The meeting discussed an increase in 'exotic' reports, including alien encounters and abductions, and the need to potentially widen BUFORA's investigation parameters. Judy Jaafar presented on the interpretation of these reports, exploring how mythology, beliefs, and paranormal experiences have become intertwined with UFO culture. The discussion highlighted the potential links between UFOs and other paranormal phenomena. A future meeting and training day is planned for February 2001.

Sightings/Close Encounter Reports

As of October 24, 2000, BUFORA had received 125 reports, ranging from close encounters to sightings of lights in the sky. However, the bulletin notes an overall decrease in sighting reports.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the critical analysis of UFO evidence, particularly photographic and video material, and the exploration of potential explanations for anomalous phenomena, ranging from natural causes like insects and meteors to environmental factors like electromagnetic pollution. There is a clear emphasis on rigorous research and the need for strong evidence, as seen in the skepticism towards the Santilli autopsy and the 'Solar Obliteration' technique. BUFORA's editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, acknowledging the increase in reports of unusual phenomena while maintaining a critical approach to evaluating the evidence. The organization is actively seeking to broaden its scope to include a wider range of high strangeness reports.

BUFORA Bulletin, Issue 21, dated Autumn 2000, is a publication from BUFORA Ltd focusing on UFO sightings, investigations, and related phenomena. The issue features a mix of witness accounts, photographic and video analysis, astronomical observations, and discussions of specific cases.

Photographs and Video Footage

The issue begins with an assessment from Bill Rose regarding a JPEG image and video footage taken in Barmouth, Llanaber, overlooking Cardigan Bay. A witness, MS, reported seeing a bright light reflecting on the sea at approximately 4:00 am. While filming, MS estimated the light to be about 800 meters away. Upon reviewing the footage, MS noticed anomalies including a disc-shaped object, two flashing red lights, and a blue flash. Bill Rose provides comments on the Barmouth sighting, noting that the distance estimation might be difficult. He also discusses the possibility of military activity in the MoD restricted airspace and the potential confusion with the star Arcturus, which would have been in a similar sky position. Rose suggests that reflections from a window, where the video was likely filmed, could also be a factor. He also raises the question of whether the camcorder had an operational red LED. While unable to pinpoint the exact origin, Rose considers aircraft, boat lights, or Arcturus as possibilities. He notes that Sony Hi-8 camcorders are capable of recording dim stars and that the zoom lens' focal length could affect the field of view. Rose believes MS's assessment of the object's diameter as being similar to the Moon was made after viewing the tape, not with the naked eye. He explains that defocused images of bright lights can appear larger on playback, a common feature in UFO footage shot at night, and that the phase detection system in most camcorders can cause images to defocus in low light.

Bill Rose also shares his experience with similar images, including one from Glenn Webster near Norwich in 1995, which showed a circle with cut-outs, concluded to be likely caused by an aircraft light. He also mentions a photograph taken in Egypt of the Pyramids, which shows an anomaly on the negative, which he has agreed to examine for BUFORA. The bulletin expresses thanks to Bill Rose for his contributions.

Sightings

An unusual sighting from 1978 is reported by a lady (GB) who contacted BUFORA again in 1994. The incident occurred in Lee, London SE12. GB and her sister were awakened around 2-3 am by a pulsating light so bright it illuminated their bedroom. Looking out the window, they saw the light directly above the house and felt a vibration in their stomachs, though there was no accompanying noise. The light later moved to hover stationary above cloud levels behind the house, over a park. GB describes the light as a large ball of yellow light emitting strobe-like flashes on all sides, with no sound. The vibration ceased when the light moved over the park. The event lasted longer than ten minutes but less than half an hour. GB notes the proximity of a railway line but believes it was unrelated. She finds it strange that such an event occurred in a built-up area and wonders if others saw it. The experience had a profound effect on her, and she still seeks an explanation.

GB's questionnaire indicates clear, cold, and dry weather conditions with total cloud coverage. She is adamant it was not a laser light display. The report also mentions a history of strange occurrences at this particular home, including a loud bang that caused a clock to be thrown across a bedroom, and scattered paint tubes in the dining room. GB's sister also reported seeing a man standing at the bottom of her bed on several occasions, leading to the landing light being left on. GB's mother also reported seeing a man leaning over her bed.

Another incident is reported by LP, who visited a relative in Cromer on October 4th, 1999. After midnight, while walking home, LP observed a 'ball of fire' with flames coming down through the clouds near East Runton. The object lit up the sky and passed by at a distance of a 'couple of fields', hitting the ground with a force that caused vibration. LP believes this is indicative of a meteorite, but regrets reporting it so long after the event.

DD and his girlfriend reported an incident on August 20th, 2000, near West Wickham, Cambridgeshire. At about 02:15, they observed two very bright red lights to the right and in the West, estimated at 400-500 feet high. After the lights disappeared, DD noticed a very large object in the sky. The weather was mild, dry, and clear. They described the lights as larger than a full moon. There was a discrepancy in the reported observation time between DD and JR. A friend also reported a similar sighting in Suffolk that night.

Malcolm Robinson is investigating a report from 1989 in Hampshire, where BS, then fifteen years old, saw a silver metallic disc-shaped object hovering quietly, emitting a humming noise and a smell of sulphur.

Further thoughts on the West Wickham case

This section discusses the West Wickham sighting, considering the geographical context. London's 3rd airport, Stansted, is 17 miles away. Depending on the wind direction, aircraft taking off from runway 23 would bank north and head eastwards, potentially appearing large at 3500 ft southeast of Cambridge, near the sighting area. The author notes that commercial airliners can look quite large at this height. The author also mentions that driving down the M11 at night, with damp air, mist, and low cloud, can create peculiar lighting effects from aircraft, such as high-intensity strobe lights reflecting off the mist, giving an aura-like glow. Landing lights can also create beams. A graphic illustrates how an aircraft might appear with a fleeting sideways glance from a car at motorway speeds, suggesting it could be misinterpreted as a UFO. However, the report of the West Wickham sighting stated the object was silent, whereas aircraft would exhibit engine noise.

Caught in the 'Net...2

This section discusses videotaping 'UFOs' and features contributions from Brenda Livingston of Living-Tracer Enterprises. Greg Avery, State Director of Louisiana MUFON, has made breakthroughs in video taping anomalous objects near persistent contrails. Avery has captured spherical objects on video and 35mm print film. His work was presented at the International MUFON Symposium in St. Louis. Avery's videotapes show dark and light spheroidal objects moving around persistent contrails. Light objects appear amorphous, while darker objects have a hazy or gaseous shell and appear to interact or 'swarm'. The author's own observations of Greg's video clips are also mentioned.

The section also references photographs by Rick Moors from Santa Monica, California. Moors' photos show spheroidal shaped objects or gaseous concentrations released from contrails, with some appearing to move away. Photographs of rectangular shaped objects are also mentioned, which appear to have areas occupied by spherical objects. It is suggested that these objects might be created or released by a craft flying overhead.

An FT Crash Explained?

This article revisits the alleged crash of a delta-shaped 'UFO craft' near Bicester, Oxfordshire, in 1967, which was publicized in 1997. The case has been investigated by UFO and aviation researchers. The article notes that the Bicester 'crash' was one of many incidents in the UK during the late 1960s and early 1970s. A witness, Chris Burleigh from California, suggested that the craft was a USAF D-21 supersonic reconnaissance drone. The article provides details about the D-21, stating that 31 were built between March 1966 and 1969. It was designed to replace the U-2 spy planes and was typically carried aloft by a B-52 bomber or YF-12A Oxcart aircraft. The D-21 was used for supersonic overflights of Soviet military establishments. The article questions why, if a D-21 crashed near Bicester, it was recovered to a bomb store at Bicester rather than the USAF base at Upper Heyford, which was closer.

Astronomy & Space Notes

This section, by Brian James, covers astronomical observations for Autumn 2000. Venus is becoming visible as an evening object, though its visibility is affected by pollution haze. It will climb into the western skyline in mid-November and reach its maximum elevation in February. Jupiter and Saturn are currently in Taurus. Jupiter is distinctive at magnitude -2.8, while Saturn is dimmer at -0.3 with a yellower appearance. The ring system of Saturn is open. The author notes that Venus is most likely to cause misidentifications of UFOs. Sirius may cause false reports as it rises, and Vega approaching the northwestern horizon can also cause confusion. Sirius will be prominent in the southern sky from November to year-end. The main meteor shower of the autumn is the Leonids, peaking on November 18th, though a major storm is unlikely. The article also mentions man-made objects, specifically satellites. The Russian space station Mir is noted as having its days numbered. The International Space Station (ISS) and the Space Shuttle are now being boosted into orbits that bring them over northern latitudes. The article provides a table of ISS and shuttle passes over southern Britain for the rest of the year, including date, magnitude, start time, highest elevation, and end time.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of BUFORA Bulletin include the analysis of photographic and video evidence of UFOs, witness testimony of sightings, and the investigation of specific cases, such as the Barmouth sighting and the Bicester 'crash'. There is also a focus on distinguishing potential UFOs from known phenomena like aircraft, stars, and atmospheric effects. The bulletin also includes a regular astronomy section, highlighting celestial objects that might be mistaken for UFOs. The editorial stance, as stated in the 'Submissions to the Bulletin' section, is that the views expressed in submitted contributions do not represent the policy or views of BUFORA Ltd, the editorial board, or council, except where specifically stated. The policy of BUFORA Ltd is not to publish the names of any witnesses.

This document, identified as BUFORA Bulletin Issue 21, presents a combination of book sales and upcoming lecture announcements. The primary focus of the book sale is on UFO-related titles, offered at a 'Superdeal' price of £3.00 each, including UK postage and packing. The bulletin also details the new day and venue for BUFORA London Lectures, which will now take place on the first Monday of each month from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM at The Quaker International Center in London.

Book Sale

The 'Superdeal Softcover Books' section offers several titles at a significantly reduced price from their original cover prices. These include:

• THE ALIEN INTENT by Raymond Robinson (1998): This book suggests that up to nine alien races are visiting Earth, possibly working with government agencies and using their own technology. It touches on the experiences of abductees and bizarre medical procedures. It contains 8 plates, an index, and is 255 pages long.
• UFO: A DEADLY CONCEALMENT by Derek Sheffield (1996): An investigation into the Belgium Flying Triangle flaps of 1989 and 1990. The book claims to uncover a cover-up by the British Ministry of Defence (MoD), the UK press, and the UN in New York. It features 8 plates and an index, totaling 280 pages.
• UFO CRASH LANDING by Jenny Randles (1998): This book details the UFO crash at Rendlesham Forest and subsequent events at the Bentwaters and Woodbridge US airbases, which began after Christmas 1980. It includes new witness evidence, reconsidered theories, and highlights a "worrying level of disinformation" from both UK and US defence departments. It has 8 plates, an index, and 224 pages.
• UFO ENCYCLOPAEDIA by John Spencer (1993): Described as a useful source book, this encyclopaedia offers A-Z listings of people, places, organizations, and definitions related to UFOs. It includes 8 colour plates, 32 black and white plates, and is 350 pages long. Its original price was $15.00.
• WITNESSED by Budd Hopkins (1997): This book recounts the Linda Cortile abduction saga that occurred over the Brooklyn Bridge in November 1989, describing her being flown into a UFO in a blue beam of light. It contains 8 plates and is 408 pages long. Its original price was £4.99.

All listed prices are £3.00 each, including postage, packing, and prompt despatch within the UK. An additional 25% is charged for addresses outside the UK. The contact for enquiries and orders is Lionel Beer.

BUFORA Lectures

The BUFORA London Lectures have a new day and venue starting from September 2000. Meetings will be held on the first Monday of each month, from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM. The new venue is The Quaker International Center, William Penn House, Byng Place (off Gower Street), London. The nearest tube stations are Euston Sq, Russel Sq, and Goodge St.

Upcoming lectures include:

• Monday, December 2nd, 2000: THE BIBLE CODE by Richard Conway. This lecture will explore whether a mathematical model can prove the Bible was divinely given and if encoded information within the Hebrew text of the Torah contains knowledge of mankind's future. Conway, an expert in programming languages, will present arguments for and against the Bible Code hypothesis.
• Monday, January 4th, 2001: THE HUTCHINSON EFFECT: THE POLTERGEIST MACHINE by Albert Budden. Budden will present research suggesting that UFOs, aliens, ghosts, and poltergeists have natural explanations and are not paranormal phenomena. This lecture is expected to be controversial.
• Monday, February 5th, 2001: HAUNTING MEMORIES by Tom Perrot. Perrot, a life member of the Society of Psychical Research and Chairman of the Ghost Club, will lecture on photographs of hauntings and discuss numerous ghostly cases encountered during his years of study. He has appeared on UK and overseas TV shows.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The bulletin strongly promotes UFOs and related phenomena, offering a selection of books that investigate alleged alien visitations, government cover-ups, and abduction experiences. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, as evidenced by the selection of books and the lecture topics. However, the lecture by Albert Budden introduces a counterpoint, suggesting that phenomena often attributed to the paranormal may have natural explanations, indicating a willingness to explore different perspectives within the UFO and paranormal community. The emphasis on 'superdeals' and 'bargain lists' suggests a focus on accessibility for members and the public.