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New BUFORA Journal - No 04 - Oct 2002
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Title: New BUFORA Journal Issue: 4 Volume: NBJ4 Date: October 2002 ISSN: 1476-5314 Publisher: BUFORA Ltd. Country: United Kingdom Language: English
Magazine Overview
Title: New BUFORA Journal
Issue: 4
Volume: NBJ4
Date: October 2002
ISSN: 1476-5314
Publisher: BUFORA Ltd.
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English
This issue of the New BUFORA Journal, dated October 2002, presents a collection of articles and reports related to UFO sightings and investigations. The cover prominently features the headline "Machynlleth 'Jellentities'" and an illustration of a flying saucer. The issue includes a welcome to the October 2002 edition and lists several key articles: "A Classic from Cumbria," "The Lago De Cote Photograph," "Sri Lankan UFOs," "Circles of Light," and "A Welsh UFO Miscellany."
Editorial
The editorial section, titled "Strange, isn't it?" by Norman Oliver, reflects on the nature of belief in UFO phenomena. It questions the selective acceptance of certain cases, such as the Antonio Villas Boas case or the 'Mothman' reports, while dismissing others, like Joe Simonton's pancakes or the Tom Dawson case involving nude aliens. Oliver suggests that the acceptance or rejection of such claims might be influenced by the opinions of 'top' researchers, creating a lemming-like following.
Contents
- The journal's contents page lists the following articles:
- Editorial (1)
- A 'Classic' From Cumbria (1)
- Re-Examination Of The Lago De Cote 1971 Photograph (6)
- A Welsh Ufo Miscellany – Part Two (9)
- Sightings From Sri Lanka (17)
- What's Your Opinion? (19)
- Circles Of Light (21)
- From Here And There (23)
- ??? Question Time ??? (29)
- Book Reviews (29)
A 'CLASSIC' FROM CUMBRIA
Presented by Norman Oliver, this section details a significant UFO sighting that occurred in the Windermere area of Cumbria on the night of August 28th/29th, 1977. The report is based on an original account from the BUFORA JOURNAL Vol.7. No.3. Sept/Oct 1978. The sighting involved ten or more police officers and several civilians. The article presents the events chronologically, detailing the observations of multiple witnesses:
1. 11:47pm: Peter Simpson (aged 12) and his parents observed two yellow/white lights travelling eastwards from Oxenholme, Kendal. This report was noted as being twenty minutes earlier than others.
2. 12:10am: Constable Ian Mackenzie in Bowness observed two very bright lights approaching slowly to the right of the Langdale Pikes. The object, described as a noiseless 'shape', moved slowly to the south-east and disappeared behind trees.
3. 12:10am: Sergeant John McMullan in Keswick saw two 'car headlights' in the sky. He and three other policemen observed the object travelling south slowly and silently. It was described as having the shape of a hang-glider or diamond, with large white lights on the 'wings' and a faint red/amber light in the centre.
4. 12:20am: Sergeant James Trohear and Officer John Fishwick at Fallbarrow Park Caravan Site observed two horizontal lights approaching. Sergeant Trohear noted a lesser light forward of the two, suggesting a triangular or diamond-shaped object. Another constable described the outline as 'being that of a sting-ray fish'.
5. 12:22am: Police Officer Alexander Inglis, driving home to Carlisle from Keswick, noticed two extremely bright white lights approaching from the north-west. The object was travelling slowly, and a faint 'purring' noise was heard. Two fainter lights were visible at the front and rear.
6. 12:25am: PC Joseph Maw at Miller Ground, Bowness, observed two bright lights moving slowly towards them. Two further lights became visible as the object passed overhead. A slight buzzing noise was heard.
7. 12:25am: Mrs Mary Mortlock of High Portinscale, near Keswick, saw the object pass over her house. She observed two side-by-side lights, then a third between the front two, which was amber in colour and appeared to be a small section lit up on the inside.
8. 12:27am: Constable David Wild on patrol in Bowness saw two lights hovering about 1500 feet up. A third light appeared in the rear as the object moved towards him. Constable Wild described the impression as kite-shaped or 'like a skate fish', noting it was 'very large indeed and solid in construction'. No sound was heard.
9. 12:30am: John Platt and his family in Grange-over-Sands saw the object stop and then travel towards their house. They observed two, then four lights, so bright that the shape was obscured. The object 'floated' noiselessly across the sky.
10. 12:30am: Constable Ronald Jones and Sergeant Geoffrey Merckel watched a 'diamond, kite-shaped object' with four lights move noiselessly towards Grange over the Morecambe Bay area.
11. 12:30am: A husband and wife at Silverdale provided a detailed description using binoculars. They saw what appeared to be a giant ocean-going catamaran with a twin hull, a large transom at the front supporting two giant lights, and large bulkhead areas intensely illuminated. Two small dull orange glows were on the underside.
The article concludes by noting that while the description from the Silverdale witnesses was somewhat at variance, it should be considered due to the use of binoculars. It compares the event to other 'classic' sightings and notes the high number of trained observers involved. The author, Norman Oliver, poses the question, "But WHAT WAS IT?"
Re-Examination Of The Lago De Cote 1971 Photograph
This article by John Watson analyzes an aerial photograph taken on September 4th, 1971, in Costa Rica, which appears to show a metallic, disc-shaped object emerging from an inland lake. The photograph was previously studied by Richard F. Haines and Jacques Vallee, who concluded it was genuine and of an unknown object. However, Watson's study, using computer modelling and analysis of maps, suggests the object's maximum dimension is around 40m, differing from Haines and Vallee's estimate of over 200m. Timothy Good independently estimated it at about 50m.
The article discusses the scale of the photograph, using grid squares of 1000m and known lake dimensions. It attempts to model the object, suggesting it was inclined at about 40 degrees and was a cone or bowl shape. The analysis then focuses on the lighting conditions, comparing the observed sun angle in the photograph with predicted angles for the date and location. Computer renderings were created to simulate the scene. The analysis of shadows from trees and a building, and the object's illumination, leads the authors to question the reality of the object, particularly the lighting on its west side, which is not explained by conventional models.
The article notes that the observed sun angle (azimuth 70 degrees, altitude 43 degrees) would be seen in mid-morning from early June to mid-July. Experiments with a real model suggest that a highly reflective water surface might reproduce the effect, but the conditions in the photograph do not strongly support this. The authors conclude that the complete lack of similarity between predicted and observed lighting on the object calls its reality into question.
A WELSH UFO MISCELLANY – Part Two
This section, also by Norman Oliver, continues a focus on Welsh UFO reports, following up on the October 1970 TV mast sightings. It presents several cases from 1971:
- 1971, 8 September. Llanfairfechan, Conwy, N. Wales: A family of four on holiday reported a bright yellow-orange cigar-shaped object with a spot at one end, visible through binoculars. The object moved slowly and disappeared after about forty seconds. A similar object appeared twenty seconds later, fading out half a minute after.
- 1971, 26 October. Twm Barlwm Mountains, S. Wales: Two witnesses saw a cone-shaped object moving slowly, blunt end first, towards the mountains. It was red in colour.
The section also includes a brief mention of a 'tongue-in-cheek' warning about fluoridated water from Dr. Jan Abas, who recounted an encounter with a 'peace-loving alien' on the Denbigh Moors in 1973. The alien allegedly produced a 'shiny pencil' that paralysed him and left him with 'transistorised honey' and 'digitised incense sticks'. Dr. Abas concluded his encounter might have been a hallucination.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation and analysis of UFO sightings, with a particular emphasis on photographic evidence and witness testimony. The journal appears to maintain a critical yet open stance, as evidenced by the detailed analysis of the Lago de Cote photograph which questions its authenticity, and the editorial's call for a balanced approach to accepting or rejecting UFO claims. The publication prioritizes detailed case studies, such as the Cumbria sighting, and historical reports, like the Welsh miscellany. The editorial stance seems to be one of rigorous examination, encouraging readers to think critically about the evidence presented.
Title: New BUFORA Journal
Issue: 4
Volume/Date: October 2002
Publisher: BUFORA
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English
This issue of the New BUFORA Journal focuses heavily on UFO sightings and encounters, particularly a series of events in Wales during the 1970s, often referred to as the 'Dyfed Flap'. It also includes a section on sightings from Sri Lanka.
The Dyfed Flap: A Comprehensive Account
The journal meticulously details numerous incidents from Wales, primarily from 1975 to 1977. These accounts are often presented with specific dates, locations, and witness testimonies, some investigated by BUFORA researchers.
Macynlleth, Powys (July 1975)
One of the most intriguing accounts comes from a schoolboy named Trevor near Macynlleth. He reported seeing a landed object, approximately forty feet in diameter with a transparent dome and a large circular base. The object had intensely bright, unrecognisable lights and deep grooves. Inside the dome was a large metal unit. Trevor described jelly-like entities within the dome, some with hundreds of white discs. He witnessed one entity emerge from the craft through a 'hatchway'. The object then displayed flashing lights that blended with the surroundings, rendering it invisible. Trevor's father, who investigated the site later, noted a strange noise as the wind passed through the grass. Trevor subsequently experienced significant psychosomatic after-effects, including speech impairment and temporary blindness.
Broad Haven and Surrounding Areas (1977)
Several reports stem from the Broad Haven area and nearby locations, which garnered significant media attention.
- February 3, 1977 (Rhos-y-Bol, Anglesey): Nine girls and a teacher saw a silvery cigar-shaped object with a dome on top.
- February 3, 1977 (Herbrandston): Children at Herbrandston School witnessed a cigar-shaped object flying over the buildings.
- February 4, 1977 (Broad Haven): This event is highlighted as sparking media interest. Up to fourteen children at Broad Haven County Primary School reported seeing a silvery metallic object on the ground near the school, with some claiming a silver-suited figure was nearby. Jeremy Passmore provided a detailed description of the object and a figure in a silverish-green suit.
- February 17, 1977 (Broad Haven): A teacher saw a large, shiny, oval metallic object with a small dome and ridges.
- March 26, 1977 (Broad Haven): Mrs. Josephine Hewinson reported a silver object, 'like a jelly mould', parked in a field. It had three distinct layers and was estimated to be about 35 feet wide. The object disappeared without leaving a mark, and a pony that usually stood nearby was found huddling close to the hedge.
- April 14, 1977 (Broad Haven): Deborah Swan and friends reported seeing a brilliant, gleaming silver object, football-shaped, moving erratically.
Other Welsh Sightings
- October 1976 (Talgarreg): Two men hunting foxes saw a 'very slow moving star' that disappeared and reappeared.
- December 9, 1976 (Rosepool): Mrs. Dorothy Cale and her son saw a bright, flashing light above a hedge, described as vaguely dome-shaped with a zig-zag nucleus and yellowish light.
- February 3, 1977 (Rhos-y-Bol, Anglesey): Nine girls and a teacher saw a silvery cigar-shaped object with a dome on top.
- February 9, 1977 (Pembroke Dock): A young man saw a 'plate or saucer-shaped UFO' with yellow-green lights and a silver body.
- February 10, 1977 (Haverfordwest): Two boys saw a blue light that rose and appeared as an orange-coloured cigar shape.
- March 11, 1977 (Llansteffan): John Petts observed a luminous pale gold, sharp, evenly lit shape like a weaver's shuttle that suddenly switched off.
- March 13, 1977 (Solva): Stephen Taylor saw a well-defined pear-shaped object and later a black shape in a field, with a figure in a silverish-green suit.
- April 1977 (Milford Haven): A 64-year-old man saw an area of orange light enclosing two silvery objects, one described as a large Easter Egg.
- April 7, 1977 (Milford Haven): A 17-year-old witness saw a 'spaceship' hovering above the street, with a small humanoid figure in front of it.
- April 19, 1977 (Little Haven): Mrs. Rosa Grenville saw a pulsating bluish light and an oval object with two tall, human-like figures moving nearby.
- April 22, 1977 (Ripperston Farm): The Coombs family reported a '7-foot tall silver-suited figure' watching television through their farmhouse window.
- May 1977 (Ripperston Farm Area): Mrs. Coomb's twin daughters saw a 'funny man with a square face' in a silver suit, and an object shaped like a plate that ejected a dark red box before flying out to sea.
- October 30, 1977 (Stack Rocks): The Coombs family observed a round, flat disc that lowered itself and disappeared into the face of Stack Rocks. They then saw two figures, described as having elongated heads, moving on the rocks.
- July 1977 (Haverfordwest): Investigator Randall Jones Pugh reported seeing a crescent-shaped object with a pipe-like stem that took off vertically, flashing a bright red light.
Teleportation Claims
One report mentions claims of cattle teleportation, with a pen of 16 fully grown cattle and twenty calves disappearing and reappearing elsewhere.
Investigator's Experience and Withdrawal
Randall Jones Pugh, who investigated many of the Welsh reports, eventually withdrew from investigating after experiencing strange personal events, believing there was a malevolent aspect to the phenomena. He is said to have destroyed many of his records.
Sightings from Sri Lanka
The journal also presents reports from Sri Lanka, noting that reliable accounts from this region are rare.
Dimbulagala Area (June 1977)
Ananova News Service reported a 'mysterious blue ball' UFO hovering over a sacred cliff, witnessed by many people. Sanjaya Bandara suggested aliens might be studying ancient technology. The UFO was videoed, and astrophysicists from Colombo University are reportedly investigating.
Anuradhapura and Kandy (July 1977)
Astrophysicist Professor Chandana Jayaratne confirmed sightings of objects emitting a 'V'-shaped beam of light, capable of high-speed travel and rapid direction changes. The Sunday Times reported on sightings above Kotmale power station, including a pyramid-shaped object. 'Experts' from an organisation known as the UFO Research Association, working with NASA, were said to be investigating.
Sir Arthur Clarke's Perspective
Sir Arthur Clarke suggested that conventional explanations for UFOs exist and that any significant spacecraft would be detected. He also attributed some of the phenomena to 'Hollywood mass hysteria'.
Constable Owens' Report (October 1977)
Police Constable John Owen reported his wife seeing a long, thin, red-coloured flame that formed a circular, domed figure with visible portholes. He also observed the object, describing its colour as that of the setting sun and its size as double that of the sun.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are the prevalence and diversity of UFO sightings and encounters, particularly the concentrated 'flap' in Wales during the 1970s. The journal emphasizes detailed witness accounts, physical descriptions of objects and entities, and the psychological impact on those who experience these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and documentation of these events, acknowledging their unusual nature and the challenges in explaining them. The inclusion of reports from Sri Lanka broadens the scope, suggesting a global phenomenon. The journal concludes by posing the question of what the 'Flap' was all about, ultimately stating that 'it happened'.
This issue of the New BUFORA Journal, dated October 2002, focuses on a wide array of UFO sightings, unexplained phenomena, and related research from around the world. The publication aims to present diverse reports and encourage reader opinion.
Reader Opinion and Sri Lankan Sightings
The issue opens with a reader's query from Norman Oliver, questioning why the public should be privy to information about potential extraterrestrial presence. He humorously notes Sri Lanka's potential for 'Bollywood' watchers over Hollywood enthusiasts, suggesting a mystical side to local beliefs but doubting the production of concerning UFO films.
Oliver then relays a report from Dawn.com, Pakistan, about villagers in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka, claiming to have seen a beam from the sky and 'short men' near ancient temples. A local UFO expert, Sanjay Bandara, investigated, suggesting the beings were studying ancient ruins. Oliver comments on the lack of detail in the report and humorously suggests describing such entities as 'vertically challenged' to be politically correct.
The Millers Dale Incident
Another significant section details an experience from 1984, where a schoolteacher and her son, holidaying in Millers Dale, Derbyshire, UK, witnessed a strange event. The woman reported seeing an object lift off the ground, hover, and then move off at high speed. The object was described as oblong, silver or yellowish, with what looked like little legs, approximately five feet long and three feet wide, and possibly hollow. The previous evening, they had seen two flashing lights descend rapidly. The witness also felt a distinct rumbling along the riverbank, likened to a tube train.
The author, Norman Oliver, later interviewed the witnesses and visited Millers Dale, noting odd features like a disused railway station, a viaduct, and former railway lines converted for walkers. He also heard faint 'thuds' from above a tunnel. The witness's sketch of the object was reminiscent of the 'Flying Bedstead' VTOL aircraft prototype.
Oliver contacted the British Seismological Survey Office and the Meteorological Office regarding potential earthquake reports or 'earthquake lights'. The Seismological Survey confirmed no quakes were evident and stated that 'earthquake lights' are only associated with earthquakes of magnitude 5.5 or higher on the Richter Scale, which are rare in the UK.
Oliver concludes that the Millers Dale case was an intriguing and unique report, possibly a remotely controlled craft, but stretching the imagination to call it an alien spacecraft.
Circles of Light
The journal then explores the phenomenon of 'circles of light' observed in towns and cities across the Northeastern United States, citing a website (http://www.themiraclespage.org/circles.htm). These geometric light patterns are often formed from reflected sunlight from windows and can appear on buildings and the ground. They can be seen at different times of day and year, some appearing in the same place annually, while others vanish. Some have been observed to move, change angles, or appear on cars and clothing. The phenomenon has led to comparisons with crop circles, and some images appear to negate simple reflection explanations.
A second website (http://www.taracanada.com/CirclesofLight.html) is also recommended, presenting photos and raising questions about how such focused images are produced, why they appear on some windowpanes but not others, and the presence of a bright 'X' in the center of concave reflections. The author admits that initially dismissing these reports as ordinary sunlight reflections, he now finds them less easily explainable.
A specific case from the Brighton and Hove Evening Argus is detailed, featuring Lisa Stewart, who has seen these mysterious lights in her garden and around Hove for six years. She believes they are a strange phenomenon, comparable to crop circles, and that one must be receptive to see them.
International UFO Reports
The journal compiles various international UFO reports:
- Brazil: Three reports are mentioned, including an abduction case involving sexual relations, with accounts from Jose Inacio Alvaro and Juan Valario.
- Carteret Lights: On July 15th, 2001, over a hundred people observed 16 golden-orange lights in a V-formation, captured on camcorder, showing a haphazard arrangement of lights moving in unison. Radar detected objects without transponders.
- Australia: The AUSTRALIAN UFO BULLETIN reports a sighting in Richlands, Queensland, where a woman saw a giant dome-shaped vehicle with four pods scraping the ground.
- Springfield, UK: Bruce Fenton reported seeing eight glowing orange lights moving rapidly across the night sky.
- Baku, Azerbaijan: A report from June 17th, 2002, describes UFOs hovering in the sky above the metro station for several hours.
- Villarica, Chile: On July 12th, 2002, hundreds of people witnessed a luminous object with three red lights, seen from various points around the lake region.
Anti-Gravity Propulsion and Ancient Artifacts
An item examines 'Anti-Gravity Propulsion,' citing Nick Cook of JDW Aerospace Consultant, who reports that Boeing is working on experimental anti-gravity projects. The purpose is to explore propellantless propulsion and the work of Russian scientist Dr. Evgeny Podkletnov. Potential uses include aircraft propulsion, electricity generation, space launches, and weaponry. Podkletnov claims a beam of gravity-like energy can repel objects a kilometer away and exert an 'instantaneous force of 1000g'. The author speculates that 'anti-gravity' and 'warp' drive methods will become prevalent within years.
Chinese ET Relics
A report forwarded from MUFON describes a planned expedition by nine Chinese scientists to examine possible extraterrestrial relics near Delingha City in Qinghai Province. The site, known as 'the ET relics,' features a pyramid-like structure with caves and numerous rusty scraps and pipes. Analysis of the scraps revealed a high content of ferric oxide, silicon dioxide, and calcium oxide, suggesting great age. The site's mysterious nature has led to speculation it might have been a launch tower left by ETs.
Abduction Cases and Ancient Skulls
An article from Fate magazine, 'An Alien Heat,' by Scott Corrales, examines abduction cases for sexual purposes, referencing the well-known case of Antonio Villas Boas. The journal also reviews the 'Warminster Flap' and similar cases.
The death of Bill Mallow, a scientist who investigated alien artifacts and implants, is noted as a significant loss to UFO research. Mallow reportedly found objects made of unusual glass and one that was invisible to X-rays.
Bonnybridge Sightings
Several news items from the UK and Australia highlight the significant number of UFO sightings in Bonnybridge, Scotland, which has become known as 'The Falkirk Triangle.' A survey commissioned by Visit Scotland indicated Scotland has the highest concentration of UFO sightings globally, with an estimated 3000 reported annually. One theory suggests the area might be a 'window into another dimension.'
Ancient Skulls
Lucius Farish provides details of a website concerning ancient skulls from Ica, Peru, and Merida, Mexico. Robert Connolly photographed these skulls, which fall into categories like 'Conehead,' 'Jack O' Lantern,' 'J,' and 'M,' with a 'Pre-Modern' skull found in Peru. The 'Conehead' and 'J' type skulls exhibit unusual cranial vault shapes and capacities, leading to speculation about alien origins, though Connolly does not make this claim. The article dismisses 'binding' as the sole explanation for the elongated appearance.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The journal consistently presents a wide range of UFO and unexplained phenomena reports, encouraging reader engagement and scientific investigation. There is a clear interest in international cases, technological advancements related to propulsion, and the potential for extraterrestrial influence, both ancient and modern. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting evidence and theories without necessarily endorsing definitive conclusions, while also acknowledging the need for critical analysis and source verification. The recurring theme is the persistent nature of unexplained aerial phenomena and related events across the globe, suggesting a complex and ongoing mystery.
This issue of the New BUFORA Journal, dated October 2002, introduces a new feature called '??? QUESTION TIME ???' which invites readers to submit their UFO and UFO-related questions and problems. The journal aims to find answers for these queries, with anonymity respected. The issue is dedicated to answering one question, posed by S.R. and answered by Judith Jaafar.
Question Time: Ammonia Smell After Abduction
S.R. asks about a friend who reported a strong smell of ammonia upon returning from an alleged abduction experience, stating they had never encountered anything similar. Judith Jaafar replies that strange smells are common in paranormal reports, particularly when altered states of consciousness are involved. She explains that this suggests an altered brain state connected with stimulation of the olfactory centre. Jaafar notes that persons with epilepsy often experience strong smells like ammonia as an indicator of changing electrical activity in the brain, potentially preceding an attack. She further references recent studies suggesting a link between temporal lobe epilepsy and paranormal experience and perception, though the complexities of this link are still under investigation, with ongoing research in the UK and Canada.
Jaafar suggests that the friend write to BUFORA in more depth about her experiences, as a proper evaluation requires more information. She provides her email address ([email protected]) and the editorial address for those wishing to respond. All questions submitted via letter or email will be passed on to the most qualified person to answer, with anonymity guaranteed if requested.
Book Reviews
Talking To Extraterrestrials by Lisette Larkins
This review, by T. Huntington, discusses Lisette Larkins' book, 'Talking to Extraterrestrials'. The book is described as a record of question-and-answer sessions between the author and extraterrestrials (ETs) she claims to have contacted. Unlike the typical 'abduction model', Larkins' work presents a new paradigm where the encounter is a profound spiritual journey. The reviewer notes that the answers provided by the ETs are often straightforward, covering topics such as Einstein, Edison, 'Encounter Phenomena', Atlantis, electro-magnetic frequencies, longevity, materialisations, near-death experiences, spiritual associations, and inter/multidimensional travel. The reviewer finds the ETs' communication style to be more understandable than is typical in claimed alien encounter experiences.
The book includes two appendices. The first is by UFO investigator Joe Nyman, who concluded that it is 'one woman's story' but that readers might relate to her experiences. The second appendix is by Alan Ludingto, a licensed family and marriage therapist, who assessed Larkins over six years. Ludingto encourages readers to explore the book for new thoughts and feelings, seeing it as a reminder of human potential and the possibility of extraordinary experiences.
Lisette Larkins' book is published by Hampton Roads Publishing Company Inc. and was released in 2002. It can be ordered directly from the publisher or via their website.
Introducing Chaos by Ziauddin Sardar and Iwona Abrams
This review, also by T. Huntington, discusses 'Introducing Chaos' by Ziauddin Sardar and Iwona Abrams. The reviewer admits to finding the book profoundly difficult to understand, describing its comparisons and conclusions as 'almost bizarre' and the entire presentation as 'completely chaotic'. However, he also finds it entertaining, noting that illustrations are present on every page, which sometimes aids understanding and sometimes baffles the reader. The book is described as an accessible introduction to a controversial theory that could change our view of the natural world and humanity's place within it.
The review quotes from the book's blurb, including the question, 'If a butterfly flaps its wings in Brazil, does it cause a tornado in Texas?' and a definition of chaos as 'the qualitative study of unstable aperiodic behaviour in deterministic nonlinear dynamical systems.' The book discusses chaos not only on a scientific level but also in everyday terms, suggesting it affects everyone and everything. The reviewer highlights that the book explores how decisions and actions can lead to vastly different life outcomes, questioning whether this is determinism or chaos. The illustrations are praised for their ability to either bring order or complete disorder to the reader's mind. The reviewer concludes that the book is absorbing and will transfix the reader, prompting them to understand the anarchic principles that dispute universal order.
'Introducing Chaos' was originally published in 1998 under the title 'Chaos for Beginners' and is available from Icon Books UK for £9.99.
About BUFORA
The journal provides information about BUFORA (British UFO Research Association), founded in 1962 as a federation of regional UFO groups. It was originally known as the British UFO Association and became a company limited by guarantee in 1975. BUFORA is registered under the UK Data Protection Act and does not release membership records. The organization is run by volunteers and funded by members. Membership is open to those who support BUFORA's aims.
AIMS OF BUFORA
BUFORA's three aims 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.
3. To co-ordinate UFO research throughout the United Kingdom and co-operate with others engaged in such research worldwide.
ACTIVITIES OF BUFORA
BUFORA organizes regular lectures on UFO-related topics and provides members with six issues per year of the 'New BUFORA Journal'. The 'UFOCALL' information service (phone: 09068 121 886) offers pre-recorded messages about reports and events, updated regularly.
PUBLICATIONS OF BUFORA
Details of available publications, including back issues of journals, can be obtained from the registered office. Some publications are also available through Spacelink Books.
New Stock List (September 2002)
The journal includes a 'New Stock' list from Lionel Beer of Spacelink Books, featuring a wide range of UFO and paranormal-related books. Popular paperbacks, large paperbacks, substantial softcovers, and hardbacks are listed with titles, authors, publication details, and prices. Notable titles include 'The Mammoth Encyclopedia of Extraterrestrial Encounters', 'Talking to Extraterrestrials' by Lisette Larkins, and 'UFOS and the National Security State' by Richard Dolan. The list also includes recent additions of magazines like Nexus and Strange Times, and a video titled 'Face on Mars: The Avebury Connection (UPDATE)'. All prices include postage and packing within the UK.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO research, extraterrestrial contact, and the paranormal. BUFORA's stance is clearly one of promoting scientific research and data collection related to UFO phenomena. The 'Question Time' feature indicates an openness to reader engagement and a commitment to providing information and answers. The book reviews, particularly of 'Talking to Extraterrestrials', suggest an interest in exploring alternative interpretations of abduction experiences beyond the standard models, including spiritual and psychological dimensions. The inclusion of 'Introducing Chaos' also points to an interest in broader scientific and philosophical concepts that may intersect with UFO research. The overall tone is informative and investigative, aiming to educate and engage its readership in the ongoing study of UFOs and related phenomena.