New BUFORA Journal - No 05 - Dec 2002

Magazine Overview

Title: New BUFORA Journal
Issue Date: December 2002
Issue Number: No.5
Publisher: BUFORA Ltd.
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
ISSN: 1476-5314
Price: Free to members

This issue of the New BUFORA Journal, dated December 2002, presents a diverse range of articles and reports related to UFO phenomena and the organization itself. The cover prominently features a classic flying saucer illustration and the headline "A 1955 Close Encounter," setting the tone for one of the lead articles.

Editorial

Norman Oliver, the Journal Editor, opens the editorial with Season's Greetings for 2003, expressing optimism despite predictions of 'doom and gloom.' He outlines his intention to continue presenting a variety of UFO events, both historical and modern, and welcomes contributions of all natures, including personal experiences and scientific papers. He thanks Bob Digby for his past assistance and welcomes Robert Bull as the new mainstay of the production team.

Contents

The issue includes the following articles:

• From The Chairman
• My 1955 Close Encounter
• Rustavi Light Phenomena
• Is BUFORA Alive and Well After 40 Years?
• From Here and There
• A Weekend at Hourne Farm
• UFO Interference Effects - Aircraft and Missile Cases
• 50th Anniversary of UFO Research in New Zealand
• A Welsh UFO Miscellany – Part Three
• Indian Intruders
• UFORUM
• Book Review

From The Chairman

Peter Doye, the Chairman, extends seasonal greetings and reflects on his lifelong interest in anomalous phenomena, including UFOs, dating back to his time in the RAF investigating radar sightings. He acknowledges that while explanations for UFOs are varied, the mystery persists. He counters the notion that 'Ufology is dead,' asserting that vital truths are contained within the phenomenon and that interest remains strong among 'die-hards.' Doye suggests that a broader approach, embracing psychic and parapsychological aspects, is necessary to understand the UFO phenomenon, a path BUFORA and SPI have pursued in joint lectures.

He also addresses the need for a new webmaster, as the previous one had to step down. Doye is undertaking HTML and Dreamweaver courses as a backup and appeals for members with webmaster skills to come forward. He also requests members with artistic abilities to provide 'Artist's Impressions' from case descriptions.

My 1955 Close Encounter

This article is an excerpt from a forthcoming book by Margaret Fry, detailing her personal UFO encounter on Sunday, July 17, 1955. During a heatwave, while taking her sick child to the doctor, her car experienced unusual sputtering and stopping. She and the doctor observed a dense, cloudy, oval-shaped object directly above their car. The object solidified, revealed three ball-bearing-like wheels, hummed, and spun before tilting and rapidly ascending. The object was described as bell-shaped, with a pewter-like surface, spanning the width of the crossroads. The doctor, initially skeptical, considered it a secret American prototype craft. Later, her father, a scientist, suggested she had mistaken the sun, but a newspaper report confirmed other witnesses in the area had also seen the craft. The encounter occurred in Bexleyheath, Kent.

Postscript to Margaret's Encounter

Norman Oliver adds a postscript noting that Margaret's account was copyrighted and that further information had appeared on the Bromley Newsshopper website regarding a similar sighting by Rodney and his brother in July 1955, also in the Bexley area. This incident involved a landed UFO with eight suckers and flashing white lights, described as black with a polished metal surface.

Rustavi Light Phenomena

This report, by Judith Jaafar, details a Russian video report from Rustavi, Georgia, contacted via BUFORA's website. The phenomenon was videotaped by Zurab Kodalashvili, who had previously found little interest from Russian UFO groups. The video, lasting about 10 minutes, shows five to seven brightly lit objects that appear to 'switch on' and 'switch off' in a random pattern. The objects were estimated to be about 1.5 kilometers away, low in the sky, and hovering over a nearby hill. When zoomed, the objects show concentric circular shapes and a pink hue. The report notes that the lights blinked out when a helicopter approached, suggesting they were not structured objects but possibly transparent light phenomena. The area is seismologically active, and the possibility of 'earthquake lights' is considered. The photographer, who is reportedly poor, wishes to sell the footage, raising questions about his possession of a digital camcorder. Matthew Williams commented that the footage showed 'classic out of focus camera' with reticulation interference patterns.

Is BUFORA Alive and Well After 40 Years?

This article addresses concerns about BUFORA's status, particularly after the postponement of the 2002 AGM. Bob Digby explained that publication delays were due to technical issues with the mailing list and his involvement in administrative work. With Peter Doye as the new chairman, problems are being resolved. The AGM, held on October 5th, was quorate, with about a dozen members present, including Geoffrey Falla. Rob Bull has volunteered to assist Norman Oliver with Journal Production.

Peter Doye's Chairman's Report is described as encouraging, noting that 'recent best advice' led the Council to favor retaining company status, a move originally intended to achieve scientific charity status in 1975 but rejected by the Charity Commission. The proposal to reduce the quorum for Council meetings from six to four was passed, aiming to streamline decision-making. Norman Oliver expresses concern that a smaller quorum might allow proposals to be pushed through without full member consensus. Plans are underway to simplify the constitution and modernize BUFORA, incorporating the use of e-mail.

From Here and There

40 Years: This section reflects on BUFORA's history, with Norman Oliver recalling Roger Stanway's mid-seventies effort to make ufology more scientific and the plan to make the Newchapel Observatory an official address. He also mentions Nigel Stephenson's 1962 initiative to form a federation of UFO societies. Oliver notes that while many original founders have passed on, he remains in touch with film director Lawrence Moore. He highlights the Sheffield Conference promoted by Philip Mantle as a high point, featuring the controversial alien autopsy film. Despite recent administrative problems, the new chairman and council confirm that BUFORA has turned the corner.

Thai 'Balls of Fire': Presented by the Editor, this piece discusses a phenomenon reported in The Bangkok Post on October 22, 2002. Thousands were witnessing the 'Bang Fai Phaya Nark' – the rising of the King of Naga in fireballs from the Mekong River. These fireballs, colored red, pink, and orange, occur annually around the Full Moon in October. Scientists speculate they may be caused by a specific atmospheric condition related to the river.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include detailed personal accounts of UFO sightings, scientific and investigative reports on anomalous phenomena, and organizational updates on BUFORA's activities and future direction. The editorial stance appears to be one of continued serious investigation into UFOs, embracing a broad approach that includes both empirical evidence and potentially psychic or parapsychological aspects. There is a clear emphasis on maintaining BUFORA's relevance and scientific credibility while acknowledging the enduring mystery of the UFO phenomenon.

The New BUFORA Journal, December 2002 Issue No. 5, ISSN: 1476-5314, presents a collection of articles and reports on UFO phenomena, scientific advancements, and historical accounts. The issue features a cover story titled 'Tonbridge Photo' and explores various UFO sightings, alleged crop damage by unidentified objects, and technological innovations.

Articles and Reports

The 'Tonbridge Photo'

The issue highlights a 'Tonbridge Photo' that bears resemblance to well-known UFO images from McMinnville (1950) and Rouen (1964). The disc-shaped object with a tower on top was submitted anonymously, and the reporter notes that if it were a hoax, it would be 'incredibly elaborate'. The witnesses have not been identified, and the reporter comments on the impact of 'hoax video' competitions on the credibility of future UFO evidence.

Close Encounters of the Crop-Eating Kind!

This section discusses a feature in The Guardian concerning a farmer in the Koziakas region of Greece who claimed a 'flying saucer' damaged his wheat crops, leaving holes in the soil. Another farmer witnessed a 'huge object' landing on the crops. The article notes that these markings differ from typical crop circles.

Iceland Invents Energy from Water Machine

Reporting on a BBC News World Edition story, this section details the invention of the 'Thermator' by an Icelandic team. This device, developed by Professor Thorstein Sigfusson at the University of Iceland, uses crystals made of semi-conductors to transfer the temperature difference between hot and cold water into electrical energy.

Crop Circles – Space-Weapon Development Involvement?

Jacques Vallee proposes a new approach to the crop circle mystery, suggesting that sophisticated electronic warfare experiments conducted by defense contractors, possibly involving space-based weapons, might be responsible for some formations. He posits that these patterns could be used to calibrate beams and that the energy required to vaporize water in a stalk node points to specific energy types.

Early Suffolk Sightings

This report, referencing Joseph Trainer's UFO ROUNDUP, details historical sightings from East Anglia in 1783, particularly from the Bury Post newspaper. These 'meteor' sightings were considered unusual and not typical of conventional meteors.

Lights over Cornwall

A report from the Western Morning News describes strange lights seen in Cornwall, leading to numerous calls to a local radio station. One witness reported seeing lights descending into a field.

Washington D.C. Air Chase

This article recounts reports of UFOs over Washington D.C. in July 2002, where NORAD scrambled two F.16 jets to intercept an unknown aircraft detected by radar. Despite the scramble, the object disappeared, and military officials stated nothing was found, though witnesses reported seeing a light blue object.

Watch out – Hercobulus is about!

This section reviews a book titled 'Hercobulus or Red Planet' by V.M. Rabolu, which claims a hypothetical planetary body is approaching Earth. The author asserts this is a prophecy that will be fulfilled shortly.

'Oh yes I will'!

An email from UFO researcher Charles Huffer recounts an interaction with President George W. Bush during a campaign rally in November 2002. Huffer reminded the President of a promise to tell the truth about UFOs, to which Bush responded, 'Yes'.

Book Project

Don Johnson of CUFOS is undertaking a project to write a daily column about UFO-related events. The article highlights 'sample' encounters for October 31st, including a silver disc UFO in Brazil, nocturnal light reports in England, a blue beam incident in Western Australia, and a sighting in Yellowstone National Park.

A WEEKEND AT HOURNE FARM

This is a personal account of a UFO/Psychic 'Workshop' held at Hourne Farm in East Sussex. The author, Alan Hilton, Graham Sheppard, Marcus Allen, and Max Burns were among the speakers. The event covered topics such as UFOs, psychic phenomena, and the Philadelphia Experiment.

UFO INTERFERENCE EFFECTS – AIRCRAFT & MISSILE CASES

This section, authored by Geoff Falla, explores incidents where UFOs have reportedly interfered with aircraft and missile systems. It notes that while many UFO sightings have conventional explanations, some exhibit 'high-strangeness' characteristics, including radar-visual cases, physical traces, and electromagnetic effects on vehicles and aircraft.

#### Sample UFO effect reports - from aircraft and missile effect cases:

• Bass Strait, Australia (1944): A Beaufort bomber experienced radio and direction finding instrument failure for twenty minutes while a flickering light and flame were observed alongside.
• Ryukyu Islands (1955): A Beechcraft aircraft experienced engine faltering and instrument failure while a hat-shaped object with apertures flew around it.
• Santa Catarina, Brazil (1957): A Varig C47 cargo airliner observed a luminous disc-shaped object that caused engines to miss and cabin lights to dim.
• Riga, Latvia (1961): A test flight of a new jet fighter was prevented from starting its engine by a triangular, violet-coloured object. The object was filmed, but the film was confiscated.
• Nha Trang, Vietnam (1966): Generators, vehicles, and aircraft experienced power failures and immobilization when a bright light dropped from the sky and then ascended rapidly.
• Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana, USA (1967): Strange lights were reported near underground missile installations, and six to eight missiles became unlaunchable.
• Mansfield, Ohio, USA (1973): A helicopter crew observed a cigar-shaped object that caused the helicopter to rise unexpectedly, and communications failed.
• Tehran, Iran (1976): An unidentified object was pursued by two Phantom jets, but the pilots' firing devices and radio communications failed within a five-kilometre radius.
• Heilongjliang Province, China (1982): Chinese Air Force pilots experienced electrical power system malfunctions, communication failures, and navigation system issues while observing a yellowish-green flying object.
• Ukraine, USSR (1983): A UFO was reported stationary near an intercontinental missile base, affecting the firing mechanisms of the missiles.
• Asuncion, Paraguay (1991): Air traffic control detected an unknown radar track, and an object was seen hovering over a runway.

EJUFOAS

The European Journal of UFO and Abduction Studies is highlighted as a publication that presents UFO-related papers in a scientific manner, with a list of its Editorial Board members provided.

Argentinean Abduction

This section details an abduction experience from Argentina in 1983 involving Julio Platner, who reported being in an 'operating room' with short humanoids and having blood extracted.

Scientific Teleportation

An item from the Associated Press reports that Australian scientists have successfully 'teleported' a laser beam encoded with data, replicating an experiment from the Californian Institute of Technology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently explores the unexplained, with a focus on UFO sightings, alleged encounters, and technological anomalies. There is a clear interest in scientific investigation and historical documentation of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various theories and reports while acknowledging the challenges of hoaxes and the need for credible evidence. The inclusion of scientific advancements like teleportation and energy generation from water suggests a broader interest in cutting-edge technology alongside UFO research. The journal also touches upon the potential for advanced weaponry and the implications of such phenomena for global security, particularly in the context of the Cold War era reports.

This issue of the New BUFORA Journal, dated December 2002, Issue No. 5, with ISSN 1476-5314, focuses on the 50th anniversary of UFO research in New Zealand and includes various UFO sighting reports from the UK and Finland.

50th Anniversary of UFO Research in New Zealand

The issue highlights the 50th anniversary of UFO research in New Zealand, which was marked on October 12, 2002. The anniversary commemorates the formation of the 'Civilian Saucer Investigations (New Zealand)' (CSI (NZ)) group on October 12, 1952. The group was initially a 'closed group' that later opened to public subscription, growing to 500 subscribers. It published a newsletter called 'Flying Saucers' (later 'Spaceprobe') and held meetings in Auckland. Several branches were formed across New Zealand, and correspondence was established with overseas groups.

RNZAF Sergeant Harold Fulton was the driving force behind CSI (NZ). In 1953, the sensational book 'Flying Saucers Have Landed' by George Adamski and Desmond Leslie was published. Subsequently, Adamski Correspondence Groups were formed in New Zealand. Initially, Harold Fulton tolerated the Adamski approach but became more critical. Following Adamski's 1959 New Zealand tour, the Adamski Correspondence Groups renamed themselves 'New Zealand Scientific Space Research' (NZSSR). Later, the South Island Group broke away, suggesting Adamski's photos were faked, and formed 'SATCU' and later 'Xenolog'. The North Island Group continued its publication 'Spaceview'.

Harold Fulton was later posted to Ohakea Air Force Base and continued his UFO research independently. He served as New Zealand Consultant to APRO and NICAP and was appointed MUFON's Director for New Zealand in 1973, a position he held until his death in 1986. His records were passed on to Murray Bott, the current New Zealand Director for MUFON.

The Tauranga Group, formed in the late 1950s as an 'Adamski Correspondence Group', is noted as New Zealand's longest continually running UFO organisation. They have held conferences and symposiums.

Significant historical events mentioned in New Zealand include the 1959 'Close Encounter' case near Blenheim, the 1978 Kaikoura events, and the UFO Wave in the Waimata Valley near Gisborne in late 1977/early 1978. The issue also notes the 1978 speaking tour by Erich von Daniken and the 7th World Conference of the Ancient Astronauts Society in 1980.

Efforts are being made to preserve historical UFO-related material, with Murray Bott of Auckland managing a significant archive. Peter Hassall in Wellington is also establishing a similar archive. Contact details for Mutual UFO Network (NZ), Unusual Data Investigation Service, and the Tauranga UFO Investigation Group are provided.

UFO Sightings and Incidents

The journal details several UFO sighting reports:

• Cessna Aircraft Malfunction: A Cessna aircraft with three passengers experienced instrument malfunctions during close approaches with an unidentified object that appeared to be under intelligent control.
• Lake Inarijarvi, Finland (16/4/98): A jet fighter pilot observed five glowing, orange, disc-shaped objects. When attempting to intercept, his aircraft's targeting computer and head-up display malfunctioned, and his cannon and missile systems became inoperable.
• Maes-Athen Estate, United Kingdom (Various dates in September 1998): Multiple reports from this area include:
• A 'bullet-shaped' object, bright white with a red band and red lights, which descended slowly and appeared to change shape.
• Two strange figures, approximately 6ft+ tall, dressed in one-piece suits, were seen walking across a field.
• A report by Mrs. Owen of a 'silver ball' object seen at an elevation of 25 degrees.
• A 12-year-old witness saw a circular object emitting bright light.
• A report by Mrs. Owen of a 'flying saucer' landing in a nearby field, followed by seeing three tall men walking parallel to a hedge.
• Mrs. Patricia Parry saw an oval, silver-white light hovering and revolving.
• Jeremy Burford saw a strange, slow-moving light that manoeuvred and accelerated away, emitting a brilliant white light with a purple haze.
• Carmen Burford saw a brilliant white, flashing light that changed to yellow and left a black 'cigar outline'.
• Mrs Garnett and her stepdaughter saw a circular, silver object moving slowly, then accelerating southeastwards.
• Near Denbigh, United Kingdom (26/1/1979): Chef Keith Jones and his employer John Mace witnessed an elongated oval craft with a dome, emitting a brilliant white light, hovering about 100-150 feet above the ground. Two police officers were also witnesses.
• Llandaff, United Kingdom (19/1/1999): Three witnesses saw a bright, flashing light which resolved into a triangular-shaped object hovering at an estimated 1,000 feet above a tennis field, with a steady red light in the centre of its underside.
• Cardiff, United Kingdom (November 1985): Six round lights in two triangular formations were seen moving silently over the rooftops.
• Llanberis, Gwynedd, United Kingdom (21/12/1994): Three witnesses saw a bright object moving across the sky with an 'up and down' movement, which disappeared behind a hill.
• Llandudno, United Kingdom (6/1/1999): A large, triangular object with many lights was observed stationary across the bay, ascending at tremendous speed after an hour.
• Rhos, Nr. Wrexham, United Kingdom (End of January 1999): A football-size and shaped object was seen hovering over an area called 'The Flood', with about ten people pointing at it.
• Gwaenys Mountains, Prestatyn, United Kingdom (3/9/1998): A young couple saw a strange light out to sea, which later appeared as a huge, round, yellow, glowing object hovering over the sea, with bright white 'stars' and dull 'tadpole shapes'.
• Near Fforest Fach, Swansea, United Kingdom (November 1998): A circle of different coloured lights was seen moving backwards and forwards.
• Tremeirchion country road, United Kingdom (25/6/1999): A small craft was seen descending from hills, appearing jet-black with a brilliant white light.
• Anglesey, United Kingdom (July 1999): Mrs. Williams saw four dark-brown 'columns', somewhat pear-shaped, appearing above the road and moving along with her car.
• Colwyn Bay, United Kingdom (31/7/1999): Mr. and Mrs. S. Davies reported seeing three concentric rings pulsating and revolving, described as a huge object, at least 100 feet across.
• Bodfari, United Kingdom (10/11/1999): Councillor David Foulds saw a craft sitting in a field, described as having the 'length of a football pitch' with lighted windows.
• Abergele, United Kingdom (22/3/1999): Margaret Fry reported seeing a white cigar-shaped object, about 35 feet long, hovering near a police helicopter.

Indian Intruders

This section reports on alleged UFO activity in India, specifically in Uttar Pradesh. Villagers claim that 'Flying Spheres' emitting blue and red lights have caused unexplained injuries, including deaths, and scratches. Police Superintendent Kavinara Singh suggested it might be a nine-centimetre-long insect. Professor Ravindra Arora suggested 'ball lightning' as a cause for burn injuries, while dismissing face scratches. The Uttar Pradesh government has requested the Indian Institute of Technology to investigate if a remote device is being used for mischief. The local name for the entity is 'Muhnochva', meaning 'someone who claws the face'. Music companies are cashing in on the scare, and the Times of India reported that the national intelligence bureau was investigating, constructing a replica of the alleged object.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently reports on UFO sightings, historical research, and investigations. It appears to maintain a stance of documenting and presenting evidence from various sources, including witness testimonies and official reports. The editorial focus is on UFO phenomena, their potential implications, and the history of UFO research, particularly within the UK and New Zealand. The inclusion of detailed incident reports and historical accounts suggests a commitment to thorough archival work within the field of ufology.

Title: New BUFORA Journal
Issue Date: December 2002
Issue Number: No.5
Publisher: BUFORA (British UFO Research Association)
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Language: English

This issue of the New BUFORA Journal delves into various aspects of UFO research and related phenomena, featuring reports from India and the UK, a book review, and information about BUFORA's activities.

Reports and Findings

Extraterrestrial Life Discovery

Reports from India detail a significant announcement by Indian researchers from the Indian Space Research Organisation. Jayant Narlikar stated that they believe they have discovered traces of extraterrestrial life in the form of microbes. These samples were collected outside the Earth's atmosphere, specifically 41 kilometres above the Earth's surface, during an experiment using a sophisticated cryosampler. Narlikar mentioned that biologists are currently working to verify the origin of these micro-organisms, which resemble coccus, fungal, and rod-like bacillus. He emphasized that if confirmed, this discovery would prove the existence of life beyond Earth and could open new avenues for global scientific inquiry. The samples might contain microbial life originating from comets or other celestial objects.

UFO Sightings

Reports from the Srikaluham area in the Andhra Pradesh region of India describe 'multi-coloured lights' observed seawards on several occasions during the latter part of October 2002. Residents reported these lights were visible for several minutes at a time over a period of about a week. The journal also notes a report from George A. Filer, Director of MUFON Eastern, regarding these findings.

Ernie Sears from Netley Abbey, Southampton, reports that he is currently investigating seven sightings in the Southampton and surrounding areas between September 7th and October 10th. One of these cases involves 60 minutes of missing time and an alleged abduction.

'Rod-like' Bacillus and UFOs

The editor's note draws a parallel between the reported 'rod-like' bacillus discovered in space samples and the recent incidence of 'rod-like' objects seen in UFO sightings, ranging in size from centimetres to feet.

UFORUM - Correspondence and Commentary

Channelling and 'High Spirit Entities'

Norman receives a letter from a correspondent who notes the journal's editorial reference to 'channelling' and its connection to UFO areas. The writer mentions being aware of this for many years and discusses a letter from Leo Sprinkle, a professional abductee researcher. The correspondent recounts a dramatic encounter with the 'energy' of monoliths at Avebury, which led to an introduction to one of Sprinkle's 'paranormalist' groups. This group had been brought over from the USA under the 'Ambassadors to Ambassadors' initiative. The writer also mentions a channelling session attended at Fort Collins, Carolina, with 'high spirit entities', hosted by Sir John Whitmore and Phyllis V. Schlemmer at the home of Michael and Deborah Lindemann. This meeting was arranged by Paola Harris, an Italian teacher and journalist writing a book about UFO investigators.

Council of Nine and 'The Only Planet of Choice'

The writer references Phyllis Schlemmer's book 'The Only Planet of Choice' (1993), which features information channelled from the 'Council of Nine' and 'Hoova'. The writer notes strong connections with the Middle East and attempts to ease violence, suggesting that not much has changed in this regard. The book is described as similar to earlier works involving Andrija Puharich and Uri Geller.

'Occupants of the Craft'

Referencing a 'Council of Nine' statement from 1993, the writer agrees with Stanton Friedman's suggestion that greater concern should be placed on the 'occupants of the craft' rather than the craft themselves. This sentiment, however, is noted as not being embraced with much enthusiasm even currently.

Personal Experiences and BUFORA Talk

The writer shares personal experiences, including involuntary dealings with 'the others' and an acquired 'healing gift' following close encounters in 1978. They note BUFORA's increasing allowance for such esoteric disciplines. The writer also recalls their own BUFORA talk in December 2000, where they reiterated their view that 'all is linked', a concept increasingly supported by modern physicists.

Séances and Unexplained Events

An anecdote is shared about an SPR member suggesting séances as a means to uncover the origins of the Raudive Voices. This prompted the writer to hold an informal séance, which seemed meaningful to those who felt 'helped' by the naming of deceased relatives. A more dramatic incident followed when four witnesses saw a heavy metal cigarette lighter fly across the room and hit the skirting board. The location was noted for having experienced strange happenings for years, including two close encounters with a hovering 'craft' displaying brilliant white lights.

Scepticism and Misidentification

Ernie Sears comments on the Springfield 1897 'Adam and Eve' encounter, suggesting it was a hoax, similar to the Aurora 1897 'crash/burial' story and the Le Roy 1897 cattle mutilation story. He notes that Dr. J. Allen Hynek effectively disposed of the Aurora case in 1966, and a family member confessed about the Le Roy case. Sears concludes that the Springfield case was also likely a hoax.

Photos from Readers

Sears offers two photos for which he holds the copyright, in response to a request in the June issue.

Letters to the Editor

The Nature of UFO Evidence

T. Sandy from Darnley, Glasgow, addresses the common skeptical argument that UFOs are merely misidentifications of ordinary objects. Sandy proposes a reverse logic: could sightings of ordinary objects actually be unusual incidents that witnesses fail to recognize as such? The writer also touches upon less mundane ideas like shapeshifting UFOs with chameleon circuits or occupants with mind-altering capabilities, citing an example from a Peter Hough book where an alien prevented a man from recognizing a flying saucer.

Prejudice and Reality

Sandy further discusses how people's own prejudiced views of reality can lead them to ignore truth in favor of a belief system, whether pro- or anti-UFO. The writer suggests that people see what they want to believe rather than believe what they see, even if it contradicts their understanding of reality.

Fake UFO Photos

Malcolm Stroud submits photos of fake flying saucer pictures he took at Gotts Park, Armley, Leeds, on New Year's Day 2000. He explains that the 'saucer' was a silver model made from two clock faces, thrown into the air. He also points to a real 'UFO' in picture No.1, top right.

Dr. Hynek's View on UFO Photos

Stroud recalls Dr. J. Allen Hynek's statement that the most one can say about the authenticity of a UFO photograph is that one has done one's best to disprove it and failed.

Book Review: Earth Under Fire

Author: Paul LaViolette
Reviewer: Brian Allan
Publisher: Starlane Publishing
Price: $20
ISBN: 0-9642025-2-2

Brian Allan reviews Paul LaViolette's book 'Earth Under Fire', which attempts to prove that Earth has been repeatedly affected by planet-wide cosmic disasters, termed 'Galactic Superwaves'. The book draws evidence from hard science, alongside Egyptian, Native American, Toltec, Norse, and Shamanic legends. LaViolette proposes that these superwaves, bursts of high-velocity cosmic rays from the galactic center, are cyclic over a 10,000-year period and are responsible for events like the biblical flood, the last Ice Age, and the extinction of dinosaurs. The book also suggests that supernovae may be triggered by these events.

LaViolette's evidence includes astronomical data and analysis of dust from deep-drilled ice cores, examining radiation levels and particle composition. He suggests that dust from superwave explosions expanded through the galaxy, acting as a heat shield that cooled Earth, leading to the Ice Age. As the dust thinned, Earth warmed, melting the ice.

The reviewer notes that while the book is well-written and easy to read, it requires prior knowledge of physics and astronomy. A contradiction is highlighted: the book relies heavily on scientific evidence but also includes selected 'channelled' information, which the reviewer finds of dubious veracity and casts doubt on the scientific evidence.

LaViolette warns that another superwave is due shortly, potentially causing a shift in Earth's magnetic poles and an electromagnetic pulse that could damage satellites and pre-empt nuclear war. His suggested defense is a force field to deflect the superwave.

The reviewer concludes that the book is an excellent addition for technically aware readers and researchers seeking answers to ancient enigmas.

About BUFORA

BUFORA was founded in 1962 as a federation of regional UFO groups in the UK, with many groups originating in the 1950s. It was known as the British UFO Association until 1964 when it became the British UFO Research Association. BUFORA is a company limited by guarantee since 1975. It is registered under the UK Data Protection Act, and membership records are held on a computer database, which are not released to third parties.

BUFORA is run by volunteers, funded by its members, and managed by a Council of Management. Membership is open to all who support the association's aims.

Aims of BUFORA

The three 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.
3. To co-ordinate UFO research throughout the United Kingdom and to co-operate with others engaged in such research worldwide.

Activities of BUFORA

BUFORA organizes regular lectures on UFO-related topics. Members receive six issues per year of the 'New BUFORA Journal', which includes details of investigated reports and research projects. BUFORA also operates the 'UFOCALL' information service, providing updates on events via phone (09068 121 886, charged at 60p per minute).

Publications of BUFORA

Details of available publications, including back issues of the Journal, can be obtained from the registered office. Some BUFORA publications are also available through Spacelink Books.

Spacelink Books

Spacelink Books is presented as having the largest selection in Britain of UFO and Close Encounter related paperbacks, hardbacks, and second-hand titles. Their free stock lists cover categories such as Abductions, Age-Old Enigmas, Anti-Gravity, Conspiracies, Crop Circles, Cryptozoology, Earth Mysteries, Lost Civilisations, Paranormal, UFOs (over 500 titles), UFO Videos (over 30 titles), Half-Price Bargains, and Second-hand Bargains. The company has been trading since 1967 and offers a hassle-free service with orders despatched by return.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently explores the UFO phenomenon from a research-oriented perspective, encouraging scientific inquiry and the collection of evidence. It acknowledges esoteric disciplines like channelling and psychic phenomena, suggesting a broad approach to understanding the unknown. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded yet critical, as seen in the discussion of hoaxes and the need for rigorous verification of evidence, such as the microbial life discovery. There is an emphasis on the importance of investigating the 'occupants' of UFOs, not just the craft themselves. The journal also highlights the activities and publications of BUFORA, positioning itself as a platform for disseminating research and fostering a community of interest.