1960s - UFO Handbook No.1 Malcolm Bull

Magazine Overview

This document is the first in a series of UFO Handbooks, titled 'UFO HANDBOOK 1', published by THE BRITISH U. F. O. ASSOCIATION and authored by F. Malcolm Bull. It serves as a comprehensive guide for individuals interested in observing and reporting sightings of unidentified flying objects (UFOs).

Methods of Observation

The handbook outlines three principal methods for obtaining data regarding UFO sightings, each with its own advantages concerning the accuracy of observed features:

Radar

This method is primarily for detecting flying objects, whether identified or not. A key advantage is its usability in misty or cloudy weather. However, visual confirmation is advised to avoid confusion with conventional aircraft. The text mentions reports of unexplained 'blips' on radar screens, including a phenomenon of concentric circles seen emanating from and closing in on London, which was later attributed to starlings but suggests that not all unexplained radar signals have mundane origins.

Photography

Two subdivisions of the photographic method are discussed:

1. Ancillary to Human Observer: The camera is used by a human observer to film UFOs once located.
2. All-Sky Mirror with Camera: This method uses a camera with a convex mirror to reflect the entire sky onto a photographic unit. It can be improved with a rotating shutter to estimate the speed of objects by creating interrupted trails on the film. This technique, especially with a cine-camera and an all-sky mirror, is considered a valuable recording medium that could potentially replace the human observer. Continuous exposure with a still camera is also viable, provided nearby lights and the moon do not cause overexposure. A simple box camera has a limited field of view but can still be useful. Mounting the camera on a rotating axis can help eliminate star trails caused by Earth's rotation, though this is noted as difficult and unnecessary. For film, a fast, fine-grain film is recommended. For cine-cameras, a low speed (around 8 frames per second) with a large aperture is suggested for a speeded-up film.

Visual Observation

This is presented as the cheapest and best system, despite its accuracy sometimes being questionable. Advantages include the ability to differentiate between various objects (aircraft, birds, etc.) and to quickly note details like shape, color, brightness, and apparent size. The handbook stresses that reliable information requires a specialized technique and experienced observation, as objects are often visible only briefly. Practice is emphasized as key to improving observational skills.

How and What to Observe

General hints are provided for observing without equipment. Most sightings are accidental, but interest in organized sighting expeditions is growing. Observers are advised to watch carefully, noting the object's behavior and other features. 'Averted vision' (directing the eye slightly to the side of the object) can help see faint lights, as the retina is more sensitive to the side. Sensitivity to faint images increases after being in the dark due to the formation of 'night purple'. Using a red lamp for notes or charts is recommended to avoid affecting night vision.

The handbook details the necessary information for a reasonably accurate assessment of a sighting:

1. Situation:
* Date and Time: Emphasizes unambiguous recording (e.g., '10th November, 1963') to avoid confusion, especially with US date formats. It specifies the rule: DAY first in numerals, MONTH second in letters, YEAR last in numerals. For time, it requires Greenwich Mean Time (preferably), Civil Time (a.m./p.m. or 24-hour clock), indication of standard or summer time, and Time Zone if applicable. A method for accurately determining sighting time using a clock and Greenwich Time Signals is described.
* Place: Requires the true geographical position, including postal address, a sketch map, nearest town, and National Grid references if known. Details about the observer's location (e.g., in a car, house) and whether the object was viewed through glass are also important. If observed from a moving vehicle, details like height above sea level, direction of motion, and speed of the vehicle are needed. Any optical apparatus used (binoculars, telescopes) should be described.

2. Details of the Object(s):
* Behavior: This section covers movements and is subdivided into:
* Speed: Distinguishes between true velocity and 'apparent speed' (degrees per second). A formula is provided to calculate apparent speed. It also explains how angular distance relates to object size and distance, noting that objects appearing as points of light are likely over 1000 times their diameter away. A table provides approximate angular sizes for finger width, a halfpenny, and an outstretched hand at arm's length. The relationship between angular velocity and distance to find linear velocity is mentioned.
* Direction: Notes should include compass bearings or, preferably, a sketch of the path amongst stars using tools like a Philips Planisphere or Norton's Star Atlas. For daytime sightings, the sun's position and the object's flight relative to landmarks are important. Compass bearings for unusual features like changing color or breaking up, and the position of appearance/disappearance, should be recorded.
* Manner of Disappearance: How the object vanished (e.g., vanishing, receding, fading, breaking up, disappearing behind objects) should be noted.
* Number of Objects: A rough estimate is sufficient for large numbers. A 'persistence of vision' trick is suggested for counting objects after gazing at them.
* Duration of Flight: Accurate timing is difficult. Observers are advised to practice counting at one-second intervals. For longer sightings, a watch is preferable. Duration should be reported in hours, minutes, and seconds, with an estimated accuracy.
* Any Other Features: This covers miscellaneous effects that could help eliminate confusion with conventional aircraft or natural phenomena. These include:
* Disturbance of radio/television reception.
* Displacement of solid objects, stones, leaves, etc.
* Burning or scorching of the ground.
* Any noise produced by or accompanying the object.
* Any smell coming from the object or a side-effect.
* Any other magnetic, electrical, thermal, or luminous effects.
* Shape: Many UFOs are described as circular, oval, domed discs, cigars, or cylinders. 'Starlike' objects are common, partly due to the limits of human eye resolution. The text explains how resolution depends on the aperture and distance. An experiment to find eye resolution using pea-lamps is described. It concludes that objects appearing as points of light are very distant, while those with discernible outlines are relatively near. If a shape is discernible, it should be drawn, with special features of marking, color, or lighting indicated.
* Size: The relationship between size and distance is discussed; more distant objects appear smaller. A formula is provided relating angle subtended, object diameter, and distance.
* Color: (Implied to be recorded under 'Details of the object(s)')
* Brightness: (Implied to be recorded under 'Details of the object(s)')

3. Meteorological Conditions: (To be recorded)

4. Personal Details about the Observer: (To be recorded)

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The handbook adopts a systematic and scientific approach to UFO reporting, emphasizing the need for detailed, accurate, and objective data collection. It aims to equip observers with the tools and knowledge to contribute meaningfully to research. The tone is instructional and practical, encouraging careful observation and precise recording. The underlying stance is that UFO phenomena warrant serious investigation, and that rigorous methodology is crucial for distinguishing genuine anomalies from misidentifications or natural occurrences. The publication is clearly from an organization dedicated to the study of UFOs, promoting a structured approach to gathering evidence.

This document, likely an issue of a publication focused on UFO phenomena, delves into the technical and mathematical aspects of observing and recording aerial objects. It provides detailed methodologies for estimating key characteristics such as distance, size, altitude, and brightness, emphasizing the importance of precise measurements and calculations. The content is highly technical, aimed at individuals interested in rigorous data collection and analysis related to UFO sightings.

Mathematical Methods for Distance and Size Estimation

The initial sections focus on calculating the distance (D) and angular size (d) of an object. Equation (1) establishes a relationship between these variables using the tangent function: D/2d = tan(φ/2), which can be simplified to D = 2d tan(φ/2). For small angles (less than 14 degrees), the tangent is approximated by the angle in radians, leading to D = d.φ/2. When measuring angles in degrees, the formula becomes D = d.d/57.

Figure 2 illustrates the concept of angular size (d) versus actual size (D). The document suggests that the dimensions of D will be the same as those of d, and provides methods for estimating angular size, such as comparing the object's apparent size to familiar objects held at arm's length (e.g., a pinhead, a coin).

Estimating Distance Using Cloud Altitudes

Section (d) 'Distance' addresses the challenge of measuring distance when an object does not land. It proposes an approximate method by observing the object's passage relative to clouds of known altitudes. Cumulus clouds are noted to be at approximately one mile high, while cirrus clouds are higher, around eight miles. If 'e' is the angular elevation of the object as it passes the base of a cloud, the distance D can be calculated using the formula h = D sin.e, or rearranged as D = h cosec.e, where 'h' is the cloud height. For cumulus clouds (h=1 mile), the distance is D = cosec.e miles. For cirrus clouds (h=8 miles), the distance is D = 8 cosec.e miles.

Advanced Triangulation Methods for Distance and Height

Pages 3 and 4 introduce a more accurate, though complex, method involving simultaneous measurements from two observation points (A and B) on the Earth's surface. Figure 3 illustrates this scenario, where 'O' is the object, 'O'' is the subobjective point directly below 'O', and 'h' is the object's height. The method relies on measuring angular elevations (e_a, e_b) from points A and B, and bearings (N_a, N_b) relative to North. The angle β (AO'B) is derived from the difference in bearings.

The height 'h' is given by D_a tan.e_a = D_b tan.e_b, and the distance D_a from A is given by D_a = D'_a sec.e_a. Using the Sine Rule in triangle AO'B, D'_a / sin.β = S / sin.e, where S is the linear distance between A and B. Substituting and rearranging leads to formulas for D_a and D_b, and subsequently for 'h'.

Explicit equations (6) and (7) are provided for D_a, D_b, and h, involving S, bearings (N_a, N_b), and elevations (e_a, e_b). The quantities required are the bearing of A from B (A), angular altitudes (e_a, e_b), bearings of the object (N_a, N_b), and the linear distance between observation points (S). It is stressed that measurements must be accompanied by the exact time they were made for correlation.

Measuring Bearings and Elevations

Section (g) 'Measuring N and e' explains how to obtain the necessary bearings and elevations. Bearings (N) can be found using a compass or by determining the bearing of a landmark from a map. Elevation (e) can be measured using a piece of string held at arm's length, where sin.e = s/L (s=string length, L=distance from eye to hand), as depicted in Figure 4. In built-up areas, elevation can be noted relative to fixed points like church spires. A simple apparatus involving a ruler, protractor, and plumb line (Figure 5) is also described for measuring elevation, where the reading is 90° minus the plumb line's angle on the protractor.

Visibility Range and Area

Table II, 'Table of range of visibility of an object at a given height', provides data correlating an object's height with its separation of places (maximum distance between two points from which it is simultaneously visible) and its area of visibility. For instance, at a height of one mile, the maximum separation is 180 miles, and the object is visible up to 90 miles from the observer. This table can be used to eliminate objects by comparing reported sightings with the expected visibility ranges.

Object Characteristics: Color and Brightness

Section (e) 'Colour' states that color is an intrinsic feature of an object. It advises against using paints or crayons for reporting color due to shade difficulties, suggesting instead to draw the object and indicate its coloring. Variations in color during flight, and the ejection of colored material, smoke, or flame, should also be noted. A wide range of colors have been reported, from reds and oranges to greens, blues, and shades of grey.

Section (f) 'Brightness' explains that apparent brightness is inversely proportional to the square of the distance (b_1/b_2 = d_2^2/d_1^2). It suggests comparing a UFO's brightness to that of an electric light bulb at a known distance (e.g., 'like a 100 watt bulb at 50 yards') or to the magnitude of a known star (using TABLE III). Method (i) is preferred for objects with a definite outline. The document also briefly touches upon estimating apparent magnitude using a 'step method' for variable stars, but deems it too complex for general UFO observation. It notes that the human eye's sensitivity to color affects perceived brightness, and that color should always be stated when reporting brightness.

Under 'Brightness', descriptions of the object's luminous nature (self-luminous vs. reflecting sunlight/moonlight), transparency, shape definition (clearly defined vs. blurred), and surface reflectivity (dull vs. brightly reflecting) are also listed as relevant observations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this document are the rigorous application of scientific and mathematical principles to the study of UFOs, the importance of precise measurement and data recording, and the detailed analysis of observable characteristics. The editorial stance appears to be one of advocating for a systematic, data-driven approach to UFO investigation, providing tools and methodologies for observers to collect reliable information. The emphasis on exact time recording and the use of comparative methods (like cloud altitudes and star magnitudes) underscores a commitment to scientific accuracy within the context of UFO research.

This document appears to be a section from a guide or booklet focused on UFO research, detailing various aspects of collecting and analyzing sighting information. It covers meteorological conditions, observer details, report compilation, interviewing techniques, and associated phenomena.

Meteorological Conditions The first section discusses the importance of meteorological conditions, specifically referencing the Beaufort Scale of Wind Force. A table (TABLE V) is provided that correlates wind force numbers (0-10) with descriptions like 'Calm,' 'Light air,' 'Gentle breeze,' 'Strong gale,' and 'Whole gale,' along with criteria for recognition and estimated wind speeds in miles per hour. The text explains that wind force is useful for eliminating mistaken identities of airborne objects and that wind direction can be indicated by compass bearings. Another table (TABLE IV) presents abridged Beaufort Weather Codes (b, bc, c, o, d, f, g, h, l, m, p, r, s, t, v, z) describing various sky and weather conditions, such as 'blue sky,' 'cloudy sky,' 'drizzle,' 'fog,' 'hail,' 'lightning,' 'mist,' 'continuous rain,' 'snow,' 'thunder,' 'unusual visibility,' and 'dust haze.' It also mentions that unusual meteorological phenomena like haloes, sun-dogs, and unusual cloud formations should be described.

Personal Details About the Observer This section emphasizes the importance of collecting personal details from the witness, listing them as: - Name - Address - Telephone number - Age - Sex - Occupation - Visual defects (including color blindness, sight issues, and spectacles worn) - Educational background

It is also advised to mention any specialized training that might enhance estimation accuracy, such as R.A.F. qualifications. The report should include the names and addresses of any other witnesses, and individual written reports are preferred. A crucial note is to "never omit ANY information which might be at all relevant to the report, even negative results may be of importance!"

Compiling and Submitting the Report This part guides the reader on what to do after observing an unusual object. While notifying the police or newspapers is optional, the primary recommendation is to write a report of the sighting and send it to a UFO research organization as soon as possible. The report should be prepared on a sheet of paper, headed with the witness's contact details. The sighting should be described in a narrative form, prioritizing clarity and unambiguous facts over grammatical perfection. All measurements must be clearly identified. The document stresses that providing too much detail is better than too little, as research organizations will sift through it. Finally, the report should be signed by the witness with the date and forwarded without delay to a specified address (G. N. P. STEPHENSON Esq., 12 DORSET ROAD, CHEAM, Sutton, Surrey) or a local UFO research organization.

Subjects for Questions to be Asked of Persons Claiming to Have Seen a UFO A comprehensive list of questions for investigators to ask witnesses is provided, categorized under: - Witness: Name, Address, telephone number, Age, sex, Occupation, special training, Visual defects. - Sightings: Date; time, Place (with a sketch if possible), Location (indoors, in a car), speed, direction. - Meteorological Conditions: (Referencing the Beaufort Scale and codes). - Object(s): Shape (with a sketch if possible), Size (e.g., at arm's length), Colour, Brightness, Number of objects, formation, Speed, Direction, direction of motion, Height (angular), Distance (compared with trees, hills, clouds, etc.). - Other Effects: Noise, Heat, Smell, Disturbance of radio/t.v. reception, Displacement of solid objects, leaves, stones, etc., Psychological or physiological effects felt by witness, Other electrical, magnetic, thermal or luminous effects. - Any other eye witnesses: Names and addresses.

The section concludes by stating that repeating questions in varied forms can help the investigator assess the witness's good faith.

Interviewing Eye Witnesses This section details the approach to interviewing UFO witnesses. It suggests that an unannounced visit might yield more truthful answers than a forewarned witness who could fabricate an account. However, surprise visits might cause strain or refusal to cooperate. The questioning should be informal, especially with children and the elderly, to avoid discomfort. The information gathered should follow the tabulated list of questions, presented in a logical order to help the witness reconstruct their story. Answers should be recorded in ink, signed by the witness, and dated. Tape recording is also an option. The "Character of the eye witness" is deemed a most important factor in determining if a sighting is a hoax.

UFO's and Associated Phenomena This part discusses phenomena that might be connected to UFOs, including: - i) Craters, holes and other marks on the ground: This includes investigation of craters, tracks, damaged vegetation, and burn marks. Detailed procedures for photographing, measuring, and collecting samples are provided. Caution is advised due to potential unexploded bombs. - ii) Angels' Hair falling from the skies: Described as a fibrous substance that vaporizes rapidly. Investigators are advised to collect samples if possible and note its properties. - iii) Alleged 'contact' with inhabitants from 'flying saucers': Investigators are asked to gather information about the contact, the beings, their spacecraft, and related details, emphasizing the witness's character. - iv) Disappearance of aircraft: This is noted as having limited scope for amateur workers, with information often classified and handled by Air Forces. The case of Capt. Thomas Mantell is mentioned as a notable example. Investigators are urged to report factual information without speculation, as these cases often involve loss of life.

Organised Sighting Expeditions This final section provides guidance for organizing UFO sighting expeditions. It covers: 1. Organisation: Electing a director responsible for coordination and collation of reports. The group should decide how to utilize available facilities and delegate duties. 2. When: Choosing a date is difficult due to the unpredictable nature of sightings. Advice includes not planning too far ahead, choosing dates when participants are on holiday, considering daytime watches but preferring night for better detection (especially during long winter nights), and avoiding nights with high meteor activity to prevent confusion with natural phenomena. 3. Where: (Discussed in section 3, not fully detailed here). 4. How: (Discussed in section 4, not fully detailed here).

It is suggested that simultaneous observations by several parties could yield reliable quantitative records. The section also touches upon practicalities like accommodation, food, and entertainment during vigils, emphasizing the need for continuous watch by at least two people.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance The document adopts a systematic and investigative approach to UFO phenomena. It stresses the importance of factual reporting, careful observation, and the collection of detailed evidence, including meteorological data and witness testimony. The tone is instructional, guiding amateur researchers on how to conduct investigations rigorously. There is an implicit acknowledgment of the UFO phenomenon as a subject worthy of serious study, while also cautioning against speculation and emphasizing the need to rule out natural explanations. The editorial stance is one of encouraging thoroughness, objectivity, and a scientific methodology in the pursuit of understanding these events.

Title: UFO REVIEW
Issue: 3
Volume: 1
Date: 1954

This issue of UFO REVIEW provides practical guidance for organizing and conducting UFO sighting expeditions, alongside a table of meteor shower data. It emphasizes systematic observation and detailed reporting.

Expedition Planning and Methodology

The article "Where" suggests that Aime Michel's theory of Orthoteny might be useful in selecting locations for sighting expeditions. A particularly active area is noted along a band a few miles wide on either side of a line from Southend-on-Sea, Essex, to the Sound of Barra, Outer Hebrides. However, it is stressed that UFOs can be seen from all parts of the country, and indeed the world.

For the actual site of an expedition, it is advised to move away from bright lights and neon signs, setting up camp in the country. Activity has often been reported near industrial regions and airfields, which may indicate possible grounds for expeditions. The importance of correlating data from all parts of the world is highlighted for developing theories.

The "How" section details the steps for a group expedition. It suggests reading through a list of required information and noting how available facilities can be employed. Specific methods include:

• Radar: Unlikely to be used by amateur groups.
• Photography: A cine camera with an all-sky mirror is recommended. Exposing one frame every quarter-hour to record sky conditions is suggested, with continuous running during UFO activity. Time exposures may be necessary.
• Visual Observation: Using binoculars, telescopes, etc. It is noted that images of stars might be distorted or surrounded by concentric rings if instruments are not specially adapted for night use. The power of lenses and magnification should be stated in the report.
• Date: Essential for the report.
• Time: Essential, and watches should be checked before and after the expedition.
• Place: Plotting the location on a map, indicating landmarks, churches, etc., is crucial for determining the object's direction. Six points mentioned in an article should be noted.
• Behaviour of the object(s): This includes speed, direction (best determined by landmarks), number of objects (drawing formations), duration (using a stopwatch), and other features.
• Shape: Small sketch blocks are convenient for recording shape.
• Size: To be recorded.
• Distance: This is presented as extremely interesting. Two or more groups set up at least fifteen miles apart (up to fifty miles) are needed to find distance and height. An alternative is for two separate groups or societies to set up parties. The more parties, the more accurate the results. Constructing an inexpensive instrument shown in fig.5 (page 12) is suggested, measuring only N and e. The exact time of measurements must be recorded.
• Brightness: A star map can be useful for finding the brightness of stars.
• Meteorological Conditions: To be recorded.
• Personal Details: To be recorded.

A log book is recommended for recording details of anything seen in the sky, including meteors, aurorae, aircraft, and satellites, along with times. Weather details and clouds might also be recorded. A portable tape recorder is ideal for recording commentary during activity.

Meteor Shower Data

Table VI lists various meteor streams, their names, the date of maximum activity ('Max'), and an approximate hourly rate ('H.R.').

• Quadrantids: Jan 3, H.R. 28
• Lyrids: Apr 21, H.R. 10
• Eta Taurids: May 4, H.R. 12
• Arietids: Jun 7, H.R. 50
• Zeta Taurids: Jun 7, H.R. 40
• Beta Taurids: Jul 1, H.R. 24
• Delta Aquarids: Jul 28, H.R. 20
• Alpha Piscid Australids: Jul 29, H.R. 26
• Perseids: Aug 12, H.R. 56
• Giacobinids: Oct 9, H.R. 14
• Orionids: Oct 20, H.R. 20
• Taurids: Nov 7, H.R. 10
• Leonids: Nov 15, H.R. 20
• Andromedids: Nov 23, H.R. 10
• Geminids: Dec 12, H.R. 30
• Ursids: Dec 22, H.R. 10

Explanations are provided for the naming of meteor streams (derived from the area of the sky they emanate from, e.g., Lyrids from Lyra) and the meaning of 'Max' (date of peak activity) and 'H.R.' (hourly rate for a single observer).

Three displays marked with an asterisk (*) are daytime streams. Otherwise, the period of maximum activity occurs between midnight and dawn.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging systematic, scientific investigation into UFO phenomena. There is a strong emphasis on data collection, accurate reporting, and the use of logical methods, even for amateur groups. The inclusion of meteor shower data suggests an interest in distinguishing between known astronomical phenomena and potential UFOs. The publication aims to provide practical tools and advice for those interested in pursuing these investigations seriously.