1989 - UFO World 89 BUFORA Jenny Randles

Magazine Overview

'The UFO World '89' is a publication compiled by Jenny Randles on behalf of the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA). The issue covers a period of significant UFO activity in 1987 and 1988, aiming to provide context for these events from an international perspective. The editorial emphasizes the task of placing unfolding incidents into a broader understanding, acknowledging the contributions of numerous UFOlogists worldwide.

International Review

Africa

The review of Africa highlights the limited knowledge of UFO events on the continent, largely thanks to the efforts of Cynthia Hind. A notable case from La Rochelle, Zimbabwe, involved a light that appeared to natives as 'ancestors' or 'spirits', with witnesses having difficulty describing the intense silvery glow. Another significant event was a landing with physical traces at Rosmead, South Africa, on November 12, 1972. A primary school's tennis court was decimated by a force, with witnesses reporting strange red lights. Investigations revealed unusual damage, including holes in the tarmac and burning on trees, with no evidence of vandalism or radiation.

Cynthia Hind favors the hypothesis of a physical UFO landing, while a scientist suggested a whirlwind. The case is compared to British 'crop circles,' with Dr. Terence Meaden's theory of a rotating ionized vortex mentioned. The review also delves into 'abduction' cases, presenting the story of a young woman from Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, who experienced recurrent 'travelling' dreams involving a 'man in white' and beings from another dimension monitoring Earth. Her experiences are compared to the Roestenberg family case from 1954 in Staffordshire, UK.

Australia

In Australia, the Mundrabilla case was a major focus, making international headlines. Abductions are also a point of interest, though the continent has a low record of such reports. UFO Research Australia has been studying potential CE4 cases, including an encounter of Joseph Chanas in Woomera in 1966 or 1967, where he experienced paralysis and disorientation after seeing several UFOs. The lack of spontaneous abduction recollections is contrasted with the popularity of Whitley Strieber's book 'Communion.' Australian UFOlogy tends to view abduction stories as altered states of consciousness or visionary episodes, citing the 'Puddy' abduction from Victoria State. Sociologist Bob Bartholomew and UFOlogist Keith Basterfield have examined psychological research into 'fantasy prone personalities' as a potential explanation for abduction traits.

Leading Australian UFOlogist Bill Chalker has investigated missing abductions, noting cases like the one in Springwood, New South Wales, involving a blue light and a disc-shaped UFO. Chalker also notes parallels between abductions and aboriginal traditions of shamans conversing with 'star people.' The typical 'American alien' is absent in Australian cases, replaced by entities of varying types and sizes, suggesting a psychological explanation. The Australian Centre for UFO Studies and UFORA work collaboratively. Keith Basterfield's retrospective analysis of the 1975 Kempsey UFO photo suggests it might be a daylight atmospheric mirage of Venus, though original investigator Bill Chalker remains unconvinced.

Belgium

Belgium's UFOlogy scene is characterized by a computer-aided re-examination of the Kenneth Arnold sighting of June 24, 1947. Hans van Kampen's research for his book '40 Jaar UFO's' suggests the objects were likely Republic F-84 Thunderjets on a secret test flight. Van Kampen used a 3D computer program to compare Arnold's sketches with reconstructions of the aircraft. The official US government file termed the case an 'identified' optical mirage, but Arnold's account of his actions to prevent reflections casts doubt on this explanation. The fractionalized nature of UFO investigation in Benelux nations due to multiple languages is noted. A conference was held in Brussels in late 1988, bringing together researchers from around the world.

Brazil

An enormous conference was held in Rio de Janeiro in September 1988, focusing on the extra-terrestrial idea of UFO origin, with speakers like Jacques Vallee and Eric von Daniken. The group GEPEX from Sao Paulo reported that the Culture Minister and a senator witnessed a UFO shaped like a ball above Fortaleza City. One of Brazil's most famous cases involves photographs taken on January 16, 1958, near Trindade Island, depicting a Saturn-shaped object. While widely considered impressive evidence, Scottish skeptic Steuart Campbell has proposed a theory that these are daylight atmospheric mirages of Jupiter.

Canada

Canada's UFOlogy is influenced by its proximity to the United States, with regular meetings between the Canadian UFO Research Network and their US counterparts. A 'hot-line' service provides dramatic UFO stories. The issue revisits the Stephen Michalak affair from May 19, 1967, in Falcon Lake, Manitoba. Michalak, an amateur prospector, encountered two glowing domes, one of which landed. He sustained burns after touching the craft and experienced nausea and vomiting. Investigations revealed physiological effects, including burns and a chequered pattern on his stomach, and soil samples that were initially found to be 'hot.' While some early investigations were inconclusive or questioned, later analysis suggests the burns were from heat and chemicals, not radiation. The case was investigated by the US government's Condon project, which termed it 'unknown.' UFOlogist Chris Rutkowski re-investigated the case, finding evidence of radium traces in government documents that were not initially disclosed. He concluded there was no deliberate hoax. The review also touches upon Dr. Michael Persinger's theory that UFOs may be products of brain distortions triggered by energetic phenomena related to quartz-bearing sites.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of 'The UFO World '89' include the international scope of UFO phenomena, the ongoing debate between physical and psychological explanations for sightings and experiences, and the importance of rigorous investigation and re-examination of classic cases. The editorial stance, as expressed by Jenny Randles, is one of seeking to place UFO incidents into a comprehensible context, acknowledging the vast amount of data collected by UFOlogists globally, and encouraging continued research and reporting, particularly for future editions.

This issue of the National Investigations Committee (Bufora) bulletin, dated 1987, delves into UFO phenomena and research across various international locations, including Canada, Denmark, France, Italy, Israel, New Zealand, Scandinavia, and the Soviet Union. It highlights specific sightings, investigations, and the activities of UFO organizations and researchers.

Canada

The bulletin begins with UFOlogist Graham Conway's observations on dramatic UFO events in 1987. A wave of sightings occurred on the west coast in autumn, including a woman in Hatzic, British Columbia, who saw "flashing lights" on August 16. Police constable John Skorupa reported a "bright light hovering" near Matsqui on September 6. A local UFOlogist spent nights on Dewdney Peak, convinced of extraterrestrial visitation and government cover-up, though he only observed planets, stars, and airplanes. Conway suggests that an earth tremor, theorized by Persinger, might end such light shows. Notably, on September 16, 1987, an earthquake registering 3.6 on the Richter scale struck the Vancouver area, geographically centered within the reported sighting locations. Conway also mentions a sighting of two daylight discs three days before the earthquake.

Denmark

In Denmark, UFOlogists often interact with organizations like IGAP, which promotes 'contactee' theories, notably those of George Adamski. However, serious UFOlogist Per Andersen expresses dismay, stating that IGAP's efforts to persuade influential figures often result in politicians laughing at them. The Danish Prime Minister, Poul Schluter, was a target of an IGAP request for a secret meeting to discuss "space brothers," which he ultimately declined, stating "no basis for such a meeting."

Investigations and Credibility

Per Andersen emphasizes the need for serious UFOlogists to counter activities that undermine the subject's credibility. Danish investigations by UFO Nyt reveal ongoing phenomena, though many cases predate 1987. Notable Danish incidents include a car at Hobro being "held up" by a UFO emitting intense beams that blinded the driver, and a woman on a moped at Blodmosen being attacked by a bright light that drained her moped's energy. A similar event occurred in County Durham, UK, in June 1977. BUFORA offers a special report on vehicle interference cases.

Photographic Evidence and Hoaxes

UFO Nyt demonstrated how to handle photographic cases, referencing a 1984 Norwegian newspaper photo of a disc. Experts analyzed the photo, finding it difficult to fabricate. However, KODAK's subsequent advertising campaign, "Buy the UFO Camera," plugging a disc system used by the witness, raised suspicions. A sophisticated investigation involving a metallurgical laboratory and computer enhancement by Ground Saucer Watch in Arizona revealed a faint vertical line on the UFO, possibly from a model's string. Confronted, the witness admitted the photo was a hoax, intended to teach the public skepticism.

France

French UFOlogy, though vibrant and publishing magazines like "Lumiers dans la nuit" and "OVNI Presence," is largely unknown to English speakers. Regular cross-channel meetings since 1983 are poorly attended by British researchers due to language barriers. France has significant cases and perceptive UFOlogists, including figures like Dr. Jacques Vallee and Aime Michel. Bertrand Meheust is highlighted as a leading historical UFOlogist linking UFOs with science fiction and mythology.

The French government-sponsored UFO team GEPAN underwent reorganization, becoming more secretive. Previously, GEPAN, based at the Toulouse space centre, was known for its well-funded investigations, including a major report on a landing at Trans-en-Provence with inexplicable plant composition changes. Jean Velasco presented this case at a MUFON conference. Despite initial optimism about the public, government-funded UFO project, a "science council" review of cases noted that "great vigilance" was necessary in presenting results, as they proved the reality of UFOs.

Project Becassine (France)

Denys Breysse masterminded "Becassine," a major project in France focusing on entity cases (third and fourth kind encounters) to ensure statistically significant data. By the end of 1988, Breysse had 2003 entity reports. Analysis shows 'high point' years for entity cases, with October and August being the most active months. Encounters typically last between 3 and 8 minutes, longer than standard UFO sightings. Nearly 70% of witnesses are men, but this percentage rises for unexplained cases. The "typical observor" is likely alone, on a quiet country road, under 30 years old. A significant finding is that more people reported humming/whistling/buzzing noises from grounded UFOs compared to silent ones.

Entities seen are usually human-like, between 3 and 4 feet tall. Less than 3% of encounters involve attacks; most entities communicate telepathically or focus on monitoring. They are described as 'curious,' 'friendly,' 'cautious,' and 'secretive.' Project Becassine is encouraged for UFO research community participation.

Israel

An unusual report from Israel details a physical trace left by a UFO, described as the scorched silhouette of its alien pilot. In Haifa on September 28, 1987, Ami Achrai reported a bright light over the sea. Later, he found a burn on the ground. While the navy suggested it was a flare, Mrs. Achrai was convinced. Journalists and the Israeli UFO movement investigated. Hadassa Arbell suggested the scorch was from 'cold fire' radiation due to the UFO's engine trouble. The mark was described as the silhouette of a 3-foot-tall pilot. However, local citizens pointed to a discarded bottle, suggesting a mundane origin.

Italy

Italy experiences significant conflict between rival UFO associations, notably CUN (National UFO Centre) and CISU (Italian UFO Study Centre). In 1987, Edoardo Russo and others left CUN to form CISU. Roberto Pinotti of CUN and Gian Paolo Grassino of CISU engaged in a public dispute. CISU appears to be winning, focusing on semi-sceptical investigation, while CUN is seen as more cover-up oriented.

In 1987, CISU commissioned a Gallup survey of the Italian population, finding only 19% believed in UFOs (down from 35% in 1979, influenced by the Spielberg movie). However, 6.5% claimed to have seen a UFO (3 million Italians), a figure likely similar worldwide, suggesting most sightings are not archived. The survey also noted that UFOs are an objectively real, not sociological, issue, with only 4% never having heard of UFOs.

Abduction Phenomenon and Media Influence

American abduction books like Whitley Strieber's "Communion" and Budd Hopkins' "Intruders" were translated into Italian. "Communion" received mixed reviews, with some journalists misunderstanding its nature. The interest generated by these books led to false perceptions and hoaxes. On August 17, 1987, thousands reported a UFO in northern Italy, later identified as a meteor. A report of a UFO departing a field near Verona, leaving burnt grass circles, was investigated by CISU and suspected to be a hoax. Media coverage, including a live broadcast of contactee Eugenio Siragusa waiting for a landing, was criticized.

New Zealand

The arrival of "Communion" in New Zealand sparked interest in past abduction memories. Fred from Auckland, after reading an "Abduction" book, contacted UFOlogy. He recalled events from age 3 in 1942, a year considered significant for abductees. Fred described being in a rounded space with other humans, feeling attached to his back, and being told how to use something with membrane-like wings. He experienced crying when told to return home. As a child, he also experienced floating and being surrounded by small colored lights. Later in life, he had vivid dreams and encountered people in a restaurant who smiled and emitted a strange electrical sound in his head. He also witnessed a rounded ellipse with lights drift across the sky. The issue raises the question of distinguishing objective reality from subjective memory, and whether society is creating pseudo-abduction memories.

Scandinavia

Norway and Sweden are associated with Project Hessdalen, known for light phenomena since the early eighties. Expeditions have used spectrographs and lasers to photograph colored lights. While the cause is debated, evidence points to a natural atmospheric effect. Leif Havik published a book, "UFO-Fenomenet," in 1987. Attention has shifted to Sweden's Dalecarlia region, with numerous sightings in 1985-87. Unlike Norway, Swedish authorities were less helpful, and economic constraints limited advanced equipment like radar systems. An expedition in January 1987 had limited activity, with one incident involving a red light that pulsated. Photographs were obtained, offering hope for future research. Detailed reports are available from Johan Kinneryd.

Ghost Rockets and Soviet UFOlogy

The research team AFU in Scandinavia is studying "ghost rocket sightings" from 1946, initially thought to be captured Nazi V weapons, but now seen as having a deeper dimension. Reports of submarines in Scandinavian waters, with the ability to dematerialize, have also surfaced, with Russians often blamed. AFU is also investigating "ghost cruise missiles," believing these phenomena may be inter-related. The Swedish Defence archives have been opened to AFU, providing access to around 2000 reports from 1947 onwards, including radar-visuals involving air force pilots.

Glasnost in the USSR has led to increased openness in UFO research. A government team led by former Cosmonaut Pavel Popovich, including scientists from the Moscow Academy of Sciences, is operational. There is speculation that the shooting down of the Korean Airlines Jumbo Jet in September 1983 might be related to the UFO mystery.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue consistently highlights the global nature of UFO phenomena in 1987, with a focus on scientific investigation, the challenges of photographic evidence, and the impact of media and popular culture (like Strieber's book) on public perception and the creation of hoaxes or pseudo-memories. There's a recurring theme of distinguishing credible research from sensationalism and 'contactee' narratives. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous, evidence-based investigation, as seen in the critique of IGAP and the detailed analysis of photographic evidence and Project Becassine's statistical approach. The opening up of Soviet archives and the ongoing work at Hessdalen suggest a continued international effort in UFO research.

This issue of Bufora, published by the National Investigations Committee, delves into various UFO phenomena and related events across different countries, with a focus on incidents from the 1980s and earlier historical cases. The content spans Soviet UFO encounters, abduction experiences in Spain and the UK, and the controversial MJ-12 documents.

Soviet UFO Incidents

The magazine details two significant UFO incidents in the USSR. The first occurred less than six months before the fateful flight of a Korean Boeing 747, when a UFO was picked up on radar over Gorky on March 27, 1983. Described as a grey cigar shape without wings or tailfin, it cruised at 3000 feet and ignored radio warnings. Although no order to shoot was given, the incident was cited as unexplained and a key factor in a high-level inquiry. Later that summer, another UFO was sighted over the highly secret air space at Sakhalin Island. The Russians reported that a missile was launched, destroying a jet and all its passengers. The article suggests a possible link between these events and subsequent shifts in American-Soviet relations, including arms reduction treaties and President Reagan's 'star wars' initiative, implying that the UFO phenomenon may have been a catalyst for these changes.

A third incident involved another Boeing 747, this time belonging to British Airways, on April 22, 1987, over Kazakhstan. The crew reportedly diverted from their flight plan to avoid a UFO described as a mass of twinkling lights. Soviet ground control detected nothing on radar.

Abductions and Spanish UFOlogy

The issue explores the concept of UFO abductions, posing the question of whether they represent a 'transposition' of the UFO phenomenon. Researchers Vincente Juan Ballester Olmos and J A Fernandez are cited, suggesting that 'respected abductions' have substituted 'discredited contacts,' evolving from old-time space-age stories to contemporary technology-age narratives. The public presentation of such cases in Spain began as late as 1979, significantly later than in Britain and the USA. Their study of 3500 UFO cases identified 230 as 'first calibre close encounters,' with only six being abductions. They note that the entities involved in these cases vary widely, from normal-looking men to tall entities with pointed chins, hairy creatures, and green monstrous beasts. One abductee claimed to have stayed on an alien planet for four years and married an alien named Maria, eventually escaping to a world called Galaxy 38. Scientific UFOlogists, however, conclude that such evidence is not corroborative and that cases are reasonably explained by conventional scenarios rooted in psychological and fraudulent backgrounds, with no extraordinary evidence presented. The abductees' descriptions of the experience as 'mystical' suggest a subjective origin rather than a 'real world' event.

The researchers also identified 'eras' within abduction data, correlating them with stimuli. These include 1967-69 (influenced by the Betty and Barney Hill case), the early-mid seventies (marked by the Pascagoula, Mississippi incident), late seventies-1982 (reinforcing the template), and 1983-87 (a period of waning but followed by a resurgence). The authors' assessment suggests the abduction syndrome is psychological in nature.

UFOlogy in the United Kingdom

Comparing the UK's UFOlogy with that of the USA, the article notes a similar pattern, though perhaps more restrained. The period saw a rise in tabloid journalism's handling of UFOs, with BUFORA receiving a significant increase in press cuttings. The 'Sunday Sport' is highlighted for its sensationalist UFO tales, which, while wild, also represented a new realization that UFOs could 'sell copy.' The author recounts a personal experience of being interviewed by the 'Sunday Sport,' where his comments were distorted to promote sensationalist angles.

Television also played a role, with major current affairs series tackling the UFO issue, though often avoiding serious investigation. A Channel 4 Halloween documentary in 1987 is criticized for its 'objective' portrayal of the Rendlesham Forest incident by omitting witnesses and investigators.

Books and the MJ-12 Documents

Early 1987 saw a surge of attention for the UFO subject, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of the modern UFO era. Four major books were released, including Whitley Strieber's "Communion" and Tim Good's "Above Top Secret." The latter, a comprehensive work on government cover-ups, gained popularity partly due to its release during the 'Spycatcher' scandal. However, both books faced obstacles in Britain, including a natural tendency towards conservatism and skepticism. The Aetherius Society's media campaign is noted for its impact on the reception of these books, with Strieber reportedly criticizing the British media for treating his experiences with scorn.

The article then focuses on the controversial MJ-12 documents, which purportedly reveal a secret committee of experts recruited by the President to study crashed spaceships and aliens. Tim Good released information on MJ-12, reportedly without William Moore's knowledge. These documents, dated to late 1952, include a warning about their TOP SECRET-EYES ONLY status and list MJ-12 personnel, including figures like Admiral's, CIA chiefs, and scientists, notably Dr. Donald Menzel, a known UFO skeptic. The documents briefly discuss the Roswell crash of 1947 and the capture of four alien beings, code-named EBE. The author expresses suspicion that these documents may be disinformation intended to discredit serious UFOlogy, citing their sudden withdrawal after inquiries were made. The potential for such documents to be planted in archives is also discussed.

Tim Good's book was criticized, though this paradoxically helped sales. Adrian Berry, a science correspondent, described the book as 'evil' and its author as a 'maniac.' Whitley Strieber also felt mistreated by the British press.

Government and UFO Investigations

In contrast to previous periods, the British Ministry of Defence (MoD) became more liberal, responding to requests from active UFO workers and even directing some witnesses to BUFORA for investigation. The MoD shared incoming UFO reports with various establishments, including the DSTI, for review of potential military advances and recovered space hardware. UFOlogists also found it easier to obtain public records detailing early UFO cases due to the relaxation of the 'thirty year rule.'

Internal governmental discussions are illustrated by answers to questions in the House of Commons. Major Patrick Wall, a retired NATO defence committee member and active UFOlogist, is mentioned as a regular quizmaster. One case from April 29, 1957, involving Javelin aircraft sent after unidentified radar targets over Hampshire, is discussed. Documents suggest the targets were unidentified foreign aircraft, not necessarily a UFO, and that the 'cover-up' narrative was a misinterpretation.

A more significant case from April 4, 1957, involved radar tracking of UFOs, initially attributed to a weather balloon, though an Air Ministry official stated, "I have been ordered by the Air Ministry to say nothing about this object." Released papers clarify that multiple radar stations tracked a stationary object at 50,000 feet, which rose to 70,000 feet and moved at 70 mph. It then made a sharp turn southeast, increasing speed to 240 mph. Four blips, described as strong reflectors with apparent ship-like size, were observed. Weather balloons and ionized clouds were rejected as explanations. The speeds and sharp directional changes, especially against the wind, were considered crucial. The file concluded that the incident involved five reflecting objects of unidentifiable type and origin, unlikely to be conventional aircraft or meteorological balloons.

United States UFOlogy

In November 1986, Jerome Clark, editor of the International UFO Reporter, expressed optimism about significant UFO revelations in the coming year, citing manuscripts from Whitley Strieber and Budd Hopkins. Intelligence officer 'deep throat' sources promised major revelations. This period also coincided with the offer of top-secret documents about a US government cover-up, including a reputed autopsy report on an MJ-12 alien.

The Whitley Strieber book "Communion" became a bestseller, detailing his abduction experiences. It was followed by "Transformation." Budd Hopkins' "Intruders" offered a detailed account of an investigation into a family's repeated strange experiences. The chief witness of an ongoing abduction presented at a MUFON conference in Washington DC in June 1987. The attention generated by these books led to disagreements between their authors, with Hopkins maintaining that evidence pointed to aliens performing genetic experiments on humans, specifically abducting young women for impregnation and fetal harvesting.

By the time of the Washington DC conference, the UFO subject was front-page news in the USA, with less skepticism than in Britain. Sceptical UFOlogists like Jerome Clark began writing about the 'fall and rise' of the extraterrestrial hypothesis, and scientists spoke about abductions proving alien reality. However, Strieber began to distance himself from the UFO movement, advising abductees to seek psychiatric help rather than consult UFOlogists. He claimed sincerity, backed by lie detector tests.

Jerome Clark reported rumors of an imminent 'Announcement' of significant revelations from highly placed sources, possibly over network television, regarding what the US government knows about UFOs. William Moore, an investigator of the Roswell crash and co-author of "The Philadelphia Experiment," announced a cooperative relationship with contacts within the American intelligence community, suggesting that information was being made available.

Moore published information related to MJ-12, the team of experts recruited by the President to study crashed spaceships and aliens. Tim Good also released MJ-12 information, which Moore then felt compelled to release fully. The MJ-12 documents comprise a briefing file for President-Elect Eisenhower, warning of their top-secret nature and listing personnel. The documents briefly discuss the Roswell crash and the capture of four alien beings. The author expresses concern that these documents might be disinformation, designed to undermine serious UFOlogy. The MJ-12 material also included an order for the group's setup signed by Harry Truman and a memo from Robert Cutler. However, extensive searches of the National Archives failed to produce further evidence of MJ-12's existence, leading to speculation that the documents could have been fabricated.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent nature of UFO sightings and encounters across different countries, the growing public and media interest in UFO phenomena (particularly abductions), and the ongoing debate surrounding government secrecy and the authenticity of evidence, such as the MJ-12 documents. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, presenting various perspectives and incidents while also raising questions about potential disinformation and the psychological aspects of UFO experiences. The publication seems to advocate for a thorough, albeit cautious, investigation into the UFO phenomenon, acknowledging both the compelling nature of some reports and the need for rigorous evidence.

This issue of Bufora, published by the National Investigations Committee, focuses heavily on UFO sighting reports from 1987, alongside a significant discussion of the MJ-12 controversy and the unfolding Gulf Breeze case. The magazine presents a collection of detailed incident reports from various international locations, aiming to document and analyze unexplained aerial phenomena.

The MJ-12 Controversy

The MJ-12 debate is presented as a major public outcry, with skeptics and UFOlogists clashing over the authenticity of the documents. The article highlights the claims of researchers like William Moore, Jaime Shandera, and Stanton Friedman, who were involved in verifying the files. Critics, such as Barry Greenwood and Larry Fawcett of CAUS, dismissed MJ-12 as a "grand deception." The text notes that in the summer of 1989, William Moore admitted to acting as an intelligence community 'plant,' feeding out false data, which cast further doubt on the MJ-12 evidence and suggested it might have been disinformation designed to discredit UFOlogy.

The Gulf Breeze Case

The Gulf Breeze, Florida, case is described as a sensation that broke while the MJ-12 debate was ongoing. A local man claimed encounters with aliens and provided numerous photographs of UFOs. This case garnered significant media attention and was endorsed by MUFON, though later challenged by the Center for UFO studies, who labeled it a probable hoax. The article details the extensive analysis undertaken, including stereo camera photography, which made the case appear more impressive. However, it also notes the controversy and the division it caused within the UFO community, with some suggesting it was a deliberate attempt to mislead.

Sighting Reports from 1987

The magazine dedicates a significant portion to detailed reports of UFO sightings from around the globe during 1987:

• Sweden (April 17, 1987): Two families in Soderbarke witnessed a UFO described as 'like two plates put together,' with a dark top and glowing orange lower half, exhibiting peculiar mist and vertical lines, which moved silently across a lake.
• Wales (April 29, 1987): A mother and child in Swansea saw a large grey oval mass with light around the rim hovering low over their garden, which then blinked out.
• Canada (May 16, 1987): A pilot and radar operator on a Canadian Airlines Boeing 737 detected a very large object, estimated to be the size of an aircraft carrier, moving at an extraordinary speed of 5000 mph over Thunder Bay, Ontario.
• Australia (June 16, 1987): An ambulance crew in Lawrenny, Tasmania, experienced a power failure and then saw an oval, dark yellow object with bluish lights sitting on a hill, which illuminated the slope beneath before disappearing.
• Italy (August 6, 1987): Three young men near Barcis, Pordenone, were surrounded by a red beam of light from a lens-shaped object hovering above them, after which they found themselves inexplicably 25 miles away.
• France (September 7, 1987): A 10-year-old boy in Nort-sur-Erdre, near Nantes, recorded a 'bip-bip' noise and saw an orange oval shape with yellowish dots moving slowly above trees. This case was suggested to be a combination of natural phenomena.
• England (September 22, 1987): A family and friend in Abbots Bromley witnessed a triangular object with rounded corners and multiple colored lights that moved at tremendous speed and hovered silently over the road.
• USA (November 11, 1987): The Gulf Breeze, Florida, case is summarized as an extraordinary epic involving dozens of events, splitting American UFOlogy and considered a potential significant shift in the phenomenon.
• USA (November 11, 1987): The 'Mr Ed' case from Gulf Breeze involved a witness who took photos of a lampshade-like UFO and reported alien encounters, including a confrontation with a four-foot-tall alien. This case is noted for its similarities to the Strieber abduction experience.
• England (December 1, 1987): A case on Ilkley Moor is highlighted for its disturbing parallels to the Gulf Breeze case, occurring concurrently and raising questions about the phenomenon's nature and potential manipulation.

Analysis of UFOlogy in 1987-1988

The magazine reflects on the state of UFOlogy during 1987 and 1988, noting that 1987 was a good year for sightings, partly due to increased media publicity which encouraged witnesses to report their experiences. It is observed that while there was an increase in reported activity, there was not a corresponding surge in abduction cases. The article also touches upon the re-evaluation of older cases, such as the Alan Godfrey sighting, and the emergence of new explanations for UFO sightings, like high-powered lasers reflecting off clouds.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the ongoing debate about the credibility of UFO evidence, the potential for disinformation within the UFO community, and the reporting of a wide array of unexplained aerial phenomena from across the globe. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious investigation, presenting evidence and witness accounts while acknowledging the controversies and the need for critical analysis. The magazine highlights the challenges faced by UFOlogy in maintaining credibility amidst sensationalism and potential manipulation, emphasizing the need for a thorough and rational approach to understanding these events.

Title: Bufora
Publisher: National Investigations Committee
Issue: 50
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Case Reports

Ilkley, United Kingdom

The issue begins with the case of a young man of high social repute, an ex-police officer, who was walking on the moors near Ilkley. He reported seeing a strange greenish figure about four feet tall and took a photograph before it disappeared. He then witnessed a disc-like UFO climbing into the sky. The witness experienced a time lapse of over an hour and found his compass was magnetized, pointing south instead of north. Investigations by Peter Hough of MUFORA, including analysis of the photograph by three experts, confirmed its genuineness but could not definitively identify the figure. Laboratory experiments showed that compass polarity reversal was easily achievable. The witness also claimed to have been visited by two strange men who knew about his photographs. Hypnosis later suggested an 'on board' examination memory occurred before the photograph was taken, but the sudden jump between pitch darkness and daylight remained unexplained.

Launceston, Tasmania, Australia

On December 14, 1987, a car dealer driving near Launceston witnessed an object like an egg or oval, about 15 feet in diameter and grey, with intense bright lights on its underside. The object caused his car lights and engine to fail. He saw the stalled car 'dragged' along the road some 30 feet towards the UFO, leaving rubber tread and scuff marks. A Landcruiser truck continued to operate, though its lights went out. The UFO then shot off with a 'whirring' noise. Bitumen from the road surface had melted onto the car dealer's vehicle, which later suffered electrical problems. Investigators failed to locate the precise spot due to road repairs.

Sater, Dalecarlia, Sweden

Between 01.00 and 03.00 on December 31, 1987, a family's cat and dog were restless. Mrs. B, a retired nurse, saw a strange ice blue globe of light, about 20 ft in diameter, hovering above treetops, surrounded by a greyish-orange mist. 'Lightning flashes' shot from its underside. Mrs. B experienced paralysis, her jaw locked, and felt her mind was being 'absorbed'. Inside, Mr. B heard a faint humming. The event ended after five minutes with the UFO vanishing, and Mrs. B felt a sharp 'pin prick' in her back. Both animals and people smelt of sulpher. The next day, a streaky burn was found on Mrs. B's jumper, analyzed as being caused by a powerful jolt of static electricity. The area is noted for geological interest.

Mundrabilla, Western Australia

On January 20, 1988, a Ford sedan containing the Knowles family was driving between Perth and Adelaide when they saw a light approaching, which vanished and reappeared. They accelerated, but the light was suddenly ahead of them. During a 'cat-and-mouse' game, they did a 'U' turn and travelled in the wrong direction. They heard humming, felt shaken and lifted off the road, experienced an awful smell, and a greyish mist entered the car. A tyre burst, and they stopped. They found four shallow 'dents' in the car's roof and the car was covered in a fine grey ash that smelt like bakelite. Independent analysis by AMDEL suggested the dust came from 'wearing brake pads and discs', though other analyses were quoted in the press as implying strangeness. Dr. Richard Haines noted that without local Australian terrain control samples, definitive conclusions were difficult.

Godmanchester, England

On March 2, 1988, a 14-year-old girl in East Anglia reported a bizarre object approaching from the east. It was jet black, square, with perforations and an 'aerial', and only a few feet in diameter. A loud, grinding vibration was heard. The object caused a radio to blank out and produced a terrible odour. The girl experienced panic hysteria, blurred vision, and enlarged pupils, and refused to go out at night. The family spoke to the press, but the story was dismissed. The investigator noted that the ridicule exacerbated a long-standing problem for the girl, and she had a terrifying close encounter.

Chipinge, Zimbabwe, Africa

This case, dated April 1, 1988, is described as an extraordinary potential abduction. The witness is a 21-year-old woman with no prior interest in UFOs. While in bed, she experienced a strange sensation and a blue light. The UFO was described as tilted, mustard in colour, with windows, and illuminated the sky with an unusual blue glow. She felt 'cut off' and 'floating' up into the UFO. A time lapse occurred, and she found herself back on the bed, feeling drained. The peculiar silence persisted. The house lights went out, and then came back on as the glow vanished.

Little Hayward, England

On August 4, 1988, a middle-aged couple in the Cannock Chase area witnessed an object over hedges, described as a gaseous cloud that was 'contained' and pulsated with a red glow. The shock may have contributed to their statements about a 'strange feeling' and 'unusual quiet'. The object climbed upwards and vanished, reappearing over a river. The next day, the bush where the object had hovered was found stripped bare and crushed. Local universities refused to offer help, delaying the investigation.

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, USA

On December 4, 1988, a police officer driving to work encountered a bright silver object, about 75 feet long, atop power lines. The illumination caused him to swerve. The object moved from side to side, then up and down, before accelerating upwards. It left a silvery trail and emitted a humming noise. Inside the police car, a 'bluish mist' appeared, and the paint took on an unusual dullness. Dust particles were left on the side. Analysis showed Potassium Chloride, similar to findings in the Mundrabilla case. The witness felt radiating warmth, a tingling/electric shock sensation, and suffered a headache, dizziness, and blurred vision. The investigator noted marks on the officer's face and ears consistent with the glare. Another man in a car nearby was also shaken and dazed, and his car smelt of sulpher.

Publications Section

The magazine also includes a section on "PUBLICATIONS" which lists books and articles related to UFOlogy published in 1987 and 1988. These include:

American Books:

• "Communion: A true story" by Whitley Strieber, described as a real-life abduction memory and a major UFO best-seller.
• "Intruders" by Budd Hopkins, detailing an abduction case involving a family.
• "Light Years" by Gary Kinder, an attempt to probe a Swiss contactee.
• "MUFON 1987 Conference" (Ed Walt Andrus), a compilation of lectures.
• "Night Siege" by Allen Hynek, Phil Imbrogno, and Bob Pratt, discussing 'V' formation lights.
• "A Dangerous Game" by Philip Klass, a critique of abduction claims.
• "Dimensions" by Jacques Vallee, a reprint with new comments on abduction waves.
• "Uninvited Guests" by Richard Hall, a collection of case histories.
• "MUFON 1988 Conference" (Ed Walt Andrus), reflecting incidents of mid-1988.

British Books:

• "Modern Mysteries of Britain" by Janet & Colin Bord, collecting anecdotes from British folklore.
• "Sixth Sense" by Jenny Randles, exploring human senses and altered states of consciousness.
• "The UFO Conspiracy" by Jenny Randles, reviewing UFO history and governmental interest.
• "UFOs: 1947-1987" by Ed Hilary Evans & John Spencer, a global overview of UFO cases.
• "Above Top Secret" by Timothy Good, a collection of documents on the UFO cover-up.
• "Fatima" by David Barclay, proposing a UFO thesis for the 1917 'miracle'.
• "Phantom Aerial Flaps" by Nigel Watson, summarizing waves of 'pre UFOs'.
• "Abduction" by Jenny Randles, a global review of abduction experiences.
• "Phenomenon" by Ed Evans & Spencer, aimed at the general public.
• "Death by supernatural causes?" by Jenny Randles & Peter Hough, examining cases of mysterious deaths.
• "Gods-Spirits-Cosmic Guardians" by Hilary Evans, exploring contact with intelligences.
• "The Eye of Fire" by Graham Phillips & Martin Keataan, a tale of battles against evil powers.

Major Magazine Articles

The issue also lists major magazine articles from various publications:

Sightings:

• "The JAL Case" (Bruce Maccabbee) in IUR, March 1987.
• "Kenneth Arnold Revisited" (Greg Long) in MUFON J, June 1987.
• "Helicopters, UFOs & The psyche" (Dennis Stillings) in MUFON J, July 1987.
• "Burned by a UFO?" (Chris Rutkowski) in IUR, November 1987.
• "Clicknology" (Philip Mantle & IUR) in BRIGANTIA, January 1988, detailing a photo hoax.
• "UFO Crashes" (Jerome Clark) in FATE, January 1988, and subsequent issues.
• "The perfect abduction?" (Jenny Randles/Peter Hough) in NUN, May 1988, reviewing the Ilkley Moor case.
• "John Lennons close encounter" (Harold Salkin) in UNIVERSE, July 1988.
• "Shirley MaClaine and UFOS" (Antonio Huneeus) in UNIVERSE, September 1988.
• "Gordon Cooper's close encounter" (Timothy Green Beckley) in BRIGANTIA, November 1988.
• "Mystery of the Silpho Saucer" (Jenny Randles) in BRIGANTIA, November 1988.

Personalities:

• "On the road with visitors" (Whitley Strieber) in IUR, January 1987.
• "Light Years" (Gary Kinder) in MUFON, April 1987.
• "Talking Communion" (Mike Vootten/Whitley Strieber) in BUFORA, July 1987.
• "Conversation with Budd Hopkins" (Jerome Clark/Budd Hopkins) in IUR, November 1988.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Bufora are UFO sightings, alleged alien encounters, abductions, and the investigation of these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into UFO reports, presenting detailed case studies and analyses. The inclusion of a comprehensive publications section and a list of major magazine articles suggests an effort to cover the breadth of UFOlogy and related literature. The magazine seems to focus on presenting evidence, witness testimony, and investigative findings, often concluding that cases are unexplained or possibly related to unusual atmospheric phenomena, while also acknowledging the potential for exaggeration and misinterpretation in media reports. The overall tone is one of documenting and exploring the UFO phenomenon with a degree of critical analysis.

Title: Bufora
Publisher: National Investigations Committee
Issue: 51
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Research Articles

This section of Bufora issue 51 presents a series of research articles and reviews from various UFO organizations and publications.

• "UFO radio interference" by James McCampbell (MUFON, Mar 87) examines tests to discover magnetic field strength involved in car-stop cases.
• "Abductions in life and lore" by Eddie Bullard (IUR, Jun 87) is a folklorist's review of his extensive research survey into hundreds of abduction cases.
• "The vehicle interference effect" by Joe Kirk Thomas (MUFON, Sep 87) details laboratory experiments attempting to find the physics behind electromagnetic radiation.
• "Transvection and UFOlogy" by Manfred Cassirer (MAGONIA, Jan 88) draws comparisons between folklore/witchcraft 'flying' phenomena and OBEs with abductions.
• "Abduction special" (Bullard/Hopkins/Jacobs/Moravec/Randles) (MUFON, Feb 88) is a series of articles reviewing the state of abduction research in Australia, Britain, and the USA.
• "Abduction states of consciousness" by Robert Bartholomew & Keith Basterfield (IUR, Mar 88) investigates whether abductees in altered states of consciousness experience psychological phenomena.
• "Great balls of fire" by Paul Davies (MUFON, Apr 88) is an update from a physicist on the latest research knowledge regarding ball lightning.
• "Mystery circles: Myth in the making" by Paul Fuller (IUR, May 88) explores the sociological and physical results of probes into English crop circles.
• "The fantasy prone personality hypothesis" by Bartholomew & Basterfield (IUR, May 88) suggests that research into fpp reveals surprising clues about the psychology of abductees.
• "Mirages explain UFO reports" by Steuart Campbell (BUFORA, May 88) attempts to show that UFO cases can be explained as optical mirages of stars.
• "Foo Fighters: The story so far" by Andy Roberts (Jul 88) provides historical research revealing the genesis of the 'Foo Fighter' UFOs of World War Two.
• "Extraordinary encounter continuum hypothesis" by Peter Rojcewicz (MUFON, Jul 88) attempts to link abductions with out-of-body experiences and near-death experiences.
• "Neuropsychological aspects of the visitor experience" by Michael Persinger (Nov 88) researches why abductions could be physically triggered hallucinations.

The Cover Up

This section focuses on alleged government secrecy and disinformation related to UFO phenomena.

• "The cover-up in England (disinformation)" by Jenny Randles (IUR, Sep 87) provides the full story of how Jenny Randles and Peter Hough were offered secret MJ-12 style papers.
• "MJ-12: The evidence so far" by Stanton Friedman (Apr 88) offers a detailed review of everything known about the puzzling MJ-12 documents.
• "Majestical mystery tour" by Ralph Noyes (Apr 88), a former MOD under-secretary and UFOlogist, gives an inside view of the MJ-12 affair.

Details on where to obtain these magazines are listed on page 52.

Organizations and Contact Information

The second page provides an extensive list of addresses for UFO research organizations worldwide, categorized by country and region:

• Africa: UFO Afrinews
• Australia: ACUFOS, UFORA
• Belgium: SVLT
• Canada: UFORIC
• Denmark: UFO-NYT
• France: Ovni Présence, Project Becassine
• Italy: CISU
• Spain: CEI
• Sweden: AFU, Hessdalen/Dalecarlia
• U.K.: UFO Brigantia, Fortean Times, LUFOIC, Magonia, Northern UFO News, NUFORC, SPI, TORRO
• U.S.A.: CAUS, CUFOS (IUR), Fate, Focus, MUFON, PASU, UFO Universe

It also includes contact information for BUFORA, the British UFO Research Association, detailing its formation in 1962, its purpose to investigate UFO phenomena, and how to apply for membership. A "British Telecom UFO CALL" service for the latest news on UFOs is also advertised.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, abduction experiences, and the alleged cover-up of UFO information by governments, particularly highlighted by the MJ-12 documents. The editorial stance, as clarified by BUFORA, is that the publication's comments stem from the author, Jenny Randles, and reflect the views of various credited UFOlogists, with BUFORA itself having no fixed opinions on the UFO subject. The emphasis is on investigation and research, making data available to scientific institutes and media.