Lantern - No 21

Magazine Overview

Title: LANTERN
Issue: 21
Volume: Spring 1978
Date: March 1978
Publisher: Borderline Science Investigation Group (BSIG)
Country: UK
Language: English

This issue of LANTERN, number 21, published in Spring 1978, is dedicated to 'Aerial Phenomena' and UFOs. The editor, I. Bunn, notes that the magazine's duplicator has broken down, and this issue was printed by R. Harrod Ltd. A book 'bring and buy sale' is announced to help fund repairs. Bunn expresses concern that the publicity surrounding the film 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' might negatively impact UFO research by reinforcing outdated ideas and sensationalizing the topic.

Articles and Features

Introduction

The editor, I. Bunn, discusses the challenges of producing the magazine, including equipment failure, and thanks those who helped with printing. He also voices his reservations about the film 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind,' fearing its sensationalized publicity will set back the public's understanding of UFO phenomena.

Folklore and Bees

An article by R.A. Haxell explores the historical and folkloric significance of bees in rural communities. It details ancient Greek beliefs of bees as messengers of the gods, their connection to the human soul's journey, and the tradition of 'telling the Bees' about significant life events like deaths and weddings. The article also touches upon superstitions related to swarming bees and lone bees, and mentions the potential medicinal properties of the Queen bee's sting.

Definitions of UFOs

This section delves into the definition of UFOs and the public's perception of them. It contrasts the media's portrayal of UFOs as extraterrestrial visitors with more technical definitions provided by researchers like Dr. Edward Condon and Dr. J. Allen Hynek. Hynek's definition, emphasizing unidentified phenomena that defy conventional explanation, is presented as the preferred one, especially in light of the anticipated publicity from 'Close Encounters.'

Great Balls of Fire: Historical Sightings

This article recounts two similar astronomical curiosities reported in the Lowestoft Journal in 1890. The first, on March 15th, describes a sudden blaze of light identified as a splendid meteor. The second, on December 13th, details a magnificent meteor with distinct color hues that exploded, causing one observer to believe the moon had fallen.

Report 1: The Kessingland UFO

This report details a UFO experience from 1953, observed by a member of the Royal Observer Corps near Latimer Dam, Kessingland. The witness described seeing four rays of light approaching, accompanied by a low frequency hum or magnetic vibration. Accompanying sketches illustrate the UFO's appearance and the location of the sighting.

Report 2: Great Yarmouth Sighting

This report from 1954 describes an object seen over Great Yarmouth, Norfolk. Initially mistaken for a meteor jet, the object hovered, changed shape from a cigar to a disc, and was blue-grey in color. The witness noted its rapid movement and ability to travel against the wind.

Man Sees 'Ball of Flame'

This brief report from the 'Thetford & Watton Times' (November 25, 1977) describes Captain John Barlow witnessing a 'ball of flame' with a long tail of fire flying fast over Thetford. RAF personnel could not provide a definitive explanation, suggesting it might have been a jet fighter's afterburner.

Oddments from the Press

This section compiles brief mentions of UFO-related news and correspondence from various local East Anglian newspapers in late 1977 and early 1978, including articles from the 'Eastern Daily Press,' 'Cambridgeshire Evening News,' 'Waveney Clarion,' and 'Lowestoft Journal.'

Comment: Black Shuck and UFOs

This extensive section features a letter from J. B. Delair, who draws parallels between the 'Black Shuck' (a phantom black dog of East Anglian folklore) and UFO phenomena. Delair suggests that Black Shuck stories, which sometimes involve sulphur-like smells and mysterious footprints, share characteristics with UFO sightings, including sudden appearances and disappearances, and even alleged connections to terrestrial dogs. He proposes that UFOs, Black Shuck, and other mystery beings like Sasquatch might be different facets of a larger, interconnected phenomenon.

Book Reviews

• Two book reviews are included:
• 'HANDBOOK OF PSI DISCOVERIES' by S. Ostrander & L. Schroeder: Described as a comprehensive guide for amateur psi experimenters, covering a wide range of paranormal subjects.
• 'THE LEY HUNTER'S MANUAL; A Guide to Early Tracks' by Alfred Watkins: A reprint of a classic work on ley lines, praised for its insights into prehistoric trackways and its value for researchers interested in ancient sites.

Report 3: Unidentified Flying Object (Ministry of Defence Report)

This report details a UFO sighting from February 12, 1973, observed by a helicopter pilot. The witness provided precise details from a Ministry of Defence UFO report form, describing two flashing white lights and the object's movement and estimated altitude and distance.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, folklore, and the investigation of unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance, particularly from the editor I. Bunn, is one of cautious skepticism towards sensationalism, advocating for a more grounded and analytical approach to UFO research, while acknowledging the potential for deeper connections between seemingly disparate mysteries like folklore and UFOs, as highlighted by J.B. Delair's contribution. The magazine actively encourages reader contributions and participation in the BSIG's activities.