Merseyside UFO Bulletin - Vol 1 No 2 - 1968

Magazine Overview

Title: MERSEYSIDE UFO Bulletin
Issue: Volume 1, Number 2
Date: March - April 1968
Publisher: Merseyside UFO Bulletin
Editors: John Harney (Editor), Alan W. Sharp (Science Editor)

This issue of the Merseyside UFO Bulletin provides a mix of editorial commentary, in-depth research articles, and a glossary of UFO terminology, reflecting the serious study of the phenomenon.

Editorial: Flying Saucer Documentary

The editorial, written by John Harney, expresses satisfaction with Dr. Stephen Black's BBC television program, "Flying Saucers and the people who see them." Harney contrasts this documentary favorably with typical media portrayals of UFOs, which he criticizes for relying on stale jokes and comments from uninformed popular science pundits. He commends Dr. Black for interviewing actual UFO witnesses and scientists knowledgeable about the subject, a course of action he finds obvious but seemingly overlooked by previous program compilers. The editorial notes that Dr. Black's program offered a fair picture and constructive suggestions for further research into the psychological aspects of UFOs, with plans to publish further comments in the next issue.

The Large Scale Study of UFO Reports

Authored by Bernard Wignall, this article delves into the methodologies of studying UFO phenomena. Wignall outlines two primary approaches: the detailed investigation of individual reports and the large-scale study of the entire body of UFO reports. The latter method, which is the focus of the article, relies heavily on statistics. Wignall stresses the importance of statistical significance in interpreting correlations and the need to find patterns characteristic of the phenomenon for predictive purposes, thereby applying scientific methodology to a field often characterized by conflicting opinions. He describes two ways of finding patterns: deduction from a hypothesis and observation of patterns in existing data. The article highlights the vast number of UFO reports available globally, estimated in the tens of thousands, and notes that a recent U.S. Gallup poll suggested over 5 million Americans had seen a UFO. Wignall points out that most reports have mundane explanations, but even these are useful for understanding reporting processes and calibrating findings. He emphasizes the necessity of using electronic computers and data handling techniques for managing large datasets. The article mentions Jacques Vallee's early work with a catalogue of over 3,000 reports and his findings on report frequency and potential correlations with Mars. It also references the Condon Committee's catalogue of over 7,000 sightings. A significant portion of the article is dedicated to a joint project by Cambridge University and Imperial College, which began the previous summer. This project aims to build a comprehensive file of worldwide reports using a specially developed computer language to process data efficiently. The article explains how computers can benefit research by performing numerous arithmetic operations and sorting data for specific queries, such as reports of red spheres over Liverpool in 1966. It also discusses the analysis of overall report frequency for regularities. The construction of the main data bank is presented as a powerful research tool, made available through IBM's generosity.

Computing Service

This section offers a free computing service for UFO research proposals, managed by B.L. Wignall at Jesus College, Cambridge. While the computing time is free, a nominal charge for administration may apply. Researchers are encouraged to state their ideas precisely to aid programming.

UFO Terminology

This section begins a glossary of UFO terms and abbreviations, aimed at clarifying specialized language used by ufologists. The glossary is intended to provoke discussion and lead to the publication of agreed-upon terms and definitions for serious researchers. The first part covers terms from A to G:

• AFSCA (Amalgamated Flying Saucer Clubs of America): A contactee-oriented group founded by Gabriel Green.
• Agitated cumulus: A cumulus cloud type sometimes reported with hovering or slow-moving UFOs.
• Alien: A being from another planet.
• Alternate realities (AR theory): Ideas attempting to describe UFO phenomena as belonging to a different order of reality.
• Angel hair: A material resembling cobwebs or gossamer, said to be formed by UFOs, which disintegrates quickly. Hypotheses include spiders' webs or metastable chemical polymers.
• Antigravity: A hypothetical propulsion system for flight by manipulating gravity, often suggested for UFOs due to their reported maneuvers.
• APRO (Aerial Phenomena Research Organization): An established UFO organization in Tucson, Arizona.
• AR Theory: See "Alternate Realities."
• Associated phenomena: Unusual events or experiences linked to UFO activity, such as coincidences or unexplained noises.
• BAVIC: A line in France identified by Aime Michel, potentially significant for UFO sightings.
• Benderism: The act of ceasing UFO interest due to alleged threats or unexplained happenings, exemplified by Albert K. Bender's closure of the International Flying Saucer Bureau.
• Binding forces: In ufology, refers to forces holding matter together, with theories about "reduced binding" areas potentially linked to atomic explosions.
• BUFORA (British Unidentified Flying Object Research Association): A major UFO organization in Britain.
• Cigar: A UFO shape, see "Mother ship."
• Classic UFO sighting report: A well-known report, often referred to by its location or witness name (e.g., Socorro, Mantell).
• Condon Committee (or Colorado Project): A scientific group investigating UFOs, chaired by Dr. Edward U. Condon.
• Contactee: A person claiming to have contacted UFO intelligences, often conveying implausible stories with an edifying message.

Local UFO Reports

This section notes that no local reports were received since the last issue, but mentions a few from other parts of the country.

New UFO Magazine

An announcement about the launch of "UFO ANALYSIS REPORT" by the International UFO Bureau, edited by Robert A. Stiff, featuring UFO reports and illustrations. Subscription details are provided.

"SNIPPY"

This brief note mentions ongoing controversy over the Alamosa case, with articles appearing in various magazines.

Local Publicity

Details the editor's interview with Graham Jones of the Bebington News & Advertiser, resulting in an article titled "John, the Sceptical Saucer Spotter," which, despite its title, did not generate significant local interest. It also mentions a recorded interview with BBC Radio Merseyside that was not broadcast.

Merseyside UFO Bulletin Contact Information

Provides contact details for the Editor, John Harney, and Science Editor, Alan W. Sharp, along with telephone numbers. It clarifies that the Bulletin is published independently and is circulated for exchange and correspondence only, with no subscription. A note encourages readers to keep copies for reference, with plans for a Volume I index at the end of the year.

Letter to the Editor

Lionel E. Beer, Vice-Chairman of BUFORA, writes to John Harney regarding a previous letter and the Merseyside UFO Bulletin. Beer expresses disappointment that the publication might indulge in sensationalism and voice irresponsible comments about BUFORA. He specifically addresses a perceived misinterpretation of the reason for setting up a sub-committee and a suggestion that an expression used by John Cleary-Baker reflects a general attitude. Beer clarifies that BUFORA's administrative system is working smoothly and that they are tidying up the research side for a potential major project. He states that differences of opinion among officials do not indicate a dispute and that the association has a reputation for amicably settling internal dissension. Beer requests that his letter be published to set the record straight, emphasizing his personal preference for dealing in facts over opinions.

Editor's Comments: The editor acknowledges receiving other information regarding the disagreement in BUFORA, with some people confirming his previous assessment. He notes that improvements have been made, particularly on the research side, and agrees with Lionel Beer that BUFORA's administration is efficient.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Merseyside UFO Bulletin consistently adopts a serious and research-oriented stance towards UFO phenomena. The editorial emphasizes the importance of objective reporting and scientific investigation, distinguishing itself from sensationalist media portrayals. The inclusion of a detailed article on research methodologies and a comprehensive glossary of terms underscores a commitment to rigorous study. The publication also engages with organizational matters within the UFO community, as evidenced by the letter to the editor concerning BUFORA, indicating an interest in the practicalities and internal dynamics of UFO research groups. The overall tone suggests a desire to elevate the study of UFOs to a more credible and scientific level.