Merseyside UFO Bulletin - Vol 1 No 4 - 1968

Magazine Overview

This issue of the Merseyside UFO Bulletin, Volume 1, Number 4, dated July-August 1968, is edited by John Harney, with John A. Rimmer as Assistant Editor and Alan W. Sharp as Science Editor. The cover prominently features 'EXTRATERRESTRIAL LIFE' as the main headline, alongside a list of other articles.

Extraterrestrial Life by Alan W. Sharp

Alan W. Sharp's article explores the possibility of indigenous extraterrestrial life, starting with the premise of life as known on Earth. He suggests focusing on elements like carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen, and combinations thereof, rather than more exotic compounds. While acknowledging the temptation to speculate about life beyond the Solar System, he confines the discussion to premises that can be verified or disproven. Key requirements for life include the presence of oxygen and hydrogen in combination as liquid water, necessitating temperatures between 0 and 100 degrees Celsius. A suitable, dense atmosphere is also crucial for protection against energetic particles and extreme temperatures. The article discusses the atmospheres of various planets: Earth possesses a suitable atmosphere, while the Moon has virtually none. Mercury and Titan may have tenuous envelopes, Mars has some atmosphere but is cold and its color changes are not definitively linked to vegetation. Venus is too hot and dense at the surface for life, though speculation about atmospheric life is dismissed. Jupiter has a dense atmosphere of hydrogen, methane, and ammonia, with a surface temperature of -150 degrees Celsius. Saturn is similar to Jupiter. The distant planets are considered poor prospects for life. The article touches upon the spectroscopic identification of atmospheric constituents and the uncertainty surrounding the Cytherean atmosphere. It also discusses the Moon's surface features, volcanic activity, and impact craters, suggesting limited hope for life there due to potential subsurface water. The article concludes by noting that the Moon and Venus may have already been contaminated by Earth organisms, complicating the question of independent life.

Unknown Insects Invade Spanish Village

This report, based on articles in the Daily Telegraph, details a panic in Armental, Spain, caused by an invasion of millions of brown insects, approximately 1 inch high, with three pairs of legs, six-inch antennae, and a visible 'central nerve string.' These wingless insects attacked in 'ant-like groupings,' forcing two families to evacuate. The villagers suspected an extraterrestrial origin due to recent UFO sightings over a nearby reservoir. Agricultural experts and biologists were mystified, unable to identify the insects, though Dr. Perez of the Health Department stated they were not dangerous. The villagers' attempts to deter the insects with insecticides, salt, and boiling water were unsuccessful.

UFO Periodicals in British Libraries

This section provides a list of UFO periodicals held in British Public and Institutional libraries, including 'Flying Saucer News Bulletin,' 'Flying Saucer Review,' 'Flying Saucer News,' and 'Flying Saucer News (Yokohama).' It requests information from readers about other holdings, library details, and bibliographical information to be sent to John A. Rimmer.

Congressional Hearing on UFOs

Reporting from the New York Times, this section details a House Committee on Space and Astronautics hearing where six scientists advocated for serious UFO investigation and federal support. They complained that the subject had been 'laughed out of court.' Witnesses discussed the lack of quantitative data and the need for a mechanism to study UFOs with scientific respectability. Dr. J. Allen Hynek suggested an international clearing house, while Dr. Carl Sagan noted the possibility of advanced extraterrestrial civilizations visiting Earth but cautioned against a widespread search program due to cost and risk. Dr. James E. McDonald emphasized the potential importance of UFOs, particularly their reported interference with electrical systems. Other scientists and a representative from Indiana also spoke, with a study being conducted by scientists at the University of Colorado. Dr. Hynek proposed a system for studying UFO reports from credible individuals and a federally funded UFO scientific board.

BUFORA Conference at Bristol

This report covers the BUFORA Conference held on July 20th, 1968, in Bristol, hosted by the British Flying Saucer Bureau (BFSB). The conference aimed to address the physical aspects of the UFO problem. Captain E.L. Plunkett welcomed attendees, and Mr. Graham F.N. Knewstub stressed the focus on physical phenomena. Mr. Lionel Beer reported on the BUFORA National Skywatch, mentioning sightings and a photographed unidentified light. Two unusual incidents were reported: a 'black magic orgy' in Northamptonshire and experiences of difficulty breathing and cold air during a skywatch at Chanctonbury Ring, Worthing. The latter incident was attributed by some to young people engaging in UFO watching rather than scientific investigation. The report also mentions the BUFORA Research Vehicle and talks on UFO detectors, mathematical treatment of sighting data, and laser holography. The conference concluded with an open forum and was generally considered a success.

UFO Terminology

Allen H. Greenfield writes to address the use of terms like 'alternate realities' in UFO research, disagreeing with a correspondent who suggested they were unscientific. Greenfield argues that these terms are gaining public mention and that the reverse might be true – that 'alternate realities' are known to many researchers while the general ufology community may be less familiar.

SCEPTIC!

This section briefly mentions a new Canadian magazine, 'Phenomena,' and its contributor G.E. Lazenbee, who dismisses 'Saucer Folk' as 'Nuts!' A short anecdote illustrates the skepticism towards UFO evidence.

Book Reviews

Several books are reviewed:

• UNINVITED VISITORS: A Biologist Looks at UFOs by Ivan T. Sanderson: Described as fascinating, it draws parallels between the historical acceptance of meteorites and the potential future acceptance of flying saucers. The author's ideas are noted as speculative, and the book discusses mechanical and biological UFOs, 'teleportation,' 'invisibility,' and 'men in black.'
• FLYING SAUCERS HERE AND NOW by Frank Edwards: This book is similar to Edwards' previous work and discusses important sightings, U.S. Air Force reactions, and contactees. It critically examines Adamski's 'space man' and 'scout ship' photographs, suggesting the latter resembles a vacuum cleaner part.
• FLYING SAUCER REPORT: UFOS UNIDENTIFIED, UNDENIABLE by Roger H. Stanway and Anthony R. Pace: This privately published book details 70 UFO reports from the Staffordshire area and analyzes local information. The authors conclude that a prima facie case exists for immediate scientific investigation of the UFO phenomenon.
• HAS THE UFO INVASION STARTED? THE ALLENDE LETTERS by Brad Steiger and Joan Whritenour: An illustrated book covering bizarre aspects of the UFO mystery, including the Allende Letters, invisible entities, MIB, and the 1897 Airship. It notes that other writers confirm John Keel's findings.
• Other Books Noted: Brief mentions of 'Flying Saucers - Where do they come from?' (Tambling), 'The Flying Saucer Reader' (Edwards), 'The Terror Above Us' (Kent), and 'Why Are They Watching Us?' (Erskine).

Flying Saucer Report and UFO Manual

Information is provided on how to obtain Roger H. Stanway and Anthony R. Pace's book 'Flying Saucer Report' and details about their upcoming publication, 'Unidentified Flying Objects Manual for Investigators and Researchers.' Contributions for the manual are invited.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a strong interest in the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, with multiple articles and book reviews dedicated to the subject. There's a clear effort to present a rational, albeit sometimes speculative, approach to UFOs, contrasting with outright dismissal. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, acknowledging the need for serious study while also addressing skepticism. The recurring themes include the nature of extraterrestrial life, the analysis of UFO sightings and evidence, the role of scientific institutions, and the historical development of ufology. The publication also highlights the importance of accurate reporting and terminology within the field.

MUFOB 1, published in August 1968, is an issue of a bulletin that delves into UFO phenomena. The cover features a headline "UFO REPORTS AND IRISH FOLK-LORE" and suggests topics for investigation, including interviewing techniques, photographic analysis, and data evaluation.

UFO Reports and Irish Folk-Lore by John A. Rimmer

This article explores the potential connections between traditional Irish folklore and modern UFO reports. The author posits two main theories: either folk stories are accounts of early UFO encounters, or UFOs represent a modern manifestation of folklore originating from the subconscious. Ireland, with its strong living folk-lore, particularly stories of the "Sidhe" (a term for various strange beings), is presented as a key area for study. The author references folklorist D.A. Macmanus's book "The Middle Kingdom," noting that many reports of "little people" share a similar "style" to UFO contact reports, including an "indeterminate feeling of friendliness" and "semi-rational behaviour." Some extreme contact stories, involving invitations into "fairy forts" and descriptions of "other planets," are paralleled in folk tales.

Two specific incidents are highlighted: one from Macmanus's book describes a girl witnessing a fairy fort illuminated by hundreds of white lights that then rose up, kept formation, and sailed across the lough. Another incident at Warminster involved a farmer who built an extension across a fairy path, leading to a "battering" on his roof by fairies until the extension was removed.

The article argues that Ireland's unique cultural landscape, deeply intertwined with legend and myth, makes its society more receptive to a system of rural entities than a technologically-oriented society that might rationalize phenomena scientifically. Unlike other European countries, Ireland's inexplicable experiences might be attributed to these traditional entities rather than UFOs or space creatures. The author suggests that while the Church is strong in Ireland, it does not seem to strongly disapprove of the Sidhe, unlike in other places where religious disapproval might lead to alternative rationalizations.

Local UFO Reports

Crosby, Lancashire

A report from the Liverpool Daily Post on August 3rd, 1968, details a sighting by two youths, Tony Sutcliffe (17) and Brian Ormsby (18), on August 2nd. They observed a "large, glowing pure white" cigar-shaped object about 400 feet above them, moving downwards. They followed it for about fifteen minutes on a motorcycle from Little Crosby Road to Mariners Road, Blundellsands. The object moved slowly at first, then accelerated away without noise or a vapour trail, and was too low to be a satellite. Sutcliffe described it as bigger than any aircraft he had seen, with a glow that obscured a clear outline, though he thought he detected markings like windows. His friend did not notice these features.

Kirkdale, Liverpool

A report from the "All Your Own" column in the Liverpool Echo on August 24th, 1968, describes a sighting by children on June 27th. They reported a "silver in colour," round object spinning over Bousfield Street, Kirkdale, at 8:10 p.m. They stated it was not a plane or helicopter because it was too high and silent. It moved for about half a minute before disappearing behind a chimney. After telling their parents, who did not believe them, they went to the next street and saw the object near the sun, flashing before going out of sight.

Recommended UFO Magazines

This section provides reviews of three UFO magazines:

• Flying Saucer Review: Described as the world's best-known UFO periodical, it covers all aspects of the mystery, including technical articles, speculation, UFO reports, and investigations. It is considered essential reading for those seriously interested in the subject. The review lists its editor (Charles Bowen), assistant editor (Dan Lloyd), and numerous consultants with impressive credentials. Subscription details and editorial address are provided.
• Spacelink: Originally published by the Isle of Wight UFO Investigation Society, it is now an independent magazine featuring material on the British UFO Research Association. It is recommended for subscription. The review lists its editor (Edgar Hatvany), managing editor (Lionel Beer), and editorial consultants. Subscription details and editorial address are provided.
• Phenomenes Spatiaux: Published in Paris by GEPA, this magazine is noted for its highly-detailed reports of meticulous investigations into UFO sightings and incidents, as well as technical and speculative articles. It is highly recommended for ufologists who can read French. The review lists its editor (Rene Fouere) and editorial address.

Editorial: "The Dreaded MIB"

This editorial, continued from page 29, acknowledges that many UFO reports can be explained as hoaxes or delusions. However, it stresses that even if they are delusions, their implications are serious. The bulletin aims to take an objective look at the matter in a future issue and requests readers to share any unpublished incidents.

Merseyside UFO Bulletin

Details are provided for the Merseyside UFO Bulletin, a privately published periodical edited by John Harney, with John A. Rimmer as Assistant Editor and Alan W. Sharp as Science Editor. It has no formal connection with any UFO group and is circulated to exchange publications and correspondents only, with no subscription fee.

Late News Item (September 5th)

A report from the Daily Telegraph discusses the US Air Force's long-standing involvement in studying flying saucers. It mentions accusations of suppressed truth and the squandering of significant sums (estimated at £200 million since 1947) on investigations. The article notes the setup of "sky watch cameras" in the 1950s and the ongoing £250,000 investigation by Dr. Edward Condon and scientists at the University of Colorado. It also highlights the dismissal of two key members for allegedly taking a "pro-UFO" stand and the subsequent reduction of the Condon Committee to three members, only one of whom has scientific credentials.

Late News Item (September 6th)

This item from the Daily Express reports an "incredible UFO report" from Buenos Aires, Argentina. A flying saucer allegedly landed on a motorway, crashed into a car, and two "bald-headed dwarfs" emerged and were arrested by local air force authorities.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the intersection of folklore and UFO phenomena, the reporting of specific UFO sightings, and the promotion of UFO research through magazines and bulletins. The editorial stance appears to be one of objective inquiry, acknowledging the possibility of hoaxes and delusions while also recognizing the seriousness of the implications of such reports. The publication encourages reader participation and aims to provide a platform for sharing and analyzing UFO-related information.