BUFORA Bulletin No. 17, May 1985

This document is the May 1985 issue (No. 17) of the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA) Bulletin. It serves as a compilation of research, investigative reports, and theoretical discussions regarding Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP). A significant portion of the bulletin is dedicated to the 1978 disappearance of Australian pilot Frederick Valentich over Bass Strait, featuring a transcript of his final communications with Melbourne Flight Service. The bulletin also covers other Australian sightings, including the 'White Acres' physical trace case from 1980, and various reports from the UK, such as the 'Repeater Ball Lightning' case in Leicestershire and sightings in Harwich Harbour and Hatfield Peverel. The publication emphasizes the importance of scientific methodology in UFO research, advocating for the consideration of psychological, sociological, and religious factors that may influence witness reports. It includes reports from the National Investigators' Committee (NIC) meeting held in London in March 1985, detailing ongoing investigations into specific photographic evidence and the 'Anamnesis' project. The bulletin also provides a list of accredited BUFORA investigators and includes a 'Letters to the Editor' section where members discuss the nature of UFO sightings, including the possibility of misidentified natural phenomena like planets, stars, and weather balloons. The document reflects the association's commitment to collecting and disseminating evidence while maintaining a critical perspective on the 'UFO enigma'.