Bufora Journal Vol 6 No 1 May/June 1977

This document is the May/June 1977 issue (Volume 6, Number 1) of the Bufora Journal, published by the British UFO Research Association. The journal serves as a platform for reporting UFO sightings, discussing ufological research, and debating the scientific validity of the phenomenon. The editorial by Norman Oliver warns against the dangers of 'contactee' culture and the potential for UFO society leaders to become isolated if they claim alien guidance. The issue features a 'Presidential Profile' of C A E O'Brien, the new president of Bufora, who emphasizes the association's dual role in satisfying public interest and conducting rigorous scientific research. A significant portion of the journal is dedicated to the 'Controversy' section, where contributors debate the existence of extraterrestrial life, the possibility of interstellar travel, and the nature of ball lightning. Mark Stenhoff and Stuart Campbell engage in a technical discussion regarding the physics of ball lightning, challenging the 'plasma' hypothesis. The 'Points from the Press' section summarizes recent media coverage of UFOs, including Dr. J. Allen Hynek's visit to London and his efforts to re-open the Blue Book report. The 'Report-Extra' section provides detailed accounts of specific sightings, including a 'Mystery Helicopter' event in 1974 and various school-based sightings in Broad Haven, Herbrandston, and Rhos-y-bol. These reports often involve children and describe cigar-shaped objects and humanoid figures. The journal also includes a list of available lecture recordings, a book review of 'How to be Kidnapped by UFOlk' by Dan Clements, and a technical article by Lawrence W. Dale on the application of logic and the scientific method to UFO research. The issue concludes with a 'Sighting Summaries' table, documenting various incidents from 1948 to 1977, and a 'Personal Column' for advertisements and book sales.