BUFORA Journal Vol 6 No 5 January/February 1978

This document is the January/February 1978 issue of the BUFORA Journal (Volume 6, Number 5), published by the British UFO Research Association. The journal serves as a central repository for UFO-related news, research, and sighting reports from the United Kingdom and internationally. The editorial by Norman Oliver reflects on the skepticism surrounding various UFO reports, contrasting cases that are accepted by researchers with those that are dismissed. The issue features a detailed analysis by Philip Taylor regarding the 'Trident Visual UFO' sighting from July 1976, suggesting it was likely a high-altitude research balloon launched from Sicily. Other sections include reports on new government-level UFO studies, specifically NASA's examination of records at the request of the White House and the creation of GEPAN in France. The journal provides extensive 'Sighting Summaries' for 1976 and 1977, documenting various objects, including cigar-shaped craft, discs, and lights, with associated investigators. A significant portion of the journal is dedicated to 'Report-Extra!', which details specific, often bizarre, humanoid encounter cases, such as the 'Sandown spaceman' incident and the experience of a farmer in Georgia. The journal also includes book reviews, such as Zecharias Sitchin's 'The Twelfth Planet' and Philip Klass's 'UFOs Explained', and announcements for upcoming conferences and lecture series. The publication emphasizes the need for scientific rigor in UFO research, while acknowledging the challenges posed by hoaxes and emotionalism. It concludes with administrative updates, including the resignation of the National Investigations Co-ordinator, Ken Phillips, and information on how members can contribute to ongoing research projects.