Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena, Vol. 1 No. 1

This document is the inaugural issue of the 'Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena,' published in July-August 1979 by the Research Department of the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA). The journal was established to provide a platform for longer, in-depth research articles and case studies, aiming to elevate the standards of UFO research in Great Britain. The editorial by Anthony Pace emphasizes a shift toward a less emotive, more scientific terminology, suggesting the replacement of the term 'UFO' with 'Transient Aerial Phenomena' to avoid the baggage associated with popular ufology. The journal features several key articles: Charles Lockwood discusses the clarification of terminology and the need for a scientific framework; Peter A. Hill argues for the maturation of UFO research from a hobby to a scientific discipline, stressing the importance of data collection and statistical analysis; Robert Digby and Steve Gamble detail the creation of a Physical Data Section within BUFORA to handle physical evidence cases; and Dr. J. P. Kuettner provides insights into the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) UFO Sub-Committee's experiences. Additionally, the journal includes a summary of the French GEPAN (Unidentified Aerospace Phenomena Study Group) and a detailed report by Anthony Pace on the 1977 UFO events in Pembrokeshire, South West Wales, which included numerous reports of humanoid entities and physical traces. The journal also features an 'Atmospheric Phenomena Log' by John Armitage, which explores natural explanations for sightings, such as mirages. The overall tone of the journal is one of serious, skeptical, and methodical inquiry, seeking to bridge the gap between amateur research and the professional scientific community.