UFO Times Number 3, September 1989

UFO Times Number 3, published in September 1989 by the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA), serves as a comprehensive update on the state of UFO and UAP research in Britain. The issue highlights the organization's commitment to scientific rigor, particularly in response to the surge in media attention surrounding crop circles. Chairman Steve Gamble outlines the organization's future, including plans for a central headquarters, a library, and the pursuit of charitable status to ensure long-term financial stability. A significant portion of the publication is dedicated to the 5th London International UFO Congress, where speakers like Walt Andrus of MUFON presented on the Gulf Breeze case, which BUFORA researchers view with significant skepticism. The issue also features technical discussions on photographic analysis, with Nigel Smith detailing the challenges of evaluating photographic evidence and the high frequency of hoaxes or misidentified phenomena. Harry Harris provides a technical review of video footage from the M1 motorway, concluding that the objects were astronomical in nature. Dave Clarke continues his 'Project Pennine' series, exploring the relationship between geological faulting and luminous phenomena, suggesting that many reported sightings may be geophysical in origin rather than extraterrestrial. The publication also includes reviews of recent literature, such as Paul Devereux's 'Earthlights Revelation' and books on crop circles, reinforcing the association's stance against uncritical acceptance of 'nuts and bolts' extraterrestrial theories. The issue concludes with a 'Stop Press' report on a alleged RAF Tornado dogfight with a UFO over Blackpool, indicating that investigations are ongoing. Throughout the document, the editorial tone is one of professional skepticism, emphasizing the need for evidence-based research and the importance of maintaining credibility within the international scientific community.