UFO Times Number 11, January 1991

This issue of UFO Times, published in January 1991 by the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA), serves as a comprehensive overview of the state of ufology in the United Kingdom at the turn of the decade. The magazine features a mix of case studies, editorial commentary, and reports on the organization's internal activities. A central theme throughout the issue is the tension between traditional ufological research and the emerging interest in crop circles, as well as the debate over whether abduction phenomena are extraterrestrial or psychological in nature. The editorial, titled 'The Gagging of Ufology,' expresses concern over the increasing litigiousness within the field, which the author argues diverts resources from legitimate research. The issue highlights four specific case studies of 'alien contact' investigated by Clive Potter, Philip Mantle, and Andy Walmsley, involving individuals who claim to have received information regarding future global changes. These cases are analyzed with commentary from Dr. John Shaw, who suggests that the witnesses are 'sensitive' individuals reacting to global environmental concerns. A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the 'Phantoms of the Sky' conference, where Jenny Randles and Paul Devereux discuss the need to redefine ufology. Randles advocates for a shift away from the 'alien spaceship' hypothesis, suggesting that many phenomena are better understood through geophysical science, psychology, and meteorology. Devereux, while agreeing on the importance of scientific rigor, emphasizes the 'intelligence' displayed by earthlights and the complexity of nature. The magazine also provides updates on the National Investigations Committee (NIC), including plans to computerize case files and the challenges posed by misidentifications of laser disco lights and experimental balloons. John Spencer provides a detailed review of the Gulf Breeze UFO case in the United States, expressing skepticism regarding the photographic evidence while acknowledging the sincerity of the witness, Ed Walters. The issue concludes with a poem by Elsie Oakensen, reflecting on her own abduction experience, and provides a list of accredited investigators and upcoming events, including the 'Congress '91' conference in Sheffield. Overall, the document reflects a period of transition for BUFORA, as it attempts to maintain scientific credibility while navigating the complexities of public interest, media influence, and the evolving nature of UFO reports.