AI Magazine Summary
UFO Nyt - No 6 nov-dec 1972
AI-Generated Summary
Title: ufo nyt Issue: 6 Volume: 14. årg. Date: November-December 1972 Publisher: S.U.F.O.I. (SKANDINAVISK UFO INFORMATION) Country: Denmark Language: Danish
Magazine Overview
Title: ufo nyt
Issue: 6
Volume: 14. årg.
Date: November-December 1972
Publisher: S.U.F.O.I. (SKANDINAVISK UFO INFORMATION)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
This issue of "ufo nyt" presents a deep dive into UFO phenomena, featuring detailed analyses of photographic evidence and a significant eyewitness account from Spain. The magazine serves as a publication for SKANDINAVISK UFO INFORMATION (SUFOI), an organization dedicated to spreading knowledge about unidentified flying objects.
SUFOI Organization and Information
The magazine begins by outlining the structure and purpose of SUFOI. It is a self-governing institution focused on educating the public about UFOs through various means, including publications, lectures, and public outreach. The organization is led by a board of directors and a representative council. Contact information for various roles within SUFOI, such as the chairman, treasurer, secretary, and representatives for different regions in Scandinavia and Norway, is provided. Subscription details for "UFO-NYT" are also included, with the 1973 subscription price set at D.kr. 35.00 for six issues, emphasizing the value of over 250 pages of content.
Article 1: The B-57 Photographs
This article, summarized by Janet Gregory from a report by Robert A. Schmidt, examines a series of photographs related to a Martin B-57 aircraft. The primary photograph (Fig. 1) was originally a promotional image taken in 1957-58 for the Martin Company. However, it captured an additional, unidentified flying object in the background. This photo was later included in a set of UFO photos sold by NICAP's New York division. A magnified version (Fig. 2) revealed the object to be streamlined with dark openings. Schmidt requested a larger print from Martin Company, which, upon examination, appeared to have been manipulated. The article details the investigation by photo experts who concluded that the object was not a flaw or a drop of liquid on the negative but something real that had been tampered with. The explanation provided by Martin Company—that it was a 'tear' or a 'drop'—was deemed unsatisfactory. The article suggests that the manipulation was an attempt to create a flaw effect, but the analysis of emulsion grain contradicted this, indicating that the object itself was real and had been altered on the print.
Article 2: Strange UFO in Spain
Authored by Casas Huguet, this article recounts a UFO sighting and potential landing in Matadepera, Barcelona, Spain, in late January 1969. The sole witness was an elderly woman, Mrs. Antonia Soler Rius, described as being in remarkably good health and spirits for her age. While gathering herbs near her home, she heard a noise resembling a fast-moving car. She then observed a 'strange flying object' moving upwards. The object made a sudden, precise maneuver to avoid a 5,000-volt high-voltage cable, diving sharply before continuing its ascent. The witness described the object as fish-like in shape, approximately 3 meters wide, 1.5 meters high, and 2.5 meters long. It was described as being 'painted' with lively yellow and green colors forming patterns, with a dark circle around it. The underside had a 'crown' or ring-like feature. The surface appeared smooth and uniform, with no visible windows or doors.
Following the sighting, SUFOI collaborator Joan Fonolleda Prat investigated the area. Approximately 30-40 meters from where the witness stood, unusual ground traces were discovered. These traces were described as 'swollen' and consisted of four parallel lines arranged in two groups, oriented northwest-southeast, matching the direction the object disappeared. The article includes detailed diagrams (Fig. 4) of the traces and a schematic cross-section, noting potential discrepancies in the measurements provided by the Spanish artist. The investigation team concluded that these traces were a tangible piece of evidence for a possible UFO landing, as conventional explanations could not account for them.
Other Content
The issue also includes a section inviting readers to submit their own definitions of what a UFO is, indicating a broad interest in defining the phenomenon. A notice about ordering UFO stickers for mailings is also present.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO evidence, particularly photographic anomalies, and the detailed reporting of specific sightings and potential physical traces. The editorial stance, as indicated by the disclaimer, is that articles published in "UFO-NYT" represent contributions to the understanding of UFO research, and SUFOI does not necessarily endorse the views expressed within them, nor does the organization assume liability for the opinions presented. The magazine aims to present factual accounts and encourage further investigation and discussion within the UFO community.
This issue of UFO-NYT, dated March 1972, focuses on the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena and presents a collection of recent sightings.
Article: "Et forslag til undersøgelse af 10 punkter" (A Proposal for Investigation of 10 Points) by Jacques Vallée
Jacques Vallée, a mathematician and astronomer with extensive research experience in satellite, microwave, and radar technology, presents an open letter to UFO researchers. He reflects on the 20 years since the first major series of UFO observations in Sweden in 1946, noting the continued confusion and the polarization between those who believe UFOs are conventional phenomena and those who attribute them to extraterrestrial intelligence. Vallée criticizes both extremes: the former for not representing observed facts, and the latter for being hasty, superficial answers that hide ignorance and fail to meet scientific criteria.
He argues for the necessity of science and highlights how amateur efforts have driven progress in fields like aviation, radio astronomy, and rocketry. Vallée believes UFO research is at a similar stage, where amateur contributions are significant, and it's time to integrate this work into mainstream science. He asserts that there is only one science, not a separate 'UFO science,' and it belongs to everyone. He criticizes the tendency of some UFO publications to view scientists as outsiders and to accuse them of ignorance.
Vallée has compiled a list of 10 points that he believes can be solved using existing scientific techniques, without requiring new methods or discoveries. These points are intended to guide research and move the field forward. He also mentions that the material collected by UFO researchers is often superior to what official bodies like observatories or air forces possess.
Article: "'UFO-eksperten' von Braun" ('UFO Expert' von Braun)
This section reports on statements made by Wernher von Braun, the American rocket specialist, during a visit to Brazil. Von Braun expressed his disbelief in flying saucers and little green men, calling them hallucinations but adding that science must remain open-minded. He cited a U.S. Air Force study indicating that only three percent of UFO observations were unexplainable. Regarding the possibility of extraterrestrial life, von Braun stated that statistically and theoretically, it is highly probable, given the vast number of planets. He argued it would be "frivolous" to think Earth is the only planet to harbor life.
The article also references the Condon Commission, led by Professor Edward U. Condon, which published its findings in January 1969. The magazine notes that the Condon Commission's report suggested that UFOs should be forgotten in favor of more useful scientific goals, though the report itself identified a significant percentage of 'unexplainable' cases.
Article: "og hvad skal man så tro?" (And what should one believe then?)
This section delves deeper into Wernher von Braun's views, contrasting his statements with the findings of the U.S. Air Force's Project Blue Book. The article points out discrepancies in the percentage of unexplainable cases cited by von Braun compared to official USAF data. It questions the source of von Braun's figures and suggests that his background in rocket construction does not lend itself to being a UFO specialist. The author speculates that von Braun might have been responding to a question at a press conference without deep knowledge of the subject, merely citing a number and a U.S. Air Force study.
The article also includes a quote from a previous UFO-NYT publication (issue nr. 30, July 26, 1969) where von Braun responded to a question about Professor Hermann Oberth's belief in flying saucers. Von Braun stated he had never seen a flying saucer nor any irrefutable proof of their existence, but he could not deny their existence either, saying he would admit it if one landed in Huntsville. He emphasized that he accepts only what is apparent.
Report Section: "Rapporthjørnet" (Report Corner)
This section compiles numerous eyewitness reports of UFO sightings from various locations in Denmark and Norway, primarily from 1972. The reports detail:
- November 6, 1971, Nyborg, Denmark: A balloon-like object, about 45 cm in diameter, was observed moving slowly and silently, stopping, and then ascending rapidly.
- March 4, 1972, Kronåsen, Norway: 8-10 red and yellow luminous objects, the size of pinheads, were seen moving towards Flesland airport.
- March 28, 1972, Denmark: Four white, clearly luminous objects flew in formation at an estimated speed of 100-150 km/h.
- April 1, 1972, Denmark: A red-brown object with a yellow-green corona moved at high speed to the northwest.
- June 21, 1972, Skagen, Denmark: Two sharply white-yellow objects, the size of a pea, were observed.
- July 31, 1972, Fredericia, Denmark: A red object, the size of a ten-øre coin, ascended steeply and disappeared into clouds.
- August 3, 1972, Fuglsangsskov, Denmark: A 20 cm object emitting light at regular intervals flew from west to east.
- August 10, 1972, Rungsted, Denmark: An orange object, the size of a pea, moved west-south-west and disappeared.
- August 11, 1972, Kongelunden, Denmark: Two yellow objects moved from south to north.
- August 11, 1972, Haslev, Denmark: A grey, oblong object was observed, moving with great speed and leaving a smoke trail.
- August 11, 1972, Roskildevej, Denmark: Three luminous objects were observed, one red, one yellow, and one with blinking yellow lights, moving slowly and interacting.
- August 11, 1972, Brønshøj, Denmark: Four objects, two white-yellow and two red, described as spherical and 10-20 meters in diameter, moved back and forth.
- August 12, 1972, Svendborg, Denmark: A red object, resembling a Christmas tree with colored light rays, was observed.
- August 12, 1972, Svendborg, Denmark: A luminous object with blue-green and red blinking lights was seen.
- August 18, 1972, Nesttun, Norway: An object with a strong red light, described as a lying 'U' with lights, moved horizontally at constant speed before disappearing abruptly.
- August 18, 1972, Kastrup, Denmark: Five yellow luminous objects flew at high speed from the northeast-southwest.
- August 20, 1972, Haslev, Denmark: Three star-like objects passed from northwest to southeast.
- August 21, 1972, Slagelse, Denmark: A light orange object moved from west to east, with a small, dark contour visible behind it.
- August 27, 1972, Bendstrup Camping, Denmark: A star-like luminous object flew from east to south.
- September 9, 1972, Esbjerg, Denmark: An orange object, strongly and constantly luminous, approached the observer's car before diving and flying very slowly near the ground.
- September 23, 1972, Landås, Norway: A silver, circular object was observed rotating and disappearing over a mountain ridge.
- September 28, 1972, Magleparken, Denmark: A luminous spot moved north in a wave-like pattern, changing color from white to red.
- October 1, 1972, Skagen, Denmark: An object described as sharp street light with a green halo was observed.
- October 9, 1972, Langeland, Denmark: An object, approximately 2-3 cm, standing at an angle, luminous like a star, disappeared rapidly.
- October 10, 1972, Vadum, Denmark: Two luminous objects were observed moving east, one oblong and horizontal, the other a luminous sphere.
- October 11, 1972, Skagen, Denmark: Three objects (red, yellow, and blinking yellow lights) were observed in the zenith, with limited movement, followed by signaling flashes.
Physical Trace Evidence Discussion
The magazine describes the discovery of narrow channels in the ground, similar to mole tunnels but much narrower. These channels were found to be parallel and oriented in a specific direction (NV-SI). The walls of these channels showed signs of being squeezed from the sides, leading to the hypothesis that a straight, hard object was forcefully pressed into the ground. Side-branches were also noted at regular intervals.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are the need for a scientific approach to UFO research, the presentation of numerous eyewitness accounts as data, and the critical examination of statements made by prominent figures like Wernher von Braun. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous, evidence-based investigation, encouraging amateur contributions while seeking eventual scientific recognition. The magazine acts as a platform for documenting and analyzing UFO phenomena, presenting a wide range of reported incidents.
Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 229-238
Date: September/October 1966 (with later articles referencing 1967 and 1968)
Publisher: Not specified
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
This issue of UFO-NYT delves into the complexities and challenges of UFO research, proposing a structured approach to understanding the phenomenon. It features a critical look at past research efforts, a detailed case study of a photographic sighting, and discussions on the methodologies and organizational aspects of UFO investigation.
Ten Fundamental Problems for UFO Research
The lead article outlines ten critical problems that must be addressed for future UFO research to be successful. The author argues that past failures are largely due to insufficient preparation and documentation. The ten tasks are:
1. Information-Investigation System: Develop a system for rapid and accurate registration of observation circumstances to facilitate statistical studies.
2. Archive Improvement: Discuss and improve existing archives and classification systems for faster processing of a large number of observations. The goal is to catalog around 3,000 American observations within two years for computer access.
3. List of Scientific Observations: Create a serious and exhaustive list of unusual atmospheric phenomena observations published by professional scientists in the 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries.
4. List of Other Observations: Compile a list of other observations (not from scientists) up to September 1939, presented without commentary except for bibliographic information, in chronological order.
5. 'Foo-Fighters' Data: Collect precise information on 'foo-fighters' observed over Germany and the Pacific during World War II by contacting war veterans.
6. Scandinavian Wave Documentation: Translate and reprint documents concerning the 1946 Scandinavian observation wave, which is not well-known, in strict chronological order.
7. Tracking Network: Establish a network of shortwave radio stations for quickly registering the trajectories of unusual objects. This network could also track meteors and satellites. It suggests constructing and experimenting with instruments to measure electromagnetic disturbances.
8. Reporting Procedure Evaluation: Critically assess report-taking procedures and questionnaires used in different countries, and train interviewers in the best methods for interviewing witnesses of unusual aerial phenomena.
9. Sociological Study: Conduct a serious investigation into sociological patterns related to the UFO phenomenon to assess the risk of public panic in the event of a large-scale UFO encounter.
10. Reorganize Local UFO Research: Reorganize UFO research at the local level in countries where it has stalled due to internal disputes. Create a worldwide list of responsible organizations and periodicals that have shown genuine scientific interest.
The author acknowledges that some of these problems have been partially addressed but emphasizes that none are fully solved. Tasks 1 and 2 are nearing completion, while 3, 4, and 6 require diligent bibliographic work. Tasks 1, 2, and 9 need organized teams with computer access, and task 8 requires access to official archives. Task 9, in particular, needs official support and funding. The author believes that tasks 5, 7, and 10 require organized, collective effort rather than individual action and present a challenge to existing UFO groups.
Critique of UFO Research and the Role of Organizations
The author expresses a strong critique of UFO researchers, stating they have been hindered from objective assessment by their own limited theories and lack of realism. They have often been distracted by unverified rumors and sensationalism instead of constructive analytical work. The author criticizes the tendency to substitute spiritual exercises for hard-earned facts and to rely on illusions rather than evidence. This has led to a lack of public interest and scientific engagement.
The article highlights the existence of an unexplained phenomenon and reiterates the need to solve the ten problems before a coherent theory can be presented. The key to understanding UFOs' nature and origin is not yet within reach, but solving these ten problems is crucial.
The Alberton Case: A Photographic Analysis
A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the analysis of a film taken by Ellis E. Mathews in Alberton, Australia, in May/June 1967. Mathews, a reputable contractor, filmed what he initially thought was a bright star. The film, shot with a Paillard Bolex camera, was later developed in January 1968.
Upon reviewing the film, Mathews realized the object was not a star. He described it as ring-shaped, emitting a bluish light, and appearing stationary. He contacted Colonel Norris, secretary of an Australian UFO investigation organization, who deemed the material unique and valuable. The film was then sent to Captain Bruce L. Cathie in New Zealand and subsequently to Colman Von Keviczky in New York, head of ICUFON (Intercontinental UFO Research & Analytic Network).
Von Keviczky, a former major in the Hungarian army with expertise in film and photography, along with Karl L. Veit, Bruce L. Cathie, and Harrison A. Hoffman, conducted a detailed analysis. Standard photographic methods failed to yield satisfactory results, so they sought help from Zeiss, which recommended a specialized commercial laboratory. This lab produced microscopic color reproductions at magnifications up to 300 times, which Von Keviczky further enlarged to 1,000 times.
The analysis focused on 10 frames from the 52 exposed frames, representing about 1.5 seconds of footage. The researchers concluded that Mathews was an amateur filmmaker unlikely to have faked the footage using props or tricks. The film's technical details are provided, including the camera, lens, film type (Ilford color film, 25 ASA), and exposure settings (aperture 1.9, full zoom, 18 fps).
Figure 2 shows the film frames enlarged about 30 times, revealing the object as ring-shaped and self-luminous, without visible wings, propellers, or jet engines. It appears to be a constructed object, possibly with a window-like opening. The object is tilted at a 45° angle relative to the camera.
Figure 3 shows further enlargements (60x and 150x), revealing more details. A small blue light spot, possibly a reflection from a hard surface, is noted inside the ring. The analysis indicates a difference between the first 7 frames and the last 3, with a sudden increase in brightness in frame 10, suggesting light emanating from the "window." The color of this "window frame" changes from yellow, green, and bluish in frame 7 to more reddish and orange in frame 10.
Figure 4 shows the light spot at a very large magnification. The ICUFON team believes the enhanced light reflection from the underside and rear of the craft's body, particularly the "window," provides irrefutable proof of a solid surface.
Discussion on Skepticism and Research Approach
Per Borggaard contributes a letter discussing his experiences with UFO research and the organization SUFOI. He reflects on the early days of UFO interest and his initial rejection by a prominent figure (implied to be H.C. Petersen) due to his journalistic background. Borggaard criticizes the tendency towards sensationalism and the lack of a unified, scientific approach within UFO groups.
He argues that while many UFO enthusiasts have developed their skepticism and intellectual capacity, the field has been plagued by internal disputes and a lack of cooperation. Borggaard calls for a unified effort to make "UFO-NYT" a common platform that covers all aspects of the subject, potentially leading to monthly publication and increased relevance.
Another section discusses the importance of maintaining a healthy skepticism and a grounded perspective, even when researching the "psychic fields" related to UFOs. The author warns against losing touch with reality, citing cases where individuals have struggled due to a loss of grounding.
The magazine also touches upon the idea of scientific research into UFO propulsion methods, suggesting that a single series of authentic UFO images taken under controlled conditions would be more valuable than 50 UFO books. The possibility of using specialized equipment, like a triangular array of magnetic detectors and a theodolite with an automatic camera, to track UFOs is proposed.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the need for a more scientific and organized approach to UFO research, the challenges posed by skepticism and internal divisions within the UFO community, and the presentation of specific case studies as evidence. The editorial stance appears to advocate for rigorous investigation, critical analysis, and a move away from sensationalism and unsubstantiated theories. There is a clear emphasis on methodological rigor and the collection of credible evidence, as exemplified by the detailed analysis of the Alberton film.
The magazine also implicitly critiques the lack of progress in UFO research, attributing it to the limitations of researchers themselves rather than solely to external factors like government secrecy. The call for cooperation among different UFO factions and the desire to elevate the field to a more respected scientific standing are evident throughout the articles.
Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 240-247
Issue Date: July-August 1972
Publisher: SUFOI (Danish UFO Organization)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
This issue of UFO-NYT delves into various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, featuring an analysis of a UFO photograph, a detailed account of a sighting in Australia, a review of a significant bibliography of Danish UFO literature, and reports from a German UFO congress. It also includes internal organizational news and calls for member participation.
Analysis of UFO Photograph
The issue begins with an analysis of a photograph (Fig. 4), described as a highly magnified image of a light spot and a dark silhouette. The analysis concludes that the object cannot be identified as a conventional civil or military aircraft. Its self-luminous appearance and the sudden appearance of a light beam are not consistent with standard aircraft navigation lights. Meteors and satellites are also ruled out due to their inability to remain stationary for the duration required to produce such a clear image with defined outlines. The original film strip, submitted for analysis, led the researchers to believe that the filmed aircraft is identical to what is popularly known as a flying saucer or UFO, thus suggesting an extraterrestrial origin. The Intercontinental UFO Research & Analytic Network suggests that aviation authorities worldwide should provide documented statements if they possess similar terrestrial aircraft.
Alberton Case and NICAP
The Alberton case is mentioned as having been extensively covered in various periodicals, including the National Enquirer and SAGA in the USA, People in Australia, and publications in South Africa and Scandinavia. A question is raised in the UFO Investigator (February 1972) regarding NICAP's (National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena) stance on the case. Although NICAP had not analyzed the film, they noted discrepancies in the reported data and information from various sources. The article implies that the case did not generate significant interest from NICAP, possibly due to the circumstances of its capture, with Mathews initially mistaking the object for a star.
UFO-nauts Seen in Australia
A report from the Australian newspaper "The Australian" (July 22, 1972) details an observation near Kuraby, Queensland, on July 19th. A witness, on his way to work around 2 AM, observed six objects that resolved into figures. These figures were described as soft grey. Five of them turned away as the witness approached, while the sixth stepped forward and extended its hand. The witness attempted to discern the sixth figure's facial features and was surprised to see that, despite not wearing a helmet, its face was covered by a "faceted cover," likened to a diamond, ending in a point without visible features. The witness, driving at approximately 45 mph (70 km/h), accelerated away when he saw the figures and a large, silver, stationary object on the other side of the road, near some power lines. During the observation, the witness heard a strange "p-doing-p-doing" sound that gradually faded but was still audible upon reaching the Kuraby train station. These details were provided by APRO member Lindsay McKeon.
SUFOI Member Information
This section provides updates on SUFOI's activities and organizational structure. The Representative Council (Rep.) forms the board, and the Executive Committee handles daily tasks. The Rep. meets twice a year to discuss SUFOI's work and elect members to the Executive Committee. A recent meeting in Copenhagen on September 16-17 discussed UFO-related topics and organizational matters. Ole Henningsen presented research projects and discussed how results should be published. Gunner Weichardt moderated the meeting, which included reports from various departments. Erling Jensen, chairman of the Executive Committee, discussed the impact of the book "UFOs i Fokus" and future publication possibilities, including the potential impact of Professor Hynek's book. Erik Benny Johansen reported on the increasing readership of UFO-NYT and apologized for expedition times extending to 3-4 weeks due to high workload. Finn Kalvik, SUFOI's representative in Bergen, Norway, reported on efforts to promote UFO-NYT in Norway, where over 10% of the print run is sold. He also mentioned collecting reports for registration in SUFOI and noted a lack of cooperation among Norwegian UFO groups. Kai E. Møller reported on local activities in North Jutland. Bodil Kromann, from the Translation Center, was highlighted for her significant contribution to translating articles for UFO-NYT, including Professor Hynek's book. Iver O. Kjems, editor of UFO-NYT, requested discussion topics for the magazine and noted that SUFOI aims to keep the magazine current.
Ole Henningsen also reported on 29 research projects and the need for translators. He also called for a central archive for SUFOI's collected material. Frank Lerbæk discussed UFO-NYT's layout and printing, and requested critical articles. John Petersen reported on sustained interest in lectures and the availability of slide shows. Finn Nielsen mentioned a member excursion to a satellite tracking station and local UFO reports. Peter A. Hansen discussed the information department's traveling exhibition, which was accepted by the Danish Library Association and would tour libraries starting in January 1973, with a preview in Nakskov in December 1972. He also mentioned efforts to distribute flyers and posters and send press releases. X. P. Madsen from the Alarm Center requested more members for the alarm chain, particularly in the Ringsted area, and suggested consolidating lecture requests. Gunner Weichardt presented the semi-annual financial report and noted that UFO-NYT issues from 1967 and 1968 were sold out.
Book Review: Danish UFO Literature 1946-1970
This section features two reviews of a bibliography titled "Dansk UFO-litteratur 1946-1970" (Danish UFO Literature 1946-1970), compiled by Willy Wegner in collaboration with the Institute of Folklore Studies at the University of Copenhagen. The bibliography is 253 pages long and covers the period from 1946 to 1970, cataloging books, periodicals, articles, observations, and other related topics. It also includes sections on UFOs in the past, philosophy, religion, and ufologists.
Review 1 (Frank Pedersen): Pedersen considers the work an impressive and invaluable resource for UFOlogists, providing a comprehensive overview of UFO phenomena development in Denmark over 25 years. He notes that it allows for the retrieval of sources that paint a picture of a controversial subject's origins and early years. The bibliography costs 30 DKK and can be purchased from Dansk Ufo Center.
Review 2 (The "Grumpy Man"): This reviewer, while agreeing that the bibliography is an impressive work, expresses reservations about the author's attitude towards the subject matter. The reviewer notes that Willy Wegner has publicly stated that he views the UFO phenomenon as a form of folklore or a myth complex, where one myth is as good as another. This perspective, the reviewer argues, should be kept in mind when examining the book. The reviewer specifically points out the absence of an article on UFO reports from 67 named police officers in the bibliography's index, despite the existence of a 12-page article on the topic in UFO-NYT nr. 1, 1968. Furthermore, the index does not list "pilots" or "astronomers" as separate entries, although the book covers observations by these groups. The reviewer expresses concern that the bibliography might not adequately represent the contributions of "qualified observers" and suggests that the book's focus on philosophy, religion, and doomsday prophecies (8 pages) might overshadow the more technical aspects of UFO research. The reviewer emphasizes the importance of acknowledging reports from trained, sober observers to demonstrate that the UFO issue is more than just a "greatest folk-memory-scientific problem of our time."
German UFO Congress
The 10th Internal UFO Researcher Congress was held in Wiesbaden, West Germany, from September 29 to October 1, 1972. The congress, organized by DUIST (Deutsche UFO/IFO – Studiengesellschaft e. V.), focused on "Intergalactic Space Travel." Key presentations included "Ancient Riddles in a New Ufological Light" by Karl Maier and "The Flight Physics of the Uranids" by Dr. Wolfram Fragner. Professor Hermann Oberth was unable to attend but his lecture, "We Are Being Observed," was read by Karl Maier. Dr. Jürgen Blunck discussed "Astonishing Results of Mars Research" based on new Mars photos from Mariner 9. The lecture by Rho Sigma (pseudonym), a German-American research engineer, was highly anticipated but could not be delivered in person due to illness; his manuscript was read by Karl L. Veit. Rho Sigma's book, "Forschung in Fesseln," was mentioned as recently published. Artur Berlet from Brazil presented on his "Eight-Day Planet Journey 1958," identifying himself as a contactee. The congress also featured a presentation by Wilhelm Laun on "Technical Problems in Connection with UFOs," and other lectures on space travel and UFOs. A large collection of UFO photos was exhibited, and a congress report is planned.
Call for Specialists and Lexicon Contributions
SUFOI is actively seeking members with specialized knowledge to assist in various research and translation efforts. They are looking for individuals with expertise in areas such as photography, optics, mathematics, and archaeology. The organization also seeks help with translating articles from English to Danish, and potentially other languages like German, French, Spanish, Italian, and Russian. They emphasize that even a brief summary of an article can be helpful. Furthermore, SUFOI is requesting members to contribute by checking their personal encyclopedias and lexicons for any mentions of UFOs, flying saucers, or related terms and individuals like George Adamski. The goal is to compile a register of how UFOs are presented in general reference works.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue include the detailed investigation of UFO sightings and photographic evidence, the importance of documenting and analyzing UFO literature, and the organizational efforts of SUFOI. The magazine maintains a stance of serious inquiry into the UFO phenomenon, encouraging scientific analysis and member participation. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between credible reports from "qualified observers" and more speculative or folkloric interpretations of UFOs, as highlighted in the book review. The publication also serves as a platform for disseminating information about UFO research activities and events within Denmark and internationally.
Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 249
Date: September 1972
Publisher: SUFOI
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
This issue of UFO-NYT features several articles related to UFO phenomena, media coverage, and investigations.
Det var en vandmAND (It was a waterMAN)
The main article debunks a sensational UFO photograph that appeared in the Danish newspaper Politiken on November 10th. The photograph, taken by Politiken's Aarhus photographer Erik Friis, was presented with the headline 'Godaw do der marsmand do' (Hello there, Mr. Martian). Friis claimed the 'specter' was seen over Århusbugten. The article humorously suggests that if there were 'tax-free goods on board,' the case would be settled, implying a potential hoax. A reader from Lundtofte contacted Politiken's editorial department and was told the picture was genuine, with the paper surprised no one had reported seeing 'flying saucer people.' However, the article reveals the truth: the photographer had recently acquired an underwater camera, and the picture was taken while he was leaning over the railing of a rowboat on Århusbugten. The object depicted was, in fact, a jellyfish (vandmand).
The article expresses that such sensational claims can make UFOlogists see stars and dismiss the matter, but in this instance, a reader's inquiry led to the truth. The author notes that the incident could have been easily explained if the photographer had consulted SUFOI's Rapportcentral (Report Center), which has hundreds of reports on similar cases that have been explained.
UFO-sagen helt opklaret (The UFO Case Completely Solved)
This section reviews a radio program from Danmarks Radio on September 30, 1972, where Major Per Winge was interviewed by Sven Alkærsig about flying saucers (UFOs).
Major Winge stated that in 1946, his military superior ordered him to investigate UFOs. He claimed to have thoroughly investigated the matter and, unlike others, had the 'extraordinary luck' to solve all reported cases. He presented explanations for four or five instances where people had mistaken natural phenomena for UFOs. The author of this article, writing from the perspective of SUFOI's Rapportcentral, expresses surprise that Major Winge's work was unknown to them, as they have thousands of unsolved UFO reports from Denmark. The author also notes that Winge's investigation, if it had involved SUFOI's extensive database, could have provided him with many more cases that were already explained.
Winge mentioned that his investigation in America and Russia had yielded similar results to his own. The author speculates that Winge might be referring to the Condon report in America, which was publicly called a 'scam at the highest level' by another army major. Winge's claim about Russia is met with skepticism, given that a commission of 18 scientists and 200 rapporteurs was established in Moscow in 1967 to investigate UFOs, with no public declaration yet made.
Major Winge also stated he had developed a questionnaire for his investigation. The author wonders if this questionnaire is the same one they possess, which is old and uses archaic spelling, suggesting it might be from the era of Robert Storm Petersen. The author concludes that Major Winge must have used a different questionnaire.
Tak til UFO-nyt's læsere! (Thanks to UFO-nyt's Readers!)
This is a short note from SUFOI's Udklipscentral (Clipping Center) thanking readers for sending in numerous newspaper and magazine clippings throughout the year. The center acknowledges that it's not always possible to thank each contributor personally but assures them that the clippings are valuable and used by various SUFOI departments, including the editorial team, report center, investigation department, and archives. They express gratitude for the materials, which often provide information they would not have otherwise obtained.
UFO's I FOKUS (UFOs in Focus)
This section is an advertisement for a book titled 'UFO's I FOKUS' (UFOs in Focus). It states that the book, featuring sensational photos, is in its second printing and has been a great success. The bookstore price is 46.50 kr per copy, but SUFOI members receive a special price of 34.50 kr, saving them over 12.00 kr (more than 25%). Readers are encouraged to use the giro payment method to purchase the book, with details provided for SUFOIS REGNSKABSKONTOR (SUFOI's Accounting Office) in Copenhagen.
Cartoon
A cartoon by P. Neugebauer is included, depicting a lunar landing scene with astronauts interacting with alien figures. The caption humorously states, 'Well, here in our film, we naturally deviate a bit from reality when it comes to life on the Moon...' This suggests a playful take on fictional portrayals of extraterrestrial life.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently adopts a critical and investigative stance towards UFO reports. It actively seeks to debunk sensational claims, as seen in the 'waterMAN' case, and scrutinizes official or military explanations, as exemplified by the review of Major Winge's radio interview. There is a clear emphasis on evidence-based analysis and a healthy skepticism towards unverified accounts. The publication also values its readership, acknowledging their contributions to its research and archives, and promotes related literature to its members.