AI Magazine Summary
UFO Nyt - No 2 mar-apr 1973
AI-Generated Summary
This issue of UFO Nyt (Volume 15, Issue 2, March-April 1973) is published by SKANDINAVISK UFO INFORMATION (S.U.F.O.I.). The cover features a stylized illustration of planets and stars in orange and black, with the main headline 'ufo nyt'. The price for a single issue is D.kr.…
Magazine Overview
This issue of UFO Nyt (Volume 15, Issue 2, March-April 1973) is published by SKANDINAVISK UFO INFORMATION (S.U.F.O.I.). The cover features a stylized illustration of planets and stars in orange and black, with the main headline 'ufo nyt'. The price for a single issue is D.kr. 5.75 including tax.
S.U.F.O.I. and its Structure
S.U.F.O.I. is a self-governing institution dedicated to spreading knowledge about UFOs through publications, lectures, and public outreach. It aims to clarify UFO phenomena. The organization is led by a Forretningsudvalget (Executive Committee) of seven members, elected by the Repræsentantskabet (Representative Council). The Executive Committee manages the daily operations of S.U.F.O.I. The Representative Council consists of the Executive Committee members and one representative from each established Scandinavian region, along with appointed working groups.
The issue lists the members of the Executive Committee, including Erling Jensen (Chairman), Gunner Weichardt (Treasurer), Xavier P. Madsen (Secretary), and representatives for UFO-NYT, Peter A. Hansen, Erik Benny Johansen, and John Petersen, along with their contact details.
Subscriptions can be ordered by paying D.kr. 35.00 for a calendar year to the accounting office's giro account (11 77 25). The magazine also provides contact information for the editorial staff, including the responsible editor Iver O. Kjems, and secretarial staff Frank Lerbæk and Bodil Kromann.
Key departments within S.U.F.O.I. are also detailed, such as the Accounting Office, Expedition, Report Central, Clipping Central, Information Department, and Lecture Department, with representatives listed for various regions in Denmark and Norway.
Editorial Stance
The editorial note clarifies that the articles published in UFO Nyt are contributions to understanding UFO research, and S.U.F.O.I. does not necessarily endorse the views expressed, nor does the organization accept liability for them.
Contents Overview
The table of contents indicates a variety of articles, including a leader titled 'Ny tale af Ibingira' (A New Tale by Ibingira), an article on the South African mini-wave of UFOs in 1972, observations, ufology, a report corner, information on mysterious radio echoes, astronomy, moon photos, membership information, book reviews, and various other topics.
Article: A New Tale by Ibingira
This section features a speech by Uganda's UN Ambassador, Grace S. K. Ibingira, given in November 1971 and October 1972. Ibingira discusses the growing importance of outer space and humanity's exploration of it. He emphasizes that outer space has historically influenced human culture, religions, and mythologies. He states that humanity is now physically venturing into space, and this exploration may have profound consequences for the planet. Ibingira suggests that it is widely acknowledged by scientists that humans may not be the only intelligent beings in the universe. Therefore, he believes those exploring space have a duty to keep everyone fully informed of their discoveries.
Article: The South African Mini-Wave 1972 (Part 2)
This article, written by Charles Bowen, details a series of UFO sightings in South Africa during July 1972. It begins by referencing the 'Fort Beaufort' incident and the subsequent media coverage. Bowen notes that while some reports might be misinterpretations of ordinary objects, there were also many interesting and valuable reports.
Key Incidents Reported:
- 11. Vryburg (July 5, 1972): Cattle breeder Jurie Wessels and his family reported a large, flying sphere that changed color from red to green, emitted sparks, and then disappeared.
- 12. Wellington (July 10, 1972): Mr. Ernst Koen observed a shell-shaped object moving slowly from south to north at an estimated altitude of 6,000 meters.
- 13. Welkom (July 10, 1972): Over 25 people witnessed a half-circle object blinking with red, green, and yellow lights.
- 14. Mellem Grahamstown og Adelaide (July 10, 1972): Mike Benade and his wife saw a very large, bright light hovering south of them.
- Adelaide Golf Course (July 4, 1972): A patch of scorched grass, measuring 20x12 meters, was found on a golf course.
- 15. Cyrildene, Johannesburg (July 11, 1972): Dr. Edward Blumberg and his family observed a white, drop-shaped object with dangling appendages.
- 16. Pretoria (July 10, 1972): Mrs. J. P. Davenport reported seeing an enormous green light hovering just outside the city.
- 17. Franschoek (July 13, 1972): Three people observed a luminous sphere that moved in a large circle and then sped off.
- 18. King William's Town (July 5, 1972): Mr. Tony Inch and Mr. Joe Rust saw a glowing red object shaped like a marine cap rise from the ground.
- 19. King William's Town (July 5, 1972): Mr. Edward Wilson observed two clear objects in the sky, one banana-shaped and the other triangular.
- 20. Florida (Johannesburg) (July 16, 1972): Many people saw a UFO moving from south to north, described as being much larger than an aircraft's landing light.
- 21. Malmesbury (July 16, 1972): Ten people observed an object that changed color and moved up and down rapidly.
- 22. Odendaalsrus (July 16, 1972): Police officers and others witnessed a flat, rotating disc emitting yellow light, which hovered and then flew towards Welkom.
- 23. Pietermaritzburg (July 20, 1972): Miss Thelma Odell saw a pale green, circular object with a star-like shape inside.
- 24. Pietermaritzburg (July 21, 1972): Professor Owen Williams and his wife observed a cone-shaped object with a constant red light.
- 25. Pinelands (July 21, 1972): Mrs. Muriel Alexander reported a large, clear red object that turned orange and gold, then sped off.
The article also mentions a full-page article in the Sunday Times on July 9, 1972, which covered various UFO-related stories, including a drive-in theater sighting, an object over Johannesburg, photographs of a 'UFO' over a skyscraper, the Vryburg report, and an interview with Elizabeth Klarer.
Negative Test Results:
Analyses of soil samples from Fort Beaufort by C.S.I.R. researchers were reported as 'negative', indicating no disturbance from a foreign object. The article questions this finding, as witnesses did not describe the objects as rockets.
Police Chief Believes:
Police Chief G. C. Bester, after witnessing a UFO himself, is now considered among the 'believers'. He described the object as larger than a star and visible for five minutes.
Article: "The Flying Specter" in Natal
This section, written by Philipp H. Human, discusses reports of 'ghostly creatures' in Natal, South Africa, which may fall outside the typical UFO scope but are considered due to their unconventional disappearance and the witnesses' insistence on their reality. These reports emerged during the UFO wave.
Roosboom Giant:
Mrs. Doris Muthwa and her daughter reported seeing a man in a white suit near their home in Roosboom. The suit emitted a bright light that turned pink and blue. The figure was described as approximately 3.5 meters tall and emitted an electrical sensation. The giant then shot upwards and disappeared.
Mayville Giant:
A similar 'specter' was reported in Mayville, Durban. Mrs. Thelma Hansen described the creature's head as square like a machine, with fire coming from its eyes.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
This issue of UFO Nyt heavily features reports from a significant UFO wave in South Africa during July 1972, detailing numerous sightings across various locations. The magazine, published by S.U.F.O.I., aims to document and disseminate information on UFO phenomena. The editorial stance is to present these reports as contributions to research without necessarily endorsing every detail, emphasizing the importance of spreading knowledge about these unexplained events. The inclusion of specific details like object shapes, colors, behaviors, and witness testimonies highlights the magazine's commitment to detailed reporting within the field of ufology.
Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: Vol. 18, No. 6
Date: November/December 1972
Publisher: UFO-NYT
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
This issue of UFO-NYT delves into various UFO-related phenomena, including witness accounts, physical evidence, historical records, and scientific investigations. It features a cover comic strip titled 'DYRERIGET' by Roger Bollen.
Roosboom Incident (South Africa)
The issue begins with an account from Roosboom, South Africa, detailing an encounter on August 19, 1972. Mrs. Hansens' 8-year-old daughter, Ingrid, first saw a frightening, non-human entity near a fence, describing it as "not a real human being." Dr. van Vlierden interviewed Mrs. Hansen and three other witnesses. The doctor reported that Mrs. Hansen was still upset, and she and seven other witnesses experienced after-effects such as headaches and leg pain, possibly due to the encounter.
Witnesses described the phenomenon, and when asked to draw what they saw, their sketches were remarkably similar, resembling a science-fiction-like monster. The eyes were particularly striking. The object's lower part was about 2.1 meters above the ground. When it departed, it moved straight up, then sideways, and disappeared. The article also references a follow-up in The Natal Mercury from August 23, 1972, which included testimony from Elias Khosa. Khosa claimed to have seen the creature on August 16, 1972. He stated the creature turned towards him, and though he couldn't see its head, he noticed small flames around its feet. Khosa invited the 'guest' home for a drink, but the creature turned and flew away rapidly, emitting flames and smoke. Elias' employer, Mr. Suleman Sager, stated he had never seen such a thing in his 44 years living there. Mrs. Doris Muthwa was reportedly still afraid to go down to the river, and her daughter Joyce had to hold her hand as the white-clad entity began emitting swirling lights.
UFO Landing in Norway
Another significant section details an event on June 9, 1972, in Bangsund, Norway. While people were watching the TV news, the screen was suddenly disrupted by severe interference. Later, the converter for Bangsund failed, leaving the screen gray and dead, a mystery to the Televerket (telecommunications company).
Two days later, on the morning of June 11, Ola Kr. Dahl, a council member in Namsos municipality, discovered strange tracks in the mud near his cabin on Kjølsøya. There were eight to nine tracks in total, forming circles and triangles pressed deep into the mud. The tracks were sharp and between 30 and 40 cm deep. The sides of the largest triangle measured approximately 1.5 meters. Dahl confirmed the tracks were not there a week earlier, suggesting they appeared around the time of the TV disruption.
The tracks were spread within a radius of about 25 meters, located between high and low tide marks, ruling out land-based origins. The size and pattern of the tracks suggested a large object, possibly with smaller components. The inside of the imprints was smooth and vertical, indicating the object was placed directly down, not dragged from a boat. The depth of the tracks was only about 0.5 meters, suggesting the object was not excessively large or heavy.
Similar tracks were found in other nearby locations, such as Lokkaren and Sundsøya, measuring about 40 cm deep. The possibility that these were made by the same type of aircraft was considered high. The Namdal Arbeiderblad suggested these were UFO tracks, calling it the most reasonable explanation, though other 'explanations' like stork nests filled with water or landing gear were also mentioned.
The authorities took the discoveries very seriously, with police conducting measurements. Photographs of the tracks were sent to the military, and photographers even circled Kjølsøya to document the site.
Radioactivity Findings
Analyses of soil samples from the tracks at Sundsøya, conducted by Norsk UFO Center in Trondheim and N. A. in collaboration with experts from the Norwegian Institute of Technology, revealed the presence of foreign radioactive particles. These particles had never been measured in Norway before. The measurements were taken using highly sensitive instruments. Soil samples from the shore outside the tracks showed no radioactivity.
Cand. real. Knut Gussgard from the Institute for Atomic Energy at Kjeller questioned the scientific validity of these analyses, stating that radioactive material does not 'seep' away during analysis and that there should always be a measurable amount left. He suggested potential sources of error and that many soil samples can show some radioactivity with sensitive instruments. He considered the difference between the track sample and the outside sample to be possibly due to coincidence.
Kolbjørn Stenødegård from NUFOC in Trondheim criticized Gussgard for making categorical statements without proper investigation. Stenødegård explained that the delay in the analysis process (over a week between Geiger counter readings and chamber analysis) caused the radioactivity levels to decrease, making precise chamber analysis difficult. NUFOC had three reference samples, none of which showed any radioactive reaction. The tracks, however, did show a reaction. The indications of introduced radioactivity were:
1. The track sample showed a reaction, while three reference samples did not.
2. The reading from the track sample was higher than expected for natural background radiation.
3. The detected radioactivity had a short half-life.
Stenødegård concluded that these facts suggest the tracks became radioactive due to external influence, possibly from some kind of engine. He mentioned that highly regarded experts in mineralogy and atomic physics, who have witnessed similar circumstances, share this conclusion.
Further Norwegian Incidents
The article also mentions that the tracks in Lygnenfjorden were aligned with those in Lokkaren and Sundsøya, forming a straight line of sight, similar to observations made in France years prior (according to Aimé Michel).
It recounts a previous UFO incident from 1959, where Lorentz Johnsen witnessed a strange object over Lygnenfjorden. He described it as a large, possibly plexiglass-like hood, non-luminous but reflecting moonlight, moving silently. It then exploded or tore apart over the lake, releasing three to four disc-shaped objects that fell into the water. Johnsen contacted Værnes Flystation, but no missing aircraft were reported.
Another observation before the tracks incident involved Andreas and Asbjørn Grav, who saw an intense, glowing fireball on April 23, 1972. They described it as a large object moving slowly and in waves, with two searching light beams. They speculated it might be related to the tracks found later.
Observations over North and Mid-Zealand (Denmark)
On Sunday, February 11, 1973, at 9:29 PM, a UFO alarm was triggered in Hørsholm, Denmark. A red object was seen splitting into two, followed by a large white object moving from east to southwest. Observers were alerted, and walkie-talkie groups were dispatched.
At 9:57 PM, a report came from St. Heddinge about a white object and four red objects seen over Kamstrup, south of Roskilde. The red objects were observed at close range before flying south. This led to alarms being raised across all of Zealand.
Later, a white object was seen over Roskilde, along with red, orange, and yellow lights behaving strangely. The Roskilde Tidende published a brief note about the observation on February 13, leading to numerous inquiries to the alarm center. The Roskilde Tidende and Roskilde Opland later published a press release from the PR department, which resulted in an overwhelming response from the public, with many reporting sightings of both aircraft and strange lights.
It was confirmed that there was heavy air traffic due to Kastrup Airport being closed due to ice. However, no military flights were detected. Out of approximately 100 reports, it was difficult to definitively distinguish between regular aircraft and UFOs. However, a large white object moving from northeast to southwest was noted, along with yellow, orange, and red lights exhibiting unusual movements. Some observers reported seeing three red, round lights in a horizontal plane with a small white light above, moving in circles around a larger object and making sharp turns and pendular movements.
The widespread media coverage also brought in reports from days preceding and following the main observation. The article anticipates a more detailed report in the next issue of UFO-NYT and encourages readers to remain vigilant.
Skyhook - Balloon or Flying Saucer?
This section discusses Skyhook balloons, large polyethylene balloons used for atmospheric research, and how they have been mistaken for UFOs. Gordon Vaeth is credited for his contributions. These balloons, due to their size and near-transparency, can appear strange in the sky and are visible from up to 30 km away. Their appearance varies greatly depending on their inflation level, making them difficult to identify as balloons, even for experienced observers.
Aircraft have reportedly tried to intercept Skyhooks, only to find they could not gain altitude relative to these objects. Despite their apparent slow movement, Skyhooks can travel at speeds of up to 300 km/h. The article notes that when a Skyhook drifts in a direction opposite to the ground wind, it further fuels the belief that it is an unidentified object.
A typical example cited is from 1947, when a Skyhook hovered over a city for hours, causing confusion and concern. Its reflection of sunlight made it visible even in darkness. The balloon's color changed to red as the sun set, intensifying the public's reaction.
The article suggests that these Skyhook observations were a primary source for many 'flying saucer' reports, leading researchers to initially dismiss other reports. However, this changed on April 24, 1949.
White Sands Observation (April 24, 1949)
On this date, a balloon crew from the White Sands proving ground in New Mexico, along with personnel from the US Navy Special Devices Center, launched a Skyhook balloon. The author was present as a representative of the Navy.
A special launch site was set up near Arrey, New Mexico. Aerologist Charles B. Moore, Jr., along with four Navy personnel, set up instruments to observe local weather conditions prior to the launch. These instruments included a stopwatch and an M.L. 47 theodolite, a tracking instrument with a 25x magnification telescope.
At 10:20 AM on April 24, a small weather balloon was launched to observe upper winds. Moore tracked it with the theodolite. At 10:30 AM, he released the tracking instrument to visually locate the balloon. While searching, he spotted a whitish, spherical object in the direction the theodolite was pointing (45 degrees altitude, 210 degrees azimuth). This object was moving east at a speed of 5 degrees azimuth per second.
When the discrepancy between the theodolite's reading and the suspected balloon became apparent, Moore refocused on the unidentified object as it moved out of the sun's glare. At this point, the sun was at 60 degrees altitude and 127 degrees azimuth. The object was moving too fast to be tracked in the telescope while the theodolite was being adjusted. One of the men had to...
Historical 'Meteor' in China (235 AD)
Richard Heiden from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, submitted an interesting account from the year 235 AD, found on page 245 of the astronomical chapters of Chin Shu, by Li Shun-feng (620–670 AD), edited and translated by Ho Peng Yoke.
The text describes an event during the reign of Emperor Hou Chu of the Shu kingdom. While a large army led by Choko Liang was stationed in Wei-nan, a red meteor with sharp rays descended from the northeast into the camp. The object moved back and forth over the camp three times, growing larger each time it approached. In ancient Chinese interpretation, such an event over one of two opposing armies was a bad omen for that army.
In the ninth month (September 30 to October 29), Liang died in his camp, and his army burned its tents and retreated. The generals were reportedly filled with mutual hatred and fought amongst themselves.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
This issue of UFO-NYT consistently explores the unexplained, presenting a mix of contemporary sightings and historical accounts. The magazine appears to lean towards investigating and documenting UFO phenomena, encouraging public participation through reporting and library inquiries. There's a clear interest in physical evidence, such as the radioactive traces found in Norway, and in debunking misidentifications, like the Skyhook balloons. The editorial stance seems to be one of open-minded inquiry, seeking to understand these events and their potential implications, while also acknowledging the scientific challenges and skepticism involved.
This issue of UFO-NYT, spanning issues 61-65, focuses on UFO sightings, Soviet perspectives on extraterrestrial contact, and the intriguing phenomenon of delayed radio echoes. The cover story, "Russians Believe in Contact with Civilizations in Space," highlights the prominent role of science fiction in Soviet society and their optimistic outlook on finding alien intelligence.
UFO Sightings in Denmark (1972)
The magazine details numerous UFO sightings reported in Denmark throughout 1972. These include:
- Fredericia (September 29): Three objects in a V-formation, described as needle-heads, emitted light cones and changed color. They were observed from Kolding and Fredericia.
- Langeland (October 4): A large, round, greenish-glowing object was seen moving rapidly downwards.
- Åbenrå Fjord (October 15): A large, silver, cigar-shaped object was observed flying slower than a plane.
- Skagen (November 10): A bright white object was seen on the horizon.
- Vedbæk (November 14): An object with changing colors (yellow to blue-white) and a corona was observed.
- Helsingør to Nærum (November 14): An object described as a 'pyrolysis flame' emitting smoke was seen briefly.
- Herlev (Mid-November): A yellowish object, estimated to be moving at 300-400 km/h, was observed.
- Skærbæk (November 18): An object was seen moving in satellite speed within a dark cloud formation.
- Islands Brygge (November 19): Two or three yellowish, oval objects were observed moving rapidly.
- Bagsværd (Late November): An orange object, approximately 25 cm in size, was seen hovering.
- Holte (December 2): An object initially mistaken for a star moved east, changing color from orange to white and then reddish, with two red lights visible before disappearing.
- Kattegat (December 4): A needle-head sized object, possibly with a smaller one below it, changed colors and had a corona.
- Nykøbing Sj. (December 12): A bright blue object, the size of a needle-head, was seen moving at high speed towards the ground.
Soviet Perspectives on Science Fiction and Contact
The issue explores the significant role of science fiction in the Soviet Union, not just as entertainment but as a component of Marxist societal prognoses. Authors like Konstantin Ziolkowski, Alexei Tolstoi, Alexander Bjeljajaw, Iwan Jefremow, and Stanislaw Lem are discussed for their contributions to speculative fiction, often featuring space travel, alien encounters, and futuristic societies. Iwan Jefremow, in particular, is highlighted for his novels like "Andromeda Nebula" and "The Heart of the Star," which explore advanced civilizations and interstellar communication. The general sentiment among Soviet writers and scientists is optimistic about the possibility of contact with extraterrestrial intelligences.
The Mystery of Delayed Radio Echoes
A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the ongoing investigation into delayed radio echoes, particularly the work of Duncan Lunan. Lunan, a graduate from Glasgow University, claims to have deciphered a code within these echoes, which have mystified radio astronomers for decades. He suggests that these signals might originate from an extraterrestrial probe, possibly from the Epsilon Boötis system, which has been observing Earth. Lunan's theory posits that a probe was sent by a civilization nearing its end, possibly to study colder star systems like our own.
The G.O.L.D.E. Project
To test Lunan's theory, Anthony Lawton, head of the computer department at E.M.I., is initiating a radio experiment called G.O.L.D.E. (Ground Observed Long Delayed Echoes). This project involves adjusting equipment to send a recognizable signal towards the Moon and analyzing the returning echoes for patterns that would confirm Lunan's findings. The goal is to potentially elicit further information from the probe, which is believed to possess a computer-like memory.
Professor Bracewell's Input
Professor R. N. Bracewell, an American astronomer, is intrigued by Lunan's work, suggesting that if Van der Pol's lost notes on similar phenomena could be found, they might corroborate Lunan's findings. Bracewell acknowledges the growing acceptance of the possibility of life elsewhere in the universe and notes that radio astronomers in Russia and America are actively searching for intelligent signals from nearby stars.
Challenges and Speculations
Despite the interest, astronomers remain cautious, particularly regarding the Epsilon Boötis system. It's a binary star system with a blue-white star and an expanding orange giant. The age of the system (less than three billion years, compared to Earth's 4.5 billion) raises questions about whether life could have evolved on any potential planets. The magazine also touches upon the potential societal and political reactions to the discovery of an extraterrestrial probe, with some fearing it while others seek its secrets.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
This issue of UFO-NYT consistently explores the intersection of unexplained aerial phenomena, scientific inquiry, and speculative fiction. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, presenting various reports and theories while encouraging readers to form their own conclusions. The recurring theme is the persistent human curiosity about the unknown, particularly regarding extraterrestrial life and advanced civilizations, whether they are perceived through sightings, scientific research, or imaginative storytelling.
This issue of UFO-NYT, dated January 1973, focuses on the potential for extraterrestrial life and astronomical discoveries, alongside updates on UFO research and SUFOI's activities.
Interstellar Communication and Space Probes
The magazine begins by discussing the work of the British Interplanetary Society in studying technical possibilities for interstellar communication. It mentions the Pioneer 10 space probe, which, after visiting Jupiter, will leave the solar system and travel towards the star Aldebaran, taking approximately 1.7 million years to reach it. The probe carries a plaque depicting a man and a woman, the spacecraft, and a diagram showing the location of Earth relative to 14 pulsars.
Life on a Distant Moon?
A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the possibility of life on other celestial bodies. Astronomers, led by Carl Sagan from Cornell University, have investigated Titan, Saturn's largest moon. Infrared and telescopic measurements indicate that Titan is significantly warmer than previously thought (around -100 degrees Fahrenheit) and possesses a denser atmosphere. Sagan suggests a "greenhouse effect" is responsible for trapping heat. The article speculates that Titan's atmosphere, rich in hydrogen, methane, and ammonia, could, under solar radiation, form complex organic compounds like sugars and amino acids, similar to the "primordial soup" believed to have fostered life on Earth. Sagan describes Titan as a "time machine" offering insights into early Earth.
Further discoveries involve Europa and Ganimedes, two of Jupiter's twelve moons. Observations from Kitt Peak National Observatory suggest these moons are largely covered by water-ice, akin to Earth. While not definitive proof of life, these findings increase the possibility.
The article notes that NASA's planned Jupiter-Saturn missions in 1977, which would have allowed for close-up studies of these moons, are threatened by budget cuts. The delay in such missions means it will take another 20 years for planets to align for a similar launch.
Lunar Plasma
The Soviet moon probe Luna 19, which concluded its mission in October 1972, discovered plasma on and near the Moon's surface. This plasma is believed to be formed by the interaction of cosmic rays with lunar material. The Russians are expected to release information on radio reflections from the lunar surface.
Star Planet Discovery
Astronomer Peter van de Kamp from Swarthmore College's Sproul Observatory has reported the discovery of an unusual object orbiting Epsilon Eridani, a star approximately 10.7 light-years away. This object is too large to be a conventional planet and too small to be a star, leading to the term "star planet." Van de Kamp's research, based on astrometry and the analysis of over 800 photographic plates, indicates this invisible body orbits Epsilon Eridani at a distance of about eight times that of Earth from the Sun, with an orbital period of 25 years. The object is estimated to be at least six times the mass of Jupiter. Van de Kamp suggests it is unlikely to sustain stellar nuclear reactions and proposes it as a new category of celestial body.
Book Reviews
Aids to Identification of Flying Objects
Reviewed by Edgar Hatvany, this book from the U.S. Government Printing Office is noted for its concise history of ufology, covering observations from 1254 to various U.S. Air Force projects and the Colorado University study. It provides tips on acquiring reports and explains the rationale behind the Colorado University study. The review highlights an 8-page Q&A section featuring Dr. J. Allen Hynek and a bibliography that functions as a "Who is Who" in the field of flying saucers.
Science, the Public and the UFO
Reviewed by Doreen Whitaker, Arthur Bray's book explores topics from pseudo- and orthodox science and philosophy to UFO propulsion. Bray, a former Canadian Air Force pilot, places more trust in reports from trained observers like pilots and controllers than from the general public. The book includes a list of worldwide observations from reliable sources and presents the "otherworldly spacecraft" hypothesis as the most probable explanation for UFOs.
Astronomy One
Reviewed by Ole Henningsen, this section discusses the book "Astronomy One" by J. Allen Hynek and Necia H. Apfel. The reviewer notes that while the book covers astronomy extensively, it surprisingly omits UFO phenomena. A reviewer in "Sky and Telescope" expressed surprise at this omission, given the expertise of the authors, and suggested that college students would benefit from an introduction to UFOs in their astronomy materials.
SUFOI Activities and Information
Membership Orientation
This section provides updates on SUFOI's work. The executive committee has discussed several key points, including increasing readership for UFO-NYT through recommendations, advertising in local and national press, and distributing informational material. Advertising has been placed in local newspapers, particularly in areas where SUFOI's traveling exhibition has visited.
Congress in Copenhagen
SUFOI was invited to present its work at a congress for amateur astronomers in Copenhagen, attended by participants from Nordic countries. The organization's chairman, Erling Jensen, spoke, and informational material was distributed.
New Study Material
SUFOI is preparing a new set of duplicated booklets for study groups, aiming to provide a concise history of UFOs. This material will also be suitable for presentations.
Traveling Exhibition
The SUFOI traveling exhibition has visited several Danish libraries, including Nakskov, Hirtshals, Ebeltoft, and Herning, with current stops in Fredericia.
UFO Groups and Lectures
Several UFO groups are seeking new participants, including the Odense UFO-Kreds and Virum UFO-Kreds. SUFOI also offers lectures to local organizations and clubs, with speakers available on short notice.
UFO Reports 1972
Work is underway to compile the 1972 UFO reports. Out of approximately 300 received, about 85 were selected for detailed investigation.
Volunteers Needed
SUFOI is seeking volunteers to assist with various tasks, including reviewing newspaper archives for UFO-related information and helping to recruit new readers for UFO-NYT.
UFO Stickers
SUFOI offers UFO stickers for sale to support its activities.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are the scientific investigation of potential extraterrestrial life, the exploration of space, and the reporting and analysis of UFO phenomena. The magazine adopts a stance that encourages scientific inquiry into UFOs, presenting findings from astronomical research and UFO investigations with a tone of open-mindedness and a desire for public acknowledgment of the UFO phenomenon. There is a clear emphasis on gathering and disseminating information, both through the magazine and through SUFOI's various activities like exhibitions and study groups.
Title: UFO og VIDENSKABEN
Issue: 81
Volume: 6
Date: December 1972
Publisher: SUFOI
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
This issue of "UFO og VIDENSKABEN" delves into the profound psychological and spiritual impacts of space travel on astronauts, alongside a discussion of UFO phenomena by scientists and a report on a presidential UFO sighting.
Astronauternes blomstring (The Blooming of Astronauts)
The lead article, "Astronauternes blomstring," explores the unexpected and deep personal transformations experienced by many American astronauts after their missions, particularly those who traveled to the Moon. It challenges the stereotype of astronauts as emotionless individuals, revealing how their experiences in space have led to significant life changes.
Al Worden, the Apollo 15 command module pilot, found himself writing poetry after his lunar mission, a stark contrast to his previously non-introspective life. He describes his duty as a "birthright" and accepts the dangers of space travel.
Rusty Schweickart of Apollo 9 famously stated, "I am not the same as before. None of us are." His experience in space led him to dedicate much of his time to a clinic for drug addicts in Houston and to participate in a volunteer telephone counseling service. He also practices transcendental meditation.
Ed Michell, an Apollo 14 astronaut, found his experience so impactful that he withdrew from the space program. He is now dedicated to exploring extrasensory perception (ESP) and believes it can help foster greater "intuitive" communication among people worldwide.
Jim Irwin, an Apollo 15 astronaut, viewed his moonwalk as a deeply religious experience. He felt the "presence of God" and, a month after returning, felt called by God to become a "moon missionary" and a Baptist preacher.
Charles Duke of Apollo 16 was overwhelmed by a sense of God's omnipotence when looking at the lunar landscape.
Bill Anders from Apollo 8 experienced feelings of humanity and human needs when viewing Earth from space. Tom Stafford, a veteran of Gemini and Apollo missions, noted that seeing Earth from space changes one's perspective from national to human.
Michael Collins, the Apollo 11 command module pilot, found the isolation behind the Moon stimulating, embracing the solitude.
John Young of Apollo 10 and 16 reflected on environmental issues on Earth after seeing its fragility from space. Jack Swigert of Apollo 13, even during the mission's crisis, considered technological solutions for Earth's environmental problems.
Neil Armstrong, the first man on the Moon, described seeing Earth as a small blue marble, making him feel very small. Alan Shepard, the first American in space, admitted to a significant personal change, moving from being a "terrible lout" to a "quite ordinary lout."
Buzz Aldrin, who accompanied Armstrong on the first Moonwalk, struggled with the role of a hero and experienced a "good old-fashioned American nervous breakdown." In contrast, other astronauts like John Glenn, Wally Shirra, Frank Borman, and Al Shepard leveraged their fame for careers in politics, media, and business.
Mike Collins and Pete Conrad expressed relief at returning to a normal life, finding the post-hero lifestyle less demanding than the constant attention.
Ed Michell summarized the common sentiment: "One develops an immediate, global consciousness, an orientation towards humanity, an intense dissatisfaction with the state of the world, and a feeling of obligation to do something about it."
UFO og VIDENSKABEN (UFO and Science) - Book Review/Discussion
This section highlights "UFO og VIDENSKABEN," the first volume in SUFOI's new DEBATBOGS-SERIE (Debate Books Series). It features quotes from six scientists discussing UFOs:
- Dr. Hynek dismisses the Condon report's conclusion that UFOs are merely misinterpretations.
- Dr. Salisbury questions whether Mr. Adamski's accounts were genuine or influenced by hypnosis.
- Dr. Sprinkle believes the "spaceship hypothesis" best explains the evidence for UFO phenomena.
- Dr. Harder cites a 1947 USAF study that concluded UFOs were real and interplanetary.
- Dr. McDonald considers the UFO problem a matter of significant scientific interest.
- Dr. Saunders is optimistic about making progress in understanding UFOs.
The book is available for purchase through SUFOI and STRUBES FORLAG.
Præsident Amin har set UFO (President Amin has seen UFO)
A news report from March 3, 1973, details Ugandan President Idi Amin's sighting of a mysterious, smoke-shrouded flying object over Lake Victoria. Amin and his entourage observed the object descend into the lake and later ascend like a rocket before disappearing. The President considered the sighting a "good omen" for Uganda. The report also mentions that the object was described as resembling a "snake's tail" and was estimated to be between 10 and 16 km away.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently explores the intersection of extraordinary experiences (like space travel and UFO sightings) with scientific inquiry and personal transformation. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation into unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs, and a deep interest in the human element and psychological impact of these events. The publication promotes scientific debate and encourages readers to consider the broader implications of space exploration and potential extraterrestrial contact.