UFO Nyt - No 4 juli-aug 1974

Magazine Overview

Title: ufo nyt
Issue: 4
Volume: 16
Date: July-August 1974
Publisher: SKANDINAVISK UFO INFORMATION
Country: Denmark
Original Language: Danish

Articles and Content

"Der var engang..." (Once Upon a Time...)

This article revisits the famous 1962 UFO photograph taken by 14-year-old Alex Birch in Mosborough, England, showing five flying saucers. Initially, the photograph was presented as genuine, with no discrepancies found in the boys' accounts or the negatives. However, the article reveals that over ten years later, on October 6, 1972, Alex Birch confessed on a BBC TV program that the photo was a hoax. He admitted to painting the dark objects onto a glass plate held in front of his camera lens. The article reflects on how UFO photographs are not always reliable evidence and that elaborate hoaxes can be difficult to detect.

"Hvorfor...?" (Why...?)

This section addresses the magazine's policy of publishing articles about UFO hoaxes. The editorial stance is that it is important for readers to be well-informed about such deceptions to better protect themselves from being misled.

Chef for fransk Rumstudie-center undersøger UFO-rapporter (Head of French Space Study Center Investigates UFO Reports)

• This article summarizes a four-year study conducted by Mr. Claude Poher, head of the rocket department at France's Space Study Center in Toulouse. Poher analyzed 1000 'serious' UFO reports, 200 of which were from French territory. The computer-processed data led to several conclusions:
• The phenomenon is global, with observations influenced by cloud cover and population density.
• At least two witnesses were present in 70% of cases, often multiple witnesses or even entire villages.
• Adults were more likely to report sightings than children.
• Witnesses were from diverse occupations.
• Witnesses preferred to remain anonymous if they were scientists.
• In 70% of cases, UFOs were seen within 1 km.
• 80% of reports described round objects, and 20% described elongated objects.
• UFOs were red-orange at night and metallic during the day.
• Round or circular UFOs were estimated to be between 10 and 30 meters in diameter.
• Most UFOs were silent, with noise reported only when objects were within 150 meters.
• 10% of UFOs were seen stationary, 20% moved away slowly, 50% moved away quickly, and the rest moved at high speed.
• In 50% of cases, objects moved in unusual ways.
• About 20% of reports mentioned landed UFOs.
• Poher found consistency and logic in the reports, regardless of the observer's nationality or education.

"Lysende genstand filmet nær ved Newark, England" (Luminous Object Filmed Near Newark, England)

This article by Trevor Whitaker details an incident on August 11, 1970, where W. H. Huntington, a 56-year-old director, filmed a luminous object near Newark, England. While driving with his wife and stepdaughter, they spotted a golden, flame-like object in the sky. Huntington used his Super 8 mm camera to film it, zooming in to maximum magnification. The object appeared to be a long, stretched, flame-colored streak, approximately 3,000 meters high and 25 km away. The film was later analyzed by BUFORA (British UFO Research Association). Charles Bowen, in his assessment, noted that the object's constant glow and lack of condensation trail suggested it was not an aircraft. The object's appearance was compared to a similar phenomenon photographed in Cappoquin, Ireland, in 1965.

Percy Hennell kommenterer... (Percy Hennell Comments...)

Percy Hennell offers his commentary on the Huntington film, noting the grain structure in the enlarged prints and stating that he could not discern any evidence of trickery. He suggests the object's shape and the 'gas' at its rear bear a resemblance to the Cappoquin photograph. He also mentions a possible 'wave effect' at the front of the object and speculates on its large size given the lens type used.

UFO-mannskap i Mexico (UFO Crew in Mexico)

This report, which came to light in May 1973, describes an observation from August 18, 1972, by Raymundo Villegas Alvarez and Pancho Torres in Ixtapalapa, Mexico. They reported seeing two unusually tall (approx. 2.5 meters), slender beings with silver suits, long heads, and green, luminous eye-like protrusions. The beings reportedly floated rather than walked. The encounter ended when a woman with a milk pail appeared, causing a dust cloud from which the beings vanished.

UFO-rapporter fra 1973 (UFO Reports from 1973)

This section, written by Peter A. Hansen, provides an analysis and commentary on UFO reports received by SUFOI in 1973. The number of reports increased to approximately 500, up from 300 in 1972. Out of these, 200 reports were processed, with only 100 being classified as unidentified after investigation. The article outlines SUFOI's reporting procedure, emphasizing that no report is ever discarded, even if explained. It also lists common misidentifications, such as meteors, helicopters, airplanes, and planets, and notes that daytime reports often involve weather balloons. The section concludes with a list of observation dates from January to May 1973, noting that 6 of the 100 registered reports were from Sweden and Norway.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes the importance of critical analysis and informed skepticism in UFO research. It highlights the prevalence of hoaxes and misidentifications, advocating for thorough investigation and documentation. The editorial stance is to provide readers with comprehensive information, including both unexplained phenomena and instances of deception, to foster a more educated understanding of the UFO subject. The commitment to archiving all reports, regardless of explanation, underscores a dedication to thoroughness and future reference.

This issue of UFO-NYT, dated April 1974 (4-74), is the first issue of volume 'nr. 1' and features the cover headline "UFOer på radar" (UFOs on Radar). The magazine is published by SUFOI and focuses on UFO/UAP research and reports.

Analysis of UAP Observations

The magazine presents a detailed analysis of UAP observations, including data on witness demographics, observation times, and object characteristics. The data suggests that most observers fall within the 20-49 age range, with the 40-49 age group being the most frequent (27 observers). The duration of observations varies, with a significant number lasting between 5 and 30 minutes. A notable finding is that most objects are observed for about 5 minutes, contradicting the notion that they are only seen for a few seconds.

Object Characteristics

Number of Objects: Typically, one object is observed per sighting (70 instances). However, multiple objects were seen in 30% of cases, including 12 instances of two objects, 3 of three, 7 of four, and 8 of more than four.

Sound: In 97% of cases, no sound was described. In the remaining 3%, sounds were described as a faint hiss, a "hissing like a nail against hard ground," or a "faint whoosh."

Light: 75% of observed objects had a constant brightness, while 25% exhibited blinking or pulsating light. This pulsating phenomenon is described as unique, with intensity regularly increasing and decreasing.

Movement: Reports indicate changes in course (40 instances), speed (30 instances), and altitude (31 instances). Nearly half of the observations (47 instances) showed no such changes. Some observations involved combined course and altitude changes.

Shape: The traditional classifications of UFO shapes (oblong, bell-shaped, egg-shaped, small sphere) are deemed insufficient. The reports describe a variety of shapes, with round, point-shaped, and small square objects constituting 75% of the material. 16 objects were described as "oblong" with variations, and 2 as "egg-oval."

Color: Reported colors include white, yellow/orange/golden, red, gray/dark, bluish, greenish, and violette. Some objects displayed changing colors or a constant brightness.

Size and Altitude: Estimates for size range from 2 to 15 meters, and altitudes from 30 to 400 meters.

Electromagnetic Effects: Not specified.

Physical Trace Evidence: A smoke trail was observed in one instance, and a vapor cloud was noted during acceleration in another.

Specific Sightings and Reports

The magazine details numerous specific sightings from Denmark and Sweden:

• September 15, 1966 (Skive, Denmark): A disk-shaped object with a superstructure and round windows was observed hovering at 30 meters.
• Autumn 1966 (Jylland, Denmark): Several similar observations of disk-shaped objects were reported.
• Autumn 1966 (Knejsted Mark, Denmark): Four people observed a disk-shaped object with a superstructure for one minute.
• Autumn 1966 (Holstebro, Denmark): A couple observed a disk-shaped object that landed in a field.
• August 12, 1969 (Laarup, Denmark): Four people in a car saw an elongated, orange-glowing object.
• July 26, 1972 (Bøgeskov, Denmark): Two women observed a small, red, blinking object described as larger than the moon.
• November 29, 1973 (Bøgeskov, Denmark): Four people reported a cigar-shaped, black object.
• February 24, 1974 (Langeskov to Ullerslev, Denmark): A driver observed a white object shaped like two saucers joined rim-to-rim, accompanied by a green sphere.
• March 16, 1974 (Norway): A Norwegian couple saw a bright light descending towards their car.
• March 21, 1974 (Tinglev, Denmark): Two people observed a yellow saucer-shaped object with a corona, emitting lights and a distinct sound.
• March 27, 1974 (Holbæk, Denmark): Four students observed a red, pulsating object with a white corona.
• March 29, 1974 (Sorø, Denmark): A couple observed a spherical, orange-glowing object with red-white light emissions.
• March 29, 1974 (Akademihaven, Denmark): An academy student reported a silent, oval object with a white light and red-white light emissions.
• December 12, 1972 (Torslanda Airfield, Sweden): Two gray objects were observed flying in formation near the airfield.
• October 10, 1972 (Boden, Sweden): Three luminous objects were seen flying in a V-formation.

Call for Information and Analysis

SUFOI is seeking further reports and professional analysis of their collected material. They are particularly interested in individuals with educational backgrounds in astronomy, meteorology, and psychology. Readers are encouraged to submit their observations and any insights that could aid in analyzing the data.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the detailed cataloging and analysis of UAP sightings. The editorial stance is one of diligent data collection and a desire for scientific interpretation, as evidenced by the call for expert analysis and the detailed breakdown of observational data. The magazine aims to present factual accounts and statistical breakdowns of reported phenomena, encouraging reader participation in advancing the understanding of UAPs.

This issue of UFO-NYT, dated 4-74, focuses on UFO sightings and related topics, including space exploration. The cover prominently features the headline "UFO over Hallingdal" and a section on "Videnskab og rumfart" (Science and Space Travel), accompanied by an image of Mercury.

Key UFO Sightings and Reports

Finland: Bilister Så UFO (Motorists Saw UFO)

On the evening of November 10, 1971, three young men driving near Sandholmsvejen in Finland reported seeing a bright light that evolved into a V-formation of objects. These objects flew closer, stopped abruptly, and maintained the formation, emitting a constant, intense red light. After about 12 minutes, one object flew east and disappeared behind a mountain. The other two remained stationary. The first object returned, rejoining the formation, and after another 12 minutes, the entire formation rapidly disappeared to the west. The objects then rearranged their positions within the V-formation before vanishing. The entire observation lasted 2-3 minutes.

Norway: Lysende Genstand med Vinduer (Luminous Object with Windows)

On the night of July 17, 1973, two young men, Ove Hagen and Terje Johnsen, driving on E 18 near Kragerø, Norway, observed a luminous object in front of them. The object was round, appeared to have windows, and crossed their path at a low altitude. It later descended towards a car, stopped for 10-15 seconds, and then headed north towards Toppilo factories, disappearing at high speed. The object was described as hat-shaped with a diameter of 10-15 meters and a height of about half its diameter. It had three colored lights on its underside, and the lower part rotated while the dome remained still. The dome had window-like openings, with three illuminated windows visible. The object was surrounded by a red light. The weather was partly cloudy with temperatures around 12-15 degrees Celsius.

UFO over Hallingdal

This extensive report details an observation on March 13, from 18:25 to 19:20, involving a UFO over Hallingdal, Norway. The event was also observed from Bøn, Lillestrøm, and Nesbyen. Journalist John O. Oldertrøen from Tynset observed the object for a longer period, from 16:35 to 18:55. The weather was lightly cloudy and hazy with a weak southwesterly wind at ground level, and a temperature of approximately 0 degrees Celsius. At 18,000 meters, wind speed was around 50 knots from 285 degrees. The object moved against the wind direction, ascending from 6 to 15 degrees, estimated to be from 18,000 to 45,000 meters. Cross-bearings from Eidsvoll and Lillestrøm indicated the object's position. Photos were taken with a Minolta Hi-matic 9, using Ektachrome X film. The object's size was estimated at about 50 meters in diameter, with a typical saucer shape visible in photos from Nesbyen. Oldertrøen reported the object moved slowly south/southeast, stopping for about half an hour near Tronfjellet (1166 meters) where a TV mast is located. At 18:50, it accelerated rapidly and disappeared into space. The observer experienced a strange, uncomfortable feeling, described as shortness of breath.

Press Coverage of Hallingdal Incident

ØSTLENDINGEN reported on March 14 that a UFO was seen over Tronfjellet. Children in Neverrøsta, Tynset, first spotted the phenomenon around 16:30, mistaking it initially for a jet plane or a parachutist. The object was described as hemispherical. The report notes that the object stopped and made a course change, ruling out a satellite. A plane seen simultaneously passed Tynset on a southeast course. The object emitted a silver-shining or white metallic light and remained stationary for about half an hour before suddenly accelerating and disappearing.

Other Sightings and Reports

• Drammens Tidende og Buskerud Blad (March 14.3.): Reported a luminous sphere over Hallingdal, visible for about half an hour.
• ØSTLENDINGEN (March 15.3.): Identified a UFO over Sør-Gudbrandsdal as a likely balloon, based on an amateur astronomer's observation. The object was estimated to be at least 2000 meters high and possibly a ruptured balloon without markings.
• Eidsvoll Blad (March 19.3.): Reported a luminous disc with a dark center seen in the northwest sky, visible for about an hour.
• Commentary: The issue includes commentary suggesting that the observed phenomena, particularly the object's behavior near Tronfjellet, indicate an origin other than terrestrial. The possibility of a Skylook balloon is considered but deemed less likely due to the object's specific maneuvers. The commentary concludes that the evidence points towards an object of non-terrestrial origin, possibly with an electromagnetic field.

Mystik under solformørkelsen (Mystery during the Solar Eclipse)

This article discusses a report from June 30, 1973, concerning an object of magnitude 2 observed during a total solar eclipse in Kenya by Belgian astronomers F. Dossin and A. Heck. The object was located 18 degrees south of the sun and ecliptic. The report questions why other astronomers did not report such a clear, new object. Explanations considered include a comet or a weather balloon, but the object's brightness and behavior during the eclipse are puzzling. The article references a report from Brisbane stating no object clearer than magnitude +2 was visible in that position on July 11. The author, Fl. Ahrenkiel, speculates on various possibilities, including a local phenomenon related to the observers' cameras.

Directory of Scandinavian UFO Publications

The magazine provides a list of UFO-related periodicals from Norway and Sweden, including contact information and subscription details:

• Norway: UFO FORUM (Norsk UFO Center)
• Sweden: GICOFF-INFORMATION, TELLUS, UFO INFORMATION, UFOLOGEN, UFO-RAPPORT.

Rumfærgen - NASA's næste store rumfartsprojekt (The Space Shuttle - NASA's Next Major Space Project)

This detailed article describes NASA's Space Shuttle program. The "Shuttle," officially named Orbiter, is designed to travel between Earth's surface and space and return safely, allowing for multiple uses. It replaces the Saturn project and aims to make space travel more efficient and affordable. The Shuttle is described as a hybrid between a rocket and a jet plane, capable of functioning in both atmospheric and vacuum environments. It launches vertically, accelerates to orbital velocity, and then re-enters the atmosphere to land like a conventional aircraft.

The article breaks down the Shuttle's components:

1. Orbiter: The main part, resembling a fly, carrying fuel for atmospheric flight and descent. It is 38 meters long with a 24-meter wingspan.
2. External Fuel Tank: The largest and heaviest component, holding liquid oxygen and hydrogen. It is jettisoned after reaching orbit.
3. Solid Rocket Boosters: Two large rockets providing initial thrust for launch. They are discarded after burnout.

The article details the Orbiter's systems, including its engines, maneuvering thrusters, and orientation control. It also describes the cargo bay, which can accommodate payloads up to 30 tons for launch and 18 tons for re-entry. The external fuel tank is highlighted as a disposable component, with a significant cost associated with its production and replacement.

Science and Space Travel: Mercury

A section on "Videnskab og rumfart" features a mosaic image of Mercury, the innermost planet of our solar system. The caption notes that the images were taken by the Mariner 10 probe six hours after passing the planet at a distance of 210,000 kilometers. It points out a large ray crater on the northern hemisphere and smaller features near the equator.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO-NYT strongly focuses on UFO sightings and unexplained aerial phenomena, presenting detailed eyewitness accounts and photographic evidence. The magazine also covers advancements in space exploration, particularly NASA's Space Shuttle program, and astronomical observations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into UFO phenomena, presenting evidence and commentary that leans towards the possibility of non-terrestrial origins for some sightings, while also providing factual information on scientific endeavors like space travel. The inclusion of a directory for UFO publications suggests a commitment to fostering a community of researchers and enthusiasts.

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 4-74
Date: April 1974
Publisher: SUFOI
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of UFO-NYT delves into the technical aspects of the Shuttle project, discusses SUFOI's internal affairs and activities, and reports on UFO sightings and related research.

The Shuttle Project

The article "Shuttlen i Funktion" (The Shuttle in Function) provides a detailed description of the Space Shuttle's mission profile. It outlines the launch sequence, including the role of solid rocket boosters and the main fuel tank, and the speeds and altitudes achieved during ascent. The process of booster separation and their descent into the ocean is described, along with their recovery and refurbishment. The article then details the Shuttle's orbital phase, the jettisoning of the fuel tank, and the re-entry into Earth's atmosphere. The extreme temperatures encountered during re-entry are highlighted, emphasizing the importance of the Shuttle's heat-resistant shielding. The final stage of re-entry and landing at approximately 280 km/h is also covered. The Shuttle is described as a ferry vehicle for cargo and people, designed for missions lasting about a week.

"Prøveflyvning" (Test Flights) discusses the anticipated test flights of the Orbiter, constructed by North American Rockwell, starting in early 1977. These flights will progress from atmospheric tests to vertical take-offs with and without crew. NASA has commissioned Boeing and Lockheed Aircraft to develop transport aircraft capable of carrying the Orbiter and its large fuel tank between landing sites and mission launch points. Boeing proposes a modified Boeing 747, while Lockheed suggests a modified C-5A transport plane, with the Orbiter mounted on top.

Future plans for the Shuttle include approximately 40 to 50 missions annually, carrying up to 1000 tons of payload to satellite orbits and retrieving significant amounts of cargo. The article acknowledges that figures may change as the project evolves.

SUFOI Activities and News

Under the heading "Medlemsorientering" (Member Information), SUFOI provides updates on its work. The organization is seeking volunteers to assist with translating materials from/to French, German, English, Portuguese, Spanish, and Finnish. They are also looking for members to help recruit new readers for UFO-NYT.

A "Biblioteksundersøgelsen" (Library Research Project) is underway, involving visits to Danish libraries to catalog UFO literature. Volunteers are needed to visit their local libraries and fill out a questionnaire.

The "PR/Informationsafdelingen" (PR/Information Department) is also seeking participants, particularly in the Greater Copenhagen area. The average age of members in Gentofte is around 30.

SUFOI is organizing a larger member meeting in Copenhagen on October 25th (Friday), which will include presentations from the organization's leadership and a guest speaker. Exhibitions showcasing SUFOI's activities are also planned.

The "SUFOI's Støttefond" (SUFOI's Support Fund) is highlighted, a fund established in 1957 to support the organization's UFO research through voluntary contributions. An address for donations is provided.

The "Vandreudstillingen" (Traveling Exhibition) has been touring Danish libraries for 1.5 years, with a schedule of upcoming locations listed for July through December.

Information is provided on how to obtain back issues of UFO-NYT, with 1969 issues being partially sold out and complete years from 1970 onwards available at reduced prices.

A press release dated June 20th is summarized, discussing UFO observations in 1973. Out of approximately 500 reports received, 211 were deemed significant enough for detailed reports, with 100 remaining unidentified after investigation. Six of these were from Norway and one from Sweden.

Details are given for "UFO-grupperne" (UFO Groups), with addresses to be revised and published in the next issue. The "Studiekredsbladet" (Study Circle Magazine) is promoted as a publication for groups interested in UFO research.

Changes within SUFOI are noted: Gunnar Weichardt has stepped down from his role as treasurer due to increased workload. Erik Benny Johansen has taken over the Expedition role, and Allan Stenaa has also joined the board. Knud Düring Petersen is now in charge of the Photo Department, and Flemming Ahrenkiel is the new Editor-in-Chief of UFO-NYT.

SUFOI offers lectures and slide shows for local clubs and organizations, and their slide series can be rented.

UFO Photos

The magazine offers a collection of 10 "genuine UFO photos" (format approx. 13x18 cm) with an explanatory booklet for 25 Danish Kroner. While SUFOI cannot guarantee the authenticity of all photos, they are considered among the best and most reliable, including the famous Trinidade and Rex Heflin photos.

Book Promotion

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to promoting Dr. J. Allen Hynek's book, "UFO-Dokumentation og Vurdering" (UFO Documentation and Evaluation). The book is described as an indispensable work for UFO enthusiasts, featuring 256 illustrated pages and a publication date of approximately September 1st. A special pre-order price of 48.50 Kroner (including shipping) is offered to members, representing a 30% saving on the bookstore price of 68.50 Kroner. Hynek is lauded as the world's foremost expert on the subject, known for his clear and understandable writing style.

Skylab Observation

The article "UFO? Nej, Skylab!" (UFO? No, Skylab!) reports on an observation made on September 5, 1973. Professor E. Penzel of the Smithsonian's Astrophysical Observatory received a photograph from a Moonwatch team in the German Democratic Republic showing Skylab 1 under unusual circumstances. A camera with a 240mm telephoto lens captured a brief, intense brightening of Skylab 1, lasting only 0.94 seconds. This significant increase in brightness was unprecedented for Skylab observations at the Smithsonian.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO-NYT demonstrates a strong focus on providing detailed, factual information about aerospace technology, particularly the Shuttle program, while also maintaining a commitment to investigating and reporting on UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of scientific inquiry, seeking explanations for sightings while acknowledging the existence of unexplained cases. SUFOI actively engages its members, encouraging participation in research, translation, and outreach efforts. The promotion of Dr. Hynek's book suggests an emphasis on rigorous analysis and documentation within the field of UFO studies. The inclusion of the Skylab incident, initially presented as a potential UFO but ultimately identified as the space station itself, reflects a balanced approach to reporting, distinguishing between genuine unknowns and misidentifications.