UFO Nyt - No 1 jan-feb 1977

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO NYT
Issue: 1
Volume: 19. årg.
Date: January/February 1977
Publisher: SKANDINAVISK UFO INFORMATION
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of UFO NYT, published by Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI), focuses on UFO phenomena and related investigations. The cover headline asks, "1976 is over... what will 1977 bring?", suggesting a look back at the past year and anticipation for the new one.

SUFOI and its Mission

SUFOI is a self-governing institution aiming to disseminate knowledge about UFOs through publications, lectures, and other activities. It is led by a Business Committee elected by a Representative Council. The magazine emphasizes that articles published in UFO-NYT represent contributions to the understanding of UFO research and do not necessarily reflect SUFOI's official stance.

Editorial and Business Information

The issue provides contact details for the Business Committee and the Representative Council, including the editor-in-chief, Iver O. Kjems, and the chairman, Flemming Ahrenkiel. It also lists various departments within SUFOI, such as the Report Central, Alarm Center, Investigation Department, Information Department, Lecture Department, and Archive/Clipping Center, with contact persons for each.

Subscription information is provided, with the annual fee for 1977 set at DKK 60.00. Readers are encouraged to pay via giro or at post offices. The magazine also mentions a special publication titled "Three UFO Articles" to be released in the spring.

Key Articles and Reports

"1976 is over... what will 1977 bring?" (Editorial)

This editorial reflects on the past year, noting that 1976 did not bring the expected major UFO revelations or alien contacts. However, it highlights a positive trend with increased media interest and a more objective approach to UFO phenomena. The article mentions astronomer Henrik Stub recommending SUFOI. The organization experienced financial difficulties in 1976 but remains optimistic. For 1977, UFO-NYT promises exciting content, including discussions on extraterrestrial intelligence, contact attempts, results from Viking 1 and 2 Mars missions, and various UFO observations from around the world. It also plans to cover J. Allen Hynek's "Center for UFO Studies" in the USA, astronaut observations, and close encounters.

"Air Force Chiefs Admit: We Tracked a UFO on Radar and Scrambled Jet Fighters"

This article reports on a significant admission by the North American Air Defense Command (NORAD) that they detected an unidentified flying object (UFO) on radar and dispatched two F-106 fighter jets to intercept it on November 11, 1975. The incident occurred over Ontario, Canada. Despite the jets failing to make contact, multiple witnesses, including police officers and military personnel from NORAD's radar base at Falconbridge, reported observing strange lights. Captain Cordon Hilchie, NORAD's press officer, stated this was the first time NORAD officially acknowledged tracking a UFO simultaneously with civilian reports. Lieutenant Colonel Brian Wooding confirmed that this was the only instance where they had decided to scramble jets based on a radar track. The article notes that since the discontinuation of Project Blue Book in 1969, the Pentagon had denied radar tracking or jet scrambles for UFOs. The UFO was tracked for several hours, ascending rapidly and reaching high altitudes. Reports from civilians in Sudbury described the lights moving erratically and at high speed.

"Observations: Astonished Air Traffic Controllers Saw a UFO Fly After an Army Helicopter"

This report details an incident on August 14, 1975, near Stockton, California, where a glowing UFO reportedly followed a National Guard helicopter. Major Claude Riddle, the pilot, described the object as disc-shaped, emitting an intense orange glow, and moving with incredible speed. Air traffic controllers at Stockton Airport also observed the UFO, which ascended to 18,000 meters and disappeared. The article also briefly mentions another incident from four days prior, where a strange craft reportedly hovered over a car and then a house, frightening two young women.

"Johnny Sands' Observation"

This article recounts an alleged close encounter by Johnny Sands, a country singer, near Las Vegas, Nevada, on January 29, 1976. Sands reported his car stalling, after which he observed a large, disc-shaped craft with a ring and windows. He then encountered two humanoid figures described as bald, with gill-like growths, small dark eyes with white centers, and small mouths. The humanoids communicated with Sands, asking him about his activities and warning him not to reveal the details of their meeting. Sands underwent a polygraph test administered by Robert L. Nolen, which indicated he was truthful in his answers regarding the encounter. The article notes that the figures were approximately 170-175 cm tall and wore black, silver suits. A film crew's involvement in the aftermath of the incident is also mentioned, with Sands suspecting he may have been drugged.

"More Trust in UFO Landing"

This brief report mentions that the British bookmaker firm Ladbrokes significantly reduced its odds for a UFO landing or crash, from 100-1 to 40-1. This change was attributed to a sudden surge in betting interest from a large group of people in El Cajon, California.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO sightings, radar detections, and close encounters, often featuring reports of military involvement and descriptions of alleged alien beings. There is a clear emphasis on presenting these accounts as credible phenomena worthy of investigation. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness and a desire to document and understand UFO events, encouraging reader participation and support for SUFOI's research efforts. The magazine also touches upon the broader context of UFO research, including historical projects like Blue Book and the work of organizations like APRO and Hynek's Center for UFO Studies.

This issue of "UFO Rapporter" from Denmark, identified as issue 1-77, covers a period of observations primarily from 1975 and 1976, with a notable historical case from 1966. The magazine focuses on UFO sightings and related phenomena reported by witnesses across Scandinavia, including Denmark, Sweden, and Finland, with a special feature on a photograph from England.

Reports from Denmark

The issue begins with a summary of recent observations, noting a quiet period with only 28 filled questionnaires received. Several reports are detailed:

• September 16, 1975, 01:55 AM (approx. 5 seconds) in Hillerød: An observer reported seeing 6-9 mathvid lights in a boomerang formation through a window. Upon opening the window, a "glider-like" sound was heard, and the boomerang-shaped object was clearly visible for about 5 seconds before disappearing. The observer estimated the object's size to be about 10 meters wide and its distance to be around 300 meters.

• September 23, 1975, 04:00 AM (approx. 2 hours) near Vemmelev: While driving towards Helsingør, the observer noticed a bright, lamp-like object to the right of the road, resembling a halogen lamp used on construction sites. The object followed the car, matching its speed, even when the car accelerated. The observer tried flashing the lights, but the object did not react. The object then crossed the road and followed on the right side towards Roskilde and then Slangerup. The observer felt a "contact" with the object and noted it maintained a consistent speed relative to the car. The object was described as having an ellipse-like shape, with a slightly larger base than the object itself, and a small white light at the top. The observer estimated its size to be about 9 meters wide, not wider than the road.

• October 1, 1976, 05:45 PM (approx. 5 minutes) in Birkerød: The reporter, their father, and three children observed an object from their garden. The father first noticed a silhouette against the twilight sky. As the object ascended, it became less distinct but was noted for a strongly luminous tail. The object was observed to be stationary for about 5 minutes before ascending again. It disappeared behind a cloud around 6 PM.

• October 10, 1976, 05:10 PM (approx. 10-15 seconds) in Svenstrup: While in a summer house, the observer noticed a cigar-shaped object with a bright, bluish glow and a slight yellow-orange hue. A faint whistling sound was heard, which stopped as the object changed shape, described as resembling a jellyfish. The object was estimated to be about 5 centimeters in size when measured with an outstretched arm.

Reports from Sweden

The "Scandi-rapport" section, compiled by Carsten Pedersen, features reports from Sweden and Finland.

• Remarkable UFO Phenomenon Observed near Åreskutan (January 7, 1976): Jenny Nordin and Lage Nordström observed UFO phenomena for nearly two hours from a high-altitude holiday home, eliminating theories of misinterpretation of high-altitude light phenomena. They reported seeing a luminous, blinking object in the forest, estimated to be about two meters in size. Initially triangular, it later appeared rectangular with a pointed top, surrounded by a band of lights. Later, a large, oval object with three very large windows appeared, emitting a white "gas cloud." This object was observed for about 40 seconds and estimated to be at least 50 meters in diameter. The smaller, rectangular object remained visible for a few minutes longer before both disappeared without being seen leaving.

• "Framed" Flashes near Ålabodana (August 7, 1976, 09:00 PM - 15 minutes): An observer and a witness from Copenhagen reported seeing an object moving parallel to a ridge. The object disappeared behind trees and reappeared further away. The observed phenomenon consisted of flashes within an elliptical frame, described as rapid, short, diffuse blue-white flashes of irregular duration and intensity. The witness perceived the object as having a zig-zag course, while the observer believed it moved on a straight course. Both agreed it was not a natural phenomenon.

• UFOs Landing and Taking Off in Kalix, Northern Sweden: The report mentions mysterious events in the Luleå area, with Kalix being particularly affected by luminous objects. UFOs reportedly landed in a field, illuminating the area and leaving solid imprints from landing gear and rocket motors, creating a large circle in the grass. This occurred on November 15, 1976. Swedish experts collected soil samples from the circle. The report also mentions a 19-year-old man in Uleåborg, Finland, who was knocked unconscious by a beam from a luminous object.

Report from Finland

• Uleåborg Incident (November 15, 1976): A 19-year-old named Eero Lammi was investigating two strongly luminous objects that had landed in an industrial area. Accompanied by five friends, they observed two luminous spheres, each about 1.5 meters in diameter, emitting beams of light. Eero approached one of the spheres and was hit by a beam, causing him to collapse with chest pain. He was later examined by doctors who found red marks on his chest and back. The incident is compared to a similar phenomenon, a "witch's ring," observed on an island near Vestlandet.

The Conisbrough Photograph

This section details a UFO photograph taken in Conisbrough, Yorkshire, England, on March 28, 1966, by Stephen C. Pratt when he was 15 years old.

• The Observation: Stephen Pratt and his mother observed a clear, pulsating, red/orange light in the overcast sky. The light moved slowly downwards, then upwards, and then across the sky. His father and two brothers were called to witness it. They used a Kodak Instamatic 50 camera with a "cloudy weather" setting. The photograph was taken around 8:00-8:15 PM.

• Photographic Analysis: The developed film revealed that one negative, described as almost transparent, showed "spots" resembling "flying saucers" in a trailing line. The photograph was sent to Granada Television Studios, which broadcast it on April 12, 1966. The "Sun Newspaper" also featured the photo. The witnesses were reluctant to comment further to reporters.

• Expert Opinions: The photograph was examined by numerous experts, including Dr. G. G. Doel (a London specialist and former head of the British Unidentified Flying Obj. Research Association), who found no evidence of forgery. Kodak experts also deemed it genuine. Mr. C. Maxwell Cade, from the Institute of Physics, was convinced of its authenticity. The British U.F.O. Research Association also considered the photograph "completely authentic" and an "extraordinary phenomenon."

• Possible Explanations: The article discusses potential explanations, including the object being camouflaged by matching the sky's light or using ultraviolet radiation. It also notes that if the light source were a distant streetlamp, the object would appear much smaller and potentially invisible. The photograph was sent to Dr. G.G. Doel for further analysis and was recognized as a valuable piece of evidence.

• Related Observation (October 1, 1967): The issue also includes a report from "South Yorkshire Times" about Harold Coles, a retired miner, who observed a clear red light moving slowly in the sky near Conisbrough. He stated that if it had been a low-flying aircraft, he would have heard engine noise. This report is noted as being very similar to a report by Stephen Kind.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed documentation of UFO sightings, the analysis of photographic evidence, and the persistent nature of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and open-mindedness towards UFO reports, encouraging readers to report their own observations and supporting UFO research. The magazine aims to present credible accounts and photographic evidence, while also exploring potential explanations and the scientific community's reactions to such phenomena.

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 1-77
Date: January 1977
Publisher: SUFOI (Skandinavisk UFO Information)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of UFO-NYT, a Danish publication focused on UFO phenomena, features a prominent article exploring the potential connection between UFO observations and the formation of religious sects. It also includes various news items related to space exploration and reader contributions.

Article: Er UFO-observation grundlag for religiøs sekt? (Are UFO Observations the Basis for a Religious Sect?)

This in-depth article by Per Andersen investigates whether UFO sightings can serve as the foundation for religious movements, using the founding of the Mormon Church by Joseph Smith as a central case study. Andersen posits that Smith's first 'religious experience' in 1820, where he claimed to see a pillar of light and two divine beings, could be interpreted as a UFO observation.

Smith, who was 15 at the time, was living in a religiously fragmented society and was seeking spiritual truth. The article suggests that his intense desire to find 'truth' led him to interpret an unusual phenomenon as a divine message, providing him with a firm spiritual footing. This interpretation is supported by comparing Smith's account to a UFO sighting reported in Sweden in 1959 by Gideon Johansson, which involved a hovering luminous object with beings inside.

Andersen questions whether Smith's subsequent 'revelations' were also UFO observations or fabricated to maintain his religious standing. He notes that while spontaneous UFO observations are rare for the same individual, Smith reported multiple experiences. The article also touches upon the idea that UFOs might be a timeless phenomenon, with early observers lacking modern explanations like 'flying saucers' or 'weather balloons' and thus attributing them to divine intervention.

The article further discusses how some modern theories suggest that UFOs could be demonic attempts to mislead people, but the author leans towards ufology as a more fitting explanation for such 'celestial revelations'.

Joseph Smith's own words are quoted, describing his vision and the persecution he faced for sharing it, drawing parallels to the skepticism often faced by UFO researchers today. The article acknowledges the social and religious context of Smith's youth, highlighting the intense religious fervor and division that may have influenced his interpretations.

Reader Letters and SUFOI Responses

H. Højgaard (Søborg)
H. Højgaard expresses appreciation for the magazine but requests that reports from Norway be translated into Danish, as reading them in Norwegian takes longer. He praises the quality and depth of the articles.

SUFOI's Response: SUFOI explains that UFO-NYT has a significant readership in Norway (about 10% of sales) and that including Norwegian reports is an effort to cater to this audience, as requested by Norwegian readers. They acknowledge that it may be slightly more difficult for Danish readers but hope the explanation is sufficient.

Torsten T. Jensen (Sønderborg)
Torsten T. Jensen inquires about the meaning of 'astral projection' mentioned in an article and asks about SUFOI's stance on hypnosis results in relation to UFO phenomena.

SUFOI's Response: SUFOI briefly defines astral projection as the soul leaving the body during sleep to travel, originating from occult, spiritualist, and theosophical traditions. Regarding hypnosis, SUFOI expresses strong interest in its potential to confirm UFO cases but notes they have not yet found a suitable hypnotist to conduct such tests. They also state that they are investigating the problem of whether lies can be repeated under hypnosis.

L. Berg (Silkeborg)
L. Berg asks about the status of a color photo of a supposed UFO taken during the 'Mainbrace' naval exercise in 1952. He also suggests the creation of a UFO-type poster and inquires about theories linking German scientists to UFOs, referencing books by Birgit Thiede and Michael X. Barton.

SUFOI's Response: SUFOI confirms they have seen the 'Mainbrace' photo, which depicts a ship and a sky object, but cannot publish it without photographer permission. They also state that printing color photos in UFO-NYT is technically difficult. Regarding the German UFO theories, SUFOI states that while interesting, they are largely based on secondary sources like Rudolf Lussar's book and lack concrete evidence, leading SUFOI to focus on other research areas.

Other News and Notes

SUFOI's New Geiger Counter: SUFOI is fundraising for a geiger counter, a crucial piece of technical equipment for their work. They express gratitude for the donations received so far and encourage further contributions.

UFO-NYT Year 1976: The 1976 issues are nearly sold out, with the first issue of that year expected to be gone soon. Readers are urged to order any missing issues.

New X-ray Source: A new phenomenon, 'double pulsars,' emitting X-rays with a unique intensity variation, has been discovered in space, observed in connection with globular star clusters.

First Space Shuttle Prototype Ready: The construction of the first Orbiter prototype, designated 'Orbiter 101,' is complete. It is part of a larger project involving rockets and an external fuel tank. The Orbiter measures 23.5 meters from wingtip to wingtip and is 37 meters long. Unmanned test flights are scheduled for March-April 1977, with manned missions beginning in May 1977.

Water on Mars: The American Viking 2 spacecraft has revealed that the Martian polar ice caps are entirely covered in ice, suggesting that water once flowed on Mars. This discovery challenges previous theories about the composition of the ice caps and indicates that Mars may have had more water than Earth at one point.

Salyut 5 and Soyuz 21: The Soviet space station Salyut 5 and the Soyuz 21 spacecraft successfully docked, with cosmonauts conducting experiments, including melting and solidifying metals. The cosmonauts returned safely to Earth.

LUNA 24: The Soviet Luna 24 probe soft-landed on the Moon and returned a surface sample from a depth of 2 meters to Earth for analysis.

VIKING 1: The first Viking lander touched down on Mars and began transmitting color images of the surface. An analysis of a soil sample revealed an unexpectedly high level of oxygen release, leading scientists to consider the possibility of biological activity, though a chemical reaction was also a plausible explanation.

VIKING 2: Viking 2 landed on Mars and began its excavation and analysis of Martian soil.

Lava on Venus: Radar observations of Venus have provided detailed images of its surface, revealing features that suggest lava flows, basins similar to the Moon's 'maria,' and mountain-forming activity. The Arecibo radar telescope was able to penetrate Venus's dense cloud cover to achieve these photographic-like images.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of UFO-NYT include the intersection of UFO phenomena with religion and belief systems, the ongoing scientific exploration of space, and the reporting of specific UFO sightings. SUFOI, as the publisher, appears to maintain an open but critical stance towards UFO evidence, actively investigating claims while also seeking rigorous proof and scientific explanations. The magazine also demonstrates a commitment to its international readership, particularly in Scandinavia, by including reports in multiple languages or translating them.

This issue of UFO-NYT, dated 1-77 (January 1977), focuses on the search for commonalities in UFO observations and explores various aspects of the UFO phenomenon. The cover headline, 'En søgen efter fællestræk i observationer' (A search for common features in observations), sets the theme for the issue.

Article 1: A Search for Common Features in Observations

This article by Joan Crexells discusses the current state of UFO research, noting a perceived 'dead end' in earlier efforts. It highlights the emergence of constants such as nocturnal light phenomena, sightings of crews, and recurring patterns in UFO observations, suggesting a growing incongruence in descriptions over time. The author posits that the extraterrestrial hypothesis remains valid, as UFOs do not appear to be mere ghosts or wandering souls. The article emphasizes that while specific details of craft and occupants vary, their forms and maneuvers exhibit a defined constancy. It notes that UFOs are described as solid objects, not fluid, and do not exhibit violent shaking during atmospheric passage. The author also touches upon the difficulty of translating observations into conventional language and the possibility that UFOs might be 'disguising' themselves or presenting different intelligences. The article questions why UFOs seem to prefer nights and uninhabited areas, yet a high percentage of landings occur near rural districts.

Article 2: UFO-Sveriges Convention in Malmö

This is an announcement for the Swedish UFO Organization's convention on March 19th in Malmö, Sweden. It invites Danish friends and mentions speakers like Bertil Falk, who will discuss teleportation and the Philadelphia Experiment, and Professor Martin Johnson, who will present a new contribution to UFO research. The event includes a panel discussion and has an entrance fee of 15 Swedish Kronor.

Article 3: Arabisk UFO-landing (Arabian UFO Landing)

This article, based on a report from Gordon Creighton of Flying Saucer Review, details an incident in Yemen. Mullah Umar Siddiq, a priest, along with merchant Ibrahim Khaleb and doctor Mohammed Watif, witnessed three large, white, disk-shaped objects descend into Wadi Jawlan on February 8, 1974. The objects were described as having a constant form and maneuverability. After landing, the men investigated the site, finding unusual, deeply impressed tracks suggesting heavy vehicles, along with crushed volcanic tuff. They also discovered three triangular markings, each about 5.3 meters in side length, with 85 cm deep indentations at their centers. The rock in these areas showed signs of melting, and the surrounding vegetation was burnt. Wolfgang Appel, the author, visited the site and confirmed the strange markings. He sent a report to NASA but received no reply. The article concludes by noting that the location was inaccessible by conventional vehicles, suggesting a need for a helicopter or a spacecraft.

Article 4: UFO Pictures from Canada

This article reports on a sighting by 19-year-old Pat McCarthy in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, on March 18, 1975. While looking for hawks, McCarthy observed a strange, fast-moving object and managed to photograph it four times. The object was described as moving too quickly to be a bird. After the film was developed, McCarthy realized he had captured the object. The article includes a diagram showing the object's flight path. The object's size was estimated to be about twice that of a DC-8, based on McCarthy's knowledge of aircraft and cloud formations at an altitude of 4500-6000 meters. The photographs, enlarged to 20x24 cm, show a small, disk-shaped object with a dome. The article also mentions similar disk-shaped objects photographed by Helio Aguiar in Brazil in April 1959, noting similarities in shape but differences in the visibility of the underside.

Article 5: Commentary on Dr. Vallee's UFO Hypothesis

Written by Jon-Ingar Haltuff, this article critiques Jacques Vallee's hypothesis presented in 'The Invisible College.' Haltuff questions the book's convincing nature and offers his own thoughts. He discusses the concept of an 'Invisible College' of scientists conducting UFO research privately. The author highlights Vallee's close association with Dr. J. Allen Hynek and their joint book, 'On the Edge of Reality,' which explores the seemingly 'absurd' behavior of UFOs. Haltuff argues that UFOs do not behave as expected from visitors from other planets, citing instances of landings near cultivated fields, collection of samples, and apparent 'emergency landings' or repairs. He draws parallels to the 'airship' sightings in the US in 1896-1897, where mysterious craft were reported. The article suggests that UFOs might be a terrestrial phenomenon that adapts its appearance over time, possibly related to the paranormal or extrasensory. It questions why UFOs would need to 'land' for repairs if they possess advanced technology and have been around for millennia. The author also explores the idea of 'parallel worlds' as a possible explanation, as proposed by Hynek and Vallee. The article touches upon the symbolic and seemingly absurd nature of many UFO experiences, suggesting that UFOs might communicate through symbols rather than direct language. It references Aime Michel's work on the symbolic aspect of UFO observations and the difficulty witnesses have in photographing them, implying possible psychic control by the UFOs. The article also connects UFO reports to folklore, comparing them to tales of 'small men,' elves, and 'hulderfolk,' suggesting a continuity of these phenomena throughout history.

Article 6: UFO Bibliography

This section announces the publication of UFORALIA nr. 3/1976, a special issue serving as a bibliography of Scandinavian UFO literature from 1950-1975. Compiled by Willy Wegner, it includes books and periodicals from Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, with entries detailing author, publisher, year, and page count. Wegner notes the difficulty in collecting periodicals, some of which may be from the early, naive days of UFO research.

Article 7: What Was It? (100 Years Ago)

This short piece recounts a strange sighting from January 6, 1875, near Nørre Skjoldborg, Denmark. A burning light was observed for about half an hour, flaring up and then fading, before rising high with a loud noise and exploding in a column of fire. Despite a thorough investigation of the site, no trace of the phenomenon was found. The local newspaper suggested it might have been a 'falling star' or a 'fireball'.

Article 8: Book Review: Eugen Semitjov's 'De otroliga tefaten' (The Incredible Flying Saucers)

This review discusses Eugen Semitjov's book, which is described as an 'anti-UFO' work. The reviewer acknowledges Semitjov's reputation as a science journalist but criticizes his approach as less sober than other skeptics like Menzel and Klass, providing fewer sources. The review notes that Semitjov dismisses various UFO reports, including those from Russia and the famous Lifjell film from Norway, as misidentifications or natural phenomena. The reviewer points out that Semitjov seems more interested in 'classical riddles' like the Tunguska event and the disappearance of Sodom and Gomorrah than in well-documented UFO cases. The review also criticizes the book for including general space-related content and photos of astronauts, while omitting significant UFO evidence, such as James E. McDivitt's photo of an unknown object. Semitjov's visit to the Lorenzen family in the USA is also mentioned.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the analysis of UFO sighting patterns, the debate between the extraterrestrial hypothesis and terrestrial explanations, the potential link between UFO phenomena and folklore, and the critical examination of UFO reports. The magazine appears to maintain an open, yet critical, stance towards UFO research, presenting various viewpoints and evidence while also highlighting skepticism and alternative interpretations. There is a clear emphasis on seeking commonalities and understanding the phenomenon's adaptability across different contexts and historical periods. The editorial stance seems to favor rigorous investigation and a willingness to consider unconventional explanations, including paranormal and folkloric connections, while also acknowledging the importance of physical evidence and scientific scrutiny.

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 1-77
Date: 1977
Publisher: SUFOI (The Danish UFO Organization)
Language: Danish

This issue of UFO-NYT delves into various aspects of UFO research and skepticism, featuring a detailed review of Eugen Semitjov's book, discussions on historical UFO cases, and an advertisement for a new book aimed at countering skepticism.

Review of Eugen Semitjov's Book

The central piece of this issue is a review of a book by Eugen Semitjov, who is presented as a leader of APRO, one of the world's oldest UFO organizations. The reviewer, Ole Henningsen, critically examines Semitjov's work, which covers topics such as the Ubatuba magnesium, interviews with officials at the Pentagon, and his visit to Project Bluebook in Dayton, Ohio.

Semitjov's interview with a Pentagon officer is described as receiving a dismissive response: "that one naturally hid nothing about UFOs, and that it was all just gas." His visit to Project Bluebook involved an interview with Major Hector Quintanilla, who was known for his policy of "debunking and ridicule." Quintanilla stated his job was to ensure that the phenomena were not from other countries or foreign weapons, emphasizing that interpretation is key and that people often speak the truth about what they saw but do not know what it is.

The reviewer notes that Semitjov's approach seems to be to "make himself important" to his superiors but also to "laugh a little" at UFO reports, citing an example of a UFO photo where the car's brand on the hubcap was identified. The reviewer expresses concern that Semitjov's book might be imprecise and omit crucial facts.

Semitjov's investigation also included an interview with astronomer Clyde Tombaugh, the discoverer of Pluto, who had an observation in New Mexico in 1949. Tombaugh denied seeing a cigar-shaped object with windows, and while he didn't offer a direct explanation, his book references Donald H. Menzel's explanations involving mirror images and reflections.

The book also touches upon humanoid encounters, referencing films like "The Day the Earth Stood Still" and "War of the Worlds." A significant portion is dedicated to the Antonio Villas Boas case, involving an alleged abduction and encounter with an alien woman. The review also covers the well-known Betty and Barney Hill case, where the couple was reportedly taken aboard a craft in 1961 and later recalled the events through hypnosis. The reviewer suggests that a TV film made about this case in the USA should be shown in Denmark.

Additionally, the issue discusses an observation made from the supersonic Concorde during the solar eclipse on June 30, 1973. While Institut d'Astrophysique in Paris suggested it was a meteor, SUFOI has a different understanding, and the reviewer notes that Semitjov's account of this event contains numerous errors.

Critique of Semitjov's Methods and UFO Photography

The review continues by mentioning George Adamski and the old story about a gas lamp from Berlin, which photographer Harry Hasso claimed resembled Adamski's UFO photos. The reviewer points out that the specific lamp has not been found and that other lamps presented by Hasso do not strongly resemble Adamski's alleged spaceship photos. The reviewer calls for better documentation if the gas lamp connection is to be taken seriously.

Most of the photos and drawings in Semitjov's book are attributed to him. The cover image, showing three red, diffuse "UFOs" over Stockholm, is explained as a simple trick: small red cardboard pieces glued to a windowpane, photographed with a long exposure of the background, followed by a flash to illuminate the cardboard "UFOs." Semitjov himself reportedly states that this is how easy it is to take UFO pictures.

The reviewer implies that Semitjov's conclusions might have been reached in a similarly "easy" manner. While the book is considered informative for UFO enthusiasts, it is seen as potentially misleading for newcomers. The reviewer notes the book's global scope but laments the lack of coverage of serious Swedish UFO researchers who have moved beyond a purely sectarian approach.

Semitjov concludes his book by wishing all UFO organizations success, stating that finding a real alien spacecraft would be the greatest sensation in human history. However, he also warns that if such a craft landed, it would likely disappear in a jungle of misinterpretations, bluff, and fantasies.

Advertisement for "3 UFO ARTIKLER"

The magazine also promotes a new book titled "3 UFO ARTIKLER" (3 UFO ARTICLES). This book is described as a collection of lectures by three recognized scientists who spoke at the Eastern UFO Symposium in Baltimore, USA. The speakers are Professor Theodore Spickler on UFOs and ball lightning, Engineer Thomas Olsen on report material, and Dr. Berthold E. Schwarz on UFO observers. The book also includes contributions from figures like Professor Allen Hynek and Coral Lorenzen, editor of APRO Bulletin. It is presented as a valuable resource against skepticism, costing 60 Danish Kroner plus postage.

Astronomical Information

E. Amby Knudsen provides a section on planet positions for mid-April, listing the approximate rising and setting times for Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn, along with their constellations. It also notes that the only lunar eclipse visible in Denmark in 1977 will occur on April 4th, with a partial covering of the Moon's diameter.

Cover Art and Slogan

The back cover features a cartoon-like illustration of a flying saucer and a figure in a spacesuit, with a newsstand in the background. The slogan reads: "- Have you not any of the fun ones from Däniken?"

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO investigations, the critical analysis of UFO evidence and claims, and the ongoing debate between believers and skeptics. The magazine, through its review and the advertisement for "3 UFO ARTIKLER," appears to lean towards a critical examination of UFO phenomena, while also providing resources for those interested in the subject. There is a clear emphasis on the need for rigorous evidence and a cautious approach to sensational claims, as exemplified by the critique of Semitjov's book and photography methods. The editorial stance seems to be one of informed skepticism, encouraging serious research while debunking less substantiated claims.