AI Magazine Summary
UFO Nyt - No 1 jan-feb 1978
AI-Generated Summary
Title: UFO-NYT Issue: 1 Volume: 20 Date: January/February 1978 Publisher: SKANDINAVISK UFO INFORMATION (SUFOI) Country: Denmark Language: Danish
Magazine Overview
Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 1
Volume: 20
Date: January/February 1978
Publisher: SKANDINAVISK UFO INFORMATION (SUFOI)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
Exhibition: "20 Years with UFOs"
This issue of UFO-NYT extensively covers the "20 Years with UFOs" exhibition, which marked SUFOI's 20th anniversary. Held at Copenhagen City Hall from November 24 to December 3, 1977, the exhibition was a significant success, drawing considerable public interest. The event was opened by Gerda Louw Larsen, Chairperson of the Copenhagen City Council, who acknowledged the sober and objective presentation of the subject matter.
Flemming Ahrenkiel, SUFOI's chairman, expressed gratitude for the use of the City Hall and highlighted the positive reception and helpfulness encountered during the preparations. He stated that the exhibition aimed to provide visitors with an impression of SUFOI's work and the UFO phenomenon itself, hoping to offer a more nuanced understanding than what is often presented in the mass media. Ahrenkiel emphasized that SUFOI does not promote or dismiss any specific theories about UFOs, as the phenomenon remains unexplained.
The exhibition was the result of extensive, coordinated work by various SUFOI departments and area leaders. Technical designer Henrik Pedersen, the exhibition's coordinator, detailed the planning process, which involved defining 22 different areas related to UFO phenomena to be covered. These areas included SUFOI's purpose, handling of UFO reports, historical UFO cases, official investigations, astronaut sightings, media and government reactions, UFO detection technology, and statistical analyses.
Each section was delegated to individuals with expertise or a strong interest in the topic. The material was then compiled, edited, and organized into a cohesive presentation. The exhibition comprised 134 panels, each measuring 70 x 100 cm, featuring texts and illustrations mounted on black cardstock. The production required significant effort from photographers and graphic designers to ensure all elements could be integrated effectively.
Henrik Pedersen was lauded for his ideas and execution of the exhibition's design and logistics, working tirelessly to ensure its success. The exhibition was open to the public from November 25 to December 3, 1977, and experienced a strong turnout. Visitors included the general public, scientists, and pilots, all showing keen interest in the displayed materials.
- Key features of the exhibition included:
- A continuous slide show presentation in a small cinema, detailing significant UFO observations from Denmark and abroad.
- Displays on SUFOI's chairmen throughout its history, UFO-NYT, and its English-language newsletter.
- Information panels discussing various UFO theories.
- A crowded information desk where SUFOI representatives answered visitor questions.
- A display of UFO detectors, radios, and other technical observation equipment, including a working model of an automatic UFO alarm system developed by Bent Aalberg.
- A selection of books on UFOs published over the last 30 years.
- Screenings of the American documentary film "The Truth About Unidentified Flying Objects" (produced in 1956), which had not previously been shown in Denmark. The film included reconstructions of famous UFO observations and original footage.
The exhibition also received numerous greetings from national and international UFO organizations, including APRO, whose leaders Coral and Jim Lorenzen sent their congratulations. Representatives from various authorities, including the Danish military and police, attended, as did officials from embassies and the media.
SUFOI expressed its gratitude to the Copenhagen Municipality and the City Hall administration for their cooperation and for providing the venue. The organization is actively seeking opportunities to tour the exhibition in 1978 and 1979 and invites suggestions from the public on potential locations.
SUFOI's Mission and Operations
The article reiterates SUFOI's core mission: to collect and process UFO reports, treat the phenomenon scientifically, and disseminate information. It emphasizes that SUFOI's work is entirely voluntary and funded by subscriptions to UFO-NYT. The organization relies on the interest of its members and readers to sustain its operations.
SUFOI's definition of a UFO is a "flying object whose most significant characteristic is that, even after careful investigation by competent researchers, it cannot be explained as a known, natural phenomenon." The organization maintains a neutral stance on specific theories, focusing on the scientific investigation of the phenomenon.
Official Recognition and Support
A letter from Major K. Brøns-Hansen of the Danish Defence Command's Press and Information Service congratulates SUFOI on its 20th anniversary. He acknowledges the organization's voluntary work in collecting and processing UFO reports, stating that this effort has contributed to a more factual discussion about the presence of UFOs. He expresses admiration for SUFOI's work and reads UFO-NYT with interest.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
This issue strongly emphasizes SUFOI's 20th anniversary and the successful exhibition held to commemorate it. The editorial stance is one of objective investigation and information dissemination regarding UFO phenomena. SUFOI positions itself as a scientific research organization, relying on voluntary efforts and reader support. The magazine highlights the importance of factual reporting, careful analysis of UFO sightings, and maintaining a neutral stance on speculative theories. The issue also underscores the organization's commitment to public education and outreach, as demonstrated by the exhibition and the publication of UFO-NYT.
Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 1-78
Publication Date: January 1978 (based on issue number and content)
Publisher: SUFOI (Skandinavisk UFO Information)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
This issue of UFO-NYT, the official publication of SUFOI, focuses heavily on the organization's 20th-anniversary exhibition held at Copenhagen City Hall. It also delves into the history of UFO research in Denmark and presents several recent UFO sighting reports.
SUFOI's 20th Anniversary Exhibition
The magazine opens with coverage of SUFOI's jubilee exhibition, "20 years with UFOs," which received positive press. The exhibition, organized by SUFOI and the Copenhagen Municipal Council, featured over 100 posters of UFOs and aimed to present a more sophisticated understanding of the phenomenon, moving beyond the popular imagery of 'flying saucers and little green men.' SUFOI's chairman, civil engineer Flemming Ahrenkiel, defined a UFO as an 'unidentified flying object whose most significant characteristic is that even after careful investigation by competent researchers, it cannot be explained as a known, natural phenomenon.' He expressed hope that the exhibition would offer a more nuanced perspective.
The exhibition also included screenings of the American film "UFO," described as a documentary-style film featuring reconstructions of famous UFO observations. This was noted as the film's European premiere.
Critical Commentary and SUFOI's Response
A critical article by Tor Nørretranders in the newspaper INFORMATION is discussed. Nørretranders's piece is characterized as superficial and biased. SUFOI's chairman, Flemming Ahrenkiel, responded with a strong rebuttal, titled "URENT TRAV" (Unclean Work/Disturbance). Ahrenkiel criticized Nørretranders for misrepresenting the exhibition and for his seemingly dismissive attitude towards the subject matter. Ahrenkiel defended the inclusion of 'fantastic' elements in the exhibition, arguing that the UFO phenomenon itself contains such aspects. He also challenged Nørretranders's critique of the illustrations, particularly those by Henrik Pedersen, stating that the drawings were meant to illustrate observations, not to serve as definitive documentation, and that the demand for immediate, on-the-spot sketching was unreasonable.
Ahrenkiel also addressed Nørretranders's comments on statistics, particularly the correlation between UFO reports and unemployment rates, suggesting that Nørretranders's interpretation was speculative and lacked a proper understanding of statistical analysis.
History of UFO Research in Denmark
A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a two-part article by journalist Per Borgaard, titled "Danish Amateur Researchers Have Chased UFOs for 20 Years (Part I)." This article traces the origins of SUFOI, which began on December 15, 1957, at Flyvestation Skrydstrup, founded by a group of pilots. The article highlights the early influence of American astronomer J. Allen Hynek and his collaboration with the FBI. It notes the high number of reported UFO sightings in the USA, including by President Jimmy Carter.
A statistical analysis of UFO observations in Denmark is presented, showing a correlation with unemployment rates and a significant increase following the Sputnik launch in 1958. The article points out that UFO reports surged again in the 1973-75 period, coinciding with rising unemployment. It also identifies housewives, schoolchildren, and pensioners as groups with a high number of UFO sightings.
The article delves into the early days of SUFOI, initiated by pilots from Flyvestation Skrydstrup, led by Captain Lieutenant H. C. Petersen. Their initial goal was ambitious: to prove that extraterrestrial beings were visiting Denmark and to establish contact. The article mentions the influence of George Adamski and his claims of contact with beings from Venus and Saturn, which H. C. Petersen believed. It also touches upon the internal divisions within SUFOI between those who readily accepted spiritualistic and mystical explanations and those who sought scientific evidence.
The article recounts the 'Orthon' incident, where a group of followers of the 'Universal Link' predicted the end of the world, leading to a financial loss for believers and a significant blow to SUFOI's credibility. This event caused a split, with some members leaving and others advocating for a more skeptical approach.
UFO Sightings and Reports
The magazine includes several detailed UFO sighting reports from Denmark:
- September 7, 1977, Faroe Islands: Two strange, star-like celestial bodies were observed, one brighter than the other, with two fainter stars below each. The phenomenon lasted about half an hour.
- September 23, 1977, Asnæs: A 10-year-old boy reported seeing an object with a bright opening hovering 3-4 meters above a parking lot. The light swept over the tiles but did not hit the observer. The object disappeared before his friend and parents could see it clearly.
- September 23, 1977, Asnæs: Another report from Asnæs describes a reddish, bell-shaped object hovering and swaying 15-20 meters above the ground. The object disappeared without a sound.
- October 11, 1977, Slangerup: A four-light, rudely-shaped formation was observed moving very quickly for about 10 seconds. The lights were described as light orange and constant, with no sound heard.
- October 21, 1977, Gelsted: A report from a young man describes an object observed while harrowing, with a luminous connection.
Other Articles and Features
- Mexican Filmmakers Film UFOs Over Saltillo: This section discusses a 29-second 35mm color film of UFOs taken over Saltillo, Mexico. The article emphasizes the importance of evaluating the photographer or cameraman and notes the difficulty in detecting film tricks. The film was provided by Director Abel Salazar and cameraman Javier Cruz.
- Spaceflight News: Brief updates on space exploration are included, such as the Orbiter's first free flight, the Voyager 2 mission to explore Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune, and Italy's participation in space research with the SIRIO satellite.
- UFO Classification: A section explains SUFOI's classification system for UFO reports, based on the U.F.O. Close Encounters book, detailing categories from O.O. (Ordinary Observation) to C.E.-4 (Close Encounter involving intervention in human life).
- Membership Meetings: Announcements for upcoming SUFOI membership meetings in various locations across Denmark are listed, including dates, times, and venues.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently promotes the work of SUFOI and its commitment to investigating UFO phenomena. There is a clear emphasis on presenting UFO reports and historical research, while also engaging with public perception and media coverage. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry, aiming to move beyond sensationalism and towards a more evidence-based understanding of UFOs. The critique of Nørretranders's article highlights the magazine's defense of its research methods and its position against what it perceives as biased or uninformed reporting. The historical articles underscore a dedication to documenting the evolution of UFO interest and investigation within Denmark.
Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 1-78
Date: January-February 1978 (implied by issue number and cover dates)
Publisher: SUFOI (Scandinavian UFO Information)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
This issue of UFO-NYT delves into several key areas of ufology, including the investigation of photographic evidence, eyewitness accounts of sightings, and an extensive reader survey aimed at improving the organization's services and understanding its readership.
SCANDI-rapport: Skillingaryd Photography Investigation
The cover story, "SCANDI-rapport," focuses on the renowned Skillingaryd photographs taken in 1971. The article details an investigation by GICOFF (Göteborgs Informations Center för Oidentifierade Flygande Föremål) into the authenticity of these images, which were claimed to be among the best UFO photographs ever taken. The report confirms that three major photographic laboratories in Gothenburg—Kodak, A-kopi, and Hulténs—analyzed the photos and found them to be unequivocally genuine, ruling out common photographic tricks like double exposure or compositing. The investigation also explored the possibility of the object being suspended by wires, but found no evidence to support this. The article highlights the sensation surrounding these photos, which depicted an object that was later determined to be approximately 40 centimeters in diameter.
The Skillingaryd Incident
The incident occurred on May 6, 1971, near Skillingaryd's known shooting range in Sweden. A 25-year-old man and his 4-year-old son, riding a moped, witnessed a blinking object in the sky. The object, described as grey or silver and disk-shaped with a waddling and twisting motion, descended behind a hilltop. The witness managed to take two photographs with a Minolta 16 spy camera. One photo was blurry, but the second, taken from a lower angle, was sharper. The object then moved away at high speed, emitting a high-pitched sound.
Further Investigations and Model Construction
Later, the same witness reported taking more photos of 'flying saucers,' this time showing multiple objects. This led to increased suspicion among some UFO enthusiasts, as the witness seemed to have an extraordinary run of luck. Members of GICOFF interviewed the witness and were satisfied with his account. The Skillingaryd photos were widely published in UFO journals and on book covers worldwide, consistently being hailed as authentic and among the best evidence available.
The article also discusses how the analysis of the photos revealed a stereoscopic effect, allowing for the calculation of the object's dimensions. Through detailed measurements and mathematical calculations, it was determined that the object was approximately 40 cm in diameter. A model was constructed using Chevrolet hubcaps from the 1950s-60s, which closely matched the appearance of the photographed object. This model, weighing about 1 kg, could easily be suspended by thin wires, suggesting a possible method for creating similar photographic evidence.
Alternative Interpretations
One religious publication presented the image rotated, suggesting the object was from 'hell,' with the bunker in the background interpreted as an entrance to a fiery underworld or a volcanic crater.
UFO Sightings in Denmark (1977)
Gelsted Incident (October 21, 1977)
A report from Gelsted describes an incident where a diesel-powered tractor's engine and lights suddenly failed. The tractor driver noticed the vehicle becoming lighter and observed a round, blinking red and white object directly overhead. After a few seconds, the object disappeared, and the tractor's lights and engine returned to normal operation. The witness found it strange that no sound was heard from the object and that none of his neighbors had seen anything unusual.
Græsted Incident (November 25, 1977)
At 8:15 PM in Græsted, a witness out walking his dog observed a UFO. The dog had been unusually restless throughout the walk. The object was described as a flat disk with a dome on top, featuring three visible windows emitting strong white light. The disk had red and blue lights around its periphery. It moved from north to south with a faint humming sound and disappeared over the horizon within a minute. The witness, familiar with aircraft, stated it was definitely not a plane.
Hørsholm Incident (November 28, 1977)
In Hørsholm, shortly after midnight, a witness and companions exiting a taxi noticed a 5-kroner sized object, described as a circular or slightly oval disk, moving silently and glowing yellowish-white. It flew at a low altitude from west to east at an estimated speed of 30-50 km/h, appearing to be just above a nearby building. The entire observation lasted only a second or two before the object disappeared behind a house.
Reader Survey (Læserundersøgelse)
SUFOI initiated a reader survey, initially conducted among readers on Djursland, with plans to extend it to all UFO-NYT subscribers. The survey's primary goals were to improve communication between SUFOI and its members, identify perceived weaknesses in UFO-NYT's content, gauge general attitudes towards UFO issues, and assess the need for lectures and meetings. The survey questionnaire, included in the magazine, asked about readers' interests in the UFO phenomenon, their history with UFO-NYT, how they learned about SUFOI, their engagement with other UFO publications, preferred topics, attendance at lectures, and opinions on the existence of extraterrestrial life.
Survey Incentives and Confidentiality
To encourage participation, respondents were entered into a draw for two prizes: a book by J. Allen Hynek, a large UFO poster with an emblem, or UFO tapes. The survey emphasized that all responses would be treated with strict confidentiality.
Specific Survey Questions
- Key questions included:
- What aspects of the UFO phenomenon interest you most?
- When did you start reading UFO-NYT?
- How did you first contact SUFOI/UFO-NYT?
- Do you subscribe to other UFO magazines?
- Which topics do you find unsatisfactorily covered in UFO-NYT?
- Have you attended UFO lectures?
- Would you be interested in UFO meetings in your area?
- Do you consider yourself an active or passive member of SUFOI?
- Would you like to work more actively within SUFOI?
- Do you believe in extraterrestrial life or intelligent extraterrestrial life?
- What are your most likely explanations for the UFO phenomenon (e.g., alien spacecraft, time travelers, misinterpretations, etc.)?
Readers were asked to fill out the questionnaire clearly and return it by March 1, 1978.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of photographic evidence in ufology, the reporting of eyewitness sightings, and the active engagement with the readership through surveys. The editorial stance appears to be one of thorough investigation and a commitment to providing factual reporting, as demonstrated by the detailed analysis of the Skillingaryd photos and the structured approach to gathering reader feedback. The magazine aims to be a platform for disseminating information and fostering a deeper understanding of UFO phenomena among its audience.
This issue of UFO-NYT, dated 1-78 (January 1978), focuses on the analysis of UFO photographs and related witness testimonies. The main article, "Computerfotografisk analyse - af fotografier fra San José de Valderas, Spanien 1967" (Computer Photographic Analysis - of photographs from San José de Valderas, Spain 1967), presents a detailed investigation into a set of alleged UFO photos.
Analysis of San José de Valderas Photographs
The magazine details a computer-enhanced photographic analysis of images purportedly taken in San José de Valderas, Spain, in 1967. The analysis, conducted by Claude Poher of the National French Center for Space Research (CNES), utilized advanced equipment and techniques, including edge enhancement, color contouring, digitization, and high-resolution processing. The conclusion drawn from this rigorous examination is that the photographs depict a "crude hoax" (groft svindelnummer). The analysis found the object to be completely without mass and flat, with the symbol on its surface being the only part with any significant profile. The object's characteristics were found to be inconsistent with a real flying object, suggesting it was a small model suspended by a thread.
Several arguments are presented to support the hoax hypothesis:
- Object Placement: The object is consistently located near the upper or side edges of the photographs, which is deemed unnatural for a photographer excited by a genuine sighting.
- Camera Perspective and Alignment: Inconsistencies in the horizon's symmetry relative to the frame edges and the optical axis's angle relative to the horizontal background suggest unnatural camera positioning, possibly requiring a tripod that was not mentioned.
- Multiple Photographers: The claim of a second photographer, "Antonio Pardo," is questioned, as the images attributed to him are precisely aligned with the landscape, implying cameras placed within centimeters of each other, which is considered impossible.
- Object Characteristics: The analysis of "blurring" at different landscape levels in relation to the object's details suggests the object was a small model close to the camera, within its shallow depth of field (estimated at 3.50 meters).
- Photometry and Geometry: The brightness of the "dome" in one image appears brighter than the sky, suggesting a light source of hundreds of milliwatts or kilowatts. The object's apparent variations in diameter are consistent with its claimed trajectory.
- Albedo and Transparency: Photometric comparisons suggest the object was transparent, like a camping plate made of plastic, with markings applied with a marker or ink. The transmission factor values align with this.
- Energy Radiation: The value of energy radiation from an opaque object and its variations along the length are inconsistent with the hypothesis of an object emitting light by magnetizing and ionizing the air, indicating the object was not opaque.
Dr. Claude Poher's own experiment, using two camping plastic plates and a plastic cup, successfully reproduced the photographic effects, further supporting the hoax theory.
Witness Testimonies and Related Cases
The issue also features extensive witness accounts related to UFO sightings, particularly concerning the "UMMO" case and events in Aluche and San José de Valderas.
Aluche Sightings:
- Direct Accounts: Vicente Ortuño reported seeing a large, clear, disk-shaped object, orange-red with a dark bottom, disappear quickly. Maria Ruiz described seeing something strange like a "giant eye." Juan Jimenez Diaz called an object "very strange" and described a door opening and closing.
- José Luis Jordán's Account: Jordán, a psychologist, reported seeing a whitish disk that changed to orange, the size of a car. He observed a large disk with a vibrating sound and dark markings. He later collected witness accounts.
- Indirect Accounts: Mariano de las Heras heard soldiers in his bar talk about seeing a craft on February 6, 1966. Herminia Pelaez Blanco reported seeing a "terrible thing" descend towards the ground, leaving behind a burnt area with three rectangular indentations.
San José de Valderas Sightings:
- Antonio San Antonio's Report: A photographer received a tip about negatives of a flying saucer. He obtained five negatives, which he assessed as carefully taken but potentially fake. The negatives were later analyzed by the Spanish technical institute for aerospace and space research, which identified the metal as nickel and the plastic strip with the UMMO symbol as Tedlar, a plastic not available commercially.
- Witnesses near the Castle: Several individuals reported seeing a strange light or fireball near the castle. One witness found "three tracks forming an equilateral triangle" with sides of 6 meters, rectangular in shape (30x15 cm) and somewhat deep.
- Emilia Garcia's Account: A 13-year-old student saw an oval, bright orange-red object hovering for about 5 minutes before ascending and disappearing. She noted a black symbol on its underside.
- Other Witnesses: A female resident and her husband saw a round object moving from side to side, described as having a clear orange-red-yellow color and a large square cross or black symbol.
- Letter to J. M. Casas Huguet: A person reported seeing a strange light, orange-blue-green, shaped like a rugby ball, approaching the castle. This witness doubted the authenticity of photographed events.
Santa Monica Sightings:
- Manuel Rivero Ciudad: Reported seeing an unusually cone-shaped object moving very fast in the air, ascending vertically and disappearing. He described it as having a circle of small, rotating openings that looked like a light ring.
- Eugenia Arbiol Alonso: Saw a large, round object, like a fuel or water tank, descend from the sky, land briefly, and disappear.
- Antonio Muñoz: Reported seeing an orange light or fireball descend. He later found "three tracks forming an equilateral triangle" with sides of 6 meters, rectangular (30x15 cm) and deep. He also mentioned a symbol shown to him by a man, which was recognized as a sign from another planet. He received a letter offering a reward for metal tubes found at the site.
GICOFF and UFO Research Stance
The magazine features an article from GICOFF Information, detailing the organization's approach to UFO research. GICOFF emphasizes the need for serious, unbiased investigation, urging observers not to be deterred from contacting them. They acknowledge that "pranksters" (Spøgefugle) are inevitable but stress that all phenomena must be thoroughly investigated and witness testimonies considered true until proven otherwise. The analysis of the Skillingaryds photographs is presented as evidence of GICOFF's genuine interest and honest work in the UFO field, countering claims that such investigations harm the UFO cause.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue revolve around photo analysis, witness credibility, and the potential for hoaxes in UFO phenomena. The editorial stance, as expressed through the articles and analyses, is one of critical inquiry and thorough investigation. The magazine advocates for a balanced approach, avoiding both outright skepticism and uncritical acceptance of claims. The emphasis is on scientific methodology, detailed evidence gathering, and objective analysis to discern truth from deception in UFO reports. The potential for large-scale manipulation, as suggested by the connection between the San José de Valderas photos and the UMMO case, is also highlighted, underscoring the complexity and seriousness of UFO investigations.
Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 1-78
Date: January 1978
Publisher: SUFOI (Scandinavian UFO Information)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
This issue of UFO-NYT delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, astronomy, and related cultural impacts, featuring articles on a new celestial discovery, a major science fiction film, and ongoing mysteries.
Article: Close Encounters of the Third Kind
The cover story focuses on Steven Spielberg's highly anticipated film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," which is set to premiere in Europe. The article highlights the film's potential to significantly boost public interest in UFOs, citing its European premiere in Stockholm on February 24th and its Copenhagen release on March 3rd. The film's success in the US, with a $25 million box office in its first two weeks, is noted. UFO expert J. Allen Hynek served as a technical consultant, advising Spielberg to base the film's events on real UFO reports. The article emphasizes that the film's strength lies in its realistic portrayal of encounters with the unknown, making it relatable to average people. The main character, Roy Neary, an electrician, experiences strange phenomena that lead him to investigate a mysterious power outage. The film is praised for its departure from typical science fiction tropes, focusing on a more grounded and humanistic approach to alien contact. The article also touches upon Spielberg's personal fascination with UFOs since childhood and the film's production, which was kept highly secret. The film's realistic depiction of UFOs is expected to encourage millions worldwide to accept the idea of their existence, potentially leading to demands for official investigations.
Article: The Discovery of a Mini-Planet (Chiron)
This section reports on the discovery of a new celestial body, dubbed a "mini-planet," by American astronomer Charles Kowal. Found in November 1977 using the 48-inch Schmidt telescope at Palomar Observatory, this object is estimated to be between 150 and 650 km in diameter. It is located in an unexpected region of the solar system, between the orbits of Saturn and Uranus. Kowal, known for his astronomical discoveries, found the object while searching for comets. The mini-planet is faint, with a magnitude of 18, making it invisible to the naked eye and requiring long-exposure photography. The article discusses the naming of the object, which Kowal has decided to call Chiron (or Cheiron), after a benevolent centaur from Greek mythology. Chiron has an eccentric orbit of 50.7 years and occasionally ventures between Saturn and Jupiter. The discovery is presented as evidence that the solar system still holds many surprises.
Article: UFO Analysis of a Photograph
This section provides a detailed analysis of a UFO photograph, likely intended to debunk or scrutinize a specific sighting. The analysis uses digital lighting measurements to assess the image's reflectivity and pixel analysis to determine the object's proximity to the camera. Computer programs were used to analyze the lumen distribution and cursor profiling data, suggesting the object resembled an upside-down paper plate with a symbol on its underside. The object was measured to be less than eight inches in diameter. The camera's position was noted as being close to the ground to give an impression of height and distance. Edge enhancement revealed a linear structure, interpreted as a suspension wire. The analysis concludes that the UFO's pixels were sharper than those of a foreground pole, indicating its closeness. The authors, Fred Adrian and William Spaulding, state that the photograph is a crude attempt to replicate a genuine UFO event and that while UFO fraud should be exposed, this particular image does not represent an unusual flying object.
Letters to the Editor
Several letters from readers are included:
- Finn Olesen questions the concept of UFO propulsion, doubting that hot gases could be emitted without making the surrounding landscape appear blurred, similar to aircraft exhaust.
- Ole Henningsen responds to Olesen's letter, acknowledging the article's source (National Enquirer) and the delay in publishing due to a lack of corroborating information. He mentions that other UFO publications have since covered the story and notes the involvement of UFO researcher Dr. Claude Poher.
- Ole Henningsen also addresses reader inquiries about the Bermuda Triangle and moon obelisks. He explains that information on the Bermuda Triangle is abundant but often repetitive, and the magazine is working on a new article. The delay in the moon obelisk article was due to translation difficulties from Russian and communication issues with NASA.
- Robert Strube expresses interest in the Bermuda Triangle and moon obelisks, having read a book on the former and awaiting articles promised in a previous issue.
- Hans Grau also inquires about articles on the Bermuda Triangle and moon obelisks, expressing disappointment at their absence.
The editorial response to the Bermuda Triangle letters notes the proliferation of books on the subject and expresses skepticism about many of the claims, citing research by Lawrence Kusche that allegedly debunks common narratives. The magazine intends to publish a Russian commentary on the Bermuda Triangle myth.
Astronomical Data and Notes
- Planetary Transits: A table provides the rising and setting times for Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn for March 1, 1978.
- Lunar Eclipse: A total lunar eclipse on March 24, 1978, is described, noting its visibility in Denmark. A second eclipse on September 16th will be discussed later.
- Solar Eclipse: No solar eclipses are observable from Denmark in 1978.
UFO-NYT Brevkasse (Letters Column)
- UFO Propulsion: A reader's query about UFO propulsion is addressed, with the editor acknowledging the article's source and the difficulty in verifying the information. They mention that Dr. Claude Poher, a respected UFO researcher, is involved.
- Bermuda Triangle: The magazine discusses the ongoing interest in the Bermuda Triangle, noting the many books published on the topic. They express a skeptical stance, suggesting that many accounts are exaggerated or fabricated, and that detailed scrutiny often disproves the claims. They are planning to publish a new article on the subject, possibly including a Russian perspective.
- Moon Obelisks: The delay in publishing an article on moon obelisks is attributed to difficulties in translating Russian material from the Lenin Library and obtaining further facts from NASA.
Rumfarts-notitser (Space News)
- SIRIO Satellite: Launched into geostationary orbit, its purpose is to study radio wave propagation.
- Voyager 1: Launched on September 5th, it is expected to reach Jupiter in March 1979, ahead of Voyager 2.
UFO-78 Event
An announcement for the "UFO-78" event, taking place from July 22-29 in Mellerup-centret, Agerskov, is included, with contact information for the Åbenrå UFO-gruppe.
UFOs in Hvidovre
An announcement for a large UFO exhibition hosted by SUFOI at the Hvidovre Community Center from January 26th to February 15th.
Exchange of UFO-NYT Issues
Ole J. Knudsen is seeking to exchange or purchase old issues of UFO-NYT to complete collections.
Article: José Antônio da Silva's Incredible Adventure (Part 2)
This is the continuation of a report detailing an alleged encounter with aliens. The witness, José Antônio da Silva, experienced physical effects after the encounter, including open sores, swelling, and digestive issues. These symptoms eventually subsided. The article notes the witness's reluctance to undergo a medical examination, fearing it would be seen as an excuse to miss work. The report mentions that the witness felt strange sensations inside the UFO when the light began to pulsate. The witness's family confirmed he was previously in good health. The article also includes a brief anecdote about a man meeting a Martian.
Upcoming in the next issue
Teasers for future articles include a UFO sighting and photograph from the 1952 naval exercise "Operation Mainbrace" in the North Sea, and details of US President Carter's UFO observation.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
This issue of UFO-NYT demonstrates a consistent focus on UFO phenomena, astronomical discoveries, and the intersection of these topics with popular culture, particularly through film. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking to analyze reports, debunk hoaxes, and present factual information, while also acknowledging the public's fascination with the unknown. There is a clear effort to distinguish between sensationalism and serious research, as seen in the analysis of the UFO photograph and the skeptical approach to the Bermuda Triangle. The magazine also aims to keep its readers informed about relevant astronomical events and UFO-related activities and publications. The inclusion of reader letters and responses highlights an engagement with the readership and a willingness to address their questions and concerns.
Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 1978
Date: 1978
Publisher: SUFOI
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
This issue of UFO-NYT primarily functions as a catalog, presenting a curated list of UFO-related materials that members of SUFOI (a Danish UFO organization) can purchase. The cover headline, "Her er nogle af de UFO-materialer, De næsten MÅ have:" (Here are some of the UFO materials you almost MUST have:), sets the tone for a sales-oriented presentation of books, audio recordings, and merchandise.
Available UFO Materials
The magazine details a variety of items, each with a description and a SUFOI member price in Danish Kroner (kr.).
- Books:
- "Synspunkter – Tre UFO-artikler": A collection of three articles covering UFOs, ball lightning, and report material, focusing on three important areas of UFO research. It contains 60 pages with illustrations and is priced at kr. 25,60.
- J. Allen Hynek: "UFO – Dokumenteret": Described as the main work on UFO literature, this book has 256 densely written pages with numerous details and illustrations. Its original price was kr. 68,50, but the SUFOI member price is kr. 49,75.
- "UFO og Videnskaben": A debate book featuring six prominent American researchers advocating for continued UFO investigations. It has 136 pages and is available for kr. 22,60 (original price kr. 29,75).
- Olavo Fontes: "Trinidade-observationerne": A detailed account of one of the most significant "UFO classics," this 32-page illustrated booklet costs kr. 7,70.
- Frank Pedersen/Iver O. Kjems: "UFO-Orientering": An illustrated, easy-to-read handbook on the UFO problem, comprising 120 pages and priced at kr. 10,00.
- Merchandise:
- Den store UFO-plakat (The large UFO poster): A 4-color photo poster with text in 4 languages, suitable as a gift for friends abroad. It measures 62 x 93 cm and costs kr. 25,65.
- UFO-emblemet (The UFO emblem): An elegant and discreet emblem made with fine goldsmith quality, 26 mm wide, with a pin. Brooches are sold out. The price is kr. 26,50.
- Audio Tapes:
- UFO-bånd nr. 1 (UFO tape no. 1): A cassette tape with approximately 50 minutes of playtime, featuring a wide range of UFO reports, especially from the USA, retold in Danish. Price: kr. 25,65.
- UFO-bånd nr. 2 (UFO tape no. 2): A cassette tape with approximately 55 minutes of playtime, including a famous Danish observation and opinions from known Danes. Price: kr. 25,65.
- Hørespillet "Klodernes Kamp" (The radio play "The War of the Worlds"): The American original version from 1938, adapted by Orson Welles based on H.G. Wells' novel. Available on cassette tape for kr. 25,65.
- Back Issues:
- UFO-NYT årgang 1976 (UFO-NYT year 1976): A volume of 264 pages with many illustrations. Price: kr. 55,00 (subject to availability).
- UFO-NYT årgang 1977 (UFO-NYT year 1977): Described as the biggest success to date, with approximately 264 pages. Price: kr. 60,00.
- UFO-NYT årgang 1978 (UFO-NYT year 1978): Offers even more content and pictures, despite significant price increases. Price: kr. 65,00.
Ordering instructions are provided, directing customers to use giro account 9 11 77 25 at SUFOI, P.O. Box 6, 2820 Gentofte, and to clearly specify the desired items.
Official Investigation Initiated!
The second page of the magazine shifts focus to news regarding official UFO investigations. It reports on positive developments from France, where the president of the space research center CNES (Centre National d'Études Spatiales) established an official UFO research program in the summer of 1977. This program is named GEPAN ("Groupe d'Étude des Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non identifies"). The initiative has received support from all leading government research bodies, including the national center for scientific research, the astrophysical institute, the national meteorological institute, and French universities.
Dr. Claude Poher, head of CNES's tracking rocket department and known for his work on statistical analysis of UFO reports, is named as the chief of GEPAN. The article also references his analysis of the San José photos in the same issue.
Furthermore, the report details a UN UFO debate that took place in early December, initiated by Eric Gairy, the Prime Minister of Grenada. Gairy called for the establishment of a permanent UN department dedicated to the investigation, coordination, and publication of UFO-related phenomena. He also proposed that 1978 be designated as the UN's International UFO Year. Following Gairy's speech, Grenada's UN ambassador spoke for over an hour, after which the meeting's leader suggested postponing further discussion to allow members time to familiarize themselves with the subject.
The sources cited for this news section are "International UFO Reporter" (Autumn 1977) and "Weekendavisen" (December 16, 1977).
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine's stance appears to be one of active engagement with UFO phenomena, both through providing resources for enthusiasts (the catalog section) and reporting on official and scientific investigations (the GEPAN and UN news). The editorial team, represented by "IOKj," seems dedicated to informing their readership about the latest developments in the field, including international efforts and academic research. The emphasis on purchasable materials suggests a goal of educating and equipping their members with knowledge and tools related to UFO studies.