UFO Nyt - No 6 nov-dec 1978

Magazine Overview

Title: ufo nyt
Issue: 6
Volume: 20. årg.
Date: November/December 1978
Publisher: SKANDINAVISK UFO INFORMATION
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
Price: kr. 65,-

Content Summary

This issue of "ufo nyt" from November/December 1978, published by Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI), delves into the future of UFO research and the organization's role within it. The cover features a striking graphic with stylized planets and the magazine's title.

Editorial and Organizational Information

The magazine opens with an introduction to SUFOI, defining its purpose as collecting and processing UFO observation reports to advance understanding of the phenomenon. It clarifies that SUFOI does not endorse any specific theory regarding UFOs, adhering to a definition of a UFO as an unidentified flying object that cannot be explained by known natural phenomena after thorough investigation. The organizational structure is outlined, with the "Repræsentantskabet" (Representative Council) and the "Forretningsudvalget" (Executive Committee) leading the association. Contact information for various departments and representatives across Scandinavia is provided.

"Fremtiden" (The Future) by Flemming Ahrenkiel

SUFOI's chairman, Flemming Ahrenkiel, contemplates the future of UFO research. He presents two main possibilities: either the phenomenon will be scientifically explained in the coming years, or it will remain an enigma. He suggests that a scientific breakthrough, perhaps in psychology, physics, or astronomy, could provide an explanation, or it might involve contact with extraterrestrial intelligences. Regardless of the outcome, Ahrenkiel states that SUFOI's mission would be fulfilled, having contributed to the clarification and dissemination of information. He acknowledges that SUFOI, as a private organization, might become obsolete if the phenomenon is explained, but believes the accumulated knowledge would serve as a historical record. He also expresses personal conviction that the UFO phenomenon will be better understood within the next 3-4 years, possibly through a UFO congress.

International Developments

The article highlights international efforts in UFO research. It mentions the U.S. space agency NASA, which, while not undertaking direct UFO research, has stated its willingness to provide facilities for analysis if significant evidence emerges. The French space agency CNES is also noted for its UFO investigation project, GEPAN, with Claude Poher being a member of its staff. The United Nations (UN) is discussed in the context of a resolution proposal by Grenada's Prime Minister Sir Eric Gairy in 1977, aiming for international cooperation on UFO research. This proposal was discussed at the UN General Assembly, with initial skepticism from some delegations, and was deferred for further consideration.

Several prominent UFO researchers and figures are mentioned in relation to these international developments, including Dr. J. Allen Hynek (founder of the Center for UFO Studies), Jacques Vallée (mathematician and author), David Saunders (psychologist and critic of the Condon Report), and former astronaut Gordon Cooper. Their involvement in discussions, such as a meeting with UN Secretary-General Kurt Waldheim, is noted.

SUFOI's Projects and Future Work

Domestically, SUFOI is pursuing several promising projects. The organization is developing its technical department, FOTA, which is working on an effective detector capable of registering changes in magnetic fields and other parameters. This technology is intended to be part of a nationwide registration system to support visual observations with technical data. SUFOI is also implementing a computer-based registration and processing system for its extensive report material, aiming to make information more accessible and to identify patterns and commonalities in UFO sightings. The goal is to move beyond human interpretation and towards more objective data collection.

SUFOI also plans to offer training for "field researchers" to improve the quality of UFO report collection and field investigations, helping to identify and filter out common misidentifications and errors.

Financial Needs and Membership

The magazine appeals to its members for financial support, specifically for the EDB/Tekniske Fond (Computer/Technical Fund), with a goal of raising 20,000 Danish Kroner. These funds are earmarked for FOTA and the computer group's projects. The organization has applied for tax-deductible status for contributions.

SUFOI Congress 1978

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the SUFOI Congress held in Lyngby Storcenter on October 15, 1978. The event was deemed a great success, attracting approximately 300 attendees from across the country and lasting for most of the day. The congress featured various presentations and activities, including a large foyer exhibition with UFO literature from around the world, slide shows, and displays. Speakers included Flemming Ahrenkiel, who spoke on the future of SUFOI, and former chairman Frank Pedersen, who discussed SUFOI's 20-year history. Other presenters included Ole J. Knudsen (Alarmcentral), Carsten H. Pedersen (Rapportcentralen), Ole Henningsen (Efterforsknings-afdelingen), and Bent Aalberg (FOTA).

NASA and UFOs

An article titled "NASA og UFOerne" (NASA and UFOs) by Ole Henningsen examines the U.S. government's stance on UFOs during the Carter administration. It discusses the public expectation that President Carter would fulfill a campaign promise to release classified UFO reports. While a campaign office statement confirmed Carter had seen a UFO, it clarified he had not promised to pursue the matter as president. The article references a "Washington Whispers" note in "U.S. World and News Report" suggesting the government would release UFO material, which raised hopes among UFO enthusiasts. However, investigations by the Center for UFO Studies, involving Dr. Frank Press (President Carter's scientific advisor), indicated that while the archives of "Project Bluebook" were publicly accessible at the National Archives, there were no plans for a general release of UFO-related documents. The article also touches upon reports of NASA beginning an active study of UFO phenomena, which was initially denied by NASA officials, though it was later revealed that Dr. Frank Press had indeed asked NASA to investigate UFO problems in September 1977.

Table of Contents

The issue includes a detailed table of contents listing articles such as "Fremtiden" (The Future), "Glimt fra SUFOIs kongres" (Glimpses from SUFOI's Congress), "NASA og UFOerne" (NASA and UFOs), "Læserundersøgelsen 1978" (Reader Survey 1978), "UFO-rapporter, Danmark" (UFO Reports, Denmark), and various other topics related to UFOs, space, and related phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the future of UFO research, the organizational efforts of SUFOI, and the potential for governmental transparency regarding UFO information. The editorial stance, as expressed by Flemming Ahrenkiel, is one of cautious optimism regarding the progress of UFO research and SUFOI's role in it. There is a clear emphasis on scientific methodology, data collection, and the importance of international cooperation. The magazine aims to inform its readers about both domestic and international developments in the field, while also soliciting support for its own projects. The tone is informative and forward-looking, acknowledging the complexities and challenges of the UFO phenomenon.

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 6-78
Publisher: SUFOI
Country: Denmark
Date: Not explicitly stated, but issue number suggests 1978.

This issue of UFO-NYT delves into the complex relationship between government agencies and UFO research, particularly focusing on NASA's stance and the results of a comprehensive reader survey.

NASA's Stance on UFO Investigations

The lead article discusses the aftermath of a request from the White House to NASA to establish a UFO panel. It highlights that NASA, through its administrative leader Dr. Robert Frosch, ultimately declined to initiate a large-scale research project. The response, dated December 21, 1977, indicated that NASA would continue to address public inquiries and analyze any tangible, credible evidence presented, but would not actively pursue UFO research. This decision was influenced by a desire to maintain scientific independence and avoid further controversy, especially given NASA's existing commitments like the space shuttle program. The article notes that while this was not a complete rejection, it effectively passed the initiative back to private UFO organizations like APRO.

Dave Williamson, NASA's advisor for special projects, is quoted expressing skepticism about researching phenomena without measurable proof, likening it to the Loch Ness Monster. He emphasized the need for concrete evidence, such as physical samples, rather than theories or anecdotal accounts, to justify significant research funding.

Despite the official stance, the article suggests that NASA left a 'crack in the door,' indicating a willingness to examine credible, tangible evidence. This includes analyzing soil samples, vegetation, or metal fragments if they are presented by reliable sources. The article also mentions that International UFO Reporter and Center for UFO Studies would assist UFO researchers in bringing compelling evidence to NASA's attention.

Lawsuit Against the CIA

Another significant piece reports on a lawsuit filed by Harvey Brody, a member of the US organization Ground Saucer Watch, against the CIA. The lawsuit aims to compel the CIA to release all UFO-related materials from its archives, invoking the Freedom of Information Act. The article explains that the CIA can only withhold information if it pertains to national security. Ground Saucer Watch is known for its controversial computer analyses of UFO photos, and the outcome of this legal battle is anticipated with interest.

French-American Cooperation

The magazine also covers the burgeoning cooperation between the US and France in UFO research. Dr. J. Allen Hynek's 'Center for UFO Studies' has been invited to collaborate with the French investigative body GEPAN. A meeting in Paris in December 1977 led to proposals for the upcoming year, including Dr. Hynek's center selecting 5-10 significant US UFO cases for GEPAN to investigate. These cases would undergo rigorous physical and psychological scrutiny, representing the 'crème de la crème' of US UFOlogy.

SUFOI Reader Survey 1978

A substantial portion of the magazine is dedicated to the results of a reader survey conducted by SUFOI. The survey, dubbed 'Læserundersøgelsen 1978,' aimed to understand reader demographics, their engagement with UFO topics, and their views on various aspects of the phenomenon.

Key findings from the survey include:

• Reader Demographics and Contact Methods: The survey revealed that nearly 20% of SUFOI subscribers responded. The most common ways readers learned about SUFOI and UFO-NYT were through friends/family (23.9%), followed by 'other' (27.1%), and UFO books (13.4%).
• Engagement with UFO Lectures: Approximately 46.1% of readers had attended at least one UFO lecture, while 53.6% had not. The primary reason for not attending was the lack of lectures in their vicinity, particularly in regions like Jutland.
• Desire for Active Participation: A significant majority (81.2%) expressed interest in attending local UFO meetings. Furthermore, 38.6% of readers wished to be more actively involved in SUFOI.
• Belief in Extraterrestrial Life: An overwhelming 85.3% of readers believe in the existence of life in the universe, with 88.2% specifically believing in intelligent life. There was little distinction between believing in life and believing in intelligent life, suggesting a view that if life exists, it is likely sentient.
• Hypotheses for UFO Phenomena: The most widely accepted hypothesis among readers was the 'spaceship hypothesis' (90%), suggesting UFOs are extraterrestrial craft. Other significant hypotheses included time travelers (38.1%), visitors from another 'earthly plane' (33.8%), and unknown natural phenomena (29.8%).

The survey results are intended to guide SUFOI's future activities and improve its communication with members.

UFO Sighting: The Car Encounter

The issue also features a classic UFO case from Denmark, detailing an incident on April 27, 1960. A driver reported seeing a bright, white ring-shaped object approach his car at high speed, stop abruptly, and cause his car's electrical systems to fail. The object was estimated to be 9x6 meters and its presence led to the car's engine cutting out and lights going dark.

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

The magazine consistently promotes an open yet critical approach to UFO phenomena, encouraging scientific investigation while acknowledging the limitations of current evidence. It highlights the importance of credible evidence and rigorous analysis. The publication serves as a platform for disseminating information about UFO research, both official and private, and fostering engagement within the UFO community. Recurring themes include the role of government agencies in UFO research, the public's perception and beliefs about UFOs and extraterrestrial life, and the efforts of private organizations like SUFOI to investigate and inform.

The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious optimism, advocating for continued investigation and open-mindedness, while emphasizing the need for verifiable data and scientific methodology. The magazine also aims to connect readers with opportunities for involvement in UFO research and discussion.

This issue of UFO-NYT, dated 6-78, features a diverse range of articles focusing on UFO phenomena, scientific investigations, and space exploration. The cover prominently displays the headline "Nu lander de på VENUS" (Now they land on VENUS), accompanied by an illustration of a spacecraft and figures, and a diagram of a UFO, suggesting a focus on extraterrestrial encounters and technology.

Key Articles and Reports

Viita-sagen - en enkelt gang endnu...

This section addresses the controversial Viita case, with H. C. Petersen responding to an earlier article by Ole Henningsen. Petersen criticizes Henningsen's explanation, suggesting it presents a skewed view of the case. He clarifies that IGAP did not dismiss the Viita case beforehand but took it on to prevent a new, complex "UFO-case." Petersen disputes Henningsen's claim that SUFOI had an accident with the negatives, suggesting a new set could have been made before the originals were returned. He also takes issue with Henningsen drawing Adamski and himself into the discussion in a polemical manner. Petersen defends Mr. Spaulding's analysis of terrestrial objects but notes its limitations for non-terrestrial craft, referencing his reaction to Spaulding in Acapulco regarding an Adamski photo. Petersen asserts that while one Adamski photo was proven to be a hoax, another was not, implying a distinction in their authenticity. He expresses satisfaction that SUFOI is skeptical of Viita's accounts, as he believes many UFOlogists seek sensationalism rather than truth. IGAP, he states, informed everyone publishing Viita's photos about their findings, making further efforts by SUFOI redundant.

H. C. Petersen's Letter to UFO-NYT

H. C. Petersen writes to UFO-NYT regarding an article by Ole Henningsen. Petersen argues that the common claims about Adamski's photographs – that they depict a streetlamp in Berlin or a beer cooler lid in England – are false. He believes that while Adamski's photos may not be genuine UFOs, they are not what Henningsen claims either. Petersen emphasizes the need for fairness, stating that if the discussion is not about UFOs, it becomes political. He notes that IGAP has informed people publishing Viita's photos about their conclusions and that SUFOI's work in this regard is commendable and in line with IGAP's efforts.

Commentary on H. C. Petersen's Letter to UFO-NYT

Ole Henningsen responds to H. C. Petersen's letter. Henningsen confirms that SUFOI did have an issue with copies of Jorma Viita's photographs, which was only recognized after the negatives were returned. He dismisses Petersen's claim that SUFOI rejected the case beforehand as absurd. Henningsen agrees with Petersen's assessment of the Viita case – that neither of them believes Jorma Viita's accounts or photographs. He highlights IGAP's proactive approach in informing the public about their findings on the Viita case, suggesting it makes further efforts by SUFOI unnecessary. Henningsen also states that Petersen's conclusion about Spaulding's computer analysis being inapplicable to non-terrestrial objects is currently his own opinion. He concludes by thanking Petersen for the letter, seeing it as a valuable opportunity to discuss important issues in their respective UFO publications.

FOTA-orientering (FOTA Orientation)

This article details the development of a UFO tracking station by FOTA (a Danish organization). The station aims to overcome the challenge of distinguishing genuine UFO signals from noise. It is situated in a remote, quiet location to minimize interference. The station uses a sensitive electronic detector to register changes in magnetic fields, including pulsating ones. This detector triggers subsequent equipment for a 30-second period. The system includes a microphone amplifier, a VHF frequency-modulated transmitter, and a power supply system powered by a wind generator. The station is designed to be housed in a modified freezer box for durability and serviceability. It can also operate on batteries for at least a week if the wind generator fails. The receiving side uses an older VHF station that activates a writer and tape recorder upon receiving a signal. The station is intended to record information about field changes, including their homogeneity or pulsation, duration, and intensity. It can also record audible sounds. The article mentions that the detector and transmitter have been built and tested, and the receiver, writer, and tape recorder are functional. FOTA has applied for a dispensation from P&T regarding licensing requirements for transmitting call signs, as short signal durations might cause issues. Future plans include expanding the equipment to measure microwave and infrared radiation. The article also notes that FOTA has begun technical cooperation with Niels Sarnov in Kolding, who specializes in automatic photography for tracking stations, with plans to establish five tracking stations in a line.

UFO-Sighting in Denmark

This section recounts a detailed UFO sighting by an observer from Midtsjælland. The observer describes a hovering object, approximately 3 meters above his car, emitting a gray-green light. Three telescopic support legs extended from the object, and a cylindrical tube with a square opening descended. Four figures, dressed in green suits with dark stripes, emerged and approached the car slowly. They carried what appeared to be staff-like flashlights. The observer describes the figures as resembling ordinary humans but shorter, with flatter faces. They moved their mouths as if speaking, but no sound was heard, creating an eerie silence. A thick cable extended from the object towards the car, ending in a screen with a round, white lens. The figures then returned to the craft, the cable retracted, and the object ascended rapidly and disappeared. The encounter lasted about 4 minutes, and the observer's wristwatch stopped during this time. Afterward, the observer noticed unusual ground marks that were hot to the touch and a patch of ground where vegetation grew slowly.

Mars Exploration

This article, titled "Radionyt fra Mars..." (Radio News from Mars...), presents a translated radio message from Mars. The message discusses the planet Earth from a Martian perspective. Earth is described as an interesting object in the sky, visible as a morning or evening star, but its atmosphere, with extensive cloud cover, hinders good observation. The surface is noted to be mostly covered in blue-green material, with some lighter areas that change color with the seasons. The Martian perspective notes that Earth has less of the vital gas carbon dioxide and more of the toxic gas oxygen in its atmosphere. Earth also has polar caps, similar to Mars, which change in size with the seasons. Some Martian scientists speculate that these caps might contain dihydrogen oxide ("wet ice"), as infrared measurements suggest Earth is too warm for free ice. Earth is accompanied by a large moon named Selene, which is unusually large relative to Earth's size. The message also mentions that within the past few years, research rockets have been sent towards Earth, with Terra 3 providing TV images from a close fly-by. These images show areas called "maria," which may be covered by a thin layer of dihydrogen oxide. Earth has mountains and few craters, and a large canyon is described. The message also touches upon the concept of "earthlings" and the possibility of life on Earth, suggesting that dust storms are necessary for protecting life from solar radiation due to Earth's proximity to the sun. It mentions observations of possible agricultural patterns or natural surface phenomena. The current conclusion is that it is unlikely that life as we know it exists on Earth, though microorganisms might be present. The article concludes with a weather report from Mars and a mention of upcoming research projects.

Venus Exploration

The article "Nu lander de på VENUS" (Now they land on VENUS) reports on the ongoing exploration of Venus by space probes. It mentions that Pioneer Venus 1 and 2 from the USA and Venera 11 and 12 from the USSR are visiting the planet. The Soviet Venera probes are of the same type as those that made a soft landing in 1975 and are expected to land and transmit images from the surface. Unlike previous missions, the Russians will not be placing a spacecraft in orbit around Venus this time. Limited information is available in advance from the Soviet Union. The Pioneer-Venus project involves an Orbiter to study the planet from orbit and a Bus carrying four probes for atmospheric measurements during descent and landing.

Other Sections

Bravkassen: This section contains a letter from H. C. Petersen to UFO-NYT regarding the Viita case and Adamski's photographs, and a response from Ole Henningsen. It also includes a notice about an upcoming book review and an announcement for the 1979 UFO-NYT subscription, detailing the content and price.

SE HER! (Look Here!): This section advertises SUFOI's own detector, which is nearing completion and will be available for delivery in January 1979. The price for members will be under 200 DKK (including VAT). They are encouraging pre-orders.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of UFO-NYT include detailed accounts of UFO sightings and investigations, the scientific and technological aspects of UFO detection, and reports on space exploration, particularly concerning Mars and Venus. The magazine appears to maintain a stance of serious inquiry into UFO phenomena, presenting both eyewitness accounts and the scientific efforts to understand them. There is a clear emphasis on evidence-based analysis, as seen in the discussions surrounding the Viita and Adamski cases, and the development of the FOTA tracking station. The magazine also engages with the broader scientific community through its coverage of space missions and the potential for extraterrestrial life. The editorial stance seems to be one of open-minded investigation, critical analysis, and a desire to inform readers about the latest developments in the field of UFO research and related scientific endeavors.

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 6-78
Date: 1978
Publisher: null
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of UFO-NYT features a comprehensive look at space exploration, particularly the Pioneer Venus mission, alongside in-depth discussions on UFO phenomena, extraterrestrial intelligence (ETI), and the challenges of establishing contact (CETI).

Pioneer Venus Mission

The issue details the two spacecraft launched for the Pioneer Venus mission: the Orbiter and the Bus. The Orbiter, launched on May 2nd, was scheduled to reach Venus on December 4th, entering a long elliptical orbit to study the planet's upper atmosphere. It was designed to operate for at least eight months, photographing the cloud cover, measuring the planet's shape, and searching for subsurface mass concentrations. The Orbiter weighed 580 kg, with 45 kg dedicated to its 12 scientific instruments.

The Bus probe, launched on August 7th, was expected to arrive at Venus around 7 PM Danish time on December 9th. It carried four landers, which were deployed on November 20th. These landers were designed to descend into Venus's atmosphere and transmit data on its composition from altitudes of 150 to 115 kilometers. The Bus itself, lacking a heat shield like the smaller probes, was expected to burn up in the atmosphere after about two minutes of transmission. The landers were designed to provide a broad overview of the planet, with landing positions calculated for diverse data collection.

Lander Specifications

The probes were described as 'hat boxes,' cylindrical with a height of 1.2 meters and a diameter of 2.5 meters. The larger probe, with its heat shield, measured 1.5 meters in diameter and weighed 316 kg, with a descent time of approximately 57 minutes. The three smaller probes were 0.8 meters in diameter, weighing 90 kg each, with a descent time of about 55 minutes. These smaller probes could manage deceleration without parachutes due to their lighter weight and retained heat shields acting as aerodynamic brakes. None of the probes were equipped with TV cameras.

UFO Research and Investigation

The magazine features an interview with Ole J. Knudsen, head of SUFOI's (Scandinavian UFO Information) report center, who emphasizes the organization's commitment to scientific research into UFO phenomena. He discusses the historical lack of scientific seriousness in the field, attributing it partly to UFOlogists themselves and partly to the difficulty of securing funding and integrating UFO research into existing scientific disciplines. Knudsen believes that while not everything will be explained, significant progress can be made in identifying known phenomena.

Per Andersen, head of SUFOI's Project UFO-data, explains the use of EDB (Electronic Data Processing) for registering and analyzing UFO reports. The project aims to create an overview of reports, facilitate retrieval of specific cases, and conduct statistical analyses. Andersen also touches upon the potential for EDB to analyze the credibility of reports, though he notes that human judgment remains crucial.

Bent Aalberg, leader of FOTA (Research and Technical Department), discusses the development of instruments to detect UFOs, focusing on electromagnetic effects. He mentions the challenge of obtaining public funding for such projects. Aalberg describes efforts to create a magnetic field detector and potentially a spectral analysis instrument to identify unknown phenomena.

Henrik Stub, interviewed at a SUFOI exhibition, expresses skepticism about UFOs being extraterrestrial spacecraft, noting that most sightings occur within the atmosphere or at low altitudes. He points out the lack of clear evidence from astronaut observations and the difficulty in distinguishing UFOs from other phenomena. Stub also highlights the emptiness of planets within our solar system, making extraterrestrial habitation there unlikely.

Theories on Extraterrestrial Intelligence (ETI) and Contact (CETI)

David W. Schwartzman, in a two-part article, explores the implications of ETI and the possibility of contact. He argues that the 'Galactic Club' hypothesis, suggesting advanced extraterrestrial civilizations exist and are aware of us, is plausible. He posits that UFOs may represent surveillance by these civilizations, possibly as a form of 'cultural manipulation' or preparation for eventual contact, akin to the 'zoo hypothesis'. Schwartzman suggests that Earth's current political and economic divisions hinder its admission into this 'Galactic Club'.

The article advocates for a more serious scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, including spectral analysis and systematic searches using radar and infrared sensors. It also proposes expanding CETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) efforts to include searching for Kardashev Type II and III civilizations and Bracewell probes.

Astronomical Data and Observations

The issue includes a section on planetary positions for December 1978 and January 1979, detailing the rising and setting times of Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn. It notes that Venus is the planet closest to Earth, with a similar size and mass, but a dense atmosphere and extreme surface temperatures (around 500°C) and pressure (100 atm), composed mainly of carbon dioxide.

A report titled "What is it, that flies?" describes a sighting in November 1976 near Herwang, West Indonesia. Civil engineer Tony Hartono photographed a large, circular object with a dark red color and a faint red halo. The object approached an oil rig, performed a sharp turn, ascended vertically at high speed, and disappeared. The photograph is presented as evidence, with analysis suggesting no camera panning occurred during the exposure.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a scientific approach to UFO research, advocating for rigorous investigation, data collection, and analysis. It highlights the efforts of organizations like SUFOI in this endeavor. The publication also engages with theoretical aspects of extraterrestrial intelligence and the potential for contact, presenting various hypotheses and arguments. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging serious scientific study of unexplained phenomena while distinguishing between credible research and sensationalism, as exemplified by the critique of sensationalist UFO magazines.

This issue of UFO-NYT, dated February 1978, focuses on UFO sightings and related phenomena, with a significant portion dedicated to reports from Indonesia and a prominent case from Australia. The magazine also includes updates on space exploration and a promotion for a new Danish publication.

Indonesian UFO Sightings

The issue highlights several UFO observations that occurred in Indonesia during 1977, compiled thanks to Air Vice Marshall J. Salatun of the Indonesian National Aeronautics and Space Institute. These reports detail various encounters:

Arjuna Oil Field, Java Sea (March 10, 1977)

Ten crew members on two oil tankers witnessed a dark object, roughly the size of the full moon, appearing at night. It emitted a red light in the center and projected white-yellow rays. The object was observed below the clouds, suggesting an altitude of 300 meters or less. It circled the oil field twice before heading east. The 5-minute observation was notable for its silence.

Djakarta (May 3, 1977)

In the eastern part of Djakarta, several people using binoculars observed a UFO at approximately 6:35 PM. The object traversed the sky in about a minute. It was described as round with blinking lights of various colors (red, green, white, and blue) arranged in a circular pattern around its edge.

Bondowoso, East Java (July 6, 1977)

A radio amateur reported seeing a UFO flying from west to east for about 7 minutes. The object appeared flat but seemed round when directly overhead, with a yellow-green color. After hovering for approximately 5 seconds, it moved away into the distance. The observation occurred around 6:30 PM.

Unspecified Location, Indonesia (September 27, 1977)

A skipper and his four crew members reported a 1-minute sighting of a UFO at 12:15 PM. The object was described as a transparent cone with dark spots, emitting violet, white, and red lights from its apex. It exhibited an undulating, forward, and rotating motion against the prevailing wind. Its altitude was estimated at 2.7 km.

Pilot Disappearance Over Australia

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the disappearance of pilot Frederick Valentich over the Bass Strait, Australia, on October 23, 1978. The report, sourced from POLITIKEN, details the pilot's final conversation with Melbourne air traffic control.

Valentich, a 20-year-old flight instructor flying a Cessna-182, reported being harassed by an unidentified flying object. He described it as 'large and long with four sharp lights, similar to landing lights.' The object reportedly flew towards him, passed at an altitude of 300 meters, and then seemed to 'play' around his aircraft. Valentich's last transmission indicated engine trouble ('Motoren hugger og hoster') and stated that an unknown aircraft was hovering directly over him before contact was lost, accompanied by a metallic noise over the radio. The Australian authorities found an oil slick in the area, suggesting the plane may have crashed.

UFO-NYT has requested further information, including the pilot's full conversation recording and the aviation authorities' accident report, to provide more details to its readers.

Space Exploration Update: ISEE Satellites

The magazine also features a section on the International Sun-Earth Explorer (ISEE) satellite system. ISEE 1, 2, and 3 are designed to study plasma and electromagnetic fields in the region between the Sun and Earth. The system aims to improve the accuracy and scope of satellite applications by measuring solar wind composition. ISEE 3, positioned about 1.5 million km from Earth, acts as an early warning system for changes in solar wind and magnetic storms, providing about an hour's notice. ISEE 1 and 2 follow a long elliptical orbit, ranging from 280 km to 140,000 km from Earth. ISEE 2 is steerable, allowing its distance to be adjusted up to 1000 km. The larger ISEE 1 carries additional instruments to measure phenomena like electromagnetic shockwaves from the Sun. The ISEE project has an expected lifespan of approximately 3 years. The article notes the unique orbit of ISEE 3, which is positioned at the first Lagrange point between the Sun and Earth, and discusses the challenges of receiving radio signals when the satellite is directly between Earth and the Sun.

Promotion for 'Det Ukendte'

A full-page advertisement promotes a new Danish magazine called 'Det Ukendte' (The Unknown). This publication covers supernatural phenomena, mysterious occurrences, and discoveries at the edge of science. It is described as a high-quality magazine with 44 pages, featuring illustrations, including color ones, and is published six times a year. The first issue is available for a 10-day trial, with a full year's subscription costing 72 Danish Kroner. The advertisement lists several topics covered in the first two issues, including gravity, levitation, Tantra cults, time reversal, reincarnation, mythology, mysterious portraits, and ancient energy experiments.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO-NYT maintains its focus on unexplained aerial phenomena and related mysteries. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and reporting, as evidenced by the proactive requests for further information regarding the Valentich case. The magazine aims to inform its readers about UFO sightings, scientific endeavors in space, and other intriguing subjects from the realm of the unknown. The inclusion of the 'Det Ukendte' suggests an interest in a broader spectrum of unexplained phenomena beyond just UFOs.