UFO Nyt - No 2 mar-apr 1979

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO NYT
Issue: 2
Volume: 21
Date: March/April 1979
Publisher: S.U.F.O.I. SKANDINAVISK UFO INFORMATION
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

Editorial Stance and Key Articles

This issue of UFO NYT delves into the ongoing investigation of UFO phenomena, emphasizing the need for rigorous data collection and objective analysis. The magazine is published by SUFOI (Skandinavisk UFO Information), an organization dedicated to understanding UFOs through observation reports and public education.

"Nogle jordnære forslag..." by Per Borgaard

Per Borgaard, in his article, expresses a sense of frustration with the lack of progress in UFO research over the past 25 years, likening the collected data to "loose pieces of a puzzle" without a clear picture. He asserts that most UFO witnesses are not lying but are struggling to fit their experiences into their existing worldviews, which can be perceived as a threat to their personal integrity. Borgaard argues that the field needs more knowledge than belief, and that SUFOI members, while possessing common sense and skepticism, are often not sufficiently qualified in areas like astronomy and physics to properly analyze reports. He proposes practical solutions, including field researcher courses that would cover basic astronomy (to rule out misidentifications like Venus), common error sources, photography techniques, and crucially, interview and reporting methods. He stresses the importance of objective reporting, advising researchers to record exactly what witnesses say without interpretation, and to separate personal conclusions from the factual report.

UFO Reports - Denmark

The magazine features a section dedicated to "UFO Rapporter, Danmark," presenting a situation report from September 4th to December 16th, 1978. It includes a classification system for UFO encounters (CE-0 to CE-4), ranging from ordinary observations to close encounters involving alleged occupants. The reports detail various sightings, including:

• April 9, 1978, Mundelstrup: Two green lights observed moving east, exhibiting a regular pattern of changing distance, described as a rotating stick with lights.
• April 12, 1978, Århus C: A blinding white light followed by yellowish "windows" arranged in a curve, observed moving and disappearing behind clouds.
• November 10, 1978, Vadum: Two dog handlers observed a round white light ascending rapidly and disappearing vertically.
• November 11, 1978, Udbyhøj Syd: Two lights exhibiting multiple colors (green, red, white) were observed moving independently, with one standing still while the other moved and then rejoined it.
• November 20, 1978, Kolding: Two lights, one large white and one smaller dark red, were observed, with the white light blinking.
• December 16, 1978, Blans-Snogbæk: Two coherent red lights with a black dot were observed, which remained stationary before disappearing.

New Year's Eve 1978 Sighting

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to a detailed investigation of a sighting that occurred on New Year's Eve 1978. Initially, reports of blue or white lights seen in the southern sky from Vestjylland were treated with caution. However, as reports came in from further south, the phenomenon was identified as the upper stage of a Soviet rocket (Cosmos 1068) re-entering the atmosphere. The article details the process of gathering information from approximately 80 observers and collaborating with the Geological Museum in Copenhagen and the Royal Aircraft Establishment in England. It is noted that the clear weather in some areas led to more reports, while cloud cover in others limited observations. A fragment of the rocket nozzle was later found near Nienburg, Germany, though its characteristics did not perfectly match initial descriptions.

Other Sections

The magazine also includes a table of contents listing various articles, such as "Nogle jordnære forslag" (Some down-to-earth suggestions), "UFO-rapporter, Danmark," "Indsamling og bearbejdning af UFO-data, 3. del" (Collection and processing of UFO data, Part 3), "UFOerne og FN" (UFOs and the UN), and a subject index for UFO-NYT 1978. There is also a mention of an exhibition at "Huset" and notices about NASA and UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of UFO NYT are the meticulous collection and analysis of UFO data, the importance of scientific skepticism, and the need for better investigative methods. The editorial stance, particularly from Per Borgaard, emphasizes a move away from speculation and belief towards evidence-based knowledge. SUFOI positions itself as a facilitator of this research, relying on voluntary efforts and aiming to improve the quality of UFO reporting and investigation within Scandinavia. The magazine also highlights the connection between UFO phenomena and astronomical events, as seen in the New Year's Eve rocket stage incident, and promotes collaboration with other organizations and individuals interested in related fields, such as amateur astronomy.

This issue of UFO-NYT, specifically the third part of a series titled "Indsamling og bearbejdning af UFO-data" (Collection and Processing of UFO Data) by J. B. Delair, delves into the intricate challenges and methodologies involved in UFO research. The publication is identified as UFO-NYT, issue 2-79, from the third volume, with a continuation note indicating it follows issue 1, 1979. The content is in Danish, reflecting its origin in Denmark.

The Challenges of UFO Data Collection and Witness Testimony

J. B. Delair highlights the significant problem of varying witness abilities in observing and describing UFO events. He uses the analogy of a simulated car accident to illustrate how different individuals perceive and recount the same event with significant discrepancies, even when reporting on objective details like size, shape, and color. This variability raises questions about whether objects appear in different guises or if witness perception is the primary factor. The article notes that some individuals can see UFOs while others cannot, and some see them more frequently, suggesting a potential 'witness selection' by UFOs or a state of 'receptivity' in the witnesses.

These observations lead to the exploration of psychological and psychological fields, suggesting that UFOs might operate on different energy wavelengths or belong to another plane of existence, normally invisible to us. The concept of 'mental states' during UFO observations is introduced, referencing theories by Bowen and others that some UFO observations might be holographic projections. These projections could manifest with associated sounds, smells, and sensory impressions, targeting specific individuals at random times due to unknown forces. While acknowledging the possibility of holographic phenomena, the article questions how they could produce physical effects like vegetation drying or electromagnetic disturbances, especially when a large percentage of observed UFOs appear to be physical objects.

The phenomenon of 'witness selection' implies that our understanding of the UFO phenomenon and its operation is highly incomplete. The author criticizes the lack of systematic investigation into these factors, attributing it partly to a general ignorance among UFOlogists. However, with a growing understanding of these factors, a re-examination of existing UFO records is deemed necessary to isolate and extract relevant information, while new reports must also be assessed for these elements.

Data Processing and Archiving Methods

The article stresses that collecting and archiving UFO reports is meaningless without a systematic method. Raw data, primarily in the form of paper reports, supplemented by films and photographs, needs to be organized for easy retrieval. The author suggests categorizing physical data into newspaper clippings, books and UFO journals, and original letters from witnesses, questionnaires, and field investigator reports. Newspaper clippings should be meticulously pasted into scrapbooks with notes on when and where they were published, as many reports are received without this crucial information, rendering them nearly useless. Books and journals should be alphabetized by author or title, while original letters and field reports should be archived chronologically.

While a numbering system for reports is acknowledged as useful for limited geographical areas, it becomes problematic for broader coverage due to the uneven rate at which reports arrive from different parts of the world. The article suggests that systems like punch cards and, more effectively, computer systems offer solutions. However, the cost of implementing such systems is prohibitive for most individuals and small groups, especially considering the estimated over 100,000 known UFO cases, which could easily double.

Accessing additional data from incomplete records, meteorological and astronomical registers, military and defense archives, and numerous newspaper archives is suggested. However, compiling and transferring this information to a computer system would be an enormous undertaking, likely beyond the means of private researchers or local study groups. A coordinated effort among multiple participating groups and individuals, following an agreed-upon plan, is proposed as the most feasible way to achieve comprehensive data collection. Groups like NUFON and CONTACT in England, GESAG in Belgium, and LDLN in France are already contributing to Dr. J. Allen Hynek's UFO center in Chicago, which utilizes computers.

The Importance of Global Collaboration and Data Organization

J. B. Delair emphasizes the need for a global, coordinated approach to UFO research, as UFOs do not respect national borders. He argues that by collecting and systematically organizing reports from around the world, patterns in UFO activity can emerge, making the reasons for their appearance and timing more understandable. This global archiving of reports aims to make the overall activity more comprehensible. The author expresses hope that through collaborative study groups and extensive material exchange, meaningful answers to the UFO enigma can be found, helping to define the current, poorly understood, parameters of the phenomenon.

Individual groups and study groups are encouraged to maintain reliable systems for registering and preserving their reports. A catalog with ordered columns is recommended as the best and most economical way to achieve this. Such a catalog should record details like the time, place, type, and observable patterns of UFO behavior, including effects on mechanical objects, plants, animals, and humans, as well as landing events and the presence of UFO occupants. Cross-references are essential for quickly locating original material. Reports should be arranged chronologically, with further subdivisions for multiple reports on the same day. The catalog should also include a column for assessing the quality of reports, potentially using a classification system like A, B, C, and D, similar to but distinct from Jacques Vallee's proposed system.

The UN and the UFO Phenomenon: Grenada's Initiative

This section shifts focus to the efforts to bring the UFO phenomenon to the attention of the United Nations, primarily driven by Prime Minister Sir Eric M. Gairy of Grenada. Following a previous article in UFO-NYT nr. 5/1978 by Leonard H. Stringfield, this piece details ongoing developments at the UN regarding UFOs.

Sir Eric M. Gairy has persistently sought to have UFO phenomena discussed under UN auspices. After being referred to the 33rd General Assembly in 1978, the issue was further addressed. Gairy's efforts have been supported by UFO materials, including observation reports and declassified government documents, often provided by the Hungarian-born former UN employee Colman VonKeviczky. VonKeviczky had previously proposed bringing UFO phenomena to the UN level to then-UN Secretary-General U Thant. However, VonKeviczky was reportedly fired from his UN job due to controversies, and he has since continued his efforts to involve the UN.

In 1978, producer E. Lee Speigel, known for his 1975 CBS record "UFOs: The Credibility Factor," became involved with Grenada's initiative. This record featured prominent figures in the UFO field, including Congressman J. Edward Roush, former Major Donald E. Keyhoe, astronomer Dr. J. Allen Hynek, and psychologist Dr. David Saunders. Other notable individuals mentioned as contributors to the record include atom physicist Stanton T. Friedman, astronauts James E. McDivitt and Gordon Cooper, and helicopter pilot Larry Coyne.

A meeting was held at the UN headquarters in New York on July 14, 1978, attended by UN Secretary-General Kurt Waldheim, Sir Eric M. Gairy, Dr. J. Allen Hynek, French-American UFO researcher Dr. Jacques Vallee, psychologist Dr. David Saunders, French researcher Claude Poher, former astronaut Gordon Cooper, and producer E. Lee Speigel. Colman VonKeviczky was also invited but his participation was canceled at the last minute by Grenada's Prime Minister, possibly due to concerns about the 'fantastic' nature of his materials.

While no official minutes of this meeting were released, a published photograph was accompanied by a statement that Secretary-General Kurt Waldheim had a discussion with Sir Eric M. Gairy regarding the UFO issue. The press secretary, Rudolf Stajduhar, stated he had no information on whether the meeting concerned UFOs, though the attendee list might have suggested it. This occurred shortly after Grenada had requested that UFOs be placed on the agenda for the 33rd UN General Assembly.

On September 20, 1978, the General Assembly decided to refer the UFO question to the UN Special Political Committee. This committee addressed the issue on November 27, 1978, chaired by Piza Escalante from Costa Rica. Prime Minister Gairy was given the floor to present a brief introduction and read a draft resolution on UFOs. Following comments from Grenada's Minister of Education, Wellington Friday, Dr. J. Allen Hynek, speaking as a member of Grenada's delegation, addressed the committee.

Dr. J. Allen Hynek's Address to the UN

Dr. Hynek stated that the scope and extent of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) are not widely recognized. He described the phenomenon as alien to human terrestrial thinking, often ridiculed by individuals and organizations unfamiliar with the facts. Despite this, the phenomenon has persisted and impacted the lives of a growing number of people worldwide.

Hynek defined the UFO phenomenon as any observation or instrument recording in the air or on the ground that remains unexplained by conventional means, even after competent investigation. He acknowledged that the popular perception of UFOs is linked to the concept of non-terrestrial intelligence, which may indeed be correct in some contexts.

He emphasized that UFO reports constitute a global phenomenon, often coming from highly responsible individuals and not yet fully understood, yet capturing the interest of millions. A Gallup poll in the USA indicated that 57% of the population believes UFOs exist. Hynek's records show UFO reports from 133 countries, submitted by a significant number of highly responsible individuals, including astronauts, radar experts, pilots, government officials, and scientists. Tens of thousands of UFO reports have been registered, including enigmatic and fantastic accounts of unknown events experienced by credible individuals. These events challenge current human perceptions of the world and may indicate a need for changes in our understanding.

The French Investigation and Physical Evidence

Former French Minister of Defense, Robert Galley, highlighted the importance of investigating the unknown and maintaining an open mind, referencing the French Gendarmerie's numerous UFO observations. He pointed to 'Close Encounters of the 2nd kind' – cases involving physical traces – as potentially the most reliable UFO data. These instances involve physical evidence of a UFO's immediate presence, such as direct physical impact on organic or inorganic matter, or physiological effects on humans, animals, and plants, as well as disturbances to electrical systems and the surrounding environment. Over 1300 cases of physical traces have been registered.

Galley argued that any phenomenon affecting so many lives and causing confusion or fear holds significant scientific, sociological, and political importance, especially if it implies the existence of extraterrestrial intelligence. As an astronomer, he is convinced of the subject's importance and believes the UFO phenomenon, regardless of its origin, is worthy of study.

France is presented as a leading country in UFO research, with the French Gendarmerie meticulously investigating UFO reports. Their findings have led to further research by a scientific group called GEPAN, headed by Dr. Claude Poher, which specializes in physics, psychology, social sciences, law, and medicine. GEPAN's work has been reviewed by an independent council, which has recommended continued funding and support for their research. Hynek believes GEPAN has made significant progress, with only one case found to have a natural explanation. The remaining cases involve close encounters, with some even reporting sightings of intelligent beings.

Dr. Jacques Vallee's Perspective

Dr. Jacques Vallee, a French-American UFO researcher and member of Grenada's delegation, presented his views on the UFO phenomenon. He described a new popular movement based on the expectation of contact from outer space, which he characterized as largely emotional and lacking proof of UFOs representing extraterrestrial visitors.

Vallee outlined three aspects of the UFO phenomenon: 1) A physical manifestation that can and should be explored by existing scientific equipment, with a lack of physical data or competent scientists willing to study it with an open mind. 2) A psycho-physiological phenomenon, where witnesses exhibit various physical and psychological reactions. While not directly within the UN's purview, the UN can play a role in disseminating scientific information and facilitating exchange among scholars. 3) A social belief system that has developed in many nations, fueled by a lack of serious attention to genuine UFO reports. This has led to the creation of new religious, cultural, and political concepts that sociology has largely overlooked.

Vallee has spent over 15 years studying UFO reports from official and unofficial channels in France and the USA, supported by extensive computer statistics. He has also communicated with scientists worldwide. He concluded that the belief in space visitors is independent of the physical reality of the UFO phenomenon. He stated that in sociological terms, something can be considered real if enough people believe it. The question of whether UFOs are physically existent has become secondary in public perception.

He further noted that the expectation of imminent contact with UFOs highlights a significant gap between the public and science. The lack of serious, open-minded research has led UFO witnesses to believe that science is incapable of addressing the issue. This attitude prompts many to seek answers outside of rational knowledge, and only an open exchange of knowledge can alter this dangerous trend.

Vallee also argued that the expectation of contact with extraterrestrials undermines the human concept of being the creators of their own destiny, as it suggests that humanity's achievements might be impossible without 'celestial intervention.' This idea contradicts archaeological facts and encourages a passive waiting for benevolent alien visitors to solve human problems.

Finally, Vallee suggested that the expectation of contact with extraterrestrials fosters political unity on Earth, as the UFO phenomenon focuses on human emotions. The impact of these emotions, whether positive or negative, will depend on how they are handled and the seriousness with which the underlying physical phenomenon is addressed. He concluded by stating that scientists he is in contact with would welcome the opportunity to share their data and ideas within any suitable organ.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical need for systematic data collection, rigorous scientific analysis, and international collaboration in UFO research. The articles highlight the limitations of anecdotal evidence and the importance of physical traces and credible witness testimony. There is a strong emphasis on moving UFO studies from the realm of speculation into a more scientific and accepted discipline. The role of organizations like NUFON and international bodies like the UN is presented as crucial for facilitating this transition. The editorial stance appears to be one of advocating for a serious, open-minded, and scientific approach to the UFO phenomenon, recognizing its potential significance across various fields, including sociology, politics, and science. The articles implicitly argue against dismissing UFO reports and encourage researchers and the public alike to engage with the subject matter in a more structured and evidence-based manner.

This document is the index for UFO-NYT magazine from 1978, published in Danish. It provides a comprehensive listing of articles, topics, and sightings covered throughout the year, organized alphabetically. The issue date is January 1979, and it was published by SUFOI.

Key Content and Articles

UFO-NYT 1978 Index

The primary content is the alphabetical index itself, covering a wide range of subjects related to UFO phenomena. Entries include names of individuals, organizations, specific sightings, books, films, and technical aspects.

UN and UFO Phenomena

A significant portion of the magazine (pages 5-7) details the proceedings and resolutions of the United Nations General Assembly concerning UFOs. It reports on a UN committee meeting on December 16, 1978, where resolutions were passed to encourage member states to coordinate scientific research into unidentified flying objects and to report findings. The article highlights the role of Grenada in bringing the issue to the UN and includes statements from Danish Member of Parliament Lis Starcke, who was part of the Danish UN mission. She describes the procedural aspects of the UN and the debate surrounding the UFO topic.

SUFOI Exhibition in Aalborg

Pages 68-69 describe a SUFOI exhibition held at "Huset" in Aalborg from February 5th to 22nd, 1979. The exhibition featured over 100 display panels, although only 90 could be accommodated. It also included glass display cases with UFO literature and technical equipment. The exhibition attracted an estimated 1,000 to 1,500 visitors over its duration. The event was supported by volunteers, and SUFOI's area manager, Torben Birkeholm, was present to discuss UFOs with visitors.

Lecture by Frank Pedersen

Following the exhibition, SUFOI organized a public lecture in Nordjylland on February 23rd, 1979. The lecture was delivered by Frank Pedersen, former chairman of SUFOI, who spoke about the history and development of the UFO phenomenon in Denmark and internationally. The event also included a slide and film presentation commented on by Torben Birkeholm. The lecture was attended by approximately 200 people.

FOTA - Technical Update

Page 10 provides an update from FOTA (SUFOI's research and technical department) regarding their electronic UFO detectors. The report mentions delays in production due to winter conditions and damage to components. The price of the detector was increased to 250 DKK (including VAT) to cover costs and ensure integration into a warning system. FOTA also mentions acquiring new instruments for their tracking station, which will allow for receiving up to 30 registered data points.

Coyne Helicopter Incident

Page 5 details a significant UFO sighting that occurred on October 18, 1973. Lieutenant Colonel Lawrence Coyne of the US Army reported an encounter with an unidentified flying object while piloting a helicopter near Columbus, Ohio. The object, described as 15-18 meters long with a metal-grey structure and a constant red light, approached the helicopter at high speed. The object exhibited advanced maneuverability, causing the helicopter's magnetic compass to malfunction and its instruments to behave erratically. Despite evasive maneuvers, the object positioned itself directly in front of the helicopter, and the helicopter ascended against its settings. The object then moved away, and normal radio communication was restored. Coyne expressed his conviction that the object was real and such incidents warrant thorough investigation.

Other Mentions

The index also lists various other topics, including reviews of UFO-related films and books (e.g., "Nærkontakt af 3. grad", "UFO-78"), specific UFO cases (e.g., Arica-sagen, Silva-sagen), and mentions of organizations like APRO, NICAP, and MUFON.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO phenomena, UFO sightings, and the scientific and investigative efforts related to them. There is a clear emphasis on reporting factual accounts, technical analyses, and the activities of organizations like SUFOI and international bodies like the UN. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and dissemination of information regarding UFOs, aiming to provide factual reporting and encourage further research. The inclusion of the UN resolution and the detailed report on the Coyne incident underscore the magazine's commitment to documenting significant events and official discussions within the UFO field.

This issue of "rumfarts - notitser" (Spaceflight - News Items), published by UFO-NYT, features a cover story on "Jupiter Visit No. 3" detailing the Voyager 1 probe's encounter with the planet. The magazine also covers the impending re-entry of the Skylab space station, financial challenges at NASA, and the official stance of NASA and other organizations on Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs). Additionally, it discusses delays in the development of the European Ariane rocket and the U.S. space shuttle program, and includes a reader contest on the nature of UFO phenomena.

Jupiter Visit No. 3

The lead article, written by Ole J. Knudsen, reports on Voyager 1's flyby of Jupiter around March 5th. The Voyager probes, launched in August and September 1977, carry a "long greeting" intended for potential finders far beyond our solar system. This greeting includes a copper LP record playable at 16 2/3 RPM, featuring messages from President Carter and UN Secretary-General Kurt Waldheim, nearly 90 minutes of music from around the world, sounds depicting Earth's history (from volcanoes to laughter), a digital photo library of 115 images, and spoken greetings in 56 languages. The article notes that the record has been difficult to obtain and that visual instructions on how to play it have been included, just in case the gramophone was not invented elsewhere.

Voyager 1 began sending color TV images of Jupiter in December 1978. The probes are continuing their journey to Saturn, with expectations of sending back images from there as well. The focus for the Jupiter flyby was on the planet's moons, with the hope of capturing color TV images of Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto that would rival those taken by large telescopes on Earth. The article includes a diagram illustrating the trajectories of Voyager 1 and Voyager 2 through the solar system, marking key dates for their Jupiter and Saturn encounters.

Skylab's Descent

Another section discusses the fate of the 85-ton Skylab space station. Despite earlier attempts to save it, NASA has officially given up on boosting its orbit or ensuring a controlled landing. Reasons cited include a lack of power and gas for maneuvering. The article mentions that Skylab is expected to fall to Earth in late 1979 or early 1980, with the exact time of re-entry to be determined only a few days prior. It is estimated that 75% of its orbit is over water, and the risk of material or personal damage is considered less than that from meteorite impacts. The re-entry is predicted to occur between the 50th parallel north and south, meaning Denmark would likely only receive reports of "UFOs" in the southern sky.

Financial Woes and Project Delays

The magazine highlights financial difficulties impacting major space projects. The U.S. space shuttle and the European Ariane launch vehicle, both key projects for the 1980s, have faced further delays due to issues with newly developed rocket engines. The article clarifies that these delays are not due to poor planning but are normal for complex engineering. However, NASA's tight budget means components are produced in very limited quantities, leaving no reserves. If a part is damaged, a new one must be manufactured from scratch, increasing costs and extending timelines. The space shuttle's maiden voyage is now expected in late November 1979 or early 1980, while the Ariane's debut is also postponed to at least November, though ESA hopes to make up for lost time during its planned test launches.

NASA's Stance on UFOs

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to NASA's official position and handling of UFO reports. It explains that NASA has historically responded to public inquiries with standardized letters. In the 1960s, a brochure addressed 48 common questions, with two specifically about UFOs. These stated that most observed objects were later identified as water droplets, spacecraft debris, or rocket components, and that no "flying saucers" had been observed. Wally Schirra reported a UFO in 1965, which turned out to be Santa Claus.

Since December 1969, NASA has used a single standard letter for UFO-related inquiries. In July 1977, Dr. Frank Press suggested NASA should handle all UFO correspondence and consider active research. By December 1977, Dr. Robert A. Frosch agreed that NASA would continue to answer mail and analyze any new, tangible evidence of UFOs from credible sources. He stated that NASA laboratories would analyze any unexplained organic or inorganic samples, and that the agency remains open to such possibilities.

However, Dr. Frosch also expressed that NASA has not found sufficient tangible or physical evidence to support a thorough scientific investigation. He believes that starting research without a proper framework and methodology would be a waste of time and resources, and he proposed that NASA should not establish any research activities or convene symposia on the subject, while maintaining an open mind.

The article notes that the U.S. Air Force also investigated UFO reports through its "Project Blue Book" from 1947 until its conclusion in December 1969. The Air Force determined that no reported UFOs posed a threat to national security, did not represent technological advancements beyond current knowledge, and were not extraterrestrial craft. The documentation from Project Blue Book has been transferred to the National Archives and Records Service.

NASA is aware of numerous UFO reports, particularly those from astronauts during space missions and President Carter's own sighting when he was governor of Georgia. While astronauts have reported unexplained phenomena, NASA has always been able to identify them as normal occurrences. Audio tapes of these conversations are available at the Johnson Space Center.

In response to a query from the National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena (NICAP), Mr. Carter recounted seeing a luminous object in the sky in October 1969, visible for 10-12 minutes and as bright as the moon. While NICAP found no reason to doubt his observation, some have suggested he might have seen the planet Venus.

NASA does not engage in ongoing UFO research and does not review UFO articles before publication. They do not accept UFO reports or applications for employment as UFO researchers. Such materials are returned to the sender.

Several universities and scientific organizations, along with private groups, continue to investigate UFO reports. The magazine lists prominent organizations such as the National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena, The Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal, Aerial Phenomena Research Organization, Mutual UFO Network, and The Center for UFO Studies, all of which SUFOI collaborates with.

The "Intelligent Phenomenon" Reader Contest

J. Allen Hynek, Director of The Center for UFO Studies, proposes a reader contest to explore the question: "Is the UFO Phenomenon an Intelligent Phenomenon?" He asks readers to submit essays defining intelligence and suggesting how UFO reports could be analyzed to determine if the phenomenon is intelligently controlled. The best submissions will be published in UFO-NYT and awarded a book from SUFOI. The deadline for submissions is June 15, 1979.

Other Notes

• The magazine mentions that the Soviet Union is actively engaged in listening projects for extraterrestrial signals, contrasting with NASA's reduced funding for its SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) program.
• The naming of the planned U.S. space shuttles is discussed, with Enterprise, Columbia, Challenger, Discovery, and Atlantis being mentioned.
• A brief mention is made of the possibility of Pluto having a moon, and the asteroid Herculina also potentially having one or a ring system.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on space exploration, particularly U.S. and European space programs, and the phenomena of UFOs. There is a clear interest in scientific investigation and the official responses of government agencies like NASA. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious inquiry, presenting information from official sources while also exploring theories and public interest in UFOs. The magazine encourages reader participation in discussions about these topics, as evidenced by the reader contest. The emphasis is on providing factual reporting, even when discussing speculative subjects like UFOs, and highlighting the challenges and complexities of space exploration and scientific research.

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 2-79
Date: January 1979 (derived from issue number and article dates)
Publisher: SUFOI (Danish UFO Information)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of UFO-NYT is primarily a sales catalog for UFO-related literature and merchandise, interspersed with articles and reader contributions. The cover boldly asks, "Do you have gaps in your collection of UFO materials?", and proceeds to list a variety of books, posters, and audio cassettes available for purchase from SUFOI. The magazine also includes a section on astronomical data, a reader's commentary on UFO research, and news items related to UFOs and extraterrestrial life.

Featured Articles and Content

UFO Literature and Merchandise Sale

The first page is dominated by an advertisement for books and other materials. Several titles are highlighted:

• "UFO og Videnskaben" (UFO and Science): A debate book featuring prominent American researchers advocating for continued investigations. It has 136 pages and was offered at a member price of 22.60 DKK.
• "UFO-Orientering" (UFO Orientation): A beginner's handbook by Frank Pedersen and Iver O. Kjems, illustrated and 120 pages long, priced at 10.00 DKK.
• "Synspunkter: Tre UFO-artikler" (Viewpoints: Three UFO Articles): A 60-page illustrated booklet covering UFOs, 'kuglelyn' (ball lightning), report material, and UFO observers, available for 25.80 DKK.
• "Tidsloven" (The Law of Time): Per Andersen's latest book from SUFOI, discussing the time-distribution of UFO phenomena, with 50 pages and priced at 15.00 DKK.
• "UFOs i Fokus" (UFOs in Focus): By Ribera and Farriols, this 182-page book examines highly debated observations in Spain related to the UMMO case, offered at a member price of 34.50 DKK.
• Large UFO Poster: A 62 x 93 cm, four-color poster, available for 25.00 DKK.
• "Nærkontakt af tredie grad" (Close Encounter of the Third Kind) Poster: An 80 x 120 cm, four-color poster, priced at 27.40 DKK.
• UFO Emblem: A 26 mm emblem with a pin or brooch, available for 26.50 DKK.
• UFO Tapes: Two cassette tapes, 'UFO-bånd nr. 1' (approx. 50 min.) and 'UFO-bånd nr. 2' (approx. 55 min.), featuring UFO reports and personal accounts, each priced at 25.65 DKK.

Additionally, older issues of UFO-NYT from 1976, 1977, and 1978 are offered for sale, with limited quantities remaining.

Orders are to be placed by payment to Giro 9 11 77 25, SUFOI, Postbox 6, 2820 Gentofte, Denmark, with a 5 DKK charge for postage and handling.

Astronomical Data

Page 2 presents a table titled "KIG PÅ HIMLEN..." (Look at the Sky...) by J. H. Glintborg, providing planetary rising and setting times for April and May 1979. It lists data for Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn, along with their corresponding constellations.

Jupiter is described as the largest planet, surrounded by 13 or possibly 14 moons. Its visible cloud layer has a striking belt structure, and the "Great Red Spot," whose nature is unknown, is mentioned as a peculiar phenomenon.

Reader Contributions and Commentary

"EN KOMMENTAR..." (A COMMENTARY...) by Henning Nielsen from Kastrup responds to Frank Pedersen's "Et Synspunkt" (A Viewpoint). Nielsen agrees with Pedersen's assessment of the UFO phenomenon and SUFOI's stance but argues that UFO research should not exclude personal opinions or theories. He emphasizes that theories should be well-supported by evidence and that laypeople's ideas can often lead to improvements in understanding. He also questions whether SUFOI is primarily serving its own interests.

"Det Ukendte" Magazine Promotion

Page 3 features an advertisement for a new magazine called "Det Ukendte" (The Unknown). It is described as a new publication that explores supernatural phenomena, mysterious occurrences, and discoveries from the edge of science. It is published 6 times a year with 44 illustrated pages, including color. The first issue is available for a 10-day trial, after which a subscription costs 72 DKK per year. The ad lists topics from issue 1 (e.g., gravity, levitation, Tantra, time, Cthulhu, mythology, Titanic, portraits, pyramid energy, animal senses) and issue 2 (e.g., Pharaoh's curse, astrology, dragon dolls, pyramid energy experiments, bird behavior, language of bird-people, hidden tombs, New Grange). Readers can request issue 1 via a coupon or by calling 03-16 46 35.

News Items on UFOs and Mars

Page 4 contains two news snippets:

1. Vladimir Migulin's Statement: A report from Politiken (January 14, 1979) states that Vladimir Migulin, a corresponding member of the Soviet Academy of Sciences, said in Moscow that UFOs are caused by explainable phenomena like auroras and satellites, and are not visits from other planets.
2. Mars Betting: A report from Lolland-Falsters Folketidende (January 13, 1979) mentions bookmaker Dan Butler in Birmingham, UK, who had to reduce his odds on small green Martians landing on Earth within the year from 50-1 to 20-1 due to an overwhelming number of bets. He attributes this interest to observations of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) over Australia and New Zealand, noting that the betting started as a joke but has become a widespread phenomenon among Britons.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO-NYT leans heavily towards promoting and selling UFO-related materials, suggesting a commercial aspect to the organization's activities. The inclusion of reader contributions like Henning Nielsen's commentary indicates an openness to debate and diverse opinions within the UFO community, though Nielsen's critique suggests a potential for internal discussion about the direction of SUFOI. The news items present contrasting views on UFOs: the Soviet scientific establishment dismisses them as natural phenomena, while public interest, fueled by alleged sightings and bookmaker odds, remains high. The magazine also promotes a new publication, "Det Ukendte," indicating an interest in broader paranormal and unexplained phenomena beyond just UFOs.