UFO Nyt - No 3 maj-juni 1980

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 3
Volume: 22. årg.
Date: May/June 1980
Publisher: SKANDINAVISK UFO INFORMATION (SUFOI)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
Price: kr. 75,-

This issue of UFO-NYT, published by Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI), presents a mix of organizational updates, detailed UFO sighting reports, and a book review section. The cover features the magazine's title prominently against a space-themed backdrop with celestial bodies.

En weekend i SUFOIs tegn (A Weekend in SUFOI's Name)

This article, written by Flemming Ahrenkiel, details the proceedings of SUFOI's semi-annual Representative meeting held on March 22-23, 1980. The meeting, attended by representatives from across Scandinavia, focused on discussing past activities, planning future endeavors, and addressing organizational matters. Key discussions included:

• Organizational Restructuring: A previously decided restructuring was further refined, including necessary amendments to the organization's bylaws. The process of updating bylaws to reflect structural changes was a significant point.
• Review of Past Decisions: A review of decisions made over the last five years was conducted to assess their implementation and relevance.
• Official Address: It was decided that SUFOI's official postal address would be its P.O. Box, a change that would take time to implement, especially for international contacts.
• Elections: Several members of the Representative body stepped down due to increased work pressure or other commitments. Jens Mikkelsen (Vestsjælland), Carsten Jørgensen (duplication department), and Carsten Hede-gård Pedersen (SUFOI's Report Center) were mentioned as departing members. New members elected were Jørgen Bengtvig, who will manage SUFOI's archive, and Kim Møller Hansen, representing the Lolland-Falster region.
• Economy: The financial status of SUFOI was reviewed, with budget controls for the current fiscal year and planning for the next. The organization handles significant financial flows, with income primarily from UFO-NYT subscriptions and material sales, supplemented by donations. The cost of producing UFO-NYT is substantial, with annual expenses nearing 100,000 DKK, and mailing costs exceeding 17,000 DKK.

UFOer over Vesttyskland (UFOs over West Germany)

This section reports on UFO observations made on New Year's night 1976/77, compiled by the German UFO organization CENAP. Four observations were reported from Heidelberg, Eppelheim, Wiesenbach, and Saarbrücken/Dudweiler. In Saarbrücken/Dudweiler, a phenomenon was photographed. A total of 11 people witnessed these events.

One detailed account comes from Mr. Fischer in Dudweiler, who observed an unidentified flying object for seven minutes on January 1, 1977, between 00:05 and 00:15. The object was described as white with a reddish hue and its nature remained unexplained. Meteorologists reported a cloud ceiling of 3000 meters and a wind speed of 4.5 meters per second. Fischer's wife and two children corroborated his sighting.

Another witness, Mr. M., also observed an object flying from southwest to east-northeast over Dudweiler South. He described it as a dark object with a luminous edge that did not change color, pulsate, or blink. He could not confirm if it was a solid object but noted it was a flying object without sound. The object appeared indistinct, surrounded by a clear light, and was estimated to be about 30 meters in size at a distance of 4-5000 meters. His family also witnessed the event.

A woman from Dudweiler NV reported seeing the same phenomenon around 00:10 on January 1, 1977. She described the object's contours as clear and distinct, with constant brightness. She estimated its altitude to be a maximum of 2000 meters and its distance to be about 1800 meters.

The article notes that the observations in Saarbrücken-Dudweiler differ from those in Heidelberg, Eppelheim, and Wiesenbach, making it unlikely that it was the same object. However, the events in Germany had parallels in Spain and Holland within the same timeframe, suggesting a potentially unknown phenomenon.

Photographs taken by Mr. Fischer are presented, showing a bright line that allegedly surrounded the object. The article mentions that the unknown flying objects (UFOs) passed at an altitude of 1800 meters below a cloud cover at approximately 3000 meters, with speeds estimated between 180-250 km/h. The US-Forces Ramstein radar station reportedly did not detect anything unusual that night.

Taget røg af - som trukket op af en magnet (Taken Smoke - As if Pulled by a Magnet)

This article recounts an incident in Islampur, India, on July 10, 1979, where a large, red, glowing UFO reportedly caused terror and destruction. The local merchant, Debendra Ghosh, described hearing a rumbling sound followed by a fiery sphere descending from the northeast with a shower of sparks. The object hovered over a school, and then the iron roof sheets were violently torn off and sucked upwards.

Inside the school, three carpenters were working. Sunin Bhowmick, an 18-year-old, described a loud noise and the roof collapsing. He stumbled over a hot metal plate and noted a strong, burnt, gunpowder-like smell. After two minutes of terror, the red, flaming UFO disappeared to the southwest.

The fire department arrived and reported that at least 80 iron sheets were torn from the roof, some found nearly a kilometer away, twisted and detached from their bolts. The school kitchen's ovens were warped, and the walls had cracks. The strong smell of gunpowder was a notable feature.

Dozens of witnesses described the event as a tornado-like UFO. A woman named Sishubala Gain reported her body shaking uncontrollably, and her copper bracelet was torn off and later found in pieces.

The local police chief stated there was no natural explanation for the event, citing numerous witnesses.

The article includes a commentary by Ejner Nielsen, who questions whether the event was a UFO or an unknown natural phenomenon. He notes the frequent association of violent events with apparently spherical objects and suggests that the explanation might lie in an unknown form of energy concentration. SUFOI's investigation department will examine the case further.

UFO-rapporter, Danmark (UFO Reports, Denmark)

This section presents a classification system for UFO reports, likely used by SUFOI's Report Central. The system, based on the book "U.F.O. Close Encounters" from US/UFO Research Lab. Inc., categorizes observations:

• O.O.: Ordinary observation.
• C.E.-0: Close observation without special characteristics, where the object's structure or form is clearly identifiable, ruling out conventional aircraft.
• C.E.-1: A flying craft seen at close range, within 150 meters.
• C.E.-2: A flying craft that leaves physical traces, such as landing marks, radiation, or damaged vegetation.
• C.E.-3: A flying craft where a being is observed.
• C.E.-4: Cases where witnesses report clear interaction with extraterrestrial beings.

A report dated 6/8-78 - 4/10-1979 is presented with a map showing several UFO sightings in Denmark. A star symbol indicates when an observation is referenced in UFO-NYT.

Book Reviews

A list of UFO-related books is provided with their authors, titles, publication years, page counts, and prices. These include:

• Gottfried Herberts: Ufoernes univers (1980)
• Johannes von Buttlar: Ufo-fænomenet (1979)
• Charles Berlitz & William L. Moore: Philadelphia-experimentet (1979)
• Brinsley le Poer Trench: Ufo-myten og de psykiske fænomener (1975)
• Sachs & Jahn: Celestial Passengers
• Jacques & Janine Vallee: Challenge to Science: The UFO Enigma
• Jacques Vallee: Anatomy of a Phenomenon: UFO's in Space
• Brad Steiger (ed.): Project Blue Book
• John G. Fuller: Incident at Exeter
• Paris Flammonde: UFO Exist!
• Charles Bowen (ed.): The Humanoids
• Robert Emenegger: UFO's Past Present & Future
• John A. Keel: Why UFO's: Operation Trojan Horse

These books are available for purchase from SPHINX FORLAGSBOGHANDEL in Copenhagen.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO phenomena, presenting eyewitness accounts, organizational news, and analyses of reported incidents. The editorial stance, as indicated by the SUFOI statement, is to collect and process observations without prematurely endorsing or rejecting any specific theories. There is a clear emphasis on scientific investigation and the importance of reliable data collection. The magazine also promotes international cooperation in UFO research and aims to educate the public on the subject. The commentary on the Islampur incident highlights a cautious approach, encouraging further investigation rather than immediate dismissal or acceptance of extraordinary claims.

This issue of UFO-NYT, dated March 1980 (issue 3-80), delves into various UFO phenomena, with a prominent focus on "Mærkelige metaller" (Strange Metals) as its cover story. The magazine presents a collection of UFO sighting reports from Denmark, the USA, and Brazil, alongside discussions on physical evidence and organizational matters within the UFO research community.

Key UFO Sightings and Incidents

The issue details several specific UFO observations:

• August 6-7 or 8, 1978, Skovse, Slagelse, Denmark: A 64-year-old observer reported a strange, stationary object resembling a horizontal oval with a vertical tower, shining like stainless steel, which disappeared after one minute.
• September 22, 1979, Skærbæk, Fredericia, Denmark: A woman observed a luminous "yellowish cloud" that transformed into multiple lights, including a single light with fan-shaped tails, exhibiting complex movements before vanishing.
• September 25, 1978, Børkop, Denmark: A woman saw a bright light moving horizontally, described as a horizontal oval with a vertical structure, disappearing after one minute.
• October 4, 1979, Fredericia, Denmark: A 22-year-old man witnessed a large red-orange oval object that ascended slowly, then moved horizontally at increasing speeds, reaching up to 200 km/h.
• December 11, 1979, Aabenraa, Denmark: Three individuals observed a round, red object moving erratically, joined by two other objects forming a triangle, with one then moving northeast and hovering.
• October 22, 1979, Vejle, Denmark (multiple reports): Two separate reports from Vejle describe objects emitting pulsating blue-white or bright white lights. One object was seen to hover and move with changing speeds and vertical course changes, while another exhibited zig-zagging movements.
• October 22, 1979, Årup, Denmark: Two people reported seeing two white, sharp, blinking lights close together, moving southeast and disappearing.
• September 14, 1957, Ubatuba, Brazil: A disc-shaped object was observed maneuvering at high speed, making a sharp upward turn, and exploding, scattering burning fragments into the sea.
• November 12, 1977, Charleston, South Carolina, USA: William Herrmann reported seeing a silver disc and later claimed to have been abducted, during which a metal bar materialized in his home.

Physical Evidence: The Ubatuba Magnesium Samples

The article "Mærkelige metaller" by Harry Lebelson, a researcher for APRO, extensively discusses two metallic samples purported to be of non-terrestrial origin. The most significant is a magnesium sample from Ubatuba, Brazil, believed to be from a UFO that exploded off the coast in 1957. Analyses by the Brazilian National Department of Mineral Production and other laboratories indicated high purity magnesium, with no other metallic elements detected. However, subsequent analyses by the U.S. Air Force and the Oak Ridge National Laboratory showed variations in purity. Dr. Walter W. Walker concluded that while the Ubatuba magnesium is unique, its non-terrestrial origin remains unproven. The structure of the metal is described as unusual, possibly formed by heating magnesium near its melting point in air, creating an oxide layer.

The William Herrmann Case

This section details the case of William Herrmann, who reported observing a silver disc in Charleston, South Carolina, starting in November 1977. Over an 18-month period, more than 40 similar sightings were reported in the area. Herrmann claimed to have been abducted twice, during which a rectangular bar, described as similar to small precious metal bars, allegedly materialized in his home on April 21, 1979. Analyses of this bar by Wendelle Stevens and APRO indicated it was cast from a hard lead alloy containing 4-6% antimony. MIT's analyses confirmed this composition, noting its similarity to lead used in accumulators. Herrmann was told by an alleged occupant of a UFO that the bar was a gift of respect.

Val Johnson Incident

The "Val Johnson-historien" recounts a dramatic encounter on August 27, 1979, near Marshall, Minnesota. Police officer Val Johnson observed a white light source that appeared to be a plane's landing light. As it approached his patrol car, he experienced a blinding glare, and his car engine stalled. He reported the incident, and the official police report is mentioned.

Organizational Matters and Editorial Stance

The issue includes correspondence and commentary regarding UFO organizations, particularly SUFOI, FUFOS, and IGAP. A letter from Kim Lykkegaard expresses disappointment over SUFOI's rejection of a collaboration agreement, questioning the rationale behind SUFOI's demand for clear advantages. A response from a SUFOI representative, Frank Lerbæk, clarifies that the majority of the representative assembly voted against the agreement, citing differing organizational perspectives. The editorial also highlights the challenges of obtaining complete and detailed UFO reports, noting that many submissions lack crucial data, making thorough analysis difficult. The magazine appeals for more comprehensive reports and suggests that common misinterpretations arise from aircraft lights and strobes.

SUFOI EDB/Tekniske Fond

An appeal is made for financial contributions to the SUFOI EDB/Tekniske Fond, which aims to support Project UFODATA and the Research-Technical department. The fund has raised nearly 15,000 DKK of its 20,000 DKK goal. Donors receive a small duplicate titled "Dansk UFO-forskning i firserne" (Danish UFO Research in the Eighties).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Recurring themes in this issue include the search for definitive physical evidence of UFOs, the analysis of metallic samples, the detailed reporting of specific sightings, and the challenges of data collection and inter-organizational cooperation. The editorial stance appears to be one of diligent investigation, acknowledging the difficulties in proving the non-terrestrial origin of phenomena but encouraging continued research and detailed reporting. There's an emphasis on the need for comprehensive data to move beyond speculation and towards a better understanding of UFOs.

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 3-80
Date: March 1980
Content Type: Magazine

This issue of UFO-NYT features a detailed investigation into a reported encounter by police officer Val Johnson, alongside an article on the "Decade of the Planets" and space exploration.

The Val Johnson Incident

The primary focus of the magazine is the detailed account of an incident involving police officer Val Johnson on duty in Warren, USA. The incident occurred around 02:19 when Johnson reported that something had struck his patrol car, causing glass to break and his brakes to lock. He described hearing glass shatter and his brakes locking, stating he didn't know what had happened.

Johnson's patrol car, a 1977 Ford LTD, was subsequently examined. The damage included a broken headlight, a circular dent on the hood, a cracked windshield, a punctured plastic filter on a roof light, and two bent antennas. Johnson himself reported experiencing temporary eye irritation, described by a doctor as mild 'welder's eyes,' and a red bump on his forehead, possibly from hitting the steering wheel. Notably, both his dashboard clock and his personal wristwatch were found to be running 14 minutes slow.

The investigation involved Sheriff Dennis Brekke, Deputy Sheriff Everett Doolittle, and UFO investigator Allan Hendry. They interviewed Johnson, examined the damaged vehicle, and collected evidence. Hendry conducted further inquiries with the FAA and other aviation authorities, who had no record of unusual air traffic at the time of the incident.

Several theories were explored, including a possible encounter with a low-flying aircraft, but these were found to have inconsistencies with the observed damage and effects. The possibility of a hoax was also considered but deemed unlikely given Johnson's demeanor and the corroboration from his colleagues.

Further scientific analysis was planned, including radar data from the FAA, examination of the bent antennas for foreign substances or magnetic properties, and analysis of paint samples. The issue highlights the thoroughness of the investigation and the perplexing nature of the evidence.

The Decade of the Planets

This section, authored by Carl Sagan and translated by Kim Møller Hansen, reviews the significant advancements in solar system exploration during the 1970s (1967-1979). It highlights the systematic exploration undertaken by both American and Soviet space missions.

The article details numerous achievements, including lunar missions with sample returns, flybys of Mercury, successful orbital and atmospheric probes of Venus, Mars landers, and missions to Saturn and Jupiter. It mentions key spacecraft like Pioneer 10 and 11, and Voyager 1 and 2, which were designed to venture beyond the solar system.

Sagan discusses the scientific findings from these missions, such as volcanic activity on Io, the complex geology of Mars, the magnetospheres of Jupiter and Saturn, and the atmospheric conditions of Venus. The exploration of moons like Phobos, Deimos, and Amalthea, as well as the potential for Martian biology, are also touched upon.

The article then shifts to the challenges facing current planetary exploration programs, particularly NASA's. It notes the difficulties with the Galileo mission to Jupiter, which was reliant on the Space Shuttle, and the increasing costs associated with the shuttle program. The author expresses concern that budget constraints and a focus on manned missions might lead to a curtailment of robotic planetary exploration.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO-NYT strongly emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation into unexplained phenomena. The Val Johnson incident is presented as a case study with significant physical evidence and witness testimony, underscoring the need for scientific analysis and open-mindedness. The editorial stance appears to be one of seeking factual evidence and rational explanations, while acknowledging the possibility of phenomena beyond current understanding. The contrast between the detailed UFO investigation and the scientific achievements in space exploration suggests a broad interest in the unknown, both terrestrial and cosmic. The magazine also includes a call to support UFO research.

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 3-80
Date: March 1980

This issue of UFO-NYT delves into various aspects of space exploration, astronomical research, and the persistent mystery of UFO phenomena, blending scientific proposals with analyses of folklore and witness accounts.

Space Shuttle's Busy Schedule

The lead article, "Alt optaget!" (All booked!), highlights NASA's announcement in late 1979 that nearly all available space on the Space Shuttle was reserved for missions scheduled between September 1, 1981, and June 21, 1984. A total of 37 planned launches were expected to carry 47 different payloads, including weather satellites, telecommunications equipment, space probes, and various research projects. Fourteen countries, including Denmark (as part of ESA), participated in these projects. The distribution of project funding was 15% to the US Department of Defense, 32% to NASA, and 53% to other users in the US and abroad. While most launch dates were fixed, potential delays were acknowledged due to factors like "security political reasons," implying rapid deployments for the defense ministry during international crises. Beyond the major payloads, over 200 "small package" experiments, described as uncomplicated, were also planned. These could range from first-day covers to small scientific experiments. Notably, while private individuals like Simon Spies had booked space for Danish researchers, NASA denied rumors of "charter trips" for the general public, citing the shuttle's capacity limit of seven people.

An accompanying illustration shows two standard cylindrical "Getaway Specials" or "Tilbudspakker" being loaded into the shuttle's cargo bay, with over 200 individuals and organizations worldwide having already booked space.

Re-entry Phenomena and Atmospheric Entry

An article titled "Det ser De aldrig!" (You'll never see that!) discusses the visual spectacle of MIRVs (Multiple Independently targetable Reentry Vehicles) entering Earth's atmosphere. The image depicts six such warheads during a test launch of two Minuteman 3 missiles. The article notes that other objects entering the atmosphere under controlled conditions, such as spy satellite film, manned spacecraft, or scientific probes, would also appear as streaks of light, but only single entries would be observed.

Radio Telescopes in Interplanetary Orbit

"Radioteleskoper i interplanetarisk kredsløb" (Radio Telescopes in Interplanetary Orbit), by engineer Jurij Kolosov, proposes the ambitious idea of sending a large radio telescope into space. The primary advantage of such a telescope would be its enhanced sensitivity to capture faint radio signals from space. Current ground-based radio telescopes, with reflectors the size of football fields, are limited. The article explains that achieving higher resolution requires larger antenna reflectors and, ideally, the use of multiple antennas to form a radio interferometer. The resolution of an interferometer is determined by the distance between its antennas. While global networks of radio interferometers have achieved remarkable precision, capable of locating objects on the Moon with 20-centimeter accuracy, they are still insufficient for observing extremely distant and small-scale phenomena like quasars and pulsars.

The proposal involves assembling antenna reflectors, each 200 meters in diameter, in low Earth orbit. These would then be propelled into interplanetary orbits. Such a telescope, with a diameter of 1 to 10 kilometers, could function independently or as part of a larger interferometer. By placing antennas at vast distances, such as between Earth and Saturn's orbit (1.5 billion kilometers apart), the sensitivity and resolution would be thousands of times greater than current capabilities. This would enable the study of distant celestial objects, planets orbiting other stars, and potentially the search for extraterrestrial civilizations. Despite decades of attempts, no artificial radio signals from space have yet been detected.

A striking illustration by Russian artist A. Sokojov depicts a giant hexagonal telescope orbiting Earth.

Book Review: The UFO Handbook

"Boganmeldelse: Allan Hendry: The UFO Handbook, a guide to investigating, evaluating and reporting UFO-sightings." This review discusses Hendry's comprehensive guide, which is based on his analysis of over 1300 UFO reports. Hendry's work classifies UFO sightings and examines how everyday phenomena can be misinterpreted. The review highlights Hendry's cautious approach, noting that he does not claim that UFOs are necessarily real phenomena but emphasizes the need for new ideas and methods to overcome the stagnation in UFO studies over the past 30 years. The book is praised for its illustrations and accessible English, though the reviewer notes it might challenge preconceived notions.

Book Review: På sporet af UFO-nauten

This section features two book reviews. The first, "Nissen flytter med – i et UFO" (The Gnome Moves With Us – In a UFO), reviews a book by Danish researcher Åge Skjelborg. Skjelborg, a folklorist, posits that UFO occupants, or "ufonauts," are essentially modern versions of traditional folklore figures like gnomes and elves. He attributes this shift to societal uncertainty and the human tendency to explain the unknown. The reviewer, Frank Pedersen, finds Skjelborg's theory interesting but criticizes its broad definition of "ufonaut" and its dismissal of the Condon Report. Pedersen argues that Skjelborg unfairly dismisses the report's scientific critics and overlooks the work of key figures like Dr. J. Allen Hynek.

The second review, also by Frank Pedersen, discusses Skjelborg's book again, focusing on the "ufonaut" concept. Pedersen agrees with Skjelborg that many ufonaut reports are rooted in folklore and that the "space age" has simply updated the imagery. He notes that the concept of ufonauts predates the modern UFO era of 1947 and questions why the "Father Gill's report" from 1959 is not mentioned. Pedersen concludes that while Skjelborg's book is valuable for its focus on a neglected area of ufology, it suffers from a lack of critical engagement with certain aspects of the UFO phenomenon and its history.

SUFOI's Offerings

Under the heading "Er du prisbevidst?" (Are you price-conscious?), SUFOI promotes its affordable materials for readers. Two specific offers are highlighted: "TIDSLOVEN" (The Time Law), a 50-page illustrated book on the timing of UFO sightings and their correlation with daily habits, priced at kr. 15.00, and a set of five "Getaway Specials" postcards featuring artwork by Sven Aage Voigt, available for kr. 12.00 per pack.

Editorial Notes and Corrections

An editorial note apologizes for the delay in publishing this issue of UFO-NYT, citing several unfortunate circumstances including holidays, slow postal services, and internal delays. The editors promise to be better prepared for future issues, including the next one, UFO-NYT nr. 4, which will be delayed until August due to summer holidays at the printing press.

Another note addresses potential errors in received copies, asking readers to return any faulty issues to Frank Lerbæk in Svendborg for an exchange.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of scientific advancements (Space Shuttle, radio astronomy) with unexplained phenomena (UFOs). There's a clear interest in the scientific investigation of UFOs, as evidenced by the review of Allan Hendry's handbook and the discussion of the Condon Report. Simultaneously, the publication engages with more speculative and folkloric interpretations, particularly the idea that modern UFO reports are a continuation of ancient myths and legends, as proposed by Åge Skjelborg. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various theories and research findings while maintaining a critical perspective, especially regarding the interpretation of evidence and the historical context of UFO phenomena. The promotion of SUFOI's own publications suggests a commitment to educating the public on ufology.

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 3-80
Publication Date: Likely 1980 (based on issue number and content)
Country of Publication: Denmark
Original Language: Danish
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of UFO-NYT delves into various aspects of ufology, critically examining theories, reporting on specific incidents, and discussing organizational matters within the Danish UFO research community. It also includes a brief scientific report on Mars.

Review of Åge Skjelborg's "På sporet af ufonauten"

The magazine features a review of Åge Skjelborg's book, "På sporet af ufonauten" (On the Trail of the Ufonaut), published by Berlingske Leksikon Bibliotek. The reviewer, Per Borgaard, notes that Skjelborg, a folklorist, has approached the UFO phenomenon from a professional, academic perspective. Skjelborg's hypothesis, which suggests that UFO experiences might be linked to subconscious reactions to societal changes, is presented as a serious attempt to explain a part of the UFO phenomenon. However, the review highlights concerns about Skjelborg's methodology and the scientific rigor of his conclusions.

Skjelborg's approach is contrasted with the Condon Commission's report, which, despite dismissing UFOs as real, acknowledged that many investigated cases remained unexplained. The reviewer points out that Skjelborg appears to have overlooked parts of the Condon report that noted unexplained cases. The article also mentions Professor J. Allen Hynek's dissatisfaction with the Condon Commission, which led him to initiate his own UFO investigation program, concluding that a "quantum leap forward for science" was needed.

Skjelborg poses the question of whether ufonaut experiences are fantasy, reality, or both. He suggests that individuals describing encounters with aliens are often from lower societal strata, but emphasizes that the underlying theme relates to people's spontaneous experiences of rapid structural changes in their local communities. While acknowledging that this theory might hold true for some cases, and that some Danish reports might stem from the witness's subconscious, the reviewer notes that experienced ufologists believe there are multiple causes for UFO and ufonaut reports.

Skjelborg's theory is questioned regarding its ability to explain all cases. The reviewer notes that Skjelborg does not present statistical evidence to support his claims. The article criticizes Skjelborg's handling of specific cases, such as the 1965 Valensole plateau incident in France. Skjelborg interprets the sighting by a French farmer of two beings near a landed UFO as a "dream vision" related to the farmer's potential economic distress from government efforts to limit wine production. This interpretation is presented as undermining Skjelborg's credibility.

The Valensole Incident and Maurice Masse

The article provides a more detailed account of the Maurice Masse sighting on June 1, 1965, based on the book "La Nouvelle Vague des Soucoupes Volantes" by Jean-Claude Bourret. According to this account, Masse discovered something had landed in his lavender field and approached it, initially mistaking the occupants for children. He then saw two beings, one of whom pointed a pencil-like instrument at him, causing him to become paralyzed. The beings then levitated into their machine and flew away. Masse was interrogated by gendarmes and a judge, and his credibility was confirmed by his family and friends. A French policeman expressed disbelief, stating, "I don't think Masse is lying. I also don't think it could have happened. I don't know what to believe."

The article notes that the police did believe the circular pattern left in the field, which was approximately four to five meters wide, with scorched lavender plants, suggesting the UFO had left a trace. The incident is presented as too concrete to be merely a product of the farmer's subconscious.

An interesting postscript to the Valensole incident is mentioned: Aimé Michel, a French ufologist, interviewed Masse. When Michel couldn't elicit more information, he showed Masse a photograph of a UFO model seen by policeman Lonnie Zamorra in Socorro, USA, in April 1964. Masse reacted with shock, initially believing it was a photograph of "his" UFO. Upon learning it was a US policeman's sighting, he felt relieved, stating, "Then you can see that I am neither dreaming nor crazy."

Mishandling of Humanoids

Another section critiques Skjelborg's interpretation of humanoid reports, particularly in relation to the book "The Humanoids." Skjelborg suggests that the book aims to identify an "ideal type" of humanoid and posits that extraterrestrial forces behind humanoids are more likely demonic than interplanetary. The author of this section, Per Andersen, strongly refutes this, stating it is "utter nonsense" and that he has translated the book himself. Andersen argues that "The Humanoids" does not attempt to define a typical humanoid or draw common conclusions, and that the contributors have varied perspectives. He criticizes Skjelborg for treating the source material in a way that allows him to reach any conclusion he desires, deeming the method unscientific.

Minority Statement on SUFOI Agreements

Per Andersen also contributes a "Minority Statement" regarding a decision made at a SUFOI (The Danish Society for UFO Research) representative meeting in March. The issue concerned written agreements for UFO reports between SUFOI, FUFOS (Forenede UFO-Interesserede Organisationer i Danmark), and IGAP (Interessentskabet for Geografisk Arkivering af Parapsykologiske fænomener).

Andersen, who was actively involved in the negotiations, believed these agreements would significantly benefit Danish UFO research by:

1. Ensuring all Danish reports were recorded on the same report form.
2. Consolidating all Danish reports and processing them centrally.
3. Granting all Danish UFO researchers access to perform serious research projects using the collected data.

However, these agreements were voted down by a majority of the SUFOI representative body. Andersen expresses strong disagreement with this decision, finding it "extremely worrying" that the agreements were rejected. He hopes that organizations will eventually establish written agreements on this crucial aspect of Danish UFO research but fears it will be difficult given SUFOI's current stance, despite the cooperation from FUFOS and IGAP.

Soviet Research on Mars

The issue concludes with a brief report titled "De fire Mars-zoner" (The Four Mars Zones), attributed to APN (Novosti Press Agency), likely a Soviet news agency. Soviet researchers have developed a model of snow formations on the planet Mars, concluding that the snow has varying chemical compositions. Between the planet's equator and poles, there are four zones. In one zone, the snow consists of frozen water. In the other three, it is a mixture of water and carbon dioxide, or pure carbon dioxide (dry ice).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical yet engaged stance towards ufology. It scrutinizes theoretical claims, particularly those that lack empirical or statistical backing, as seen in the review of Skjelborg's work. The publication seems to value rigorous methodology and scientific inquiry, even when discussing phenomena that challenge conventional understanding. The inclusion of a minority statement on organizational matters suggests an internal debate within the Danish UFO community about how research should be conducted and data managed. The inclusion of a scientific report on Mars indicates a broader interest in space and planetary science, possibly as a point of comparison or context for extraterrestrial phenomena. The overall tone suggests a desire to advance the serious study of UFOs while remaining skeptical of unsubstantiated claims.