UFO Nyt - No 2 mar-apr 1981

Magazine Overview

Title: ufo nyt
Issue: Nr. 2
Volume: 23. årg.
Date: Mar/Apr. 1981
Publisher: SKANDINAVISK UFO INFORMATION
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

Articles and Content

Leder: Vraggods?? (Leader: Wreckage??)

This editorial by Flemming Ahrenkiel addresses the crucial issue of credibility in UFO research. It highlights the challenge of distinguishing factual information from hoaxes and discusses the controversial topic of crashed UFOs being stored in US military bases, along with deceased 'UFOnauts.' The article quotes alleged accounts of recovered UFOs and extraterrestrial beings, suggesting a significant cover-up by US authorities.

UFO-KLASSIKER: McMinnville i 1950 (UFO Classic: McMinnville in 1950)

This extensive article by Kim Møller Hansen revisits the famous McMinnville UFO case from May 1950. It details the account of Paul and Fru Trent, who photographed a disk-shaped object. The article presents analyses from various experts:

• Dr. William K. Hartmann: A photo expert from the Condon Report study, who concluded that the object did not rotate and was likely not a model, placing it between 0.9 and 1.7 km away.
• Philip J. Klass: A UFO skeptic who argues the photos are a hoax, claiming they were taken at 7:30 AM, not 7:30 PM, based on shadow analysis and weather reports. He also suggests the Trents are 'repeaters' (individuals who frequently report UFO sightings) and prone to sensationalism.
• Dr. Bruce S. Maccabee: A researcher who analyzed the original negatives and found the photos to be valid, estimating the object to be several hundred meters away, not just 6 meters as Klass claimed. He concluded that while the simplest explanation is a distant object, further investigation is needed.
• Ground Saucer Watch (GSW): An organization that analyzed over 600 UFO photos, deeming only 5% as authentic. The Trent photos were among these.

The article also notes a similar object photographed in France in March 1954, highlighting the visual similarities.

DET STOD I UFO-NYT for 20 år siden (It was in UFO-NYT 20 years ago)

This section, curated by Jørgen Bengtvig, presents a clipping from a past issue of UFO-NYT. The featured article, "Invasion fra rummet" (Invasion from space), discusses a statement by a Portuguese delegate to the UN in October 1959 regarding the possibility of an alien attack. It also references a Soviet theory about the 1908 Siberian meteor being a crashed Martian spaceship, with Soviet official Frol Kozlov suggesting peaceful coexistence with Martians if they were indeed peaceful.

UFOLOGI: Kosmonautisk set (Ufology: Seen from a Cosmonaut's Perspective)

This section explores the views of Soviet cosmonauts on UFO phenomena.

• Georgi Beregovoy (Soyuz-3 pilot) expresses surprise that no cosmonauts have reported UFO sightings during their long space missions, but believes in extraterrestrial life and advocates for a peaceful approach to contact.
• Georgi Grechko (who spent 30 days in space) states that while cosmonauts encounter unusual scientific phenomena, they are not related to 'little green men' or flying saucers.
• Yevgeni Khrunov (Soyuz-5 mission) reports encountering a swarm of illuminated particles after launch, a phenomenon also observed by other cosmonauts and termed the 'Glenn effect.' He notes that these particles were later identified as dust and material from the spacecraft.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO research, analysis, and eyewitness accounts. It aims to present a balanced view, including both supportive evidence and skeptical counterarguments, as seen in the detailed coverage of the McMinnville case. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into UFO phenomena, acknowledging the complexity and often controversial nature of the subject. The inclusion of historical UFO reports and international perspectives (from Denmark, Norway, USA, and France) suggests a broad scope for UFO investigation. The magazine also emphasizes the importance of scientific analysis, whether through computer imaging or expert examination of photographic evidence.

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 2/81
Date: 1981
Publisher: SUFOI
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of UFO-NYT delves into the complex topic of UFOs and extraterrestrial life through a series of interviews with prominent figures in space exploration and UFO research, alongside a detailed analysis of a specific photographic case.

Interviews with Cosmonauts and Astronauts

The magazine features perspectives from several individuals who have experienced space travel:

• Pyotr Klimuk (three spaceflights) suggests that while he hasn't encountered non-terrestrial craft, the possibility of other civilizations is high, and a future encounter would be a simple meeting of equals.
• Yuri Glazkov (Soyuz-24 mission) posits that while he doesn't know if a meeting with extraterrestrials is likely, humanity will encounter traces of other civilizations. He elaborates on a hypothesis about a destroyed planet between Mars and Jupiter, whose remnants may have formed Pluto and caused Earth's past extinctions.
• Vance Brand (Apollo-8, Apollo-13, Apollo-Soyuz) states he has never encountered UFOs but believes that extraterrestrial civilizations likely exist, though he doubts humanity will meet them in the near future.
• Vladimir Remek (first Czech cosmonaut) believes humanity will meet representatives of other civilizations, echoing Konstantin Tsiolkovsky's view that life is a cosmic phenomenon.
• Miroslaw Herma-szewski (Soyuz mission) expresses disappointment at not encountering anything unknown in space, but acknowledges the evidence for and against non-terrestrial probes is equally weak.
• Thomas Stafford (Apollo missions) shares that space travel has broadened his perspective and that while he hopes any encounter with extraterrestrials would be friendly, he believes intelligent life is likely widespread in the universe.
• Georgi Ivanov (Soyuz-33 mission) did not observe anything unusual during his flight but is certain that non-terrestrial beings exist and would welcome them.
• Pavel Popovich (two spaceflights) notes the growing importance of the question of meeting extraterrestrial intelligences and believes their existence is a matter of probability.
• Vladimir Lyakhov (spent 175 days in space) recounts an unusual event of two large waves colliding in the Indian Ocean. He has not seen UFOs during his missions and believes that the human imagination can easily mistake mundane objects for UFOs.

Flemming Ahrenkiel on SUFOI and UFOs

Flemming Ahrenkiel, the former chairman of SUFOI, discusses his transition from his leadership role. He explains that his duties had become increasingly administrative, involving finances and organizational matters, rather than direct UFO research. He details the restructuring of SUFOI into three main groups: research/organization, information/contact, and report collection. Ahrenkiel expresses his belief that UFOs exist as a phenomenon that we currently lack an explanation for, emphasizing that his conviction is based on facts and observations rather than faith.

He highlights the challenges faced by SUFOI, particularly the reliance on volunteer work and the need for financial support. Ahrenkiel appeals for a patron or benefactor to provide substantial financial aid to the organization, which has been operating for 25 years on a voluntary basis.

Ahrenkiel also discusses the new format of UFO-NYT, aiming for a more engaging and visually appealing presentation to attract a wider readership. He acknowledges the risk of failure but expresses confidence in the project if readers find it valuable and help promote it.

Regarding the scientific community's resistance to UFO phenomena, Ahrenkiel attributes it to ingrained habits, traditional thinking, and a lack of sufficient study of the subject. He criticizes experts who dismiss UFO observations without proper investigation, often attributing them to misidentifications.

He outlines J. Allen Hynek's classification system for UFO observations, categorizing them into six types, from simple night lights to close encounters involving 'Ufonauts'. Ahrenkiel notes that while 90% of reported sightings can be explained by conventional phenomena (IFO - Identified Flying Object), the remaining 10% are the truly interesting UFO observations.

Analysis of a 1970 UFO Photograph

The issue features an analysis of a photograph taken by professional photographer Johnny Oehlenschläger at Strøby Ladeplads, Denmark, on August 16, 1970. The photograph, taken with a Leica camera, captured a small, dark object in the sky. Initially, the object was not noticed, but upon reviewing the negatives, it became apparent. The object was sent to SUFOI's photo consultant, H. Bødker, and then to technical consultant Hans Voigt, who specializes in butterflies.

Voigt's analysis suggests that the object closely resembles an Admiral butterfly (Vanessa Atalanta), based on its wing span and the time of year. He notes that while the silhouette might not perfectly match due to the angle and lighting, the estimated size of the object (around 6 cm) strongly supports the butterfly hypothesis. The analysis includes enlargements and tone separations of the object. The conclusion leans towards the object being a butterfly, though the possibility of it being a natural phenomenon that resembles a UFO is also considered.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the existence of extraterrestrial life, the experiences of space travelers in relation to UFOs, the challenges and organization of UFO research (represented by SUFOI), and the critical analysis of photographic evidence. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging a scientific approach to UFO phenomena while acknowledging the limitations of current knowledge and the biases within the established scientific community. There's a clear emphasis on evidence-based investigation and a call for greater financial and public support for UFO research organizations like SUFOI.

UFO-NYT, issue 2/81, published by SUFOI (Skandinavisk UFO Information), is a Danish magazine dedicated to the study of unidentified flying objects. This issue features a cover story titled "Observationsøvelsen 1980 - en fiasko!" (Observation Exercise 1980 - a failure!), highlighting the low participation in a coordinated UFO observation event. The magazine includes numerous reports of UFO sightings from Denmark and Norway, dating from the early 1970s to late 1980, along with analyses and discussions on potential explanations.

Photo Analysis of a UFO Photograph

The issue begins with an analysis of a photograph (Fig. 5) that purportedly shows a UFO. The photo consultant, H. Bødker, suggests that the object's origin is unclear and it's too large to be a toy. He recommends sending the photo to the USA for computer analysis to determine its size and distance. The article discusses measurements and calculations based on the photograph, including estimations of the object's diameter and the distance from the photographer. The lack of a shadow, despite the lighting conditions, is noted as a point of interest. The clarity of the object in the photograph suggests it was not extremely close.

Observation Exercise 1980 - A Failure

O.J.K. reports on the disappointing turnout for the observation exercise held on October 11, November 8, and December 6, 1980. The dates were chosen to coincide with similar exercises in other countries and to fall on Saturdays. However, only 5, 1, and 2 people submitted reports on these days, respectively. The total number of participants was only 6. The reports included sightings of 15 traffic planes, 9 satellites, 2 private planes, 1 military aircraft, 8 meteors, and one potential UFO that overlapped in time with a meteor. Due to the poor response, no further observation days will be organized for the time being, though the organization offers to announce local observation days and provide reporting forms.

UFO Reports from Denmark

The magazine presents a series of UFO reports from Denmark, categorized using the C.E. (Close Encounter) system:

• September 1, 1980, Lind, Herning (C.E.0): A man observed an oval black object with regular, blinding blue-white flashes descending slowly and then ascending. The object was estimated to be about 25 cm in diameter and disappeared at a 20-25 degree altitude. No sound was heard.
• October 25, 1980, Nykøbing F. (0.0): A man saw a strange flying object described as a "large bird with spread wings" or a "star that had lost a tip," with a faint grey sheen. It moved from southwest to northeast.
• September 13, 1980, Odder (C.E.0): A silver, oval object with a course towards northeast was observed making rapid altitude changes and briefly hovering. It was described as self-luminous and blinding.
• November 8, 1980, Skrosbjerg, Tureby (C.E.0): Two strong, downward-directed light beams, approximately 4-5 meters long, emanated from two clear, round white lights. The beams turned yellowish and disappeared into the terrain.
• November 8, 1980, Bjedstrup, Skanderborg (C.E.0): A large blue-green light field, sharply defined and approximately 8x8 meters, appeared suddenly. Two strong blue-green lights were visible in its upper corners. The field slowly descended behind a hilltop.
• November 10, 1980, Hillestrup/Sdr. Alslev, Nykøbing F. (C.E.0): A glowing object in the north-northeast, described as a "burning round object" with a red light, was observed. It emitted constant light and moved erratically.
• November 2, 1980, Sneslev, Ringsted (C.E.1): Two red objects, described as large pears about 15 cm in size, were seen on the road, emitting strange rays. They were not burning and no smoke was observed.
• November 2, 1980, Sneslev, Ringsted (C.E.1): A second report from the same evening describes two red objects on the road, emitting strange rays. These were later identified as a dragon.
• November 23, 1980, Grenåvej, Egå (C.E.0): An oval, silver-shining object with two curved, almost square shapes was observed. It hovered momentarily over the road before continuing eastward.

UFO Reports from Norway

• 1974, Røyse, Ringerike (Norway): Three friends observed a "star" that moved towards them, grew larger, and began blinking like an airplane. It was silent, had no wings, and was described as a mothership about four meters long.
• December-January 1970-71, Trondheim (Norway): Two workers observed a luminous object with flashing lights moving from south towards the city. They could not identify it as an aircraft.

Misidentifications and Explanations

The section "FEJLKILDER" (Sources of Error) discusses how many UFO sightings turn out to be man-made objects. Examples include hot air balloons, kites with lights, and drones. A specific case from Aalborg, Denmark, involving a mysterious light phenomenon observed on October 20, 1980, was eventually identified as a large kite with a lamp. The kite was launched from Signalbakken, and multiple witnesses confirmed seeing the kite and the person operating it. The article also mentions a similar incident on November 1, 1980, in Brønshøj, which was also identified as a kite.

"20 Years with the UFO Case /2"

This ongoing article by Frank Lerbæk continues his personal account of UFO experiences and research. He recounts an early observation in 1959, which he was told was illuminated swans, and his subsequent acceptance of this explanation. Lerbæk later moved to Svendborg and founded a local SUFOI group, which aimed to collect UFO reports. He also touches upon the controversial "UL-sagen" (Universal Link), a case that threatened to damage SUFOI's reputation due to its association with doomsday predictions and sensationalism. He emphasizes the importance of serious research and warns against unfounded theories.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO-NYT demonstrates a commitment to investigating UFO phenomena with a critical and analytical approach. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained sightings, the magazine actively seeks conventional explanations, such as misidentified aircraft, balloons, and other atmospheric or man-made objects. The editorial stance appears to favor a scientific and evidence-based methodology, cautioning against sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims. The emphasis on photo analysis, witness corroboration, and the debunking of hoaxes suggests a desire to maintain credibility within the field of ufology. The inclusion of personal accounts and the discussion of the challenges faced by researchers provide a comprehensive look at the UFO phenomenon from a Danish perspective.

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 2/81
Date: January 1981 (implied by issue number and content)
Publisher: SUFOI
Country: Denmark

This issue of UFO-NYT delves into various aspects of UFO research, including a detailed case study of a sighting, the technical analysis of photographic evidence, theoretical discussions, and astronomical observations.

Article: Kvinde forfulgt af UFO? (Woman pursued by UFO?)

This extensive report by Torben Birkeholm details a mysterious encounter experienced by a woman on Highway A10 between Ålbæk and Skagen, Denmark, on the evening of September 27, 1980. The woman, driving alone, reported being followed by a round, white light for approximately 15-20 minutes. Initially resembling a motorcycle headlight, the light exhibited unusual behavior: it appeared suddenly behind her car, shifted its distance erratically (sometimes close, sometimes far), and seemed to disappear and reappear, particularly when other vehicles approached. The woman, understandably frightened, increased her speed but could not outrun the phenomenon. She noted the light's ability to reappear even when she checked her side mirrors. At one point, the light moved to the right and disappeared over the terrain, leaving a faint 'fog strip.' The report includes a map of the area and discusses the efforts to find witnesses, including the driver of a red car with a low, covered trailer that had previously overtaken her, and a bus driver on the same route. Despite extensive media coverage and appeals, no other witnesses came forward for that specific date and time, suggesting the event was unique to the reporting individual.

Article: EDB-analyser i USA (Computer analyses in the USA)

Authored by Ole J. Knudsen, this article explores the application of computer technology in analyzing UFO photographs. It highlights that while a picture can be worth a thousand words, skepticism is warranted, especially given that a Japanese study found a significant portion of UFO photos to be hoaxes, misinterpretations, or technical errors. The article explains that computer enhancement techniques can reveal details not visible to the naked eye, such as subtle tonal variations and object shapes. It details four principles used by the US organization Ground Saucer Watch (GSW):

1. Edge Enhancement: This technique highlights changes in light and dark to reveal faint contours and details, useful for identifying thin suspension wires or subtle features.
2. Color Contouring: Assigning different colors to grayscale values helps distinguish areas and can reveal whether an object is flat, has artificial shading, or is a small model rather than a large UFO.
3. Profiling: This method determines an object's external shape and, combined with color contouring, can help identify its surface structure and material (metal, plastic, etc.). It allows for cross-sectional views of the photographed object.
4. Digitalization: This involves converting an image into digital data (pixels) that can be manipulated for contrast and brightness, similar to creating multiple prints with varying exposures from a single negative.

The article notes that while these methods are powerful for detecting forgeries, they are not infallible. It also mentions the famous McMinnville photos as an example of GSW's work.

Article: NYT OM SUFOI (News about SUFOI)

This section, written by Peter A. Hansen, provides updates on the organization SUFOI and its publication, UFO-NYT. It clarifies that being a member primarily means subscribing to UFO-NYT, with no strict obligations, though active participation in promoting the magazine is encouraged. The surplus from UFO-NYT sales funds SUFOI's operations, including processing UFO reports and research. The new format of UFO-NYT, launched in 1981, aims to present SUFOI's work externally and provide economic support. The organization hopes to gain 500 new subscribers in 1981 and seeks member assistance in this endeavor. It also mentions the establishment of an EDB-Tekniske Fond (Computer Technology Fund) aiming for 20,000 DKK, which will be followed by a Reklamefond (Advertising Fund) to promote UFO-NYT in the press. SUFOI is also seeking new volunteers, including translators and advertising specialists.

Article: KIG PÅ HIMLEN (Looking at the Sky)

Authored by Jens-Henrik Glintborg, this section provides astronomical information for March/April 1981. It notes that Venus and Mars will be difficult to observe due to their proximity to the Sun. Jupiter and Saturn are highlighted as being in close conjunction in the constellation Virgo. The article provides precise times for the rising and setting of Jupiter and Saturn for March and April, noting the adjustment for daylight saving time. It also mentions the Lyrids meteor shower, expected around April 21-22. The text explains the concept of a planetary conjunction and describes Jupiter and Saturn as outer planets whose apparent retrograde motion creates 'loops' in the sky. The Jupiter-Saturn conjunction in 1981 is described as a rare event, with three instances occurring. The article also touches on the nature of planets versus stars, with planets reflecting sunlight and stars being self-luminous.

Article: UFO-teorier (UFO Theories)

This section discusses various theories surrounding UFO phenomena. The author expresses personal skepticism about UFOs being extraterrestrial visitors due to the lack of definitive proof. However, the author acknowledges that personal theories might be close to the truth. The text explores the idea that if UFOs are indeed from advanced civilizations, their technology might allow them to manipulate electricity and other forces, rendering humans powerless. It also considers the possibility that these beings might be observing humanity for various reasons, perhaps even to offer help in a crisis. The author suggests that communication difficulties might exist due to vast differences in technological and perceptual dimensions. The article concludes that the nature of UFOs remains a mystery, and research will continue as long as unexplained observations are reported.

Article: Den seriøse udvikling (The serious development)

This piece reflects on the nature of UFO research and the role of organizations like SUFOI. The author emphasizes the importance of a logical and sober approach, distinguishing between factual reporting and sensationalism. SUFOI is described as having moved towards a more rigorous methodology, ensuring that reports are presented with caveats regarding their veracity. The organization aims to let readers draw their own conclusions, relying on the accumulation of evidence over time to form a clearer picture.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently advocates for a serious, evidence-based approach to UFO research, cautioning against sensationalism and unfounded claims ('profets'). It highlights the importance of critical thinking and logical analysis, particularly in evaluating photographic evidence. The editorial stance supports ongoing investigation into unexplained phenomena, acknowledging the limitations of current knowledge and the potential for advanced technologies or unknown entities. The publication also serves as a platform for member engagement and organizational updates, underscoring the collaborative nature of their efforts. The astronomical section indicates an interest in celestial events as a broader context for understanding the sky and potential observations.

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 2/81
Date: 1981
Publisher: SUFOI
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
Cover Headline: De ser også noget! (They See Something Too!)

This issue of UFO-NYT delves into the realm of UFO observations, particularly focusing on the contributions of amateur astronomers and a specific sighting in Denmark. It also announces an upcoming UFO congress in London and provides an update on SUFOI's data processing project.

Article: Observationsstedet (The Observation Site)

This section details a UFO sighting that occurred on October 4, 1980, on the main road A10, north of Hulsig, Denmark. The observer, a woman driving, reported seeing an unidentified light phenomenon. The report meticulously analyzes the terrain conditions along the road, concluding that the environment offered limited opportunities for a vehicle to hide or perform complex maneuvers without being detected. The surrounding area is described as characterized by dense scrub and trees, with limited access points to the terrain off the main road. The only significant elevation change is noted at the railway bridge near Hulsig. The article dismisses possibilities like reflections in car windows or a motorcycle due to the nature of the observation, including the light being visible in both the rearview and side mirrors simultaneously. It also notes that the moon was below the horizon at the time of the observation. The conclusion is that the woman observed an unidentified phenomenon. The notes clarify that the sighting was not within the town of Ålbæk and that a subsequent encounter with a motorcycle after the sighting had a different light quality. The observer estimated the distance to be 200-300 meters, with mirrors potentially affecting distance perception. The phenomenon's movement over the terrain was estimated at up to 40 degrees relative to the road's axis, appearing perpendicular to the road. The article also mentions that a driver going the opposite direction might have observed the maneuver but might not have perceived it as unusual. The timing of the phenomenon's appearance and disappearance is also discussed. A follow-up note indicates that approximately four weeks later, a similar incident occurred on the same stretch of road, involving two witnesses, and that a more detailed account comparing the two events would be published in the next issue.

Article: Amatørastronomer: De ser også noget! (Amateur Astronomers: They See Something Too!)

This extensive article, based on the work of amateur astronomer Gert Herb and analyzed by J. Allen Hynek, explores the involvement of amateur astronomers in UFO research. Herb surveyed thousands of amateur astronomers about their stance on the UFO problem and their personal UFO observations, especially through telescopes and binoculars.

Key Findings from Gert Herb's Survey:

• Professional Astronomers: A previous study (STURROCK report) on professional astronomers revealed that while many were open to scientific investigation of UFOs, a significant portion (62%) had observed unidentified phenomena. Of these, 16 were daytime sightings.
• Amateur Astronomers' Stance: The survey sent to 2,611 amateur astronomers, with 1,356 responses (52%), showed a generally positive attitude towards UFOs. Only 20% held a negative view, while 80% were positive or neutral. Specifically, 23% were affirmative about the existence of UFOs, compared to those who were not.
• Personal UFO Observations: The core of Herb's survey focused on whether amateur astronomers had personally observed objects they could not identify. Out of 1,805 respondents across various organizations, 427 (24%) reported such observations. This figure is significant, especially given Arthur C. Clarke's assertion that amateur astronomers do not report UFOs.

Methodology and Classification:

Herb selected 261 'senior' observers based on criteria like regular journaling, specific observation programs, affiliation with national organizations (like ALPO, AAVSO), and years of experience. These senior observers reported 74 objects that remained unexplained.

Herb classified these unexplained objects into five groups based on their trajectory (course) and apparent size:

• Group 0: Point lights with steady movement.
• Group 1: Lights with some extent of brightness, steady movement.
• Group 2: Point lights with irregular movement.
• Group 3: Lights with some extent of brightness, irregular movement.
• Group 4: Objects observed at such close range that the observer was certain something unusual was seen.

Detailed Observations:

• Rapporterede observationer (Reported Observations): A table shows the distribution of observations across these groups. Group 0 had the most reports (38.7%), followed by Group 1 (23.6%). Senior observers reported 74 unexplained objects.
• 66 ukendte objekter set gennem teleskop (66 unknown objects seen through telescope): Out of 427 observations, 66 were made using a telescope, and an additional 40 were observed with binoculars alone. This highlights the use of optical aids in identifying unusual phenomena.
• 7 objekter fotograferet (7 objects photographed): Seven objects were photographed, including point lights, an egg-shaped light, and symmetrical cloud-like objects. The article notes the lack of a clear, close-up photograph of a truly strange object.

Analysis and Implications:

Hynek emphasizes that the results challenge Clarke's claim and demonstrate that amateur astronomers are indeed observing and reporting unusual aerial phenomena. He distinguishes between the general concept of a UFO (unidentified flying object) and the popular notion of alien spacecraft, suggesting that amateur astronomers are observing the former, not necessarily the latter. The survey did not yield any 'CE III' (Close Encounter of the Third Kind) reports, which Hynek attributes to potential social pressure among peers.

UFO Classification Systems:

The article briefly outlines two classification systems:

• Herb's System: (0-4, as described above).
• UFOCAT (Saunders): This system categorizes reports based on whether they involve a UFO, stationary UFOs, UFOs in unbroken paths, UFOs with deviations, or close encounters including photographic evidence and electromagnetic effects.

Article: SUFOIS EDB/TEKNISKE FOND (SUFOI's EDP/Technical Fund)

This section provides an update on the SUFOI's fundraising efforts for their electronic data processing project, 'PROJEKT UFODATA'. The goal is to raise kr. 20,000, and they are currently kr. 1,500 short. The project aims to process and analyze UFO reports. As of February 15, 1981, kr. 18,580.67 had been collected. Donors receive a small duplicate publication titled 'Dansk UFO-forskning i firserne' (Danish UFO Research in the Eighties).

Article: London-Kongressen (The London Congress)

This article announces an upcoming UFO congress in London, scheduled for May 24-25, 1981, at the Mount Royal Hotel. The program includes presentations by various speakers, including Bob Digby (BUFORA), Bertil Kuhleman, Charles Bowen, Dr. Alain Esterle, Stuart Campbell, Norman Oliver, David Hasell, Dr. Bruce Maccabee, and Nigel Henbest. Topics range from the accuracy of information gathering to the connection between psychic phenomena and UFOs, and the potential significance of black holes for space travel. The article also details travel arrangements and costs in collaboration with DFDS and Grand Metropolitan Hotels, with specific prices for travel and accommodation options.

Next Issue Preview

A preview of the next issue lists upcoming articles: 'US Coast Guard-fotoet - fup eller fakta?' (The US Coast Guard Photo - Hoax or Fact?), 'Lubbock-lysene - en klassiker' (The Lubbock Lights - A Classic), and 'Hvad siger videnskaben?' (What Does Science Say?).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO-NYT demonstrates a strong commitment to investigating UFO phenomena through rigorous analysis and data collection. The magazine champions the role of amateur astronomers in contributing valuable observations, challenging skepticism from figures like Arthur C. Clarke. There is a clear emphasis on scientific methodology, evident in the detailed analysis of the Danish sighting and the description of SUFOI's data processing project. The editorial stance is one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging readers to consider the evidence presented without jumping to conclusions, particularly regarding the nature of UFOs (distinguishing between unidentified phenomena and alien spacecraft). The publication also actively promotes engagement with the UFO community through events like the London congress and subscription offers.