UFO Nyt - No 6 nov-dec 1981

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: Nr. 6
Volume: 23. årg.
Date: Nov/Dec 1981
Publisher: SKANDINAVISK UFO INFORMATION
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
ISSN: 0049-4976
Price: 15 kr. pr. nummer (single issue), 85 kr. annually (subscription).

This issue of UFO-NYT, a Danish magazine dedicated to UFO phenomena, features a prominent article on the situation of ufology in the Soviet Union, alongside discussions on extraterrestrial life, UFO classics, and astronomical perspectives. The cover displays a stylized image of a UFO, hinting at the content within.

Leder: En stor årgang (Editorial: A Great Year)

In his editorial, editor Iver O. Kjems reflects on the past year, 1981, highlighting the launch of the new, larger format UFO-NYT. He acknowledges the challenges and minor errors in the first year of publication but expresses gratitude for the overwhelmingly positive reception. The magazine's expansion into newsstand sales is noted as a success in reaching a wider audience, exposing them to serious UFO research beyond superficial media coverage. Despite a growing subscriber base and membership in SUFOI, Kjems points out the ongoing financial struggles of serious UFO research. He appeals to readers for support, urging them to contribute their expertise and to encourage new subscriptions to sustain the organization's work. The editorial concludes with holiday wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 1982.

UFOLOGI: Situationen i Sovjet (Ufology: The Situation in the Soviet Union)

This extensive article by Nikita A. Schnee, translated from the English journal Flying Saucer Review, provides a detailed account of the state of ufology in the USSR. The author describes the situation as "unclear and changing," noting that by the beginning of 1980, ufology was losing its "pseudo-scientific" status among more orthodox scientists. However, a group was formed within the USSR Academy of Sciences' Institute for the Study of Earth Magnetism and Radioactivity to investigate "anomalous atmospheric phenomena" (a euphemism for UFOs). Unfortunately, this group adopted a dismissive attitude, similar to the US Project Blue Book, and criticized individuals interested in UFOs for hindering their research.

The article details the efforts of an "Initiative Group" formed in Moscow in 1978, led by V.G. Azhazha and the author, which aimed to establish an official, civil investigation of UFO phenomena. This group ceased to exist on July 17, 1979, the same day a new group, BPVTS (Search for Extraterrestrial Civilizations with the Help of Radio Electronics), was formed under the A.S. Popov Scientific and Technical Society. V.G. Azhazha was elected president, with L.M. Gindilis as vice-president and Nikita A. Schnee as scientific secretary. Notable members included Vice Admiral M.M. Krylov and cosmonaut E.V. Khrunov.

BPVTS faced immediate opposition from higher authorities. Attempts to establish similar groups in other cities were blocked, and a planned announcement in the journal Radiotekhnika was suppressed. In August 1979, the society's Moscow headquarters adopted a hostile stance, eventually leading to the dissolution of the BPVTS group by the Moscow Committee of the Communist Party on December 12, 1979. The article criticizes the Communist Party's interference, which prioritizes ideological conformity over scientific inquiry.

Despite the dissolution, the work of the BPVTS members continued, particularly in developing methods for investigating UFO landing sites. The article highlights the advanced nature of Soviet equipment for such investigations, including Simakov transmitters and electronic bio-analyzers, which are claimed to be unique. The research also focused on "bio-fields" left by UFOs, which have been detected and found to be stable for 7-9 years.

The article also discusses the seminars organized by the Initiative Group and later by the BPVTS. Seminar "Nr. 0" was disrupted by unknown individuals, allegedly at the behest of F.Y. Zigel, a former prominent ufologist who had become a critic. Seminars "Nr. 1" and "Nr. 2" were successfully held, covering topics such as UN resolutions on UFOs, the philosophical aspects of UFO problems, and UFO observations.

The author criticizes F.Y. Zigel for his negative stance and alleged attempts to discredit other researchers, particularly V.G. Azhazha. Zigel's books are described as increasingly focused on his personal grievances rather than UFO research.

The article notes that while the Soviet press has largely been silent on UFOs, there have been some articles, often referencing Western sources like the Condon Report and Donald Menzel, while ignoring French research which indicated the reality of UFOs.

Cosmonaut E.V. Khrunov is quoted stating that the UFO problem is serious and that communication with extraterrestrial civilizations might be involved. The article concludes with an optimistic outlook on the future of ufology in the Soviet Union, emphasizing the need for collaboration and the growing interest from scientists and specialists.

UFO-klassiker: Betty og Barney Hill 1961 (UFO Classic: Betty and Barney Hill 1961)

This section likely details the famous Betty and Barney Hill abduction case, a seminal event in UFO lore. While the specific content is not fully transcribed here, it is presented as a "UFO classic," indicating its historical significance.

UFO-personligheder: James E. McDonald (UFO Personalities: James E. McDonald)

This article focuses on James E. McDonald, a prominent physicist and UFO researcher known for his work in the 1960s and 1970s. He was a vocal advocate for serious scientific investigation of UFO phenomena.

Notitser: Kort fortalt (Notes: Briefly Told)

This section likely contains short news items or brief updates related to UFO research and sightings.

UFO-rapporter: Danmark (UFO Reports: Denmark)

This section would feature reports of UFO sightings specifically from Denmark, contributing to the local UFO database.

Astronomi: Fremmede solsystemer (Astronomy: Alien Solar Systems)

This article explores the astronomical possibilities of life beyond Earth, likely discussing exoplanets and the conditions required for life to arise in other solar systems.

Fejlkilder: Ambulancefly med fuldt blus (Sources of Error: Ambulance plane at full speed)

This piece likely discusses common misidentifications of UFOs, using the example of an ambulance plane flying at high speed to illustrate how mundane objects can be mistaken for something extraordinary.

Synspunkt: UFO-sagen og pressen (Viewpoint: The UFO Issue and the Press)

This article likely examines the media's portrayal of UFO phenomena, discussing how the press has covered or ignored UFO-related news and the potential biases involved.

Synspunkt: Holdninger til ETI (Viewpoint: Attitudes towards ETI)

This section probably delves into the various attitudes and beliefs surrounding the concept of Extraterrestrial Intelligence (ETI), exploring public and scientific perspectives.

Nyt om McMinnville-fotos (News on the McMinnville Photos)

This article provides an update on the famous McMinnville UFO photographs, which were taken in 1950. The cover image is a colorized version of one of these photos, and the article likely discusses recent analyses or findings related to them.

Emneår 1982: Ufologer - introduktion (Topic Year 1982: Ufologists - Introduction)

This suggests that 1982 is designated as a year to focus on ufologists, with this article serving as an introduction to the field and its key figures.

Nyt om SUFOI: Til og fra medlemmerne (News from SUFOI: To and from the members)

This section would contain updates and news relevant to the members of SUFOI, the Scandinavian UFO Information organization.

Kig på himlen: December/januar (Look at the Sky: December/January)

This likely provides information on astronomical events or expected UFO sightings during the months of December and January.

Bøger og tidsskrifter: Anmeldelser (Books and Periodicals: Reviews)

This section features reviews of books and periodicals related to ufology and related topics.

Nova 1 UFO-detektor: Anmeldelse (Nova 1 UFO Detector: Review)

A review of a specific UFO detection device, the Nova 1.

SUFOI UFO-detektor (annonce) (SUFOI UFO Detector (advertisement))

An advertisement for a UFO detector offered by SUFOI.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the challenges and progress of UFO research, particularly within the Soviet Union. There's a strong emphasis on the scientific approach to ufology, contrasting it with sensationalism and misinterpretations. The magazine advocates for serious investigation, international cooperation, and the dissemination of accurate information. The editorial stance is clearly pro-research, aiming to legitimize ufology as a field worthy of scientific attention, despite significant opposition and financial constraints. The issue also touches upon the broader implications of UFO phenomena, including the possibility of extraterrestrial life and the historical significance of key cases.

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 6/81
Date: June 1981
Publisher: SUFOI
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

The Betty and Barney Hill Case: A UFO Classic

The main feature of this issue is a detailed exploration of the Betty and Barney Hill UFO encounter and alleged abduction, which occurred in 1961. The article, written by Kim Møller Hansen, delves into the couple's experience, their initial attempts to keep it secret, and the subsequent public attention.

The Sighting and Abduction

Betty and Barney Hill, along with their dog Delsey, were driving home to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, on the night of September 19-20, 1961, after a weekend trip. They observed a bright, star-like light that moved erratically. As the object approached, it revealed itself to be a disc-shaped craft with a rotating, segmented body and lights. Barney stopped the car, and the object hovered nearby. Betty described seeing figures in the windows of the craft. The couple reported experiencing 'missing time' – a period of approximately two hours that they could not account for.

Hypnosis and Recovered Memories

Following the incident, the Hills experienced anxiety and nightmares. Betty sought information on UFOs and found the organization NICAP. They were interviewed by Walter Webb, a scientific consultant for NICAP. Later, under the guidance of Dr. Duncan Stephens and subsequently Dr. Benjamin Simon, a psychiatrist specializing in hypnotic therapy, the couple underwent regression hypnosis. Through these sessions, they recalled details of being taken aboard the craft, encountering humanoid beings described as 'leaders' and 'doctors,' and undergoing physical examinations. Betty described the beings as wearing shiny black uniforms and caps, and one of them communicated with her in English.

The Star Map and Astronomical Significance

A crucial element of the case is a star map drawn by Betty Hill based on her recollection of what she saw aboard the UFO. This map has garnered significant attention from astronomers. It has been noted that the star constellation depicted closely matches the Zeta Reticuli star system, located approximately 37 light-years away. The article highlights that the precise placement of stars in this system was not widely known until 1969, raising questions about how Betty could have accurately depicted it in 1961. The article also mentions amateur astronomer Marjorie Fish's efforts to build 3D models of star systems based on Betty's map.

Dr. James E. McDonald's Perspective

The issue also features an article by Raymond E. Fowler about Dr. James E. McDonald, a prominent physicist and UFOlogist. McDonald, who died in 1971, was a strong advocate for serious UFO research. He publicly stated that UFOs represented a major scientific problem and was critical of official investigations, particularly Project Blue Book. His career and reputation were reportedly impacted by his involvement in UFO research, with political opponents questioning his credibility. McDonald was known for his outspoken nature and his contributions to the public disclosure of UFO-related documents.

Other Reports and Commentary

Brief reports on other UFO sightings are included, such as an incident in Pskovskaya Oblast, USSR, in 1967, and another near Kazan airport in the same year. The issue also includes commentary from the editors regarding a Russian article about UFOs, noting the potential risks for the author and their efforts to get a response from their Soviet contacts. A note from the editorial staff explains the absence of a section titled "Fund af 3. grad, del 4" due to unexplained issues at the Copenhagen postal terminal, promising its inclusion in the next issue.

Editorial Stance and Themes

The magazine consistently presents UFO phenomena as a serious subject worthy of investigation. The detailed coverage of the Betty and Barney Hill case, including scientific analysis and witness testimony, underscores this stance. The recurring themes include close encounters, alien abductions, the role of hypnosis in memory recovery, and the potential astronomical origins of UFOs. The magazine also highlights the challenges faced by researchers and witnesses in a skeptical environment, as exemplified by the case of Dr. James E. McDonald.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

UFO-NYT consistently approaches the subject of UFOs with a serious and investigative tone. The magazine prioritizes detailed accounts of sightings and encounters, often featuring extensive witness testimony and attempts at scientific analysis. The Betty and Barney Hill case serves as a prime example of this approach, with the issue dedicating significant space to exploring the event, the subsequent hypnosis sessions, and the astronomical implications of Betty's star map. The magazine also demonstrates a critical stance towards official explanations and perceived cover-ups, as evidenced by the inclusion of Dr. James E. McDonald's perspective. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to consider the possibility of extraterrestrial phenomena while grounding the discussion in available evidence and witness accounts. Themes of missing time, alien physiology, and the challenges of proving such experiences are recurrent throughout the articles.

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 6/81
Date: 1981
Publisher: SUFOI (Skandinavisk UFO Information)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of UFO-NYT, dated 6/81, presents a collection of short reports, investigations, and astronomical discussions related to UFO phenomena and the search for extraterrestrial life.

Notitser: Kort fortalt (Brief Reports)

UFO-Forespørgsel (UFO Inquiry)

The magazine reports on a mysterious incident in 1979 where a UFO allegedly forced a Spanish charter flight, a Super-Caravelle with 109 German and Austrian tourists, to make an emergency landing. The incident has prompted a parliamentary inquiry in Spain, with a socialist representative named Herzog requesting details about the observed UFO and the Spanish air force's response, including the scrambling of a Mirage F-1 fighter jet. Witnesses described the object as being twice the size of a jumbo jet.

UFO-Landing på Taiwan (UFO Landing in Taiwan)

An excerpt from the South China Morning Post (June 14, 1981) details a report from a farmer, Chen Kang, and his wife in southern Taiwan who claimed to have seen a UFO land in a field. They described a crystal-shining object, shaped like an inverted cone, about 1 meter in diameter, with blinking lights. The object hovered for about 10 minutes, emitting a gelatinous fog, before departing without leaving any trace. The report also mentions that residents in northern Taiwan had previously reported seeing 15 clear spots hovering in a westerly direction. The Taipei Observatory and the meteorological institute have not yet provided an explanation.

Laser og tallerken (Laser and Saucers)

This section reports on an incident near Stigsnæsværket (Stigsnaes Power Plant) in Denmark, where people mistook flying saucers for laser beams. Employees from the Risø nuclear research station were using a laser to study smoke dispersion from the plant's chimney. The laser beam, sent from a kilometer away, was visible and likely mistaken for a UFO.

UFO-Rapporter: Danmark (UFO Reports: Denmark)

This section provides a catalog of UFO sightings in Denmark, classified according to the CE (Close Encounter) system.

CE.0: Ordinary Observation

• February 1953 or 1954, Brønderslev: A couple observed an oblong, cigar-shaped object moving low and fast towards the south, described as faintly red-glowing.
• April 13, 1981, Nordborg: A farmer saw a clear, violet-shining light in the northwest, which later appeared as vertical dark stripes with a fog-like appearance before disappearing.
• April 22, 1981, Kastrup: A woman observed a strongly luminous object resembling a flat, inverted saucer with luminous columns.
• April 26, 1981, Værløse: An observer noticed flashes and a luminous fog or cloud in the northern sky, perceived as a distant explosion.

CE.1: Close Encounter (within 150 meters)

• September 1976, Maribo: A woman observed a peculiar object, described as a 'ball' 15-20 cm in diameter with orange light inside, moving very close to her for 15 minutes.

CE.2: Physical Traces

(No specific CE.2 cases are detailed in this section, but the classification is explained as an object leaving traces like landing marks or damaged vegetation).

CE.3: Crew Encounter

(No specific CE.3 cases are detailed in this section).

CE.4: Alien Intervention

(No specific CE.4 cases are detailed in this section).

UFO-Personligheder (UFO Personalities)

This section discusses the work of historian David Michael Jacobs and his book "The UFO Controversy in America." It touches upon the controversy surrounding the 1967 New York blackout, which some attributed to UFO activity, and the debate about the potential environmental impact of SST aircraft. The section also mentions the tragic death of Jim, an atmospheric physicist, who was reportedly involved in UFO research and died in the desert in 1971. His work in atmospheric physics and ufology is acknowledged.

It also references a 1967 SUFOI booklet titled "UFOs - The Greatest Scientific Problem of Our Time?" by Dr. James E. McDonald, which provided insights into the US Air Force's UFO policy and debunked common explanations. The booklet is noted as being available for loan at local libraries.

Raymond E. Fowler, an investigator and author of several UFO books, is also mentioned.

Fremmede solsystemer (Alien Solar Systems)

This extensive article by Tommy Christensen explores the scientific search for planets outside our solar system and the implications for the possibility of extraterrestrial life.

• Discovery of Exoplanets: The article highlights the work of astronomer Peter van de Kamp, who, using the Sproul Observatory's 28-inch refractor telescope, identified planets orbiting several stars in our solar system's vicinity. This provided evidence that planetary systems are common.
• Potential for Life: The discussion focuses on whether these exoplanetary systems could harbor life. While initial findings were inconclusive, later research suggests that conditions for life might exist in some systems.
• Methods of Detection: The article explains the astrometric method used by van de Kamp, which involves detecting the slight 'wobble' in a star's movement caused by the gravitational pull of orbiting planets. This method has been used to discover planets around stars like Sirius and Procyon, and even led to the discovery of Neptune and Pluto.
• Specific Systems:
• Proxima Centauri (4.3 light-years): A red dwarf star, considered less likely to support life due to its low temperature.
• Bernard's Star (5.9 light-years): Also a red dwarf, with evidence suggesting multiple planets, though their conditions for life are uncertain.
• Lalande 21185: Another red dwarf system.
• Epsilon Eridani (10.8 light-years): A star similar to our Sun, with a 'life zone' (ecosphere) shifted closer to the star. The possibility of intelligent life is considered, referencing past attempts to detect signals from this system.
• 61 Cygni (11.1 light-years): A binary star system with planets whose orbital characteristics are similar to Earth's, but with factors that might hinder life formation.
• Epsilon Indi and Tau Ceti: Stars relatively close to our solar system, with Tau Ceti having a spectrum similar to the Sun, but no planets have been confirmed yet.
• Chemical Basis for Life: The article confirms that the chemical building blocks for life, such as amino acids, are abundant in the universe, as evidenced by findings in meteorites.
• Evolutionary Uniqueness: The article questions whether Earth's evolutionary path is a universal standard, suggesting that life forms on other planets might be vastly different from humans, making direct encounters unlikely.
• UFO Theory vs. Spacecraft Theory: The article concludes that while the existence of life elsewhere in the universe is highly probable, this does not automatically validate the spacecraft theory for UFOs. The focus remains on UFO reports as the primary source of information for solving the UFO enigma.

Fejlkilder: Ambulancefly med fuldt blus (Error Sources: Ambulance Plane at Full Speed)

This section, written by Torben Birkeholm, addresses potential misidentifications of natural phenomena as UFOs.

• Viborg Incident (August 10, 1981): A man reported seeing and photographing two intensely bright, flickering lights in the sky north of Viborg. The lights were described as stationary and directed towards the observers. The observation lasted about 30-40 seconds before the lights suddenly disappeared. The witnesses ruled out conventional aircraft as an explanation due to the lack of sound and the nature of the lights. SUFOI contacted the local airfield, and it was suggested that the phenomenon might have been related to the takeoff of a SAS flight from Karup to Copenhagen around the same time. The report from Flyvestation Karup indicated that the regular flight had taken off at 07:30 and turned right, which could potentially explain the lights seen.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the UFO phenomenon from multiple angles, including eyewitness accounts, scientific investigations, and astronomical research. There's a clear emphasis on critical analysis, with sections dedicated to explaining potential misidentifications ('Fejlkilder') and distinguishing between scientific evidence and speculation. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging readers to submit their own reports while maintaining a skeptical yet curious approach to the subject. The search for extraterrestrial life through astronomy is presented as a parallel scientific endeavor, providing context for the broader questions surrounding UFOs. The magazine also promotes SUFOI as a resource for information and investigation.

This issue of UFO-NYT, dated 6/81, focuses on UFOlogy, featuring articles that analyze specific UFO cases, discuss the scientific community's skepticism, and explore the role of UFOlogists and the press. The cover highlights new information about the McMinnville UFO photos, suggesting a significant diameter for the objects.

Article: Viborg Sighting and Press Coverage

The issue details a sighting near Viborg, Denmark, where a couple reported seeing bright lights resembling spotlights. The report includes an analysis of an ambulance plane's flight path from FALCK-AIR, suggesting it was the source of the sighting. The article also touches upon the role of the press in disseminating UFO information, noting the challenges faced by organizations like SUFOI in getting accurate reports published. A specific incident is mentioned where a local newspaper's report was used to identify the source of the sighting.

Article: 'Mystisk lys på himlen' (Mysterious Light in the Sky)

This section reports on a sighting near Viborg involving a couple who observed bright lights in the sky. They managed to take a photograph before the lights disappeared. SUFOI contacted the air traffic control at Karup, which stated that only one plane, an SAS flight, was in the area at the time. SUFOI is seeking further witnesses to clarify the event.

Article: 'Observatørens foto af »UFOet«' (Observer's Photo of the "UFO")

This piece discusses the analysis of a UFO photograph. The ambulance plane from Odense to Thisted flew at a low altitude with its landing lights on. The pilot, Thomas Damm, had radio contact with Flyvestation Karup to avoid the SAS flight. The disappearance of the 'UFO' was explained by the lights pointing away from the observer as the plane changed course. The article concludes by thanking authorities, the press, and the public for their help in clarifying the case.

Article: 'SYNSPUNKT: UFO-sagen og pressen' (Viewpoint: The UFO Case and the Press) by Per Borgaard

Per Borgaard critiques SUFOI's policy of withholding the names of UFO witnesses, arguing that this secrecy contributes to the stigmatization of UFO phenomena and makes it harder for genuine witnesses to be taken seriously. He believes that if witnesses were allowed to go public with their names (with their consent), it would lend more credibility to their accounts and help break down the 'taboo wall' surrounding UFO sightings. Borgaard recounts an experience where a farmer dismissed a UFO report because the witness's name was withheld, suggesting that people are more likely to believe accounts from known individuals.

Article: 'SYNSPUNKT: Holdninger til ETI' (Viewpoint: Attitudes Towards ETI) by Don C. Donderi

Don C. Donderi examines the scientific community's stance on UFOs and extraterrestrial intelligence (ETI). He notes a paradox: while there's growing interest and investment in searching for ETI, UFO phenomena are often dismissed. Donderi attributes this dismissal to the scientific community's adherence to established paradigms, Bayesian reasoning that assigns a low initial probability to the ETI hypothesis, and a poor signal-to-noise ratio in UFO data. He argues that the scientific community's acceptance of ETI as a potential phenomenon, even while rejecting UFO evidence, is a way to indirectly acknowledge the possibility of non-human intelligence without disrupting existing scientific frameworks. He also touches upon psychological factors, like the subconscious influence of UFO sightings, that might drive the interest in ETI.

Article: 'NYT OM MCMINNVILLE-FOTOS' (News on McMinnville Photos)

This article revisits the 1950 McMinnville UFO photos taken by Paul Trent. It presents findings from a computer analysis conducted by Ground Saucer Watch (GSW). The analysis suggests the object has a fixed, disc-like, three-dimensional form and is located at a significant distance from the camera. The reflectivity of the object is described as similar to highly polished metal. The analysis also indicates the photos were taken between 7:30 and 8:00 AM, which contradicts the witnesses' reported time of 7:30 PM. However, Dr. Bruce Maccabee's research on shadows cast by clouds suggests that the photos could indeed have been taken in the evening, refuting a key argument by skeptics Philip Klass and Robert Sheaffer. The article concludes that the evidence supports the authenticity of the photos, challenging the notion that they were a hoax.

Article: 'EMNEÅR 1982: UFOLOGER - Introduktion' (Theme Year 1982: UFOlogers - Introduction) by Per Andersen

This article announces that 1982 will be a theme year dedicated to 'UFOlogers' by Danish UFO organizations, including SUFOI, FUFOS, and VUFOC. The purpose is to study the role and impact of UFOlogists in understanding the UFO phenomenon. It explains that UFOlogists, as intermediaries between observers and data analysis, can influence the interpretation and prioritization of UFO cases. The theme year aims to foster structured research and debate within the UFO community by examining UFOlogists' attitudes, motivations, and the objectivity of their work.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the analysis of UFO evidence, the challenges of scientific acceptance, and the role of ufology as a field of study. The magazine consistently advocates for a more open and rigorous approach to UFO research, encouraging the sharing of information and challenging skeptical viewpoints. There is a clear editorial stance supporting the investigation of UFO phenomena and a desire to move beyond simplistic explanations, while also acknowledging the complexities and psychological aspects involved. The issue emphasizes the importance of credible evidence and thorough analysis, as seen in the detailed examination of the McMinnville photos.

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 6/81
Date: 1981
Publisher: SUFOI (Skandinavisk UFO Information)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of UFO-NYT, dated 6/81, provides a comprehensive update on the activities of SUFOI, focusing on various projects, publications, and member services. The magazine highlights ongoing research, new product offerings, and astronomical observations.

Projects and Research

Project PROMETHEUS

Project PROMETHEUS is a significant initiative within the current year's theme. It aims to understand the personality traits of UFOlogists and those actively interested in UFOs, comparing them to the general Danish population. This is being achieved through a comprehensive questionnaire sent to approximately 400 active or former UFOlogists. The questionnaire is designed as a personality test to create a general profile of the Danish UFOlogist, with the study being conducted by Kim Lykkegaard and the author.

UFOloger Literature Search

Another project involves conducting a literature search to gather relevant material for the UFOlogy theme. This literature will be compiled into lists distributed bi-monthly to Danish UFOlogists.

Analysis of UFOlogist Perceptions

A project has also begun to analyze the perceptions of UFOlogists regarding 'life in the cosmos,' including aspects like the appearance and existence of extraterrestrial beings. This project is led by Knud Larn.

Summer Seminar UFO-82

Activities related to the theme year are planned for the UFO-82 summer seminar, including a study group to discuss relevant issues.

Interview Project

Future projects include an interview-based study to explore the personal attitudes and motivations of UFOlogists and those who record UFO reports.

Publications and Articles

UFO-NYT Content

The magazine announces that results from analyses will be published in a series of articles throughout 1982 and into 1983, with the possibility of special reports. The upcoming issue of UFO-NYT will feature two articles on the theme year. One article, "Er vi tæt på en løsning af UFO-problemet?" by Werner Walter of the German organization CENAP, discusses the role of UFOlogists in the UFO phenomenon. This article was originally prepared for the Provisional International Committee for UFO Research (PICUR) and is being published in Denmark for the first time.

The author of this piece will also contribute an article exploring the motivations of UFOlogists, intended to provoke discussion among readers. The magazine hopes to publish reader comments on this article.

Additionally, there are plans to publish an article by British UFOlogist Jenny Randles, who is working on 'ethical rules for report recorders.' Articles about Project PROMETHEUS are also planned.

'DET UKENDTE' Magazine

'DET UKENDTE' is presented as a magazine offering exciting content on parapsychology, fringe sciences, occultism, ancient mysteries, and unexplained phenomena. Its fourth year began in October 1981, and it is published bi-monthly. The issue highlights articles on topics such as Isaac Asimov discussing faster-than-light travel, investigations into the psychological effects of 'power words,' transcendental meditation, spontaneous human combustion, the Ellora temple, the mystery of the 'Tree of Life,' a reader trip to Egypt, and the 'Dzopa people's peculiar disc from space.' A special offer provides a 25 DKK discount for UFO-NYT subscribers who also subscribe to 'DET UKENDTE.'

Member Services and Products

Subscription Renewal

Members are reminded to renew their UFO-NYT subscriptions for 1982 using the provided giro card in November. The subscription for UFO-NYT is 95 DKK, and for 'DET UKENDTE' it is also 95 DKK. A combined subscription costs 165 DKK, offering a saving of 25 DKK.

Envelope Service

The 'envelope service' for subscribers outside Scandinavia (Greenland, Europe) is continued for 1982 at an additional cost of 15 DKK. This service ensures the magazine is sent in a closed envelope due to rising postal and air freight costs.

Translators Wanted

SUFOI is seeking skilled individuals for English translations in both directions. Interested parties should contact SUFOI.

Support Fund (Støttefonden)

The SUFOI Support Fund, with giro number 9 11 77 25, is highlighted. Funds collected are intended for larger promotional campaigns to increase UFO-NYT readership. So far, 500 DKK has been received. Members are encouraged to consider donating to the fund when ordering materials.

'Hangar 18' Film Promotion

A large advertisement promotes the film 'Hangar 18,' describing it as a story about a large, metallic object that crashed in the Arizona desert on October 25th, with authorities allegedly concealing the UFO and alien bodies. The film is set to premiere soon in cinemas in Copenhagen, Aarhus, and Aalborg.

Product Reviews

UFO Detector MFI-6

SUFOI is now offering the MFI-6, a portable electronic detector designed to detect magnetic field changes, often associated with UFO phenomena. It features a sensitivity of 500 μτ/ς, emits a summery alarm sound, and runs on a 9V battery for approximately one year. The detector is developed and produced by SUFOI personnel. The price is 195 DKK, with an optional external summer available for 43 DKK. The review notes that the detector's applications are limited due to its basic functionality and lack of advanced features, making it more suitable for stationary use than for field observations.

Book Review: 'Ensamma i rymden?'

This book, by Kjell Johansson, Lars Olof Lodén, and Lars Lundin, is reviewed as a textbook for a course on the conditions for life in the universe at Uppsala University. It covers a broad range of topics, with a strong emphasis on astronomical aspects and is noted for its humor. The book includes a chapter on UFOs, concluding that most reports are easily explained, though the reviewer questions the novelty of such conclusions.

Astronomical Observations

December 1981

The December section notes the winter solstice on the 21st. Despite the ideal conditions for stargazing, weather is often unfavorable. The article mentions the phenomenon of twinkling stars due to atmospheric turbulence. In the evening sky, Venus will be visible as the evening star, and the Moon's crescent may be observed. In the morning sky, Mars will rise earlier each day, with Jupiter and Saturn also visible. The Geminids meteor shower is expected between the 6th and 17th, with up to 50 meteors per hour.

January 1982

In January, Earth is closest to the Sun. The evening sky will see Venus fading. In the morning sky, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn will be visible. The Bootides meteor shower is expected from the 1st to the 6th, with up to 50 meteors per hour. A total lunar eclipse is predicted for the 9th, where the Moon will appear a reddish-brown hue.

Stellar Observations

The article highlights Betelgeuse in Orion and Aldebaran in Taurus as prominent red giant stars. It also discusses Sirius in Canis Major as the brightest star in the sky due to its proximity.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO-NYT strongly emphasizes SUFOI's active role in UFO research and dissemination of information. The magazine promotes a scientific and analytical approach to UFOlogy, evident in its project descriptions and product reviews. There's a clear effort to engage members through subscription drives, support funds, and calls for contributions. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting serious UFO research while also catering to a broader interest in unexplained phenomena and astronomy, as seen in the 'DET UKENDTE' magazine and the astronomical columns. The magazine aims to be a central hub for UFOlogists in Denmark, providing research updates, product information, and a platform for discussion.