UFO Nyt - No 2 mar-apr 1982

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO nyt
Issue: Nr. 2
Volume: 24. årg.
Date: March/April 1982
Publisher: SKANDINAVISK UFO INFORMATION
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of UFO nyt delves into several significant topics within the UFO phenomenon, including a classic case, the ethics of witness disclosure, and the nature of UFO evidence.

Editorial and Staff Changes

The issue begins with an editorial by Henrik Pedersen, announcing his new role as editor of UFO nyt. He expresses gratitude to the former editor, Iver O. Kjems, for his 14 years of service and dedication. Pedersen also highlights the upcoming 75th birthday and 25th anniversary within SUFOI of X. P. Madsen, acknowledging his significant contributions to the organization.

Debate: Anonymity vs. Public Disclosure of Witnesses

A central theme explored in this issue is the debate surrounding the anonymity of UFO witnesses. Ole J. Knudsen, head of SUFOI's Alarmcentral, argues for a more open approach, suggesting that revealing witness names could enhance SUFOI's credibility and potentially encourage more people to report sightings. He counters arguments that anonymity is crucial for protecting witnesses from ridicule or psychological pressure, citing his experience with journalists and the varying reactions of the public.

Torben Birkeholm, in a separate article, takes a contrasting stance, advocating for the protection of witness anonymity. He argues against the idea of mandatory public disclosure, citing instances where witnesses have faced negative reactions and ridicule, particularly from older individuals with less prior knowledge of UFO phenomena. Birkeholm suggests that a lack of knowledge about UFOs contributes to a "UFOlogiske tabu" (UFOological taboo) and that public disclosure without proper context can be detrimental. He proposes that increasing factual information about UFO phenomena in general, rather than focusing on individual witness identities, is a more effective way to break down this taboo. He also touches upon the experiences of witnesses who appeared on a TV program, noting mixed reactions and the potential for negative consequences.

UFO-Klassiker: The Kelly-Hopkinsville, 1955 Case

This section provides a detailed account of the famous Kelly-Hopkinsville encounter. Written by Kim Møller Hansen, it describes the events of the night between August 21 and 22, 1955, when a farm in Kelly, Kentucky, was reportedly besieged by small, "little people" with large, luminous eyes and claw-like hands. The article details the testimonies of the Lankford family and their guests, including the landing of a UFO, the appearance of the beings, and the residents' attempts to defend themselves with firearms. The physical characteristics of the beings are described, along with their movements and apparent abilities, such as hovering and retreating when threatened. The aftermath, including the involvement of local authorities and the press, is also touched upon.

Other Articles and Features

• Observation I 1917 – A Veteran Tells: This short piece presents a personal account of a UFO observation made by a veteran in 1917.
• UFOs on Film: Evidence?: This article investigates the use of film as evidence for UFO sightings, questioning its validity and exploring the challenges in analyzing such material.
• Activities: UFO Observation Tours: This section likely details organized tours or events related to UFO observation.
• UFO Reports: Denmark: A compilation of UFO reports from Denmark.
• Year of the UFO 1982: Ufologists - The UFO Case - A Pastime: This article reflects on the role and perception of ufologists and the UFO phenomenon as a hobby or field of study.
• UFO-NYT 1981: Table of Contents: A listing of the contents from the previous year's issues.
• A Ufologist Tells: In Times Long Past: Another personal account from a ufologist sharing historical experiences.
• Australia: RAAF Investigations: This section likely covers investigations into UFO sightings conducted by the Royal Australian Air Force.
• What are UFOs?: An article exploring the definition and nature of UFOs.
• Magasin 2000 Interview: UFOs are a Reality for Me: An interview with an individual who considers UFOs to be a reality.
• News Briefs: Short, miscellaneous news items related to UFOs.
• News about SUFOI: To and From Members: Updates on the activities and communications within the SUFOI organization.
• Looking at the Sky: April/May: Astronomical or observational information for the upcoming months.
• Space Travel: In Brief: A short piece on space travel.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the credibility of UFO evidence, the psychological and social impact of UFO sightings on witnesses, and the role of organizations like SUFOI in collecting and disseminating information. The magazine appears to adopt a stance of open inquiry, presenting various viewpoints on controversial topics like witness anonymity and the interpretation of UFO phenomena. While acknowledging the importance of scientific investigation, it also gives space to personal testimonies and historical accounts, reflecting a broad interest in the subject matter. The editorial emphasizes the need for careful consideration of witness privacy while also striving for greater transparency and credibility in reporting UFO-related events.

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 2/82
Volume: 1982
Date: February 1982
Publisher: SUFOI (Scandinavian UFO Information)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of UFO-NYT features a provocative article by Per Andersen titled "UFO-sagen – et tidsfordriv?" (The UFO Case – A Pastime?), which critically examines the motivations of UFOlogists. The magazine also includes a personal account of UFO sightings by X. P. Madsen and an article on UFO investigations in Australia by William C. Chalker.

UFO-sagen – et tidsfordriv?

Per Andersen's article argues that the primary motivation for many individuals involved in UFOlogy is not a genuine desire to solve the UFO phenomenon, but rather a hobby or a pastime. He categorizes Danish UFO enthusiasts into three groups: local activists, active members of larger organizations (like SUFOI and FUFOS), and the leadership of these organizations. Andersen suggests that while the stated goal is to 'solve the UFO problem,' the reality is often driven by personal ambitions, the desire for social interaction (coffee clubs), and the need for publicity.

He criticizes Danish UFO organizations, particularly SUFOI and FUFOS, for prioritizing public relations and publishing expensive magazines over actual research. Andersen points out that the research aspect is often neglected, with members more interested in discussing the 'news' and maintaining their hobby. He notes that even when tasks are assigned, they are often based on personal interests rather than the needs of the organization or the UFO cause.

The article contrasts this with the ideal of scientific research, where tasks are assigned based on organizational needs. Andersen highlights that the leadership of these organizations also seems to be caught in administrative work rather than strategic research planning. He quotes Flemming Ahrenkiel, former chairman of SUFOI, who mused that if the UFO problem were solved, the organization might lose its existential purpose.

Andersen also briefly discusses the organization IGAP, suggesting it is the only Danish UFO organization that comes closest to fulfilling its stated purpose, which includes fostering understanding and compassion, although its direct focus on UFOs is less pronounced.

In his conclusion, Andersen reiterates that UFOlogy is largely a hobby, a pleasant pastime that allows individuals to cultivate personal interests and ambitions. He suggests that this is why, even after decades of involvement, little progress has been made in truly understanding the phenomenon, implying a collective reluctance to move beyond the hobby aspect.

En ufolog fortæller: I gamle, længst forsvundne tid

Written by X. P. Madsen, this section recounts his personal UFO sightings and his early involvement in UFO research. Madsen describes his first sighting in 1917 as a 10-year-old boy, observing a silent, pipe-like object. He recounts another sighting in 1934-35 of a bright light moving over the Øresund, and a more detailed observation on January 5, 1949, of an orange-red, spherical object that exhibited unusual light and movement patterns. This sighting led to contact with the Danish Defense Intelligence Service, who considered the possibility of it being a test of a rocket weapon, though Madsen notes the object was completely silent, unlike rockets.

Madsen details his growing interest in UFO phenomena, spurred by press reports of 'ghost rockets' and Kenneth Arnold's famous 1947 sighting. He began his organized UFO research in 1958, emphasizing the dedication and personal sacrifice (time and money) required by early UFO researchers. He contrasts this with what he perceives as a more cautious and less direct approach by some contemporary UFO researchers.

He recounts a specific incident on March 19, 1961, where he, his wife, and son, along with two other gentlemen, observed a bright orange light that transformed into various shapes and colors, exhibiting rapid, erratic movements before disappearing. This observation was corroborated by other witnesses and led to a report being sent to the Rapportcentralen (Reporting Center), which indicated detector alerts in Dragør at the same time.

RAAF-undersøgelser (Australia)

This article by William C. Chalker, a representative for MUFON in Australia, discusses the investigations into unusual aerial phenomena by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). Chalker explains that the RAAF took responsibility for these investigations in the early 1950s, mirroring similar actions by the British and US governments. The RAAF's policy was heavily influenced by the Condon Report, which concluded that UFO studies had not contributed to scientific knowledge and further extensive research was unlikely to be justified.

Despite these conclusions, the RAAF continued to investigate UFO reports as a service to the public, aiming to alleviate public concern and fear. The article notes that while most reports could be explained, a small fraction remained unexplained due to insufficient information or the limitations of current scientific understanding. The investigation process involved initial screening at military air bases, followed by further inquiry by intelligence officers, who would then contact the observers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the critical examination of UFOlogy and the motivations of those involved. Per Andersen's article strongly suggests that UFOlogy has largely devolved into a hobby and a publicity-driven activity, with genuine research taking a backseat. The editorial stance, as reflected in the publication of Andersen's article and the critical tone regarding the research efforts of organizations like SUFOI, appears to be one of skepticism towards the current state of UFOlogy, questioning whether the pursuit of the phenomenon is truly about uncovering truth or simply maintaining a personal interest and social circle.

The inclusion of historical personal accounts by X. P. Madsen serves to highlight the dedication of early researchers, potentially contrasting it with the perceived lack of rigorous investigation in the present day. The article on Australian RAAF investigations further reinforces a governmental perspective that, while acknowledging unexplained phenomena, emphasizes the limitations of UFO research in yielding significant scientific breakthroughs.

This issue of UFO-NYT, dated 2/82, features a cover story titled "UFOer PÅ FILM Bevismateriale?" (UFOs on Film: Evidence?) by Ole Henningsen. The magazine delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, including witness testimonies, official investigations, photographic and film evidence, and theoretical discussions.

RAAF Investigations and Witness Accounts

The magazine begins by detailing the investigation process of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) into UFO reports. It highlights the RAAF's report schema, which collects data for initial investigation. The article critiques the RAAF's explanations for many observations, calling them "an insult to the scientific method" and "unsatisfactory." It presents specific cases, such as the observation by Pastor Lionel Browning and his wife on October 10, 1960, near Cressy, Australia. They described a grey cigar-shaped object followed by smaller discs. The RAAF's explanation of "driving clouds" due to meteorological conditions is challenged by Dr. McDonald, a leading physicist, who found the explanation scientifically unsound.

Further cases discussed include a strange phenomenon near Moe, Victoria, on February 15, 1963, described by witness Charles Brew as a "tornado"-like object. Another incident occurred on July 19, 1965, near Vaucluse, Sydney, where Denis Crowe reported a large disc-shaped object on the beach. The article notes that the RAAF's official explanations for these events are often insufficient, leading to the classification of many cases as "unidentified."

UFO Film Evidence

Ole Henningsen's article series on "UFOs on Film" begins by discussing the challenges of using film as evidence. While many UFO films exist, few have undergone rigorous analysis. The article mentions several instances of UFO filming:

• February 23, 1949, Antarctica: Commander Augusto Orrego reported mysterious objects and claimed photographic evidence, though copies were reportedly classified as secret.
• October 23, 1949, Norwood, Ohio, USA: This date is associated with a series of observations and experiments involving a large object and smaller emerging objects, with 75 feet of black and white film taken.
• April 27, 1950, White Sands, New Mexico, USA: A flying dark object was observed and filmed using a photo-theodolite.
• May 29, 1950, White Sands, New Mexico, USA: Two photo-theodolites filmed bright points of light.
• July 14, 1951, White Sands, New Mexico, USA: A UFO was tracked.
• April 24, 1949, White Sands, New Mexico, USA: A balloon crew observed and described an elliptical, shiny white object moving at high speed, though no film was taken.

The article notes that many UFO films are made by amateurs and that the quality and authenticity can be difficult to assess. It also mentions the use of photo-theodolites, instruments designed to track objects in the sky.

Synspunkt: What are UFOs?

Frank Pedersen contributes a "Synspunkt" (Viewpoint) piece discussing the nature of UFOs and the stance of the Danish UFO organization SUFOI. He criticizes SUFOI's leadership, particularly Per Andersen, for what he perceives as a lack of engagement with hypotheses and theories about UFOs. Pedersen argues that to understand the phenomenon, one must be willing to ask questions, form hypotheses, and test them, even if they are unconventional. He defends the idea of "belief" or "trust" in theories, provided it is done with critical thinking and a willingness to abandon them if evidence contradicts them.

Pedersen also touches upon the concept of "ujordisk intelligens" (non-terrestrial intelligence) and the fear some UFO enthusiasts have of religious infiltration. He quotes Dr. J. Allen Hynek, who acknowledges the difficulty of ignoring data, even if it pertains to UFO occupants, and the need to confront possibilities without prejudice.

Interview with Dr. R. Leo Sprinkle

The magazine features an interview with Dr. R. Leo Sprinkle, a psychologist and director of an institute for counseling and testing at the University of Wyoming. Dr. Sprinkle has been researching UFOs since 1950 and, along with Professor James Harder, has investigated over 100 UFO observations and abductions using hypnotic regression. He states he is now convinced of the authenticity of these phenomena.

Dr. Sprinkle recounts his own UFO sightings, which initially made him dismissive of the topic. However, his continued encounters led him to study UFOs seriously. He has observed UFOs that appear as daylight discs and nighttime lights, and notes that they can affect the environment, such as causing TV interference. He believes that the patterns observed across thousands of reports point to the reality of an unknown phenomenon and that witnessing a UFO often radically changes a person's perspective.

Regarding government secrecy, Dr. Sprinkle believes there is a tactic of "secrecy and withholding" of information about UFOs. He references Dr. James McDonald's findings and notes that politicians who promised to investigate UFOs, like Gerald Ford and Jimmy Carter, did not follow through after assuming higher office, suggesting either political priorities or the influence of a "power group" hindering information release.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue consistently emphasizes the need for critical examination of UFO reports and explanations. It highlights the limitations of official explanations, particularly those provided by the RAAF, and champions the importance of scientific inquiry and the formation of hypotheses. The magazine presents a range of evidence, from witness testimonies to photographic and film data, while acknowledging the difficulties in definitive proof. The interview with Dr. Sprinkle underscores the growing conviction among researchers about the reality of UFO phenomena and the potential for government obfuscation. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, encouraging readers to form their own conclusions based on the presented evidence.

This issue of UFO-NYT, dated 2/82, features a cover story titled 'Supplér din viden om UFO-sagen...' which offers a selection of books and items for sale to enhance readers' knowledge of UFO phenomena. The magazine includes interviews, reports, and articles on UFO sightings, research, and related scientific and astronomical topics.

Interview with R.L.S.

The magazine opens with an interview featuring R.L.S. discussing the Danish perspective on the CIA's alleged secrecy regarding UFO information. R.L.S. speculates that the CIA might be withholding information to prevent public panic or because they themselves lack definitive answers. The interviewee also addresses the criticism faced by serious UFO researchers from some scientists who believe humanity already possesses sufficient technological understanding and that UFO reports often come from untrained individuals. R.L.S. suggests that these scientists might fear the possibility of more intelligent extraterrestrial life.

Book and Media Offerings

A significant portion of the first page is dedicated to promoting various UFO-related literature and media. Books reviewed include:

• 'Tidsloven' by Per Andersen, exploring the timing of UFO sightings.
• 'Projekt UFODATA' by Per Andersen, detailing an electronic data processing system for UFO/IFO reports.
• 'UFO-detektorer' by Hans Voigt, a guide to using UFO detectors.
• 'UFOer over New Zealand' by Kim Møller Hansen, recounting a 1978 New Zealand sighting.
• 'UFO'er tæt på' by Sherman J. Larsen, a factual overview of UFO phenomena.
• 'UFOer - top secret?' by Willy Wegner, discussing the historical development of the UFO scene in America.

Additionally, a UFO emblem, a radio play cassette of Orson Welles' 'The War of the Worlds' (based on H. G. Wells' novel), and a double album titled 'UFO Encounters' featuring interviews with notable figures like Jimmy Carter and Allen Hynek are offered. Artwork by Sven Aage Voigt, including postcards and original graphics titled 'Det overvældende lys', is also available.

UFO-statistik fra Tasmanien

A report details a 12-page UFO catalog and statistics from the Tasmanian UFO Investigation Centre (TUFOIC). Based on 370 reports from 1948-1980, the typical UFO observed is described as a white/red night light, most frequently seen in the winter half-year between 8 PM and midnight, often by couples aged 21-30. UFO activity showed a significant increase in the 1970s, peaking in 1974.

Vimana'er i reklamens tjeneste

This section notes the ancient Indian concept of 'Vimana's', flying vehicles described in ancient texts as capable of outmaneuvering modern fighter jets. The article points out that these ancient concepts are now being used in advertising, citing an Air India advertisement that promotes flying as an age-old Indian art.

Kuglelyn? (Ball Lightning?)

An account from the journal 'Weather' (1964) describes a strange phenomenon observed on November 10, 1940. The author was enveloped in total darkness and saw a ball of light, about 60 cm in diameter, with a faint blue-green color composed of light rays. It hovered for three seconds before flying away, causing significant damage to a building. The author notes that he was not particularly alarmed, possibly due to the ongoing bombings in Coventry at the time.

Nærkontakt af 4. grad (Close Encounter of the 4th Kind)

This article discusses a reported UFO abduction case involving Frank Fontaine in Cergy-Pontoise, France, in November 1978. Fontaine claimed to have been taken by UFO occupants for a week and had arranged a reunion meeting for August 15, 1980. Over 2000 people gathered for this event, but the promised encounter did not occur, leading to disappointment and classifying it as a 'false' close encounter.

Samarbejde i Storbritannien (Cooperation in Great Britain)

The article highlights the efforts to foster cooperation among various UFO organizations in the UK. It mentions the formation of 'Northern UFO Network' (NUFON) in 1974, comprising 15 local groups, and 'MAUFOG' in 1979, covering southern England. The two umbrella organizations met in February 1981 to discuss reporting ethics, with representatives from BUFORA and UK CONTACT also attending. The trend indicates a growing desire for collaboration despite differing views.

Himmel og jord! (Heaven and Earth!)

This section explores the connection between mysterious lights in the sky and earthquakes. It references the blue, red, and yellow lights observed during the 1930 Idu earthquake in Japan. Professor Thomas Gold's 1978 theory suggests that methane gas escaping from underground pockets during seismic activity could cause these lights. The phenomenon is linked to other atmospheric changes observed during earthquakes, such as increased Radon 222 concentration and local magnetic field variations.

Varmt punkt i solsystemet (Hot Spot in the Solar System)

The US spacecraft Voyager 2 has discovered the hottest known point in the solar system near Saturn, reaching temperatures up to 550 million degrees Celsius. This discovery, made approximately 270,000 km from Saturn, was announced by scientist Stamatios Krimigis. The hot spot is described as a thin plasma of ions and electrons, located near the orbits of Saturn's moons Dion and Rhea.

Man er vel altid god for en historie, ikke? (One is always good for a story, aren't they?)

This piece discusses the case of Zygmunt Adamski, an Englishman who died mysteriously in the summer of 1980. His body was found with severe burns, and the cause of death was attributed to heart failure, possibly induced by fright. The incident was linked to the sighting of an unidentified luminous object shortly before his disappearance. The article notes that while the connection between the UFO sighting and Adamski's death is speculative, it has been sensationalized in the press, particularly in the 'Sunday Mirror'. The author cautions against premature conclusions until thorough investigations are conducted.

NYT OM SUFOI (News about SUFOI)

This section provides updates from the SUFOI organization. Peter A. Hansen's column 'Til og fra medlemmerne' (To and from members) serves as a communication channel. The 'Meddelelser fra SUFOIs Ekspedition' (Messages from SUFOI's Expedition) announces the renewal of subscriptions and the continued availability of the magazine 'UFO-NYT' alongside 'Det Ukendte'. Readers are encouraged to send in newspaper clippings. A call for translators for English and French is made to assist with research and the organization's English-language publication. The section also reports on the high demand for UFO detectors, which sold out quickly, with a new production expected in April/May. A 'Støttefonden' (Support Fund) has been established to provide financial security for UFO-NYT, aiming to increase readership through advertising and promotional activities.

KIG PÅ HIMLEN (Looking at the Sky)

This regular column by Tommy Christensen provides astronomical observations for April and May. It details the visibility of planets like Mars, Saturn, Jupiter, and Mercury, along with meteor showers such as the Virginids and Lyrids. It also mentions the Aquarids, linked to Halley's Comet. The column guides readers on identifying prominent stars like Arcturus and Antares, and constellations like Ursa Major and Scorpius, recommending the handbook 'Stjerneatlas' for further study.

RUMFART I KORTE TRÆK (Spaceflight in Brief)

This section covers several short news items related to spaceflight:

• Smøring og olieskift for Columbia, tak! (Lubrication and oil change for Columbia, thanks!): Describes a repair kit developed by Martin-Marietta for the Space Shuttle Columbia, designed to replace heat-resistant tiles lost during launch or landing. The kit includes a spray gun, material blocks, and a portable platform, weighing nearly 130 kg.
• Nye Venus-sonder (New Venus Probes): Reports on the Soviet launch of two Venus probes, Venera 13 and Venera 14, in October and November 1981. These probes are equipped to land on the Venusian surface in a region suspected of past volcanic activity, carrying advanced instruments for image transmission and chemical analysis.
• By i Rummet (City in Space): Details a Russian plan to build a space city named Cosmograd using modular units launched from Earth and assembled in orbit. Russian space experts are optimistic about launching the first components within a few years, citing the success of the Salyut 6 space station.
• Det amerikanske rumfartsprogram (The American Space Program): Discusses budget cuts affecting NASA's space program, leading to a focus on essential missions. Military projects are being postponed, and external funding is being sought for key projects like the Voyager missions (including a fly-by of Uranus in 1986) and the Galileo mission to Jupiter. The article notes that European, Soviet, and Japanese efforts are underway for the Halley Comet mission.

Barnards Stjerne nærmer sig Solen (Barnard's Star Approaches the Sun)

This article discusses Barnard's Star, a red dwarf discovered by astronomer Ewald E. Barnard. It highlights the star's proximity to our solar system (5.98 light-years away) and its exceptionally high proper motion, the largest known. The article explains radial velocity and states that Barnard's Star is approaching our solar system at a speed of 108 km/sec, or 3408 million km annually. However, it clarifies that the star will not collide with our solar system, reaching its closest point in about 12,850 years.

Satellit i snor (Satellite on a String)

This piece describes a joint NASA-Italian project to explore Earth's upper atmosphere. The concept involves a measuring satellite tethered to a space shuttle by a cord up to 100 km long, allowing it to descend to altitudes of 130 km above the Earth's surface. The satellite, cord, and control systems will be deployed from a space shuttle in low orbit. The Italian team will build the satellite, while NASA will provide the rest of the system, with the first launch anticipated in the mid-1980s.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO phenomena, presenting a mix of eyewitness accounts, research findings, and critical analyses. There's a clear effort to provide information on both the unexplained aspects of UFOs and the scientific endeavors related to space exploration and astronomy. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to supplement their knowledge ('Supplér din viden') while also grounding reports in factual presentation and scientific context where possible. The magazine also emphasizes the importance of organization and cooperation within the UFO community, as seen in the reports on SUFOI and British UFO groups.