UFO Nyt - No 3 maj-juni 1983

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO-nyt
Issue: Nr. 3
Volume: 25. årg.
Date: Maj/Juni 1983
Publisher: Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
Price: 22 kr. pr. nummer

Editorial Content

This issue of UFO-nyt delves into various aspects of UFO research and sightings, with a strong focus on the classic Dexter-Hillsdale case from March 1966 in Michigan, USA. The magazine also features reports from Denmark and discusses the scientific and skeptical perspectives on UFO phenomena.

Leder: Bladdød (Magazine Death)

This editorial by Kim Møller Hansen discusses the cessation of the magazine "UFO Aspekt," which originated from a SUFOI study group. The group later broke away and published "UFO Aspekt," initially focusing on George Adamski's philosophy. The editorial notes FUFOS's structural change, broadening its scope to include fringe sciences, psychic phenomena, and spiritualism, suggesting a larger market. It also details FUFOS's decision in March 1983 to cease collecting UFO reports due to the demanding workload and financial strain, transferring their archives to SUFOI for the UFODATA project. The editorial highlights that SUFOI will now solely bear the costs of rapport recording courses and continue its representation in PICUR (Provisional International Committee for UFO Research) independently.

Klassiker: Dexter – Hillsdale, 1966

This extensive article recounts the events of March 1966 in Dexter and Hillsdale, Michigan, where numerous citizens, including police officers, reported sightings of unidentified phenomena. The article details specific incidents:

• Police Photographers: On March 17th, police officers Nuel Schneider and David Fitzpatrick investigated sightings. Fitzpatrick took long-exposure photographs of what he believed to be UFOs, which were later identified by Dr. J. Allen Hynek as long-exposure shots of Venus and the Moon.
• UFO over Swamp: On March 20th, Frank Mannor and his son reported seeing a hovering, car-sized, football-shaped object with pulsating lights over a swamp. The object turned blood red and then disappeared. The area was later investigated, and a circular imprint was found.
• Hillsdale College Sighting: On March 21st, approximately 87 female students at Hillsdale College witnessed hovering lights over a swamp for several hours. The lights varied in color and movement. A circular imprint was found in the area, and geiger counter readings were reportedly high.

The article notes that the widespread media attention led to a CBS news special titled "Friend, Foe or Fantasy?" and that the "swamp gas" theory, proposed by Dr. Hynek, was met with skepticism and ridicule.

Pressekonferencen i Detroit den 25. marts 1966 (The Press Conference in Detroit on March 25, 1966)

This section details the press conference held by Dr. J. Allen Hynek in Detroit following the Dexter-Hillsdale sightings. Under pressure from the Air Force's UFO investigation project, Hynek, despite having no definitive explanation, presented the "swamp gas" theory. He explained that decaying vegetation produces swamp gas, which can be trapped by ice and released suddenly, causing lights and sounds. The theory was based on information from a botanist and other scientists. However, the press and public largely rejected this explanation, which was widely mocked. The article also mentions that the intense public interest spurred by the Michigan sightings contributed to the initiation of the Condon Committee's UFO study.

Var det sumpgas? (Was it Swamp Gas?)

This article critically examines the "swamp gas" theory. It states that scientific knowledge about swamp gas is limited, and its formation and combustion are not fully understood. Descriptions of swamp gas sightings typically involve flames, torches, or mushroom-shaped lights, usually a faint blue or other colors, but never white. Swamp gas is said to rise only 1.5-3 meters and last for a maximum of one minute, with occasional popping or cracking sounds. The article concludes that the descriptions of the phenomena in Dexter and Hillsdale do not match the known characteristics of swamp gas, making the theory highly questionable, although it was accepted by Major Quintanilla for the Blue Book files.

Indrapporteringer Danmark (Reporting Denmark)

This section presents a situation report from SUFOI's report center for January 1st to February 28th, 1983. It includes a map of Denmark showing the locations of reported UFO sightings, categorized by classification:

• NL.1 (Night Light Phenomenon 1): Point-like light without details.
• NL.2 (Night Light Phenomenon 2): Light phenomenon of some extent with a visible form.
• DL.1 (Daylight Phenomenon 1): Point-like phenomenon without details.
• DL.2 (Daylight Phenomenon 2): Phenomenon of some extent with a visible form.
• NO.1 (Close Observation of 1st Degree): A UFO with clear details seen within 150 meters.
• NO.2 (Close Observation of 2nd Degree): A UFO that leaves traces like landing marks, radiation, or damage.
• NO.3 (Close Observation of 3rd Degree): A UFO with occupants observed.

The report indicates that the sightings were primarily classified as night light phenomena.

Efterlysning (Missing Person/Information Request)

This section is a request from Kim Møller Hansen of SUFOI's photo department for a reader named "Ballonpige" who wrote an anonymous letter on January 24, 1983, containing information about UFO sightings in Norway. The request asks "Ballonpige" to make contact to provide more details, assuring anonymity.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes the serious investigation of UFO phenomena, emphasizing factual reporting and scientific analysis. While acknowledging skeptical viewpoints and the challenges of explaining sightings, the editorial stance appears to favor the continued study of UFOs as a genuine, albeit often misunderstood, phenomenon. The issue highlights the importance of organizations like SUFOI in collecting and processing data, and it critiques simplistic explanations like "swamp gas" when they fail to adequately address witness accounts. There is a clear emphasis on providing detailed case studies and encouraging reader participation in reporting sightings.

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 3/83
Date: January 1 to February 28, 1983
Publisher: SUFOI
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of UFO-NYT focuses on recent UFO observations and provides in-depth analysis of significant events. It includes a comprehensive list of sightings from Denmark, a detailed report on a global UFO event, and a tribute to a key SUFOI figure.

Observation List (January 1 - February 28, 1983)

The magazine presents a detailed table of UFO observations received by SUFOI during the first two months of 1983. Each entry includes the date, approximate time, observation duration, location (with postal code), number of witnesses, and reported colors of the object. The list covers numerous sightings across Denmark, with locations such as Nakskov, Holbæk, Sakskøbing, Vejle, and Aalborg frequently mentioned. The reported colors range widely, including red, white, gold, green, blue, orange, and metallic hues. Witness counts vary from a single individual to as many as ten.

UFO over Vestjylland (UFO over West Jutland)

This section details an interesting observation that occurred on the evening of January 26, 1978, near Ringkøbing, Denmark. A couple driving towards No witnessed a clear, stationary, luminous object low on the horizon. As they approached, the object appeared to move closer, eventually seeming to be only 150 meters away at an altitude of 25 meters. The object was described as egg-shaped, approximately 10x5 meters, and brightly lit without being blinding. Inside the light, a 'shell' of an object was perceived. The object then slowly ascended and flew east. The witnesses reported no sound. The case was brought to SUFOI's attention in December 1982, and investigations have so far failed to provide a natural explanation. Possible explanations such as aircraft, the moon, or ball lightning were considered and largely dismissed due to inconsistencies with the observations.

UFO-RAPPORTER DANMARK (UFO Reports Denmark)

This section continues with more detailed reports:

Observation near Brønderslev and Vrå: On April 11, 1982, a young man and his sister observed a dark, oval-shaped 'cloud' that moved with them. The object was black with a clearly defined oval shape and remained low over the horizon. Despite the man's attempts to observe it closely, the object disappeared after being obscured by car headlights. The object was not identified as a cloud due to its behavior and the lack of wind. SUFOI concluded it was an unidentified phenomenon.

UFO chases aircraft: This report details encounters of a pilot, Mr. Dennis, with UFOs. Dennis, an experienced pilot and charter company owner, reported seeing two identical projectile-shaped aircraft. The first sighting was at a distance of about 400 meters, and the second, closer encounter at 150 meters, resulted in a complete radio failure. The objects were described as orange and projectile-shaped, with no visible wings. The second observation, on November 5, 1980, near Berryesa Lake, California, involved a similar object that caused radio and instrument failures. Dennis described the object as having a pulsating, bright orange-red light and performing extreme maneuvers. A subsequent report from April 8, 1981, describes a similar event where the object emitted a bright, intense orange-red light and accelerated rapidly, performing a 90-degree turn. The report notes that the object's behavior was unusual for any known aircraft.

Gigantisk UFO over Sovjet (Gigantic UFO over Soviet)

This article by James E. Oberg discusses a massive UFO observation that occurred on June 14, 1980. The event was witnessed by many in central Russia and later over South America, where it was photographed. The Russian descriptions referred to an enormous, red-orange, horseshoe or crescent-shaped object. UFOlogists in Russia reported panic and unusual animal behavior attributed to the sighting. Russian fighter jets were reportedly scrambled to intercept the object. The article explores the possibility that the phenomenon was a satellite, specifically the Russian Kosmos 1188, which was launched around the time of the event and followed a trajectory consistent with the observations. The analysis suggests that the 'cloud' or 'light' observed could have been atmospheric effects related to the satellite's passage.

X.P. Madsen: Pioner og veteran (Pioneer and Veteran)

This is a tribute to Xavier Poul Madsen, a long-serving and highly respected member of SUFOI, who passed away on March 30, 1983, at the age of 75. Madsen was instrumental in the UFO field for 25 years, serving on SUFOI's Representative Council and leading the Report and Alarm Center. He conducted numerous lectures and interviews, tirelessly gathering information on UFO phenomena. The article highlights his dedication and passion for uncovering the truth about UFOs, noting his belief in the existence of extraterrestrial visitors. His wife, Vita, is also acknowledged for her unwavering support. The article concludes with a heartfelt farewell from Frank Lerbæk, emphasizing Madsen's pioneering role and lasting legacy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the systematic collection and analysis of UFO sightings, emphasizing the importance of detailed reporting and investigation. SUFOI's stance is one of open-minded inquiry, seeking natural explanations where possible but acknowledging the existence of unidentified phenomena. The magazine promotes UFO research through its publications, including the book 'UFOer Tæt På' and back issues of UFO-NYT. The editorial tone is informative and dedicated to exploring the UFO mystery with a scientific approach, while also honoring key figures in the field.

This issue of UFO-NYT, dated 3/83, focuses on the intersection of satellite technology and UFO phenomena, alongside discussions on photo analysis and the ongoing debate within the UFO community. The magazine features articles that attempt to explain sightings through known phenomena, while also highlighting cases that remain unexplained.

Kosmos Satellite Launches and UFO Sightings

The lead article, "Kosmos-1164 was sent up at 00:56 UT on February 12, 1980...", explores the possibility that luminous clouds observed in South America are linked to Soviet satellite launches, specifically the Kosmos EW (Early Warning) program. The author, analyzing reports from Chile, Argentina, and other locations, details the launch procedures of the "Molniya" rockets used for these satellites. The observed phenomena, described as V-shaped structures and luminous objects, are theorized to be related to the jettisoning of rocket stages. The article draws parallels with the 1977 Petrozavodsk "water-man UFO" incident, also linked to a Kosmos launch. It discusses the challenges in definitively identifying which part of the rocket system is responsible for the observed effects, considering the 3rd stage, the "launch platform," the 4th stage, or the payload itself.

Further analysis suggests that the "fuel venting" theory is a plausible explanation, though not definitively proven. The article references historical observations, such as those from the "Moonwatch" project, which photographed S-4-B Apollo rocket stages venting fuel. However, the characteristics of the Kosmos-1188 cloud, such as its symmetry and luminosity, differ from earlier observations. The speed of expansion of the Kosmos-1188 cloud is noted as being significantly faster than previous examples, suggesting a short, explosive nature.

The article also examines the geographical distribution of these sightings, noting that they often occur in specific regions and at particular times relative to satellite trajectories. The author posits that the increased number of Kosmos-EW launches in the early 1980s may account for a rise in related UFO observations. The article concludes that while many UFO reports can be explained by mundane causes, the connection between these specific satellite launches and the observed phenomena is compelling.

Photo Analysis: 'Ghost UFOs'

Another section, "NYT FRA FOTOAFDELINGEN Spøgelses-UFOer" (News from the Photo Department: Ghost UFOs), addresses the issue of misidentified UFO photographs. The author, Kim Møller Hansen, explains that many seemingly anomalous images are actually caused by lens flares – internal reflections within camera lenses. The article uses examples, including a photograph published in Danish and German magazines, taken by a police officer in Hamburg. This image, initially presented as a UFO, is explained as a reflection caused by the police car's flashing lights interacting with the camera's optics. The article provides a method for identifying lens flares by drawing a line from the apparent UFO through the center of the image to locate the light source. It notes that modern cameras are designed to minimize these reflections, making 'ghost UFOs' rarer than in the past.

UFO Symposium: For and Against

"UFO-SYMPOSIUM FOR og IMOD" (UFO Symposium: For and Against) by J. Allen Hynek recounts his impressions of a symposium held at the Smithsonian Institute on September 6, 1980. The event featured six speakers: three skeptics (Philip Klass, Robert Schaeffer, James Oberg) and three proponents (Bruce Maccabee, Allan Hendry, and Hynek himself). Hynek expresses his preference for scientific research and open discussion over debate, noting his initial reluctance to participate in a format he felt was ill-suited for scientific inquiry.

He criticizes the skeptical viewpoint, which often dismisses all UFO reports as misidentifications or hoaxes. Hynek argues that the global nature of the UFO phenomenon, with similar reports emerging from diverse cultures and varying levels of media exposure, suggests a genuine underlying reality. He highlights the importance of rigorous criteria for evaluating witness testimony, such as multiple independent witnesses and daylight observations. The article presents specific cases, including the Camp Hood, Texas, incident (1949), the Levelland, Texas, sighting (1957), and a disc sighting in Joliet, Illinois (1977), as examples that meet these criteria and remain unexplained by conventional means.

Hynek also discusses the paradox that skeptics often claim UFO reports are fabricated, yet simultaneously rely on the accuracy of these same reports to identify them as misidentifications of known objects. He points to statistical studies, such as one on Soviet UFO reports, which indicate a significant percentage of observations made by scientists and astronomers, suggesting the phenomenon is taken seriously by some within the scientific community.

The article concludes with Hynek's personal stance: that the UFO phenomenon, regardless of its ultimate cause, warrants serious scientific study due to its pervasive nature and potential significance. He quotes Laplace on the importance of investigating phenomena, even if they are difficult to explain.

Notitser: Short Reports

This section includes brief reports, such as a sighting in Kenya in 1966 by an Australian pilot and co-pilot who observed oval and lens-shaped objects flying alongside their DC 3 aircraft. The objects maintained formation and speed for about 10-15 minutes before accelerating eastward and disappearing. The report rules out conventional aircraft and meteors, and suggests a possible explanation as a 'bisol' (double sun phenomenon), though this is not entirely satisfactory given the number and metallic appearance of the objects.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the challenge of distinguishing genuine sightings from misidentifications, and the ongoing debate between skeptics and proponents. The magazine appears to favor a rigorous, evidence-based approach, seeking to explain sightings through known phenomena where possible, but also acknowledging the existence of cases that defy easy explanation. The editorial stance, particularly evident in J. Allen Hynek's contribution, is that the UFO phenomenon, in its global scope and persistent nature, deserves serious scientific attention and investigation, even if its ultimate cause remains elusive.

This issue of UFO-NYT, dated November/December 1982, features a cover story titled 'Dr. Menzel had a UFO-observation!' by J. Allen Hynek. The magazine delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, including personal accounts, scientific theories, and critiques of skepticism within the astronomical community. It also includes a book review of 'UFO Mysteriet i Hessdalen' and a discussion on Soviet theories about Mars.

Dr. Menzel's UFO Observation

J. Allen Hynek recounts an observation made by the late Dr. Donald H. Menzel, a former staunch skeptic of UFOs. On the night of May 12, 1949, while driving near Holloman Air Force Base, Menzel observed two luminous objects in the sky that he could not explain as natural phenomena, though he initially tried to attribute them to atmospheric illusions. He described them as appearing like stars but having disk-like diameters, approximately one-quarter that of the full moon. He calculated their distance to be at least 290 km and their diameter around 1.2 km. Menzel, despite his initial reluctance to accept the possibility of an extraterrestrial origin, reported the event for future registration, acknowledging it as a puzzle.

Soviet Theories on Mars' Climate

Jurij Kolesnikov discusses new hypotheses from Soviet scientists, particularly Kirill Kondratjev, regarding the climate change on Mars. They propose that massive volcanic eruptions, which released gases and ash, formed a layer of sulfuric acid clouds. This layer amplified the greenhouse effect, leading to increased temperatures and atmospheric humidity, which in turn caused rain and snowfall, forming the observed dry riverbeds. The theory also suggests that as volcanic activity ceased, sulfuric acid dissolved into the ground, explaining the high sulfur content in Martian soil. The article also touches upon the ongoing debate about the possibility of past or present life on Mars, referencing the inconclusive results from the Viking experiments and further research by Sergej Aksjonov.

Skeptical Astronomers and UFOs

Alvin H. Lawson critically examines the attitude of skeptical astronomers towards UFO phenomena. He argues that many astronomers, despite their scientific backgrounds, exhibit a lack of curiosity and objectivity when it comes to UFOs, often dismissing reports without adequate investigation. Lawson points out common flaws in skeptical arguments, including a lack of familiarity with UFO data, unscientific reasoning, and the tendency to ignore the core issue of whether UFOs represent an unknown phenomenon. He criticizes the 'Blue Book learning' where UFOs are dismissed because they 'cannot exist.' Lawson highlights specific examples, such as Donald Menzel's explanation of a sighting in New Guinea as an optical illusion of the observer's eyelashes. The article also discusses the misuse of language and the tendency to make false analogies, citing Carl Sagan's comparison of the extraterrestrial hypothesis (ETH) to the Santa Claus hypothesis. Lawson concludes that while the evidence for UFOs is often 'soft,' the sheer volume of reports (estimated at half a million over 30 years) warrants serious consideration rather than outright dismissal.

Book Review: 'UFO Mysteriet i Hessdalen'

Kim Møller Hansen reviews Arne Wisth's book, which chronicles the UFO activity in the small town of Hessdalen, Norway, starting in the summer of 1981. Wisth, initially skeptical, became convinced of UFOs as vehicles of intelligent beings after interviewing witnesses and observing unidentified lights himself. The book categorizes UFOs into four types: round/egg-shaped, flying saucer-shaped, pistol-shaped, and cigar-shaped. The review notes that the book contains interviews with Hessdalen residents and discusses older observations in the area. However, it criticizes some sections, particularly chapter 7, which attempts to link Hessdalen UFOs with biblical revelations, calling it 'nonsense.' The review also mentions an incident where a predicted 'revelation' on December 28, 1982, failed to materialize, leading to public disappointment and criticism of some UFO organizations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue consistently highlights the tension between UFO phenomena and scientific skepticism, particularly within astronomy. The editorial stance appears to advocate for a more open-minded and thorough investigation of UFO reports, challenging the dismissive attitudes often found among established scientists. The magazine emphasizes the importance of empirical evidence, even if it is 'soft,' and encourages amateur astronomers to contribute to the field. The recurring theme is that the UFO phenomenon, despite its controversial nature, warrants serious scientific inquiry rather than outright rejection or ridicule. The articles collectively suggest that the scientific community's current approach to UFOs is inadequate and that a more rigorous and less prejudiced methodology is needed.

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 3/83
Date: 1983
Publisher: SUFOI
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of UFO-NYT delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, featuring detailed investigations, personal accounts, and organizational news. It highlights the ongoing interest in the Hessdalen case, discusses potential electromagnetic effects in sightings, and promotes upcoming events and publications for UFO enthusiasts.

The Hessdalen Phenomenon

The article "UFO Mysteriet | Hessdalen" by Arne Wisth is reviewed, providing an overview of the Hessdalen case. While the book is described as expensive, it contains significant photographic material. The review notes that the photos, like other night-light photos, do not inherently prove anything and cannot justify Wisth's categorization of phenomena into four types. The first UFO photos from Hessdalen were taken in January 1982. A critical analysis by NIVFO suggests these photos might be long exposures of stars. The book is said to offer an overview but little new insight, and the reviewer doubts it will convince readers of extraterrestrial visitation, concluding with Wisth's own statement about the existence of unexplained phenomena.

Arne Wisth, a freelance journalist and photographer born in 1937, is highlighted. His past work includes a book on "The Hidden War" and filming for the BBC. He states that discovering UFOs changed his perspective on the world.

Witness Accounts and Investigations

Warminster Incident (EM Effect):
An investigation into a sighting by Mrs. Elizabeth Edwards near Warminster, UK, in August 1980 is detailed. The witness reported a strange, deafening noise that seemed to envelop her car, followed by two yellow lights appearing at a lower altitude. The noise ceased after about 1.5 miles, and the lights disappeared behind the eastern horizon. The investigation explored potential explanations, including high-voltage power lines, but found no definitive cause. The noise and lights remain unexplained, with the possibility of a piezoelectric effect being considered but deemed unlikely to explain the noise.

Reader Observations:
Several readers share their observations. S.S. Hansen from Tønder describes seeing numerous 'dots' moving in a steady, straight path across the night sky, which decrease in brightness and disappear. The response suggests these are likely satellites, which are common and always appear against the starry sky.

Tommy Christensen reports observing a satellite and a small white point of light moving parallel to it, which then descended towards the satellite before disappearing. He notes that while not a dramatic event, it demonstrates that good results can be achieved with patience.

SUFOI News and Activities

Representative Meeting (March 1983):
The SUFOI representative meeting in March 1983 is summarized. Key discussions included financial reports, budget adoption, setting prices for UFO-NYT, and proposals regarding internal procedures and foreign UFO reports. Tommy Christensen, a former representative, stepped down but will continue writing for UFO-NYT. X.P. Madsen, a long-time contributor, was made an honorary member. Proposals concerning foreign UFO periodicals and funding for an international UFO meeting in London were also discussed. The next meeting was scheduled for September 1983.

UFO-NYT Feedback:
Criticism was raised regarding the magazine's advertisements being too dull, SUFOI being too anonymous, and a lack of Danish UFO reports. The latter was attributed to a reorganization in the report sector and a shortage of writers. Jørgen Bengtvig offered to provide report summaries for future issues.

UFO '83 Summer Seminar:
Details are provided for the "UFO '83 – Sommerseminar om UFOer" to be held in Hadsten Højskole from July 23-29, 1983. The week-long program includes panel debates, study groups, lectures on various UFO-related topics (e.g., methodology, 'third-degree' crash retrievals, Swedish UFO research, political aspects of UFOs, cults, and social effects), film screenings, and UFO photo presentations. The cost for a week's stay with full board is 790 DKK, with single lectures costing 15 DKK.

Book Reviews and Promotions

• Book Recommendations:
• The issue promotes several UFO-related books available through SUFOI:
• "The Hynek UFO Report" by J. Allen Hynek (301 pages, illustrated, pocket edition, 38 DKK).
• "Project Blue Book" edited by Brad Steiger (423 pages, illustrated, pocket edition, 38 DKK).
• "Anatomy of a Phenomenon - UFOs in Space" by Jacques Vallee (227 pages, illustrated, pocket edition, 38 DKK).
• "The Interrupted Journey" by John G. Fuller (350 pages, illustrated, pocket edition, 38 DKK; 304 pages, illustrated, hard-cover, 58 DKK).

Book Offer:
A promotion offers the book "Liv blandt milliarder af stjerner" (Life Among Billions of Stars) for free to anyone who gets a friend to subscribe to UFO-NYT for 1983. The book is described as essential reading for UFO enthusiasts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO sightings, investigations, and the scientific and cultural aspects of the phenomenon. There is a clear effort to provide a platform for both detailed case studies and organizational news within the Danish UFO community. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging critical analysis while acknowledging the existence of unexplained phenomena. The promotion of books and seminars indicates a commitment to educating and engaging its readership on UFO topics. The inclusion of reader letters and feedback suggests a desire for active participation from the community.