UFO Nyt - No 1 jan-feb 1986

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO NYT
Issue: 1
Volume: 28
Date: January/February 1986
Publisher: Skandinavisk UFO Information

This issue of UFO NYT, published in Denmark, focuses on a variety of UFO-related topics, including historical sightings, theoretical explanations, and the psychological impact of UFO phenomena. The cover features an artistic rendition of the Space Shuttle Challenger in orbit, hinting at space-related themes.

Editorial Stance and Content Overview

The editorial, "Ude på overdrevet?" (Out on a Limb?), by Per Andersen, addresses the magazine's intention to explore more unusual UFO theories in 1986. Andersen acknowledges that some theories might seem far-fetched but emphasizes the need for open discussion and debate within the UFO community. He states that UFO NYT does not endorse any single theory as the definitive explanation for UFO phenomena and aims to provide a platform for diverse viewpoints. The editorial also announces upcoming articles on UFO/Nazi theories.

Key Articles and Features

UFO-Teorier: Krystalkuglehypotesen (UFO Theories: The Crystal Ball Hypothesis)

This article by Michael Hough explores the phenomenon of observers reporting UFOs in exaggerated terms, making them seem larger and more mobile than they might actually be. The author proposes the "crystal ball hypothesis," drawing parallels to scrying and visual hallucinations. Hough suggests that psychological factors, such as belief and susceptibility to altered states of consciousness, play a significant role in how UFO sightings are perceived and reported. The article discusses various types of altered states of consciousness (ASC) and compares them to UFO visions, noting that children may be more prone to such experiences. It also touches upon the work of psychiatrists Herbert and David Spiegel regarding hypnotic induction profiles and personality types.

Komet Halley: En brugsanvisning (Halley's Comet: An Instruction Manual)

Written by Ole J. Knudsen, this article serves as a guide to understanding and observing Halley's Comet, which was a significant astronomical event in 1986. The author debunks common myths about the comet, such as it being dangerous or having a course towards Earth. Knudsen explains what a comet is, its composition, and its orbital path. He provides practical advice for viewing the comet from Denmark, noting that it would be best observed from the Southern Hemisphere during its peak visibility in March/April 1986. The article also includes historical context, mentioning Edmond Halley's discovery of the comet's periodicity and its appearance in historical records, including the Bayeux Tapestry. It dismisses superstitions linking comets to bad omens.

Panik-udsendelsen: Klodernes kamp (The Panic Broadcast: War of the Worlds)

This article by Curtis L. Peebles recounts the infamous 1938 radio broadcast of H.G. Wells' "The War of the Worlds" by Orson Welles and the Mercury Theatre. The broadcast, presented as a series of news bulletins interrupting a music program, led many listeners to believe that a Martian invasion was actually occurring, causing widespread panic. The author highlights the impact of this event on public perception and discusses how such a fictional event could trigger real-world societal paralysis. He notes that the broadcast was highly realistic, with interviews and reports that convinced a significant portion of the audience. The article mentions that the broadcast was heard by 32 million families in the US, with 1 million switching over to the Mercury Theatre program during its peak.

UFOer i fortiden (UFOs in the Past)

This section likely discusses historical accounts of UFO sightings, though specific details are not fully elaborated in the provided text. The cover lists "UFOer i fortiden" as a topic.

Krystalkuglehypotesen (The Crystal Ball Hypothesis)

This is the main theoretical article, detailed above, exploring psychological explanations for UFO reports.

Radioudsendelse skaber panik (Radio Broadcast Creates Panic)

This refers to the "War of the Worlds" broadcast, detailed above.

To mænd bortført ved Pascagoula (Two Men Abducted at Pascagoula)

This article covers the well-known Pascagoula UFO abduction case from 1973, where two men reported being taken aboard a UFO. The magazine likely provides details and analysis of this incident.

Danske fotosager: Hvad er nu det? (Danish Photo Cases: What is This Now?)

This section likely presents and analyzes UFO photographs taken in Denmark.

Finland: UFO-forskning i Finland (Finland: UFO Research in Finland)

This article explores the state of UFO research in Finland.

UFO-klassiker: Pascagoula 1973 (UFO Classic: Pascagoula 1973)

This is likely a more in-depth look at the Pascagoula abduction case.

Astronomi: Planeter omkring andre stjerner (Astronomy: Planets Around Other Stars)

This article delves into astronomical discoveries concerning exoplanets.

Spørg SUFOI: Brevkasse (Ask SUFOI: Mailbox)

This is a Q&A section where readers can submit questions to SUFOI.

Aktiviteter: UFO-aften i Aalborg (Activities: UFO Evening in Aalborg)

This section reports on a UFO-themed event held in Aalborg.

Utroligt: UFOer skræmmer Kina (Incredible: UFOs Scare China)

This article discusses alleged UFO sightings or incidents in China that caused alarm.

Challenger-UFOet (The Challenger UFO)

This likely refers to a UFO sighting or phenomenon related to the Space Shuttle Challenger.

Book Promotion: PILOTER SER UFO'ER (Pilots See UFOs)

Page 8 features a promotion for the book "PILOTER SER UFO'ER" by Kim Møller Hansen. The book focuses on UFO observations by Australian pilots, including the case of Frederick Valentich, who disappeared in 1978 after reporting a UFO encounter. The book reportedly includes the official accident report, an analysis of the "metallic sound" heard during Valentich's last transmission, and various explanations for the pilot's and aircraft's disappearance. It also mentions a psychic's attempt to locate Valentich. The book is described as the most comprehensive examination of the Valentich case to date and includes 12 other UFO incidents experienced by Australian pilots. The book was compiled by Kim Møller Hansen based on material from researchers like Keith Basterfield and Richard F. Haines.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the psychological aspects of UFO sightings, historical UFO cases, astronomical phenomena (Halley's Comet, exoplanets), and the societal impact of perceived extraterrestrial contact. The editorial stance, as expressed by Per Andersen, is one of open-minded skepticism, encouraging the exploration of various theories while maintaining a critical perspective. The magazine aims to foster debate and provide information on a wide range of UFO-related topics, acknowledging that definitive answers are often elusive.

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 1/86
Volume: 26
Issue Date: January 1986
Publisher: SUFOI
Country: Denmark
Original Language: Danish

Articles and Content

The 'War of the Worlds' Panic (Pages 1-2)

This section revisits the infamous 1938 radio broadcast of H.G. Wells' 'The War of the Worlds' by Orson Welles and its profound impact on the American public. Professor Hadley Cantril's study is detailed, revealing that approximately 1 million out of 6 million listeners were significantly distressed or frightened. The broadcast's effectiveness is attributed to its perfect script, Orson Welles' masterful production, and its innovative use of news bulletins, interviews, and live reports, mimicking actual news broadcasts of the era. The narrative structure, which mirrored the growing fear and disorientation of the characters, also drew listeners into the drama, making them feel like witnesses to the 'invasion.' The article highlights how the realism, combined with the listeners' familiarity with radio news formats, led many to believe the broadcast was real. Factors contributing to the panic included the perceived authority of the speakers (astronomers, military officials, government figures), the educational background of the listeners (those with less education were more prone to panic), and the contagious nature of fear. The geographical aspect of the panic is also discussed, with those closer to the fictional landing sites exhibiting greater fear. The article notes that the widespread belief in life on Mars, fueled by earlier observations of Martian canals, contributed to the public's receptiveness to the invasion narrative. The socio-political climate of 1938, marked by the Great Depression and rising international tensions, is presented as a crucial backdrop that amplified the public's anxieties.

UFO Research in Finland (Pages 4-5)

Ole Henningsen provides an overview of UFO research in Finland, noting the long-standing interest in the phenomenon. The Finnish UFO organization, 'The UFO Research Of Finland,' founded in 1973, publishes a quarterly journal and has a network of 70 reporting agents. The organization categorizes UFO observations into three groups: unexplained (UFOs), insufficient information, and explained (astronomical, meteorological, or technological phenomena, including hoaxes). The article highlights that in 1984, 8 reports were received, none of which were classified as UFOs, with four attributed to Soviet rocket launches and others to natural causes or insufficient data. The Finnish press published approximately 160 articles related to UFOs in 1984. A specific older observation from September 9, 1983, describes a red, flying saucer-like phenomenon seen near Kronoby.

UFO-Classics: Pascagoula, 1973 (Pages 10)

This article recounts the well-known Pascagoula UFO abduction case. On October 11, 1973, Calvin Parker (19) and Charles Hickson (45) were fishing near Pascagoula, Mississippi, when they heard a humming sound and saw a large, luminous, oval object land. Three beings emerged and reportedly carried the men into the craft. Hickson underwent an examination by an 'eye-like' instrument. After the beings left the craft, the men were returned to the riverbank. The incident gained significant media attention, with ufologists and legal assistance offered to the witnesses. The article details their interview at the sheriff's office and the subsequent involvement of APRO (Aerial Phenomena Research Organization), which dispatched consultants, including a hypnotist, to investigate.

Historical UFO Phenomena (Pages 6-9)

Sven Rosen contributes an article exploring historical accounts of aerial phenomena that bear resemblance to modern UFO sightings. Drawing from Joen Petri Klint's 17th-century book 'Om the och widunder som föregingo thet lithurgiske oväsendet,' the article presents several Swedish observations from the 16th century:

• 1569: A strong light, like a falling star, burned those outdoors and caused horses to sweat.
• 1570: Descriptions of rumbling sounds, falling 'glowing pots,' and large earth mounds, possibly related to meteors.
• 1581: A phenomenon described as the sky opening with blue smoke and flames, followed by a warm skin.
• 1583: A 'dark sun' with a black cloud and red rain was observed.
• 1593: An entity described as a 'dragon' or 'snake,' emitting fire and smoke, was seen.
• 1598: A large, star-like 'dragon' surrounded by fire and light was observed.
• 1599: A star-like object with a burning tail, emitting sparks, was seen.
• 1595: A bright light was seen over a church during a hailstorm, with a fiery object emerging.

The article notes the parallels between these historical accounts and modern UFO reports, suggesting that while explanations may vary, the phenomena themselves have recurring characteristics. The author also mentions the 'Knippestjernen' (Knippe Star) over Ållonö in 1599 and a 1665 report of aerial battles and a 'flying saucer' over Stralsund.

UFO Photography Analysis (Page 3)

This section details the analysis of a UFO photograph taken by Mogens Keblovszki in Århus, Denmark, in November 1971. The object, described as dark with a light upper edge and possibly a punctured stripe, was unusual. Despite an investigation of the site, no explanation was found. The article discusses the possibility of fraud, double exposure, or a thrown object, but dismisses them due to the clarity of the image. The expert analysis by H. Bødker suggests a possible suspension or an unknown cause, recommending digitalization of the negative for further analysis. The process of digitalization and its application to UFO photos is explained.

UFO-NYT Back Issues (Page 9)

This page advertises older issues of UFO-NYT magazine for sale, covering the years 1981 through 1985, with prices listed for each year's collection of issues.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO phenomena from a research-oriented perspective, aiming to present factual accounts and analyses. There is a clear interest in historical sightings, suggesting that UFOs are not a new phenomenon. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, seeking to explain sightings through scientific and logical means where possible, while acknowledging the existence of truly unexplained cases. The magazine encourages reader participation through reporting and by offering back issues for sale, promoting a community of interest in UFO research. The emphasis on detailed analysis, expert opinions, and the use of techniques like digitalization indicates a commitment to rigorous investigation.

This issue of UFO-NYT, dated 1/86, focuses heavily on the Pascagoula UFO abduction case from October 1973. The cover headline teases Dr. Harder's involvement and his journey to Pascagoula. The magazine delves into the testimonies of Charles Hickson and Calvin Parker, the two individuals who claimed to have been abducted.

The Pascagoula Incident

The core of the issue is the detailed account of the Pascagoula incident. Dr. Harder's investigation is presented, including his interviews with Hickson and Parker on Saturday, October 13th. He notes their initial distress and their desire for scientific and official attention rather than media sensationalism. Dr. Harder gathered descriptions of the beings, noting their lack of neck and helmet, crab-like hands with two fingers, and a slit-like mouth. He also described a 'slit-like mouth' as a further detail.

Hypnosis was employed by Dr. Julius Bosco to help the witnesses recall details and alleviate their nervousness. While the hypnosis sessions yielded limited new information, they did help alleviate Hickson's headache. Dr. Harder conducted further interviews and hypnosis on Sunday, October 14th.

Press statements from Dr. Harder and Dr. Hynek were significant, though the magazine notes they were inaccurate and perhaps gave the incident more credibility than it deserved. Dr. Hynek is quoted as saying the individuals were not 'unbalanced,' while Dr. Harder is quoted as stating there was 'certainly something here that was not earthly.'

Witness Testimonies and Details

The magazine includes extensive transcripts of interviews, particularly with Oberstløjtnant Derrington of the Security Police. Hickson and Parker recount their experience of being lifted into the craft. Hickson describes the interior as glowing, with no visible lamps or instruments. He describes the beings as human-like but with claw-like hands instead of fingers. Parker recalls losing consciousness and feeling as if he were a ghost.

Details about the craft are provided, including its oval shape and silent hovering. The witnesses describe a humming sound when the craft approached. The beings' physical characteristics are further detailed, with Hickson noting their pale appearance and lack of discernible feet or toes. The beings' actions are described as non-hostile, but the mental impact on Parker was significant.

Analysis and Skepticism

The issue also presents a more critical perspective on the case. Philip Klass, a UFO skeptic, is mentioned for his investigation into the qualifications of the polygraph tester who administered a 'lie detector test' to Hickson, which reportedly confirmed his truthfulness. Klass's findings suggest the tester was not qualified, and that polygraph tests only indicate if a person believes their own testimony, not the objective truth.

Further doubts are raised about inconsistencies in Hickson's account, such as the changing description of the object's size and the time of the encounter. The lack of independent witnesses, despite the alleged landing site being near a busy highway, is also highlighted.

John A. Keel's research into animal mutilations is mentioned, with the magazine questioning the connection between these events and UFOs. The article suggests that many reports of animal mutilations might be explained by natural causes, sensationalism, or 'cult' activities, rather than extraterrestrial involvement.

Other Articles

Beyond the Pascagoula case, the issue includes a section on astronomy, discussing the discovery of VB 8 B, a potential planet around another star, and the ongoing search for extrasolar planets. There is also a report on a UFO evening in Aalborg, Denmark, organized by SUFOI, which featured presentations on UFO sightings and astronomical equipment.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently presents UFO phenomena with a degree of seriousness, dedicating significant space to detailed witness accounts and investigative efforts. However, it also incorporates elements of critical analysis, highlighting inconsistencies, questioning the validity of certain evidence (like polygraph tests), and exploring alternative explanations for reported events. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, acknowledging the possibility of genuine UFO phenomena while also being cautious about sensationalism and unverified claims. The inclusion of a 'Brevkasse' (Letters to the Editor) and 'Spørg SUFOI' (Ask SUFOI) sections indicates an engagement with reader queries and a desire to address a range of UFO-related topics.

This issue of UFO-NYT, dated 1/86, features a prominent cover story titled "UFOer skræmmer Kina" (UFOs Scare China), accompanied by a dramatic illustration of soldiers firing at a UFO. The magazine is published in Danish and focuses on UFO phenomena.

UFOer skræmmer Kina

The main article, written by Kim Møller Hansen, critiques the popular science magazine "Illustreret Videnskab" for not properly citing its sources, specifically an article about UFOs in China and the Soviet Union. Hansen reveals that this article in "NYT ASPEKT" (issue 5, 1985) was based on a report from the "National Enquirer" dated November 6, 1984, a publication Hansen describes as unreliable.

The article then presents the "National Enquirer's" sensational claims about UFO sightings in China, including descriptions of hundreds of Chinese soldiers firing at a landed alien spaceship and thousands of people witnessing a flying saucer the size of a football field.

Paul Dong, an overseas editor-in-chief of the Chinese Journal of UFO Research and a consultant for the China UFO Research Organization, is quoted extensively. He states that millions of Chinese now believe in UFOs due to the vast number of observations. Dong reports that there are 28 research groups in China collecting UFO data, spurred by numerous sightings.

Dong recounts several specific incidents from his research:

• 1977 Incident in Fukien Province: A clear, luminous UFO landed on a hilltop between Taiwan and China. Two farmers reported it, leading to the area being surrounded by 300 soldiers. As soldiers approached, the UFO's light intensified. Witnesses described it as a silver wing, half a kilometer long, without propellers or engines, reflecting light like a mirror. Many soldiers felt dizzy. A humming sound was heard, and the light grew brighter. The commanding officer ordered soldiers to fire, but the projectiles had no effect. The silver craft then slowly took off and disappeared within 20 seconds.
• 1972 Incident: Two UFOs flew over a large crowd at an outdoor cinema, just a few meters above the ground. They were oval, about 8 meters long, with slit-like windows. Their intense white light turned night into day, causing mass panic, injuries, and deaths.
• July 1981 Incident: Thousands of people in 12 northern and central Chinese provinces saw a huge, disc-shaped craft, the size of a football field, crossing the night sky. It had windows on its upper half and six strips of golden light around its hull. Astronomer Wan Sichao in Peking agreed that the object could have been visitors from outer space.

Challenger-UFOet...

The second part of the magazine discusses an event involving the space shuttle Challenger over Denmark. On October 30, 1985, Ole J. Knudsen and Holger Andersen, members of SUFOIs (a Danish UFO organization), were attempting to observe the Challenger as it passed over Denmark. Due to cloudy weather, they saw nothing.

However, later that evening, a man from the Langå area reported seeing two UFOs in a break in the clouds around 5:20 PM. These were identified as the Challenger and its fuel tank shortly after they had separated.

The following evening, October 31, 1985, Holger Andersen successfully photographed the Challenger as it passed through the constellation Aquila around 6:39 PM. The photograph was taken with Kodacolor 100 ASA film with an exposure time of approximately 45 seconds, resulting in the Challenger appearing as a long light trail.

Subscription Reminder

The issue concludes with a reminder to renew subscriptions to UFO-NYT.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's stance appears to be one of serious investigation into UFO phenomena, while also being critical of sensationalism and poor journalistic practices, as exemplified by the critique of "Illustreret Videnskab." The publication aims to inform its readers about reported sightings, both globally (China) and locally (Denmark), and encourages reader engagement through subscription renewals. The themes explored include mass sightings, military encounters with UFOs, potential government cover-ups (implied by the mention of Mao's era), and the intersection of UFO phenomena with space exploration (Challenger). The editorial stance favors presenting documented cases and expert opinions, even if sourced from potentially less credible outlets, for the reader's own assessment.