UFO Nyt - No 1 1991

Magazine Overview

Title: ufo nyt
Issue: Nr. 1
Volume: 33. årg.
Year: 1991
Publisher: Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
ISSN: 0049-4976

Main Cover Story

The cover of 'ufo nyt' issue number 1 of its 33rd year (1991) features a textured, reddish-brown background with a prominent oval shape in the center. The main headlines tease several intriguing topics: 'A New Exciting Theory', 'Can You Taste a UFO?', 'Many Reports in 1990', and 'Danish Photo Puzzles Experts'.

Content Summary

"Telefonstorm i rapportcentralen!" (Telephone Storm at the Report Center!)

This article details a significant surge in UFO reports received by SUFOI in October 1990, particularly concerning 'fireball' sightings. The author, Torben Birkeholm, describes how a single sighting in North Jutland led to a 'telephone storm' with over 50 calls on the first night and more than 200 in total over a week. While many reports were initially attributed to meteors, the sheer volume and consistency of observations prompted further investigation. The article highlights the challenges faced by SUFOI's volunteer representatives in handling the influx of calls and the need for public assistance in documenting these phenomena. It also includes a comprehensive list of Danish UFO observations registered between October 1st and December 31st, 1990, detailing dates, times, locations, durations, colors, and potential identifications.

"Gode bøger om UFOer" (Good Books about UFOs)

This section provides a curated list of recommended books on UFOs and related subjects. It highlights SUFOI's own annual publication, 'UFO-Vision', which offers reviews and commentary on the latest books in the field. Specific titles mentioned include 'UFO-Vision 1988', 'UFO-Vision 1989', and 'UFO-Vision 1990-91'. Other recommended books are 'UFOer over Polen' by Bronislaw Rzepecki, 'The Circles Effect and Its Mysteries' by George Terence Meaden, and 'Phenomena. A Book of Wonders' by John Michell. The section also provides ordering information for these books.

"SUFOIS aktivitetskalender 1991" (SUFOI's Activity Calendar 1991)

This calendar outlines SUFOI's planned activities for 1991, including regular meetings for its regional groups in Aalborg, Århus, and Odense. It also lists public lectures scheduled throughout Jutland and details a special project titled 'Fokus på skjulte observationer' (Focus on Hidden Observations). Contact information for SUFOI's alarm central, information line, and lecture department is provided.

"Dansk foto driller eksperterne" (Danish Photo Puzzles Experts)

This article, authored by Kim Møller Hansen, delves into the analysis of a photograph taken in 1971 by Mogens Keblovszki in Århus. The image, originally overlooked, revealed a peculiar, disc-like object in the upper left corner after the film was developed a month later. The article details the investigation process, including the involvement of the American organization Ground Saucer Watch (GSW), which specializes in 'computer analysis' of UFO photos. GSW's initial conclusion suggested the object might be a hoax, possibly created by photographing a 'snurretop' (spinning top) or a cutout model. However, the article presents arguments against this, noting the object's asymmetry and lack of shadows consistent with a hoax. The analysis also employed a technique to enhance the image, revealing details like faint scratches and the absence of suspension points, further complicating the interpretation. The article concludes that while GSW's analysis is not entirely convincing, the photo remains an intriguing case, with the object being darker than its background and appearing to be in focus, suggesting it might be closer to the camera than the background buildings.

"Mysteriet i græsplænen" (The Mystery in the Lawn)

Ole Henningsen writes about a peculiar incident where a perfectly square, scorched patch appeared overnight in his family's lawn. Initially suspected to be due to chemical contamination or even a UFO landing, the mystery was solved when it was realized that a piece of clear plastic left on the grass had concentrated the sun's heat, causing the grass to burn. The article also references a humorous piece by Kelvin Linnemann in Jyllandsposten about similar circular, withered grass patches appearing in gardens and allotments across Denmark during the summer of 1990, often attributed to mysterious causes but likely explained by simple environmental factors.

"Et globalt fænomen" (A Global Phenomenon)

This section broadens the scope to discuss 'crop circles' and similar phenomena observed globally. It notes that while crop circles are most frequently reported in wheat fields due to their visibility, similar circular marks have been found in various other crops and even in snow and sand across numerous countries, including England, Japan, Canada, USA, Australia, and Brazil. The article highlights specific cases, such as the formation of circles in Japan in 1986 and 1990, and the discovery of numerous circles in Australia in 1989 and 1990. It also mentions the controversial 'Gulf Breeze' photos and the work of researchers like Colin Andrews and Pat Delgado. The text suggests that some aerial phenomena, like those observed in Victoria, Australia, may not be stationary ground marks but rather airborne formations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of 'ufo nyt' strongly emphasizes the importance of rigorous, critical investigation of UFO phenomena. SUFOI positions itself as an organization dedicated to collecting and analyzing firsthand accounts and photographic evidence. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness, willing to explore various theories but demanding evidence and logical reasoning. The magazine highlights the challenges of volunteer-run organizations in processing a large volume of reports and the need for public engagement. The recurring themes include detailed reporting of specific sightings, analysis of photographic evidence, exploration of potential explanations (both conventional and unconventional), and the cataloging of UFO-related activities and literature. The publication aims to provide a serious and critical platform for discussing UFO phenomena in Scandinavia and beyond.

This issue of "Cirkel-mystikken" (Circle Mystery) from UFO-Nyt, dated 1990, focuses on the enigmatic phenomenon of crop circles. The cover headline, "Et halmstrå i hvedemarken" (A straw in the wheat field), hints at the search for explanations within the vastness of these formations. The magazine features contributions from UFO-Sverige, with an introduction by Clas Svahn and illustrations by Lars Thomas.

The Mystery of Crop Circles

The article begins by describing the widespread fascination with crop circles, which have moved from being dismissed as hoaxes to being considered "truly interesting" by science. The patterns are noted for their beauty but also for their subtle imperfections, like slight oval shapes and varying distances between rings, suggesting they are not perfectly stamped. The dynamic force behind their creation is evident, and the phenomenon has become a symbol of the inexplicable, appearing on merchandise and even album covers. The question is posed whether these formations are messages from space.

Historical Context

The phenomenon is not new, with the first report dating back to August 1678 in Herfordshire, England, then attributed to the devil. For centuries, folklore blamed elves, witches, and whirlwinds. Today, flying saucers are a popular explanation. While historical documentation is sparse, the article suggests that researchers, ufologists, and journalists may have overlooked older observations until the phenomenon gained prominence.

Key Researchers and Theories

Professor Terence Meaden, a leading crop circle researcher, has documented around 100 reports, many from the period 1918-1979. Despite a notable double circle photographed in 1977, the phenomenon remained largely unknown until 1980. The discovery of a formation near the famous White Horse at Westbury Hill in Wiltshire in 1980 marked a turning point, leading to the discovery of thousands of circles, with 600 reported in England alone in the summer of 1990. It remains unclear whether this increase reflects actual growth or simply more reporting.

Meaden, who also studies tornadoes and whirlwinds, proposes a theory involving atmospheric phenomena. His model suggests that wind fronts hitting hills create turbulent air currents and vortices. When these vortices become unstable, they form a bubble that descends to the ground, creating a circle. He further hypothesizes that an ionized tube of air forms a plasma vortex, a rotating plasma sphere resembling ball lightning, which creates the circular patterns. This theory, detailed in his book "The Circles Effect and its Mysteries," requires introducing a new scientific phenomenon.

Colin Andrews, another researcher, believes the circles are created by an unknown force controlled by an unknown intelligence, possibly linked to ancient archaeological sites in England. Erik Witalis from the Swedish Defence Research Agency suggests a theory involving rotating plasma, similar to Meaden's, but acknowledges it doesn't fully explain satellite circles or key formations.

Eyewitness Accounts

Several eyewitness accounts are presented:

• Mr. Barnes (Wiltshire, 1982): Described a "wave" forming a complete circle in about four seconds.
• Observation near Silbury Hill (1989): An orange light descended, flattened, became oval, and then disappeared, leaving behind a series of circles.
• Wilfred Gomez and Simon (1989): Witnessed a rotating column of light forming a circle at night.
• Witness in Wiltshire (1983): Described grass swaying and laying down in a spiral to form a perfect circle within half a minute, accompanied by a high-frequency humming sound.

Notable Formations and Characteristics

• Alton Barnes Formation (1990): A 100-meter long, 30-meter wide formation with four unusual "F"-like appendages, suggesting a possible hidden message.
• Milk Hill Circles (Wansdyke): Also featured similar appendages.
• Beckhampton Triangle (1990): An incomplete circle deformed by a nearby tractor track, suggesting the influence of tractor tracks on the ground's electrical field.

The article notes that the complexity of formations has increased over the years, with new features like appendages appearing after 1990.

Electrical and Magnetic Phenomena

Several instances of strange electrical phenomena associated with crop circles are reported:

• A wireless microphone failed to work inside an Alton Barnes circle, while functioning normally just outside.
• Unexplained car stops have occurred in areas with many circles, sometimes coinciding with sightings of lights.
• A notable incident involved two cars stopping simultaneously after one was overtaken by a red sports car, with both cars experiencing electrical system failures.

Hoaxes and Genuine Formations

The issue addresses the existence of hoaxes, citing examples from "Mail on Sunday" and German TV where men created large circles using ropes and their feet. However, it distinguishes these from genuine formations, noting that hoaxes often leave behind evidence like broken stalks at the root or ground indentation. Genuine circles are described as having layers of stalks laid in different directions and two centers, which are difficult to replicate.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine emphasizes the scientific and public interest in crop circles, highlighting the ongoing research and the growing number of reports. It presents a balanced view, acknowledging both the inexplicable nature of the phenomenon and the possibility of natural explanations, such as atmospheric vortices. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging further investigation into these mysterious patterns that continue to appear in fields worldwide. The recurring theme is the persistent mystery and the search for a definitive explanation, whether natural or intelligent in origin.

Related Phenomena

The issue also briefly touches upon other unexplained phenomena, including the "Stronsay Monster" (a decomposed whale or shark) and giant squid, suggesting a broader interest in cryptozoology and unusual natural occurrences alongside the crop circle phenomenon.

Title: Mellem himmel og jord (Between heaven and earth)
Issue Number: 21
Document Type: Magazine Issue
Language: Danish
Country of Publication: Denmark

This issue of 'Mellem himmel og jord' explores a range of intriguing topics, from mysterious sea creatures and astronomical phenomena to the search for extraterrestrial life and unusual animal encounters. The magazine blends reports on unexplained events with practical astronomical guidance and discussions on scientific discoveries.

Cryptids and Unexplained Sea Creatures

The issue opens with a detailed account of a mysterious creature found on Bungalow Beach in Gambia. The creature, described as large and lacking a blowhole or distinct neck, bore a resemblance to a kronosaurus, a type of marine reptile that lived between 65 and 136 million years ago. Owen Burnham, a witness, created drawings of the animal before it was dissected and its skull sold as a 'crocodile skull' to tourists. The article notes that science has no record of a living creature matching this description, suggesting it could be a type of beaked whale or an ancient ancestor of whales.

Further accounts of unusual finds include a 2.5-meter long glob that washed ashore on Bermuda in late 1989, and a strange carcass found at Santa Cruz in 1925, which researchers believe might be a rare beaked whale from the southern Pacific.

Astronomical Observations and Events

Under the byline 'AF KIM HORSEVAD', the magazine provides a guide to observing planets in the night sky.

Planetary Visibility:

• Mercury: Difficult to spot due to its proximity to the Sun, but can be seen near the Moon on March 17th and in the west after sunset in late March. On May 12th, it will be 9° south of the Moon in the east before sunrise.
• Venus: Easier to observe, appearing 6° south of the Moon on February 17th, 5° south on March 19th, and 2° south on April 17th. Venus exhibits phases similar to the Moon when viewed through a telescope.
• Mars: Will not be in opposition in 1991, meaning fewer viewing opportunities. It will be in Taurus until April, then move into Gemini. Mars will be close to the Moon (less than one degree apart) on April 20th and March 22nd.
• Jupiter: In opposition on January 29th, it will be clearly visible for much of the year. It will be 1.6° north of the Moon on February 26th and March 25th, and 1.9° north on April 21st. Jupiter has four large moons that can be observed, which are prone to eclipses and occultations.
• Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune: Will be in opposition in July, requiring patience for observation.

The article also provides a conversion for angular measurements: 1 degree, when a ruler is held at arm's length, corresponds to 9 mm.

Meteor Showers:

• Lyrids: Around April 22nd, there will be an opportunity to see meteor showers originating from the constellation Lyra, featuring the bright star Vega. The Lyrids shower is expected around 10 PM on April 22nd, visible in the northeast.

For further information, readers can contact Kim Horsevad at Humlely 9, 9830 Tårs, or call 98 96 19 94.

Bibliotekscentralen has published a new book list on astronomical topics, available for free at local libraries.

Mars Exploration and the 'Face on Mars'

Walter Hain, an Austrian enthusiast, has dedicated years to studying Mars and has published a book titled 'Wir vom Mars' (We from Mars). He is currently organizing a petition to support a manned mission to Mars, which he envisions as a collaborative effort by space-faring nations. This mission would include further investigation of the 'Face on Mars' and the search for non-terrestrial life.

Sierre Leone has issued a series of special stamps to commemorate the upcoming exploration of Mars, including one featuring the 'Face on Mars'. These stamps were quickly sold out. NASA, however, dismisses the 'Face on Mars' as an optical illusion caused by light and shadows.

The magazine also notes that UFO-Nyts readers may have encountered articles about the 'Face on Mars' in previous issues (UFO-Nyt no. 3/1988). Readers interested in supporting the petition can send a self-addressed stamped envelope with 3.50 DKK in stamps to Ole Henningsen, Højrebyvej 59, 4920 Søllested.

Tycho Brahe Planetarium

The Tycho Brahe Planetarium is presenting new shows:

• 'Liv i Universet' (Life in the Universe): This show explores questions about extraterrestrial civilizations and life in our solar system, including the possibility of life on Mars.
• Omnimax Film: A 3D film experience that allows viewers to 'fly' through the world of atoms and galaxies. The film, titled 'Vi kan flyve' (We Can Fly), covers the history of flight from early attempts to future manned landings. It features Danish narration by actors Tom McEwan and Nis Bank-Mikkelsen.

Unusual Animal Encounters and Reports

'Crazy Turtles' in New York:

In April 1990, a film about 'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles' coincided with reports of giant snapping turtles (over 25 kg) in New York City's sewer system. Lawrence Mirra, an inspector with the New York sanitation department, noted that while they weren't yet 'Ninja-sized', they were growing.

In a separate incident in Balch Springs, Texas, on June 5th, 1990, Troy Brewer was robbed by two men who threatened him with a turtle, demanding money.

Yeti-like Creature in the Soviet Union:

On August 15th, 1990, Soviet border guards in eastern Russia were put on high alert after encountering a two-meter-tall creature with glowing eyes, described as resembling the Yeti. The creature was later seen attempting to climb onto a border station roof before disappearing into the forest.

Books on Our Adventurous World

The magazine features a section on books available through SUFOI, focusing on cryptozoology and unexplained phenomena:

• 'Sære dyr og mærkelige væsner' (Strange Animals and Peculiar Creatures) by Lars Thomas: A 57-page encyclopedia of cryptids, concepts, people, and events in cryptozoology, including Bigfoot, the Loch Ness Monster, and the Yeti.
• 'Mystiske dyr' (Mysterious Animals) by Lars Thomas: A comprehensive bibliography with over 3,000 references to books and articles on cryptids, presented in three volumes totaling 174 pages.
• 'Fantasi og virkelighed i naturen' (Fantasy and Reality in Nature) by Lars Thomas: A collection of examples of both the fantastic and the real in nature.
• 'Mirakelmanden Uri Geller' (The Miracle Man Uri Geller) by Willy Wegner: A 35-page account of Uri Geller's performances in Denmark and his media appearances.
• 'Avisænder - og andre dyr' (Newspaper Ducks - and Other Animals) by Søren Olsen: A 48-page book with humorous and hair-raising animal stories from the press, featuring drawings.

Readers can order these books by sending the total amount plus 12.00 DKK for shipping to SUFOI, Postboks 6, 2820 Gentofte, using giro number 9 11 77 25. For a catalog of all sales materials, send 4.75 DKK in stamps.

Did You Know: There is Life on Earth!

A short piece from NASA states that the space agency can now confirm the existence of life on Earth, based on data from the 'Galileo' space probe. The probe's analysis of oxygen, nitrogen, and methane levels indicates the presence of life. Furthermore, the detection of radio signals suggests the possibility of intelligent life on Earth.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of the known and the unknown, embracing topics that challenge conventional scientific understanding. There is a clear interest in cryptozoology, UFO phenomena, and astronomical possibilities, including the search for extraterrestrial life. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded, presenting reports of unexplained events and encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond mainstream science, while also providing factual astronomical information and promoting scientific endeavors like space exploration. The inclusion of book reviews and event listings for planetariums suggests an aim to educate and engage readers interested in science, mystery, and the cosmos.