UFO Nyt - No 3 1991

Magazine Overview

Title: ufo nyt
Issue: Nr. 3
Volume: 33. årg.
Year: 1991
Publisher: SUFOI (Skandinavisk UFO Information)
Language: Danish

This issue of "ufo nyt" delves into several prominent UFO phenomena, focusing on the "UFO wave" in Belgium during 1989-1990, the enduring mystery of the "Flight 19" aircraft disappearance in the Bermuda Triangle, and the scientific search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI).

UFO Wave in Belgium

The magazine details the significant UFO wave that swept through Belgium starting in November 1989. It highlights numerous sightings, with a particular emphasis on triangular objects exhibiting three powerful lights. The article discusses the common characteristics of these sightings, noting that most were close encounters (1st or 2nd degree) and rarely involved actual landings or reports of "ufonauts." The prevailing shape reported was a "flying saucer," but approximately 90% of observations involved three strong lights forming a triangle. Descriptions of the lights varied, with common colors being white, red, orange, and yellow, and some objects being described as "metallic." Most sightings were silent, though some reported a faint humming sound. The article mentions the involvement of organizations like SOBEPS (The Belgian Society for the Study of Space Phenomena) in communicating with military authorities, viewing this as a positive step towards broader recognition of private UFO research.

Several theories are explored to explain the Belgian sightings:

• ULM Theory (Ultra Light Motorized Aircraft): Initially considered, this theory was largely dismissed due to the prolonged nature of the sightings and the bizarre descriptions.
• Testing of Military Aircraft: The idea that the Belgian Air Force was testing new aircraft and observing public reactions was also discounted due to the duration and risks involved.
• Mass Hysteria: The article suggests that media attention, particularly after a witness appeared in a national newspaper, may have amplified sightings, leading people to perceive triangular shapes in the sky. A specific incident involving a Galaxy aircraft flying low is presented as a potential explanation for many reports.
• Natural Explanations: The magazine acknowledges that approximately 50% of cases can be explained by various aircraft types, including ULM-fly and military flights.

Despite the various explanations, the article notes that some events remain particularly intriguing and difficult to explain naturally.

Bermuda Triangle Mystery: Flight 19

This section revisits the famous disappearance of "Flight 19," a squadron of five Avenger bomber planes that vanished on December 5, 1945, during a training flight originating from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The article reports on a sensational news item from Danish newspapers claiming that wreckage of these Avenger planes had been found 16 km off the coast of Fort Lauderdale at a depth of 230 meters. The discovery was reportedly made by the salvage vessel "Deep Sea," operated by Scientific Search Project, which was initially searching for old Spanish shipwrecks. Robert Cervoni, director of the search firm, stated that they were trying to identify the planes. Photos reportedly showed the characteristic cockpit of an Avenger, and identification numbers like "28" and letters "FT" (associated with the Fort Lauderdale base) were mentioned. No human remains were found in the sunken aircraft. The US Navy initially declined to comment on the discovery. The article also references earlier claims by treasure hunter Mel Fisher and FAA employee Jon Myhre regarding the location of the lost planes, with Myhre attributing the disappearances to poor weather and lack of fuel rather than UFOs.

The article details the sequence of events for "Flight 19," including Lieutenant Charles C. Taylor's radio communications indicating they were lost and possibly disoriented. The search for the missing planes also resulted in the disappearance of a search aircraft, a Martin Mariner, which was reportedly seen as a fireball. The article concludes that while many theories exist, the Bermuda Triangle remains a subject of fascination, with authors like Charles Berlitz and Lawrence David Kusche contributing to its mystique.

Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI)

Astrophysicist Thomas R. McDonough, coordinator for the SETI project at The Planetary Society, discusses the ongoing search for extraterrestrial intelligence. He expresses a high probability that humanity is not alone in the universe, given the vast number of stars and galaxies. McDonough suggests that the origin of life on Earth might be a natural process that could occur elsewhere.

He addresses the argument that if older, advanced civilizations existed, they would have colonized our galaxy. McDonough proposes alternative scenarios, such as advanced civilizations remaining within their own solar systems and utilizing them fully without needing to colonize. He emphasizes that Earth not being colonized does not mean we are alone.

The challenges of SETI are discussed, particularly the "noise" generated by Earth's own radio transmissions, which interfere with listening for faint signals from space. NASA faces difficulties in the microwave band (1-10 GHz), while other projects, like Planetary Society's, use different equipment and software to filter out noise. The article explains two primary methods for searching: scanning the entire sky or focusing on stars similar to our Sun, which are considered more likely to host life.

Regarding the connection between SETI and UFOs, McDonough expresses skepticism about many UFO reports due to a lack of concrete evidence. He notes that while he is interested in UFO reports, the phenomena often lack verifiable details, such as landings in prominent locations or conclusive physical evidence. He points out that materials found at alleged UFO landing sites have typically been identified as terrestrial in origin.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained aerial phenomena, historical mysteries, and the scientific quest for answers. The magazine adopts a stance of investigating and reporting on these topics, presenting various theories and evidence without necessarily endorsing any single explanation. There is a clear interest in documenting UFO sightings, analyzing their characteristics, and exploring potential causes, ranging from misidentification and natural phenomena to more speculative theories involving advanced technology or extraterrestrial origins. The editorial approach seems to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to consider the presented information and draw their own conclusions, while also highlighting the ongoing efforts of both private organizations and scientific bodies in these fields.

Title: Mellem himmel og jord (Between Heaven and Earth)
Issue: 11
Volume: 1
Date: 1991
Publisher: SUFOI
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
ISSN: 0903-7772
Price: 20 DKK

This issue of "Mellem himmel og jord" delves into various topics related to ufology, astronomy, and unexplained phenomena, featuring articles on SETI research, alleged UFO sightings, astronomical events, and the investigation of controversial images.

SETI and the Problem of UFOs

The article "SETI" features insights from Thomas McDonough, who highlights the challenges in SETI research, including the lack of proper education among many UFO researchers, which blurs the lines between SETI and UFO investigations. He notes that public perception often conflates the two, making it difficult to gain support and funding for SETI projects. McDonough also discusses the potential implications of contact with an extraterrestrial civilization, suggesting it could foster a sense of global unity and help solve humanity's problems.

The 'Talking Mars Face' Debacle

"Kan Mars-ansigtet tale?" (Can the Mars Face Speak?) investigates the sensational claim that a rock formation on Mars, resembling a human face, was communicating. The article debunks this story, attributing it to sensationalist reporting, possibly from publications like "Weekly World News." It points out inconsistencies in the claims, such as the lack of evidence for the Russian "Mars 23" probe sending 2,000 images and the implausibility of detecting 'mouth movements' in the images. The author suggests that any perceived movements could be due to sand or lighting effects, and that the story is likely fabricated.

Pyramid Energy: Pure Gas?

"Pyramideenergi - det rene gas" (Pyramid Energy - Pure Gas?) examines the concept of 'pyramid energy,' a supposed energy emitted by pyramid models that proponents claim can sharpen razor blades, preserve food, and cure illnesses. The article highlights that physicists are unaware of such energy and that experimental evidence, such as a wine-aging test, has been inconclusive or failed to be replicated. A test involving aging wine in a plexiglass pyramid showed only a marginal improvement compared to control bottles, and further tests indicated that any perceived difference was likely due to environmental factors like temperature and air circulation, not pyramid energy itself.

UFOs and Nuclear Bases

"Mystiske objekter over atom-baser" (Mysterious Objects Over Atomic Bases) explores a historical pattern of UFO sightings occurring near nuclear installations in the USA. Citing Captain Edward Ruppelt's work in the 1950s, the article notes that a significant number of UFO reports were plotted near atomic facilities. It raises questions about why UFOs might be interested in these sites and why organizations like the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) have representatives involved in UFO research projects, collecting air samples, and measuring radioactivity. Several specific incidents are detailed, including sightings near Savannah River, Hanford, Los Alamos, Oak Ridge, and McGuire.

Aviation and Space News

Several shorter articles cover recent developments in aviation and space:

• "Videofilm undersøges af forsvaret" (Video Film Investigated by the Defense): This piece discusses a video recording made by Tom Joneström in Sweden, which appears to show two rocket-like objects. The Swedish defense is investigating the footage, which has also been shown to rocket experts.
• "Nær ved - igen !" (Close Again!): This article reports on the asteroid 1991 BA, which passed Earth at a remarkably close distance of 170,500 km in January 1991, making it the closest known asteroid flyby. The asteroid's size is estimated to be around 9 meters.
• "Meteor ned i have" (Meteor Falls in Garden): An account of a meteorite that fell in Arthur Pettifor's garden in the UK. The 767-gram meteorite was identified as a chondrite stone meteorite.
• "Kig på himlen" (Look at the Sky): A celestial calendar for autumn, detailing the visibility of planets like Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Mars, and Saturn, along with information on meteor showers.
• "Spændende video" (Exciting Video): Reports on a video recording from Neuwrode, Belgium, showing a bright, luminous object. Analysis by the Belgian Air Force suggests the object is not an aircraft.
• "Mystikken i Nevada" (The Mystery of Nevada): This article delves into the "dark research" (Black World Research) conducted in Nevada, focusing on secret military projects and the sightings of unusual aerial vehicles, including triangular craft and advanced jet aircraft like the "Project Aurora" and the A-12.

The 'Uonaut' Photo Saga

"Dukke-foto dukker op igen" (Doll Photo Appears Again) revisits the controversial "ufonaut" photos that have circulated in UFO magazines. The article clarifies that these images depict a rubber doll used in an exhibition, not the remains of an alien from an event like the Roswell crash. It traces the photos' journey from photographer Christian Page to various researchers and publications, debunking the sensational claims associated with them.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, with a critical yet open-minded approach. There is a clear effort to debunk sensationalist claims while also presenting evidence and theories related to UFOs, extraterrestrial intelligence, and astronomical events. The editorial stance appears to favor scientific investigation and factual reporting, as seen in the detailed analysis of the Mars face story and the pyramid energy experiments. The publication also serves as a platform for astronomical observations and news, as well as information about the SUFOI organization and its activities.

This issue of "TOP SECRET" magazine, dated Spring 1991 (Issue 21, Volume 15), delves into various unexplained phenomena, with a strong focus on UFO sightings, particularly those near nuclear facilities, and the burgeoning field of crop circle research. The magazine also touches upon the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) and includes a section on books related to cryptozoology.

UFO Sightings Near Nuclear Facilities

The magazine presents a series of detailed accounts of UFO sightings in the United States, often occurring in proximity to nuclear power plants. These reports highlight the persistent interest and concern surrounding such incidents.

Saluda Dam, South Carolina (March 1975)

Mr. and Mrs. Jim Richardson reported seeing a UFO resembling two pie-forms joined together, hovering about 15 meters above their car. The object had red and blue lights and an octagonal base, and it ascended and disappeared with incredible speed after about 10 minutes.

Loring Air Force Base, Maine (October 27, 1975)

Staff Sergeant Danny K. Lewis observed a UFO hovering approximately 50 meters above a nuclear weapon storage area. The base was on high alert. The object, described as orange-red, was tracked by radar for over 40 minutes. It descended to within a meter of the ground, resembling an "American football," and was estimated to be the length of four cars before disappearing quickly.

Savannah Nuclear Plant, Georgia (November 22, 1975)

Pilot Frank Auman Jr. and UFO researcher Arlan Keith Andrews observed a shining white UFO near the Savannah Nuclear Plant. The object performed several hops and sharp turns for four to five minutes before vanishing. The Jacksonville Control Centre confirmed three UFO observations in the area, either by radar or visually.

McGuire Nuclear Station, North Carolina (March 1978)

Multiple individuals reported seeing two "milk-white" UFOs hovering at treetop level near the McGuire Nuclear Station.

Lake Norman Area, North Carolina (April 24, 1980)

Carpenters Pete Link and Jeff Schlatter witnessed a clear, yellow UFO ascend vertically from Lake Norman, perform a loop, and disappear rapidly.

Lake Norman Area, North Carolina (October 18, 1982)

Gary Fortenberry and Jimmy Bumgarner reported seeing a dark, silver, oval UFO with "four legs" hovering over a fog bank near the Catawba River. It was estimated to be about 100 meters above the ground. This area around Lake Norman has been a hotspot for UFO observations for decades. Reports from McGuire Nuclear Station indicated that power supply problems occurred when UFOs were sighted in the vicinity, and such reports were sent directly to AEC headquarters.

Gaffney, South Carolina (October 13, 1983)

Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Ruppe were awakened by a siren-like sound and observed a glowing, oval UFO hovering about 5 meters above a neighboring property. The incident was accompanied by intense barking from local dogs.

Indiana Point Nuclear Plant, New York (June 24, 1984)

Security guards at the Indiana Point Nuclear Plant observed a large, diamond-shaped UFO, estimated to be about 150 meters long, hovering over the plant. The object's color shifted from white to blue, red, green, and amber-yellow. It approached within 10 meters of reactor number three, causing all of the plant's alarm, security, and communication systems to fail. Security personnel were prepared to engage the object, but it disappeared before any action could be taken. UFO researcher Philip J. Imbrogno interviewed witnesses, and reports indicated that UFOs continued to visit nuclear installations in the late 1980s.

Crop Circle Investigations

The magazine highlights the growing interest in crop circles, which gained significant media attention the previous year. It details efforts to investigate these formations.

Study Visit to England

Clas Svahn, the new chairman of UFO-Sweden, and Håkon Ekstrand, editor of UFO-Sweden's sister publication UFO-Aktuellt, planned a visit to England to study crop circles. They intended to conduct video recordings for a Swedish TV channel and were to be accompanied by a journalist from Sveriges Riksradio. They also aimed to meet with English UFO researchers, including Paul Fuller, editor of "The Crop Watcher," and potentially Dr. George Terence Meaden.

UFO-Sweden's Large Project

UFO-Sweden launched a major project to collect and analyze reports of possible crop circle occurrences in Sweden. The project has received media coverage, raising public awareness. The investigation involves UFO-Sweden's 70 field researchers and 800 weather observers from the Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI). Collaboration with the Swedish Defence Research Agency (FOA) in Stockholm provides access to expertise in meteorology and plasma physics.

Call to Action

The magazine encourages readers to be observant for crop circles, especially when traveling by air. Readers who spot such phenomena are urged to contact the Scandinavian UFO Information center immediately to report their findings before the harvest.

SETI Research

The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) is also discussed. Argentina has joined the effort, with The Planetary Society facilitating an agreement with Argentine engineers and Paul Horowitz at Harvard. New listening equipment has been set up in Argentina, allowing for simultaneous scanning of both the northern and southern hemispheres for the first time.

Thomas McDonough is quoted discussing the probabilities of intelligent life in the universe, suggesting that if life arises, there's a good chance intelligent beings will develop. He emphasizes the importance of actively searching: "If we don't search, we will find nothing. If we search, we will at least explore the universe. Let's get started."

Other Topics

Submarine Report Investigation

A brief mention is made of an ongoing investigation into a report about a submarine-like object emerging from the Baltic Sea and ascending into the air near Bornholm on July 26, 1990. The magazine appeals for any new witnesses or information regarding a Danish boat named "Draupner" mentioned in the original report.

Danish Rocket Accident

An incident involving a Danish Army Artillery School rocket is described, where a "Redeye" anti-aircraft missile was accidentally fired and went off course, detonating after 15-20 seconds.

Swedish Video Sighting

A recent Swedish video recording of a mysterious object is mentioned, with the film being analyzed by the Swedish Defense. The magazine promises further details.

Book Reviews

The magazine features a section on books by Lars Thomas, including "Strange Animals and Strange Creatures" and "Mysterious Animals," which are described as encyclopedias and bibliographies related to cryptozoology (e.g., Bigfoot, Loch Ness Monster, Yeti). Another book, "Fantasy and Reality in Nature," is also highlighted. Additionally, a book by Willy Wegner about Uri Geller and a collection of animal stories by Søren Olsen are reviewed.

General Twining's Statement

The issue recalls a statement from General Nathan F. Twining in 1947, indicating that all relevant data concerning UFOs would be sent to the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, with a particular emphasis on UFOs and their potential connection to sensitive government sites like nuclear power plants. There's an underlying theme of government secrecy and the public's right to know. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging investigation and the sharing of information, while also acknowledging the scientific challenges involved in areas like SETI and the study of phenomena like crop circles. The magazine acts as a platform for reporting sightings, research findings, and related discussions within the UFO and paranormal communities.