UFO Nyt - No 2 1993

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO-Nyt
Issue: Nr. 2
Volume: 35. årg.
Date: 2. kvartal 1993

This issue of UFO-Nyt, published by SUFOI (Skandinavisk UFO Information), delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, meteor sightings, and the challenges of establishing 'truth' in such investigations. The cover prominently features headlines about a mysterious light over Dragør, the key to Earth's past, the dramatic birth and death of a ball lightning, and a crash confirmed by a scientist.

Editorial: Hvad er sandhed? (What is truth?)

Per Andersen's editorial grapples with the elusive nature of 'truth,' particularly in the context of controversial subjects like UFOs. He critiques common definitions of truth: 'what science defines as true' (flawed because science can err), 'what the majority believes is true' (also flawed, as the majority can be wrong), and 'what each individual believes is true' (leading to subjective relativism). Andersen proposes that truth must be 'provable' through 'accepted methods.' However, he acknowledges the difficulty in defining 'accepted methods' and notes that even scientific approaches have limitations. He uses the example of a reported UFO crash in the same issue, where the central witnesses are anonymous, making verification difficult and challenging the notion of 'scientifically verifiable methods.' The editorial concludes that while the crash story is intriguing, it cannot be definitively presented as absolute truth.

UFOer til salg - se side 20

This is a brief mention of a section or advertisement related to UFOs for sale, directing the reader to page 20.

Indhold (Table of Contents)

• The table of contents lists numerous articles and reports, including:
• Hvad er sandhed? (What is truth?)
• Danske observationer (Danish Observations)
• Kig på himlen (Look at the Sky)
• Vi så et kuglelyns fødsel og død (We Saw the Birth and Death of a Ball Lightning)
• Hvornår så du ufoet? (When Did You See a UFO?)
• Stenen fra det ydre rum (The Stone from Outer Space)
• Korncirklerne spøger igen (Crop Circles Haunt Again)
• Ufologer må også under lup (Ufologists Under Scrutiny Too)
• CSICOP afslører - sig selv (CSICOP Reveals - Itself)
• Møde i forårssolen (Meeting in the Spring Sun)
• UFO-legat til Torben Birkeholm (UFO Grant to Torben Birkeholm)
• Videnskabsmand bekræfter ufostyrt i 1989 (Scientist Confirms UFO Crash in 1989)
• Spændende bøger til store og små (Exciting Books for Young and Old)
• Kort fortalt (In Brief)
• Utroligt (Incredible)

Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI) Information

This section provides contact details for SUFOI, including their postal address, phone number, and giro account. It outlines the organization's purpose and leadership, copyright information for articles, and details about subscriptions. SUFOI publishes four issues annually, and the subscription price for 1993 is Dkr. 197.00. Information on address changes is also provided.

Leder (Editorial)

This section likely contains the editorial 'Hvad er sandhed?' discussed earlier.

UFO-rapporter (UFO Reports)

Danske observationer (Danish Observations)

Genstand med kupler ved Tåstrup (Object with Domes near Tåstrup)
On March 22, 1992, a 71-year-old woman in Tåstrup observed a hovering object composed of three large, milky-white domes. The object made a humming sound and later appeared outside her apartment window. It moved slowly towards the northwest and disappeared into a cloud, changing color to red before vanishing.

Mystisk lys over Dragør (Mysterious Light over Dragør)
On March 30, 1992, Minnie Johansen observed a bright, white light phenomenon with rings over Dragør. The light moved north, increasing in size, and then descended steeply before continuing north. The phenomenon was silent and eventually disappeared behind trees.

Den falske måne (The False Moon)
This report details an observation from the autumn of 1956 where an observer saw a bright, red light in the southern sky that was initially mistaken for the moon. The object moved rapidly from its initial position to the northeast and remained stationary for a while before disappearing. The observer ruled out natural explanations like meteors or aircraft, suggesting it might have been a 'false moon.'

Anti-ufo-bølge i 1970erne? (Anti-UFO Wave in the 1970s?)

Mark Rodeghier of CUFOS is investigating a potential global decrease in UFO reports during the 1970s, which differed from localized UFO waves in the past. The article includes a table showing the number of reports to SUFOI from 1975 to 1981, indicating a decline in later years.

Kig på himlen (Look at the Sky)

This section provides astronomical information for June 1993, detailing the visibility of planets like Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn, along with their positions relative to the Moon.

Observationer (Observations)

Vi så et kuglelyns fødsel og død (We Saw the Birth and Death of a Ball Lightning)

This article describes an experience in Scottsdale, Arizona, where observers witnessed a ball lightning phenomenon. It began as a thin, luminous beam descending from the clouds, forming a bright sphere that rolled along a power line. The sphere eventually reached a transformer, where it became comma-shaped and disappeared into the transformer, causing it to explode. The observers included Palle Tolstrup Nielsen (civil engineer), Susanne Barreth (translator), and Leo Jensen (civil engineer).

Hvornår så du ufoet? (When Did You See a UFO?)

This article, by Toke Haunstrup, discusses the SUFOI project PADUR, which aims to analyze uncertainties and types of 'mis-observations' in UFO reports. It focuses on the difficulty of determining the exact start time of an observation and how this can affect the possibility of natural explanations. The author uses the example of the 1985 'Kosmos 1625' satellite re-entry as a case study, analyzing 59 reports to determine the accuracy of reported start times. The study suggests that for this event, witnesses were generally accurate, with a general uncertainty of +/- 10 minutes.

Fyrværkeri på morgenhimlen (Fireworks in the Morning Sky)
This sub-section details the 1985 'Kosmos 1625' satellite re-entry, which was observed by many Danes as a bright light in the sky. The phenomenon split into multiple light spheres and was initially mistaken for something else. SUFOI received 67 reports, making it one of the best-documented mass observations in recent years. The article includes a table and graph showing the distribution of reported start times for this event.

Skandinaviske observationer (Scandinavian Observations)
Reports from Sweden and Norway are mentioned, describing similar fiery, cigar-shaped objects. A report from Lolland, Denmark, is also included.

Ingen radio registrering (No Radio Registration)
This section notes that the meteor event was not directly registered by radio by the Meteorsektion, although two signals were recorded that might be related.

Efterlysning i TV-Avisen (Request in the TV News)
Geologisk Museum in Copenhagen was interested in the meteor observation, and Dr. Asger Ken Pedersen appeared on TV to request further information and any potential meteorite finds. He discussed previous Danish meteorite falls.

Stenen fra det ydre rum (The Stone from Outer Space)

This article details the widespread observation of a meteor on the evening of December 12, 1992, in Denmark. The event was widely reported, and the SUFOI Alarmcentral issued a press release explaining it as a meteor. The article mentions that the first observations were made around 21:51. It includes specific witness accounts, such as Niels Lindell from Gerå, who described the fireball splitting into seven light spheres and falling near Gerå. Lindell also reported finding black smudges on his car, which were difficult to remove.

Bilen blev ramt af noget sort (The Car Was Hit by Something Black)
This sub-section elaborates on Niels Lindell's account, describing the black smudges found on his car after the meteor event.

Ufologi

This section contains articles related to ufology.

Hvornår så du ufoet? (When Did You See a UFO?)

This article, by Toke Haunstrup, is a continuation of the discussion on the SUFOI project PADUR. It analyzes the uncertainties in witness reports regarding the start time of observations. The author concludes that for the 1985 mass observation of the 'Kosmos 1625' satellite re-entry, witnesses were generally accurate, with an uncertainty of +/- 10 minutes. The article compares this to other observations, noting that the 1985 case had a shorter time lag between observation and reporting, and a higher percentage of 'non-round' start times, possibly due to the early morning timing of the event.

Konklusion (Conclusion)
The conclusion states that the uncertainty in witness time reports is generally greater than +/- 10 minutes and depends on whether the observer can relate the event to a known time.

ARK SOUNDWAVES PRESENTS MESSENGERS OF DESTINY

This is an advertisement for a video titled 'Messengers of Destiny,' which features UFO activity in Mexico, including a sighting during a solar eclipse and investigations into UFO sightings near Mount Popocatepetl.

UNDENIABLE EVIDENCE

This is an advertisement for a documentary video titled 'Undeniable Evidence,' focusing on the crop circle phenomenon, featuring interviews with researcher Colin Andrews and insights into plant structure changes and sounds produced in crop formations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the critical examination of UFO evidence, the challenges of establishing objective truth, the analysis of witness testimonies, and the reporting of specific UFO and meteor sightings. SUFOI's editorial stance, as expressed in the 'Hvad er sandhed?' piece, is one of cautious skepticism, emphasizing the need for verifiable evidence and accepted methodologies, while acknowledging the limitations of current scientific understanding and the subjective nature of human perception. The magazine aims to document and analyze UFO phenomena without necessarily endorsing all claims, encouraging critical thinking among its readers.

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 2/93
Publication Date: 1993
Publisher: SUFOI (The Danish UFO Organization)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of UFO-NYT delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, meteorite events, and the ongoing debates within the ufology community. It features detailed reports, personal accounts, and critical analyses, reflecting a commitment to exploring unexplained aerial phenomena.

Article: Observationer (Observations)

This section focuses on a significant event: a meteorite fall observed over Denmark on December 12, 1992. The article details eyewitness accounts, including a fisherman in the North Sea and observers in Vendsyssel. The phenomenon was described as a large bolide entering the atmosphere at a low angle, exploding into multiple fragments, each with a fireball and a long tail. Some fragments were estimated to be around 30-70 km high, and some produced sonic booms as they broke the sound barrier. The event is analyzed by Asger Ken Pedersen, who suggests it was likely an ordinary stony meteorite, though its fragmentation indicates it was not a fragile chondrite but possibly a more robust iron meteorite. The article also touches upon initial investigations into potential meteorite fragments, including a sample from Lolland which was determined to be iron smelting slag, not a meteorite.

Article: Korncirklerne spøger igen (Crop Circles Haunt Again)

This reader's letter, written by Ole Rohr Sørensen, responds to a previous theory about crop circles. Sørensen argues that spray marks from tractors, applied during sowing, are the origin of many crop circle patterns, not recent tractor activity. He dismisses the idea of electrical discharges from fertilizer as a cause, suggesting that if that were the case, more crop circles would appear in Denmark. He also touches upon the legal restrictions regarding digging for archaeological finds and expresses skepticism about theories linking crop circles to ancient stone structures.

Article: Ufologer må også under lup (Ufologists Must Also Be Scrutinized)

Authored by Per Borgaard, this article critically examines the role and practices of ufologists and organizations like SUFOI. Borgaard questions the financial dealings of SUFOI, referencing a past theory about CIA funding. He discusses the concept of 'infiltration' within UFO organizations, suggesting that some individuals may have ulterior motives, such as proselytizing. Borgaard also critiques the tendency for some ufologists to link UFO phenomena with religious or New Age beliefs, arguing that while this is a valid area of study for sociologists and theologians, ufologists should not feel 'misused' by such analysis. He advocates for a balanced approach, embracing curiosity while maintaining a healthy skepticism.

Article: CSICOP afslører - sig selv (CSICOP Reveals Itself)

This piece criticizes the American skeptical organization CSICOP (Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal). The author alleges that CSICOP's training for skeptics focuses more on how to convince others that they are wrong, rather than on scientific investigation methods. It suggests that CSICOP's approach devalues personal testimony and emphasizes psychological explanations for beliefs.

Article: Advokaterne i virkeligheden (Lawyers in Reality)

This short report details a lawsuit filed by Uri Geller against CSICOP, alleging defamation. A judge in Washington ruled that CSICOP could not be held liable for statements made by James Randi, though Randi's case continues. The article notes the high cost of the lawsuit.

Article: Nyheder fra SUFOIS disketteservice (News from SUFOI's Diskette Service)

This announcement promotes SUFOI's diskette service, offering access to UFO-Nyt articles, astronomy programs, and other exclusive content for subscribers. It highlights a new program for managing the texts and the future development of a comprehensive UFO information system.

Article: Møde i forårssolen (Meeting in the Spring Sun)

This report covers a SUFOI representative meeting held in Silkeborg. Key points include the results of a survey on new members' interests, a plan to increase the number of recent sample issues, and a desire for more Danish observation material. Toke Haunstrup presented on the PADUR project, analyzing a 1985 mass observation. Ole Henningsen gave a presentation on meteors, detailing their history and characteristics, including average speeds. The meeting also included a video session reviewing SUFOI's media appearances. The report notes an increase in membership and mentions the election of new representatives to the board, with Flemming Rasmussen being made an honorary member.

Article: Ufo-legat til Torben Birkeholm (UFO Grant to Torben Birkeholm)

This article announces that Torben Birkeholm has been awarded the 1993 UFO-Fondet af 1979 grant for his significant contributions to UFO research in Denmark over 16 years. His activities include organizing UFO events, courses, and exhibitions. The grant's justification highlights his role in improving the quality of UFO report analysis.

Article: UFO-styrt (UFO Crash)

This multi-part article investigates a reported UFO crash on Long Island, New York, in 1989. It presents accounts from the Long Island UFO Network (LIUFON), which claims a UFO was forced down by the US military and recovered. The article includes testimonies from witnesses who observed strange lights and objects, including a boomerang-shaped craft and triangular objects. One account describes a scientist, 'Dr. Nick,' who allegedly participated in the 'capture' of a UFO using a Doppler Radar System developed for 'star wars' projects. The article details the timeline of events, including sightings and military activity around Moriches Bay. It also mentions that the recovered UFO material was described as very strong and light, and that a reactor and advanced electronics were removed.

Book Reviews and Listings

This section includes reviews and listings of UFO-related books, such as "UFO-Vision" (an annual publication), "UFOer over Polen" by Bronislaw Rzepecki, and "På sporet af ufonauten" by Åge Skjelborg. It also lists prices and ordering information for these publications.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the detailed investigation of specific UFO and meteorite events, the critical examination of skepticism and the practices of skeptical organizations, and the internal affairs and activities of SUFOI. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into UFO phenomena, coupled with a call for scientific rigor and a critical approach to claims, while also acknowledging the value of curiosity and the study of ufology itself.

This issue of UFO-NYT, dated 2/93, is a Danish publication focusing on UFO phenomena and related topics. It features several book reviews, news items, and discussions on various aspects of the unexplained.

Book Reviews

'Nøglen til Jordens fortid' (The Key to Earth's Past)

This section reviews a book by dr. scient. Vagn F. Buchwald, a Danish scientist with over 30 years of research into meteorites. The book is described as the most comprehensive Danish work on the subject. Buchwald's fascination with meteorites, the oldest material known, is highlighted. The review notes that meteorites are rare, with only four known in Denmark, all housed at the Geologisk Museum in Copenhagen. The museum also displays the 20-ton iron meteorite Agpalilik, found by Buchwald in North Greenland in 1963 and transported to Copenhagen. The book covers the history of meteorite research, the physics of meteorite falls, the extinction of dinosaurs, the Tunguska catastrophe of 1908, and the development of the solar system. It also recounts the French Academy of Sciences' eventual acceptance of meteorite falls in the late 18th century and Buchwald's own expedition to Mexico to find fragments of the Toluca meteorite. The review emphasizes the book's focus on Nordic meteorites and Greenland finds, with Buchwald believing more meteorites are yet to be discovered in Greenland. His significant contributions to the field are recognized by the naming of a new mineral and an asteroid after him. The book is praised for its numerous illustrations, tables, and color photographs.

'Mysteriet om Havuhyrerne' (The Mystery of Sea Monsters)

This review discusses a book by cand. scient. Lars Thomas, aimed at young readers aged 12-15. The book explores historical accounts of sea monsters, suggesting natural explanations for many of the legends, including mermaids. It also notes that reports of sea monsters continue in the present day, citing a sighting of a 750 kg giant shark by a US oceanographic vessel in 1976. Thomas, described as a cryptozoologist, encourages readers to document any unusual marine life they encounter and report it to museums or himself. The review commends the book's engaging presentation, illustrated with historical drawings and images, and its exploration of animals considered extinct or mythical.

News Items and Short Notes

UFO Sightings at the UN

This section reports on past and recent efforts to bring UFOs to the UN's agenda. It mentions U Thant's interest in 1967 and a 1978 meeting involving Kurt Waldheim, J. Allen Hynek, and Gordon Cooper, which resulted in a recommendation for the General Assembly to address the topic. A more recent meeting in late 1992 included discussions on UFOs and crop circles, with Colin Andrews, Stanton Friedman, John Schuessler, and Walt Andrus present. This meeting aimed to revive the 1978 recommendation (G33/426) for the UN to establish an organ or department to coordinate research into UFO phenomena and related matters.

EF-Committee Considers UFOs

In February 1993, a European Parliament committee debated the topic of 'visits from extraterrestrial civilizations'. The idea of establishing a European UFO observation center was raised, with the committee ultimately recommending a new report on unexplained aerial overflights.

New UFO Group in Argentina

A new UFO research group called 'Center of Investigation and Study of the Phenomena UFO' (CIELO) has been established in Argentina. The group's objective is to analyze UFO phenomena from a scientific viewpoint, avoiding biases from belief, esotericism, or religion. Their findings will be published in the journal 'El Cosmos y sus Enigmas'.

Asimov on a Stamp?

There are calls in the USA to issue a postage stamp commemorating the influential scientist and author Isaac Asimov, who passed away in 1992. However, US regulations generally require a 10-year waiting period after death for individuals to be featured on stamps, meaning Asimov could potentially be honored in 2002.

'Saucer People Trading Cards'

A product announcement for a set of 36 full-color trading cards depicting UFO sightings from the 1940s to modern times, featuring artwork by various artists. The cards are available from Kitchen Sink Press, Inc.

Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI)

This section provides the official address and contact information for SUFOI, a Danish organization dedicated to understanding UFO phenomena through the collection and dissemination of material. It outlines SUFOI's mission, its definition of a UFO phenomenon, and its leadership structure, listing contact details for various committee members.

George Bush and 'Rumfolkene' (Space People)

This short article discusses a tabloid story from 'Weekly World News' claiming that George Bush had a meeting with aliens at Camp David. Bush's humorous reaction to the story is quoted, expressing mock surprise that the aliens met him and Ross Perot.

'Enøjet rummand' (One-Eyed Space Man)

A brief mention of a story from the Norwegian magazine 'Det Ukjente' about a couple whose 6-year-old daughter was miraculously healed by a one-eyed alien in their kitchen. The article notes that while the story appeared in Swedish newspapers, it was not widely noted by Swedish ufologists.

'Bræk nakken på en ufonaut' (Break the Neck of a UFO Pilot)

This account details a strange encounter reported by Don Worley, involving a woman named Patsy Wingate. Wingate reportedly encountered three small, grey aliens in her bedroom. In an attempt to scare them, she grabbed one by the neck, causing it to break. The other aliens then carried their deceased companion away.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of UFO-NYT include the scientific investigation of unexplained phenomena, particularly meteorites and cryptozoology, as well as UFO sightings and research. The magazine appears to maintain a critical yet open-minded stance, presenting information from various sources, including scientific publications, news reports, and anecdotal accounts, while also encouraging a scientific approach to the subject. The inclusion of book reviews and news from international UFO organizations suggests an effort to provide a broad overview of the field. The editorial stance seems to favor rigorous research and documentation, as evidenced by the emphasis on scientific methodology in the reviews and the UN agenda item.