UFO Nyt - No 2 1997

Magazine Overview

Title: ufo-nyt
Issue: 2
Volume: 39. årg.
Date: 1997 2. kvartal
Publisher: Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
ISSN: 0049-4976
Price: kr. 232,00

This issue of ufo-nyt, published in Denmark in the second quarter of 1997, focuses on the resurgence of media interest in UFOs, often portraying them as alien spaceships. The magazine, SUFOI, advocates for a more critical and evidence-based approach to UFO research, lamenting the media's tendency to sensationalize and interview less credible sources.

Editorial: The New Spaceship Wave

The editorial, written by Per Andersen, addresses the current media trend of focusing on UFOs as alien spaceships. Andersen notes that for the first time, SUFOI is being asked if they believe UFOs are spaceships, with media outlets preferring interviews with 'spaceship believers' over serious researchers. This trend is seen as a setback for SUFOI's efforts to promote a nuanced understanding of the UFO phenomenon. The editorial references the Heaven's Gate cult's mass suicide, linked to the Hale-Bopp comet, and criticizes the media's choice of interviewees, such as Whitley Strieber and Art Bell, over representatives from more serious organizations like MUFON and CUFOS. SUFOI plans to adopt a more assertive stance in its interactions with the press to ensure that UFO topics are treated seriously and with credible sources, even if it means being perceived as critical of believers.

Article: Comets Still Warn of Calamities

This article by Ole Henningsen explores the historical superstition that comets portend disaster. It notes that despite scientific advancements, this belief persists, fueled by recent celestial events like Comet Hale-Bopp. The article contrasts the scientific understanding of comets with the persistent folklore, citing examples from history where comets were seen as bad omens. It discusses Halley's Comet and its appearances, and then focuses on Comet Hale-Bopp, which garnered significant public attention in early 1997. The article also touches upon the internet's role in disseminating information and misinformation about the comet. It debunks a claim by Marianne Rasmussen that comets are dangerous, attributing her observations to a misunderstanding of astronomical phenomena and a belief in superstition. The piece also addresses the phenomenon of 'Saturn-shaped objects' appearing in comet photographs, explaining it as a misidentification of stars, as demonstrated by the case of Chuck Shramek and the star SAO 141894.

Article: The Great Comet of 1997

This section delves deeper into the public reaction to Comet Hale-Bopp. It highlights how the comet, visible in the spring of 1997, sparked widespread interest and speculation. The article discusses how the comet was photographed and studied, but also how it became a focal point for conspiracy theories and doomsday predictions. It mentions the tragic incident of 39 Americans who committed mass suicide, believing they were being taken to another world by a spaceship associated with the comet. The article criticizes the tendency to link such beautiful astronomical events to unfounded fears and delusions, potentially overshadowing serious scientific inquiry.

Article: Film Review - Mars Attacks!

Written by Lars Thomas, this section reviews the 1996 science fiction film 'Mars Attacks!'. Thomas describes the film as a dark and grotesque parody, detailing its plot about an alien invasion from Mars. He critiques the film's pacing and narrative, finding it to be a 'flop' despite its special effects and the performances of its cast, including Jack Nicholson. The review notes that the film was inspired by a series of trading cards from the 1960s.

Article: Danish Reports - Observations in the Last Half-Year

This article presents SUFOI's statistics on UFO sightings reported between June and December 1996. A total of 181 reports were received, a significant increase compared to the previous six-month period. The rise is attributed to the increased use of projector and laser lights, which were mistaken for UFOs in about 30% of cases, and heightened media interest in UFOs, partly due to the film 'Independence Day'. Of the 181 reports, 12 concerned events prior to June 1996. Approximately 40% of the cases could be explained as known phenomena, a decrease in the explanation rate attributed to limited resources for investigation. The article also notes a significant increase in video recordings of celestial phenomena.

Article: Danish Reports - Mysterious Light

This section details a peculiar case from August 19, 1996, where a woman in Stenløse, Denmark, reported observing a light spot on a cabinet and two lights in the sky. The lights moved upwards and disappeared, leaving a condensation trail. The woman's family cat also exhibited signs of distress. The report, investigated by SUFOI, suggests possible explanations such as a camera focus issue, an afterimage, or a 'fantasy experience' related to the boundary between waking and sleeping states. The article invites readers to submit their own theories for this unexplained phenomenon.

Article: Danish Reports - Aircraft Startles Couple

This report describes an incident on September 21, 1996, where a couple near Kokborg, Denmark, observed a large, square object with four lights moving slowly across the sky, accompanied by a humming sound. The object was described as approximately 15 meters long and 10 meters wide. The report emphasizes the importance of thorough investigation to determine natural explanations for such sightings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the intersection of astronomy and popular belief, particularly concerning comets and their historical association with omens. The magazine critically examines how media sensationalizes UFO phenomena, often promoting unsubstantiated claims over scientific investigation. SUFOI's editorial stance is clearly in favor of a serious, critical, and evidence-based approach to UFO research, aiming to counter misinformation and promote a more accurate understanding of the subject. The magazine also highlights the role of technology, such as video cameras, in UFO reporting, while cautioning against misinterpretations of common phenomena.

This issue of UFO-Nyt, dated 2/97, focuses on the upcoming SUFOI Jubilee Congress 1997 and delves into various UFO-related topics, including historical cases, current research, and societal issues like light pollution. The magazine highlights the 40th anniversary of SUFOI and its commitment to UFO research.

SUFOI Jubilee Congress 1997

The main event announced is the SUFOI Jubilee Congress 1997, scheduled for Saturday, November 1st, at Lyngby Storcenter. This congress is described as the most international one ever held by SUFOI and the last major UFO congress in Denmark for the decade. The program includes a welcome by Per Andersen (SUFOI chairman), a presentation by Clas Svahn (chairman of UFO-Sverige), and talks by Peter Nørgaard (SUFOI vice-chairman) on "UFOs over Denmark: Newer Danish observations, photos and videos." Other speakers include Torben Birkeholm on the Vejle incident, Ole Henningsen on crop circles, and Mikael Rothstein from the University of Copenhagen discussing whether UFOs can exist without being real. John Spencer of the British UFO Research Association will present on "UFOs: Facts, Mythologies, and Mythology." The afternoon features Jenny Randles on "Men in Black - Myth or Reality?" and Dr. Richard F. Haines on "Pilot UFO Sighting Reports: A Source of Significant and Reliable Data." The congress concludes with a closing by Per Andersen. A limited number of 250 tickets are available for 190 DKK, with details on how to purchase them provided.

Danish UFO Reports

The magazine features a section on "Danish reports," detailing several sightings. One account describes a large, machine-like object with constant, bright lights observed by a couple near Vejle. Initially thought to be unusual, the incident was later explained as a military exercise involving a Hercules transport plane and paratroopers, with the lights attributed to the plane's open cargo bay and navigation lights. Another report details a sighting on December 20, 1996, near Frederiksværk, where a woman observed 10 grey-white lights in a triangular formation. A similar triangular phenomenon was reported over Jyderup on the same day, described as 'gold-shimmering' with a triangular hole.

Light Pollution Conference

An article discusses a conference on light pollution held on January 15th at the Tycho Brahe Planetarium, organized by several astronomical and environmental groups, including SUFOI. While the conference was generally a disappointment for amateur astronomers, SUFOI was pleased with a promise of a ban on spotlights directed at the sky, as approximately one-third of SUFOI's alarm calls relate to light pollution. The article explores the perception of light as positive and the downsides of excessive artificial light, such as reduced visibility in darkness and the creation of 'light smog.' It highlights the lack of specific legislation against light pollution in Denmark, contrasting it with regulations for other forms of pollution like noise. The need for better guidance for installers and enforcement of existing laws is emphasized. The article also mentions that Henrik Knudth-Winterfeldt from the Forest and Nature Agency promised initiatives for legislation regarding spotlights, noting the urgent need due to their increasing use.

Project 1947 and Historical UFO Cases

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to "Project 1947," an initiative to document UFO observations from that year. The article details early reports, including one from July 1952 by a doctor who witnessed "saucer-shaped objects" near Augusta, Maine, in 1947. Another case involves a doctor and his wife in Birmingham, England, who saw a slow-moving, luminous elliptical object. The article notes that the 1947 UFO wave generated thousands of reports, many of which were collected by researchers like Ted Bloecher and Loren Gross. It also touches upon "foo fighters," unidentified aerial phenomena reported by Allied and Axis pilots during World War II, described as silver-colored discs or spheres. Reports from various theaters of war, including Germany and Japan, are mentioned, along with the challenges of censorship and documentation.

Allegations of Forged UFO Documents

An article titled "False UFO Documents Planted in Archives" raises serious concerns about the authenticity of UFO-related documents. It discusses three documents, purportedly from General George F. Schulgen, concerning "Investigation of Aircraft of the Flying Saucer Type," which were found in the U.S. National Archives. However, it is claimed that these documents have been altered from their original versions. The article points to William L. Moore as a potential perpetrator, citing his involvement in publicizing these documents and his alleged connection to the controversial MJ-12 documents, which are also suspected of being forgeries. The motive suggested is to encourage witnesses, particularly military personnel, to come forward by creating the appearance of official government acknowledgment of UFOs.

Other Notitser (Brief Reports)

Several brief reports are included:

• Roswell on Tour: A theater group called "Music Theater Wales" has created a play based on the Roswell incident, which will tour England and Wales, including panel debates with UFO researchers.
• High Flyers: A report describes strange "horns" seen protruding from clouds near Stavanger Airport, Norway. These were later identified as the top of the "Micoperi 7000" ship crane, a massive structure that can resemble UFOs when partially obscured by clouds.
• Known UFO Researcher Arrested: John Ford, leader of the "Long Island UFO Network," and another group member were arrested for allegedly planning a murder. Ford had previously claimed that government officials were trying to silence him regarding crashed UFOs on Long Island.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes UFO research and investigation, providing platforms for both historical analysis and contemporary sightings. There's a clear emphasis on critical examination, as seen in the debunking of the Vejle incident and the discussion of light pollution. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging documentation and the pursuit of evidence, while also being cautious about potential hoaxes and misinformation, as highlighted in the article on forged documents. The magazine also advocates for addressing environmental concerns like light pollution, linking it to the broader impact of human activity.

This issue of Notitser, published by SUFOI (Skandinavisk UFO Information) in February 1997 (Issue 2/97), features several articles on UFO phenomena, astronomy, and space exploration. The cover story critically examines the Roswell incident, while other articles discuss the discovery of Pluto, a Danish satellite project, and UFO-related media.

Roswell-myten skudt i sænk - igen (The Roswell Myth Shot Down - Again)

This article delves into the testimony of Glenn Dennis, a former undertaker in Roswell, who claimed to have encountered a nurse who witnessed the autopsy of alien beings after the 1947 Roswell crash. The nurse allegedly provided Dennis with drawings of these beings before disappearing and reportedly dying in a plane crash. Karl Pflock, a critic of the Roswell incident, has re-examined Dennis' account and concluded that it is fabricated or misunderstood. This view is supported by Roswell researcher Kevin Randle. The article points out that a polio epidemic was occurring among children at the Roswell base in the summer of 1947, which might explain the base's secretive calls to Dennis regarding small coffins. However, the central issue is the nurse. There were five nurses at the base, all identified, and none match Dennis' description. When pressed for details, Dennis named the nurse as Naomi Self (or Selff). Extensive searches have revealed no such nurse in the US military. Dennis later claimed 'Naomi' was her first name, but he had invented the surname 'Selff'. The article questions why Dennis would keep her name secret if he sought documentation, especially since she was reportedly deceased in the 1940s. The article concludes by mentioning that Dennis intends to release material upon his death that may shed light on these questions.

Sources cited include an open letter from Karl Pflock to Glenn Dennis (January 6, 1997), an internet post by Kevin Randle (April 3, 1997), and an internet post by Rebecca Keith.

Plutos opdager er død (The Discoverer of Pluto is Dead)

This article commemorates the passing of renowned astronomer Clyde W. Tombaugh in January 1997 at the age of 90. Tombaugh is best known for his discovery of the planet Pluto in 1930. The article details his early interest in astronomy, having built a telescope at a young age using old car parts. He sent detailed drawings of Mars and Jupiter to the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona, which was founded by Percival Lowell with the goal of searching for life on Mars and investigating 'Planet X' beyond Neptune. Tombaugh was hired by the observatory in 1929 to assist in this search, which involved taking photographic plates of the same region of the sky over time to detect moving objects like planets, asteroids, or comets. The discovery date is often debated, but correspondence with Ove von Späht suggests the key astronomical photo was taken on January 23, 1930, and compared with a photo from January 29, 1930. Tombaugh identified the planet on February 18, 1930. The article also touches upon a lesser-known UFO sighting by Tombaugh and his family in Las Cruces, New Mexico, in August 1949. They observed six-sided, yellow-green lights moving at high speed across the sky. Tombaugh reported this sighting anonymously to the FBI. The article mentions that astronomers Donald H. Menzel and Lyle G. Boyd discussed this observation in their book 'The World of Flying Saucers', suggesting a possible atmospheric reflection. Tombaugh, however, rejected this explanation in correspondence, as well as the idea of it being a natural atmospheric phenomenon. In a 1975 interview, Tombaugh stated that the phenomenon could not have been caused by anything at White Sands Missile Range where he was working at the time, and considered it an open question.

The article also notes that Tombaugh was involved in numerous astronomical projects throughout his career and was always willing to share his knowledge with amateur astronomers.

SUFOIs nye hjemmeside (SUFOI's New Homepage)

This section announces the launch of SUFOI's improved website (www.sufoi.dk). The site has been enhanced with a new server in Denmark and has already attracted over 2,500 visitors in the past year. The website serves as a resource for journalists, observers, students, and others interested in UFO information. It allows users to report UFO observations, order a trial issue of UFO-Nyt, and ask questions. The site also features overviews of recent UFO observations in Denmark, links to international UFO resources, and news updates. Future plans include a catalog of notable UFO photos and direct sales via the website. The webmaster is Lars H. Andersen.

A graph shows the number of daily website accesses over a week in March-April 1997, with daily visitor numbers ranging from 8 to 860.

Dansk satellit i rummet (Danish Satellite in Space)

This article discusses the development and upcoming launch of Denmark's first satellite, 'Ørsted', scheduled for space in the autumn. The satellite has undergone extensive testing in Munich, Germany, to withstand extreme conditions. Key instruments include magnetometers, particle detectors, and a star camera. The 'Ørsted' satellite, described as being the size of a large beer crate, is equipped with an eight-meter mast to position instruments away from potential interference. It is being launched as an extra passenger on a US Delta-II rocket with a budget of 100 million Danish kroner. The satellite is named after physicist H.C. Ørsted and is expected to orbit Earth at an altitude of 600 km for about a year before being degraded by cosmic radiation. Its scientific purpose is to enhance understanding of Earth's magnetic field and its impact on the planet's core, potentially providing clues about magnetic pole reversals. The star camera is part of the satellite's advanced guidance system, not for astronomical imaging like the Hubble telescope. This launch marks a significant achievement for Danish research, with scientists anticipating valuable data from the 60 kg satellite, which will transmit information to the Danish Meteorological Institute in Copenhagen. International research teams are also eager to analyze the results.

Meteor skaber røre i Italien (Meteor Causes Commotion in Italy)

In January, a powerful meteor, also described as a bolide or fireball, was sighted over central Italy by hundreds of people and reported on television and in newspapers. Unfortunately, it was confirmed to be a meteor. The article notes that some witnesses reported unusual effects, such as their cars stalling and mobile phones failing. There were also unconfirmed reports of the runway lights at Rome's airport dimming during the meteor's passage.

Meteor-detektor (Meteor Detector)

This brief section mentions that it is now possible to build a computer that functions as a detector for various radio phenomena in Earth's atmosphere, capable of measuring signals from large meteors, lightning, and sunspot activity. This is achieved using a kit from Logic Limited, which includes a box to connect to a PC and necessary software. The price is US$199.25 from Logic Limited in Connelly Springs, North Carolina, USA.

Ny dansk ufo-video: UFOer - tæt på et mysterium (New Danish UFO Video: UFOs - Close to a Mystery)

This advertisement promotes a new Danish UFO video produced by SUFOI in collaboration with Estrella. The 30-minute video offers a factual overview of the UFO phenomenon, featuring some of the best Danish UFO cases and international footage. Content includes new Danish video recordings of observations, a detailed look at the classic Maarup case with testimony from the witness, foreign UFO clips, information about SUFOI's work, and explanations of hoaxes and identified phenomena. The video is available for kr. 90.00 and can be ordered by sending payment plus kr. 15 for postage to SUFOI's P.O. Box.

UFO-Vision

This section announces the relaunch of SUFOI's magazine, UFO-Vision, after a hiatus. The new issue is larger and more comprehensive, offering 100 pages of content. It includes reviews of UFO books, other books on the unknown, videos, films, CD-ROMs, and periodicals. Featured articles include an analysis of UFOs and folklore by Hilary Evans, an examination of the link between UFOs and the supernatural by Keith Basterfield, and a humorous look at science fiction portrayals of alien encounters by Søren Thomas. The magazine also provides useful internet addresses for UFO research. UFO-Vision is edited by Kim Møller Hansen, is profusely illustrated, and bound in A4 format. It costs kr. 148.00 and can be ordered by sending payment plus kr. 15 for shipping to SUFOI's P.O. Box.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical yet open-minded stance towards UFO phenomena. While presenting detailed accounts of alleged sightings and incidents, it also critically examines testimonies and seeks factual explanations, as seen in the Roswell article. There is a strong emphasis on providing information and resources to the public, evident in the promotion of SUFOI's website and publications. The magazine also covers related scientific topics like astronomy and space exploration, suggesting an interest in the broader context of humanity's place in the universe. The editorial stance appears to be one of informed investigation, encouraging readers to engage with the subject matter critically and to seek out reliable information.