UFO Nyt - No 2 1999

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO-Nyt
Issue: Nr. 2
Volume: 41. årg.
Date: 1999, 2nd quarter
Publisher: SUFOI (Skandinavisk UFO Information)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
ISSN: 0049-4976

This issue of UFO-Nyt, published by the Scandinavian UFO Information (SUFOI), focuses on mysterious locations, particularly Area 51, and explores various UFO-related topics, astronomical phenomena, and reader contributions.

Editorial and Lead Articles

"En lyssky affære, folkeoplysning eller...?" (A Shady Affair, Public Information, or...?)

This editorial by Peter Nørgaard critiques the media's handling of UFO reports, specifically an incident in Denmark where a light phenomenon was sensationalized by the newspaper JydskeVestkysten and the UFO organization IGAP. The editorial argues that the media, by uncritically supporting IGAP's claims of 'tele-discs' and alien visitors, has presented a one-sided and misleading picture of the UFO issue. SUFOI's aim is to provide factual information and encourage a critically positive approach to all UFO reports, emphasizing that while the spaceship theory is one among many, all phenomena should be investigated. SUFOI's motto, "We don't believe in everything, but we believe that everything should be investigated," is highlighted.

"Area 51 - fantasiens drømmeland" (Area 51 - Dreamland of Fantasy)

This extensive article explores Area 51, a highly classified US Air Force facility in Nevada, known by various nicknames like Groom Dry Lake, Dreamland, and The Box. Officially non-existent until 1994, it has served as a secret testing ground for advanced aircraft such as the U-2, SR-71 Blackbird, F-117 Nighthawk, and B-2 Stealth bomber. The article details the history of military testing at the site, including nuclear experiments and the development of spy planes. It notes the influx of UFO enthusiasts and New Age followers to nearby towns like Rachel and Roswell, drawn by conspiracy theories and alleged UFO crash sites. The article also touches upon the intense military activity, including exercises and the development of electronic warfare capabilities.

The piece delves into the role of 'Desert Rats' (Ørkenrotter), enthusiasts who monitor the base for new aircraft. It recounts the story of Bob Lazar, who claimed in 1989 to have worked at a secret facility called S-4 within Dreamland, reverse-engineering alien propulsion systems. Lazar's claims, though widely publicized, are met with skepticism due to his disputed qualifications and the lack of corroborating evidence. The article suggests that many UFO sightings in the area might be misidentified advanced aircraft or even foreign aircraft captured and tested by the US military.

"Mystiske steder" (Mysterious Places)

This section continues the exploration of Area 51 and related sites. It mentions the 'Skunk Works' division of Lockheed Martin, responsible for developing advanced aircraft. The article highlights the evolution of aerial vehicles, from the U-2 and SR-71 to the F-117 and B-2, and discusses the development of Uninhabited Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) like the Predator and Global Hawk, noting their cost-effectiveness and capabilities.

It reiterates the secrecy surrounding Area 51 and the speculative nature of claims about underground complexes and alien-human collaboration in developing new technologies. The article concludes that while the true nature of activities at Area 51 remains unknown, it's plausible that captured foreign aircraft, rather than alien spacecraft, are among the 'most foreign' objects tested there.

"Ufoerne i Mexico" (The UFOs in Mexico)

This section features reader contributions. Flemming J. Trepkasgade from Copenhagen writes in response to an article about a Mexican UFO film, expressing skepticism about its authenticity but defending the potential interest of other video materials from the same source (Genesis III). He argues that some footage, despite commercial packaging, may contain genuine UFO observations, citing instances of objects moving significantly relative to planets and mass sightings in Mexico City.

Another reader, Mike Walden, is introduced as the leader of LTAS, a company that builds large, disc-shaped airships. Walden claims to have built a 32-meter diameter airship (MLA-32-B) that was mistaken for an alien invasion by villagers in Mexico, leading to its destruction. The article speculates whether some Mexican UFO sightings might have been Walden's creations.

Astronomical Phenomena

"Kig på himlen" (Look at the Sky)

This article by Kim Horsevad provides an astronomical guide for the period May 15 to August 15. It details the visibility of planets Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn, noting their positions and optimal viewing times. The Perseid meteor shower, expected around August 11, is highlighted, with an estimated rate of up to 60 shooting stars per hour. The article also mentions the launch of the Discovery space shuttle on May 20, carrying components for the new international space station, and notes its potential visibility from Denmark.

A separate note describes a phenomenon observed on February 23, where two bright lights in the evening sky caused a stir among the public and media. These lights were identified as Venus and Jupiter appearing very close together, with a photo taken by SUFOI's photo consultant.

SUFOI Information and Operations

Pages 2 and 3 provide detailed information about SUFOI, including its purpose, leadership, and contact details. SUFOI's purpose is to contribute to the understanding of UFO phenomena through data collection, analysis, and public dissemination via publications and lectures. The organization emphasizes a serious and critical approach to investigations. Contact information for the responsible editor, editorial staff, and various representatives is listed, along with details on how to submit articles and advertise in the magazine. Subscription information for UFO-Nyt and the SUFOI Newsletter is also provided, along with deadlines for submitting material for upcoming issues.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the persistent mystery of UFO phenomena, the role of government secrecy in places like Area 51, and the critical examination of media reporting and public perception of these events. SUFOI positions itself as a source of objective information, encouraging critical thinking and thorough investigation rather than blind belief or sensationalism. The magazine aims to balance factual reporting on astronomical events with in-depth explorations of UFO cases and related controversies, fostering an informed public discourse on the subject.

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 2/99
Date: 1999
Publisher: SUFOI

This issue of UFO-NYT, a Danish publication focused on UFO phenomena, features several articles exploring various cases and themes within ufology. The magazine aims to provide information, investigate reports, and offer explanations, often debunking sensationalized claims.

The Rødding Laser Light Incident: A Feather Becomes Five Hens

The lead article, "Når en fjer bliver til..." (When a feather becomes...), details how a laser projector used for advertising at the discotheque 'Josephine' in Rødding, Denmark, on New Year's Eve 1998, was mistaken for UFOs. The moving light patterns, described as diffuse light cones or round/oval light spots flashing and moving erratically, were observed by many and led to approximately 40 calls to SUFOI's alarm center. The media, particularly Jydske Vestkysten, amplified the story, leading to a public meeting where 'experts' from the organization IGAP presented theories about alien visitations. The article critically examines the media's role in sensationalizing the event and highlights how a simple explanation (a laser light) was overshadowed by more dramatic UFO narratives. SUFOI's initial investigation correctly identified the phenomenon as a projector light, but the media coverage continued to fuel the mystery.

IGAP's Theories and Media Complicity

The article further discusses the involvement of IGAP, an organization represented by Egon Dalsgaard and H.C. Petersen, who promoted theories of alien spacecraft, 'telemeterskiver' (remote-controlled discs), and reconnaissance vessels. Jydske Vestkysten is criticized for its lack of critical questioning, with journalist Bent Andersen uncritically relaying IGAP's claims, a practice described as 'microphone holding.' The newspaper's extensive coverage, including a public meeting, is seen as contributing to the public's fascination and the perpetuation of the 'mystery.' The author suggests that the media's preference for sensational stories over simple explanations ('The boring truth has a hard time') led to the escalation of the Rødding incident.

UFOs and Power Outages in Brazil

A brief report titled "Ufo årsag til strømsvigt?" (UFO cause of power outage?) discusses a major power failure in Brazil on March 11, 1999, which affected millions. While the official explanation cited a lightning strike, ufologist Thiago Luiz Ticchetti claimed that three strange, glowing objects were observed before the blackout, hovering near power lines. Other ufologists in Brazil are reportedly seeking further witnesses to establish a connection between the UFOs and the power outage.

Book Review: 'From Other Worlds' by Hilary Evans

"Fra guder til aliens" (From gods to aliens) reviews Hilary Evans' book 'From Other Worlds.' The book explores the phenomenon of alien abductions and the concept of 'Star People,' analyzing reports from a psychological and cultural perspective. Evans connects modern abduction accounts to ancient myths of gods and angels, suggesting that many such experiences are psychological responses to personal crises, cultural events, or media influences. The review praises the book's comprehensive approach and its extensive illustrations.

Crop Circles and Film Production

"Korncirkel i dogmefilm" (Crop circle in dogme film) describes an experiment conducted on Lolland, Denmark, in the summer of 1998, to demonstrate how easily crop circles can be created. This experiment was linked to the filming of Søren Kragh-Jacobsen's dogme film 'Mifunes sidste sang.' A landowner provided a wheat field, and with simple tools, a crop circle was created in about 1.5 hours. The article notes that the film itself features a crop circle in a central scene, adding a unique dimension to the movie and the experiment.

Debunking the Philadelphia Experiment Myth

"Gamle søfolk afliver myte" (Old sailors debunk myth) tackles the persistent myth of the Philadelphia Experiment. The article presents evidence from former crew members of the USS Eldridge and SS Andrew Furuseth, including logbooks, which contradict the story of the destroyer's alleged teleportation and invisibility in 1943. The former crew members state that the experiment never took place and that the USS Eldridge was never in Philadelphia's naval port during the specified period. The article attributes the myth's origin to Morris K. Jessup and Carlos Miguel Allende, who later admitted the story was fabricated. The author concludes that the myth is pure fantasy, supported by new information.

SUFOI Activities and Future Plans

"Aktiviteter" (Activities) section covers SUFOI's recent representative meeting, where Flemming Rasmussen was elected to the board. It also highlights the organization's focus on its website as a primary communication tool and the ongoing discussion about revising SUFOI's mission statement. The section also mentions the numerous inquiries SUFOI receives from the public, media, and students seeking information about UFOs.

Roswell UFO Incident: A Dummy Was Involved

"Roswell-ufonaut var en dukke" (Roswell UFO astronaut was a dummy) discusses Joseph Kittinger's involvement in the US Air Force's high-altitude balloon projects in the 1950s and 1960s. Kittinger, a test pilot, participated in projects like Manhigh and Excelsior. The article reveals that test dummies in pressure suits were dropped over the desert near Roswell, New Mexico, as part of these experiments. Kittinger suggests that these dropped dummies, and possibly an incident where a captain was injured and seen entering a hospital with a 'being,' likely contributed to the Roswell UFO narrative, implying that extraterrestrials would not need to visit Roswell unless disguised as dummies.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Throughout the issue, a recurring theme is the critical examination of UFO reports and media coverage. SUFOI, as the publisher, consistently advocates for rational explanations and evidence-based investigations. The magazine debunks sensationalized claims, such as the Rødding laser incident and the Philadelphia Experiment, while also exploring genuine research and experiments, like the crop circle creation. The editorial stance is one of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims and a commitment to providing factual information, often contrasting with the more speculative or sensationalist reporting found elsewhere. The magazine encourages critical thinking and highlights the importance of distinguishing between actual phenomena and misinterpretations or fabrications.

This issue of Notitser, identified as UFO-NYT 2/99, contains several short articles and reports related to UFO phenomena, astronomical events, and related topics. The magazine features a mix of news items, investigations, and reviews.

Article: Kæmpe ildkugle eksploderer over Alaska (Giant fireball explodes over Alaska)

This article reports on a significant event on January 8, 1999, where thousands of residents in Alaska witnessed a large fireball in the sky, accompanied by a loud sonic boom. The phenomenon, described as having a blue, green, and red tail, exploded around 22:25, creating a multi-colored flash. Witnesses in Palmer and Wasilla reported their houses shaking from the force of the sound. Scientists suggest the object was a large meteorite that exploded approximately 90 km above the atmosphere. The event is linked to the Quadrantids meteor shower, which typically peaks around January 3-4 and is named after the constellation Quadrans Muralis.

Article: Briterne tror ikke på regeringen i ET-spørgsmål (Britons don't trust the government on ET issues)

According to a BBC report cited in this article, a survey conducted by the science fiction magazine Focus found that 50.2% of Britons believe in extraterrestrial life. More surprisingly, 80% of those surveyed felt that the British government would not reveal such a discovery to the public. Paul Simpson, editor of Focus, is quoted stating that belief in non-terrestrial life is no longer confined to the superstitious. The article notes variations in belief across different social groups, with women, northerners, and older individuals being more skeptical than men, southerners, and younger people, respectively.

Article: Betty Cash død (Betty Cash dead)

This piece reports the death of Betty Cash, one of the three individuals who experienced adverse effects following a close encounter in Huffman, Texas, on December 29, 1980. Cash died in Birmingham, Alabama, on the 18th anniversary of the incident, after a period of illness. The event, known as the Cash-Landrum observation, involved Cash, Vickie Landrum, and her grandson Colby Landrum witnessing a large object accompanied by military helicopters in eastern Texas. The witnesses reported being exposed to radiation, leading to severe medical problems including burns, hair loss, diarrhea, and vomiting. Despite seeing numerous military helicopters, the U.S. government denied any knowledge of the event and offered no assistance. Betty Cash's business was affected by her condition, and her life was marked by hospitalizations. She developed cancer, which was treated, but later suffered a stroke in November 1998, leading to her death. The article notes her fight against government cover-ups and her role in offering hope to other UFO witnesses.

Article: Tre døgns solformørkelse - eller hvad et flot naturfænomen kan føre med sig (Three days of solar eclipse - or what a beautiful natural phenomenon can lead to)

This article, written by Ole Henningsen, critically examines theories linking the solar eclipse of August 11, 1999, to apocalyptic prophecies. It discusses an article by H.C. Petersen in the magazine 'ufo-kontakt' which, based on material from an Austrian group interested in 'free energy' and crop circles, predicts a major comet and an asteroid impact near the Caribbean. This impact, according to the theory, would cause the Earth to tilt, resulting in a three-day solar eclipse. The article also mentions a related theory about asteroid fragments hitting the Faroe Islands, potentially reactivating a volcanic region. Henningsen dismisses these theories as 'nonsense,' pointing out geological inaccuracies (e.g., the age of moler deposits) and the lack of scientific evidence for such celestial events. He contrasts this with Erich von Däniken's approach, stating that Aarsleff has personally visited the sites he writes about. The article also briefly mentions a Danish astronomer's comment about certain topics being sensitive and a past incident involving TV-2 Lorry and the Ørsted satellite.

Article: Nyt om videofilmen fra Malmö (News about the film from Malmö)

This report addresses a video filmed by an 11-year-old boy in Malmö, Sweden, on November 19, 1998, which depicted a luminous phenomenon. The incident gained significant attention in Sweden and Denmark. Clas Svahn from UFO-Sverige investigated the footage and, in UFO-Aktuelt (issue 1/99), explained the phenomenon as a condensation trail from an airplane. The object was located in the western sky and illuminated by sunlight, about 40 minutes after sunset (the observation occurred around 16:20). The video clearly shows two light trails, which are identified as condensation trails.

Article: Vurdering af SUFOI's hjemmeside (Review of SUFOI's website)

This section presents an evaluation of the SUFOI (a Danish UFO organization) website by Dorthe Chisholm, a student at the Danish Library School. The evaluation, part of her studies, is largely positive, praising the clarity and organization of the information presented in short, manageable sections. However, Chisholm also points out some critical aspects, noting that the readability of the text could be improved in certain areas. The article provides the website address: www.sufoi.dk.

Article: Rumspejl skal finde ikke-jordiske planeter (Space mirror to find non-terrestrial planets)

This article discusses scientific plans to use giant plastic mirrors in Earth orbit to amplify light from distant objects, making it possible to photograph Earth-like planets near other stars. Roger Angel, an astronomer at the University of Arizona, has developed a technique for casting very large glass mirrors and proposes that NASA send ten 10-meter plastic mirrors into orbit. These mirrors would be mounted on a frame network to focus light into a telescope located half a kilometer away. Angel presented this proposal at a meeting of the American Astronomical Society in Austin, Texas. He believes this system could work with NASA's Next Generation Space Telescope and potentially with the more advanced Terrestrial Planet Finder (TPF) instrument, which is designed to be placed in orbit near Jupiter.

Book Review: Det glemte folk (The forgotten people)

This section reviews two books by Klaus Aarsleff: 'Det glemte folk 1: Vesten og østen for Aztlan' (The forgotten people 1: West and East of Aztlan) and 'Det glemte folk 2: Andesbjergenes gåder' (The forgotten people 2: Mysteries of the Andes). The books explore the possibility of an ancient, worldwide high culture that built the mysterious temples found in Asia and America, and whether this culture is connected to myths of a great flood. Aarsleff, unlike Erich von Däniken, is described as having personally visited the ancient sites he writes about, offering a grounded perspective. The review highlights the books' engaging layout, illustrations, and detailed descriptions of ancient mysteries, weaving together travelogues and anecdotes. The books are recommended for their well-written content and extensive literature and source lists. The review also provides ordering information for the books, which are sold as a set for 360 Danish Kroner plus postage.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine 'Notitser' (UFO-NYT) consistently covers a range of topics related to UFOs, unexplained phenomena, and speculative science. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these phenomena, including witness accounts, scientific investigations (or lack thereof), and public perception. There is a critical approach to sensationalist or unsubstantiated claims, as seen in the critique of H.C. Petersen's theories. The magazine also engages with related scientific advancements, such as the search for exoplanets, and reviews relevant literature, indicating a broad interest in the intersection of the unexplained, science, and history.