UFO Nyt - No 1 2000

Magazine Overview

Title: ufo-nyt
Issue: Nr. 1
Volume: 42.årg.
Date: 1.kvartal 2000 (January 1, 2000)
Publisher: SUFOI (Skandinavisk UFO Information)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of *ufo-nyt* focuses on several intriguing phenomena, including the Tunguska event, the mysterious 'angel hair' substance, and a re-examination of the controversial 'Silkeborg spaceships' photographs.

Contents

The Tunguska Enigma Solved - Yet Still a Mystery

This article delves into the Tunguska event of June 30, 1908, where a massive explosion in Siberia flattened trees over an area the size of Fyn. New scientific research, led by geophysicist Kaare Lund Rasmussen from the National Museum's Radiocarbon Dating Laboratory, suggests the event was caused by a giant ice block, possibly composed of 99.9% frozen water and methane, exploding at an altitude of 8 kilometers. The explosion's force was estimated to be equivalent to 650 Hiroshima atomic bombs. Despite numerous expeditions, no meteorite material or crater has ever been found. The article highlights the unusual phenomenon of extremely bright nights observed in Scandinavia following the event. It also discusses the contributions of a Danish amateur astronomy expedition to the area in 1994, coordinated by Hans Jørn Fogh Olsen, which collected peat samples from the 1908 layer. Analysis of these samples showed low iridium content, arguing against a meteorite impact, but also a significant drop in Carbon-14, suggesting the influx of a large amount of carbon from outer space. Kaare Lund Rasmussen concludes that while the exact nature of the object remains a mystery, it was likely a massive ice block.

Angel Hair in Italy

The phenomenon of 'angel hair' is explored, a white, thread-like substance that has been sporadically reported alongside UFO sightings. On November 8, 1999, large quantities of this substance fell near Vercelli, Italy, covering fields and rooftops. Witnesses were dismissed by authorities, who suggested it was tree residue. However, one witness filmed the event and collected samples, which were sent to CISU (Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici) in Turin for analysis. CISU is collaborating with researchers at the University of Turin to determine if the substance is spiderwebs, an industrial byproduct, or something else. The article notes that similar incidents have occurred in Denmark, such as in 1979 near Stauning Lufthavn, where a candyfloss-like substance was identified as 'flying summer' – spiderwebs used by certain spiders to disperse.

Silkeborg's Spaceships Still Flying

This section revisits the 'Silkeborg spaceships' photographs, taken in the autumn of 1979 by Jørgen Bach Mortensgaard. The photos show illuminated fountains at Silkeborg Langsø at night, with strange, bright markings appearing in the dark sky. These markings were initially interpreted by some as alien spacecraft. The article presents the analysis of ufologist Colman S. VonKeviczky, who claimed the objects were flying spacecraft with a diameter of approximately 30 meters, located about 800 meters from the photographer. However, the author of the article strongly refutes this interpretation, arguing that the markings are simply reflections of the fountain lights within the camera lens. The article discusses how these photos were published in various UFO publications, including OMNI magazine in the US, and debated by researchers like Harry Lebelson and Hansjürgen Köhler. The author asserts that when photos are taken without cropping, the reflections perfectly align with the fountain lights, thus debunking the UFO explanation.

Other Content

The magazine also includes a section on 'Contents' listing articles such as 'The Truth is Not in Cyberspace,' 'Angel Hair Fall in Italy,' and 'Fireball over Denmark.' It features information about SUFOI, its purpose, leadership, and contact details. There is also a section on 'Offers for All Readers' promoting new UFO materials like CD-ROMs and videos. The issue includes a list of SUFOI's representatives and their contact information, as well as details about upcoming SUFOI exhibitions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of *ufo-nyt* demonstrates a commitment to critically examining UFO phenomena. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained aerial phenomena and the public's fascination with them, the editorial stance leans towards rational explanations, particularly for photographic evidence. The magazine actively debunks sensational claims, as seen in the analysis of the Silkeborg photos, while still presenting detailed accounts of events like the Tunguska incident and the 'angel hair' falls. There is an emphasis on scientific investigation and a cautious approach to theories, as stated in SUFOI's purpose: 'Da fænomenerne endnu er uopklarede, ønsker SUFOI ikke at fremhæve eller afvise nogen bestemt teori om deres art eller oprindelse.' The magazine aims to provide a balanced perspective, encouraging critical thinking among its readers.

This issue of UFO-Nyt, dated 1/00, features a variety of articles on UFO phenomena, astronomical events, and scientific investigations. The cover story, "Luftslag over Finland" (Air Battle over Finland), details a reported encounter between a Finnish fighter jet and UFOs. Other prominent articles include "Is fra himlen" (Ice from the Sky) discussing mysterious ice falls in Spain, "Ildkugle over Danmark" (Fireball over Denmark) about a widespread sighting of a luminous aerial phenomenon, and "Gang i søgningen efter ikke-jordiske bakterier" (Progress in the Search for Non-Terrestrial Bacteria) on the emerging field of astrobiology.

Luftslag over Finland (Air Battle over Finland)

The lead article describes an incident on March 31, 1998, where a Finnish F-18A Hornet pilot reportedly engaged in a dogfight with five UFOs over Finland. The pilot, who had been on a routine patrol, observed disk-shaped, glowing orange objects that rapidly changed course. He attempted to make contact, but the objects did not respond. When he pursued them, his aircraft's targeting computer, heads-up display, and 20 mm cannon control system failed. He also attempted to fire air-to-air missiles, but a malfunction light blinked. The pilot believed the UFOs were responsible for the system failures and feared losing control of his aircraft. The objects then disappeared at high speed. However, an investigation by Finnish ufologist Matias Paatalo revealed that the pilot's story might be fabricated, as there is no record of such a pilot or an F-18A Hornet in the Finnish Air Force, and no one in Finland recalls the event.

Reflekser snyder tit (Reflections Often Deceive)

This section explains how reflections can be mistaken for UFOs, particularly in early ufology (1950s-1960s). It details a method for identifying reflections in photographs by drawing lines across the image to find the light source that caused the reflection. The article uses examples from the Jørn Bach Mortensgaard photos, suggesting that the "objects" seen might be reflections of the fountain's lights.

UFO Nærkontakt (UFO Close Encounter)

This is a brief mention of the re-release of the "UFO Encounters" double LP, originally produced in 1978 in collaboration with the Center for UFO Studies (CUFOS). The LP features testimonies from witnesses like Betty and Barney Hill, along with expert opinions.

Is fra himlen (Ice from the Sky)

This extensive article details numerous reports of ice lumps falling from the sky in Spain during January. The ice lumps varied in size, some being as large as melons and weighing several kilograms. Geologist Jesus Martinez Frias initially suspected the ice was debris from a falling comet. However, analyses by a research team from CSIC, including a microbiologist, astrophysicist, meteorologist, and geologist, found the ice to be composed of water similar to that found in lakes and rivers, ruling out a cometary origin. They also found no evidence of it being from leaky aircraft tanks. While some attributed the falls to practical jokes or frozen water from aircraft, the scientific team speculated about a peculiar freezing process in the stratosphere at altitudes of 11-50 kilometers. The article also mentions similar ice falls in China and Brazil and discusses Jenny Randles' experience with ice falling from the sky. It notes that while some cases can be attributed to aircraft, others remain unexplained. Ice falls have also been reported in Denmark, with one incident in 1979 analyzed as frozen tap water, possibly from an aircraft.

Isen smitter - pas på! (Ice is Contagious - Beware!)

This section reports on ice falls occurring in other countries, including Germany and Italy, with over 100 cases reported in Italy in a single week. The author notes that the characteristics of these ice falls resemble those of previous "UFO waves." The article highlights the mix of genuine, unexplained cases, hoaxes, and paranoid observations, along with scientific investigations and conflicting expert opinions. It also criticizes media for spreading information without proper understanding. Alternative analyses of Spanish ice falls suggest the water composition is similar to that of lakes and rivers, not stratospheric ice formation.

Ildkugle over Danmark (Fireball over Denmark)

Thousands of Danes observed a spectacular light phenomenon on the evening of December 20, 1999. Reports flooded in to SUFOI and the Tycho Brahe Planetarium. The phenomenon was described as a slow-moving, luminous fireball with a glowing tail, moving horizontally across the sky. Observers noted the absence of sound and the unusual slow speed, leading to speculation about it being a distressed aircraft, a meteor, or space debris. The Tycho Brahe Planetarium received over 1,500 reports and is attempting to determine the object's trajectory. Some witnesses estimated its altitude and speed, with one pilot suggesting it was a plane with only a white light, no navigation lights, moving at approximately 100 knots at 2,500 feet.

Ole Henningsen's personal account describes observing a yellowish, glowing object that appeared to be a plane in distress, moving slowly and silently. He initially thought it was a plane with engine trouble but noted the lack of engine noise and the absence of typical aircraft features like wings or lights. He compared it to a strong exhaust plume with sparks, moving in a slight arc. He estimated the object's duration of observation to be about 60 seconds. The trajectory was traced from Skagerak across Denmark towards Germany.

Asteroiden Philip J. Klass (Asteroid Philip J. Klass)

This short piece reports that an asteroid has been named after Philip J. Klass, an American writer known for his skeptical approach to UFO phenomena. Klass has written several books debunking UFO cases. The naming was initiated by astronomer James McGaha. The asteroid, formerly designated 1983 RMZ 7277, is now named Klass 7277 and is approximately 11.5 km in diameter.

ET eftersøges - her på Jorden (ET is Searched For - Here on Earth)

This article discusses an expedition led by Richard Hoover, a scientist from NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, to Antarctica. The expedition aims to search for extremophiles – microorganisms that can survive in extreme environments. The techniques used to locate these organisms on Earth are hoped to aid in the search for extraterrestrial life. The team includes former astronauts Jim Lovell and Owen Garriott. They are collecting ice and rock core samples for analysis. The expedition faces harsh conditions, including extreme cold and treacherous terrain.

Notitser (Notices)

Et kan ikke sammen med tv (It Cannot Be Together with TV)

Sir Arthur C. Clarke is quoted as saying that "TV programs' pathetic state proves that there are no advanced non-terrestrial civilizations within a reasonable distance from Earth." He criticizes children's programming and the general content of television, calling it "a pile of useless rubbish." However, he also acknowledges TV's role in preserving cultural diversity.

Gang i søgningen efter ikke-jordiske bakterier (Progress in the Search for Non-Terrestrial Bacteria)

British scientists are focusing their search for extraterrestrial life on finding bacteria on nearby celestial bodies, rather than "little green men." The new field of "Astrobiology" brings together experts from various scientific disciplines. They believe they will find new life forms, likely single-celled organisms similar to early Earth life. The "UK Astrobiology Forum" is involved in upcoming space missions, including a Mars probe and a project to search for Earth-like planets. They are investigating how organisms survive in extreme environments on Earth and potentially on other planets. The article mentions the challenges faced by NASA's Mars missions and the potential for the British "Beagle 2" Mars probe.

Den britiske regering frigiver UFO X-FILES (The British Government Releases UFO X-FILES)

A British newspaper reported that the UK Ministry of Defence will release secret documents on government UFO research spanning 30 years. These documents, approximately 300 cases along with data from secret military plans to prevent an "invasion of non-terrestrials," will be made public within three months. The archives may include details on famous UK UFO cases like Bentwaters and Rendlesham Forest. However, the Defence Minister Peter Kilfoyle stated he is "not convinced" that UFOs are extraterrestrial spacecraft, while former Defence Chief Lord Hill-Norton believes they represent possible ET incursions into British airspace.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of UFO-Nyt include the investigation of unexplained aerial phenomena, the scientific analysis of unusual events like ice falls, and the ongoing search for extraterrestrial life. The magazine presents a balanced approach, featuring both reports of sightings and scientific skepticism, as seen in the articles on reflections and the debunking of the Finnish pilot's story. There is a clear emphasis on scientific inquiry and the rigorous examination of evidence, even when dealing with potentially sensational topics. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, encouraging readers to submit their own observations while also providing critical analysis and explanations for phenomena.

This issue of UFO-NYT, dated 1/00 (published in January 2000), is a Danish magazine focusing on UFO phenomena. It covers a range of topics from specific sightings and research to cultural beliefs and media reviews.

Articles

Linseformet sky under solformørkelsen (Lenticular Cloud during the Solar Eclipse)

This article reports on a trip organized by CENAP, a German UFO research organization, to Northern France for the total solar eclipse on August 11, 1999. During the event, observers photographed a peculiar lenticular cloud. The article explains that such clouds typically form when moist air is forced upwards by terrain, causing it to cool and condense, resulting in a distinct, rounded or lens-shaped cloud.

Liv på andre planeter - siger unge briter (Life on Other Planets - Say Young Britons)

This piece discusses a survey on the beliefs and superstitions of new generations, reported by Reuters and Danish media on December 19, 1999. The survey of 1,000 young people aged 15-24 revealed that 70% believe in ghosts, and 61% believe in intelligent life on other planets. Only 39% identified as practicing Christians. A spokesperson for the Church of England commented that this is not surprising, as young people often rebel against religion but tend to return to it later in life.

Peruviansk mudderbad får healende kraft fra ufoer (Peruvian Mud Bath Gains Healing Power from UFOs)

This article details the phenomenon of black mud baths in Chilca, Peru, with exotic names like 'Twin Creator' and 'Miracle Maker.' Peruvians flock to these baths seeking benefits attributed to UFOs. The town of Chilca, with 10,000 inhabitants, reportedly has a higher-than-average number of twin births. Locals attribute this to many young women bathing in the 'Twin Creator' pool, believing it enhances fertility. Those with ailments like arthritis, gout, cataracts, and vision problems bathe in the 'Miracle Maker' pool. A sign at the Chilca mud baths states it is 'the preferred place for interplanetary vehicles and beings.' The mayor, Numa Rueda, notes that many residents claim to have seen UFOs and strange lights. Local women, Veronica and Monica Sanchez, describe these as bright lights forming circles and hovering over the pools. Their mother regularly bathed in 'Twin Creator.' Hotels cater to the influx of tourists and those seeking healing. However, Peruvian doctors, like Dr. Augusto Ascenzo, dismiss the UFO theory for the high twin birth rate, attributing it to genetic factors or chance. He suggests the mud's high sulfur content might offer temporary relief for certain skin and joint conditions.

CD-ROM nyheder (CD-ROM News)

This section reviews several CD-ROMs related to UFOs:

• The UFO Anthology Vol. 1: Described as the first in a series delving into various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, offering hundreds of photos, documents, eyewitness accounts, video clips, audio sequences, and animations. It is presented as a comprehensive study and entertainment package. The price is DKK 597.
• UFO Archive 1: This CD-ROM contains three classic, previously out-of-print books from the Center for UFO Studies (CUFOS): 'UFO Reports Involving Vehicle Interference' by Mark Rodeghier, 'Physical Traces Associated with UFO Sightings' by Ted Phillips, and '1973 - Year of the Humanoids' by David Webb. These English-language books are now accessible on CD-ROM for users with Windows 95/98 and a web browser with Acrobat Reader. The price is DKK 257.
• The UFO Files: This is a double CD-ROM set aimed at reducing internet phone costs for users searching for UFO information. It contains over 3,000 text files, photos, audio, and video clips covering topics like UFOs, Area 51, NASA, SETI, crop circles, Roswell, and MIB. The price is DKK 297.

Video nyheder (Video News)

This section reviews two UFO-themed videos:

• Aliens or Illusions?: A 45-minute video that seriously examines the UFO phenomenon, featuring eyewitness accounts (including Kenneth Arnold), discussions on regression hypnosis, interviews with abductees like Travis Walton and Mike Rogers, famous hoaxes, unusual film footage, and theories presented by researchers like Jenny Randles and J. Allen Hynek. The video is in English without Danish subtitles and costs DKK 267.
• Reasons to Believe: This 50-minute video features interviews with Linda Howe and Budd Hopkins, focusing on controversial topics like animal mutilations and abductions. Linda Howe, a TV producer, discusses her work on documentaries about animal mutilations, questioning if extraterrestrials are experimenting on livestock. Budd Hopkins, a sculptor and expert on alien abductions, recounts cases like the Linda Cortile incident. The video is in English without Danish subtitles and costs DKK 267.

Index

The magazine includes a comprehensive index for UFO-NYT 1999, listing articles by title, author, and page number, covering a wide array of subjects from specific sightings and research to historical perspectives and cultural phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

UFO-NYT consistently covers a broad spectrum of UFO-related topics, from scientific observations and research to anecdotal evidence and cultural interpretations. The magazine appears to present information from various sources, including research organizations, eyewitnesses, and media reports, allowing readers to form their own conclusions. There is a clear interest in documenting UFO phenomena, exploring potential explanations, and reviewing related media such as books, CD-ROMs, and videos. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, presenting diverse viewpoints and information without necessarily endorsing any single theory. The inclusion of a detailed index and reviews of new media suggests a commitment to providing comprehensive resources for UFO enthusiasts.