UFO Nyt - No 4 2000

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO Nyt
Issue: Nr. 4
Volume: 42. årg.
Date: 4th Quarter 2000
Publisher: Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

Content Summary

This issue of UFO Nyt, dated the 4th quarter of 2000, focuses heavily on crop circles and Russian UFO research, alongside a discussion with cosmonauts.

Crop Circles in Denmark 2000

The cover story, "Danske korncirkler 2000" (Danish Crop Circles 2000), highlights that the year's harvest saw one of the largest occurrences of crop circles in Denmark, attracting significant media attention. The issue features an article by Ole Henningsen, with photos by Mikael Jensen, detailing crop circle phenomena in Onsted, Jutland. The article notes that despite media speculation linking crop circles to UFOs, no serious investigations in Denmark in 2000 have found a connection. The piece emphasizes that extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence.

Several specific crop circle incidents are detailed:

• Lyshøj, Esbjerg: Reported on July 14th, a crop circle over 100 meters in diameter with a spiral pattern was discovered. A tourist suggested it was made by a UFO, but the article notes that similar circles in Lolland were found to be man-made.
• Stenlille, Zealand: On July 17th, a crop circle over 100 meters in diameter was reported in a wheat field belonging to Leif Rasmussen.
• Onsted, Jutland: On July 23rd, four crop circles of varying sizes (15m, 30m, 40m, and 80m) were found. Mikael Jensen photographed the phenomenon from a plane, and TV2-Østjylland also covered it.
• Borum, Jutland: This 86-meter crop circle was considered the year's highlight. It appeared between August 3rd and 4th in a wheat field owned by Heidi and Lars Laursen. Media interest was intense, with reports from DMI, TV2-Østjylland, and a detailed article in JyllandsPosten by Poul Blak.
• Vindinge, Zealand: On August 30th, Filip Steenholdt and the author created a 24-meter diameter crop circle with the DRTV logo for a news segment. This was filmed from the air the following day.
• Greve, Zealand: Karlotto Lundholm described a crop circle here as "the most sloppy crop circle" he had seen, concluding it was man-made.
• Ryslinge, Fyn: Several crop circles were reported near Ryslinge, with owners stating they had no explanation but didn't find it particularly noteworthy.
• Skibhus, Odense: A 25-meter crop circle was observed, and Jonah Ohayv suggested it was genuine, citing the lack of a path leading to it. However, planetarium director Ole J. Knudsen countered this in a subsequent commentary.

The article "Korn-graffiti" (Corn Graffiti) by Ole Henningsen, accompanied by photos, discusses the media frenzy and public reaction to these formations, including the idea of 'corn circle makers' and the possibility of them being messages from the future or past.

Russian Secrets Revealed

This section, "Russiske hemmeligheder afsløret" (Russian Secrets Revealed), presents findings from Soviet UFO investigations. Researchers Dr. Yuliy Platov and Colonel Boris Sokolov state that claims of "secret KGB archives" and "captured aliens" are untrue. Their research program (1978-1990) was classified, and while some events were unexplainable, they did not find evidence of extraterrestrial contact. They refer to "paranormal phenomena" rather than UFOs. The article notes that most mass UFO sightings at night were identified as effects related to rocket launches from the Plesetsk base. About 10-12% of reports involved meteorological or scientific balloons mistaken for unidentified objects. The article also touches upon the "Petrozavodsk UFO" incident and the possibility of military applications of UFO-like technology.

It is mentioned that in January 1980, the Soviet Ministry of Defense issued a directive for all military forces to report "all unexplainable, foreign, strange phenomena," effectively creating a vast UFO monitoring network. Over ten years, Platov and Sokolov's groups collected and analyzed around 3,000 detailed reports concerning 400 separate incidents.

A near-catastrophic incident on October 5, 1982, at a missile base near Khmelitskiy, Ukraine, is described, where a UFO reportedly caused control panels to switch to a launch-ready state. The article contrasts different versions of this event, including one reported by ABC.

The Russian researchers also noted a lack of reports on alien abductions within their project, suggesting that either aliens did not visit Soviet territory or the hypothesis of their non-terrestrial origin is illogical.

Cosmonauts and UFOs

An interview with cosmonauts Alexander Volkov and Alexander Martynov, who visited Denmark in September 2000, discusses their experiences in space. Volkov, a veteran of three space missions, including to the MIR space station, stated that astronauts observe light phenomena, likely meteors, and space debris. He recounted an incident where a bright object overtook the MIR space station, which was later identified as a discarded container of waste.

Martynov, who worked in Mission Control, confirmed that the object was reported from MIR, leading to a temporary course correction for safety. However, once identified, the maneuver was canceled. Volkov expressed a personal dream of meeting UFOs and visiting their planets but stated there is no concrete evidence for their existence.

Other Sections

• Indhold (Contents): Lists the articles in the issue, including "Danske korncirkler 2000," "Russiske hemmeligheder afsløret," "Kosmonauter og ufoer," and "Saturns ringmagere."
• SUFOI Information: Provides contact details for SUFOI, its purpose, leadership, and editorial information, including deadlines for submissions and subscription details.
• Ufologi (Ufology): A section that invites readers to submit photos and stories of unusual aerial phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained aerial phenomena, with a focus on empirical investigation and critical analysis. While acknowledging the public's fascination with UFOs and related topics like crop circles, the editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards sensational claims, particularly those involving aliens or government conspiracies. The articles emphasize the need for evidence and often present explanations that attribute phenomena to known natural or man-made causes. The inclusion of research from various countries, including Denmark and Russia, suggests a broad approach to ufology. The magazine also highlights the role of media in shaping public perception of these events.

This issue of UFO-NYT, dated 4/00, features a prominent 'Interview' on its cover, focusing on space exploration and potential extraterrestrial life. The magazine delves into discussions with cosmonauts and researchers, alongside articles on ancient astronomy and various unexplained phenomena.

Interviews

Cosmonauts Volkov and Martynov on Mars and Extraterrestrial Life

Cosmonaut Alexander Volkov discusses the prospect of a manned mission to Mars in 2019, expressing his hope to lead it. He mentions that the mission would involve four astronauts (two Russian and two American) and a key objective would be deep drilling into the Martian surface to search for signs of life. When asked about his age (he would be 71 in 2019), Volkov humorously refers to astronaut John Glenn. He also notes that space radiation is high on Mars, but as he has sons, it's acceptable for him to be sent. Volkov anticipates becoming a millionaire after the Mars trip, possibly through lectures. Regarding intelligent life in the universe, cosmonaut Alexander Martynov states, 'Of course, there is intelligent life elsewhere in the universe.' He believes life is created in space and humanity needs more time to develop instruments to explore this mystery. He suggests that understanding the origin of life could help in contacting other civilizations.

Dr. Norman Bergrun on 'The Ringmakers of Saturn'

Don Ecker interviews Dr. Norman Bergrun, author of 'The Ringmakers of Saturn,' about his claims that giant, artificial spacecraft have invaded our solar system. Bergrun's book, published in 1986, posits that observed activities near Saturn were intelligently controlled. Ecker recounts difficulties in obtaining the book and mentions receiving a photo from Dr. Marina Popovich, former Soviet cosmonaut, showing a massive, abnormal object near the Phobos 2 probe. Bergrun describes his background working for McDonnell Douglas and his research on missile systems, including the V-2 rocket. He explains that the scientific community is largely silent on UFO-related topics due to fear of damaging their careers, a phenomenon he calls 'academic fascism.' Bergrun details his own observation in 1971 of a cylindrical object with azure flames and light green/yellow streamers, which he identified as a spacecraft. He was motivated to investigate further after studying photos from the Voyager 1 and 2 missions, which showed structures in Saturn's rings that contradicted official NASA statements about the rings being empty. Bergrun believes these structures are artificial and part of what he calls 'The Ringmakers of Saturn.' He discusses the challenges of getting his findings published and how his book was eventually published in Britain. He also mentions working on a book about the Moon, suggesting it might also be an operational base.

Other UFO and Phenomenon Reports

• Mike Mullane on Alien Visitation: Astronaut Mike Mullane, interviewed on Danish TV, expressed his belief in intelligent life elsewhere in the universe, but suggested it would likely be very different from how it's depicted in science fiction. He does not believe aliens have visited Earth, stating that if they did, they would make their presence known openly.

• Mysteries in San Luis Valley: The article notes a resurgence of strange events in San Luis Valley, Colorado, including a bright light observed by two waitresses and the discovery of mutilated cattle.

• Possible Meteorite Impact on the Moon: A German amateur astronomer captured a photo of the Moon that appears to show a dust cloud, possibly from a meteorite impact. Experts are divided, with some suggesting optical illusions or gas emissions as alternative explanations.

• Desert Overflight: A pilot named David Hastings reported a black object flying directly towards his aircraft over the Mojave Desert, causing the cockpit to go dark. He managed to take two photos of what appeared to be a disk- or cigar-shaped object.

• Lightning Strike Incident: In Haderslev, Denmark, a lightning strike caused a ball of light to emerge from a lamp and ignite a dining table, though the house's safety systems did not trigger.

Ancient Egyptian Astronomy

New Discovery in Egyptian Star Map

Researcher Ove von Spaeth has analyzed an approximately 3,500-year-old star map in Senmut's tomb in Luxor, Egypt. He argues that the map accurately depicts planetary positions, not mythological arrangements, and represents a rare planetary conjunction from May 1534 BC. This discovery, supported by computer analysis and evidence of a solar eclipse, is expected to spark debate about the chronology of ancient Egypt. Von Spaeth's findings were published in the journal 'Centaurus' and involved collaboration with other experts, including Dr. Kr. Peder Moesgaard and Dr. Erik Iversen. His research is also detailed in his book, 'Gåden om Faraos Datters Søn'.

SUFOI News

New Leadership and Events

The magazine reports on a meeting of SUFOI's (Scandinavian UFO Information) representative council, where Verner Møller stepped down and was honored as an honorary member, with Flemming Poulsen taking over his duties. The organization is planning a meeting on March 31, 2001, in Copenhagen to discuss its future direction.

Mystikkens Univers Exhibition

SUFOI participated in 'Mystikkens Univers,' an exhibition featuring various alternative and mystical topics. SUFOI had a stand providing free information on UFOs, which was well-received by attendees who appreciated the opportunity for discussion without high costs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of space, the search for extraterrestrial life, and the investigation of unexplained phenomena, including UFO sightings and ancient mysteries. The magazine appears to adopt an open-minded stance towards these topics, presenting interviews and reports that challenge conventional scientific explanations and encourage further investigation. The editorial stance is one of curiosity and a desire to uncover hidden truths, whether in the cosmos or in ancient history.

Title: UFO-Nyt
Issue: 4/00
Date: December 2000

This issue of UFO-Nyt features a review of the book "Bedst af alle verdener" and an extensive article on the International Space Station (ISS).

Review: "Bedst af alle verdener"

The lead article reviews the book "Bedst af alle verdener - myter i det 21. århundrede" (Best of All Worlds - Myths in the 21st Century). The book, edited by Dan Frederiksen and Lars Peter Jepsen, features contributions from 11 authors who analyze various alternative phenomena. The review highlights that practitioners of alternative approaches often prefer supernatural or fantastic explanations over empirical ones.

• Specific topics covered in the book include:
• Michael Ahlstrand discusses how a spectator attributed supernatural abilities to a magician.
• Rud Kjems writes about Stonehenge and the speculative theories surrounding it.
• Mogens Winther covers astrology, a significant part of alternative practices in Denmark.
• Ole Hartling examines homeopathy, noting its use of scientific-sounding language and technology, which paradoxically aligns it with the scientific world it seeks to differentiate itself from.
• Leif Hagerup discusses acupuncture and zone therapy, considering the latter a derivative of acupuncture.
• Ib Lundgaard Rasmussen explores energies within alternative medicine, comparing them with current physics knowledge.
• Dan Frederiksen addresses the attacks on Darwin by American fundamentalists and the defense of Darwin by 72 Nobel laureates.
• Anders Nielsen discusses the apocalyptic beliefs of leading American circles, referencing the Waco tragedy.
• Per Borgaard analyzes the media's role in disseminating alternative ideas, noting that sensational stories are easy to report, especially when conflicting sources are mentioned.
• Mikael Rothstein views the supernatural as an integral part of social reality, focusing on phenomena like UFO abductions.
• Thor A. Bak concludes the book by discussing the relationship between science and the alternative, arguing that Western culture is superior in understanding how the world actually works.

The book aims to explore the boundaries between the established and the alternative, distinguishing between quality and non-quality. It is written for a general audience, not just experts.

Feature: The International Space Station (ISS)

The magazine also features an article titled "Så er rumstationen bemandet" (The Space Station is Now Manned), detailing the progress of the International Space Station (ISS).

• Key points from the article include:
• The first three astronauts have arrived at the ISS.
• The ISS is being constructed 380 km above Earth in a collaboration involving 16 countries, including Denmark, Sweden, and Norway.
• The ISS represents a step towards a permanent human presence in space.
• Construction began on November 20, 1998, with the Russian module "Zarya."
• Several components were added in 1998, 2000, and 2000.
• By November 2000, the station was intended to be inhabited by a crew of two Russians and one American, with rotations every four months.
• Over the next five years, American space shuttles and Russian Proton rockets will deliver new components every 1-2 months.
• The final completion is expected around 2006, requiring approximately 50 transport flights, with European components on about 20 of these.
• The participating countries have agreed to operate and utilize the station for at least 10 years after completion.
• The microgravity environment of the ISS offers unique opportunities to study the effects of gravity on the human body.
• Research on the ISS is planned for life-threatening diseases (like HIV/AIDS), new communication materials, and understanding the atmosphere and climate change.
• Four Danish companies are involved through the European Space Agency (ESA): DAMEC Research A/S, Innovision A/S, Rovsing A/S, and Terma Elektronik AS.
• The first crew consisted of Russian cosmonauts Sergei Krikaljov and Jurij Gidzenko, and American astronaut Bill Shepherd, who were launched from Baikonur, Kazakhstan.

Additional Information on ISS

• The magazine provides further details about the ISS:
• Viewings: The ISS can be seen with the naked eye. Its position can be tracked on www.dansk.discoveryeurope.com.
• Orbit: The average orbit is between 350 and 460 km above Earth, with an inclination of 51.6 degrees to the equator.
• Visibility: Upon completion, the ISS will be the third brightest object in the night sky, after the Moon and Venus.
• Speed: The station travels at over 27,000 km/hour, completing an orbit in about 90 minutes. Astronauts experience 16 sunrises and sunsets daily.
• Size: The completed station will be four times larger than the Russian Mir station, with nearly 100 square meters of solar panels.
• Personnel: Over 100,000 people are involved in its construction, with a total budget of 35-37 billion US dollars.
• Emergency Return: A Crew Return Vehicle (CRV) can bring an astronaut back to Earth in just 20 minutes if needed.

Media and Resources

• Discovery Channel: Two documentaries, "The Space Game" and "Inside the Spacestation," are scheduled for December 10th.
• Website: www.dansk.discoveryeurope.com offers information, interviews, and chats with astronauts and researchers.
• Catalog: SUFOI offers a 24-page catalog titled "Oplev det ukendte. Katalog 2000" (Experience the Unknown. Catalog 2000) with various UFO-related materials.
• Back Issues: Old UFO-Nyt issues from 1959-1975 are available for purchase.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO-Nyt demonstrates a dual focus: critically examining alternative beliefs and phenomena through book reviews and providing factual information on scientific endeavors like space exploration. The editorial stance appears to be one of informed skepticism, encouraging readers to explore the unknown while maintaining a critical perspective, as evidenced by the review of "Bedst af alle verdener" and the detailed coverage of the ISS project. The magazine also actively promotes its own publications and resources, such as back issues and catalogs.