UFO Nyt - No 2 2003

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO-Nyt
Issue: 2
Volume: 45
Date: 2003, 2nd Quarter

This issue of UFO-Nyt, published by SUFOI (Skandinavisk UFO Information), focuses on radar sightings, the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI), and conspiracy theories, particularly surrounding the death of Princess Diana.

Radar UFOs Over the Faroes

The lead article, "Ufoer på færøsk radar" (UFOs on Faroese Radar), details an account by Senior Sergeant Georg Sylvest Pedersen. While stationed at the Faroese radar station as part of NATO's Early Warning System between 1964-1968 and again in 1990, Pedersen reported an unusual experience in 1965. During a night watch, six stationary dots appeared on his radar screen in a pattern resembling the 'six' on a die, located about 75 km south of the Faroes at an altitude of roughly 18,000 feet. These targets remained stationary for about an hour before disappearing. The phenomenon recurred for about a week. When British fighter jets were scrambled to investigate, the targets vanished as the jets approached, only to reappear when the jets turned away. Similar observations were reportedly made by radar stations in the Hebrides. Pedersen's superiors dismissed the sightings, attributing them to data errors or interference, but he maintains the experience was unusual. The article also touches upon the radar station's technical capabilities and its role in monitoring the North Atlantic during the Cold War.

Further details are provided regarding the radar station's location on Sornfelli, its meteorological functions, and the Færøernes Kommando's perspective. The press officer for the Faroese Command, Preben Skovgaard, stated that while "traces" have appeared on radar screens over the years, most have been identified as aircraft, though some were initially unacknowledged. He referred SUFOI to Georg Sylvest Pedersen for the station's history.

The article also explores related radar sightings in the UK, mentioning the work of Nick Pope, who investigated UFO reports for the British Air Staff, and Martin Shough, who maintains the RADCAT archive. A case involving a radar operator from RAF Saxa Vord in the Shetlands in 1964-65, who reported a stationary target that prompted a fighter jet scramble, is also discussed. This case, reported by Dave Ledger of UFO Scotland, is being investigated for potential links to Pedersen's Faroese sighting.

The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI)

Seth Shostak, a Senior Astronomer at the SETI Institute, contributes an article titled "Kosmisk støj kontra signaler fra ET" (Cosmic Noise vs. Signals from ET). Shostak explains the fundamental challenge in SETI: distinguishing between natural cosmic radio emissions and deliberate, artificial signals from extraterrestrial civilizations. He uses the fictional scenario from the movie "Contact" to illustrate how a signal might be perceived as intelligent. Shostak discusses historical cases where unusual radio signals were initially thought to be extraterrestrial, such as the discovery of CTA-102 (later identified as a quasar) and the discovery of pulsars (initially called LGMs or 'Little Green Men'). He emphasizes that while pulsars exhibit regular, rhythmic pulses, these are natural phenomena resulting from collapsed stars and do not carry information in a way that suggests intelligent communication. Shostak concludes that a true SETI signal would likely be very different from fictional portrayals and would need to exhibit clear characteristics of artificial origin.

Conspiracy Theories: Princess Diana's Death

Another significant section, "Dianas dødsulykke - det perfekte mord?" (Diana's Fatal Accident - The Perfect Murder?), delves into the conspiracy theories surrounding the death of Princess Diana, Dodi Al Fayed, and Henri Paul in Paris on August 30, 1997. The article outlines the official account of the car crash in the Alma tunnel, attributing it to high speed and Henri Paul's intoxication.

However, it then explores the motives and methods proposed by conspiracy theorists. The primary motive suggested is that the British establishment, particularly MI6 and the Royal family, wanted to prevent Diana's marriage to Dodi Al Fayed, a Muslim, which would have been a significant blow to the monarchy. The arms industry is also mentioned as a potential suspect due to Diana's anti-landmine campaign.

Several "methods" are discussed: the alleged use of a blinding flash-gun to disorient the driver, and the involvement of a mysterious white Fiat Uno that allegedly collided with Diana's Mercedes, causing the driver to lose control. The article highlights the disappearance of paparazzi photographer James Andanson, who was reportedly investigating the white Fiat, and his subsequent apparent suicide, as a key piece of "evidence" for theorists.

Another point of contention is Henri Paul's blood sample, which reportedly showed a high level of carbon monoxide, leading to theories that the sample was tampered with to frame him. The delayed arrival of the ambulance is also questioned, with some speculating that it was used to administer a forced abortion.

While acknowledging that conspiracy theorists have raised doubts about the official explanation, the article concludes that the evidence still points towards an accident caused by speeding and an intoxicated driver. However, it concedes that MI6 possessed both the motive and the means to carry out an assassination, and that Diana's death was indeed "convenient" for certain powerful factions in the UK.

Other Content

The issue also includes sections on SUFOI's organizational structure, its purpose, and its leadership. The transfer of SUFOI's report archive to Arkivet för UFO-forskning (AFU) in Sweden is announced, aiming to create a unified Nordic UFO research resource. The magazine also features a call for reader contributions and information about subscriptions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of unexplained aerial phenomena (UFOs), particularly through radar and satellite imagery, the scientific search for extraterrestrial life, and the exploration of conspiracy theories related to significant public events. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various accounts and theories while also acknowledging the need for critical analysis and evidence-based conclusions. The magazine facilitates discussion by publishing detailed reports, interviews, and analyses, and by inviting reader participation.

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 2/2003
Publication Date: 2003
Publisher: SUFOI

This issue of UFO-NYT, a Danish publication focused on UFO phenomena and related topics, features a prominent article on the release of the first Danish book dedicated to conspiracy theories. It also delves into the investigation of alleged UFO sightings captured by the SOHO solar observatory, debunks the Bigfoot hoax, and includes personal accounts of unexplained aerial phenomena. Additionally, a book review critically examines Joe Nickell's work on paranormal claims.

First Danish Book on Conspiracy Theories

The cover story highlights the release of "Konspirationsteorier - 20 populære sammensværgelser" (Conspiracy Theories - 20 Popular Conspiracies) by Lars Bugge, published by SUFOI on April 10th. The book addresses questions such as whether Princess Diana was murdered, if AIDS was man-made, and the truth behind the sinking of the Estonia. It also covers classic theories concerning John F. Kennedy, the moon landing, and the Roswell incident. The article emphasizes that the book does not solve these mysteries but presents facts for readers to form their own conclusions. It notes that the book has received positive press, including a mention on the TV program "Go' Morgen Danmark." The book is 42 pages in A4 format and is richly illustrated. It is available for 88 DKK, with an additional 19 DKK for postage and handling.

UFOs in SOHO Images?

An article by Ole Henningsen discusses claims that the SOHO solar observatory has captured images of UFOs. It explains that SOHO continuously photographs the sun and provides data to ESA and NASA. While SOHO has provided valuable information about solar processes and space weather, some internet sites and articles have pointed to unidentified objects in its images. The article clarifies that SOHO is an international collaboration, with Danish company Alcatel Denmark Space contributing to its hardware and Aarhus University participating in helioseismic studies. However, the claims of UFOs in SOHO images have been widely circulated, leading NASA to issue a denial. Solar researcher Pål Brekke, part of the SOHO project, has established a website (http://soho.nascom.nasa.gov/hotshots/2003_01_17/) to explain the phenomena. These alleged UFOs are often identified as planets, comets, software glitches, particles from insulation material, dust, micrometeorites, or cosmic ray tracks. The article notes that the intense interest in these images caused the website to crash due to high traffic.

The Bigfoot Footprints Hoax

Another section reveals that the famous giant footprints discovered in Humboldt, California, in 1958 were a hoax. Ray Wallace, who died at age 84 in November 2002, and his brother Wilbur created the footprints using a pair of homemade wooden sandals. The article states that this was intended as a practical joke that spiraled out of control. Ray Wallace was also linked to other Bigfoot-related stories and photos, and he reportedly enjoyed telling stories about his supposed encounters with Bigfoot. While he never publicly admitted to the hoax, it is suggested he viewed the Bigfoot myth as an opportunity for storytelling and amusement. The article also mentions the famous 1967 film of Bigfoot by Roger Patterson, and Ray Wallace's later claim that the film was a fake, and he knew who played Bigfoot.

Reader Letters

Several reader letters share personal accounts of unexplained phenomena:

• Kurt Haurvig Juhl recounts his first inexplicable observation in 1952 while on a Danish ship. He witnessed a bright object shoot from the sky and explode, followed by another luminous object that hovered and then ascended at incredible speed. He also recalls seeing strange, humming objects and later, during the Sputnik era, observing multiple Sputniks in the sky. He also describes a peculiar object seen near Haderslev before World War II.
• E.H.L. (anonymously) describes an event from the late 1940s or early 1950s near Vigsnæs, Lolland. While walking with his parents, they observed a round, dark object, the size of the full moon, hovering silently. The object then ascended rapidly and disappeared. Later, two similar objects were seen hovering in the sky.
• A 50-year-old woman from Agerskov, Sønderjylland, recounts an experience from the mid-1970s. While driving at night, she encountered a bright, flickering orange-red light that appeared to be a forest fire. As she drove closer, her car slowed down inexplicably, and she felt as though time was standing still. She describes passing through the light, which felt like moving through a slow-motion state. Upon exiting the 'light,' her car resumed normal function. She still wonders what this phenomenon was.
• A report from 4060 Kirke Såby, May 5, 1995, describes an observation by a couple in their garden. They saw a silent object, compared to the top of a Nilfisk vacuum cleaner, hovering at low altitude. The object then made a sharp turn and moved rapidly eastward. Later, it reappeared, appearing more triangular and flying slowly northward. The object was described as having a dark, brownish, finely textured underside.

Book Review: Real-Life X-Files

Kim Møller Hansen reviews Joe Nickell's book "Real-Life X-Files: Investigating the Paranormal." Nickell, a former detective and Senior Research Fellow at CSI-COP, is known for his skeptical approach to paranormal claims. The book examines 40 cases, including spontaneous human combustion, clairvoyance, poltergeists, UFO cults, and the Kennedy curse. Nickell's method involves visiting sites, interviewing witnesses, and seeking natural explanations, often debunking claims as hoaxes, misinterpretations, or psychological phenomena like 'contagion' (mass hysteria). The review highlights Nickell's thorough research, his ability to trace claims back to original sources, and his logical debunking of mysteries, such as the weeping Madonna statues and alleged psychic abilities.

Photo Case: Mysterious Light Over Meilgaard Slot

This section presents a photo case from Torben Schlichter, who photographed Meilgaard Slot on March 29, 2002. The developed photos revealed mysterious red spots in the sky. SUFOI investigated the images and identified four such spots. They concluded that these were not UFOs but rather classic lens reflections caused by strong light sources from the castle windows. The article notes that the photographer himself had considered this possibility.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO-NYT maintains a consistent editorial stance of critical inquiry and skepticism towards paranormal claims, while also acknowledging and investigating genuine unexplained phenomena. The magazine provides a platform for personal accounts of sightings and experiences, encouraging readers to share their observations. The review of Joe Nickell's book strongly reinforces this skeptical approach, emphasizing the importance of scientific investigation and logical explanation over sensationalism. The coverage of the SOHO images and the Bigfoot hoax further exemplifies this theme, demonstrating how seemingly mysterious events can often be attributed to natural causes or deliberate deception. The publication of the first Danish book on conspiracy theories suggests an interest in exploring these complex topics, but the magazine's overall tone encourages a discerning and evidence-based perspective.

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 2/2003
Date: 2003
Publisher: SUFOI
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of UFO-NYT, published by SUFOI, delves into significant events and discussions within the UFO community. It features the foundational Kenneth Arnold sighting, debunks a misleading article about a B-2 stealth bomber, and reports on SUFOI's media activities.

The Kenneth Arnold Sighting: "Lyt til historien"

The cover story, "Lyt til historien" (Listen to the story), focuses on the pivotal Kenneth Arnold sighting. On Tuesday, June 24, 1947, while flying from Chehalis to Yakima in Washington State, businessman and pilot Kenneth Arnold observed nine unusual objects near Mount Rainier. He was searching for a downed transport plane for which a $5,000 reward was offered. Arnold described the objects as moving like saucers skipping on water, a description that led to the coining of the term "flying saucers." The magazine offers a cassette tape of a radio interview with Kenneth Arnold, recorded shortly after the experience, providing his firsthand account. The price for this cassette is 20 Danish Kroner.

Debunking the B-2 Stealth Bomber Myth

An article titled "Adamski-blad fupper sine læsere!" (Adamski magazine fools its readers!) by Kim Møller Hansen critiques an article published in UFO-Kontakt, a magazine from IGAP. The UFO-Kontakt article featured a color photograph of a B-2 stealth bomber with a caption claiming it possessed "anti-gravity propulsion" and could achieve speeds exceeding Mach 40 (45,000 km/h). The caption attributed this information to Edgar Rothschild-Fouche and cited "Dr. Boylan" as a source. The author of the UFO-NYT article dismisses this as "wishful thinking" and "lack of investigation," noting that a simple internet search reveals the facts. The photograph, taken by Bobby Garcia, was awarded a prize by Aviation Week & Space Technology. The article clarifies that the "corona" mentioned around the aircraft is simply condensation, formed by the plane's speed, air humidity, and pressure, and can appear in various forms, even when breaking the sound barrier. The article provides a link to www.ufo.dk for further information on condensation phenomena and includes a photo of an F/A-18 Hornet creating condensation trails over the Pacific Ocean in 1999, photographed by John Gay from the USS Constellation.

SUFOI in TV

This section, "Foreningsnyt" (Association News), details SUFOI's recent media engagements. The premiere of Spielberg's "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" generated renewed interest in UFOs and SUFOI's work. SUFOI representatives appeared on TV2's "Go' Morgen Danmark" on April 24 and in the news on "DR-Morgen" on April 25. The article includes photos from these appearances: Kim Møller Hansen and Henrik Klinge Pedersen in the "Go' Morgen Danmark" studio with host Ole Stephensen; Henrik Klinge Pedersen discussing how a scene from the film resembles real UFO observations; and Jesper Theilgaard, a meteorologist from DR Nyheder, talking about mysterious night lights. SUFOI's chairman, Kim Møller Hansen, is shown with "DR-Morgen" news anchor Paula Larrain. The TV appearances led to increased visits to www.ufo.dk and more UFO report submissions. The premiere of "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" at Imperial on April 25 was preceded by a lecture by Per Andersen for an audience of 500.

www.ufo.dk Success and Reader Submissions

The article highlights the success of SUFOI's website, www.ufo.dk, which receives 11,000 visitors and over 300,000 hits monthly. The site offers articles, observation reports, books, and videos, and allows users to submit their own observations or photos for review. The magazine presents two reader-submitted photos for analysis. The first, submitted by Jesper S. Simonsen, taken in 2000, shows a mysterious object near a bridge, which the submitter notes resembles a seagull. The second set of photos, submitted by Simon Nielsen, were taken during a summer day in August 2002 featuring unusual "supercell"-like clouds. Nielsen discovered an indescribable object in two of the photos, which he did not notice at the time of taking them. Both images are cropped, as his original intention was to photograph the clouds. The magazine asks readers for their help in explaining these phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes critical examination of UFO reports, distinguishing between genuine phenomena and misidentifications or hoaxes. The debunking of the B-2 bomber story exemplifies this stance, emphasizing the importance of thorough research and factual verification over sensationalism. SUFOI actively engages with the public through its website and media appearances, aiming to educate and gather information on UFO phenomena. The recurring theme is the ongoing investigation and documentation of UFO sightings, with a focus on credible evidence and scientific analysis, while also acknowledging the public's fascination and interest in the subject.