UFO Nyt - No 3 2005

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO Nyt
Issue: Nr. 3, 47. årg. 2005 (3rd quarter)
Publisher: SUFOI (Skandinavisk UFO Information)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
ISSN: 0049-4976

This issue of UFO Nyt, published by Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI), focuses on the intersection of UFO phenomena and scientific inquiry. The cover features a striking image and headlines that promise a deep dive into topics ranging from UFOs in art to scientific investigation and historical accounts.

Contents Overview

The issue is structured with a detailed table of contents on page 2, outlining the articles and their respective page numbers. Key articles include:

• "De er her endnu!" (They are still here!): An editorial by Kim Møller Hansen reflecting on the perceived decrease in UFO sightings despite increased technology, referencing Steven Spielberg's thoughts on the matter and the challenges of photographic evidence.
• "Derfor skal videnskaben studere ufoer" (Why science should study UFOs): A multi-part article by Dr. James Deardorff, Dr. Bernard Haisch, Dr. Bruce Maccabee, and Dr. H. E. Puthoff, exploring the scientific arguments for investigating UFOs, including the Fermi paradox, exobiology, and theoretical possibilities for interstellar travel like wormholes and warp drives.
• "Arven fra foo-fighterne" (The legacy of foo-fighters): An article by Jenny Randles discussing the historical 'foo-fighter' sightings during World War II and their relevance to modern UFO research, suggesting that the military's initial focus on threat assessment rather than scientific inquiry has hindered progress.
• "Ufoer og videnskaben" (UFOs and science): A recurring section that delves into the scientific aspects of UFO research, including discussions on historical investigations like Project Blue Book and the controversial Condon Report.

Article Summaries

Editorial: "De er her endnu!"

Kim Møller Hansen opens the issue by addressing Steven Spielberg's observation that UFO sightings have decreased compared to 20 years ago, despite the proliferation of recording devices. Hansen suggests this might be due to a better understanding of natural phenomena, the effectiveness of organizations like SUFOI in providing explanations, or perhaps a shift in how sightings are categorized. He notes the increase in amateur photographic and video evidence but questions its quality and media's handling of it. The editorial also touches upon the credibility issues arising from the rapid dissemination of user-generated content in the digital age.

"Derfor skal videnskaben studere ufoer" (Part 1 & 2)

This extensive article, authored by Deardorff, Haisch, Maccabee, and Puthoff, makes a case for the scientific study of UFOs. It begins by revisiting Enrico Fermi's paradox – the contradiction between the high probability of extraterrestrial civilizations and the lack of evidence for them. The authors argue that recent scientific discoveries, such as the cataloging of exoplanets and theories about the origin of life's building blocks in space (panspermia), strengthen the hypothesis of intelligent life elsewhere. They discuss theoretical concepts from general relativity, like wormholes and the Alcubierre warp drive, as potential mechanisms for interstellar travel, suggesting that advanced civilizations might possess the technology to overcome the light-speed barrier. The article also critiques the historical approach to UFO investigations, particularly the US Air Force's Project Blue Book and the subsequent Condon Report, highlighting that a significant percentage of cases remained unexplained even in official studies. The authors contend that the Condon Report's conclusion, which downplayed the significance of unexplained cases, was influenced by Condon's personal biases rather than a thorough scientific analysis of all the data.

"Arven fra foo-fighterne"

Jenny Randles examines the historical context of 'foo-fighter' sightings during World War II. She interviews individuals involved in debriefing bomber crews, revealing that these mysterious lights were initially considered a potential threat, possibly advanced German weaponry. However, because they didn't appear to pose an immediate danger and weren't linked to known adversaries, they were deprioritized by military intelligence. Randles argues that this historical approach, focusing on threat assessment rather than genuine scientific curiosity, has created a legacy that continues to affect how UFO phenomena are treated today – often dismissed due to a lack of perceived threat or direct benefit to national security. She suggests that the scientific community and authorities still ask the wrong questions, mirroring the military's past approach.

"Ufoer og videnskaben" (UFOs and science)

This section features several components:

• The Condon Report (1969): A detailed critique of the Condon Report, emphasizing the discrepancy between its summary conclusion and the data within the report itself. It highlights that a significant portion of the cases studied remained unexplained, contradicting the report's overall negative stance on further UFO research. The analysis points out that the report's findings were accepted uncritically by the scientific community and used by the Air Force to terminate its investigations.
• Project Blue Book Special Report No. 14: A reference to a specific report that was part of the historical UFO investigations.
• News Release from the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs): A dated (December 17, 1969) press release announcing the termination of Project Blue Book, citing the Condon Report and the lack of national security or scientific justification for continuation.
• References: An extensive list of academic and scientific publications cited throughout the articles, indicating a rigorous approach to the subject matter.

Authors' Biographies

Brief biographies are provided for the key contributors:

• Dr. James Deardorff: Background in physics, meteorology, and atmospheric sciences; interest in UFOs since 1970, focusing on the Billy Meier case.
• Dr. Bernard Haisch: PhD in astrophysics and astronomy; extensive experience in scientific research and publications.
• Dr. Bruce Maccabee: PhD in physics; long career in optical data processing and strategic defense initiatives; prolific author on UFO topics.
• Dr. H. E. Puthoff: Background in physics and advanced studies; research interests include gravity, cosmology, and propulsion systems.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific validation of UFO phenomena, the historical context of UFO investigations, and the perceived reluctance of mainstream science and authorities to engage with the subject. The editorial stance, particularly in the lead article and the critique of the Condon Report, is critical of the dismissive attitudes often adopted by official bodies and scientific institutions. There is a clear advocacy for a more open-minded and rigorous scientific approach to UFO research, emphasizing that unexplained cases, even from historical investigations, warrant further study. The magazine positions itself as a platform for serious inquiry into UFOs, providing detailed analyses and scientific arguments to support its position. The issue also highlights the role of amateur evidence and the challenges of integrating it into a scientific framework.

This issue of UFO-NYT, dated 3/2005, features a cover story titled "På jagt efter liv i rummet" (Searching for life in space), with a prominent quote from astrophysicist Michael Linden-Vørnle. The issue includes a review of Jens Kerte's book "Universet – dødt eller levende?" (The Universe – dead or alive?), an article detailing a radar observation incident in France, and a skeptical analysis of alleged UFO sightings in historical art.

Book Review: "Universet – dødt eller levende?"

The review focuses on Jens Kerte's interview-based book with astrophysicist Michael Linden-Vørnle. Linden-Vørnle believes it's crucial to search for extraterrestrial life to understand ourselves and the universe. While he doesn't believe Earth is visited by aliens, he acknowledges that a small percentage of UFO observations remain unexplained by known phenomena. In the book, Linden-Vørnle is asked what he would ask an alien if given one question, to which he responds by inquiring about their genetic programming. He posits that the DNA code, with its four bases and 20 amino acids, might not be a universal necessity for life, suggesting alien life could have a different genetic code. He also expresses a belief in intelligent life in the distant universe and the possibility of primitive life on moons like Europa, Jupiter's icy moon, due to potential subsurface oceans and geological activity.

The review praises the book's popular science communication, highlighting its engaging discussion of life's mysteries, scientific discoveries, and the universe. The chapters on life on Earth, in the solar system, and in the wider universe are particularly commended, along with the glossary and timelines.

However, the review criticizes the book's concluding chapter, "Rumvæsner på Jorden" (Aliens on Earth), describing it as "UFO-nonsense and rubbish." It argues that this chapter attempts to cover the history of ufology in a disorganized manner, touching upon various figures and events like George Adamski, Erich von Däniken, the Roswell incident, and J. Allen Hynek. The reviewer disputes the connection between Adamski and von Däniken, noting their different time periods and backgrounds. Regarding the Roswell incident, the article cites a 1997 Time Magazine analysis suggesting it was a secret spy balloon test, not a crashed alien spacecraft. The reviewer credits Charles Berlitz's 1980 book with reviving the Roswell story, which had largely been forgotten since 1947, and criticizes the tendency of some witnesses to suddenly recall details years later. The reviewer also points out that Time Magazine's reporting on Roswell was based on the research of others.

The review concludes by recommending readers skip the final chapter and enjoy the rest of the book.

Radar Observation in France

This article, written by Claude Poher, details a radar incident that occurred on December 14, 1976, near Contrexéville Air Base in northeastern France. Seven radar operators witnessed three unknown phenomena tracked by military radar around 2:00 AM, 3:00 AM, and 3:30 AM. The phenomena exhibited unusual flight paths and speeds, with radar echoes appearing 10-15 nautical miles apart, indicating speeds of approximately 6,700-10,000 km/h (Mach 5-8). This speed was far beyond the capabilities of any known aircraft at the time. The objects were tracked at altitudes of 7,000 meters and later 10,500 meters. Despite the high altitude, no sonic booms were heard. The radar data was classified as secret. Poher, who founded GEPAN (a French UFO research group) in 1977, investigated the case personally. He dismisses explanations involving meteors, space debris, or radar malfunctions, concluding that the observations were of genuine, high-speed aerial objects.

Skeptical View: UFOs in Art

This section, written by Massimo Polidoro and others, critically examines claims that certain historical artworks depict UFOs. The article argues that interpretations of these artworks as evidence of alien visitation are often based on a lack of understanding of historical artistic conventions, symbolism, and context.

• "Madonna con Bambino e San Giovannino": The "object" in the background is interpreted as a divine symbol or a representation of a heavenly light, not a spacecraft. The article explains that such depictions were common in religious art of the period.
• Carlo Crivelli's "Annunciazione" (Annunciation): The supposed "ufo" is identified as a swirling vortex of angels, a common artistic device to represent divine presence. The reviewer notes that poor quality reproductions can mislead viewers.
• Crivelli's "Madonna con Bambino": Alleged "missiles" are identified as architectural elements like spires and bell towers, which are characteristic of Crivelli's work.
• "Santissima Trinità" by Bonaventura Salimbeni: The "object" is explained as a representation of the Creation globe, with the sun and moon, and sceptres held by Christ and God, not a "Montalcino Sputnik."
• Gustave Doré's engraving of Dante's "Paradiso": The objects are interpreted as representations of the sun and moon, often depicted with faces in Byzantine art, rather than alien craft.
• Paolo Uccello's "Tebaide": The supposed "flying saucer" is identified as a large red hat belonging to Saint Jerome, a detail consistent with artistic depictions of the saint.
• Aert De Gelder's "Baptism of Jesus": The "ufo" in the sky is explained as a typical representation of the Holy Spirit (a dove) within a circle of light, consistent with evangelic descriptions.
• Masolino Da Panicale's "Miracolo della neve" (Miracle of the Snow): The "ufo invasion" is attributed to stylized clouds, a common artistic technique in the 15th century, and the event itself is a depiction of a snow miracle, which has historical precedents.

The article concludes that "ufo hunters" often ignore art historical context and symbolism, leading to misinterpretations of everyday objects or religious symbols as alien technology. It highlights that such interpretations are easily debunked by understanding the historical and artistic background of the artworks.

Online Resources

The issue also provides information on online resources for UFO research:

• Massimo Polidoro's website: www.massimopolidoro.com
• Diego Cuoghi's website: www.sprezzatura.it/Arte/Arte_UFO_eng.htm
• Matthew Hurley's website: www.ufoartwork.com, and his book "The Alien Chronicles."
• Blue Book Archive: www.bluebookarchive.org, a website offering free access to thousands of pages from the US Air Force's UFO archives (Project Blue Book), including documents from Project Sign and the Maxwell Air Force Base archive.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a skeptical approach to UFO phenomena, particularly when examining claims related to historical art and anecdotal evidence. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained sightings (as highlighted in the review of Linden-Vørnle's book and the French radar incident), the editorial stance favors rational explanations, scientific inquiry, and critical analysis. The "Skeptisk set" (Skeptical View) section is dedicated to debunking popular UFO myths and misinterpretations, emphasizing the importance of historical context and scientific understanding. The magazine also promotes accessible research resources, such as online archives, encouraging a more informed and critical engagement with the topic of UFOs.

Title: UFO-Nyt
Issue: 3/2005
Date: 2005
Publisher: SUFOI
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of UFO-Nyt focuses on the intersection of UFO phenomena and public policy, featuring an interview with Clas Svahn, chairman of UFO-Sverige, and a report on a recent sighting over Copenhagen.

UFOs Should Engage Politicians

The main article features Clas Svahn, who won a reader poll in the Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet to write about what the Swedish government should do for UFO research. Svahn argues that a lack of understanding about UFOs is the primary obstacle and questions whether UFOs should be considered a political issue. He highlights a 1995 survey indicating that 42.1% of Swedes believe they have been visited by extraterrestrial beings and notes that at least one person contacts UFO-Sverige daily with unexplained aerial sightings. Svahn emphasizes that these individuals, including pilots, simply want to understand what they have seen.

UFO-Sverige's Extensive Work

Svahn details the extensive work of UFO-Sverige, which has operated for 35 years on voluntary labor and without public funding. Their activities include listening to and interviewing witnesses, visiting observation sites, documenting findings, and archiving information. They have built a significant knowledge base on human perception, unusual phenomena, and misinterpretations of natural events. UFO-Sverige also maintains the world's largest UFO archive, AFU (www.afu.se), and has unique contacts with universities and military institutions. Their efforts include providing lectures, running courses, and assisting mass media and students with facts and commentary, all funded by their own means and during their free time. Svahn describes UFO-Sverige as an active part of the Swedish popular education movement, aiming to collect and analyze folkloristic narratives that might otherwise be lost.

Political Engagement and Military Encounters

The article touches upon political engagement, mentioning Anders Gernandt, a former test pilot and Member of Parliament, who facilitated a meeting in the 1970s between Swedish UFO organizations and the Swedish Supreme Commander, Stig Synnergren. However, it notes that many Swedish MPs have struggled to differentiate between UFOs and flying saucers (interpreted as alien spacecraft). Prime Minister Göran Persson is quoted stating in 1997 that he did not believe in UFOs or alien visits. Conversely, Party Leader Olof Johansson (C) is praised by Svahn for his appreciation of UFO-Sverige's work in exposing fraudsters and individuals with Nazi backgrounds, calling it 'important democratic cleansing'.

Recognition and Resource Needs

Svahn mentions that the work of UFO-Sverige is in high demand and is considered serious and objective. He notes that National Geographic Channel acknowledged their work, providing an economic recognition. Svahn stresses the need for resources to enhance their research quality, enabling better investigation of reports, historical research in military and civilian archives, and increased publication and dissemination of findings. The goal is to provide answers, explain myths, and shift the debate from belief to knowledge, emphasizing that questions significantly impacting the worldview should engage politicians.

Book and Film Promotion

On page 2, a section titled "Læsertilbud" (Reader Offers) promotes a new book by Jens Kerte, "Universet - dødt eller levende?" (The Universe - Dead or Alive?), featuring an interview with astrophysicist Michael Linden-Vørnle. The book explores the possibility of life in the cosmos. The offer includes ordering the book for 249.00 DKK. This section also advertises a sale of rare back issues of UFO-Nyt, out-of-print Danish UFO books, and a film poster from the 1970s Danish premiere of "Close Encounters of the Third Kind." A specific poster for SUFOI's 40th anniversary is also available.

Complete UFO-Nyt Collection

Another offer invites bids for a complete set of UFO-Nyt magazines from November 1958 to 2004. Some early issues are available as photocopies. The highest bid over 2,200.00 DKK will secure the collection, with bids to be submitted to the editor, Kim Møller Hansen, by October 1, 2005. The collection is sold as a single lot, and postage is included.

Order Form

Page 3 contains a detailed order form for various back issues of UFO-Nyt, starting from the November 1958-59 issue up to 1993, with prices listed for each year. It also lists specific issues like "Det Ukendte" and books by authors such as Willy Wegner, Per Andersen, and Kim Møller Hansen, covering topics like UFO literature, landings in Denmark, and specific cases. Posters of UFOs and the "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" film are also available for purchase. A new item, Jens Kerte's "Universet - dødt eller levende?", is listed for 249.00 DKK. A free guide to identifying celestial phenomena is offered with orders.

Orange Light Sighting Over Copenhagen

Page 4 presents a report from a female journalist in Copenhagen who observed an orange light on June 30, 2005, from her apartment on Christianshavn. She described the object as being the size of a football, possibly larger, with a strong red-orange glow, shaped like a star or a faceted Christmas star. It moved silently and slowly at an estimated altitude of 30-40 meters, passing her and heading towards Copenhagen harbor. She noted that a second identical object appeared and followed the same path. The journalist ruled out meteors, flares, or balloons, emphasizing the objects' silent, steady, and determined movement, including a left turn, which she found unlike known phenomena. Inquiries to the Flyvertaktisk Kommando and Copenhagen Airport authorities did not yield any identification of the observed lights. Further observation reports are available on the SUFOI website.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO-Nyt strongly advocates for the importance of UFO research and its potential political implications. The editorial stance supports the need for greater public awareness, scientific investigation, and political engagement with the topic. The magazine actively promotes its own archival work and publications, encouraging reader participation through sales and bids for collected materials. The inclusion of a specific sighting report from Copenhagen highlights the ongoing nature of unexplained aerial phenomena and the challenges in obtaining official explanations.