UFO Nyt - No 2 2010

Magazine Overview

Title: ufo nyt
Issue: 2
Volume: 52. årg.
Date: 2. kvartal 2010 (published April 5, 2010)
Publisher: SUFOI (Skandinavisk UFO Information)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
ISSN: 0049-4976
Price: kr. 357.00 (annual subscription)

This issue of "ufo nyt" (UFO News) focuses heavily on the Danish Air Force's UFO archive, often referred to as the 'Danish X-Files'. The cover features several intriguing headlines such as "Hello, is anyone there?", "A man full of numbers", "What do the Danish X-files contain?", and "How to make an impression on an alien?", hinting at the contents within.

Content Breakdown

Editorial and Introduction

The issue begins with an editorial titled "Ned på jorden..." (Down to Earth...) by Kim Møller Hansen. He discusses the tendency for many to believe that military authorities are hiding the truth about UFOs. He references the British ufologist David Clarke, who noted that groups receiving declassified documents often suspect they are being misled. Hansen emphasizes the need for grounded, critical research rather than wishful thinking, highlighting that analyzing UFO reports requires hard work, experience, and knowledge.

The editorial also points out that the Danish Air Force's UFO archive, comprising 329 pages of reports from 1978-2002, has been publicly accessible since January 28, 2009. Ole Henningsen's article, "Hvad indeholder de danske X-Files? 1. del" (What do the Danish X-Files contain? Part 1), delves into this archive.

"Hvad indeholder de danske X-Files? 1. del"

This article by Ole Henningsen provides an overview of the Danish Air Force's UFO archive. It clarifies that the material is not classified and was not kept secret. The archive contains reports from 1978-2002, with no information available on reports prior to 1978. The article notes that while the reports are not sensational, they offer interesting and educational reading. It highlights that the archive primarily consists of filled-out questionnaires, particularly 'Form 3622', which was used for documenting UFO sightings.

• Key points from this section include:
• Non-classified material: The archive was never classified or secret.
• Form 3622: A standardized questionnaire used for reporting observations, designed for both military and civilian use.
• Content: The reports are generally not sensational but provide historical context and details of various sightings.
• Specific reports: The article mentions a notable report from Aalborg concerning military personnel observing UFOs, which will be detailed in a future issue.
• Limitations: Many reports lack sufficient detail for further investigation, and observations are often from a long time ago.

"Flyvevåbnets ufo-arkiv" (The Air Force's UFO Archive)

This section, spanning several pages (4-10), provides detailed examples of reports found within the Danish Air Force's UFO archive. It showcases the variety of observations and the methods used for documentation.

• Key aspects covered in this section:
• Registration of observations: The article discusses how observations were registered, often by duty officers at military bases like FTK (Flyvertaktisk Kommando) in Karup.
• Form 3622: The recurring use of this questionnaire is emphasized, detailing its fields and purpose.
• Examples of reports: Numerous specific incidents are detailed, including:
• A report from 1979 near Varde involving a metal tube found after a red light sighting.
• An observation from 1986 near Sorø of two airborne objects with pulsating lights.
• Reports from 1986 concerning a large light phenomenon attributed to a Russian rocket launch.
• A pilot's report of a 'neon green UFO' in 1986.
• An observation from 1987 of a luminous object near Burkal.
• A sighting from 1987 near Tejn, Bornholm, of a silent, orange object.
• A report from 1988 of a luminous object seen by a family near Præstø.
• An observation from 1988 of an 'fireball' phenomenon.
• A sighting from 1988 of a flying object with navigation lights and a steady light.
• A report from 1989 of a hexagonal object with multiple lights.
• An observation from 1990 of a round, orange object moving erratically.
• Reports from 1991 of a bright yellow light with a contrail-like tail, and a similar phenomenon observed from different locations.
• Military response: The articles often note the military's attempts to explain sightings, frequently attributing them to conventional aircraft, weather phenomena, or misidentification.
• SUFOI's involvement: The magazine highlights instances where SUFOI's own archives contain more detailed information or where SUFOI was involved in the initial investigation.

Other Articles

• "Hallo, er der nogen?" (Hello, is anyone there?): This appears to be a general introduction or thematic piece, possibly related to the cover headline.
• "En mand fuld af numre" (A man full of numbers): This article, mentioned on the cover and in the table of contents, likely refers to Almiro Baraúna, the hoaxer whose photos were featured on the cover.
• "Hvordan gør man indtryk på en alien?" (How to make an impression on an alien?): This title suggests a speculative or theoretical article about potential extraterrestrial contact.
• "Alene igen?" (Alone again?): The meaning of this title is not explicitly detailed in the provided text.
• "Nyt syn på luftskibsbølgen 1896-97" (New view on the airship wave 1896-97): This suggests a historical piece examining a past wave of sightings.
• "David Clarke, 1. del" (David Clarke, Part 1): This likely continues the discussion introduced in the editorial about David Clarke's work.
• "Læsertilbud" (Reader Offer): A section offering readers the chance to purchase back issues and other materials from SUFOI.

SUFOI Information

The magazine also includes standard information about SUFOI, its purpose, vision, leadership, contact details, and publication schedule for 2010. It details subscription information and how to report address changes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the systematic investigation of UFO phenomena, the role of official archives (particularly military ones), and the critical analysis of evidence. The editorial stance, as articulated by Kim Møller Hansen, strongly advocates for a grounded, evidence-based approach to ufology, cautioning against conspiratorial thinking and emphasizing the rigorous work required for genuine research. The magazine appears to be a platform for disseminating information from official sources like the Danish Air Force's UFO archive, while also encouraging critical thinking among its readers.

This issue of UFO-NYT, dated 2/2010, features a prominent cover story titled "Flyvevåbnets ufo-arkiv" (The Air Force's UFO Archive), highlighting the Danish Air Force's historical involvement with UFO investigations. The magazine delves into various aspects of UFO research, including historical radar logs, SETI efforts, and analyses of notable sightings and alleged hoaxes.

Flyvevåbnets ufo-arkiv (The Air Force's UFO Archive)

The article "Kontrol og Varsling 1945-1959" (Control and Warning 1945-1959) details the early challenges faced by the Danish Air Force's radar control and warning systems. It mentions the operationalization of GCI Karup on September 3, 1951, equipped with AMES 14 search radar and AMES 13 height finder. The station operated during normal daytime hours. A significant event occurred on November 13, 1952, when radar tracks were observed continuously from 18:16 to 22:40. These tracks, mostly appearing south of Vamdrup and moving north and then northwest, were at speeds of approximately 240 knots and altitudes between 8,000 and 15,000 feet. The report notes that the radar system was not yet equipped for 24-hour operation. The article also touches upon a later explanation for some light phenomena being attributed to a falling Russian satellite. Another incident described is from August 12, 1991, where two police officers in Ordrup observed unusual lights in the sky. The issue also includes a section on how citizens can report UFO sightings today, directing them to SUFOI's website.

SETI and the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence

The magazine features two articles related to SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence). "Hvordan gør man indtryk på en alien?" (How to Make an Impression on an Alien?) discusses Frank Drake's perspective on the vastness of the universe and the low probability of receiving a response to the messages sent out. Drake suggests it's too early to conclude that we haven't been contacted, given the scale of the cosmos. The article also touches upon the Arecibo message sent in 1974 and the ethical considerations of revealing Earth's location. The second SETI-related piece, "Hallo, er der nogen?" (Hello, is anyone there?), explores the ongoing efforts of SETI researchers. It highlights the uncertainty in predicting when contact might be made, with estimates ranging from within 25 years to at least 250 years. The article mentions the exponential growth in SETI's capabilities and the continuous development of advanced telescopes and signal processing methods.

The 'Great Airship' Wave of 1896-97

"Nyt syn på luftskibsbølgen 1896-97" (New View on the Airship Wave of 1896-97) examines the historical phenomenon of widespread airship sightings in the USA. The article critiques J. Allen Danelek's book "The Great Airship of 1897," suggesting it offers little new information and lacks depth. It posits that the wave began on November 17, 1896, in Sacramento, California, and lasted for five months. The author attributes the sightings primarily to misinterpretations of natural phenomena like planets and meteors, as well as sensationalist journalism. The article notes that the public's expectation of new inventions, including airships, played a significant role in the interpretation of these sightings. It also discusses the influence of media moguls like William Randolph Hearst in shaping public opinion and potentially contributing to events like the Spanish-American War.

Photographic Hoaxes and Misinformation

"Almiro Baraúna var en fupmager" (Almiro Baraúna was a fraud) exposes the work of Almiro Baraúna, a photographer who created trick images of flying saucers in 1954, published in 'Mundo Ilustrado'. The article, aided by historian Rodolpho Gauthier, reveals how Baraúna staged these photos. It also details Baraúna's involvement in a hoax involving a treasure chest and a skull, which he initially denied but later admitted to. The article mentions that Baraúna's denial of the treasure chest hoax and his late admission in 1997 were overlooked by many. Another section, "Skatte og kranier" (Treasures and skulls), further elaborates on Baraúna's photographic manipulations.

Book Reviews

The magazine includes reviews of several books. "The Eerie Silence: Are we alone in the universe?" by Paul Davies is recommended for those interested in SETI and UFOs, with a focus on Davies' views on UFOs and government secrecy. The review highlights Davies' skepticism towards UFO abduction claims, viewing them as a modern form of demonology. "The Great Airship of 1897 - A Provocative Look at the Most Mysterious Aviation Event in History" by J. Allen Danelek is reviewed critically for its lack of new insights. "Outbreak! The Encyclopedia of Extraordinary Social Behaviour" by Hilary Evans and Robert Bartholomew is also mentioned as a valuable resource.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the historical documentation of UFO phenomena, the scientific search for extraterrestrial life, and the critical examination of evidence, including photographic hoaxes and historical misinterpretations. The magazine adopts a critical and analytical stance, aiming to demystify the UFO debate by presenting factual accounts, historical context, and expert opinions. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between credible evidence and sensationalism or outright fabrication. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation and a skeptical approach to extraordinary claims, while acknowledging the enduring fascination with the unknown.

This issue of UFO-NYT features the first part of an in-depth interview with David Clarke, a prominent British ufologist, journalist, and lecturer. The magazine is dated 2/2010 and focuses on Clarke's personal journey and evolving perspectives on the UFO phenomenon.

David Clarke's Early Interest and Influences

David Clarke recounts how his fascination with UFOs began at the age of 11 in 1977, sparked by the science fiction film 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind.' This initial interest was further fueled by reading authors like Erich von Däniken and books on the Bermuda Triangle, as well as watching TV series such as 'Arthur C. Clarke's Mysterious World.' He notes that this period in the 1970s was a formative time for many UFO enthusiasts.

Clarke became a member of BUFORA (British UFO Research Association) in 1980 and subscribed to the Fortean Times. He began investigating cases in the Sheffield area, recalling an early, unremarkable sighting of lights in the sky, followed by a more distinct case in 1978 or 1979 where a woman reported seeing a classic flying saucer with windows from her apartment in central Sheffield. He initially questioned the witness's perception, suggesting it might be influenced by prior exposure to media, and began to ponder how personal backgrounds shape interpretations of events.

Developing a Critical Perspective

Clarke's academic pursuits, including studying archaeology and later journalism, played a significant role in shaping his critical approach. He initially accepted the 'whole package' of UFO lore, including theories about extraterrestrial intelligence, the Bermuda Triangle, and ancient astronauts. However, during his university studies in the mid-1980s, he began to question the simplicity of these explanations.

His early investigative work involved writing letters to obtain information, a stark contrast to the internet age. He joined groups like The West Yorkshire UFO Research Group, where he met individuals like Andy Roberts and Graham Birdsall, who later founded UFO-Magazine. Clarke mentions a period in the early 1990s where his interest waned as he explored folklore and ley lines, but it was rekindled by attending a major congress in Sheffield in 1990-1995, which featured the famous autopsy film.

Skepticism and the Human Factor

Upon completing his journalism degree in the early 1990s, Clarke's skepticism intensified. His skills in interviewing and in-depth investigation led him to scrutinize UFO reports more critically. He notes that many ufologists tend to accept witness testimonies at face value without considering underlying factors. Clarke identifies himself as a 'doubter' rather than a 'debunker,' distinguishing himself from American ufologists who often categorize people as either debunkers or believers.

He illustrates his point with the case of mysterious lights seen near Cracobbjerget in Northern Yorkshire in the early 1980s. While experts initially found the photographic evidence mysterious, Clarke and Andy Roberts investigated and concluded the lights were reflections of the sun on wet areas. However, the Birdsall brothers, who had promoted the area as a UFO hotspot, refused to accept this explanation, highlighting a common issue in ufology where a proposed explanation is rejected because it contradicts a pre-existing narrative.

Clarke emphasizes that the 'mystery itself' fascinates him. After filtering out mundane explanations, he is left with cases that raise significant questions. He believes the human factor—why people have these experiences and how their worldview changes—is as interesting as the phenomena themselves.

Government Investigations and Document Release

Clarke discusses the declassification of government documents related to UFOs. He explains that prior to 1967, British authorities systematically destroyed UFO-related material every five years. This practice changed after parliamentary questions arose in 1967 regarding the government's policy on such matters. Consequently, the archives now primarily contain material from 1967 onwards, with older documents being rare survivors.

He recounts his search for the 'Churchill documents,' which hinted at a UFO investigation in 1951. This led him to discover the existence of 'The 'Flying Saucer' Working Party,' a top-secret document that was eventually released in 1998. Despite initial difficulties in locating the relevant files, Clarke and his colleagues eventually found them in 2001, similar to how they later found the Rendlesham Forest documents. The 'Flying Saucer' Working Party's report, intended to address Winston Churchill's inquiries, was found to be flawed and based on incomplete investigations.

Clarke notes that British defense authorities continued UFO investigations after the negative report, citing Operation Mainbrace as an example. However, he criticizes the quality of these investigations, which rarely involved thorough interviews with witnesses, especially military personnel. He points out that resources were often limited, and investigations typically concluded once potential threats, such as Russian incursions, were ruled out, regardless of the intrinsic interest of the case.

Collaboration and the Future of UFO Research

Clarke expresses a critical view of many British ufologists, suggesting that only a handful truly understand the subject, while others are involved for social reasons. He feels that many already have preconceived notions and are unwilling to investigate objectively. This has led him to distance himself from large groups and conferences, preferring to collaborate with a smaller, dedicated team.

He mentions a working group formed in the late 1990s and early 2000s, including Andy Roberts, Joe McGonagle, Gary Anthony, and Jenny Randles, with whom he has co-authored books and articles. This collaborative approach, he believes, allows for more valuable and focused work on the subject.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The interview strongly emphasizes a critical and evidence-based approach to ufology. David Clarke advocates for rigorous investigation, skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, and a focus on the psychological and sociological aspects of UFO experiences. The magazine's editorial stance appears to align with this critical perspective, presenting Clarke's views as a valuable counterpoint to more credulous approaches within the UFO community. The interview highlights the importance of journalistic integrity and thorough research in understanding the complex phenomenon of UFOs.