AFU Newsletter - No 11 - 1977

Magazine Overview

This issue of 'nyhetsblad' (issue 11, July-December 1977) from the Arbeitsgruppen für ufologi (AFU) focuses heavily on the topic of 'Astronauter & UFOs'. The cover headline prominently features this theme, with an article by James Oberg, a young American scientific space journalist, analyzing alleged UFO sightings by US astronauts.

AFU Information and Services

The magazine begins with contact information for AFU, including postal address and phone numbers for various services like library, bibliographical research, and documentation. It details the annual membership fee of 30 kronor, which grants access to book lists and the special UFO literature library. AFU also appeals for donations of books, magazines, and financial contributions to their book fund.

Key Articles and Features

Astronauter & UFOs by James Oberg

James Oberg's extensive article, based on a 25-page study, critically examines claims that US astronauts have encountered unidentified flying objects (UFOs) in space. Oberg, with direct assistance from NASA, including photo analyst Richard Underwood, concludes that there is no evidence to support such speculations. He meticulously analyzes numerous cases, attributing them to misunderstandings, deliberate hoaxes, falsifications, and paranoid overinterpretations of natural phenomena. The article is richly illustrated with photographic examples, though the magazine notes it cannot reproduce them due to their sophisticated nature.

Several specific astronaut cases are detailed:

• May 1962/Mercury_7/Carpenter: A photo claimed to show a UFO was actually a space balloon used for training.
• October 1962/Mercury_8/Schirra: An observed glowing object was identified as cloud masses illuminated by lightning.
• May 1963/Mercury_9/Cooper: Cooper's alleged sighting of a green object is questioned, as he has no recollection of it, and the story originated from a journalist.
• June 1965/Gemini_4/McDivitt & White: An object described as cylindrical was identified as the Gemini's own rocket stage, which had been previously observed but sometimes misidentified.
• December 1965/Gemini 7/Borman & Lovell: A photo showing 'luminous objects' was solar reflections off rocket nozzles, with the original photo retouched.
• September 1966/Gemini 11/Conrad & Gordon: An observed object was identified as the falling Proton-3 satellite, which appeared faster due to its descent.
• November 1969/Apollo 12/Conrad, Gordon, Bean: The 'pursuit' reported by Conrad was a misinterpretation of a docking maneuver involving a protective panel being ejected.

Oberg criticizes the handling of astronaut reports by the Condon investigation, particularly Franklin E. Roach. He also notes that while NASA is generally open, some individuals have taken photos out of context to create UFO narratives.

Statements on UFOs

The issue also addresses general statements attributed to astronauts like Young, Mitchell, Cernan, and Cooper. Oberg asserts that none of them have claimed to see UFOs or alien spacecraft. John Young is quoted as saying there's a high chance of intelligent civilizations on other planets, which was sensationalized by journalists. Conversely, astronauts like Glenn, Grissom, Young, Gordon, and Slayton have made negative statements about UFOs. Buzz Aldrin is quoted calling UFO conspiracy theories 'a lot of bullshit'.

Bibliographical Notes

• Bibliografin försenad: The Swedish UFO Bibliography is delayed and expected in March-April.
• Dubbelnummer: Due to the bibliography work, the September and December issues have been combined into this double issue (No. 11).
• Dags för ny årsavgift!: A payment card for the 1978 AFU membership fee is included, with the minimum fee raised to 30 kronor due to increased postal costs.

Book Reviews and Features

• Fragment från England...: This section explores mysterious sites in England, including Stonehenge and Glastonbury. It touches upon the mystery of Stonehenge's construction and a local legend about a group disappearing in a cave system near Glastonbury.

• FANTASTISK VERKLIGHET? (Review of Boris Jungkvist's book): Anders Liljegren reviews Boris Jungkvist's book, which he finds to be a collection of Swedish UFO observations and a strong advocate for the ET hypothesis. Liljegren criticizes the book for its lack of rigorous sourcing and its one-sided approach, arguing that a more objective and evidence-based approach is needed for UFO research to gain scientific acceptance. He notes that the book largely ignores alternative explanations and focuses heavily on the extraterrestrial hypothesis.

• GUDARNA ÅTERVÄNDER (Review of Brad Steiger's book): Håkan Blomqvist reviews Brad Steiger's 'Gods of Aquarius and The Transformation of Man'. The review highlights Steiger's new line of thought, which moves beyond traditional UFO discussions to explore fortean phenomena and parapsychology. Steiger suggests a symbolic relationship between humanity and UFO intelligences, and discusses experiences with 'devas' and other entities, linking them to a broader evolution of consciousness. The review notes that Steiger's work is well-referenced and presents a complex picture of phenomena that science has often ignored.

• DÄNIKEN ÄR OVETENSKAPLIG! (Review of Willy Wegner's book): Willy Wegner's book 'Däniken i søgelyset' is reviewed by Anders Liljegren. Wegner's work critically analyzes Erich von Däniken's theories, presenting more scientifically grounded explanations for the phenomena Däniken cites. Liljegren agrees with Wegner's assessment that Däniken's books are unscientific, often exaggerating and distorting facts, and failing to adhere to basic research principles. The review warns against the speculative thinking promoted by Däniken and his followers, while acknowledging that alternative archaeology and ancient traditions warrant serious study.

• UFO-Sverige: The review of Jungkvist's book notes that UFO-Sverige was omitted, which the author regrets, hoping it won't strain relations between Swedish UFO organizations.

• SALIGA ÄRO DE SOM SE, MEN ÄNDA TVIVLA: This section discusses the growing interest in fortean phenomena and the blurring lines between ufology and fortean studies. It reviews 'Phenomena' by John Michell and Robert J.M. Rickard, which covers a wide range of fortean events and proposes that nature possesses active forces that science has overlooked. The review emphasizes the importance of studying these phenomena objectively.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO claims, particularly those involving astronauts, and the broader field of fortean phenomena. There is a strong emphasis on skepticism and the need for rigorous, evidence-based research. The editorial stance appears to favor a rational, critical approach to UFOlogy, debunking sensationalist claims while acknowledging the complexity of unexplained phenomena. The magazine promotes a scientific methodology, urging researchers to avoid preconceived notions and to focus on verifiable data. There is also an underlying theme of the evolution of human consciousness and its potential connection to paranormal and fortean events.

This issue of UFO magazine, dated 1978, is primarily focused on exploring the connections between UFO phenomena, animal mutilations, folklore, and other paranormal occurrences. It presents a wide range of articles and book reviews, delving into historical accounts and contemporary reports to offer a comprehensive look at these mysterious subjects.

Book Reviews (NYTT PÅ BOKFRONTEN)

The magazine begins with an extensive list of recent book releases related to UFOs and the paranormal:

• Nancy Arrowsmith & George Moore's 'A field guide to the little people': Covers 80 types of 'little people', from small green men to hairy humanoids.
• Charles Berlitz's 'Without a trace': Discusses the Bermuda Triangle.
• Jean-Claude Bourret's 'The crack in the universe': Features spontaneous combustion in human beings.
• Michael Harvey's 'UFO:s the American Scene': A collection of American UFO reports from 1976.
• Hayden Hewes & Brad Steiger's 'UFO Missionaries Extraordinary': A study of Herb Applewhite and Bonnie Lee Trousdale Nattles, who led an apocalyptic UFO cult in the USA.
• Donald Menzel & Ernest Taves' 'The UFO Enigma': Offers a definitive explanation of UFO phenomena, attributing them to meteorological and optical events.
• John Magor's 'Our UFO visitors': A book about UFO visitors.
• Len Ortzen's 'Strange stories of UFOs': A general book on UFOs.
• Scott Rogo's 'The haunted universe': Explores the psychic component of UFO and forteana experiences.
• Berthold Schwarz's 'UFO contactee Stella Lansing': Discusses possible medical implications of a contactee's experiences, including thought photography.
• Billie Sea's 'Yes! Mountains': An ufologist's autobiography, including many psychic experiences.
• Frederick W. Smith's 'Cattle Mutilations: The unthinkable Truth': An apocalyptic interpretation of mysterious events in Colorado, involving animal mutilations and unknown helicopters.
• Warren Smith's 'UFO Treck Zebra': Covers contact cases, MIB (Men in Black), and the CIA.
• Roger Stanway & Jenny Randles' 'UFO Investigation: a field investigators handbook': A practical guide for UFO investigation.
• Brad Steiger's 'Mysteries of time and space': Explores archaeological mysteries, forteana, UFOs, and psychic phenomena.
• Roy Stenman's 'Visitors from Outer Space': An introductory book for UFO enthusiasts.
• Leonard Stringfield's 'Situation red: the UFO siege': A general overview of UFOs.
• David Tansley's 'Omens of awareness': Covers UFOs, ethereal forces, ESP, and occultism.

New Literature at AFU's Library (Selection)

This section lists additional books available in the AFU library:

• Douglas Baker's 'The Occult Significance of UFOs'.
• Loren E. Gross's works: 'Charles Fort, the Fortean Society & unidentified flying objects', 'The mystery of the ghost rockets', and 'The UFO Wave of 1896'.
• Boris Jungkvist's 'UFO - en fantastisk verklighet': Mentioned for review in this issue.
• Brad Steiger's 'Gods of Aquarius': Also mentioned for review.

A special thanks is given to Boris Jungkvist for donating books and materials to the library, and to Köpings UFO-Förening and Bertil Lundberg for cassette tapes.

Old Conceptions (GAMLA FÖRESTÄLLNINGAR)

This article by Håkan Blomqvist discusses how many cultural expressions and beliefs tend to reappear cyclically. He applies this to ufology, suggesting that folklore, UFOs, and the occult intersect. He notes that while some ufologists shy away from these connections, a deeper understanding requires embracing the unknown.

Jacques Vallée is quoted from 'The Edge of Reality', emphasizing the need for imagination and courage to explore the boundaries of known reality.

Who Kills and Mutilates Livestock?

The article highlights the increasing reports of mysteriously killed and mutilated livestock, a phenomenon that gained prominence in Colorado in 1967 with the 'Snippy case'. These cases often involve animals being drained of blood and vital organs removed with surgical precision. Similar incidents have been reported across the USA and internationally. The precision of the mutilations is compared to a humanoid encounter in Bolivia in 1968, where a creature used a tube-like instrument to kill sheep and llamas, removing digestive organs.

Puerto Rico Incidents

Between February and July 1975, Puerto Rico experienced numerous cases of animal mutilation and UFO sightings. Approximately 300 animals were killed and mutilated, with vital organs removed and no blood. In some instances, hairy, unknown creatures were seen fleeing the scene. A notable observation by Orlando Franceschi described a creature about 1.30m tall with ape-like features.

The New Bigfoot Wave

The article connects Bigfoot, Yeti, and Sasquatch sightings worldwide, noting that these creatures are often described as hairy, foul-smelling, and emitting shrieking sounds. Biologist Ivan T. Sanderson's research is mentioned, highlighting the commonalities in these reports.

Old Conceptions (Continued)

John Keel's work is cited, suggesting that UFO entities might be a new category of biological beings or temporary materializations. These entities are often described as having phosphorescent eyes and are reported in areas with UFO activity. Don Worley's research at CUFOS in 1976 is mentioned, focusing on the connection between Bigfoot, UFOs, and psychic phenomena. Several cases from Pennsylvania are detailed:

• Beaver County, Pennsylvania: Two girls saw a creature and a luminous globe, followed by a UFO sighting.
• Penn, Pennsylvania: Three women observed a metallic, rectangular object land, and saw three ape-like creatures emerge.
• Fayette County, Pennsylvania: A bright light was seen hovering over a forest, and an ape-like creature was encountered.

These cases often involve creatures that disappear without leaving traces, even when shot at.

Roachdale, Indiana Incident

In August 1972, a strange creature was heard and seen near the Randy and Lou Rogers' farm in Roachdale, Indiana. The creature was described as large, hairy, and ape-like, emitting a foul odor. It moved without making a sound, even through grass. The family's chickens were also found mutilated.

Berserkers (Bärsärkagång)

A well-documented incident from October 1973 near Greensburg, Pennsylvania, involved a luminous sphere and the appearance of two tall, hairy beings. Stephen, who encountered them, experienced disorientation and exhibited animalistic behavior. The beings emitted a sulfurous smell before disappearing.

MISSA INTE! (Don't Miss!)

An announcement for UFO-Sveriges national meeting in Stockholm on March 18, 1978, featuring various speakers and a discussion on UFOs.

Old Conceptions (Continued)

Berthold Schwartz's examination of the Stephen case suggests that the experience might have involved a state of altered consciousness. The article then explores the concept of werewolves and their potential connection to UFO phenomena, questioning if ancient beliefs about lycanthropy could be related to modern UFO encounters.

Folk Beliefs (Folktroväsen)

The article posits that phenomena like werewolves and vampires, described in folklore, are now being reinterpreted through the lens of UFOs and 'space beings' conducting experiments. It emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between the phenomenon itself and its interpretation.

Old Conceptions (Continued)

This section delves into two fundamental beliefs applicable to paranormal phenomena: the ability to transform into or project oneself into an animal form, and the ability to mentally create beings, such as animal-like entities, that can perform actions. The author notes that historical accounts of these phenomena are often a mix of superstition and genuine paranormal events.

Shapeshifting (Hamnskifte)

Ancient myths, including Norse sagas, describe the concept of 'hamnskifte' (shapeshifting), where a soul could leave the body and take on an animal form. The writings of Augustine are also cited, describing how a person's 'phantom' could leave the body during sleep or trance and appear to others in an animal form.

Magical Creation of Beings

Another belief involves the magical creation of beings, often in animal form, to perform tasks. Witches were believed to have 'familiars' in animal shapes that required energy or blood to exist. Jewish mysticism speaks of golems, creatures created through magic. In Swedish folklore, 'spiritus' are described as small beings that require daily doses of saliva or blood to survive.

Some Occult Sources (Några ockulta källor)

• Eliphas Levi: Discusses the astral body and how thoughts can shape it, suggesting that werewolves might be the astral bodies of humans whose primitive instincts are manifested as wolves.
• Dion Fortune: Recounts an experience where she accidentally created a werewolf-like form out of anger and a desire for revenge, which then manifested physically.

Old Conceptions (Continued)

The article continues by discussing the creation of 'elemental beings' or 'thought-forms' in various mystery schools. Alexandra David-Neel's account of learning to create a 'tulpa' (a materialized thought-form) from Tibetan monks is presented. Initially a cheerful monk, the tulpa eventually became demonic, requiring months to be destroyed.

The creation of a werewolf-form is presented as a potential outcome if such a creation were not destroyed, possibly leading to reports of werewolves.

Philip the Poltergeist

Parapsychologists in Toronto researched the creation of a 'thought-form' named Philip. They were able to communicate with it and it could even cause physical phenomena like moving tables. The article notes that while creating a thought-form is possible, materializing it requires specific individuals, often mediums, who can emit ectoplasm.

John Keel's commentary on manifestation processes suggests that these beings require an energy source, such as a living organism, to take physical form. The article speculates that this might explain the disappearance of animals in flap areas, suggesting their biological energy is used to create these forms. The necessity of blood for this process is also mentioned.

An example of an artificially created guardian spirit is given from a 1400s house in Kent, England. This creature, with a bear's body and wolf's head, was created by refugees and continued to wander the area even after they left.

Conclusions (Slutsatser)

The author concludes that contemporary UFO entities share significant similarities with beings described in folklore and other belief systems, albeit with a different frame of reference. These 'energy beings' are seen as part of the UFO phenomenon but do not explain all aspects. The article suggests that these beings have always been present on Earth and calls for further understanding of their nature, consciousness, and manifestation processes. While not all such entities are negative, the author highlights the recent increase in reports.

References

A comprehensive list of references is provided, citing various books, articles, and publications related to UFOs, animal mutilations, folklore, and paranormal phenomena.

Jimmy Carter and UFOs (SÅG CARTER EN UFO?)

This section critically examines Jimmy Carter's reported UFO sighting from October 1969 in Leary, Georgia. UFO researcher Robert Sheaffer points out several inaccuracies in Carter's account, including the date of the sighting and the identification of Venus as a possible explanation. Sheaffer found only one witness who vaguely recalled the event, and even he did not consider it unusual. The article suggests that Carter's report, despite his status as a future US president, contains factual errors that cast doubt on his reliability as a UFO witness.

RAY PALMER DÖD

This is an obituary for Raymond A. Palmer, a prominent figure in early ufology and science fiction, who passed away in August 1977 at the age of 67. Palmer was known for his controversial theories, including the idea that flying saucers originated from within the Earth, which he promoted in his UFO publication 'Flying Saucers'. He is remembered as a dynamic and controversial force in the UFO movement.

SWEDISH UFOLOGY (SVENSK UFOLOGI)

This section provides updates on various UFO organizations and activities in Sweden:

• Gävle UFO-Förening: Described as a group that meets regularly for UFO vigils, with members who are amateur astronomers.
• Kalmar-Ölands UFO-Förening: Organized a summer camp and plans similar events in the future. They publish a member magazine called UFO-Nytt.
• UFO-Center i Olofström: Conducts night vigils and has sought funding for equipment, but has been denied.
• Stig Aggestad: Organized an information evening in Fogdö, featuring a UFO film and a panel discussion.
• Enköpings UFO-Förening: A 50-member organization that conducts UFO study circles and shows UFO-Sverige films.
• Carl-Axel Jonzon: Gave a talk on UFOs to the Ödeshögs Rotary Club.
• Nyköpings UFO-Förening: Exhibited a UFO display and showed paintings of UFO motifs.
• Kjell Jonsson: Presented UFOs and images at a meeting organized by ABF and the Deaf Association.
• Henry Svensson: Gave lectures on UFOs in Uddevalla, Lerum, and at Vara folkhögskola, and is involved in organizing study circles.
• Leif Norr: Showed the UFO-Sverige film to students, emphasizing a more critical approach to UFO reports.
• Sala Amatörförening för tvärvetenskap (SAT): A 60-member organization that publishes a magazine called Saturnus.
• Storebro UFO-klubb: Formed in October, with Sven-Olof Hultkvist as chairman.
• Tommy Nilsson: Inspired by a UFO sighting, he plans to start a UFO group in Växjö.
• UFO-Sveriges fältforskarkurs: A training course for ufologists held in Västmanland, emphasizing the relationship between UFO groups and the public.
• Umeå UFO-Förening: A newly formed group with Anders Edholm and Bertil Östlund as contact persons.
• Ludvika UFO-Förening: Conducted several information meetings and visited various locations.
• Lysekilsavdelningen av Sveriges Kyrkliga Studieförbund (SKS): Is starting a study circle on UFOs.
• Kramfors: A potential new UFO organization is being formed, with a growing interest in UFO literature at the local library.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the interconnectedness of UFO phenomena with folklore, ancient myths, and paranormal experiences. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to consider unconventional explanations and to investigate these mysteries with an open mind, even if it means challenging established beliefs. The magazine actively promotes UFO research and awareness within Sweden by highlighting the activities of various UFO organizations.

This issue of UFO-Information, dated 1977, serves as a comprehensive digest of UFO-related news, articles, and reviews from various Swedish newspapers and magazines. It details the activities of UFO organizations, discusses prominent UFO cases, and critically examines literature and media portrayals of the phenomenon.

Local UFO Activities and Organizations

The issue highlights the presence and activities of several UFO organizations across Sweden. The Carlskrona Rymdsällskap, founded in 1975, has 38 members primarily focused on serious astronomy, with UFO material collected for their SF section. Zoran Maksic has been giving lectures and showing UFO-Sweden films in schools around Norrköping. The UFO-Center in Jönköping, established in 1971, is still active, with its chairman Erik Wahlström interviewed in Smålands Folkblad, noting a decrease in public interest but continued meetings for a core group. Jan-Ove Sundberg, a freelance journalist and fortean, has been researching and writing about various 'oddities' and is working on a short film about UFOs with the Action filmproduction association, aiming to film UFO observations during winter. Staffan Stigsjöö is featured in a large article in Aftonbladet. The Sandvikens IFO-Förening, with 12 members averaging 14 years old, believes UFOs are identified as craft from alien planets. The Mockfjärds Ungdoms UFO-klubb received a grant from the Gagnef municipality. Thorvald Berthelsen informed about 100 interested individuals in Västervik, with the program arranged by Medborgarskolan.

Media Coverage and Debates

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to summarizing and reviewing articles from Swedish press concerning UFOs. Göran Bengtsson is noted for his debate contributions, critiquing Stigsjöö and Magnusson's views, particularly regarding 'alien device' explanations. The magazine references an article series on UFOs in Nordv. Skånes Tidningar, compiled by Ove Torgny, covering various cases and including an interview with Ebba Emricsson who advocates a spiritual UFO interpretation. Lars Wahlberg, a stockholmer interested in UFOs, shares his personal impressions of meeting Uri Geller in an interview with Susanne Hobohm. The issue also mentions the first international conference on UFOs, with reports from TT-Reuter about a conference in Chicago organized by Fate magazine, featuring participants like Allen Hynek and James Harder. Reviews of books by Stigsjöö and Ryan, by K.E.Almered, suggest that UFO discussions often belong more to science fiction. Arne Karsberg writes about the 30th anniversary of the 'flying saucer' phenomenon.

Book Reviews and Critiques

Several books on UFOs are reviewed. Buzz Aldrin's memoirs, 'Return to Earth', are discussed, where he recounts discovering a UFO during the Apollo 11 mission and the decision not to report it. Erick Karlsson's article in Smålandsposten explores the possibility of life and communication in space. T.N. critiques Carl-Axel Jonzon's editorial in UFO-Inf. nr. 4/77. Jens Busch interviews Thorvald Berthelsen and Sture Wickerts for an article in Ny Teknik about thirty years of flying saucers. Roll Sörensen reviews Staffan Stigsjöö's book, describing it as 'shaking and frightening' but essential reading. Boris Jungkvist's book is presented as a 'battle cry against indifferent authorities and the media', though considered somewhat naive in its praise of Swedish UFO theorists. The review of Jungkvist's book in Sölvesb.-Tidn. by Calle Mathisson praises it as the best UFO work written in Swedish, highlighting its clear explanations and sourcing. However, Owe Lewitzki debates Boris Jungkvist, questioning his claims of UFOs being extraterrestrial craft. Torgny Jonsson reviews books by Sagan, Stigsjöö, and Jungkvist, expressing skepticism about the most improbable explanations.

Specific Sightings and Incidents

The issue touches upon specific sightings and incidents. The 'Skillingaryds-tefatet' is mentioned in relation to a GICOFF investigation, with the photographer declining to comment. An article by Douglas Murray in Teknik för Alla discusses the development of a new type of airship by Malcolm Wren that resembles a 'flying saucer'. The magazine also reports on a sighting in Trehörningsjö involving three grey beings. Kurt Nilsson's observation of humanoid figures on October 18th is followed up in Örnsköldsviks Allehanda.

Official UFO Studies

Official UFO investigations are also covered. The French GEPAN project, established in May 1977 by C.N.E.S. and headed by Dr. Claude Poher, is detailed as an official French UFO investigation project. NASA is also conducting preliminary studies, with President Carter's interest in UFOs prompting the agency to form a panel to review events since the 1969 Condon report. Dave Williamsson, described as 'chief of special projects', expresses skepticism about finding new measurable evidence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the ongoing investigation and reporting of UFO phenomena in Sweden and internationally. There's a clear emphasis on distinguishing serious research from sensationalism, with several articles and reviews critically examining the methodology and claims of UFO researchers and authors. The magazine appears to provide a platform for diverse viewpoints, including those of believers, skeptics, and those advocating for more scientific rigor. The editorial stance seems to encourage critical thinking and a balanced approach to the UFO topic, acknowledging the public's fascination while urging for evidence-based analysis. The coverage of official investigations by French and US agencies suggests an interest in the governmental and scientific aspects of UFO research.