AFU Newsletter - No 30 - 1987

Magazine Overview

Title: AFU Newsletter
Issue: 30
Date: January-December 1987
Publisher: Archives for UFO Research (AFU), Norrköping, Sweden
ISSN: 0283-6378

This issue of the AFU Newsletter, published by the Archives for UFO Research (AFU), provides a comprehensive look at ufology in Sweden and beyond, with a strong emphasis on historical cases, skeptical analysis, and book reviews. The content is primarily in Swedish, with some English sections and references.

Eldsjälar (Soulmates)

This section, authored by Anders Liljegren, discusses the perceived decline in Swedish ufology, attributing it to a lack of interest from the general public and the rise of other global concerns like wars and environmental issues. Liljegren reflects on the history of the UFO movement in Sweden, highlighting the crucial role of dedicated individuals, or 'elders,' who have shaped the field over the decades. He names several key figures such as Edith Nicolaisen, Ivan Troëng, Bertil Kuhleman, K. Gösta Rehn, Boris Jungkvist, Carl-Axel Jonzon, Thorvald Berthelsen, Sven-Olof Fredrikson, and Sven Magnusson, acknowledging their significant contributions and influence. The author notes that the era of passionate, emotionally driven UFO movements of the 1950s and 60s has passed, replaced by a need for critical thinking and healthy skepticism. Liljegren argues that the idea of a 'mass UFO movement' is outdated, and that ufology, like any research, requires a passion for truth, objectivity, and thorough investigation, best conducted in smaller, focused groups.

Spökraketerna 1946 (Ghost Rockets 1946)

This extensive article by Anders Liljegren critically examines Erland Sandqvist's study of the 1946 'ghost rocket' phenomenon. Liljegren meticulously analyzes Sandqvist's catalog of 113 cases, often refuting the author's interpretations by cross-referencing with other databases and historical records. He frequently identifies sightings as meteors, suggesting that Sandqvist, like many other ufologists, overlooks basic astronomical knowledge and the psychological aspects of witness testimony. Liljegren points out inconsistencies in Sandqvist's methodology, such as the lack of precise observation dates in the catalog, which hinders verification. He debunks several specific cases, including F1 (likely a meteor), F2, F3, F5, and F7 (all attributed to a single meteor event), and F14-F19, F21-F22, F24-F27, and F67 (identified as a daytime meteor event). While acknowledging that some cases from 1946 are more difficult to explain (e.g., F44, F66, F69, F87), Liljegren criticizes Sandqvist for drawing overly broad conclusions from limited data and for not consulting a wider range of Swedish newspapers or interviewing witnesses directly. He concludes that Sandqvist's book, while presenting itself as a factual account, is filled with errors, misinterpretations, and a lack of critical analysis, ultimately failing to provide a convincing case for the UFO origin of the 1946 phenomena.

Book Reviews

"UFO crash at Aztec" by William Steinman

Reviewed by Sven-Olov Svensson, this book details the alleged crash of a flying saucer in Aztec, New Mexico, on May 25, 1948, with 16 deceased alien occupants. Steinman, a metallurgist, became interested in UFOs after reading Frank Scully's book. The review notes that while the military has consistently denied the event, Steinman has visited the site and interviewed one witness who saw a UFO touch a mountain. The book reportedly includes details about the MJ12 group's involvement in handling the craft and bodies and suppressing information. Svensson finds the book's extensive length (625 pages) excessive, suggesting it could have been much shorter if focused solely on the Aztec incident. He also points out that the book includes many unverified rumors and cases that have been debunked. Despite some interesting interviews, including one with Dr. Robert Sarbacher, Svensson remains unconvinced about the Aztec crash, suggesting it might have been a U.S. Air Force test vehicle. The book's quality is criticized for its poor-quality photos of alleged alien bodies and the inclusion of redacted documents, which Steinman implies were censored by authorities. Overall, Svensson finds the book interesting but not entirely convincing.

"Cosmic Continents" by W. Raymond Drake

Reviewed by Anders Liljegren, this book by English UFO historian W. Raymond Drake explores ancient texts, myths, and historical documents for evidence of UFO observations and extraterrestrial influence. Drake's work is described as occupying a niche between Erich von Däniken and ufology. While some of Drake's earlier works have been translated into Swedish, they have not been published. Liljegren admits he has not read Drake's books due to their dense nature and the controversial sources Drake cites, such as Richard S. Shaver, Ray Palmer, and Helena Blavatsky. The book was published in India after failing to find a publisher in England. Liljegren notes that Drake's books are heavily footnoted but the sources are often from occult literature, making them difficult to engage with. The review is more of an impression than a full critique, with Liljegren classifying the book as a curiosity and offering it for loan from the AFU library.

"Mosjõenrapporten" by Jan S. Krogh & Kolbjörn Stenōdegård

This report, produced by the Norwegian skeptical group NIVFO, details a close encounter case from Øydalen near Mosjien, Norway, on August 20, 1954. The report includes 20 press clippings from 1954. Two sisters, Edith Jacobsen and Asta Solvang, reported seeing a dark-haired man who communicated non-verbally and then entered a disk-shaped craft that ascended and disappeared. The review by Anders Liljegren criticizes NIVFO for not conducting further investigation, such as re-interviewing the sisters 30 years later, despite claiming four years of research. Liljegren questions what happened to the sisters and if they faced similar reactions to those described in the Swedish 'Doestenshindelsen' case, where witnesses were disbelieved. He highlights the recurring theme of how UFO witnesses are treated by society, often becoming outcasts. The review questions whether reporting such an event leads to public shame.

"Norskt bortförande?" (Norwegian Abduction?)

This section discusses a letter received by NIVFO from a person who, after reading Budd Hopkins' book "Missing Time" in Norwegian translation, recalled childhood events that might be repressed memories of abduction. The letter is presented with commentary by an Oslo psychologist. The individual did not wish to undergo hypnosis, leaving the potential memories unverified. The commentary notes the anonymity of the letter writer and the lack of further investigation.

Nyheter från AFU:s horisont (News from AFU's Horizon)

Statliga klipparkiv (State Clipping Archives): AFU is incorporating extensive clipping archives from the Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Defense Staff's press archives into its research. These archives contain valuable retroactive information on UFO observations from earlier decades, including material on the 1930s 'spökflygare' (ghost flyers) and 1946 'spökraketer' (ghost rockets).

Håkan Blomqvist: The chairman of the AFU foundation, Håkan Blomqvist, has returned to the library world as a school librarian. He occasionally works at the Norrköping municipal library and is available to give talks on AFU and UFO literature to interested colleagues and librarians in central Sweden for a reasonable fee. He also continues to contribute to the magazine 'Sökaren,' promising revelations about the Swedish UFO movement and cases.

Sven-Olov Svensson: Sven-Olov Svensson, who has been AFU's librarian and archivist since 1980, is taking a sabbatical year starting April 6, 1987, to dedicate more time to AFU's internal work without pay. He has already achieved significant results, including organizing and archiving the Parthenon collection and working on projects to complete AFU's clipping collection and compile contact cases from around the world. He is available at the AFU office daily and can be reached by phone. Loan requests require a minimum annual donation to AFU.

FOA-arkivet (FOA Archive): AFU is copying the report material from the Swedish Defence Research Agency (FOA), section 263. They have copied approximately 750 pages of defense report material from 1946-1951 and intend to continue this work as resources allow. The UFO reporting for the Swedish defense forces was handled by the Defence Staff's Air and Air Defence Division (Fst/FL) until 1961. The archive contains information on air surveillance, the Stril system, and reports on 'flying phenomena.' The material from 1965 onwards, transferred to FOA 2, contains about 900 reports. AFU plans to store copies of the FOA archive for research purposes and make them available for purchase.

Bibliotekstjänsts lektörer (Library Service Reviewers): Bibliotekstjänst in Lund, which provides book sales and distribution to Swedish libraries, employs reviewers who assess new books. AFU's Clas Svahn has become a reviewer for UFO, forteana, science fiction, and astronomy. His reviews, limited to 120 words, are published in the 'sanbindningslistan' catalog cards, influencing library purchasing decisions. The newsletter expresses hope that Svahn's critical reviews will help improve the quality of UFO literature available in libraries.

Avdelningen "platsannonser" (Classified Ads Section): AFU is seeking a meticulous individual with UFO knowledge and free time to help edit and format larger text materials (10-150 pages) for potential publication. Skills in Swedish, editing, and typing are a plus. They are also looking for additional researchers to join their core group of four (Anders, Håkan, Clas, and Sven-Olof) to investigate UFO cases and phenomena objectively. AFU aims for long-term, accurate, and objective historical writing on UFOs and their treatment. They are particularly seeking someone in the Stockholm area to assist with archival research and someone willing to offer their home for meetings a few times a year.

Andersen Bogservice: This Danish service center for UFO literature is run by Per Andersen, who offers antiquarian books, imports, and a catalog for those seeking specific titles. Andersen Bogservice publishes catalogs of Scandinavian and non-Scandinavian UFO literature, with the latest listing 443 titles. Contact information is provided.

Övriga böcker (Other Books)

"Communion" by Whitley Strieber: Published in April 1987, this book details Strieber's family's abduction experience in 1985. It gained significant attention in the US, appearing on bestseller lists and talk shows. The abduction theme even influenced the TV series "Dynasty."

Jean Sider's study on 1897 airships: AFU's French correspondent, Jean Sider, published a study in August 1987 on the 1897 American airships in French. Sider has been researching these 'ghost ships,' precursors to modern UFOs, for years. Due to a lack of interest from French publishers, he has self-published the study, which is now available to AFU.

"Above Top Secret" by Timothy Good: This book by English violinist and ufologist Timothy Good claims that governments worldwide have successfully kept UFO data secret at a level above top secret. The book is described as a comprehensive look at the potential threat posed by extraterrestrial phenomena.

Jenny Randles' "The UFO Conspiracy: The First Forty Years": Another book on the theme of UFO secrecy.

Willy Wegner's upcoming book: Expected in autumn 1987, titled "Myths and Miracles."

Hilary Evans' upcoming book: Titled "Gods, Spirits, Cosmic Guardians."

"Conclusion: Unknown!" by Lawrence Fawcett and Barry Greenwood: This book is expected in 1988.

Norsk Skeptiker-ufologi (Norwegian Skeptic Ufology)

Norsk Skeptiker-tidskrift (Norwegian Skeptic Magazine): This section reviews the Norwegian skeptical organization NIVFO (Norsk Institutt for Vetenskapelig Forskning og Opplysning), led by former ufologists Kolbjörn Stenidegård and Jan S. Krogh. NIVFO is described as a sister organization to Swedish and American skeptical groups, though with a less academic tone and a greater focus on UFO material. The author, Anders Liljegren, expresses concern over NIVFO's recent direction, recalling an incident where he was pressured not to cooperate with organizations involved in the Hessdalen Project. Liljegren criticizes NIVFO's confrontational approach, comparing it to aggressive tactics used by some US skeptical groups. He notes that NIVFO's publication, "NIVFO Bulletin," is generally well-produced and covers topics like parapsychology, astrology, and creationism, often translating and commenting on foreign UFO articles. While acknowledging the bulletin's value in providing critical perspectives, Liljegren finds some of its commentary condescending and bordering on personal attacks. He advocates for a more balanced approach, preferring to remain neutral rather than adopting extreme skeptical stances.

Systrarna Jacobsen, 1954 (The Jacobsen Sisters, 1954): This report from NIVFO details a close encounter case from August 20, 1954, in Øydalen, Norway. Two sisters, Edith Jacobsen and Asta Solvang, reported seeing a dark-haired man who communicated non-verbally and then entered a disk-shaped craft. The case gained significant media attention, but the report is criticized for its lack of follow-up investigation by NIVFO.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The AFU Newsletter consistently promotes a critical and objective approach to ufology. It emphasizes thorough research, archival work, and the importance of distinguishing between factual evidence and speculation or misinterpretation. The publication frequently analyzes historical UFO cases, often providing skeptical explanations grounded in science and psychology, while also acknowledging genuinely unexplained phenomena. The newsletter highlights the challenges faced by UFO researchers, including the need for funding, access to archives, and the importance of meticulous documentation. There is a clear stance against sensationalism and a preference for evidence-based investigation. The editorial stance also appears to be one of promoting open dialogue and collaboration among researchers, while maintaining a critical distance from organizations that employ aggressive or unscientific tactics. The treatment of witnesses and the societal reaction to UFO reports are recurring themes, often viewed critically.

Title: AFU Newsletter
Issue: 30
Date: Noterad (likely 1988 based on content)
Publisher: AFU (Archives for UFO Research)
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of the AFU Newsletter delves into various facets of ufology, with a particular focus on Swedish and Scandinavian contributions, literature, and ongoing research.

UFOlogi i sydliga nejder...

The section begins by referencing a letter from Carl-Axel "CAJ" Jonzon, former chairman of UFO-Sweden, expressing disappointment with the current state of ufology. He feels that the passion and dedication he once saw in fellow ufologists has waned, replaced by a more mundane, "calendar-biting" approach. The newsletter then presents a tip for CAJ from Claudine Pinet in Tahiti, French Polynesia. Pinet is part of a group called GALACTEUS, which aims to offer a "total experience" encompassing spiritual, interdimensional, mental, emotional, vital, physical, social, and material aspects. They invite individuals to participate in a pluridimensional adventure and prepare for contact with future civilizations. GALACTEUS also offers assistance to financially isolated individuals experiencing contact.

Ännu en dansk bibliografi

Per Andersen, the data consultant for the Danish UFO organization SUFOI, has also started a bookstore specializing in UFO literature. He has compiled and published a UFO bibliography covering Danish publications from 1950 to 1985. This bibliography includes a chronological overview, ISBN register, title index, and person/subject index, making it the most comprehensive listing of Danish UFO books to date. The publication details are provided: "Bibliografi over dansk UFO-litteratur 1950-1985" by Per Andersen, published by Andersen Bogservice, with price and ordering information.

Årsbok om UFO-litteratur

Kin Möller Hansen, editor-in-chief of UFO-Nyt, has compiled an yearbook on UFO literature from the Western world. This 52-page booklet provides current addresses and references for books, bookstores, associations, and magazines. It includes over a dozen longer book reviews and about twenty shorter mentions. The reviews are sourced from international UFO journals like "Journal fur UFO-forschung," "MUFON UFO Journal," "FSR," and "IUR." The selection of titles ranges from the most serious to the most outlandish, with reviewers often indicating the latter. The publication is titled "UFO-Vision" and is described as a good idea that could continue annually. The reviewer suggests "UFO-Litteratur" or "UFO-Biblioteket" as more fitting names. Publication details are provided for "UFO-Vision. Årbog for ufo-litteratur 1987."

ICUR-kommittén

The International Committee for UFO Research (ICUR) has elected a new board following an international UFO conference in London. Bertil Kuhlemann, who had led ICUR's work for the past four years, has been replaced by Robert Digby from BUFORA (UK). Walter Andrus (MUFON, USA) is the new vice chairman, and Stephen Gamble and John Spencer (both from BUFORA) are the new secretary and treasurer, respectively. ICUR aims to standardize UFO investigations and is developing a manual for this purpose. They are also working on a new classification system intended to replace Allen Hynek's 1973 system. Currently, only a few organizations, including BUFORA, MUFON, and SUFOI, are actively involved with ICUR.

Bra årsbok om UFO

Jenny Randles, a prominent English ufologist, has published a small yearbook for 1985, detailing the state of UFO research in Australia, Denmark, France, Italy, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, England, and the USA. It includes examples of significant cases, a list of books published in 1985, and an address directory. The review notes that the list of best articles from English-language UFO magazines suggests that Swedish ufology is not particularly advanced, as none of the nineteen articles mentioned have been translated into Swedish publications. The publication details for "The UFO World '86" and "International UFO-arbog 1986" are provided.

Para-Nyt

Willy Wegner, editor of the Danish publication "Para-Nyt," is interviewed. Wegner's publishing career has included "Dansk UFO Tidskrift," "Uforalia," "Skeptica," and now "Para-Nyt." The article notes that Wegner, like many "believers in Denmark," has also taken on the role of a skeptic. "Para-Nyt," similar to its predecessor "Skeptica," covers more than just UFOs. The article mentions Wegner's investigation into the case of Cedric Allingham and references articles in "Magonia" and "Fate Magazine." "Para-Nyt" is described as a well-edited, irregularly published booklet. Contact information for "Para-Nyt" is provided.

Bibliotekskatalog

Willy Wegner also operates the "Skeptica-biblioteket" (Skeptica Library). Its 1986 catalog lists 1,531 titles, with the older section focusing on UFOs and newer acquisitions covering a broader range of "off-beat" literature. The article contrasts this with AFU's lending library, suggesting that Wegner's library might be accessible for serious researchers willing to cover postage costs. Publication details for "Katalog '86. Off-beat litteratur og pseudovidenskab i Skeptica-biblioteket" are provided.

Parthenon Inc. - the genesis of Swedish UFO cultism

This extensive article by Håkan Blomqvist details the life and work of Edith C.M. Nicolaisen, the founder and director of Parthenon Inc., a Swedish publishing house dedicated to UFO literature and new age philosophy. Nicolaisen, known as "Nic," was a dedicated historian of UFO matters who worked tirelessly for thirty years. She was instrumental in promoting UFO beliefs in Sweden, particularly among the youth, and her work influenced the formation of numerous local UFO groups. The article describes her early life, her interest in anthroposophy and theosophy, and her pivotal moment in 1954 when she read "Flying Saucers Have Landed" by Leslie/Adanski. This led her to dedicate her life to the UFO cause and establish Parthenon Inc. in 1957. The article recounts the challenges she faced, including a conflict over the translation of George Adanski's "On board the space ships," which nearly bankrupted the company. Despite facing criticism for being a "fanatic" and "slave driver," Nicolaisen's efforts are acknowledged for their significant contribution to the history of Swedish ufology, particularly her collection of UFO material now housed by AFU. The article also touches upon Nicolaisen's belief in the connection between UFOs and the return of Christ, and her views on the origin of UFOs from the etheric dimension.

Contactee controversies

This section reviews two books on UFO contactees: Whitley Strieber's "Communion" and Eduard Meier's case as investigated by Gary Kinder in "Light years."

Whitley Strieber: Communion

The article describes Strieber's frightening encounter with a strange figure in his home, which he initially believed to be a dream. The experience escalated, involving a creature with dark eyes and a downturned mouth. Strieber's account is characterized as astounding and frightening, suggesting that humanity may not be in control of its own destiny. The narrative details his experiences under hypnosis, including being taken aboard a mysterious craft and subjected to a procedure with a strange instrument. Strieber's encounters are presented as distinct from those of other contactees like Adanski, Fry, and Klarer, and are described as "evil and frightening." The article questions whether these beings are truly evil or if they perceive humans as animals, possibly attempting to help. Strieber's own words are quoted, warning that "something else" is a power within us that needs to be understood.

Eduard Meier: Light years

The case of Eduard Meier, a Swiss contactee, is presented through Gary Kinder's investigation in the book "Light years." Meier has produced numerous photographs of his alleged encounters. However, the article highlights concerns about the lack of original negatives and the numerous duplications of his photos, making verification difficult. The article also mentions unusual metal samples that Meier allegedly found, but these are no longer available for analysis. The author notes that Meier has never been caught in the act, and his stories include elements like teleportation and time travel. The conclusion drawn from Kinder's three-year investigation is that "the truth of the Meier contacts will never be known."

Meier's philosophy

Eduard Meier's philosophical thoughts are presented, focusing on issues of societal violence, overpopulation, and rigid systems for marriage and birth control. His ideas, as expressed in documents from his "Senjase Silver Star Center," are described as conflicting with his general wish for a more humane society. The publication details for his booklet "Folter, Todesstrafe und Überbevölkerung" are provided.

"UFO glasnost" in Russia?

The article reports on the official approval of a local Estonian UFO research group, which can now operate more openly as "The Commission for Registration and Analysis of Anomalistic Environmental Phenomena." Furthermore, it announces the publication of the first official Russian-produced UFO book, "Temna voda vo oblatseh...," authored by Vladimir Gakov. This book, which takes a mildly skeptical stance on UFOs, has been printed in a large quantity by "Politizdat." This development is seen as a sign of a more open Soviet society.

A "pioneer story"?

This section discusses the "gray zone" between documented UFO reports and science fiction, referring to "pioneer stories" that are strange but untrue. The article mentions the Swedish publisher Edista, headed by Bertil Kuhlemann, who has published the Swedish translation of "The Seoky God" by William George Emerson. The book tells the story of Olaf Jansen's journey to the North Pole and his discovery of a strange inner world. The reviewer expresses concern about the lack of criticism and seriousness from Edista's publisher, who is also the former chairman of ICUR. The article also criticizes Kuhlemann's perceived detachment from the history and current status of Swedish ufology.

The Hessdalen controversy

The Hessdalen lights, strange phenomena observed in Hessdalen, Norway, since 1981, are discussed. The article references Leif Havik's book, "UFO-fenomenet" kan det umulige vaere mulig?" which documents his research and experiences. Havik's work is divided into four parts: description of the area, phenomenon, witnesses, and controversy; technical reports from "Project Hessdalen"; similar phenomena in other parts of the world; and photo documentation. The 1984 technical report is available in English. The article notes that the Norwegian language might be a barrier for Swedish readers. Havik spent considerable time investigating the lights, using various equipment and collaborating with Scandinavian colleagues. The research expeditions, financed by the researchers themselves, are highlighted as unprecedented in UFO history. Havik's critique of skeptical theories and his defense of the Hessdalen population are mentioned. The article also touches upon the Norwegian NIVFO group's report, which concluded that the Hessdalen lights are plasma phenomena (ball lightning) under optical inversion conditions. The reviewer recommends Havik's book for its down-to-earth approach and focus on the phenomena.

The sceptics and Hessdalen

This brief section mentions that the Norwegian NIVFO group, affiliated with the American CSICOP, produced an English report in 1984 on the Hessdalen phenomena. Based on meteorological observations, they concluded that the lights were plasma phenomena (ball lightning) seen under conditions of optical inversions. The article deems this report unconvincing and notes that the regular existence of ball lightning in polar weather remains to be proven.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of AFU Newsletter consistently highlights the importance of documentation, research, and the critical evaluation of UFO phenomena and related literature. There's a strong emphasis on cataloging and preserving information, as seen in the reviews of bibliographies and historical accounts. The newsletter also addresses the controversies surrounding contactees, distinguishing between serious investigation and cult-like beliefs. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous, evidence-based research while acknowledging the vast and often puzzling nature of UFO phenomena. The inclusion of international reports, particularly from Scandinavia and the Soviet Union, suggests a broad scope of interest. The newsletter also seems to promote a more open and less dogmatic approach to ufology, encouraging critical thinking and a willingness to explore diverse perspectives.

Title: AFU Newsletter
Issue: 30
Issue Date: mid-June 1987
Publisher: AFU
Country: Sweden
Language: English

This issue of the AFU Newsletter focuses on the passing of Eugen Semitjov, a prominent Swedish space journalist, artist, and author, and also reviews the 1986 UFO report from UFO-Sweden.

Eugen Semitjov in Memoriam

The newsletter dedicates a significant portion to Eugen Semitjov, who died in mid-June 1987 at the age of 64. Born in 1923, Semitjov was the son of Russian science fiction author Vladimir Semitjov. From 1942 to 1957, he published SF cartoons featuring the character "Allan Kämpe." He then became a pioneering space journalist in Sweden, developing an international network within space communities in both the U.S. and the Soviet Union.

In 1952, Semitjov published "Fyra filarutor" (Four squares of film), a youth book novel about schoolboys who capture a flying saucer on film. The story involves a mysterious group attempting to steal the camera and film, and the boys alert the Swedish Defence Staff. The base for the saucer was depicted as being carved into a Swedish mountain, and the narrative suggests these saucers might be secret constructions of a superpower.

Semitjov was also present when news broke of a notable Swedish UFO case on December 18, 1953. This involved a commercial plane crew nearly colliding with a polished saucer. Initially, the prevailing theory in Sweden was that these were Soviet missiles. Years later, a spokesman for the Defence Research Institute informed Semitjov that the sighting was likely caused by a weather balloon launched by two adventure-seeking military servicemen.

Despite his primary focus on "earthly" space technology, Semitjov published at least three dozen major articles on UFOs and related topics, such as ancient astronauts, primarily in the Swedish weekly *Allers* between 1959 and 1975. He conducted extensive research, visiting the Pentagon, reviewing Blue Book files, and interviewing prominent figures like J. Allen Hynek, Jacques Vallée, Coral and Jim Lorenzen, Stuart Nixon, Carl Sagan, and Philip Klass. He also interviewed astronomer Clyde Tombaugh about his UFO sighting.

Semitjov's interviews revealed that Tombaugh had not seen a "giant cigar" as described in some books but had confirmed seeing a formation of 6-8 points of light. Due to his fluency in Russian, Semitjov also interviewed Russian UFO and space researchers. He was noted for being photographed with American astronauts, some of whom he considered friends.

The article notes that while Semitjov was a sharp intellect and a good technical reporter, his insight into UFOs was considered shallow. His articles were often accompanied by imaginative drawings. In 1959, he reluctantly provided the cover design for one of the first Swedish UFO books, Max B. Miller's "Flying saucers – fact or fiction."

His UFO articles were compiled into a book titled "De otroliga tefaten" (The unbelievable saucers). In 1972, Semitjov received the Swedish "Great Price of Journalism," though not primarily for his UFO work. This compilation was the first Swedish book to adopt a skeptical stance on the UFO issue.

Reputable industrialist Gösta Carlsson shared his saucer experience with Semitjov, recounting a sighting in 1946 of a landed, closed disc with a crew near Angelhole, an incident he had kept private until 1971.

Semitjov's open position, which balanced ufological and skeptical viewpoints, drew criticism from the ufological community, who felt he should be more outspoken. However, Semitjov never possessed a deep, investigative interest in the subject, unlike American skeptics such as Klass, Sheaffer, and Oberg. Notably, Semitjov's book is recommended by Sven-Ove Hansson, CSICOP's Swedish representative, who authored a "Book orientation" leaflet distributed in Swedish community libraries.

14 Genuine Swedish UFOs in 1986

UFO-Sweden's report centre has published its second yearly report, detailing UFO cases from 1986. The association manages a central report centre at Eskilstuna, coordinated by Ulf Ekstedt and Stig Aggestad, which aims to coordinate local groups and field investigators. During 1986, 275 Swedish UFO cases were reported. Of these, 94.9% were identified as ordinary phenomena, including Russian rocket launches, airplanes, meteors, planets, and stars. After thorough analysis, only 14 cases were classified as "genuine UFOs." These 14 cases are detailed in the report, which is unfortunately only available in Swedish.

Hessdalen Phenomenon

The article briefly mentions the Hessdalen lights, describing them as occurring on hot summer days after violent thunderstorms. The phenomenon is noted for happening at temperatures near zero (Centigrade) and below, without any apparent thunder or lightning. The KIVFO explanation is presented as replacing one unknown with another, suggesting a lack of definitive understanding.

Other Mentions

The issue includes a reference to Jan S. Krogh's report on the Hessdalen phenomenon, published in 1984. It also features a photograph of Eugen Semitjov interviewing astronaut Owen Garriott at the Houston Space Center.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of AFU Newsletter demonstrates a balanced approach, honoring the contributions of Eugen Semitjov while also acknowledging his critical stance on UFOs. The review of the UFO-Sweden report highlights a commitment to rigorous analysis and the identification of genuine cases, distinguishing them from misidentifications. The brief mention of the Hessdalen phenomenon suggests an ongoing interest in unexplained aerial phenomena, albeit with a cautious acknowledgment of the lack of conclusive explanations. The editorial stance appears to favor investigative journalism and a skeptical yet open-minded approach to UFO research.