AFU Newsletter - No 35 - 1990

Magazine Overview

This issue of the AFU Newsletter, titled "afu newsletter" and identified as Nr 35, covers the period from January to December 1990. Published by Archives for UFO Research (AFU) in Norrköping, Sweden, it features an ISSN of 0283-6378. The primary focus of this issue is a critical examination of UFO phenomena, particularly concerning alleged contactee experiences and the scientific validity of UFO research groups.

A Careful Look Behind the Headlines

The cover story, "My terrifying battle with a UFO kidnap team" by Ray Finch, details the claims of Ante Jonsson, a Swedish man who alleges he narrowly escaped abduction by aliens in February 1990. Jonsson describes encountering a large UFO while driving, being subjected to psychoanalytical tests, and ultimately fleeing from the creatures. The article notes that Jonsson was found to be a credible witness with no mental aberrations.

Project URD: A "Scientific Cult"

This section delves into Project URD, an initiative led by Sten Lindgren, Bjarne Håkansson, and Bertil Kuhlemann. The project aimed to find a statistical, "scientific" answer to the UFO problem by computerizing reports. However, the article critically assesses URD, labeling it a "scientific cult" and highlighting its origins within the Intergalactical Federation (IGF), a group described as having cult-like criteria. The project's failure to gain traction with true scientists is attributed to the backgrounds of its core members, who were steeped in ET/contactee beliefs and occultism.

The Ufological Path Between Science and Cultism

The article traces the evolution of Sten Lindgren's involvement, from his early days in the IGF to his later attempts to establish Project URD. It notes that URD received little response from authorities, leading to Sten's frustration. The project's pseudoscientific nature is emphasized, with the author expressing surprise that the international UFO community might not be aware of the cultist backgrounds of its leaders.

Sten Lindgren and the Brothers from Space

This section, authored by Håkan Blomqvist, explores Sten Lindgren's background and his claims of contact with "space people." Lindgren, who became interested in UFOs in 1957, founded the Intergalactical Federation (IGF) in 1965. The article discusses his alleged contact with a woman named BEA, described as an extraterrestrial agent, and his belief in "benevolent brothers from space." Blomqvist expresses skepticism about Lindgren's claims, suggesting they stem from a "mythworld" and "psychological compensation."

The Contact at Nävsjön

Lindgren's primary contact experience is detailed, occurring in September 1965 at a lake called Nävsjön. He claims to have encountered a bell-shaped craft and beings from space. However, the article notes that witness statements do not tally, and the author interprets Sten's and Daniel Glantz's accounts as projections of their fantasies onto an ordinary searchlight, influenced by a "cultish atmosphere."

Daniel Glantz - Contactee

Daniel Glantz is presented as one of Sten Lindgren's main channels to the "brothers." His claims, dating back to 1964, are described as "simply fantasies" and are linked to intelligence agencies and a belief that Jesus is the "boss man for the space brothers."

Roger: Agent for the Brothers

Roger, a Swedish businessman, is discussed as someone Sten Lindgren believed to be a "spaceman or an agent for the brothers." However, Roger denies these claims, stating that Sten projected his fantasies onto him and that he merely acted as a "friendly consultant" trying to guide Sten toward a more scientific approach.

Flying Saucers and Theosophy

This section highlights the connection between the UFO movement and theosophy. It notes that Sten Lindgren, for a period, left ufology for traditional occultism, leading a theosophical/esoteric course. The article posits that much of the UFO myth is a variation of theosophical traditions, referencing George Adamski's "Flying saucers have landed" and its link to theosophy. The initiation of the Swedish UFO movement by active theosophists is also mentioned.

Religious Science Fiction

The author reflects on the "bizarre turns and wild stories" from the IGF period, recounting a fruitless search for a crashed saucer. The article concludes that the IGF is a "pathetic example of the result of accepting claims from mystics and occultists," leading idealistic teenagers into a "psychologically unhealthy atmosphere" that scorches science and reason.

Other Sections

AFU Newsletter Information

The newsletter provides details about the Archives for UFO Research (AFU), its mission, and its library. It encourages contributions and exchanges with other journals and newsletters.

Notes and References

The issue includes extensive notes and references, citing various books, articles, and interviews that support the claims and analyses presented within the newsletter.

Svenska tefatsfantaster klagar över brist på tro

A small article in Swedish discusses "Swedish saucer fanatics complaining about lack of belief," quoting Sten Lindgren on the authorities' handling of UFO reports and a lab technician from FOA stating that while reports are investigated, no concrete evidence of saucers has been found.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO claims, the distinction between genuine scientific inquiry and cult-like belief systems, and the influence of theosophy and "new age" ideologies on the UFO movement. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical of many UFO claims, particularly those rooted in mysticism and occultism, advocating for a scientific and rational approach while acknowledging the potential for genuine, albeit rare, UFO phenomena. The issue emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and warns against the dangers of psychological projection and unhealthy group dynamics within the UFO community.

This issue of AFU Newsletter, number 35, published in 1991, focuses on the enigmatic case of Ante Jonsson, a Swedish man from Tingsryd, who claims to have had extensive contact with aliens and travels to other planets since February 1984. The newsletter, written by Clas Svahn, delves into the details of Jonsson's experiences, the investigation by AFU, and related UFO phenomena.

Ante Jonsson: Dreams or Alien Contacts?

The lead article, "Dreams or alien contacts?" by Clas Svahn, details the extraordinary experiences of Ante Jonsson. For over six years, Jonsson has reportedly had contacts with aliens, producing hundreds of pages of notes about alleged travels to other planets, prophecies, and warnings. The initial encounter on February 3, 1984, described as an ordinary UFO observation, soon escalated into something that profoundly changed his life. Jonsson himself is unsure if these experiences are dreams or reality, a question that also troubles the investigators.

The article highlights the difficulty in summarizing Jonsson's case due to its ongoing nature. While AFU is in the early stages of investigation, it is evident that something real triggers these events, including journeys to other planets and altered states of consciousness. The central question remains whether these experiences are 'real' in a physical sense or a manifestation of a complex inner trauma.

Several Swedish newspapers and local radio stations have covered Jonsson's case, and he co-authored a book about his experiences in 1989. Despite this publicity, the encounters remain mysterious.

Jonsson's experiences are not confined to sleep; he often feels a new contact approaching days in advance and drives to a nearby lake where these encounters typically occur. The article suggests he may be entering an altered state or 'dreamland' to interact with his contacts.

Initial Experience

The article reconstructs the events of February 3, 1984, based on Jonsson's account, a police report, and a hospital case record. While driving home on a snowy, slippery road, Jonsson saw a small figure and a large, black object hovering over a meadow. He stopped to investigate the figure but couldn't see it. He then drove home to get his camera, intending to photograph the craft.

Upon returning to the site around 1:30 a.m., the craft was gone. As he drove on, the object reappeared, blocking the road. His car skidded and stopped, its headlights illuminating the craft. Attempting to flee, his car got stuck in the snow.

Struggle with Creatures

Jonsson recounts being grabbed by a creature when he tried to exit his car and screaming for help. He was caught again while trying to run, lost consciousness, and remembers being dragged towards the craft and seeing a truck pass by. He awoke in his car, cold and wet, with a stinging sensation in his hands, and later found himself at the hospital in Växjö.

A police patrol, alerted by a mysterious call from someone claiming to be 'Bengt Johansson', arrived at the scene. The caller reported seeing a car with its lights off and a black object hovering over it. However, neither 'Bengt Johansson' nor AFU researchers have ever found this individual, suggesting the name was faked.

"Fingers bent like claws"

When the police arrived, the object had vanished. Jonsson was found frightened and confused, trembling, with his fingers clenched like claws, indicating he had held onto something tightly, likely the steering wheel. The doctor at the hospital diagnosed him with severe shock and hyperventilation, noting the cramps in his hands. He was given a sedative and transferred to a psychiatric ward.

The article validates the medical and police reports, concluding that Jonsson experienced something frightening, and simulating the medical signs would be nearly impossible.

Abduction Story

Jonsson asserts he was abducted and taken aboard the craft. This information came from his contact, Jenny, in 1986. He was told that he was in such shock that he was carried aboard the 'submarine-like vehicle', and the aliens feared for his life. He was placed in a pressure chamber to stabilize him.

According to Jenny, the crew also took samples of his hair and skin for analysis of his lifespan and physical condition. He was then returned to his car, narrowly avoiding discovery by another driver.

Enigmatic Information

Even the initial, tangible parts of the story, like the police report, present inconsistencies. The two policemen reportedly altered their story over time, mentioning a lenscase outside the car and claiming the car was locked when left, details Jonsson disputes. The police also interrogated Jonsson extensively the day he left the hospital, possibly due to the proximity of a sensitive military installation. They confiscated his camera's file for a period.

New Contacts

Weeks after the first encounter, Jonsson began to feel a voice calling him. On March 6, 1984, he met a man in a black coat who floated down the street. This figure led him to a meadow where a black craft hovered. He felt himself floating in the air before returning to his garden.

On April 26, 1984, he was taken aboard a craft, describing the interior as a large crystal ball. He encountered a being estimated at 160 cm tall, with a strange physical structure, long arms, and a face with two black eyes, a flat nose, and thick lips. This being gave him a fluid to drink and displayed text on a board, indicating communication via magnetic thoughts.

First UFO Ride?

This experience is considered his first 'UFO ride'. The being's description is detailed, noting the lack of ears or chin and the hair covering most of his face.

Love Affair

Jenny is central to all of Jonsson's contacts. He describes her as beautiful, wise, and easy to like, sometimes difficult to distinguish from a past earthly love. This 'dream-world' is driven by his feelings for Jenny.

Secret to His Family

Jonsson initially kept his experiences secret from his family, but eventually, they learned about them, especially after the book's publication. His wife is reluctant to know the full details, and they rarely discuss it. Jonsson acknowledges her difficult position, living with someone who leads a 'double life'.

Therapy

Writing about his youth and past memories serves as a form of therapy for Jonsson, helping him confront hidden traumas. He feels Jenny is facilitating this process, bringing things to the surface that he hadn't been aware of.

Artifacts

Jonsson has collected artifacts, including a smooth stone found after a trip to the 'summer lake' and a greyish, milk-like drink given to him in a plastic bottle. The stone's origin is uncertain, possibly placed there by Jenny. The drink was meant to prepare him for a longer journey, and the bottle was later destroyed.

Underwater Base

Jonsson claims to have visited an underwater base with large doors in a cliff, numbered with symbols resembling astrology signs. He has also seen signs on ships that he could not decipher.

New York Episode

On October 20, 1986, Jonsson was taken to a big city, presumed to be New York, where he met a girl and had a meal. He experienced a colored cloud filling his room, followed by finding himself on a park bench. He returned home seven hours later and received a postcard from New York with an unreadable message.

Hidden Youth Trauma?

In a recent episode, while watching an old video, Jonsson felt he was in a place he didn't recognize, looking like himself at age 15. This experience connected him to his boyhood home and suggests a hidden trauma from his teenage years.

Another Swedish Landing Report

This section reports on a case from the London newspaper 'Sunday Sport' concerning Dan Johnson, a truck driver from Tingsryd, Sweden. Johnson claimed to have encountered a large UFO (250 ft. wide, 30 ft. high) hovering above the road. He reported aliens emerging from the craft, described as man-sized with bodies like tree bark and heads like onions. He was pulled from his car and struggled until the approach of a timber lorry caused the aliens to leave.

Johnson underwent lie-detector tests administered by Swedish military authorities, which he passed. Hospital spokesmen stated his story appeared to be true.

Swedish Circles Project

On May 5, 1991, the "Project Study Circle" was formed by UFO-Sweden, FOA, and SMHI to investigate newly formed crop circles in Sweden during the summer of 1991. The project aims to gather narratives, document similar sightings, conduct field investigations, study related phenomena like light, compare international reports, and analyze material to construct explanatory models.

A 14-meter wide circle found at Hjortkvarn near Örebro in April 1972 is mentioned, where a starlike luminous object was observed. The inner circle was swept counter-clockwise, and the outer swirl in the opposite direction.

Book Review: Encyclopedia á la Spencer

Clas Svahn reviews John Spencer's "The UFO Encyclopedia," a 340-page compilation of UFO phenomenon facts. While acknowledging Spencer's reputation, Svahn finds the book disappointing. He criticizes its structure, comparing it to a game of 'Alfapet' due to the need to know obscure words and search through numerous entries for information. Key cases like the Roswell crash and Rendlesham Forest landing are buried under obscure names without adequate cross-references.

Svahn notes the absence of prominent UFO researchers like Charles Fort, Carl Sagan, and John Keel. He argues that the book's focus on lesser-known witnesses makes it difficult to use. The review also points out inaccuracies, such as the misrepresentation of the McMinnville photo and the 'Ampleforth manuscript' myth.

Svahn concludes that the encyclopedia is not recommended due to its errors, lack of sources, and limited information, making it an impractical tool for researchers.

AFU Annual Report

The report details AFU's activities in 1990. The foundation, supported by 44 private citizens and groups, had a board consisting of Clas Svahn (chairman), Hakan Blomqvist (vice chairman), Sven-Olov Svensson (treasurer), and Anders Liljegren (secretary). The library collection expanded with 76 new titles, bringing the total to 1,682. Donations to the book fund amounted to 2,990 SEK. The report mentions AFU's growing interest in UFO-Sweden and its role in transforming the organization towards a more research-oriented approach. It also lists several investigations initiated by the AFU team, including the 1952 Mora photo case and the 1985 Ante Jonsson abduction/contactee case. The AFU archives hold approximately 35 meters of UFO journals and magazines.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of UFO experiences, particularly abductions and contacts, and the challenges in verifying their reality. The AFU Newsletter adopts a research-oriented stance, aiming to push ufology towards a more discriminating and scientific attitude. The editorial team actively engages in investigations, archival work, and the publication of findings, seeking to establish a Scandinavian-international forum for UFO research. The issue emphasizes the importance of careful investigation, open-mindedness, and the critical evaluation of evidence, as seen in both the detailed case study of Ante Jonsson and the book review.

This issue of UFO-Aktuellt, identified as issue number 21 and dated 1990, focuses on the archival activities and financial report of the AFU (presumably a UFO research organization). The content details the organization's efforts in collecting and managing critical articles, UFO case reports, and media clippings, while also presenting a financial overview for the year 1990.

Critical Articles and Media Analysis

The AFU team has been actively writing critical articles and reviews over the past few years, particularly in 1990, and publishing them in "UFO-Aktuellt", "Sōkaren", and "AFU Newsletter". These contributions were often critical of cultist and ET enthusiast actions in Swedish media. Chairman Clas Svahn has taken an editorial stance in Sweden's largest circulation morning newspaper in Stockholm, publishing critical-skeptical articles to provide balance. AFU's policy emphasizes establishing clear demarcation lines against both cultists and extreme skeptics.

Clipping Files

The organization maintains a subscription with AB Pressurklipp, a Stockholm news clipping agency. In 1989, AFU received 490 articles, and the current year (presumably 1990, based on the economy report) yielded 402 articles from Swedish media. Since 1970, AFU has accumulated over 12,000 clippings, filling approximately 5 running meters of file space. A new value-added tax imposed on clipping services from January 1, 1991, is expected to increase expenses by 11-12,000 SEK for that year.

Report Files

The UFO-Sweden report center regularly delivers reports to the AFU archives. These archives now contain about six running meters of reports from various Swedish sources, including UFO-Sweden's investigative files, newspaper and magazine clippings, files from the disbanded Gothenburg investigation team (GICOFF), and private correspondence. Notably, AFU has obtained copies of substantial non-secret defense files on UFOs dating back to 1946, following a contact developed by Chairman Clas Svahn with FOA's official UFO spokesman, Arne Gjärdman. This is expected to lead to continued deliveries of case reports investigated by defense authorities.

Computerization of Archives

AFU is considering ideas for computerizing its report archives. This initiative may involve a collaborative project with other Scandinavian groups, utilizing IBM-compatible PC hardware and dBase software. This effort would build upon the SCANCAT project, initiated by AFU in 1985 to catalog the 1946 ghost rocket wave. The earlier Project U.R.D. (1973-1985), which used an IBM mainframe system, was discontinued, and its files are believed to be lost.

Private and Organizational Files

AFU also holds approximately 15 running meters of private and organizational files. These include correspondence, protocols, photos, illustrations, and miscellaneous clipping files. Key sources for these files are the GICOFF group, the Parthenon UFO publishing firm, researcher K. Gösta Rehn, and the UFO-Sweden organization. The Parthenon files are noted for containing previously unpublished data on the American-international contactee movement. The Rehn files offer unique insights from correspondence with "scientific ufologists" like Coral Lorenzen. International researchers are permitted to access these files, subject to donor consent and AFU's operational constraints. The library and archives are open daily, with a standard copier available for a nominal fee.

Economy Report 1990

The AFU Economy Report for 1990 details income and expenses. Total income was 32,772.23 SEK, primarily from support fees (3,190 SEK), sales of second-hand books and magazines (1,354 SEK), and donations (13,169.85 SEK). Other income sources included library loan fees, UFO-dokument sales, and AFU clipping service. Total expenses amounted to 28,557.85 SEK. The largest expense categories were the AFU clipping service (8,753 SEK), rent for the library and archives (3,452 SEK), and books purchased (3,094.49 SEK). Other significant expenses included administration, postage, subscriptions, and computer equipment.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the meticulous documentation and archiving of UFO-related information, the critical analysis of media coverage, and the organization's efforts to maintain a balanced and objective perspective. AFU positions itself as a bridge between sensationalism and outright dismissal, aiming to establish clear boundaries against what it perceives as cultist or overly skeptical viewpoints. The organization emphasizes its role in preserving historical data, including official defense files and private research, and making it accessible to serious researchers, while also managing its operational and financial aspects.