GICOFF-Information - 1971 No 2

Magazine Overview

Title: G.I.C.O.F. INFORMATION
Issue: Nr 2
Date: March - April 1971
Publisher: Göteborgs Informations Center för Oidentifierade Flygande Föremål (GICOFF)
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 428503-7
Price: 30 SEK (membership fee)

This issue of GICOFF INFORMATION, a membership publication, focuses on UFO activity and reports from late 1970 and early 1971. The cover prominently features a 'Finnish saucer photo' and highlights the magazine's commitment to providing information on unidentified flying objects.

Editorial and Content Overview

The editorial, titled 'Förord' (Foreword), notes a surge in UFO activity in Finland and mentions a visit from APRO's Finnish representative, Kalevi Hietanen, with hopes for expanded cooperation with Finnish UFO groups. The editors acknowledge the lack of 'sensational' Swedish cases but express hope that local media will not mock reports of a 'little man' phenomenon in Norrland. The issue includes illustrations by member Rickard Lidblom. The editors also comment on a conference in Motala, attended by representative Sven-Olof Fredriksson, which they hope will foster greater cooperation and clearer goals within the UFO community. A correction is made regarding a previous report in FSR (Flying Saucer Review), clarifying that the radioactive substance found near Anten was Cesium, not Cerium. The editors also explain that the varying layout of the magazine is due to its introductory phase and ongoing efforts to improve its 'lay-out' for attractiveness.

Featured Articles and Reports

Finnish UFO Activity

The cover story highlights a 'Finnish saucer photo' and the issue delves into UFO events in Finland. The editorial section notes that Finland seems to be experiencing significant UFO activity.

Swedish UFO Cases

Magnesium-colored UFO over Falkenberg: On the night of February 28, 1970, around 00:15-02:45, about ten people in Falkenberg witnessed a bright, magnesium-colored, pulsating light object. The object was described as self-luminous with distinct contours and moved erratically, appearing to stop and increase in brightness during acceleration. It was observed at an estimated altitude of 40 degrees above the horizon. The witnesses included Mikael Fernström, Klas Dejby, and Mikael's parents, Allan and Rut Fernström. Mikael, using binoculars, described the object as dome-shaped with three hemispheres underneath, featuring bright spots on the upper part and a darker middle section. Allan Fernström saw it from the side, noting two hemispheres and antenna-like protrusions. The object's brightness was estimated at magnitude -10, and its size was about 1/5 to 1/6 of the moon's diameter. The observation lasted for 20-30 minutes. The incident was followed by strong TV interference reported by the Fernström family and neighbors.

Egg-shaped UFO over Strömnäs, Ramsele: On December 6, 1970, at 05:00, a witness, Erik Nilsson, observed a strong, reddish-yellow, egg-shaped object hovering just above the ground near a mountain. The object was described as being 4-5 times larger than the moon's visible diameter and luminous. It remained visible for 5-6 minutes before disappearing. Nilsson described the object's contours as sharp, its body as solid and self-luminous, with brightness comparable to the moon. The estimated distance was 6-7 km. The editors characterize this as an interesting UFO observation due to its proximity to the ground and significant size.

Strong metallic luminous UFO over F3 (Malmslätt): In January 1971, Flottiljpolisen (Air Force Police) Kjedeman reported an observation from the F3 airbase in Malmslätt. He and several colleagues saw a strongly metallic, luminous object moving slowly westward, parallel to the ground, at a very high altitude (estimated above 6000 meters due to cirrus clouds). The observation lasted about 45 minutes, and the object emitted a constant, strong metallic light. A meteorologist consulted by the magazine found a natural explanation unlikely due to the steady light. The report notes that weather balloons are released from Torslanda at 06:30, with reflectors, and fall to the ground by 09:30, making them unlikely explanations for this sighting.

Danish UFO Case

UFO-stopped police car in Denmark: This section details an incident that occurred on August 13, 1970, near Haderslev, Denmark. Policeman Evald Mårup was driving his patrol car when the engine and lights suddenly stopped, and the car rolled to the side of the road. He observed a strong, vertical light beam descending from above. His attempts to restart the car and use the radio failed. The light beam intensified, causing the car's interior temperature to rise to +30-40°C and blinding the occupants. Mårup took photographs of the phenomenon. He described the light beam as blue-white, with intensity comparable to the sun, and its strength varied. He observed the beam retracting into a large, grey 'hull' hovering above the car. The 'hull' had downward-facing hemispheres on each side and disappeared upwards without a sound. The car's body was very warm afterward. The incident occurred between 22:50 and 22:55. Mårup reported the event, which led to interrogations by police and the air force, and interviews with the press, radio, and TV. The article notes that similar reports of vehicles being disabled by UFOs have occurred over the past 10 years, suggesting electromagnetic field interference. Major B Helden of the Danish Air Command suggested the light might be reflections or static electricity, while Flygmajoren H C Petersen of Natobasen Vandel considered it a spaceship from another planet, noting that such craft, described as 'Adamski'-category, have been registered frequently in Danish airspace. Doctor Tord Hall of Uppsala University commented that the story strongly resembles other saucer reports.

Other Reports

Mysterious light in Århus: A witness, Fr K Mikkelsen, saw a fast-moving, round, brightly lit object resembling a streetlamp.

Mysterious object over Silkeborg: A man cycling in Silkeborg saw a luminous object at about 100 meters altitude, accompanied by a faint sound.

Luminous object over Kattegat: Three people in a boat observed a luminous object over the Kattegat.

Mysterious aerial phenomenon at Villshärad: Fru Lisa Hansen and Kantor Gustav Lindal reported seeing a yellow-red light moving like a large star, growing brighter and stronger as it approached, then stopping, moving again, and finally disappearing as a faint point of light. They were certain it was not a star, and its movement and departure were notable.

Supporting Articles

Brief on Radiosounding and Weather Balloons: This article explains the process of radiosounding and the use of weather balloons by the Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI). It details the equipment, measurement parameters (pressure, temperature, humidity), and the altitudes reached by different types of balloons. The purpose is to provide a factual basis for understanding potential misidentifications of weather phenomena as UFOs.

Composition of the Moon's Surface: This section presents data on the chemical and mineralogical composition of the moon's surface, based on findings from the Surveyor, Luna, and Apollo missions. It compares lunar surface composition to that of Earth's crust, hydrosphere, and atmosphere, noting significant similarities.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a stance of serious investigation into UFO phenomena, presenting witness testimonies and attempting to find explanations, while also acknowledging cases that defy easy natural explanations. The editors emphasize the importance of documentation and cooperation within the UFO community. There is a clear effort to distinguish between credible sightings and potential misidentifications, such as weather balloons. The magazine aims to be an informative resource for its members, encouraging them to submit their own observations and suggestions. The overall tone is one of open-minded inquiry combined with a critical approach to evidence.

Title: Finland ufo-nytt
Issue: 21
Volume: 1971
Publisher: UFO-Jakobstad
Country: Finland
Language: Swedish
Cover Headline: UFO landade i snö. (UFO landed in snow.)

This issue of Finland ufo-nytt from 1971 delves into various UFO sightings and related phenomena, alongside a scientific analysis of lunar samples. The magazine presents witness testimonies, investigative reports, and scientific data, aiming to shed light on unexplained aerial phenomena and extraterrestrial possibilities.

Lunar Sample Analysis

The issue begins with a detailed analysis of lunar samples, comparing their chemical composition to Earth's basalt. The findings indicate that lunar rocks, primarily from Apollo 11, Apollo 12, and Luna 16 missions, share similarities with terrestrial basalt but exhibit notable differences. Key minerals identified in lunar rocks include pyroxene, olivine, plagioclase, and ilmenite. The analysis highlights a higher concentration of iron, chromium, and titanium, and lower levels of sodium and potassium in lunar samples compared to Earth's crust. Notably, the lunar samples showed no traces of water, and had low carbon and nitrogen content, with no evidence of organic life. The density of the investigated samples was around 3.5 g/cm³, slightly higher than the estimated average density of the Moon (3.3–3.4 g/cm³), and significantly higher than Earth's crust (2.8 g/cm³).

UFO Sightings in Finland

The magazine features several detailed accounts of UFO sightings across Finland:

UFO Landed in Snow (Saapunki, Kuusamo)

On January 3, 1971, a bright fireball was observed by a dozen people in Saapunki, moving slowly for about a kilometer and descending onto a farmyard. Witness Eetu Pätsi described an unusually strong light near his home, which approached rapidly. Martta and Mauno Talala also witnessed a powerful light that illuminated their surroundings. Later, children discovered a large imprint in the snow, measuring 5.7 x 2.3 meters, which had frozen into ice and had a greenish hue. Samples of the snow from the imprint were found to be bluish-gray, contrasting with normal snow samples.

UFO Landing in Ylistaro

On February 5, 1971, a UFO reportedly landed near an abandoned farm in Ylistaro. Witnesses reported a sulfur smell, variously colored snow, and exhaust residue. Tracks, described as large and resembling an elephant's, led from the landing site. Matti Kettula observed a circular area where the snow had melted completely, approximately 1.5 meters in diameter, with exhaust residue and discolored snow. Vilho Rajamäki and Lauri Takaneva found mysterious tracks leading to a farm, ending in a 1-meter diameter pit containing yellow-red residue and dust.

Red-Yellow Ball in Lapua

On the evening of January 21, 1971, Eesa Jussila witnessed a red-yellow ball land in the direction of Ylistaro, emitting alternating yellow and red flashing lights before disappearing.

UFO over Perho

On March 23, 1971, approximately twenty people observed a bright, barrel-shaped light phenomenon in the sky over Pehro for several hours. The phenomenon was first noticed by two youths on a moped. Witnesses described the object as 3-5 meters wide, moving at high speed, and emitting rainbow colors. Some witnesses reported seeing windows on the object that emitted green, yellow, red, and white light. The object was described as being controlled and not drifting like a balloon.

UFOs over Uleåborg

On March 23, 1971, Fru Lena Kartimo and her three children reported seeing seven intensely shining, disc-shaped objects land on the ice between Hailuoto and the mainland near Uleåborg. The objects then lifted off and disappeared into space. The objects were close enough for the witnesses to discern window-like structures. When the objects landed again on the ice, their lights dimmed, and the headlights of the Kartimo family's car also weakened.

Photographed UFOs in Finland

Ingeniör Ahti Kativeri from Uleåborg reportedly photographed a flying saucer over Särkivaara on March 23, 1971. The photographs captured the object making a circular path in the sky.

Radioactivity and UFOs (Réunion)

An unusual observation was made on the island of Réunion on July 31, 1968, by Luce Fontaine. While gathering grass in a clearing, Fontaine observed an oval cabin-like object, approximately 4-5 meters in diameter and 2.5 meters high, hovering 4-5 meters above the ground. Two figures, described as about 90 cm tall and wearing outfits similar to Michelin Man advertisements, were seen behind a blue screen. The figures appeared to be extraterrestrial beings. After the figures turned away, a bright light engulfed the area, and the object disappeared. Subsequent investigations by the police and a geological survey revealed traces of radioactivity in the area, and the witness's clothing was also found to be radioactive.

Misinterpretations of UFO Sightings

The issue includes an article discussing common misinterpretations of UFO sightings, drawing on the work of Jacques Vallee. Meteors, satellites, and the planet Venus are highlighted as frequent sources of confusion. Vallee emphasizes the importance of observation duration (at least one minute for meteors) and the subjective nature of human perception when describing unfamiliar phenomena. The article stresses the need to differentiate between genuine sightings and misinterpretations, referring to it as separating "the signal from the noise."

Alien Encounter in Brazil

A report from Goia, Brazil, describes an encounter by Inacio de Souza and his wife Maria on August 13, 1967. They observed a disc-shaped object, about 35 meters in diameter, on their property's landing strip. Three beings were seen near the object. Inacio, fearing the object, fired his rifle at one of the beings. A green light from the craft struck him, causing him to fall. The beings then returned to their craft, which ascended vertically with a loud humming sound.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of UFO phenomena, the scientific analysis of physical evidence (like lunar samples), and the critical examination of witness testimonies. The magazine appears to adopt a stance of open-minded inquiry, presenting both unexplained events and potential rational explanations or misinterpretations. The editorial emphasis is on gathering information, reporting on investigations, and encouraging further research into these mysterious occurrences. The inclusion of scientific data alongside anecdotal accounts suggests an effort to bridge the gap between empirical evidence and the more speculative aspects of UFO research.

This issue of *Phénoménes Spatiaux*, published by G.E.P.A. in March 1969, is a Swedish-language magazine focusing on UFO phenomena. The cover prominently features the headline "9 personer strålskadade av UFO." (9 people radiation-damaged by UFOs), and a secondary headline about a "Mystiska möte med UFO:s!" (Mysterious encounter with UFOs!) related to the Apollo 12 mission.

Case of Inacio in Brazil

The magazine details a case involving a man named Inacio in Brazil. After Inacio claimed to have shot men who were attempting to abduct his family, he was hospitalized. Doctors in Goiánia found a circular burn mark on his body. Initially, the diagnosis was related to eating 'bad grass.' However, later investigations revealed Inacio had leukemia and was given only 60 days to live. He reportedly asked the doctor to forget what he had seen and heard, and his case was attributed to leukemia, with the doctor stating he had heard nothing and knew nothing, prioritizing his reputation. Inacio's condition worsened, with yellow spots on his skin and severe pain. He died on October 11, 1967, and his belongings were burned as per his wishes.

Venezuelan Incident

An account from Warner Cowgill, U.S. Consul in Maracaibo, Venezuela, dated November 7, 1886, describes a terrifying event experienced by a family of nine. During a stormy night, they were awakened by a loud buzzing sound and a bright, blinding light that illuminated their home. The family, fearing the end of the world, prayed. The light was not hot, but smoke developed, and a strange smell was present. The next morning, large black spots appeared on their skin, and they experienced pain starting on the ninth day, with skin peeling off and developing into open sores. Hair fell out on the side of their heads that was down, and this side of the body was most severely affected. Remarkably, the house itself was undamaged, with all doors and windows closed. The trees around the house also showed no damage until the ninth day, when they suddenly withered, coinciding with the development of the sores on the inhabitants. The article notes a similar sensitivity to electricity observed in both animal and plant life around the same time.

Apollo 12 Encounter

On Friday evening, November 14, 1969, observatories across Europe detected two strong, unknown lights near the path of the Apollo 12 spacecraft. Through powerful telescopes, one object appeared to follow the capsule, while the other was in front. Both objects blinked rapidly. On Saturday, November 15, astronauts Pete Conrad, Dick Gordon, and Allan Bean reported to Houston Control that they had indeed sighted two "Bogeys." An excerpt from a conversation between Apollo 12 and Houston Control on November 15, 1969, around 10:25 AM CST, is included. Apollo astronauts described an object as very bright and rotating at 1.5 revolutions per second. Later, one of the "sla panels" was observed to leave the area at high speed, estimated at more than one foot per second. During the Apollo 12 mission, strange sounds, not originating from Earth or the capsule, were heard on several occasions, leading to a comment from mission control that the astronauts "must talk to someone unknown now."

Cassius Clay and UFOs

Many residents of New York, including boxer Cassius Clay, reportedly observed an unidentified flying object. A police spokesperson stated that an officer on patrol had witnessed a UFO. Clay, a journalist, and several trainers also saw a bright object east of Manhattan in Central Park, described as a light beam larger than a star. Police from Laguardia Airport also reported the sighting. Clay stated he had seen them multiple times and that "The government treats them as if it were a secret." He claimed to see them every morning while running. Astronomer Franklin Branley suggested the object could have been the planet Venus, noting that Venus appears very bright at that time and that its apparent movement could be due to atmospheric refraction.

U. Thant Interview

During an international congress in Ottawa, Canada, from August 23-27, 1970, J. V. Jacobi had the opportunity to interview U. Thant, then UN Secretary-General. Jacobi asked if it was true that UFO researchers worldwide knew that he was well-informed about extraterrestrial spacecraft incursions to Earth, and that extraterrestrial pilots had contact with governments who possessed all the facts and evidence but kept it secret. U. Thant nodded in agreement, stating, "There are things that I cannot or am not allowed to talk about."

Flying Saucer Photograph

The magazine reports on a photograph of a flying saucer published by the Tokyo newspaper "Sankai." A 16-year-old student had photographed a saucer in northern Honshu in April 1970. The photograph, sent to the Tokyo observatory for examination, shows two stacked plates clearly outlined against hills. The distance to the saucer was estimated at approximately 500 meters. The saucer disappeared into the clouds. Subsequent investigations by the newspaper confirmed that no other registered flying objects were in the area at that time.

Book Reviews and Listings

The issue includes a section listing "Bra UFO-böcker för den seriöse UFO-läsaren" (Good UFO books for the serious UFO reader) from EDISTA, Kuhlemann & Co. This section lists various books on UFOs, including titles by Otto Binder, Edward U. Condon, John G. Fuller, Coral and Jim Lorenzen, Edward J. Ruppelt, and Jacques Vallee, along with their prices. It also lists thicker A4-format publications such as "UFO:s and Related Subjects: An Annotated Bibliography" and "Hearings before the committee on science and astronautics U.S. House of representatives." The publisher states they have over a hundred other books on UFO topics available.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of *Phénoménes Spatiaux* strongly emphasizes the reality and impact of UFO phenomena, presenting multiple accounts of sightings and encounters. The magazine highlights the physical and psychological effects on witnesses, including alleged radiation damage and medical conditions like leukemia. There is a recurring theme of potential government secrecy and a desire to suppress information about UFOs, as suggested by the U. Thant interview and the comments attributed to the doctor in the Inacio case. The inclusion of a photograph and detailed incident reports suggests an editorial stance that supports the serious investigation and reporting of UFO events.