GICOFF-Information - 1971 No 6

Magazine Overview

Title: GICOFF-INFORMATION
Issue: Nr 6
Date: November - December 1971
Publisher: Göteborgs Informations Center för Oidentifierade Flygande Föremål (GICOFF)
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of GICOFF-INFORMATION, the member magazine for the Göteborgs Informations Center for Unidentified Flying Objects, is dated November-December 1971. The cover prominently features a photograph of mysterious circles in a forest clearing, with a headline directing readers to page 15. The magazine's title is displayed in a distinctive stylized font.

Editorial and Contents

The editorial section, titled "FORORD" (Foreword), apologizes for the delay in publishing issue number 6/1971, attributing it to internal reorganisation, the holiday season, and increased workload. A new editorial team has been formed to ensure timely publication and allow more time for UFO investigations. The issue highlights an article from "Allers" magazine by Eugen Semitjov about a 1946 observation, which has been chosen to dominate this issue due to its interest. The editors note that due to the number of new Swedish observations, less international material could be included. They also mention a visit by Boris Jungkvist to FOA (the Swedish Defence Research Agency) and encourage members to read his report. The editorial acknowledges that the magazine appears 'thin' but assures readers that the amount of information is undiminished due to a smaller font size. A plea is made for members to help distribute GICOFF-Information via libraries, and an extra copy will be sent upon request. The editorial concludes by reiterating the necessity of the membership fee increase due to economic reasons and expresses hope that it will not deter members from supporting their work.

Key Articles and Reports

Life on Waterless Planets

This section discusses the research of two Swedish scientists at Columbia University, Gösta Wollin and David Ericson, who synthesized amino acids in a laboratory without water, using only substances known to exist in outer space. Their findings, published in the scientific journal "Nature," suggest that compounds crucial for the origin of life could form in outer space and potentially on the Moon. They believe their experiments, despite differing from extraterrestrial conditions, have implications for space biology. They propose that liquid ammonia, with its similar physical and chemical properties to water, could serve as a solvent for waterless life. Their experiments involved mixing ammonia gas, methanol, and formic acid (all found in space) and exposing them to ultraviolet radiation, resulting in the formation of amino acids after 25 days.

New Findings on Mars' Moon Phobos

This article delves into the mysteries surrounding Mars' two moons, Phobos and Deimos. It notes that while discovered in 1877 by Asaph Hall, they were mentioned in Swift's "Gulliver's Travels" much earlier. The article compares the stated distances and orbital periods with actual measurements, finding them remarkably consistent. It discusses the theory that Swift's mention might have been based on a desire for celestial harmony, given Earth's single moon and Jupiter's four. The article highlights the increasing orbital speed of Phobos, suggesting a potential collision with Mars in 10-20 million years. It also explores I. S. Shklovskii's theory that Phobos might be hollow, explaining its density and orbital acceleration, and thus potentially artificial. The findings from the Mariner 9 probe are presented, describing Phobos as a dark, cratered 'rock lump' approximately 25 by 21 km. While Shklovskii's theory of a completely artificial satellite is dismissed, the possibility of it being a natural 'rock lump' hollowed out artificially remains. The prevailing theory is that Phobos is a captured asteroid.

UFO Detector Reveals UFO?

This section introduces the concept of a UFO detector developed by a man named Cartwright, inspired by an account where a UFO caused a compass to deflect. Cartwright built a detector that reacted to magnetic field changes. Tony Eckardt of Stockholm's UFO-center has built seven such models since 1965. The article describes "Detector A," which uses a compass needle suspended on a bearing. Gold contacts are placed on either side of the needle, connected to a battery and a buzzer. When magnetic disturbances cause the needle to move from its North-South position, it completes the circuit, activating the buzzer. The advantages listed are its simple construction, low power consumption, and portability. Disadvantages include low sensitivity to magnetic disturbances and susceptibility to vibrations.

FOA Visit on 8.9.1971

Boris Jungkvist reports on his visit to the Swedish Defence Research Agency (FOA) to analyze Lars Thörn's UFO photographs. He met with UFO expert Tage Eriksson and photographer Svante Larsson. The initial explanation offered was that the 'flying saucer' was a free-flying model, possibly a hot-air balloon core with a balsa wood structure. However, it was confirmed that the image was not a copy. Nils Sjölin, a photographic expert, had previously stated the object was not a copy and estimated its diameter to be 4-5 meters. During the photo examination, Svante Larsson noted a thin grey-black line running from the ground to the saucer, suggesting an anchor. Eriksson inquired about possible shooting activities at a nearby firing range, which might explain the phenomenon. Jungkvist expresses disappointment with FOA's approach, calling it a "scientific scandal" for not having dedicated teams to thoroughly investigate UFO phenomena. He criticizes their handling of the case and mentions a short film shown to visitors that depicted a staged event, implying it was meant to show how easily photos and films can be faked.

Detailed Close Observation from 1946

This extensive report details a 1946 encounter by Gösta Carlsson, as recounted in "Allers" magazine. Carlsson describes seeing a disk-shaped object with a raised cabin, oval windows, and a mast in a forest clearing. He measured its diameter at approximately 16 meters and thickness at 4 meters. The object had openings around its edge that burned the grass when it took off. The article compares this account with other UFO reports, noting similarities in descriptions of openings and markings. It also discusses the physical marks left at the scene, including a large circle, smaller circles, and marks resembling landing gear and a 'fin', which had been dug up after the initial observation.

New Year's Night Light Phenomenon

This section investigates the widely observed light phenomenon on New Year's Day 1971. GICOFF's investigation suggests the phenomenon was likely a bolide (large meteor) or a satellite reentry. The widespread sightings, from Angermanland in the north to Skåne in the south, and from Bergen to Gotland, are analyzed. While some witnesses reported multiple objects in formation, the irregular movement and brightness led many to believe they were at a low altitude. The bolide theory is considered unlikely due to the timing (04:15), and the satellite reentry theory is examined by civilingenjör Sven Grahn, who calculated that the Soviet satellite Cosmos 453 was expected to reenter the atmosphere around 04:14 GMT on January 1, 1972.

UFO Sightings Across Sweden

This issue includes several shorter reports of UFO sightings:

• Lysande klot över Nyköping (Glowing Sphere over Nyköping): Multiple reports from Nyköping describe a red, hovering sphere emitting smoke, and later a yellowish-white sphere moving horizontally. Some witnesses saw flashes and smoke as the objects rapidly departed.
• Cigarrformat UFO över Virsbo (Cigar-shaped UFO over Virsbo): Three credible witnesses saw a horizontally oriented, cigar-shaped object with a metallic sheen hovering silently near Vretarna. It moved away as they approached.
• Bilister såg "tefat" (Drivers Saw "Saucer"): In Linköping, three young people observed a bright object that changed colors and emitted lights, appearing as a rotating UFO. It later descended, hovered, and then rapidly ascended.
• "Tefat" över Karlskoga flygfält ("Saucer" over Karlskoga Airfield): Two boys witnessed two large, bright objects flying low over Karlskoga airfield. One object stopped, and a smaller craft emerged before rejoining the larger one, which then ascended rapidly.
• Eldröd "måne" stod stilla över skogsbryn (Fiery Red "Moon" Hovered Over Forest Edge): In Flärke, a couple observed a large, red, glowing object hovering over a forest edge for 15 minutes before ascending rapidly. They later saw a bright, blinking red star-like object.

Additional Reports and Analysis

• Gnistregn (Spark Rain): A report describes a phenomenon involving a light source emitting a strange violet glow, with a spark-like effect on the ground, reminiscent of fireworks. This is compared to the Finnish "Finland case."
• Varelser i vita overaller (Beings in White Overalls): The report from the "Finland case" is further detailed, describing encounters with beings in white overalls and dark boots, some of whom appeared to be performing repairs on a craft. The witness experienced a feeling of being watched and a strange sensation.
• Svart lada (Black Box): The witness in the "Finland case" also described a being carrying a black, bellows-like box that emitted a yellow light. The witness's flashlight failed after this encounter, suggesting possible electromagnetic interference.
• Vem gravde och varför? (Who Dug and Why?): This section revisits the crop circle phenomenon, noting that the marks described by Gösta Carlsson had been dug up after the initial observation. The article questions who would have done this and why, especially since the inner circle was not dug up.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of GICOFF-INFORMATION are the detailed reporting of UFO sightings across Sweden, the analysis of photographic and physical evidence, and the presentation of witness testimonies. The magazine maintains a stance of serious investigation into the UFO phenomenon, encouraging scientific inquiry and critical analysis. There is a clear emphasis on documenting and disseminating information within the UFO research community, as evidenced by the publication of detailed reports, witness accounts, and the call for members to assist in distribution. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards the possibility of unidentified aerial phenomena, while also acknowledging the need for rigorous investigation and the potential for misidentification or hoaxes, as suggested by the FOA visit and the discussion of faked evidence.

This issue of "Jorden runt ufo-nytt" (Around the World UFO News), Volume 1, Issue 1, from 1970, delves into two primary topics: documented evidence of crop circles and a statistical classification of humanoid encounters related to UFOs. The magazine is published by SÖKAREN and is presented in Swedish.

Documented Crop Circles

The article "DOKUMENTERADE PÅ FLYGFOTOGRAFIER" (Documented on Aerial Photographs) addresses the skepticism surrounding crop circles by presenting evidence from aerial photographs. Gösta Fasth provided information that led to the acquisition of aerial photos from the Rikets allmänna kartverk (Swedish National Land Survey). A photo from 1963 clearly shows two circles in a clearing. Further investigation with Evert Eriksson from the same institution revealed photos from 1939 and 1947. The 1947 photo, taken from 3,000 meters, shows the circles faintly, while the 1939 photo showed the clearing to be empty. This suggests the circles existed by 1947, predating the widespread public awareness of UFOs and flying saucers. Tony Eckardt from Stockholm UFO Center confirmed the absence of circles in the 1939 photo. The analysis concludes that the crop circles were present in 1947 and 1963 but absent in 1939, and that the information from the magazine "Allers" is likely accurate. The article expresses gratitude to Gösta Fasth, the staff at Rikets allmänna kartverk, and Eugen Semitjov for their contributions.

Humanoid Classifications

The section "HUMANOIDER" (Humanoids), sourced from the French UFO magazine GEPA, presents a statistical breakdown of humanoid sightings associated with UFO landings. The data covers 27 reported cases.

Type 1: Normal Appearance

This category includes humanoids with characteristics considered normal from a human perspective, typically of normal or slightly taller stature. They are further divided into variants:

• Type 1 variant 1 (18 cases): These humanoids are described as 1.60-1.70 meters tall, with blond hair (short for males, long for females). Their skin color is normal or brownish, and they are often described as wearing uniforms or overalls in blue, brown, or grey. Some uniforms were noted as luminous or khaki. They are generally non-aggressive, though one case involved a humanoid using a light-emitting tube to paralyze a witness. Communication occurred in some instances, with one case involving telepathic contact. A total of 73 individuals were observed in this category, with 65 males and 8 females. Observations were reported in Brazil, Argentina, USA, France, Germany, and New Zealand.
• Type 1 variant 2 (5 cases): These are larger, ranging from 1.70 to 2.00 meters. They may have bald heads or wear suits that leave the face exposed. Their skin color is normal or yellowish. The suits are one-piece, sometimes with a belt, and dark or luminous in color. Their attitude can be aggressive or friendly. In one instance, a humanoid used a tube emitting a flame-like light beam, burning and paralyzing a person. Communication was reported in one case, in the witness's native language. A total of 10 individuals were observed, primarily in Argentina and Brazil.
• Type 1 variant 3 (4 cases): These humanoids are about 2 meters tall, with blond or short hair. Their skin is usually white, but one report mentioned green. They wear one-piece suits covered in scales or small luminous plates, described as silver-white or greenish. Their attitude is friendly, and they have not been reported as hostile. They carry a luminous orb as a weapon, which, when raised, causes witnesses to feel their strength diminish. One case reported numbness even when the weapon was not raised. Communication occurred in one case in the witness's language. A total of 7 individuals were observed, all in Argentina.

Type 2: Small Appearance

This category includes humanoids that appear normal but are small, resembling children. It accounts for 27 cases.

• Type 2 variant 1 (13 cases): Characterized by white skin and clothing. They are 1.00-1.20 meters tall, with normal or full faces and slightly slanted eyes. They wear light blue uniforms, sometimes tight-fitting and grey-green, with luminous bands or lights on their chests or shoulders. They may wear helmets or caps. Their attitude is generally avoidant but friendly, with no reported mistreatment. They do not typically use weapons, although one case mentioned a small tube emitting intense light that caused chest pressure. Communication was reported in one case in the witness's language. A total of 52 individuals were observed in Canada, USA, Brazil, France, Germany, Italy, and Denmark.
• Type 2 variant 2 (4 cases): Distinguished by dark skin color, about 1 meter tall. Skin is black or dark brown, with normal facial features. They wear overalls, either tight or loose. Their attitude is friendly, and no weapons were reported. No communication occurred. A total of 11 individuals were observed in Brazil, Italy, and France.
• Type 2 variant 3 (3 cases): Characterized by green skin and small stature. One description mentioned a long face with a high forehead and dark hair. Green skin. Clothing included a tight suit with a helmet. Their attitude was aggressive, with attempts to abduct witnesses. No information on weapons or communication was provided. Approximately 30 individuals were observed in Canada, USA, and Argentina.

Rocket Stage Incident

The "PRESS-STOPP" section features a photograph of a splitting rocket stage, taken by Einar Hotvedt outside Moss, Sweden. The article, continuing from page 14, describes the trajectory of the rocket stage during its final orbit, passing over Los Angeles, western Greenland, north of Iceland, Bergen, Småland, and northern Poland. The speed of the rocket stage was 8 km/sec (480 km/min). It is suggested that the rocket stage may have begun to burn up over western Norway. The rocket stage was 8 meters long, 1.65 meters in diameter, and weighed 1,500 kg. The intense braking upon atmospheric entry could explain the observation time of 5 minutes and the fragmentation of the object. The article posits that the New Year's night light phenomenon was likely the atmospheric entry of the rocket stage of Kosmos 453. A note mentions that a few reports from Norway with slight time differences might not be explained by this incident.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "Jorden runt ufo-nytt" adopts a stance of serious investigation into unexplained phenomena. The focus on documented evidence, such as aerial photographs of crop circles, and statistical analysis of humanoid sightings suggests a methodical approach to understanding UFO-related events. The magazine appears to be open to exploring various hypotheses, including extraterrestrial origins and potential misidentification of man-made objects like rocket stages. The editorial tone is informative and analytical, aiming to present findings and encourage further inquiry, as indicated by the recurring "forts. i nästa nummer" (continued in the next issue) and the publication of the magazine "SÖKAREN" which covers parapsychology, UFOs, religions, and philosophy.