IUSI - No 01 1977

Magazine Overview

This is the first issue of "INTERN UFO-Sverigeinformation," a confidential internal bulletin for the Riksorganisationen UFO-Sverige (UFO-Sweden), dated December 16, 1977. The magazine is published by the Central Group of UFO-Sverige and aims to provide a platform for internal communication, sharing information, advice, and fostering a sense of community among its active members. The content is strictly confidential and not to be shared with third parties.

Editorial and Purpose

The editorial states that the need for an internal bulletin was recognized throughout 1977, with discussions held at various meetings. The delay in its publication was due to the central group's heavy workload, particularly with the external publication "UFO-Information." The Sala Amatörförening för Tvärvetenskap (SAT) has taken on the task of editing and typing the content, with Leif Andersson in Kalmar-Ölands UFO-förening responsible for stenciling, printing, and distribution. The primary goal of the bulletin is to inform about organizational happenings, offer advice and tips to active members, and disseminate ideas and knowledge to advance their work. It emphasizes that the bulletin is advisory, not directive, and aims to highlight good ideas from members.

The editors stress that the bulletin is produced under tight deadlines, with the aim of getting news to members quickly. This first issue was prepared in less than 14 days to reach members before Christmas. The success of the bulletin depends on prompt subscriptions at the cost price of 35 kronor to ensure its continued publication.

Future issues plan to feature local UFO-Sverige groups and individual active members to help everyone get to know each other. The bulletin will also cover tactical actions, such as coordinated responses to major UFO-related events like the premiere of a new UFO film. It will also address misinterpretations of sightings that have natural explanations. Local groups are encouraged to submit details of their upcoming activities for potential cross-group visits and collaborations.

A significant point is the shift in policy regarding the dissemination of information. Previously, information about organizational measures like the air surveillance network or alarm systems was kept confidential until implementation. This new internal bulletin allows for the sharing of plans and ideas in advance, enabling more members to contribute valuable tips and suggestions.

Content Highlights

Local Group Information: The issue includes a list of addresses and phone numbers for local UFO-Sverige groups, a feature previously withheld for security reasons.

Member Contributions: Readers are encouraged to submit text material, including discussion posts and questions on UFO-related and interdisciplinary topics. This material is to be sent to the Central Group in Köping.

• Science and Technology:
• "Smutsig elektricitet" (Dirty Electricity): An article by H. Ekstrand discusses concerns about the environmental and health impacts of electricity, particularly high-voltage phenomena like corona discharge and the formation of nitrogen oxides and ozone. It mentions the potential for these to form nitric acid and notes that human cells may lack defenses against these new forms of electricity.
• "Stora isberg löser USA;s vattenproblem?" (Giant Icebergs Solve USA's Water Problems?): This piece reports on NASA's monitoring of a massive iceberg near the South Pole. Researchers believe that towing such icebergs to California could solve the state's water problems, with one iceberg estimated to provide enough water for 1100 years.
• "Världens dyraste ämne" (World's Most Expensive Substance): The article briefly mentions Californium 252, a radioactive isotope, costing 10 million dollars per gram and produced at a rate of half a gram per year.
• "UPPFINNARE VILL FÅ EL. FRAN JORDROTATIONEN." (Inventors Want Electricity From Earth's Rotation): This section details cyclon generators that utilize the Earth's rotation to produce energy. Two variants are presented: one using solar heat to warm air (Edgar Nazare's design) and another using a downward air current cooled by a refrigeration unit (Börge Mönnike's design). These generators are projected to be significantly cheaper to build than nuclear power plants.
• Soviet Camera: A report from "Ny Teknik" mentions a Soviet "time loupe" camera capable of capturing 20 million images per second, used for studying plasma formation and material decomposition at the Kurtchatov Nuclear Energy Institute in Moscow.

Parapsychology:
An extensive article titled "PARAPSYKOLOGI" explores the field of parapsychology, defining it as the study of phenomena beyond the conventional understanding of psychology. It covers areas such as hypnosis, psychobio-physics (testing the vital energy of eggs and plants), and telepathy. The article discusses experiments involving levitation and the potential of telepathy to transcend physical barriers. It also touches upon clairvoyance (ESP) used by US police for locating missing persons, premonitions, and inspiration. Psychokinesis, the ability to move objects with the mind, is also discussed as a documented area of research.

Science Fiction:
The magazine introduces a new section dedicated to science fiction, featuring a story titled "Himmelsporten" (Heaven's Gate) by Taurina in this issue. The section also includes a discussion on the definition and appeal of science fiction, referencing authorities like Sam Moskowitz and Brian Aldiss. It notes that SF often explores current societal issues that may become more prominent in the future.

• Organizational Matters:
• "VAD HÄNDER?" (What's Happening?): This section provides updates on UFO-Sverige's activities. Thorvald from the central group discusses the challenges of communication and the importance of using the automated answering service. He mentions ongoing work with UFO films for Norway and the production of 14 copies of their own UFO film, which has a 4-week waiting list for rental. Plans for the national assembly (Riksstämman) are underway, including advertising sales and ticket orders. The issue also highlights a problem with the assembly of "UFO-Information" in Skänninge and seeks volunteers to assist with this task.
• UFO Landings: The article mentions the investigation of a UFO landing in Trehörningsjö, Ångermanland, involving three humanoids, and a similar incident in Norway. It also notes that Jan-Ove Sundberg in Motala is working on three 3mm films about Swedish UFO landings with humanoids.
• Membership and Legitimation Cards: The bulletin clarifies that UFO-Sverige does not require personal details of local group members, only a yearly activity report with the number of paying members for voting rights at the national assembly. It also states that legitimation cards for field researchers are expected to be ready by the end of January.
• "Introduktion" (Introduction): The new UFO-Sverige action program and a "field researcher's guide" are in the process of being printed and will serve as a comprehensive resource for members.
• Merchandise: Plans are underway to produce T-shirts with the UFO-Sverige emblem, but funding is currently insufficient.
• Lost Item: A lost pair of binoculars from the internat training in Lersäter is mentioned.
• Space Debris: A report on "Rymdskrot" (Space Debris) notes that 10,000 man-made objects have been launched into space, with 4,289 still in orbit. The latest object is the American communication satellite "Triple-7."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are internal communication and organization within UFO-Sverige, the exploration of unexplained phenomena (UFOs and parapsychology), and the dissemination of information to members. The editorial stance is one of openness to new ideas and collaboration, while maintaining a confidential approach to sensitive internal matters. There is a clear emphasis on empowering members and fostering a collective effort in the pursuit of understanding UFO phenomena. The magazine also shows an interest in scientific and technological advancements, both established and speculative, as well as the burgeoning field of science fiction.

This issue of "Tidskriften" (The Journal), identified as issue 18 and published in 1976, focuses on Fortean phenomena and UFOs, with a cover headline highlighting "*FORTEANA*". The magazine is published by Scanfo and priced at 3.75 Danish Kroner per issue.

Personal UFO Encounter and Time Theories

The central narrative revolves around Björn, who, shortly before his death, leaves a letter for his wife Kate. In it, he describes observing a disk-shaped object with surprising speed in the sky near Nystad. This experience leads him to develop theories about different time dimensions and 'touching points' between galaxies. He posits that UFOs do not originate from outer space but from other time dimensions, with which Earth coexists. He specifically mentions a field near Skarby as a place where these 'time systems' intersect, creating a 'vortex disturbance' that allows for traffic of beings and machines. Björn's investigation into this phenomenon seems to have led to his demise, as he states in his letter that he will be dead by the time Kate reads it and that the event was something he could not prevent.

Bernt Fredriksson and Annika, friends of Björn and Kate, become involved in investigating Björn's claims. They visit the field near Skarby, where they witness strange phenomena, including the grass moving without wind and what appear to be footprints of non-human origin. They also observe glowing, vibrating entities and large, triangular landing marks, suggesting a significant event occurred there.

The Legacy of Charles Hoy Fort

The issue dedicates a section to Charles Hoy Fort, an American journalist and author who meticulously collected and archived unexplained phenomena from 1800 onwards. Fort's work highlighted the tendency of established sciences to dismiss or explain away anomalous events. His collected works were compiled into "The Books of Charles Fort" in 1941. The article notes a growing interest in Fort's theories, particularly in relation to UFOs, and mentions the establishment of organizations like the Fortean Society and, more recently, the Scandinavian Fortean Organization (Scanfo) in December 1976. Scanfo aims to publish books and a journal, "Forteana," covering similar topics to Fort's work, including tidal power, life after death, the Bermuda Triangle, and ancient mysteries.

UFO-Related News and Events

Several short news items related to UFOs and unexplained phenomena are included:

• Cave Paintings: Ancient cave paintings discovered on the Baja California peninsula in Mexico depict 15-meter-high figures resembling spacecraft or helicopters, differing from Aztec and Mayan art.
• First UFO Sighting Report: A brief mention of the first reported 'flying saucer' sighting in the "Denison Daily News" on January 25, 1878, by farmer John Martin.
• Soviet Rocket Debris: The crash of a Soviet rocket, Kosmos 897, in Northern Colorado, USA, initially mistaken for a meteorite or falling plane.
• Dinosaur Footprints: The discovery of numerous dinosaur footprints in Queensland, Australia, interpreted as evidence of a large predator attacking smaller dinosaurs.
• Tokamak-10 Fusion Reactor: The achievement of obtaining plasma in the Soviet Union's Tokamak-10 fusion facility.

Tips for UFO Debaters

A section titled "TIPS FÖR UFO-DEBATTÖRER" (Tips for UFO Debaters) by Carl-Anton Mattsson of UFO-Nyköping provides guidance on preparing and delivering presentations on UFO topics. It emphasizes making a good first impression, using voice effectively, structuring content logically, and engaging the audience. Key advice includes understanding the audience's interests, being current, and using clear language. It also warns against discussing religion, politics, nationality, and eroticism in a way that might alienate listeners.

Event Announcements

Two upcoming events are announced:

• VTF Excursion: The Västerås Interdisciplinary Association (VTF) is planning an excursion to the Kvistaberg Astronomical Observatory on January 14, 1978, followed by a discussion with the Solna Astronomical Association (SAF).
• UFO-Sveriges National Meeting: A national meeting for UFO-Sveriges is scheduled for Saturday, March 18, 1978, at Folkets Hus in Stockholm. The event will feature speakers, a film screening, and a Q&A panel with experts.

Strategy for Generating Debate

An article titled "STRATEGI" (Strategy) discusses methods for initiating and sustaining debates about UFOs in public forums, particularly through letters to the editor. It suggests that a seemingly minor, unexplained event reported in the media can serve as a catalyst for such a debate. The author also cautions that manipulating such debates can be risky if discovered.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, the nature of reality, time dimensions, and the limitations of conventional scientific explanations. The magazine appears to adopt a stance that is open to unexplained phenomena and critical of mainstream scientific dismissal of such events, aligning with the Fortean tradition of investigating the anomalous. The editorial stance encourages critical thinking and open-mindedness towards topics that challenge established paradigms.

Title: Fria Ord
Issue Date: December 1, 1977 (with content referencing October 19 and November 1, 1977)
Publisher: Bärgslagsbladet / Arboga Tidning
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Content Summary

This issue of "Fria Ord" features a multi-faceted discussion on the topic of UFOs (Unidentified Flying Objects), encompassing a debate, media criticism, and reports on related filmmaking.

Debate: UFOs - Reality or Delusion?

The central piece is a response from Tommy Thörning of the Riksorganisationen UFO-Sverige (National Organization UFO-Sweden) to a clergyman named Sigge Bock. Bock had reportedly stated in a lecture that UFOs were a form of 'half-religious longing' driven by adventure and fantasy, and that the existence of parallel realities made UFOs a matter of speculation rather than fact. Thörning vehemently disagrees, asserting that Bock's statements stem from 'total ignorance' of what UFO truly means. Thörning clarifies that UFO stands for 'unidentified flying objects' and that approximately 80% of reported cases have natural explanations (satellites, weather balloons, planets like Venus, optical phenomena). However, the remaining 20% are unexplained and form the basis of UFO research.

Thörning criticizes the common misconception that UFOs are necessarily alien spaceships, stating that this is a subjective opinion. He argues that those who dismiss the phenomenon entirely are ignorant of the facts. He also refutes Bock's notion of 'half-religious longing,' emphasizing that UFO organizations engage in concrete fact-finding and documentation. While acknowledging the existence of 'fanatics' who claim regular contact with UFO beings, Thörning states that UFO-Sverige distances itself from such individuals and focuses on investigating reported observations.

Thörning points to historical accounts, including a mention of Pharaoh Thutmose III and his army witnessing luminous objects in the sky thousands of years before Christ, as evidence that the phenomenon is not new. He also explains the origin of the term 'flying saucer' from Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting. Thörning concludes by stating that UFO-Sverige's interest lies in the 20% of cases that remain unresolved, and that their goal is to eventually solve the UFO mystery.

In a separate but related article, Thorvald Berthelsen, Chairman of Riks-organisationen UFO-Sverige, also addresses Sigge Bock's contribution. Berthelsen criticizes the media's tendency to sensationalize UFO reports or dismiss them as misidentifications. He argues that serious material has difficulty gaining traction in Swedish media, with only local newspapers and radio showing more openness. Berthelsen refutes the idea that scientists do not engage with UFO issues, noting that many scientists, politicians, and defense personnel are interested but hesitant to speak openly due to perceived 'narrow-minded authorities' that have suppressed debate for decades. He criticizes Bock's use of his title 'Präst i Kungsör' (Priest in Kungsör) to lend weight to his argument, pointing out that even the Swedish Church (SKS) has organized study circles on UFOs. Berthelsen concludes that the organization aims to elevate the UFO issue to a more respected level and distances itself from fantasists, stating, 'It is not we who see "flying saucers"!'

UFOs in Film and Media

The issue also delves into the portrayal of UFOs in popular culture and filmmaking.

Steven Spielberg's 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind': An article by Anders Björkman discusses Steven Spielberg's upcoming film. It highlights that the film, starring Richard Dreyfuss, deals with 'flying saucers' and 'close encounters of the third kind,' where contact is made with extraterrestrial beings. The film is noted for its realistic setting ('in today') and its focus on friendship and music as a universal form of communication, rather than conflict. Spielberg's long-standing interest in UFOs is mentioned, including a childhood 8mm film he made on the subject. The article suggests the film will boost reporting on UFOs and potentially shift public opinion on humanity's place in the universe.

Swedish UFO Films: A report from Värnamo-Tidningen details the production of three short documentary films about UFO encounters in the Motala region. These films, produced by Action Filmproduction, will feature local boys as 'saucer beings' and are based on actual events. One of the films involves a five-meter diameter 'flying saucer' model being built by Värnamo Gummifabrik, intended to avoid trickery and enhance authenticity. The films are planned to premiere in Stockholm in March 1978.

Directory of UFO-Sweden Groups

The issue includes a comprehensive directory listing the addresses and contact information for various local UFO-Sweden groups across Sweden, such as those in Enköping, Markaryd, Kalmar, Västerås, Köping, Falun, Nyköping, Sundsvall, Gävle, Vikmanshyttan, Sollefteå, Umeå, Kiruna, Amål, Ludvika, Olofström, Sala, and Karlskoga.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the nature of UFO phenomena, the role of media in shaping public perception, and the scientific investigation of unexplained aerial phenomena. The editorial stance, as represented by UFO-Sverige, is one of advocating for a serious, scientific approach to UFO research, distinguishing it from sensationalism and unfounded speculation. There is a clear effort to counter skepticism and promote a more open-minded, yet fact-based, discussion of UFOs within Swedish society.