IUSI - No 03 1978

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO-Sverigeinformation, dated February 18, 1978, is an internal publication from the Riksorganisationen UFO-Sveriges Centralgrupp. It is marked as confidential and intended only for local groups, district managers, field researchers, and active members within the organization. The magazine covers a range of topics relevant to UFO enthusiasts and organizational management.

Key Articles and Content

Organizational Matters and Funding

The issue provides extensive information on how local UFO-Sweden groups can secure funding. It details various municipal grants available through the Fritidsnämnden (Leisure Committee), including:

• Startbidrag (Start Grant): 500 SEK for newly started groups with youth activities, available within six months of formation.
• Kommunalt Aktivitetsstöd (Municipal Activity Support): Approximately 10 SEK per meeting for groups with at least five members under 25.
• Administrationsbidrag (Administration Grant): Based on the number of members aged 5-25, covering administrative costs like postage and printing.
• Hyresbidrag (Rent Grant): Covers about 70% of rental costs for group premises.
• Inventaríebidrag (Inventory Grant): For purchasing necessary equipment like furniture.
• Lov/lägerverksamhet (Holiday/Camp Activities): Support for youth camp activities, including leader and participant grants.

Additionally, groups are advised to contact the Kulturnämnden (Culture Committee) for grants related to film equipment, projectors, tape recorders, and for covering losses on public events.

The issue emphasizes the importance of maintaining good relations with municipal officials and presenting the organization's activities clearly. It also notes that UFO-Sweden, due to its membership numbers, does not qualify for state grants but can still receive municipal support.

The Psychology of Failed Prophecies

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to an analysis of what happens when prophecies fail, drawing heavily on the research of three American scientists: Leon Festinger, Henry W Riecken, and Stanley Schachter. Their 1956 report, "When Prophecy Fails," is discussed in detail. The case of a small group in Michigan, USA, who believed in a prophecy of a great flood on December 21, 1954, and expected to be saved by flying saucers, serves as a primary example. The researchers observed the group's reactions when the prophecy did not come true. The article highlights that instead of losing faith, individuals with deep convictions often become even more fervent and committed to spreading their beliefs after their predictions are disproven. The text explores the psychological mechanisms behind this phenomenon, suggesting that people may double down on their beliefs to protect their self-identity and commitment.

UFO Reports and Investigations

The issue mentions a period of calm in UFO report submissions, with the expectation of an increase due to heightened public awareness. It anticipates receiving many reports of misidentified objects like satellites and aircraft, alongside older, previously unreported cases. The magazine also touches upon the US government's stance on UFO investigations, noting that NASA has rejected a proposal to resume research into unidentified flying objects, deeming it a waste of resources. However, NASA stated it would analyze any 'bona fide physical evidence' if presented.

Scientific and Technological Developments

• Solar Power Experiment: An experiment involving a 100-meter-high solar tower with a steam boiler at the top is described. The challenge lies in storing heat for steam production during cloudy weather or at night, with experiments planned using eutectic salts.
• Mysterious Explosions: Eight high-altitude explosions have occurred along the US East Coast since December, baffling scientists. These events are described as much more powerful than typical sonic booms, and the Pentagon has stated there is no threat to national security.
• Swedish Astronaut Potential: The possibility of Sweden having its first astronaut in the mid-1980s is discussed, potentially participating in the European Spacelab mission. Two Swedish researchers, Professor Hans Fredriksson and researcher Ulf Brandt, are mentioned as being involved in Spacelab studies related to metallurgy and the inner ear's balance system in weightlessness.
• Uranus Rings: New observations suggest that Uranus may possess rings, similar to Saturn. These rings were detected by a flying laboratory and are not visible with ground-based telescopes.

Other Content

• New UFO-Sweden Group: The formation of the Huddinge-Botkyrka Tvärvetenskapliga Förening on January 21, 1978, is announced. This group aims to activate UFO enthusiasts in the greater Stockholm area and help establish new local chapters.
• Call for Efficiency: UFO-Sveriges Centralgrupp is seeking suggestions for improving the efficiency of the 'Riksalarmeringsnätet' (National Alert Network).
• New Fees/Rates: Updated rates for various activities are mentioned, including a 250 SEK fee for theme nights when municipal or state grants are available, and 75 SEK otherwise. Mileage reimbursement has increased to 7.60 SEK per kilometer.
• Remote Answering Service: The Central Group is using a remotely controlled answering machine (Esselte Servifon) at phone number 0221/31025 for messages when staff are unavailable.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's content reflects a dual focus: the practicalities of running a national UFO organization (funding, administration, communication) and the exploration of UFO phenomena and related topics like prophecy and the psychology of belief. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting organized research and information dissemination within the UFO community, while also engaging with broader scientific and societal issues. There's a clear emphasis on encouraging local group activity and participation. The articles on prophecy and the psychological reactions to disproven beliefs suggest an interest in understanding the human element behind extraordinary claims and convictions. The inclusion of scientific news, from solar power to planetary rings and astronautics, indicates a broad scope of interest beyond just UFO sightings.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: 1/1978
Date: January 1978
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of Sökaren delves into various UFO-related topics, presenting a mix of speculative theories, personal accounts, and news reports.

The Martin-Laughead Group: Failed Prophecies and Rationalizations

The issue details the experiences of a group led by Fru Martin, who received messages from 'Sananda' and believed in imminent contact with extraterrestrials. Initially, Fru Martin was hesitant to spread these messages, but Sananda instructed her that only those 'prepared' would understand and be 'sent' to higher vibrational planets, while others would be 'washed away by the flood.' The group also believed in reincarnation, with members identifying as biblical figures. Fru Martin herself believed she had been the mother of Jesus.

The group's activities centered around Fru Martin's automatic writing, supplemented by messages from a female member speaking in trance and a medium. These messages were seen as 'independent confirmations.' The group included college and university students, and a natural scientist. Several members took drastic actions based on their beliefs, such as quitting jobs or studies and giving away possessions.

Fru Martin's automatic writing frequently announced that flying saucers would arrive to collect the chosen ones or that space beings would visit. This led to great anticipation within the group. They prepared for these events by removing metal objects from their clothing and creating 'passes' for boarding UFOs. They even received a password: "I have left my hat at home."

When predicted events did not occur, the group rationalized them as 'delays in the program' or tests from the 'Guardians.' One notable incident involved a prank call from someone claiming to be 'Captain Video from space,' announcing a landing at Fru Martin's farm. The group prepared earnestly for this, only to be disappointed.

Despite repeated unfulfilled prophecies, the faith of Fru Martin and Dr. Laughead remained strong. They sought further messages from the 'Guardians' and never expressed doubt. Even after the group disbanded, Fru Martin continued to receive messages, and Dr. Laughead began giving lectures.

On December 21st, the group awaited a 'catastrophe.' Just before midnight, they were told a spaceman would arrive to take them to a flying saucer. When midnight passed with no event, the group remained motionless, in a state of shock. Later, members described the experience as overwhelming.

The issue highlights how the group rationalized the non-occurrence of the 'flood' prophecy by claiming their 'light' had caused the Creator to revoke the decision. They shared this news with the media, which reported it. However, some members left the group, unable to accept these explanations.

Dr. Laughead was later examined by two psychiatrists and declared 'fully normal.' The researchers concluded that the group's beliefs, while unusual, were not entirely uncommon, and their reactions to disproven prophecies were typical human responses.

Mysterious Signals from Pegasus Satellite

The American satellite Pegasus, which had been inactive for nine years, began transmitting mysterious radio signals on July 16th. This event caused interference with a new Japanese weather satellite. Neither the space agency nor the satellite's constructors could explain the cause of the signals.

Warning: Satellite Debris

The issue includes a warning to UFO-Sweden members regarding potential satellite crashes. Following the Soviet satellite Kosmos 954's crash in Canada, which carried 45 kg of Uranium-235, it is noted that more satellites with nuclear reactors may crash. Field researchers are advised to assess reports of 'mysterious finds' or ground traces, distinguishing them from meteorites or military objects. If a crash site is identified, immediate contact with the central group is advised, and direct approach to the site is forbidden until proper safety measures, including Geiger counters, are in place. Researchers without Geiger counters are warned to stay away from potential crash sites until they can borrow the equipment. If radioactivity is detected, individuals should return home and contact the central group.

UFOs from Jupiter!

Astronomers at the University of Arizona have detected oxygen and water in Jupiter's atmosphere, leading to a new hypothesis that UFOs might originate from this planet. Jupiter, being 381 times the mass of Earth, is the largest planet in our solar system. NASA is reportedly sketching plans for space facilities in light of these discoveries.

Previous measurements had already indicated the presence of chemicals necessary for life in Jupiter's atmosphere. The new findings suggest that the conditions for life's emergence are met. Despite Jupiter's extremely low temperatures (-100 degrees Celsius), it is suggested that life could exist in protected environments like giant plastic tents or geothermally heated caves. The article also speculates that Pluto might be a staging post for UFOs.

The article mentions a secret US Air Force Academy memo warning pilots about four types of cosmic intelligence in UFOs, including a gelatinous form potentially from Jupiter or Pluto. The astrological keyword for Pluto is 'extinction,' associated with hyperactive sexuality, psychological stress, setbacks, and blockages.

Landing on Jupiter: A Practical Consideration

Superpowers are racing to develop new types of spacecraft, driven by the depletion of Earth's resources and the need for survival. Jupiter is being considered as a natural laboratory for future space exploration. NASA experts plan to utilize its energy sources, mineral deposits, and potential food reserves. These resources would be processed in new factories to support future space missions and provide provisions for journeys into the vastness of space.

The article includes a disclaimer from UFO-Sverige, stating their strong disapproval of an article from 'Berghs Flyg- och rymd-kalender -76,' which they believe is intended to damage the credibility of serious UFO research.

Uri Geller's Experiences with UFOs

Uri Geller recounts his experiences with UFOs, stating that his camera levitated while he was on a Lufthansa flight over Europe. The resulting photograph, developed at Stanford University, showed three disc-shaped objects. He also describes an incident where a Polaroid camera captured a disc-shaped object with visible mechanical details, taken from a friend's house overlooking New York.

Geller believes these objects are not only extraterrestrial but can also become invisible. He also mentions experiments with Dr. Andrea Puharich, where strange voices were recorded on tape, claiming to be extraterrestrial entities guiding metal-bending and telepathy. Geller acknowledges the incredible nature of his experiences but asserts their authenticity, suggesting that the psychic forces studied in parapsychology laboratories might be related to UFO phenomena.

Satellite Debris Removal and Radioactivity

Radioactive debris from the crashed Soviet satellite Kosmos 954 is being transported from its crash site in northern Canada in a specially designed lead container. Canadian and American experts are uncertain if all radioactive fragments have been recovered. The recovered piece is approximately 25 cm long and 8 cm wide, likely from near the satellite's reactor.

No Radioactive Fallout in Sweden from Kosmos 954

Sweden's Defence Research Agency (FOA) confirmed that no radioactive material from the crashed Soviet satellite fell in Sweden. FOA conducted measurements and found no residual radioactivity from the satellite. However, they noted the continued presence of radioactivity over Sweden from a Chinese hydrogen bomb test in November of the previous year. FOA continues to monitor radioactivity levels.

SF: Flying Saucers - Just Silly Fantasies?

This section presents a fictionalized account from 'News of the Mars,' a Martian newspaper. The editor, Al, dismisses reports of flying saucers landing on Mars as mere fantasy. He argues that if Earthlings were intelligent enough to build flying saucers, they wouldn't land in the cold, atmospherically hostile regions of Mars but in populated areas. The article references a 1938 expedition (G30) to Mars that found it uninhabitable. It also mentions the writings of 'K47,' who allegedly financed an expedition to Earth and described its inhabitants as having male beings with detachable penises and female beings with four wheels and glowing eyes. The article dismisses K47's accounts as pure fiction and fantasy, particularly a story about a talking 'sausage' that attacked someone.

The Martian editors decide not to publish these 'flying saucer' stories in their Sunday supplement to avoid causing unnecessary alarm on Mars.

Siberian Snowman

Reports from Soviet scientists in Yakutia describe a mysterious wild man, known as 'Tjutju-naa,' roaming the remote Verkhoyansk region. This creature is described as over two meters tall, dark-faced, with a low forehead, broad chin, and long arms. It wears reindeer hides and is feared by reindeer herders and berry pickers. Scientists speculate that Tjutju-naa might be a descendant of an ancient population displaced into the inaccessible mountain ranges.

UFO Exhibition in Grillby Library

An exhibition on 'flying saucers' was held at the Grillby library from January 10th to 28th, organized by UFO-Nyköping. The exhibition featured historical examples, including ancient cave paintings depicting figures that appeared to be wearing spacesuits, and documented UFO sightings since the 1800s. Photographs of alleged UFOs, some critically examined by scientists, were displayed. The exhibition also included a film and audio presentation about UFOs. Reports of UFO sightings in Sweden are numerous, with 200-300 cases annually. The scientific community is puzzled by UFOs' ability to make sharp turns and course changes, their silent movement, and their effects on vehicles and electrical installations. The exhibition aimed to inform the public about UFO phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the UFO phenomenon from various angles, including alleged contactee experiences, scientific hypotheses about extraterrestrial life (e.g., from Jupiter), and news related to space technology and incidents (like satellite crashes). There's a clear distinction made between sensationalized or fictional accounts (like those attributed to K47 or the fictional Martian newspaper) and more serious investigations or personal testimonies (like Uri Geller's or the Martin-Laughead group's experiences). The editorial stance, particularly from UFO-Sverige, is to approach the subject seriously, debunking what they consider to be 'nonsense' or 'damage' to the field, while still presenting a wide range of reported phenomena and theories. The magazine aims to inform its readers about UFO sightings, potential explanations, and the ongoing debate surrounding these unexplained aerial phenomena.

This issue of the publication, dated Monday, January 30, 1978, features a prominent headline announcing that an American blockbuster film is providing excellent publicity for the UFO organization in Köping, Sweden. The article highlights the film's role in increasing awareness and contact with UFO-Sverige, particularly its central operations based in Köping.

American Film Boosts UFO-Sverige

The main article details how the upcoming American film, titled 'Narkontakt av tredje graden' (Contact of the Third Kind), is being used as a platform to promote UFO-Sverige. The film's extensive publicity campaign includes distributing 1.5 million posters across Sweden, which feature descriptions of UFO-Sverige's activities and provide contact information for their 24-hour alarm central located in Köping. Thorvald Berthelsen, the chairman of UFO-Sverige and head of the Köping central group, expresses his delight at the attention and anticipates a significant increase in calls to their organization.

Berthelsen explains that the film's narrative is largely based on actual UFO experiences reported worldwide, with only a small portion dedicated to science fiction, primarily in the opening and closing sequences. He notes that approximately one observation of 'exceptional light phenomena' occurs every five minutes globally, and about ten percent of these cannot be explained naturally.

Increased Activity and Preparedness

UFO-Sverige's central group in Köping is experiencing a surge in activity. Thorvald Berthelsen has been visiting local chapters to prepare them for the influx of questions expected following the film's release. He reports that interest in their work has grown steadily, and he is frequently occupied with informing the public about their activities. Upcoming engagements include a lecture at Tärna folk high school.

The organization has produced a still film that has been shown to an estimated 35,000-40,000 people, generating numerous inquiries. They have also created copies with Norwegian text for the UFO organization in Norway.

Currently, UFO-Sverige in Köping is working to develop a specialized rapid response unit capable of quickly reaching any location in the country where a UFO sighting occurs. They are also enhancing their technical capabilities, including acquiring a 'Gelgermäster' (likely a technical specialist or equipment). The recent crash of a Russian satellite over Canada has prompted discussions about creating a guide for UFO spotters, particularly concerning potentially radioactive falling objects, in cooperation with the Swedish defense forces.

Upcoming National Meeting and Film Production Details

UFO-Sverige is organizing its annual national meeting, the 'riksstämma,' on March 18th in Stockholm. The event will feature prominent speakers, including astronomy docent Aage Bandqvist, who will discuss 'Conditions for Life in the Universe.' The meeting will also include a Q&A panel with notable figures, such as former Member of Parliament Anders Gernandt.

The film 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' was shot on 70mm film and involved numerous experts to achieve a high level of authenticity. Dr. J. Allen Hynek, a consultant to the U.S. government, was engaged for his expertise.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly emphasizes the connection between popular culture (specifically a major film) and the public's interest in UFO phenomena. It highlights the efforts of UFO-Sverige, particularly its Köping-based branch, to manage and channel this interest through information dissemination and preparedness. The article suggests a proactive stance by UFO-Sverige, aiming to be a credible source of information and potentially collaborating with official bodies like the defense forces. The editorial tone appears supportive of UFO-Sverige's work, portraying them as a dedicated and active organization.