IUSI - No 12 1979

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO-Sverigeinformation, identified as issue number 12 from January 29, 1979, is published by the Riksorganisationen UFO-Sverige. It is designated as 'INTERN' and is intended for internal circulation among members, with a strict confidentiality notice. The magazine covers organizational news, internal debates, UFO reports, and technical discussions within the Swedish UFO community.

Central Group Function and Organizational Matters

The issue details the ongoing process of selecting a new central group for UFO-Sverige. The current central group, based in Köping, has found its workload increasingly burdensome, impacting the organization's primary goals. In response, discussions have been held with other local groups, with Sala Amatörförening för Tvärvetenskap and Enköpings UFO-förening expressing positive interest in taking over the function. A proposal is put forth for SAT to become the new central group, with support from Enköpings UFO-förening providing two members. This aims to alleviate the pressure on a single group and ensure the continuation of vital functions like reporting, public relations, and field researcher training.

Internal Conflict: Chris B. Vos vs. VTF

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a heated debate between Chris B. Vos and the Västerås Tvärvetenskapliga Förening (VTF). Vos, a former member, raises several critical questions regarding VTF's practices, including alleged fragmentation, a lack of shared interest, and harsh internal policies. He questions the board's actions and their justification for a communication ban imposed on board members in March 1976. Vos criticizes VTF's explanation of 'tvärvetenskap' (transdisciplinarity) as 'hackknivs-etymologi' (hack-knife etymology).

VTF, in its response, dismisses Vos's letter as 'kverulans' (quibbling) and accuses him of attempting to disrupt the organization. They defend their actions, stating that Vos's criticisms are unfounded and that he left the organization due to personal difficulties. VTF asserts that their internal discussions and decisions are legitimate and that they are committed to their goals despite challenges. They also mention that while they initially agreed to publish Vos's critical article in their internal magazine, they later decided against it, citing the need for neutrality and the fact that Vos's criticisms were already being aired in local newspapers.

UFO Phenomena and Interpretations

Pastor Carlsson and the Flying Saucers: An article by Pastor Carlsson is discussed, which interprets UFO phenomena through a religious lens. Carlsson suggests that UFOs are either from God or the Devil, and given the lack of contact from benevolent extraterrestrial sources, he leans towards the latter. The commentator, 'Dram', expresses disagreement with this stark dichotomy, suggesting that while help might be needed, attributing UFOs solely to the 'evil side' is an extreme reaction.

TV Report of a UFO: A news report details an incident on New Year's Eve where an Australian TV reporter, Quentin Fogarty, filmed a mysterious oval, shining object over New Zealand. The object was observed to approach and circle the reporter's hired plane for seven minutes. The footage was broadcast by BBC and other outlets, leading to a surge in UFO sightings reported by the public. However, scientists like Sir Bernard Lovell suggest that such phenomena could be meteors burning up in the atmosphere.

Technical and Astronomical News

Technical Spalt: A proposal is made for a 'Teknisk Spalt' (Technical Column) to facilitate technical collaboration among UFO groups. This section would serve as a forum for discussing technical problems, sharing information on magnetic fields, radiation, and electrical schematics. Sten Dramstad offers to help initiate this column.

Valberedning (Election Committee): The magazine announces that the election committee for the upcoming 1979 national meeting has been formed, consisting of Siv Eriksson, Susanna Backlund, and Eivor Auscher. Local groups are requested to submit their nominations for the new central group in order of preference.

Pluto Closer: An astronomical note reports that Pluto, previously the farthest planet from the Sun, will become the second-outermost planet starting from week 4. This change is due to Pluto's orbit crossing Neptune's on January 21st, 1979. Pluto's orbital period is 248 years, while Neptune's is 165 years.

Letters from Local Groups

UFO-ALARMTJÄNST, Jönköping: This group reports on their ongoing struggle to be registered as an official organization by the local municipality. They have faced difficulties in getting their articles published in the local newspaper and are exploring alternative press contacts. They also mention plans for public events, including an exhibition at the city library.

The response to the Jönköping group's situation highlights the challenges faced by UFO organizations in obtaining municipal funding, as government subsidies are primarily directed towards sports, political, and religious organizations. While municipal grants are generally available, some municipalities, like Jönköping, refuse them, citing reasons related to the organization's nature. The response suggests that Jönköping's strong free church activity might be a contributing factor.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the internal organization and administration of UFO-Sverige, the challenges of managing a national UFO organization, and the importance of collaboration among local groups. The debate between Chris B. Vos and VTF highlights the difficulties in maintaining unity and managing internal disagreements within such organizations. The magazine also touches upon the interpretation of UFO phenomena, ranging from religious perspectives to scientific explanations and media reports. The editorial stance appears to be one of neutrality, particularly in the case of the Vos-VTF dispute, where 'Mats' (likely the editor) states the intention to break up the debate if it continues to escalate. The publication encourages active participation from local groups and aims to foster a sense of community and shared purpose.

This issue of UFO-Sverige, covering weeks 7 through 10 of February and early March 1979, delves into various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, pseudoscientific theories, and organizational matters within the UFO-Sverige association. The cover prominently features a sensational headline about a crashed UFO and the demise of its extraterrestrial occupants.

UFO-Sverige Planning Conference (December 9-10, 1978)

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the proceedings of a planning conference held in late 1978. Key discussions revolved around the internal organization of UFO-Sverige. It was noted that the organization seemed 'strange' and that local associations were working independently, with UFO-Sverige not being a primary focus for them. Paavə Silvennoinen suggested using a standardized letterhead for inter-association communication. Jan Thimell proposed expanding the UFO-Sverige board with more members from across Sweden to foster better understanding and collaboration. Jan Eriksen advocated for a unified 'WE' approach, discarding divisive 'VI' and 'DE' politics. Bernt Berglund suggested a campaign to attract 3000 new members, which could lead to state funding and support.

Discussions also focused on the role of district managers, with complaints about some not fulfilling their duties. It was clarified that a district manager should assist local groups, help start new ones, and act as an investigator for field research. Proposals for appointing district managers included nominations from groups or associations to the UFO-Sverige board or election at the national assembly.

An interest survey was planned to gather information on who organizes national meetings and who will manage 'UFO-80'. Motions from the Västerbergslagens UFO-förening to the national assembly were discussed.

The magazine highlights the youth and children's activities, with Jan Eriksen from Västerås presenting his work. He noted the availability of children's literature on space and had condensed a UFO film to 14 minutes for younger audiences. Suggestions were made to create more accessible materials and films for children.

Regarding the election of the board, two proposals were received from Nyköping and Västerbergslagens UFO-förening. The planning participants recommended the Västerbergslagens UFO-förening's proposal.

The conference summary concluded that it was a worthwhile event that facilitated the exchange of ideas. However, it was observed that many participants lacked experience in association techniques and discussion, and that a sense of cooperation needed to be strengthened within UFO-Sverige for the national organization to function effectively.

Pseudoscientific Theories: Velikovsky, von Däniken, and Others

The issue critically examines pseudoscientific and 'kvasi-scientific' theories. It introduces the concept of a 'science' that exists alongside established science, often dealing with topics like ancient mysteries, extraterrestrial influences on human history, and alternative explanations for phenomena.

Immanuel Velikovsky's theories, particularly those presented in "Worlds in Collision" (1950), are discussed. Velikovsky proposed that a comet from Jupiter, after passing Earth twice, caused major natural disasters and biblical events, and eventually became Venus. His ideas, along with those of Erich von Däniken, gained significant public traction, prompting a strong, sometimes hostile, reaction from the scientific community.

Erich von Däniken's theories, which suggest ancient civilizations were visited by extraterrestrials, are also highlighted. The article mentions the Nazca lines in Peru as an example of 'evidence' cited by von Däniken, although it notes that their purpose might be religious symbols. The article contrasts this with Jim Woodman's view, which expresses admiration for the ingenuity of ancient peoples.

Sociologist Marcello Truzzi's classification of sciences is presented, distinguishing between 'acceptable' and 'unacceptable' scientific methods and theories. 'Protoscience' is defined as theories that do not contradict established science but are not yet accepted. 'Pseudoscientific' theories are those that are either unscientific or unacceptable. The article places von Däniken and Velikovsky in the 'unscientific and unacceptable' category.

The Flying Saucer Phenomenon

The article delves into the history and nature of the flying saucer phenomenon. It traces the origin of the term 'flying saucer' to a 1947 sighting by Kenneth Arnold. The article notes that despite initial investigations by the US Air Force, the phenomenon gained momentum with books like George Adamski's "Flying Saucers Have Landed."

It discusses various alleged types of flying saucers and speculates about their origins, including theories that they come from inside the Earth.

The Bermuda Triangle is presented as another area associated with unexplained disappearances, though the article suggests that closer examination reveals misquotations and misinterpretations.

Paths to 'Mental Health': Scientology and Dianetics

The magazine explores pseudoscientific approaches to mental well-being, focusing on Scientology and Dianetics, founded by L. Ron Hubbard. Dianetics, presented as a method to overcome negative 'engrams' (recordings of past experiences), became popular in the 1950s. Hubbard later rebranded and expanded this into Scientology, which he established as a church.

Wilhelm Reich and Orgone Theory

Wilhelm Reich's theories on 'orgone' energy are discussed. Reich believed orgone was the fundamental life force in the universe, accumulated through orgasm and distributed throughout the body. He developed 'orgone accumulators,' devices claimed to concentrate orgone from the air. Despite facing opposition from the FDA, Reich continued his work, eventually being imprisoned and dying in prison.

Other Pseudoscientific and Fringe Practices

The article briefly mentions other fringe practices, including the 'vrilium' cylinder, which was marketed as a health device but contained rat poison. It also touches upon 'kvackare' (quacks) like Dinshah Pestanji Framji Ghadiali and his 'Spectro-Krom-therapy'. The article also references the flat-earth beliefs promoted by Wilburn Glenn Voliva.

Psychotronics: The 'New Old' Science

Psychotronics, also referred to as parapsychology, ESP, or PSI, is presented as a field that bridges pseudoscientific and potentially scientific domains. It investigates phenomena such as telepathy, clairvoyance, and psychokinesis. While acknowledging its controversial nature and association with figures like Uri Geller, the article suggests that a more rigorous approach, focusing on reproducible experiments and the study of abilities common to most people, could yield more meaningful results.

Openness in Research

Dr. Zdenek Rejdák of Prague advocates for greater openness in research concerning psychotronics, arguing that fear of the unknown can lead to mysticism and leave the field open to charlatans. He suggests that the scientific establishment's dismissal of theories like Velikovsky's inadvertently strengthened his position. The article concludes by emphasizing the need for researchers to be more open to the public's inquiries to foster better scientific understanding and prevent reliance on emotional responses.

UFO Reports and Claims

A section titled "Tefat havererade - utomjordiska varelser omkom!" (Flying Saucer Crashed - Extraterrestrial Beings Died!) reports on claims by two retired US Air Force colonels who allegedly witnessed the bodies of extraterrestrials recovered from a crashed UFO. The beings were described as about 1.2 meters tall with silver-like skin and metallic clothing.

Another report details the recovery of debris from the Soviet satellite Kosmos 954 in Canada, involving significant costs for cleanup. The article also mentions that the CIA was compelled by a court order to release documents related to UFO observations, which were requested by an organization of UFO observers who believe these craft are from other planets on reconnaissance missions.

A separate incident describes a police officer in Genoa who claims to have been abducted by aliens multiple times, experiencing unusual phenomena like his car's roof glowing.

Finally, the magazine notes a connection being made between religion and UFOs, with the Missionsförsamlingen in Tenhult inviting Ufo Alarmtjänst to a meeting, suggesting a growing interest in exploring such intersections.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the UFO phenomenon from various angles, including eyewitness accounts, alleged crashes, and the broader context of pseudoscientific theories. There's a critical yet open approach to these subjects, distinguishing between established science and fringe theories. The editorial stance appears to be one of investigating and reporting on these phenomena, encouraging critical thinking while acknowledging the public's fascination with the unexplained. The emphasis on UFO-Sverige's internal organization and the need for collaboration suggests a desire to professionalize and strengthen the UFO research community in Sweden.

Title: Seriemagasinet
Issue Date: 1977
Volume/Identifier: N. W. T. 781019
Publisher: Seriemagasinet
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of Seriemagasinet delves into the realm of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) with a focus on distinguishing genuine sightings from misidentifications and exploring the psychological aspects of UFO experiences.

Article: Ransbybo såg susande måne (Ransby Resident Saw Humming Moon)

This news report details an alleged UFO sighting by Erik Halvarsson in Ransby, near Sysslebäck, Sweden. Halvarsson, an employee of the road authority, was cycling home when he observed a flying saucer. He stopped his bicycle and watched the object for approximately half a minute. The object hovered for about 10-15 seconds before disappearing directly westward, near Branäsberget. Halvarsson estimated its size to be three times that of the moon and described its color as shiny, similar to stainless steel, with a yellow hue on its edge. He reported hearing a faint humming sound from the object. Halvarsson expressed his newfound belief in UFOs following this experience, stating that he previously had doubts but now felt compelled to believe.

Guide: Guide som hjälper er att skilja falska flygande tefat från äkta (Guide that helps you distinguish false flying saucers from real ones)

This section provides a humorous or satirical guide to help readers differentiate between actual UFOs and various phenomena that might be mistaken for them. The listed categories include:

• Hallucination: Characterized by peculiar color shifts and a buzzing sound, potentially leaving the ground scorched.
• Mirage: Described as exploding with a loud noise and shattering windows.
• Jet Plane: Generally recognizable and rarely mistaken for extraterrestrial craft. They can change shape, become transparent, and materialize or dematerialize, varying in size from small to that of large passenger aircraft.
• Planet Venus: Often mistaken for rockets or UFOs, and jet planes reportedly give up chasing it.
• Skyhook Balloon: Approximately 10-15 meters in diameter, traveling at high speeds, often seen in formations, and sometimes releasing smaller balloons. Researchers reportedly deny sending up any balloons.
• Spindelnät (Spiderweb): Appears on radar as fast-moving discs. Pilots reportedly find them troublesome, and they are described as diving towards the planet and frightening pilots when shot at, sometimes changing course just before a collision.
• Såpbubbla (Soap Bubble): This phenomenon releases objects like tinfoil, large ice blocks, and other items that dissolve before examination. Humanoid figures have reportedly been observed inside these.
• Temperaturinversion (Temperature Inversion): Caused by the meeting of warm and cold air, characterized by solidity when aircraft attempt to fly through it. Little is known about these as pilots often perish before reporting.

The author of this guide is credited as "Prof. Kalkyl."

Article: Hypnos och UFO:s (Hypnosis and UFOs)

This piece discusses the unconventional methods used by psychologists to investigate UFO phenomena. It highlights psychologist Leo Sprinkle from the University of Wyoming, who claimed to have evidence of UFO existence. At the 86th Congress of the American Psychological Association in Toronto, Sprinkle presented his findings based on hypnotizing 50 individuals over five years. These individuals, under hypnosis, reportedly recalled being aboard flying saucers and detailed their experiences of space travel. One of Sprinkle's patients described being taken aboard a spaceship by extraterrestrial beings. These beings were described as humanoids with curly hair and two antennae on their heads. The information is attributed to "To The Point International."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to adopt a dual approach: reporting on alleged UFO sightings with a degree of journalistic neutrality (as seen in the Ransby report) while also offering a critical or skeptical perspective through the "Prof. Kalkyl" guide, which satirizes common misidentifications. The inclusion of the hypnosis study suggests an interest in the psychological and anecdotal aspects of the UFO phenomenon, presenting it as a subject of scientific inquiry, albeit through unconventional means. The overall stance seems to be one of exploring the topic from multiple angles, including eyewitness accounts, potential explanations, and psychological research.