IUSI - No 16 1979

Magazine Overview

This document is an internal newsletter from UFO-Sverige, titled "UFO-Sverigeinformation," with the issue number 16, dated June 5, 1979. It is marked as "INTERN" and "Konfidentiellt" (Confidential), intended solely for internal circulation within the organization.

Editorial Content

The editorial section, written by "Mats," reflects on the upcoming summer break and the need for continued effort within UFO-Sverige. It highlights the disappointment of Sten Dramstad, who has not received sufficient material for his technical column and his request for experiment results regarding the "psychomotor." The editor expresses gratitude to the Rapportcentralen for their work on the spring field researcher course held in Lersäter on May 19-20, which was attended by approximately 70 people, including many new faces and 20 women. The editor wishes readers a pleasant and warm summer, reminding them to drive safely and respect nature.

A separate section, "OBS OBS," appeals to local groups for help in designing a T-shirt for UFO-Sverige members. They are asking for drawings of suggested designs to be sent in for a vote.

Re-training Meeting for Field Researchers

UFO-Sverige's report central in Köping is organizing a continuation course and re-training meeting for previously trained field researchers on August 25-26 in Lersäter, near Köping. The program will cover practical aspects of field investigations and delve into phenomena like forteana. Specialist speakers will be invited, including the hypnotist Rolfino. The meeting aims to reunite former course participants. Friday is designated for travel and check-in from 3:00 PM, with an evening program including improvised entertainment and film screenings. Participants are urged to register early, with a deadline of August 10. Accommodation options include tents or caravans, with limited indoor sleeping spaces available. The cost for food and lodging from Friday evening to Sunday is 85 kronor, payable to postgiro account 74 51 90-9. Participants are reminded to indicate "TALT" (tent) or "HUSVAGN" (caravan) on their payment if they plan to use these forms of lodging. The organizers, Thorvald, Karl-0lov, and Ingvar, welcome attendees.

Radio Passning 27 MHz

UFO-Sverige has established a functional internal radio network in the Mälardalen area, comprising about 25 shortwave stations (PR/Private Radio) operating on both AM and SSB. The network is divided into two systems: Köping UFO-förening (call sign "UFO-KOPING" and mobile "UFO-1" to "UFO-42") and Enköping UFO-förening (call sign "UFO-ENKOPING" and mobile "UFO-101" to "UFO-112"). Listening times are set for even hours on SSB (European Channel 24, USB) and even half-hours on AM channel 21. Those with PR radios passing through the area are encouraged to make contact. The newsletter also requests readers with PR radios to report their equipment details to the UFO-Sverige alarm central.

Lersäter Course Recap

A recap of the field researcher course held on May 18-19 in Lersäter is provided. Around 70 people attended, with a significant number of new participants. The course included theoretical and practical training. The Saturday evening featured entertainment by Åke Gustafsson, followed by a display of various lights, including stoblights and lanterns, from a flying object. The following day focused on "contact with mass media," with a journalist from the "Expressen" newspaper present. The course concluded with a summary and evaluation session where participants were encouraged to provide feedback. Attendees reported gaining significant value from the course.

We Have Stopped Thinking Independently

This section discusses a "cross-disciplinary" (tvärvetenskap) forum in Sollefteå that attracted about twenty new faces. The theme was the history of earlier cultures and the technical capabilities of our ancestors. Reinhold Carleby, the chairman, suggested that by studying ancient cultures, many of our current mistakes could be avoided, as history is preserved in architecture, legends, and oral traditions. The article criticizes the tendency to blindly trust authority and "what God TV serves," implying a loss of independent thought. Loy Soli from Sundsvalls UFO-förening spoke about metrobiology and astrobiology. The organization plans to host more engaging events in the fall.

New Use for Dead Bodies

This short piece mentions a macabre idea by sociologist Amitai Etzioni of Columbia University. He proposes establishing "organ farms" where bodies of brain-dead individuals, whose organs are still functional, would be kept alive using heart-lung machines and dialysis. These organs would then be used to produce vaccines and blood for transfusion.

The Psychomotor

This article details experiments with a "psychomotor," a device that appears to rotate when placed in a window with a curved cardboard shield. The author initially suspected cosmic energy or a drafty window. After sealing the window, the psychomotor stopped rotating. The author suggests it could potentially replace electronic heat cameras for detecting drafts. The article then describes the functioning of the psychomotor, involving a needle-tipped plastic mug on a low-friction bearing, influenced by warm air currents from breathing and ambient room drafts. The author explains how hand warmth and room drafts affect the mug's rotation, noting that it can spin in either direction depending on the source of the draft.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently emphasizes the importance of active participation and contribution from members within UFO-Sverige. There's a strong focus on practical field research, training, and communication. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging critical thinking and independent investigation, as suggested by the "We Have Stopped Thinking Independently" section. The organization seems to value collaboration and information sharing among its members, as evidenced by the calls for contributions to the technical column and the T-shirt design contest. The newsletter also highlights the organization's efforts to maintain internal communication through its newsletter and radio network.

This issue of Västervärken, dated April 28, 1979, is a Swedish publication featuring a diverse range of articles, from scientific discoveries and technological advancements to unexplained phenomena and historical incidents.

Article: The "Meteor" Phenomenon

The cover story, "Bryt tystnaden om 'meteoren'!" (Break the silence about the 'meteor'!), discusses a light phenomenon observed in Västervik. The author, Tor Wiklund, presents a photograph of the event, noting a distinct spiral motion. He dismisses the possibility of it being a satellite, citing its angle and speed, and suggests it's unlikely to be a standard meteor. The spiral traces are hypothesized to be remnants of the object's descent. The article contrasts this with the known behavior of meteors and satellites, questioning the nature of the object and its potential explosion.

Article: Chiron - A New Planet?

This article, by Ingemar Magnusson, reports on the discovery of a mini-planet named Chiron in late 1977. Discovered by astronomer Charles Kowal, Chiron was initially thought to be the tenth planet in the solar system. Its orbit is highly eccentric, lying between Saturn and Uranus. The article estimates Chiron's diameter to be between 200-600 km and its orbital period to be 50.70 years. It ponders whether Chiron is a dwarf planet or a comet, noting it doesn't fit neatly into either category.

Article: "ÖRNAR I SKYN" (Eagles in the Sky) - Part 1 & 2

This multi-part series, written by Robert Collins, delves into the US Space Shuttle program and its implications. The first part discusses the delayed launch of the first reusable spacecraft, the increased costs, and the potential for military use, including the transport of large payloads like spy satellites. It also touches upon the Soviet Union's concerns about the US advancements in space technology and their development of sophisticated weapon systems, including laser cannons on "Hunter and Killer" satellites.

The second part of "ÖRNAR I SKYN" continues the discussion on space technology and its future. It details the potential for future generations of space shuttles, including those designed for passenger transport, and the ambitious plans for space stations and solar power plants in orbit. The article also explores the concept of space as the 'last continent' for humanity and the potential for space tourism, with projected cost reductions making it more accessible in the future. It highlights the development of energy alternatives like solar power from space and touches upon the philosophical implications of humanity's expansion into space.

Article: The Mystery of the Moving Stones

This section investigates the phenomenon of stones that appear to move on their own across the desert surface in Death Valley, California. Geologist Dr. Robert P. Sharp suggests that strong storms, combined with a slippery mud layer on the desert floor, are responsible for the movement of these heavy stones. He notes that some stones have moved considerable distances, and surprisingly, seven out of thirty tracked stones disappeared without a trace. The article also includes skepticism from park officials who have not witnessed the movement firsthand.

Article: UFOs Exist, Denied?

Reinhold Carleby's article questions why governments and authorities deny the existence of UFOs. He suggests that the denial stems from the political elite, who fear that the acknowledgment of advanced extraterrestrial technology would challenge their established positions and authority. The author believes that UFOs are not from physical worlds but from higher dimensions, and their occupants wish to share technology, but the elite are too afraid of the implications.

Article: What is a UFO or Flying Saucer?

Åke Gustafsson offers his perspective on UFOs, proposing that they are not physical craft but rather manifestations of consciousness from higher dimensions. He believes that physical travel across the galaxy is impossible and that consciousness is transferred. He explains that UFOs are made of finer matter that does not interact with our physical senses, which is why they can dematerialize and move at high speeds without sound.

Article: Kosmos 954: The Spy Plane That Fell from Space

This is the second part of a detailed account by Robert Collins about the Soviet spy satellite Kosmos 954, which carried a nuclear reactor and became uncontrollable in November 1977. The article describes the extensive search operation, codenamed "Operation Morgonljus," conducted by Canadian and American forces in the remote Canadian Arctic. It highlights the challenges of the search, the involvement of various military and scientific teams, and the concerns about radioactive contamination. The article also touches upon the cultural impact of the incident, with media attention and the fears of the local Inuit population regarding potential contamination of their environment and wildlife.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of unexplained phenomena, scientific advancements, and the potential for both progress and danger in technology. There's a recurring skepticism towards official explanations and a fascination with the unknown, particularly concerning UFOs and extraterrestrial life. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to question established narratives and consider alternative explanations for observed events. The articles often blend factual reporting with speculative theories, reflecting a strong interest in the intersection of science fiction and reality.

This issue of "UFO-kväll på biblioteket" (UFO Evening at the Library), published by Skaraborgs Läns Annonsblad on March 12, 1979, delves into the phenomenon of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) with a focus on both Canadian and Swedish incidents, as well as historical and organizational aspects.

Kosmos 954 Satellite Crash and Its Aftermath

The magazine details the dramatic crash of the Soviet satellite Kosmos 954 in the Canadian Arctic in January 1978. It describes the frantic efforts to locate and contain the radioactive debris, highlighting the work of scientists like Bob Grasty and Quentin Bristow who used a gamma spectrometer to detect the source. The article emphasizes the dangers of radiation, quoting radiation protection physicist Geoffrey Knight and his colleague Dr. Roger Eaton on the potential health risks, including cancer and organ damage, from exposure to even small amounts of radioactive material. The Canadian government's response involved extensive aerial searches and the involvement of international teams. The article also touches upon the diplomatic implications, with Canada seeking compensation from the Soviet Union.

UFO Sightings in Sweden

The issue features several reports of UFO sightings in Sweden. One account from Åkers Styckebruk on February 17, 1978, describes a bright, sharp 'lamp' and a larger object with no visible wings, emitting a sound like wind in pine trees. Another incident near Björnlunda on April 6, 1978, details a silent object with multiple spotlights that ascended vertically and moved at high speed. The magazine also references historical UFO events, including alleged sightings in Stockholm in 1535 and 'flying cigars' observed in the USA and England in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

UFO-Sverige: Organization and Activities

The role and activities of UFO-Sverige, the national organization for UFO research in Sweden, are prominently featured. The article discusses the organization's annual meeting in Köping, where Henry Svensson, an engineer, and Jan Fjellander, an editor, gave presentations. Birgitta Andersson was elected as the new chairperson, succeeding Torvald Berthelsen. The organization aims to investigate UFO phenomena without prejudice, collect reports, and act as a contact point for the public. It is noted that UFO-Sverige has approximately 2,500 members across 24 local chapters, with a significant portion being women.

Historical and Ancient Accounts of UFOs

The magazine explores the historical context of UFO sightings, referencing ancient texts such as the Vedas, which mention 'flying chariots' or 'vimanas,' and the Bible, specifically the Book of Ezekiel, which describes a vision that some interpret as a UFO encounter. It also touches upon the mysterious disappearances in the Bermuda Triangle and the possibility of 'teleportation' as a phenomenon related to UFOs.

UFOs and Official Skepticism

The article highlights the skepticism often faced by UFO enthusiasts from authorities, with Henry Svensson quoted as saying, "In the eyes of the authorities, one is not considered respectable if one takes UFOs seriously." Despite this, the magazine notes that military and police forces are increasingly cooperating with UFO researchers.

UFO Exhibition in Köping

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to a UFO exhibition held in Köping, Sweden, which attracted 10,000 visitors in the previous summer and was expected to surpass that number. The exhibition featured models of observed UFOs, films, and information about the phenomenon. The exhibition was supported by the local municipality and aimed to educate the public about UFOs.

Other Topics

Briefly mentioned are a case of mysteriously killed calves in Kopparberg, Sweden, and a report of a mysterious hole in a Norwegian lake, possibly caused by a meteor or satellite.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of unexplained aerial phenomena, the scientific and societal implications of UFO sightings, the challenges faced by UFO researchers in gaining official recognition, and the historical and cultural context of these events. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging the reporting and investigation of UFO phenomena while acknowledging the skepticism from official channels. The magazine emphasizes the importance of scientific investigation and documentation, even while admitting that many of its own researchers have not personally experienced UFO sightings.

This issue of SIMSALABIM, a Swedish publication, features a diverse range of topics including UFOs, a controversial magician, scientific theories about dinosaurs, and astronomical equipment.

UFO-Center Karlskoga Funds Telescope with LP Record

The magazine reports on the UFO-Center in Karlskoga, a non-profit organization that has released an LP record to raise funds for a telescope. Owe Lewitzki, the chairman of UFO-Center Karlskoga, explains that the initiative was made possible by brothers Nilsson and Stanley, along with technician Acke Svensson. The organization, which has about 50 members, aims to attract younger members and believes a proper telescope is crucial for this. A significant telescope can cost around 6,000 SEK, and they hope the record sales will cover a large portion of this cost. The LP, titled "Tracks from Superspace," primarily features film melodies, with most of the music sourced from the USA. Notable film themes included are from "Superman," "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," and "2001: A Space Odyssey." The cover art for the record was provided by the American embassy. UFO-Center has set a goal of selling ten records per member to achieve their funding target.

Dinosaurs May Still Live Among Us

A scientific article discusses the theory that dinosaurs may not be entirely extinct, but rather that birds are their modern descendants. Two American scientists, Robert T Bakker from Harvard and Professor Peter Galton from the University of Bridgeport, support this claim. Their argument is based on the likelihood that dinosaurs, unlike other reptiles, were warm-blooded, similar to birds. Most paleontologists believe that birds, dinosaurs, and all types of reptiles evolved from thecodonts, which lived approximately 200 million years ago. Bakker and Galton point out that the oldest bird fossils found are only about 140 million years old, which supports their theory.

Magician Rolfino Faces Police Report for Hypnosis

The issue also covers a police report filed against a magician named Rolfino (real name Rolf Homman, 43) for using hypnosis during his performances. Rolfino is accused of making audience members crawl on the floor, search for money, and chase green trolls, all while the rest of the audience laughs. Rolfino denies using hypnosis, stating he is an illusionist who misleads the audience and never forces anyone to participate. However, dentist Jan Thunér from Grängesberg, who filed the complaint, insists that it is hypnosis and that Rolfino's methods are dangerous and harmful, especially since hypnosis is legally prohibited in Sweden since 1916. Thunér believes Rolfino's actions damage the reputation of serious hypnotherapists who use hypnosis ethically in their work, such as in dentistry to help patients with dental phobia. The police in Ludvika have investigated the case, with an officer present at one of Rolfino's shows to document his performance. Arne Janman, a first police assistant, noted that the individuals brought on stage claimed they were not hypnotized and were playing along. He also mentioned that the law prohibits not only hypnosis but also "similar states of trance," though the latter is not precisely defined. Rolfino was previously acquitted in a court case in Mora before Christmas. Despite the ongoing investigation, Rolfino continues to tour with his show.

Astronomical Telescopes and Cameras for Sale

Advertisements in the magazine feature astronomical telescopes for sale. One is described as an equatorial refractor type ET2 with various magnifications (41x to 450x), a 60mm objective lens, and a 900mm focal length. It includes multiple eyepieces, a Barlow lens, prisms, a solar filter, a moon filter, a 6x30 finder scope, a stable tripod, and a wooden storage case with English instructions. Another advertisement is for an equatorial refractor telescope, described as a "superb star viewer at an advantageous price." Additionally, there is an advertisement for the MINOX 110 S, a pocket camera with a built-in rangefinder, marketed as the smallest of its kind and offering perfect pictures with ease. Studio Hedfors in Köping is offering these cameras at a 50% discount while supplies last.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to cover a mix of popular interest topics, including the unexplained (UFOs), controversial entertainment (hypnosis), scientific discoveries (paleontology), and consumer goods (telescopes, cameras). The editorial stance seems to be one of reporting on these subjects, presenting different viewpoints, and informing the public about current events and theories. The inclusion of a police report against a magician suggests an interest in societal issues and the application of law to entertainment practices. The scientific article on dinosaurs and birds indicates a leaning towards popular science reporting.