Studiekredsbladet

Magazine Overview

Title: Studiekredsbladet
Issue: 1. årgang (First Year)
Date: February 1974
Publisher: SUFOI (implied, as the publication is linked to SUFOI's ufological thinking)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
Price: 2,00 kr.

This is the inaugural issue of Studiekredsbladet, a Danish publication dedicated to UFO phenomena and ufology. Titled the 'Presentation Number,' it aims to introduce the magazine and its purpose to readers, as well as to showcase the various UFO groups that have contributed to its creation. The magazine is presented as a platform for communication and information sharing within the Danish UFO community.

The Genesis of Studiekredsbladet

The lead article, "HVORLEDES BLEV STUDIEKREDSBLADET TIL ???" (How Did Studiekredsbladet Come About???), details the efforts to establish a UFO study group magazine. Peter A. Hansen from SUFOI's PR/Information department had previously tried to initiate such a publication without success. The author, who became interested in UFOs in early 1973, decided to revive the idea. By contacting UFO groups in November, they received seven positive responses, including from five active UFO groups and two leaders of less active groups. With eight groups on board, the author began editing the material for the first issue.

The author expresses hope that the magazine will receive continued support from the contributing groups and attract even more UFO groups. It is emphasized that Studiekredsbladet is not a new UFO organization but a journal grounded in SUFOI's ufological perspective. The hope is that it will serve not only UFO groups but also individuals interested in understanding 'group life' within the UFO community.

Content and Future Direction

Page 2 elaborates on the 'presentation-number' format, explaining that this issue features self-introductions from various UFO groups based on five points: group history, member demographics (age, knowledge), areas of occupation, public outreach activities, and future plans. While not all groups could address every point, the aim was to provide a comprehensive overview. Future issues will shift to ongoing reports and updates from groups, moving beyond this initial 'snapshot.'

The magazine plans to introduce reader interaction features, such as a 'Debate Box' for discussing UFO cases and theories, and an 'Inquiry/Investigation Box' for requesting UFO-related materials like magazines and articles. The editorial team seeks to foster strong communication between readers and the editorial staff, believing this is crucial for the magazine's success, especially given its small scale.

Featured UFO Groups

Several UFO groups are profiled in this issue:

• Virum UFO Kreds: Founded in early 1968 by Flemming Ahrenkiel and Inge Larsen, this group initially had six members and grew to about eight. They meet bi-weekly, discussing UFO topics and assigning tasks. Members, averaging 25-30 years old, pay 5 kr. monthly for costs, including their two-page newsletter, 'MÅNEDS-NYT.' Their focus is primarily on UFOs, but they also discuss other interesting topics. They have hosted external speakers and aim for serious UFO research.

• Tastrrup UFO Gruppe: This group began with the author's contact with an engineering student in Torslunde. Despite initial challenges in recruiting members, they published a small pamphlet titled 'IIVAD ER VI?' (WHAT ARE WE?). They attempted to gain members by writing to local newspapers but had not yet received a response by January 5th. A key member, Jan Andersen, decided to step back from active leadership but remained a supporter.

• I LSTED-GRUPPEN: Initiated in 1966 by Hans E. Lassen, chairman of the local youth association, this group had a stable membership of six until 1973. The group was characterized by diverse opinions, with members holding views ranging from Adamski's theories to religious perspectives and even opposition to UFOs. Their common interest was astronomy, which initially attracted new members, but the 'little green men' aspect proved more captivating. By 1973, the average age was around 29, and their primary focus was astronomy. They held three public meetings over six years. The group ceased operations in late September due to dwindling active members, though interest in continuing it has emerged.

• SKANDINAVISK UFO FORENING (SUFOF): Plans for this organization began in 1969, with the actual start in 1970. Their initial publication was 'UFO-INFORMATION,' a bi-monthly magazine. By late 1971, they had a dedicated editorial team of 3-4 people. They soon realized the need for meetings in addition to the magazine. The organization was renamed 'SKANDINAVISK UFO FORENING' in 1973 to reflect its Scandinavian representation. SUFOF now has 15 editorial staff members and 40 members aged 13-70. Their research areas include ufology, astronomy, space travel, and UFO books, but they strictly avoid topics like occultism or ghosts, adhering to a scientific approach. SUFOF has been featured on TV and radio and is producing a film in 1974. They also offer informational audio tapes and have a weather station and contact with meteorological institutes.

• FREDERICIA UFO GRUPPE: Re-established in early 1973 after a break since 1968, this group has focused on local UFO work, maintaining close contact with the Fredericia press. They have a regular audience of 30-40 people at their meetings. The group has investigated UFO cases, including peculiar tracks found at Østerstrand, which the military attributed to a grenade exercise, a conclusion the group doubts. They also investigated a case on Fyn involving a bright light beam and a mysterious object.

• JORLUNDE UFO GRUPPE: Started in autumn 1970 in the Roskilde area by Thorkild Overvad, the group moved to Jørlunde in 1972. They have attempted to expand their membership and have engaged in various UFO aspects, hosting speakers and working on projects like the Piri Reis map. The group includes members with technical expertise in radio, engineering, and rocketry, aiding their UFO investigations.

• HØRHOLM-GRUPPEN: Celebrating its first anniversary in January 1974, this group was formed by individuals wanting to pursue their UFO interest together. Their initial meeting was at Aalborg Katedralskole, but they now meet at members' homes. The group has listened to police officer Hårup's UFO observation on tape and viewed SUFOI's slide series. They have conducted two observation trips and plan to distribute flyers to gain subscribers for UFO-Nyt.

Special Features

• EFTERFORSKNINGS KASSEN (Investigation Box): This section seeks information from readers about a reported case of a settlement in Northern Canada that mysteriously disappeared around 1960-61. A friend who lived in Greenland mentioned reading about it in the 'Grønlandsposten' newspaper. The editor is interested in any details readers might have.

• DEBAT KASSEN (Debate Box): This section invites readers to discuss UFO phenomena. The author poses questions about UFOs being observed near power stations and along 'declination lines' (earth's magnetic lines), suggesting a possible connection between UFO propulsion methods and magnetic fields. Another question concerns mapping UFO sightings in Denmark to identify patterns and potential 'UFO invasions.' The author encourages SUFOI and other organizations to contribute their knowledge.

Editorial Stance and Publication Details

Studiekredsbladet is financially independent and operates on a scientific and serious basis, focusing on UFO phenomena and avoiding occult or paranormal subjects. The price for this first issue is 2.00 kr., with a subscription for the remaining 10 issues costing 18.00 kr. The magazine details its production costs, highlighting postage as a significant expense. Readers are encouraged to consider ways to reduce postage costs, such as local distribution in the Copenhagen area.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the establishment and purpose of Studiekredsbladet, the presentation of various UFO groups across Denmark, and the exploration of UFO phenomena through research and reader interaction. The editorial stance is clearly one of promoting a scientific, evidence-based approach to ufology, fostering communication within the UFO community, and encouraging active participation from readers. There is a strong emphasis on information sharing and investigation, with dedicated sections for debate and reader inquiries. The publication aims to be a central hub for UFO enthusiasts in Denmark, bridging the gap between different groups and providing a platform for serious discussion and research.