SUFOI Annual Report - 2019

Magazine Overview

Title: SUFOI Årsrapport 2019
Issue Date: January 2019
Publisher: Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI)
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This annual report from SUFOI (Skandinavisk UFO Information) presents a compilation of articles and notes from the 26 UFO-Mails distributed in the preceding year. It aims to provide an overview of UFO-related topics and investigations.

Key Articles and Content

Ildkugler over Danmark – om sten der aldrig fløj

The report highlights the year 2018 as significant due to the publication of Ole Henningsen's book, "Ildkugler over Danmark – om sten der aldrig fløj" (Fireballs over Denmark – about stones that never flew). This book details Henningsen's extensive research into reports of stones and other materials believed to be of extraterrestrial origin. Each incident has been thoroughly investigated, and many of the associated stones have undergone expert analysis to uncover their secrets. The book, spanning 134 pages in A4 format, includes illustrations, an index, and source references. It received positive media attention, including a segment on TV2/Øst on November 14, 2018. Astrophysicist Michael Linden-Vørnle contributed a foreword, emphasizing the importance of taking people's experiences seriously while stressing the need for thorough investigation and critical thinking.

Skinwalker Ranch: Verdens mest uhyggelige UFO-hotspot

This extensive section delves into the mysteries of Skinwalker Ranch in the USA, described as a significant UFO hotspot. The article recounts the experiences of the Sherman family, who moved to the ranch in 1994 to raise cattle. They reported being terrorized by poltergeists, supernatural creatures, and experiencing numerous UFO sightings and animal mutilations. These events prompted wealthy businessman Robert Bigelow to send a team of scientists to investigate, reportedly leading to at least two deaths.

The primary sources for this account are journalist George Knapp and Colm A. Kelleher, who co-authored the book "Hunt for the Skinwalker" in 2005. In September 2018, UFO enthusiast Jeremy Corbell released a documentary of the same name, largely based on their research.

George Knapp is presented with Matt Adams at the Annual Peabody Awards in May 2009. Knapp's accounts, found in his book and lectures, often use a pseudonym, Tom Gormann, for the individual at the center of the family's experiences, later identified as Terry Sherman. The ranch was also known as The Sherman Ranch.

The ranch is located in a remote area of northeastern Utah, characterized by its natural beauty. Historically, it was a significant hunting ground for the Navajo people, who were later displaced by the Ute tribe. A curse is said to have been placed on the area by the Navajo, leading to the presence of a 'skinwalker' – a shapeshifter capable of transforming into dangerous animals or monsters – which is believed to drive away intruders, giving the ranch its name.

The article details numerous unsettling events experienced by the Sherman family. These included encounters with large, wolf-like creatures, strange animal attacks, unusual flying objects, and unexplained phenomena such as objects moving on their own (poltergeist activity). The family also reported sightings of large, hairy creatures resembling Bigfoot and a pungent, musky odor.

Terry Sherman recounted an incident where a man meditating on the property was approached by a large, nearly invisible creature described as a 'Predator' monster. The family also heard strange sounds, described as coming from underground and the sky, with voices speaking in a mix of Russian and indigenous languages.

UFO sightings became regular occurrences. Terry described seeing a massive craft hovering very low, almost touching the treetops. Other sightings included stationary lights that ascended into the sky, classic flying saucers, and an object resembling an F117 stealth fighter. The fields were sometimes illuminated as if by a stadium, with lights appearing from above or below. Spherical lights (orbs) of various colors (red, yellow, blue) were observed investigating the animals and family members. Blue orbs, emitting a crackling sound, caused panic among the animals. The family's dogs showed extreme fear, and six cats disappeared one night.

Terry suspected government involvement using advanced technology to force them off the ranch. In May 1996, a blue orb investigated a horse, then approached the Shermans. Later, their dogs chased an orb into the bushes and vanished.

The Intervention of Robert Bigelow

The escalating experiences took a toll on the family's nerves and finances. The loss of 14 valuable cattle, some disappearing and others found mutilated with precise, laser-like cuts, mirrored reported cattle mutilations from UFO observations in the US Midwest since the 1960s. This financial strain, coupled with the psychological impact, led Terry to accept Robert Bigelow's offer to buy the ranch in September 1996 for an estimated $200,000.

Robert Bigelow, a multimillionaire with ties to NASA and founder of Bigelow Aerospace, was known for his interest in UFOs and the supernatural. He initiated scientific investigations through NIDS (National Institute for Discovery Science), a group of scientists dedicated to studying paranormal phenomena. NIDS established observation posts, using dogs as early warning systems and deploying cameras to document events. However, they encountered difficulties, such as locks on enclosures inexplicably opening and cameras malfunctioning.

One incident involved four valuable bulls being found hypnotized inside a trailer. NIDS registered high magnetism and found evidence of webbing on the trailer, suggesting the bulls were placed there by unknown means. Another documented event involved a calf found severely mutilated, with its chest cavity empty and a leg bone removed, with no blood found at the scene, indicating it was likely harmed elsewhere.

NIDS scientists also witnessed strange phenomena, including unusual lights and orbs, often just outside camera range or when equipment failed. Despite eight years of investigation, NIDS concluded that no scientific evidence could be definitively established, and the phenomena remained unexplained.

The Sherman family eventually left the ranch, and after 2000, the number of reported sightings dramatically decreased. Bigelow ceased investigations, and NIDS was dissolved in 2004.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine emphasizes the importance of investigating unexplained phenomena seriously and critically. It highlights the role of dedicated researchers and organizations like SUFOI in documenting and analyzing UFO sightings and related events. The recurring themes include the persistence of unexplained aerial phenomena, the potential involvement of government entities, the impact of these events on individuals and families, and the challenges faced by scientific investigation in this field. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging detailed reporting and analysis of witness accounts and evidence, while acknowledging the often elusive and perplexing nature of the subject matter.

This issue of SUFOI's Annual Report 2019, titled "Dengang en god bøf var guf for aliens" (When a good steak was a treat for aliens), focuses on the persistent mysteries surrounding Skinwalker Ranch and the phenomenon of animal mutilations. The report critically examines various claims, investigations, and theories, often contrasting them with scientific explanations and highlighting potential biases and sensationalism.

Skinwalker Ranch: A Legacy of Mystery

The report details the history of Skinwalker Ranch, beginning with Robert Bigelow's purchase in 1996 and his subsequent efforts to secure the property for investigation. Journalist George Knapp was granted limited access in 2000, conducting interviews and filming, though a book project was postponed due to increased public interest and attempts to access the ranch. By 2003, reported activity had decreased, leading Bigelow to greenlight a book, "Hunt for the Skinwalker," co-authored by Knapp and Kellehers, which significantly boosted public interest. The article notes the ongoing online discussions and Knapp's continued lectures on the subject. A 2014 film, "Skinwalkers," loosely based on these stories, is also mentioned.

A significant development discussed is the 2017 Pentagon case, where $22 million from the defense budget was allocated for UFO research, with funds ultimately going to Robert Bigelow for further investigations at Skinwalker Ranch between 2008 and 2012. In 2016, Bigelow sold the ranch for $4.5 million to Adamantium Real Estate, which registered the name "Skinwalker Ranch" as a trademark in 2018, ostensibly for entertainment purposes.

The report questions the conclusion that NIDS (National Institute for Discovery Science) had no definitive findings, citing Knapp's belief that some NIDS personnel shared his conclusions. A specific incident from August 1996 is recounted: an NIDS operative and Terry observed a yellowish light that transformed into a three-dimensional hole or tunnel. A human-like being without a head emerged, then disappeared. The hole closed, and the light vanished. A researcher described it as a black hole or interdimensional portal.

Knapp's theory suggests UFOs are 'shiny trinkets' meant to lure people into the 'dark forest' where dark beings lurk, feeding on human fear. This aligns with the experiences of Terry and Gwen Sherman, which resembled psychological warfare.

The concept of UFOs as beings from another dimension is linked to ufologist Jacques Vallée. Vallée, initially believing UFOs were alien craft, later shifted his focus to religious movements, folklore, ghosts, and demons. His 1969 book, "Passport to Magonia – From Folklore to Flying Saucers," proposed that UFOs were more likely beings from another dimension who had always visited humanity, perceived through different cultural lenses. Vallée's continued involvement with Bigelow Aerospace's expert panel and as a scientific advisor for NIDS is highlighted, suggesting a potential influence on NIDS's conclusions.

The Myth of Alien Animal Mutilation

The report then shifts focus to the phenomenon of animal mutilations, particularly cattle mutilations, which gained significant media attention. A key case is the death of a three-year-old horse named Lady (mistakenly called Snippy) in San Luis Valley, Colorado, in September 1967. The horse was found drained of blood and mutilated with apparent 'surgical precision,' with mysterious footprints nearby. Initial reports fueled speculation about satanic cults or aliens.

However, scientific investigations by personnel from the University of Colorado and the University of Nevada in February 1968 concluded that the condition of the carcass was not unusual and likely due to scavenging animals. A veterinarian, Dr. Wallace Leary, determined the horse was killed by two .22 caliber shots. Despite these findings, conspiracy theories persisted, and the Midwest experienced waves of alleged livestock mutilations throughout the 1970s and 1980s.

Sociologist James R. Stewart's 1974 study of cattle mutilations in Nebraska and South Dakota concluded that the phenomenon was largely fueled by widespread media coverage, leading farmers to examine carcasses more closely for signs of 'surgical cuts,' which were often the result of natural scavenging.

A 1975 investigation by The Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CIB) examined 203 cases and found that only two showed signs of being cut by a sharp tool. The report stated that the cattle died of natural causes and were subsequently consumed by scavengers. Anthropologist Nancy Owen studied the phenomenon in Benton County, Colorado, noting that stacked stones, often interpreted as altars, were common in the landscape and not necessarily indicative of mystical activity. Owen also noted that the primary threat in some rural areas was not 'mysterious mutilators' but nervous farmers protecting their livestock.

In 1979, a $44,000 government grant funded an investigation in New Mexico by former FBI agent Kenneth Rommel, who examined 117 reports. He concluded that the animals died of natural causes and were decomposed, with no evidence of satanic cults, aliens, or secret organizations. He also found no proof that farmers were intentionally killing their animals for insurance money. Rommel recommended that investigators stick to facts and avoid speculative language.

A simple experiment in September 1979 by the sheriff of Washington County, Arkansas, involved filming a cow carcass for over 30 hours. The footage showed rapid decomposition and consumption by scavengers, with organs, tongue, eyes, and soft tissues disappearing quickly.

Debunking the Myth

Sociologist Robert Bartholomew and folklorist Hilary Evans, in their encyclopedia "Outbreak! The Encyclopedia of Extraordinary Social Behavior," argue that media hype, particularly around the 'Snippy' case, kickstarted the cattle mutilation wave and fueled stories of government involvement, partly due to growing distrust of the federal government in the late 1960s. Jason Colavito is cited for his view that Jacques Vallée significantly contributed to the myth of aliens mutilating cattle, linking it to the popularization of UFO documentaries.

Vallée himself recounts being asked to update the documentary "UFOs: Past, Present and Future" in 1979. Although he concluded that cattle mutilations likely had nothing to do with UFOs, he recommended that the topic be included in the film. He acknowledges that he helped spread the message that these events were part of the UFO phenomenon, despite a lack of evidence for a non-terrestrial origin.

Public Beliefs in Denmark

The report concludes with a section on Danish beliefs, referencing a survey by Ken Ramshøj Christensen and Mathias Clasen from Aarhus University. The survey, "Hvad tror danskerne på?" (What do Danes Believe?), explores Danes' beliefs in supernatural phenomena, science, and various convictions. The report notes a decline in belief in supernatural powers but acknowledges that superstition remains prevalent. The survey aimed to map Danish beliefs and convictions, emphasizing the importance of empirical knowledge in a democratic society, especially in an era of fake news and 'post-factual' discourse.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this report are the persistent allure of unexplained phenomena, particularly at Skinwalker Ranch and concerning animal mutilations, and the critical examination of evidence and explanations. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards sensational claims, favoring scientific investigation and logical explanations while acknowledging the cultural and psychological factors that contribute to belief in the paranormal. The report highlights how media coverage and personal interests can shape narratives and perpetuate myths, often overshadowing factual evidence. There's a clear emphasis on distinguishing between objective reality and fabricated stories, and a critique of how certain individuals and organizations may profit from maintaining these mysteries.

This issue of SUFOI's Annual Report 2019 delves into various aspects of ufology, paranormal beliefs, and skepticism, primarily focusing on Danish perspectives and international UFO phenomena. The report is divided into several articles and sections, covering survey data, historical UFO cases, and critical analyses of alleged sightings and investigations.

Beliefs in Intelligent Life and Alien Visits in Denmark

The report begins by presenting findings from a survey conducted via social media, with over 2,200 respondents. It reveals that 60.5% of Danes believe in intelligent life elsewhere in the universe, with men being slightly more likely to hold this belief than women (67.9% vs. 52.3%). When asked about alien visits to Earth, only 8.3% believe aliens have visited in the past, and 19% are unsure. A smaller percentage, 5.9%, believe aliens visit Earth currently, with 13.2% unsure. The article includes quotes from respondents, some expressing theoretical possibility while others demand more evidence. Interestingly, the report highlights a surprising finding: more women than men believe in past and present alien visits (9.9% vs. 6.9% for past, and 7.4% vs. 4.5% for present), which contrasts with older Gallup results suggesting men were more likely to believe.

Skepticism and Representation

Religionshistorian Mikael Rothstein is quoted expressing skepticism about the representativeness of surveys conducted via social media like Twitter and Facebook, arguing that these platforms do not cover the entire population. He also notes that Danish religious beliefs are generally 'lukewarm' with a strong focus on the individual and the 'inner' self. The article mentions that beliefs in astrology, ghosts, and witches are more prevalent in Sweden, Canada, USA, and Great Britain than in Denmark, with Stonehenge being a site for neo-pagan activities.

The Legacy of George Adamski

A significant portion of the report is dedicated to the legacy of ufologist George Adamski. It details a lecture by Glenn Steckling, the director of The George Adamski Foundation, held at Kulturhuset Islands Brygge. Steckling, son of Adamski's close associates, continues to promote Adamski's claims about his encounters with extraterrestrials and his 'theosophically inspired' philosophy. The article describes Adamski's alleged meetings with 'space brothers,' his visit to the Vatican, and the promotion of his work through photos and films. The lecture, attended by about 25 people, mostly older gentlemen, presented Adamski's narrative as fact, with Steckling acting as a preacher of these beliefs. The report notes that critical questions from the audience were absent, and Steckling defended claims of faster-than-light travel by dismissing Einstein's theory as 'just a theory.' The event showcased old publications and merchandise related to Adamski.

The Pentagon UFO Investigations and the 'Tic-Tac' Phenomenon

The report critically examines the Pentagon's UFO investigations, focusing on the 'Tic-Tac,' 'GIMBAL,' and 'GO FAST' videos. It discusses the confusion surrounding the program's name, initially thought to be AATIP (Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program) but later revealed to be potentially part of AAWSAP (Advanced Aerospace Weapons Systems Application Program). The article highlights the difficulty in obtaining information due to incorrect program names. Skeptics Joe Nickell and James McGaha propose that the 'Tic-Tac' object, as described by pilot David Fravor, was likely a secret drone, possibly a Lockheed Martin Cormorant, deployed from a submarine. They argue that Fravor's experience might be a result of an exercise involving advanced drones, optical illusions, and misinterpretations of height and speed, compounded by memory issues over time. The article also touches upon the role of individuals like Tom DeLonge and Luis Elizondo in bringing these investigations to public attention.

Amateur Paranormal Research

Another section discusses the rise of amateur paranormal research groups (ARIGs) in the USA, with an estimated 2,000 such groups in 2010. The article references Sharon A. Hill's book, 'Scientifical Americans – The Culture of Amateur Paranormal Researchers,' which analyzes these groups. Hill, a geologist and author, categorizes these groups and their methods, often employing pseudoscientific approaches. The report notes that while these groups seek scientific validation, their methodologies and conclusions are often viewed with skepticism by established science. The article also mentions MUFON (Mutual UFO Network) as a large US UFO organization that aims for a scientific approach but faces scrutiny regarding its actual practices.

Project Prometheus

A historical note details 'Project Prometheus,' a Danish initiative from 1981-1982 that aimed to study UFOlogists themselves. The project intended to analyze Danish UFOlogists through questionnaires to understand their personality profiles and their role in the perception of UFO phenomena. However, the project faced internal criticism within SUFOI regarding anonymity and was ultimately not completed, though it was seen as a potential precursor to Sharon A. Hill's later research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the prevalence of paranormal beliefs in society, the methods and motivations of UFOlogists and paranormal researchers, and the critical examination of alleged phenomena by skeptics. The report presents a balanced view, including survey data on beliefs, detailed accounts of UFO cases and figures like George Adamski, and rigorous skeptical analyses. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, aiming to present information from various perspectives while encouraging a discerning approach to extraordinary claims. The use of surveys, historical accounts, and skeptical analysis suggests an effort to ground discussions in evidence, even when dealing with subjects that often lack empirical support.

This issue of SUFOI's Annual Report 2019, titled "Bogen om de mystiske fund" (The Book of Mysterious Finds), delves into various aspects of ufology, investigative journalism, and psychological phenomena related to UFO sightings. The report critically examines government-funded UFO programs, alleged alien materials, and the interpretation of visual evidence.

The Pentagon's Mysterious UFO Program and Robert Bigelow

The report begins by discussing a New York Times article from December 2017 concerning the Pentagon's mysterious UFO program. The program, which allocated $22 million, primarily benefited Robert Bigelow, a developer of aerospace technology and a friend of former Senator Harry Reid. Questions arose regarding the allocation of these funds and their actual use. In an interview, Reid explained that Bigelow was the cheapest bidder for the program, though no information on other bidders was available. Bigelow, who had a long-standing interest in UFOs and the supernatural, reportedly offered to cover some expenses himself, including the construction of buildings in Nevada to store exotic metal fragments. The program employed 46 scientists to study military-provided materials and compile reports, with special teams tasked with rapid response to UFO events. Reid claimed the information gathered was "impressive."

However, the report notes a lack of transparency from Reid, DeLonge, Bigelow, and others involved regarding the concrete findings. Reid also stated the program was halted due to a lack of results, which contradicts his earlier statements to Knapp. The nature of the exotic metal fragments and the need for specialized buildings in Nevada remain unclear. Critics have raised doubts about the program's claims.

Hal Puthoff on Meta-Metals

The article introduces Hal Puthoff, an electrical engineer known for his studies in the paranormal, including Uri Geller. Puthoff, now vice-chairman of TSAAS, spoke about working with Bigelow to study "meta-metals" from "advanced aircraft." He claimed the US government has long been aware of non-terrestrial visitors and has been secretly studying them to replicate their technology, not out of fear but to gain an advantage over other nations. Puthoff offered no concrete proof, citing classified information.

Jason Colavito's Investigation

Jason Colavito, a critic of pseudodocumentaries like "Ancient Aliens," began investigating the Pentagon's UFO study and Puthoff's claims on his blog in June 2018. He noted that while the AATIP program and most documents were not secret, the "meta-metals" in Bigelow's possession were suddenly classified. Colavito found a description of material allegedly found decades ago, possibly from the 1947 Roswell UFO crash, which resembled burnt metal and contained layers of bismuth and aluminum. Despite thorough investigation, its origin and purpose remained unknown. The report suggests these "meta-materials" are now known and used as microscopic electromagnetic conductors, questioning if this is an example of reverse-engineered alien technology.

Colavito points out that the Roswell material was examined by Linda Moulton Howe in 1996, who hired Nicholas A. Reiter. Reiter concluded that while unusual, the metal could have a terrestrial origin. Howe allegedly suppressed this conclusion as it didn't support her alien origin theory.

The Roswell Metal Fragment and Industrial Slag

In 2001, Reiter updated his conclusion, noting a little-known method for extracting bismuth from lead by using liquid magnesium. This process, patented in 1938, could create thin layers of bismuth in magnesium, suggesting the Roswell metal fragment was merely industrial slag, not alien technology.

Colavito Connects the Dots

Colavito criticizes pseudodocumentaries and pseudoscientific broadcasts. He posits that the "meta-metals" discussed by people associated with Bigelow and TSAAS are likely the same or similar materials. Tom DeLonge described the material as "layers of different materials" consisting of bismuth and magnesium. Jacques Vallée also referred to these as "magnesium." Colavito argues that this information has circulated among ufologists for decades and has long been explained. He notes that TSAAS announced plans to investigate these "mysterious metal fragments" using a company called Earth Tech International, led by Hal Puthoff.

Colavito concludes that either DeLonge and Bigelow genuinely believe they are investigating alien-made metal, or they are aware of the truth and are not revealing it. He questions why they would withhold the truth.

Hidden Motives

Colavito also analyzed the structure of Tom DeLonge's company, TSAAS, in December 2017. He found it to be a highly profitable business, securing at least $100,000 annually for DeLonge in royalties, with employee salaries paid before other expenses. Funds are then allocated to book releases, films, merchandise, and promotion of UFOs and their technology, with research funds allocated last. The exact amount DeLonge earns from this promotional aspect is unknown.

TSAAS aims to raise capital by selling shares, valuing itself at $50 million and offering 10,000 shares. Payments are expected over seven years, potentially explaining the gradual release of new material to the public. This strategy might also explain why the "mysterious metals" are described as "classified" even if the program itself was not, and why they are ultimately controlled by Bigelow.

Public Perception vs. Reality

Publicly, TSAAS often presents itself as an educational and informational organization. However, Colavito believes it is essentially a "money-making machine" based on entertainment, as its website describes it as an "entertainment business." While DeLonge is not on the board, Hal Puthoff is, and Luis Elizondo holds a prominent position as a full-time employee, indicating clear financial interests.

Although several employees are involved in TSAAS, Bigelow himself does not appear to be directly involved in the business. However, questions have arisen about how he spent the $22 million from the government. A Newsweek article in May quoted an unnamed Bigelow executive stating the funds were used for studies on poltergeists, invisible beings, and bizarre creatures, all considered part of the same phenomenon. This might explain why Bigelow is not forthcoming about how the money was spent and what taxpayers received in return.

Colavito presented his findings on the likely identity of the "mysterious metals," the connections between Bigelow's company and DeLonge's TSAAS, and the financial interests behind the Pentagon investigation to Ralph Blumenthal, a journalist who co-authored the New York Times articles that brought the issue to light. Colavito felt it was journalistically irresponsible not to present this side of the story. To his disappointment, he was not only rejected but also indirectly threatened with legal action. The report suggests that Blumenthal and Kean, like DeLonge, are UFO enthusiasts who may prioritize a compelling narrative over strict facts.

Another Round in the Media Carousel

This article is a brief summary of recent media coverage, leaving the reader confused. The report places responsibility for this confusion on the TSAAS team, who could have released all their material to the public instead of prolonging the process for financial gain and drip-feeding partial truths to UFO enthusiasts. The situation is likened to a media carousel where progress seems to be made, but ultimately, no ground is gained. The only beneficiaries are those selling tickets, illustrating ufology as a modern money-making machine.

Selected Photo Cases

This section, by Ole Henningsen, presents several photo cases. One case involves a short video sequence uploaded to SUFOI's Facebook group on May 22, 2018, by a member in Odense, Denmark. The user asked if a small light in the night sky was a satellite. The consensus was that it was the International Space Station (ISS).

Another case from Copenhagen on May 22, 2018, also involved a short video of a light in the night sky, identified as ISS. The report refers to Toke Haunstrup's overview on www.ufo.dk for information on identifying ISS and other satellites.

A third case from Korsør, Denmark, on May 27, 2018, involved another member uploading a video sequence, commenting, "I have a video of a light object that I filmed a few days ago. The video was filmed in Korsør on 27/5-18 at 0:23. The light object flies approximately from West to East." The observer provided detailed data that helped SUFOI and other debaters identify the object as ISS. The video showed the ISS passing near the Moon, further documenting its presence in the southern sky.

The observer shared four screenshots from the video, with one particularly interesting screenshot showing what appeared to be a "person" from the right side, with a visible head, shoulder, arm, chest, and legs. However, SUFOI's photo department could not confirm the presence of a person in the image. The report explains that the apparent "person" is likely an artifact of the camera's autofocus function, which attempts to sharpen the image of the bright light against the dark sky, causing a larger, blurry light patch.

Downscaling of SUFOI's Photo Department

Ole Henningsen gradually took over the registration and detailed investigation of Danish UFO photo cases starting in 2005, eventually inheriting most of the photo department's older archive materials. His motivation was a fascination with UFO recordings and the detective work involved in finding explanations. He believed that a thoroughly examined photo could potentially document the unidentified and unknown aspects of a UFO experience.

After over 10 years of intense investigation of 750 registered Danish UFO sightings, Henningsen's work has largely supported observers' claims of seeing unusual phenomena. However, the material consistently shows that these initially unidentified phenomena had natural explanations. Thus, no truly unidentified or unknown elements could be documented.

Ole Henningsen plans to scale back his work on new photo cases by the end of 2018/19, focusing instead on completing older, unfinished cases and other investigations. Photographers are now directed to report their observations and recordings to www.ufo.dk, or share them on Facebook under "Skandinavisk UFO Information – Debatforum" for discussion.

Join SUFOI's Support Circle in 2019

The Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI) association operates on volunteer labor, aiming to provide the public with serious information about the UFO myth through ufo.dk and to register observations of unusual aerial phenomena. Financial contributions enable SUFOI to maintain ufo.dk and investigate UFO experiences. Support circle members for 2019 have no obligations. Donations can be made via giro or online banking. Members can also receive a free book by providing their name, address, and order number.

Four book titles are offered: "Mysteriet om UFO'er" by Kim Møller Hansen, "UFO'er – Myter og viden" by Per Borgaard et al., and "Firestorm – Dr. James E. McDonald's Fight For UFO Science" by Ann Druffel.

SUFOI's Purpose

SUFOI's purpose is to disseminate well-founded knowledge about the UFO myth and phenomena that can create UFO experiences. The UFO myth is understood as the narratives, experiences, and beliefs associated with the concept of a UFO, which evolve over time in conjunction with historical and cultural factors. The term "UFO" itself is considered by SUFOI as a collective term for the diverse phenomena that can be part of reports on unusual aerial phenomena.

SUFOI's Vision

SUFOI's vision is to inform about phenomena that can create UFO experiences, provide the public with well-founded knowledge about the many aspects of the UFO myth, and use acquired experiences and knowledge to offer a balanced perspective on myth-creating phenomena.

The Book of Mysterious Finds

The report features Ole Henningsen's new book, "Ildkugler over Danmark – om sten der aldrig fløj" (Fireballs over Denmark – about stones that never flew). The book, 134 pages in A4 format with color and black-and-white illustrations, an index, and source references, has a foreword by astrophysicist Michael Linden-Vørnle. Copies can be purchased through SUFOI's online store for 159 DKK plus 45 DKK for postage/expedition, or as an e-book from SAXO. Membership in SUFOI's Support Circle (minimum 250 DKK) also includes a copy of the book.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this report are critical examination of UFO claims, the financial aspects of ufology, the psychological tendency towards pareidolia, and the importance of evidence-based investigation. The editorial stance is skeptical, emphasizing natural explanations for alleged UFO phenomena and questioning the motives and transparency of organizations involved in UFO research, particularly when financial interests are apparent. The report advocates for rigorous investigation and clear documentation, while acknowledging the human tendency to find patterns where none may exist.