SUFOI Intern - 1997 06

Magazine Overview

This document is the June 1997 issue of "SUFOI INTERN," an internal newsletter from SUFOI (Skandinavisk UFO Information) intended for its representative council. It provides updates on the organization's activities, news, and upcoming events.

SUFOI HEADLINES !

The issue highlights several key developments: increased activity within the AC (likely an operational department) including a new photo case and a relocation; a new media record with over 1 million viewers; an internet record with over 1,700 visitors in a month; a SUFOI survey indicating that one in three Danes are aware of the organization; the release of a new series of booklets by Kim Møller Hansen on UFO classics; and an upcoming SUFOI lecture at a Brazilian UFO congress in December.

Important Dates and Deadlines

Key dates for members include the SUFOI anniversary party on October 4th, a representative meeting on October 5th, and the SUFOI congress on November 1st. Deadlines for submissions are also noted: 'Næste Intern' (Next Internal) is due July 10th, and 'UFO-Nyt' issue number 3 is due July 2nd.

Observation Reports

Many Reports, A Quiet Plea and An Appeal!

Authored by Toke Haunstrup, this section details a busy period for SUFOI, with approximately 100 reports received in the first four months of the year. A special thanks is extended to participants in the Alarm Central rotation for their efforts. The author appeals to report recorders to be more thorough in processing cases to ensure timely publication in 'UFO-Nyt' and prevent older cases from being delayed for months or years. Reporters are encouraged to write up interesting cases they have worked on, assuring them that their writing skills are not a barrier as texts are proofread.

New on Observations - By Toke Haunstrup

This section details specific UFO/UAP sightings:

• February 16, 1997: A 24-year-old female student and her boyfriend, on vacation near Sønderborg, Denmark, observed an unusual, elongated, strongly luminous phenomenon near Dybbøl Mølle. It initially hovered horizontally, then tilted vertically twice before disappearing. It was observed for about 1 minute and 30 seconds and remained positioned to the southwest. Minutes later, a similar phenomenon appeared briefly to the west. Later, around 12:55 PM, another luminous object with a 'metallic sheen' was observed moving steadily southwest to northeast, stopping abruptly and disappearing. The observer caught a glimpse of it in a new position, with this last observation lasting over 30 seconds. The reporter, KA, was interviewed, and while the description and drawings suggest light reflections from an aircraft, certain details, like the 'tilting' movement, do not align with this explanation.
• March 6, 1997: A 31-year-old student in Odense, Denmark, observed an object at approximately 8:40 PM. Initially mistaken for a satellite due to its speed, the observer noted 'wing-like' features that were sharply defined. The object moved across the entire sky in about five seconds, from southwest to northeast, disappearing at an altitude of nearly 45 degrees. The color was described as beige or dark brown, with no visible lights. The case was initially handled by Egon Olsen at the Alarm Central.
• June 1974: A photographer in Tønder, Denmark, while on vacation in Spain with six friends, observed a peculiar aerial phenomenon described as a long, white-glowing 'streak' that expanded to cover a large part of the sky. The photographer took several pictures, copies of which were received by SUFOI. Ole Henningsen, head of SUFOI's photo department, believes it is likely the effect of a rocket launch, with a more detailed report expected in 'UFO-Nyt'.

Activities

SUFOI Sets Media Record - By Per Andersen

On May 27th, SUFOI's Copenhagen group held an open house with lectures. A press release was sent out, leading to significant media attention. Both TV-Avisen (DR1) and Nyhederne (TV2) produced segments based on a video from Albertslund. Vagn Simonsen from TV2 filmed an interview at Per Andersen's home, and later that evening, TV-Avisen also filmed at Albertslund. The segments aired on the same evening, reaching over 1 million viewers, a new SUFOI record. DR2 had also planned a segment but canceled due to news about Yeltsin and NATO. Toke Haunstrup also contributed by promoting the event on radio.

Per Andersen also appeared on A-pressens radio and was featured in the TV Denmark programs "Yderzoner" (about crop circles) and "Puls." In total, SUFOI had 4 TV and 2 radio appearances in that week. The written press also covered the event, with articles in Politiken and Berlingske.

Open House in Vanløse - By Per Andersen

The May 27th event in Vanløse was a success, attracting about 60 participants and generating a surplus of DKK 650, with DKK 1250 in material sales. The lectures, including those on Roswell and the PORT project, generated mixed opinions, but SUFOI's serious approach to the subject was reaffirmed.

Vagn Simonsen Follow-up - By Per Andersen

SUFOI was featured again on TV2 Nyhederne, with Vagn Simonsen reporting on the Albertslund video. Simonsen's report focused on a large hot air balloon launched by young people, but the details about the balloon's appearance and launch timing did not match the video evidence. SUFOI is attempting to contact the individuals involved.

SUFOI to Brazil - By Per Andersen

Per Andersen received an invitation to give a UFO lecture at the "First World UFO Forum" in Brasilia, Brazil, in December. The event, organized by A.J. Gevaerd and LBV, will feature approximately 30-40 international speakers, including notable figures like Bud Hopkins, Gordon Cooper, and Stanton Friedman. Despite the event's focus on spacecraft, Andersen plans to attend to represent Denmark, with travel, accommodation, and meals covered.

UFOernes Verden - By Per Andersen

Kim Møller Hansen has published a four-part series titled "UFOernes verden - klassiske beretninger Jorden rundt" (UFOs of the World - Classic Accounts from Around the Globe). The series, totaling 218 pages, covers classic UFO cases based on articles previously published in 'UFO-Nyt' from 1981 to 1986. The booklets are sold as a set for DKK 126, with representative members receiving a free set.

Another Publication - By Per Andersen

In commemoration of the UFO anniversary year, Fortean Times has published the book "UFO 1947-1997," edited by Hilary Evans and Dennis Stacy. This 272-page book includes a contribution from Kim Møller Hansen about the Viborg ball lightning case. SUFOI has a few copies available for sale at DKK 160 each.

Every Third Dane Knows SUFOI - By Per Andersen

SUFOI has completed a public opinion poll conducted by a student who interviewed 100 randomly selected Danes. Key findings include:

• Nearly 30% of the population knows SUFOI, primarily through media reports. This awareness is higher than for organizations like the Astronomical Society and IGAP. Few respondents know 'UFO-Nyt'.
• Belief in UFOs and the percentage of people who claim to have seen one align with previous Gallup polls: 46% believe in UFOs, and 12% claim to have seen one. The term 'UFO' is most often associated with spaceships or alien intelligence.
• Even among those who know SUFOI, more than 40% would not report an observation to the organization.
• Knowledge about common celestial phenomena is surprisingly low. Despite awareness of Hale-Bopp, 39% believe comets move quickly across the sky, 56% think shooting stars last less than 2 minutes, 39% believe satellites can hover, 51% believe satellites can change course, 68% think the moon appears larger near the horizon, 19% believe airplane sounds are always audible, and 25% believe northern lights are not visible in Denmark.
• Regarding known celestial phenomena, half of the respondents answered 3-4 questions incorrectly. Those who believe UFOs are spaceships, and men in general, showed higher average knowledge. There was no correlation with age or education.

A report on these findings will be prepared and sent to the representative council.

New on Light Pollution - By Per Andersen

SUFOI has published a report on the prevalence of searchlights in Denmark, detailing 10 incidents from Q4 1996. The report indicates that searchlights have been observed at distances of 25-30 km. It has been sent to the Ministry of Environment, the Forest and Nature Agency, and the Astronomical Society. Interested parties can order a copy.

The Forest and Nature Agency has stated that a working group will be formed to address light pollution once the report from the light pollution conference is available, focusing on existing legislation.

Marianne Asks Again - By Per Andersen

Following up on a previous report about Carl Petersen in Viborg contacting members, only one person responded. However, Marianne Rasmussen from Fyn contacted SUFOI's subscriber in Viborg, stating that UFOs are peaceful and can be conversed with. Carl Petersen added that they don't understand what is being said, to which she replied, "Yes, yes - they just translate it!". It remains unclear how Marianne Rasmussen obtained Carl Petersen's phone number, as she is not a subscriber and did not receive his letter.

New on Congress - By Per Andersen

Preparations for the congress are progressing well, with most areas covered. A detailed work plan will be distributed soon, along with a program for members and interested individuals.

New on Anniversary Celebration - By Per Andersen

Preparations for the anniversary celebration on October 4th are underway. A flyer is included for attendees to fill out and return.

Internet News - By Per Andersen

As of June 15th, www.sufoi.dk had 6,275 visitors, a record increase of 1,761 from the previous month, partly due to extensive media coverage and the May event in Vanløse. Efforts to register www.ufo.dk were unsuccessful as an American site had already registered it. SUFOI is considering registering www.igap.dk instead.

New on People

Email Addresses

A list of representative members' email addresses is provided, including Per Andersen, Lars H. Andersen, Kim Møller Hansen, Toke Haunstrup, Ole Henningsen, Peter Nørgaard, and Henrik Klinge.

Toke Has New Address

As of June 1st, Toke Haunstrup and the Report Central have moved to Østerbro in Copenhagen. Their new address is G. A. Hagemanns Kollegium, Kristianiagade 10, 2100 København Ø, with phone numbers 35 26 03 13 + 951.

Delays - By Per Andersen

Due to family illness, delays are expected in various areas covered by Per Andersen, who apologizes for any inconvenience.

Dry Data

No new financial or membership data is available.

Letter to Representative Council Members

This section contains a letter dated June 29, 1992, from Per Andersen regarding the upcoming 40th-anniversary celebration of SUFOI on October 4th at Vanløse Beboerhus Lindersvold, followed by a representative meeting. The evening will feature a buffet, live music, entertainment, and an auction. Attendees are asked to fill out and return an enclosed form to help with planning, noting that space is limited.

SUFOI Support Fest October 4, 1997

This is a form for attendees to register for the October 4th celebration, indicating the number of people attending and their names. It also includes sections for suggestions for entertainment, items to donate to the auction, personal contributions to entertainment, help with food preparation, and general assistance before/during the event. The form is to be sent to Per Andersen as soon as possible.

Reports During the Period 1/5 - 31/5 1997

This is a detailed log of UFO/UAP observations recorded between May 1st and May 31st, 1997. Each entry includes the observation date and time, duration, location (post office and town name), colors, number of objects observed, and status. Locations mentioned include Taulov, Fredericia, Ålborg, Middelfart, Hjeds, Suldrup, Græsted, Frederiksberg, København NV, Bromme, Sorø, Hornbæk, Skelskør, Hvidovre, Vedbæk, Herlev, Værløse, Dragør, Frederiksværk, Virum, Rødovre, Bagsværd, Brønshøj, and Glostrup. The reports describe various phenomena, including white, red-yellow, red, green, and clear lights, some described as 'projector lights' or 'laser lights'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are SUFOI's active engagement in media outreach and its efforts to set records in public awareness and internet presence. The organization appears to be in a growth phase, actively seeking to expand its reach and influence. There's a strong emphasis on documenting and reporting UFO sightings, with a call for improved reporting quality. The editorial stance is one of proactive engagement, seeking to inform the public and professional bodies about UFO phenomena while maintaining a serious and evidence-based approach. The publication also highlights the international connections SUFOI is making, such as the invitation to Brazil. The survey results underscore a public interest in UFOs, though often based on misconceptions, which SUFOI aims to address through its work and publications.

This issue of Eksistens, a section of Berlingske Tidende, dated Saturday, May 31, 1997, is dedicated to the topic of UFOs and extraterrestrial phenomena. The cover story, "Sandheden er sjældent SÅ LANGT UDE" (The truth is rarely SO FAR OUT), suggests a deep dive into the subject. The magazine features articles, interviews, and reports related to UFO sightings, research, and organizations.

SUFOI: 40 Years of UFO Investigation

The magazine highlights the 40th anniversary of Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI), an organization dedicated to collecting and investigating reports of unidentified flying objects (UFOs). Per Andersen, the chairman of SUFOI, notes a recent increase in public interest and media attention, partly fueled by popular culture like the film 'Independence Day' and TV series 'X-Files'. However, he observes that this interest is more passive, with fewer people actively engaging in research or reading UFO-related publications. Andersen expresses a mixed view on the entertainment industry's portrayal of UFOs, acknowledging its role in keeping the myths alive but also criticizing it as pure entertainment.

Key UFO Events and Sightings

The issue details several UFO-related events and sightings:

• Albertslund Sighting: A young man and his mother observed a strange, black object in the sky during daylight. The object rotated slowly and then moved away. Toke Haunstrup, SUFOI's vice-chairman, was to discuss this further.
• Jyderup Observation: Curd Frandsen reported seeing a large, flying triangular disc-shaped object, approximately 20 meters high and 300 meters wide, with a triangular hole in the middle. He described it as having metallic plates and a golden finish, moving at about 100 km/h before accelerating away.
• Roswell Incident: The magazine revisits the infamous 1947 Roswell incident, where a supposed alien spaceship crashed. Per Andersen was scheduled to present an overview of the latest research into this case.
• H.C. Petersen's Experiences: The issue features a prominent article about H.C. Petersen, a retired flight officer and chairman of an international UFO organization. Petersen claims to have witnessed over 50 UFO observations throughout his life, including an incident in 1955 at Flyvestation Skrydstrup where radar detected objects moving at 18,000 km/h. He also recounts seeing large objects in 1943 and 1953. Petersen categorizes UFOs into four types: motherships, flying saucers, underwater objects, and small remote-controlled 'telemeterskiver'. He believes extraterrestrials are friendly and that they initiate contact.
• SUFOI's Registration Data: SUFOI registered 181 reports from June to December 1996, a significant increase from the 84 reports in the previous period (December 1995 to May 1996). The magazine notes that at least 55 of these cases could be explained by searchlights or laser lights over cities, but other phenomena remain unexplained.
• Stenløse Sighting: A woman reported waking to a loud humming sound and seeing a light spot in her bedroom, followed by two lights in the sky that moved rapidly upwards and disappeared, leaving a condensation trail. Her family cat also exhibited signs of distress.
• Kokborg/Brande Sighting: An account from a couple near Kokborg describes observing a large, square object with four lights (green, blue, white, and red) moving slowly across the sky, emitting a humming vibration. A possible explanation offered is a military exercise involving a Hercules transport plane.

Government and UFOs

The magazine includes correspondence from the Ministry of Environment and Energy regarding the use of searchlights and other light sources at night. Minister Svend Auken acknowledged the material sent by SUFOI and stated that the Danish Forest and Nature Agency would coordinate efforts to address problems related to light pollution, potentially forming a working group to review existing legislation.

UFOs in Popular Culture and Public Perception

Articles discuss how films like 'Independence Day' and TV series like 'X-Files' have heightened public awareness of UFOs. Per Andersen comments on the fascination with the unexplained, comparing it to the appeal of science fiction. He also expresses concern that a significant portion of the Danish population lacks basic astronomical knowledge, making them more susceptible to misinterpreting phenomena.

SUFOI's Mission and Future

SUFOI aims to provide a credible and serious approach to UFO phenomena. Despite a decline in membership since the late 1970s, the organization plans to become more 'aggressive' in its public outreach to ensure the UFO topic is treated with credibility, even if it causes discomfort to some believers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent interest in UFOs, the challenges of scientifically verifying such phenomena, the role of organizations like SUFOI in documenting sightings, and the influence of popular culture on public perception. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry and documentation, aiming to present factual information and encourage critical thinking about UFOs, while also acknowledging the public's fascination with the unknown. The magazine emphasizes that while many sightings can be explained, a core of unexplained events continues to fuel research and public curiosity.

This issue of 'Eksistens', dated Saturday, May 31, 1997, from Berlingske Tidende, delves into various facets of UFO phenomena, religion, and emerging scientific concepts. The cover story, "Amerikansk kirurg hævder at have beviserne: MENNESKER KIDNAPPES AF UFO-VÆSNER" (American surgeon claims to have evidence: HUMANS ARE KIDNAPPED BY UFO BEINGS), sets a tone of intrigue and investigation.

SUFOI's Evolving Stance

The magazine features an article by Kristian Lindberg titled "Kredse vil opleve det som en kritik mod de troende«. Men hvem er egentlig de troende, når det handler om UFOer?" (Circles will experience it as criticism against the believers. But who are the believers when it comes to UFOs?). This piece discusses a meeting of Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI) in Vanløse, where chairman Per Andersen presented a skeptical analysis of the Roswell incident. Andersen himself leans towards the explanation of a crashed, top-secret military balloon rather than an alien spacecraft, a view that elicits mixed reactions from the audience. The article highlights SUFOI's motto: "Vi tror ikke på alt men vi tror alt bør undersøges" (We don't believe everything, but we believe everything should be investigated), indicating a shift towards a more rational and research-oriented approach within the organization.

Per Andersen, who also works as a marketing director, explains that SUFOI aims to treat the UFO subject more seriously, even when it involves criticizing believers. He acknowledges that many readers of their publication, UFO-Nyt, prefer more sensational stories about UFOs and spaceships, but SUFOI is committed to presenting a more critical perspective. The organization is even undertaking a research project to investigate the psychological background of UFO witnesses.

The Raël Movement: UFOs, Cloning, and Divine Beings

Mikael Rothstein's article, "En UFO-religion med styr på generne!" (A UFO religion with control over genes!), introduces the International Raëlian Movement. Founded by Claude Vorilhon (known as Raël) in 1976, this movement reinterprets Jewish-Christian religious motifs through a scientific and UFO-centric lens. Raël claims to have received messages from highly developed beings from another planet, the Elohim, who he believes created life on Earth through advanced genetic engineering. The movement views the Bible as a metaphorical account of the Elohim's work. They anticipate the Elohim's return to Earth in 2025, with a landing site planned near Jerusalem. The Raël Movement actively promotes cloning and genetic technology, seeing it as a path to eternal life. They have established a company called Valiant Venture Ltd. and its cloning service, CLONAID, which offers cloning for a fee of $200,000, aiming to allow people to achieve immortality by cloning themselves.

Alien Abductions and Implants

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the claims of Dr. Roger Leir, an American surgeon who asserts he has removed small, high-tech devices from patients who claim to have been abducted by extraterrestrial beings. The article "Amerikansk kirurg hævder at have beviserne: MENNESKER KIDNAPPES AF UFO-VÆSNER" (American surgeon claims to have evidence: HUMANS ARE KIDNAPPED BY UFO BEINGS) by John Cooke and Finn Paske details Leir's findings. These implants, described as metallic with biological components and encased in a crystal-like material, are allegedly impossible to trace back to any known terrestrial technology. Leir suggests they might be receivers or transmitters used to control or monitor abductees. The article also features the testimony of Pat Parrinello, one of Leir's patients, who recounts an alleged abduction experience and the subsequent removal of an implant from his hand.

Debunking Myths: Pyramids and Crop Circles

Another article, "Aflivning af myterne" (Busting the Myths) by Leif Ahm, addresses common beliefs linking UFOs to ancient pyramids and crop circles. Citing National Geographic's television program, the article debunks the idea that aliens assisted in building the Egyptian pyramids, presenting archaeological evidence of workers' bakeries and quarries, suggesting a large-scale, organized human effort. Regarding crop circles, the article notes that while mysterious, experts like Pat Delgado and Colin Andrews, despite initially promoting alien theories, have increasingly pointed towards human intervention or natural phenomena, such as unusual wind patterns, as explanations.

Religious and Philosophical Reflections

Nils Gunder Hansen's editorial, "Du som er i himlen" (You who are in heaven), reflects on the theological implications of the search for extraterrestrial life. He discusses how the possibility of life beyond Earth can lead to contrasting conclusions: either humanity is fundamentally alone and insignificant, or the improbability of life suggests a higher guiding force. Hansen explores how different theological perspectives, including Christian views, grapple with the concept of life on other planets, emphasizing that the core of faith lies in understanding our place in the universe and our relationship with the divine, regardless of whether we are alone.

Other Content

The magazine also includes a brief note about a UFO meeting in Vanløse, mentioning Per Andersen and a phone number for information. There's also a section on language, discussing the gender of the word 'UFO' in Danish, and a report from a local business association meeting in Hørning where criticism of the secretary's public statements led to a decision that only the chairman would speak to the press. A small piece titled "Bryllup med magi: SKAR I BRUDEN" (Wedding with magic: CUT INTO THE BRIDE) describes a wedding where magicians Sue Hewitson and Andy Hobbs performed a trick involving knives.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards sensational UFO claims, the intersection of science and religion (particularly with the Raël Movement), and the investigation of alleged paranormal phenomena like alien abductions and crop circles. The editorial stance, as exemplified by SUFOI's approach and the debunking of myths, leans towards critical analysis and scientific inquiry, while still acknowledging the public's fascination with the unknown. The magazine aims to provide a balanced perspective, exploring both the believers' perspectives and the skeptics' counterarguments.