SUFOI Nyhedsbrev - 1996 11 No 3

Magazine Overview

This document is the "SUFOI NYHEDSBREV" (SUFOI Newsletter), issue number 3, dated November 1996. SUFOI stands for Skandinavisk UFO Information, indicating it is a Scandinavian UFO information organization. The publication is in Danish and appears to be a regular newsletter for members and interested parties.

Editorial Information and Production

The newsletter is edited by Per Andersen, with copyright held by SUFOI in 1996. The organization, Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI), is based in Gentofte, Denmark, and provides contact numbers for UFO alarms and general information. Production and distribution are handled by Burre Reklame in Silkeborg, and the magazine is distributed by SUFOI's Expedition in Åbenrå. Readers are encouraged to report address changes promptly. The editorial team welcomes articles, letters to the editor, and debate contributions. The newsletter is published in odd-numbered months, with deadlines on the 15th of even-numbered months for the subsequent issue.

Subscription Information

An subscription for 1996 (3 issues) and the entirety of 1997 (6 issues) costs 120.00 DKK. Payment can be made via giro to account 9 11 77 25 at SUFOI, Postboks 6, 2820 Gentofte. This subscription is exclusively for subscribers of "UFO-Nyt". The ISSN for the newsletter is 1396-545X.

Article: "EN APPELSIN I TURBANEN" (An Orange in the Turban)

This article, written by Per Andersen, discusses a significant opportunity for SUFOI to produce a serious, Danish-language video about UFOs. Previously, the high cost of professional video production had made this a distant dream. However, a chance arose through a collaboration with an advertising agency working on a campaign for a chips company, Estrella. As part of this campaign, which will be rolled out in 2,000 stores, consumers can send in a coupon to receive a free Danish UFO video. SUFOI is contributing material and expertise to this video, which will also feature SUFOI itself. The key benefit for SUFOI is that this initiative costs them nothing financially, while providing a platform to educate thousands of Danes about UFOs, UFO-Nyt, and the SUFOI organization. The article acknowledges that this partnership might raise questions about SUFOI's commercial involvement and potential compromise of its seriousness. However, after careful consideration of the campaign's messages and SUFOI's core mission of providing serious UFO information in Denmark, the decision was made that this is an exceptional opportunity to raise SUFOI's profile without sacrificing credibility. The author likens this opportunity to "an orange falling into our turban."

Section: "NYT OM OBSERVATIONER" (News on Observations)

"MANGE RAPPORTER" (Many Reports) by Toke Haunstrup

September saw a significant number of UFO observation reports, with a notable surge related to projector lights near Næstved. Overall, the number of reports was higher than normal. The observation list indicates that SUFOI's contact center (AC) received around 60 inquiries in August-September, excluding the Næstved case. The organization has improved its process of forwarding reports to local contact persons, with approximately 35-40% of inquiries now being passed on. This is seen as a positive development, ensuring better utilization of resources and keeping active members engaged.

"PROJEKTØRLYS GIVER TELEFONSTORM" (Projector Lights Cause Telephone Storm) by Toke Haunstrup

This section details an incident where a shopping center's PR team used three 3000W projectors for its 5th-anniversary celebration, causing a massive influx of calls to the emergency services and SUFOI. While SUFOI acknowledges the public nuisance and the strain on resources, they also recognize the significant PR value generated by such events, which often attract media attention. The incident near Næstved was preceded by similar events, such as projector lights at a discotheque in Stege. On September 29th, calls flooded the emergency center from people in South Zealand describing lights moving in patterns. The emergency center quickly identified them as likely projector lights. The volume of calls was so high that they resorted to using an answering machine. The following days saw continued observations, with approximately 50 observers contacting the emergency center. Even the police in Slagelse inquired about SUFOI's registrations. This suggests that SUFOI's previous outreach to police stations about their "70 20" number may have been effective. A press release, seemingly from a local police station, mentioned SUFOI and identified the source as three powerful projectors at a Bilka-center near Næstved. Emil from SUFOI had already identified the source by contacting various police stations and Bilka directly. The press release amplified media interest, leading to interviews on P3 radio and Channel 2, as well as several daily newspapers. Although SUFOI was not directly involved in a Channel 2 broadcast featuring witnesses, Per Andersen was interviewed on "Station-3" (P3), though the segment regrettably focused on unrelated 'little green men' rather than the projector lights. Despite the off-topic nature of some media coverage, the emergency center's number was mentioned twice. This mass observation event was one of the most significant SUFOI had experienced related to projector lights, and Emil handled the media interactions effectively.

Section: "NORDJYSKE OBSERVATIONER" (North Jutland Observations)

"NORDJYSKE OBSERVATIONER" by Torben Birkeholm

There were no UFO observation reports from North Jutland in September. While Torben Birkeholm occasionally receives cases via the emergency center, recent reports have been from outside the usual operational area. The season for night lights has begun, suggesting more reports may follow.

Section: "NYT FRA DE LOKALE GRUPPER" (News from Local Groups)

SUFOI-AALBORG by Torben Birkeholm

The Aalborg group held meetings on August 21st and October 2nd. The attendance consisted mainly of long-time members, and new members have been scarce. The group discussed SUFOI's upcoming anniversary and the possibility of a local event. They realized that SUFOI-Aalborg itself has a significant anniversary approaching: 25 years in February 1998. Plans are being made to celebrate this milestone, potentially incorporating elements from the national organization's 1997 event. The next meeting is scheduled for November 6th in Frejlev, hosted by Rud, and their Christmas lunch will be on November 29th.

SUFOI-KØBENHAVN (Copenhagen) by Per Andersen

The Copenhagen SUFOI group resumed its activities in September. Key discussion points included recent observations and planning for the season's activities. Their October meeting focused on a video titled "The Age of Flying Saucers" by Jack Kasher, which sparked considerable debate. Future meetings will include follow-up discussions on the space shuttle video, potentially screening the Roswell film, a lecture by Kurt Abildskov (IGAP-oriented) in December, and a presentation by Mikael Rothstein in January. The group also has plans for an open meeting in February, a public event in May involving an observer sharing their experience, and an observation trip in April to Bjarne and Susanne's summer house. A major public event is planned for May 13, 1997, in Vanløse.

Section: "PROJEKTER" (Projects)

"ANSØGNING FRA UKRAINE" (Application from Ukraine) by Per Andersen

SUFOI received an application from its Ukrainian partners, the Research Institute on Anomalous Phenomena (RIAP), for a collaboration on their newsletter, "RIAP Bulletin." RIAP is facing financial difficulties and requested financial support from SUFOI in exchange for certain rights to their content and co-publication status. SUFOI responded that their limited funds are primarily reserved for research projects and that they could not enter into a publication partnership at this time. Furthermore, SUFOI assessed that "RIAP Bulletin" does not yet meet the professional standard they can endorse. However, SUFOI expressed continued interest in supporting actual research projects in the region.

Section: "SUFOI AKTIVITETER" (SUFOI Activities)

"KOMMENTAR FRA LÆSER" (Reader's Comment)

The newsletter quotes a reader's letter expressing appreciation for SUFOI's work. The reader believes that despite many explanations for observations, a residual unexplained element drives SUFOI's "unique work." They enjoy reading both "UFO-Nyt" and the SUFOI newsletter, finding them "fortunately neutral and 'non-religious'."

Article: "SUFOI-KAMPAGNE I JANUAR/FEBRUAR" (SUFOI Campaign in January/February) by Per Andersen

This article details the preparations for a major UFO campaign scheduled for January/February, in which SUFOI has a significant role. The campaign is being organized by the chips company Estrella and its advertising agency, Sorensen's, as a nationwide in-store promotion during weeks 2 to 11 of the following year. SUFOI is responsible for the UFO content, while Sorensen's handles material production and costs. The campaign's main features include:

• Chip stands in approximately 2,000 stores.
• Posters with UFO motifs featuring SUFOI's name and logo, promoting a UFO video, a UFO magazine, and a competition for a trip to Roswell.
• Distribution of a folder briefly referencing UFO observations and mentioning UFO-Nyt and SUFOI under the heading "Do you want to know more about UFOs?".
• Consumers sending in Estrella logos can receive:
• 2 logos: A special edition of UFO-Nyt, expanded to 12 pages with a 4-color cover. Estrella covers all printing and distribution costs, with an estimated 5,000-10,000 copies to be sent out.
• 4 logos: A special UFO video produced with SUFOI's involvement. The video, approximately 30 minutes long, will feature an Estrella logo at the beginning and end, but the content will be entirely SUFOI's. Per Andersen is involved in the entire production process.
• SUFOI will receive 100 extra copies of this video for their own use (e.g., sales to members).
• Estrella has also agreed to sponsor SUFOI's congress the following year, providing a grant of 7,500 DKK, which is expected to secure the congress's finances.

Section: "INTERNET OG E.MAIL" (Internet and E-mail)

SUFOI has launched its website at http://www.geocities.com/Area51/2573. The organization's e-mail address has been updated to [email protected].

Section: "STOR MEDIEINTERESSE" (Great Media Interest) by Toke Haunstrup

SUFOI has experienced a recent increase in media interest, attributed to two main factors: the upcoming premiere of the movie "The Independence Day" and the numerous projector light observations near Næstved (September 29 - October 1). The author, Toke Haunstrup, participated in three interviews in September, including one for the regional TV station TV2-Øst. He was also interviewed by a radio journalist from Copenhagen about UFOs in general, which resulted in a lengthy interview. Additionally, a journalist from the youth magazine "Vi unge" interviewed him about UFOs in connection with the "Independence Day" premiere, involving a somewhat unusual photo shoot. He also recalls an interview with TB for TV2-Nordjylland where Torben played the role of a snowman. Finally, he was contacted by a TV2-Øst journalist regarding an observation near Kalvehave on September 7th, where lights were seen moving in peculiar patterns. The journalist inquired if SUFOI could solve the mystery.

Section: "INTERNET OG E.MAIL" (Internet and E-mail) - Continued

Per Andersen contacted EVJ, who confirmed receiving 3-4 reports about observations in the Kalvehave area during the previous weekend. Based on consistent accounts, EVJ concluded it was likely projector/laser lights and did not pursue it further. With TV2-Øst's involvement, Per Andersen obtained the contact details of the observers and gathered more information. One observer mentioned hearing about projector lights from a discotheque in Stege (located on Møn, east of Kalvehave). After an unsuccessful attempt to contact the discotheque directly, Per Andersen contacted another observer who knew a bartender at the venue. The bartender confirmed that projector lights had been active on Friday and Saturday nights. The TV2-Øst journalist was informed of these findings, and Per Andersen traveled to Vordingborg for an interview. The resulting 3-4 minute segment, featuring cross-cuts between Per Andersen's statements and the observer's interview, was broadcast on regional news on Friday, September 13th. Other SUFOI members, including Emil, Egon, and Per, also appeared in the media. Emil and Per were interviewed regarding the Næstved projector light incident. Egon contacted the Vejle Amts Folkeblad to solicit witnesses for an observation from the Give area. A resulting article led to contact with a military source who revealed a military exercise involving low-flying Hercules aircraft on the night of the observation, aligning with the witness descriptions. This discovery, thanks to Egon's efforts, identified the cause of that specific observation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently emphasizes SUFOI's commitment to providing serious, neutral, and non-religious information about UFO phenomena. There is a clear focus on distinguishing between genuine unexplained phenomena and misidentifications, such as projector lights or military exercises. The organization actively engages with the media to disseminate information and correct misconceptions, as seen in the Næstved incident and the Give observation. SUFOI also values collaboration, both internally among its members and externally with other organizations, though it maintains a critical stance on the scientific rigor of potential partners, as demonstrated by their response to RIAP. The newsletter also highlights the importance of local groups in furthering SUFOI's mission and fostering community among UFO enthusiasts.

Title: Skandinavisk UFO Information
Issue: 1/8 - 30/9 1996
Date: August 1996
Publisher: Skandinavisk UFO Information
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of Skandinavisk UFO Information delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, research, and cultural impact. It features articles on investigations, personal experiences, and the broader societal fascination with unidentified flying objects.

SUFOI PÅ P3 - Af Per Andersen

Per Andersen recounts an interview with a journalist from Station 3 (P3) who was interested in SUFOI's analysis of alien appearances. The journalist's unusual question about meeting an alien, specifically 'What is the etiquette when meeting a spaceman?', led to an awkward but ultimately humorous situation where the journalist was perceived as the 'idiot' rather than SUFOI.

TELEFONSEDDEL UNDER UDSENDELSE - Af Per Andersen

This section announces the design and distribution of a common telephone form for planetariums, police, and other institutions. This initiative is a result of collaboration between various organizations. 100 blocks of these forms have been printed with financial support from the Astronomical Society and Steno Museum/Planetarium, and they will be distributed by the Geological Museum. Per Andersen expresses gratitude to Toke for successfully navigating this complex and diplomatic process, and anticipation for potential results.

FOREDRAG

Peter Nørgård gave a lecture on September 12th at Hobro School for approximately 25 students who were experiencing a 'mysterious week'.

INDBERETNINGER GENNEM PERIODEN 1/8 - 30/9 1996

This extensive section provides a detailed log of UFO sightings reported to Skandinavisk UFO Information between August 1st and September 30th, 1996. Each entry includes the date and time of observation, duration, location (with postal code and town), number of observers, colors, and any relevant identification or status codes. The data reveals a variety of reported phenomena, including lights, colored objects, and descriptions such as 'laserlys' (laser lights), 'luftskib' (airship), and 'meteor'. Some entries also note the observer's contact person or the status of the report.

STATUSKODER

A key is provided for understanding the status codes used in the 'Indberetninger' section, explaining abbreviations like 'Alarm modtaget' (Alarm received), 'Meddelelse modtaget' (Message received), 'Videregivet til' (Forwarded to), 'Observatør kontaktet' (Observer contacted), 'Skemaer afsendt' (Forms sent), 'Skemaer modtaget' (Forms received), 'Rapport optaget' (Report recorded), and 'Rapport afsendt' (Report sent).

ÅRETS PRISMODTAGER(E)

This section highlights the recipients of two awards:

Gyldendals Lærebogspris 1996

SUFOI, an acronym of 'almost EU-dimensions', is recognized for its significant role. The award goes to Kim Møller Hansen, editor of UFO-Nyt, who has been involved with UFO research since 1986. He is described as a prolific author and editor, also working as a school librarian and teacher. His works, particularly the 'Mysteriet om...' series (also known as 'Den sorte serie'), are popular in libraries, and his 'Samfundsstudier' series is successful in schools. He is praised for his responsibility, creativity, and competence.

Gyldendals Grafikerpris 1996

This award is presented to Carsten Schiøler for his exceptional graphic design work over 10 years. He has designed 10 'Gyldendal Undervisning' autumn catalogs, with creative ideas often supported by the director and Torben Piil. The award is noted as being particularly special as it's the first time this unusual prize has been given.

Hilsen fra de overjordiske?

This article focuses on mysterious crop circles that appeared in a wheat field in Sundby, Denmark. The patterns, visible from the air, have attracted UFO enthusiasts. The article discusses the possibility of these being messages from extraterrestrial civilizations, citing similar incidents in Sweden, Norway, and England. While acknowledging the possibility of hoaxes, the geometric precision of some patterns suggests a more advanced origin, possibly involving large-scale equipment like lasers. The farmer, Jens Toft, is seeking explanations for the phenomenon, hoping for help from others.

UFO-ALARM

This piece describes a course offered by Skandinavisk Ufo Information to train individuals as 'rapportoptagere' (report takers). The course aims to teach participants how to investigate UFO sightings systematically, similar to characters in the TV series 'X-Files'. The article highlights the serious and methodical approach of SUFOI, contrasting it with the more action-packed portrayal in fiction. It details the process of interviewing witnesses, filling out detailed reports, and using tools like clinometers and compasses to measure phenomena. The article also touches upon the classification of UFOs and the challenges of gathering concrete evidence, such as capturing an alien or building a UFO.

Interviewteknik

This section, part of the UFO-Alarm course, emphasizes the importance of interviewing techniques. Peter Nørgård, a SUFOI instructor, stresses the need for a professional and empathetic approach when interviewing witnesses, ensuring they feel heard and can recount their experiences accurately. The goal is to gather precise information for the UFO reports, which are the primary concrete evidence SUFOI possesses.

UFO-RAPPORTSKEMA

An example of the official five-page UFO report form from SUFOI is shown. This form is designed to capture detailed information about UFO observations, including descriptions of the phenomenon, its behavior, and any potential physical effects.

Engle med rumhjelm

This segment discusses the ongoing fascination with flying saucers and the various theories surrounding them, including the idea that angels might be aliens wearing space helmets. The conversation among course participants touches upon social-psychological explanations for UFO phenomena and different theories about the origin of UFOs, such as visitors from other planets, inner Earth, other dimensions, or the future.

Roswell and Independence Day

An article from Fyens Stiftstidende discusses the town of Roswell, New Mexico, and its enduring connection to the 1947 UFO incident. The town has embraced its UFO fame, with two UFO museums attracting many tourists. The recent success of the American film 'Independence Day', which features an alien invasion, has further boosted tourism to Roswell. The article also briefly mentions the discovery of potential signs of life on Mars, linking it to the ongoing public interest in extraterrestrial life.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the serious investigation of UFO phenomena, the cultural impact of UFOs in media and society, and the efforts of organizations like SUFOI to gather and analyze evidence. The editorial stance, as articulated by Per Andersen, is one of open-minded inquiry: "We don't believe in everything. But we believe that everything should be investigated." The magazine promotes a methodical and evidence-based approach to understanding UFOs, distinguishing between natural explanations and genuinely unidentified phenomena.

This issue of the Danish magazine "UFOer på vej" (UFOs on the Way), dated October 3, 1996, with issue number 21 and volume 1996, delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, drawing connections to popular culture and scientific inquiry. The cover prominently features the movie "Independence Day," highlighting its record-breaking success and linking it to increased UFO sightings and tourism, particularly in Roswell, New Mexico.

The Roswell Incident and its Legacy

The magazine revisits the infamous Roswell incident of July 1947. It recounts the initial press release from the military confirming the discovery of a flying saucer, followed by a retraction and the official explanation that it was a weather balloon. The article notes the enduring public fascination with the event, fueled by the movie "Independence Day" and recent news about potential life on Mars. The UFO museum in Roswell is presented as a major tourist attraction, with its director, Deon Crosby, observing a more open societal attitude towards the possibility of extraterrestrial life.

Witness Testimonies and Skepticism

Several witness accounts are featured. Frankie Rowe recounts her father's experience as a firefighter who allegedly saw a crashed UFO and three beings in 1947, a secret she kept for 49 years due to military threats. Jim Ragsdale also reports seeing two UFOs collide and crash. The article includes skepticism from author William Barrett, who argues that the UFO myth is largely driven by business and show business, pointing to inconsistencies in the number and locations of alleged crash sites. He also highlights cases of individuals with questionable backgrounds promoting UFO theories.

Scientific Investigations and Explanations

The magazine references the University of Colorado's comprehensive study on UFO phenomena, led by Dr. Edward U. Condon. The report concluded that investigating UFO reports was a waste of time and money, a finding that has been debated by both proponents and skeptics. The article also addresses the phenomenon of crop circles, with astronomer Mogens Winther attributing them to human activity, likely created by individuals using a lawn roller and measuring tape, rather than extraterrestrial origins. This practice is noted as potentially encouraging imitation and causing damage to crops.

UFO Sightings and Related Phenomena

Beyond the Roswell incident, the magazine touches upon other UFO-related events. A report from Ängelholm, Sweden, details Gösta Carlsson's claim of finding a transparent rod and a golden ring from a UFO in 1946. Another account describes a mysterious sphere found in Russia in 1983, later identified as a glass sphere from historical Russian glass production. The issue also addresses reports of mysterious lights in the sky, such as those seen in Slagelse and Køge, Denmark, which were ultimately explained as laser light shows from a shopping center's birthday celebration.

Personal Accounts and Beliefs

Brian E. Møller, a representative for Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI), shares his perspective on UFOs. He acknowledges that most reported sightings have natural explanations but notes that a few cases remain unexplained. He expresses a personal desire to see a UFO or an alien himself. The article also includes a reader's question about astrological signs and a letter from a reader seeking guidance for a dream interpretation group.

UFO-related Literature and Organizations

The magazine includes advertisements for books and pamphlets related to UFOs, including "UFOer: Hvad siger videnskaben?" (UFOs: What Does Science Say?) and "UFO-bølger" (UFO Waves). Information is provided on how to order these publications and contact SUFOI.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the enduring public fascination with UFOs, the impact of popular culture (specifically "Independence Day") on this interest, and the ongoing debate between official explanations and witness testimonies. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting various accounts and perspectives, including skeptical viewpoints, while acknowledging the persistent mystery surrounding some UFO phenomena. There's a clear indication that UFOs are a significant draw for tourism and media attention, as highlighted by the "Independence Day" phenomenon and the Roswell museum.

This issue of the magazine, identified by the number 31, focuses on UFO phenomena and related publications and videos. The cover story, 'Dobbeltmåner' (Double Moons), details investigations by SUFOI into unusual lunar observations received in October 1993. The magazine also features reviews of books and videos related to UFO sightings in Poland and Mexico, as well as a lecture by a former NASA consultant.

Dobbeltmåner

This section reports that SUFOI received six accounts in October 1993 concerning 'double moons.' These observations involved seeing an extra moon positioned directly beside the actual moon. The article highlights the unusual nature of these optical phenomena, noting that no existing literature appears to have documented similar occurrences. The report explains how SUFOI investigated these double moon observations and explores potential theories that might account for the phenomenon. The publication is described as illustrated, 60 pages long, and priced at 76.00 Danish Kroner. A specific observation from Lemvig, dated approximately October 25, 1993, is mentioned.

UFOer over Polen

This article discusses a UFO book published by SUFOI in the context of changes in Eastern Europe. Titled 'UFOer over Polen,' it is presented as one of the few UFO books available from the region. The book reportedly contains numerous reports on landings, close-up observations, physical effects, and UFO photographs from Poland. It also delves into the history of ufology in Poland and includes the first two Polish UFO photographs. The publication is described as being in two volumes, totaling 84 pages, and costs 86.00 Danish Kroner. The publisher is identified as Skandinavisk UFO Information.

UFO

This entry describes 'UFO' as a foundational book on ufology, featuring Danish and international observations, photo analyses, and UFO theories. It is richly illustrated and specifically recommended for young readers and study groups. The publisher is listed as Gyldendal, with the book containing 48 pages and being offered at a reduced price of 39.00 Danish Kroner.

SALG AF VIDEOER (Sale of Videos)

This section advertises several UFO-related videos:

Messengers of Destiny

This is the first video about fantastic lights observed over Mexico, including footage captured during the 1991 solar eclipse. The lights are described as truly mysterious, and many people observed and filmed them due to the solar eclipse. The video is considered one of the most exciting UFO films seen in a long time and features English narration. It runs for 75 minutes and costs 250.00 Danish Kroner. The video cover art is depicted.

Masters of the Stars

This video continues where 'Messengers of Destiny' left off, featuring recordings of some of the most extensive and frequent UFO incidents in Mexico. It includes daylight footage of an event from January 1, 1993, where three UFOs were filmed over a highway, causing traffic to halt due to the mysterious lights. This video is described as at least as exciting as its predecessor and also has English narration. It runs for 75 minutes and costs 250.00 Danish Kroner.

The Terrestrial Connection

This video features a lecture given at the UN by former NASA consultant Richard Hoagland. It also includes footage and discussion of a peculiar rock formation on Mars that resembles a face, along with the latest computer analyses of the image. The video has English narration, runs for 93 minutes, and costs 190.00 Danish Kroner.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained aerial phenomena, with a particular focus on specific case studies like the 'double moons' and sightings in Poland and Mexico. The magazine appears to promote ufology as a field of study, offering books and videos that cover historical accounts, photographic evidence, and theoretical explanations. The editorial stance seems to be one of presenting information and investigations related to UFOs, encouraging further research and discussion, particularly among younger audiences and study groups, as indicated by the description of the 'UFO' book.