SUFOI Nyhedsbrev - 1999 01-02 No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: SUFOI Nyhedsbrev
Issue: Nr. 1 - 1999
Date: Januar/februar 1999
Publisher: Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
ISSN: 1396-545X
Price: kr. 130,00 (annual subscription)

Editorial Stance and Content Summary

This issue of SUFOI Nyhedsbrev opens with an editorial titled "Leder" (Leader) that addresses the nature of ufology, acknowledging that it is often perceived as a playground for fantasists and hoaxers. The editorialist emphasizes the need for scientific skepticism when examining the UFO phenomenon and highlights the importance of UFO reports in uncovering potential truths. It notes that while Denmark has been relatively spared from large-scale UFO hoaxes, such as the famous crop circles (demonstrated as faked by SUFOI's Ole Henningsen), the USA has seen a surge in alleged UFO abductions, a phenomenon less prevalent in Europe, prompting questions about European skepticism.

The "Nyheder og notitser" (News and Notes) section, written by Toke Haunstrup, details SUFOI's recent media presence. This includes mentions in Politiken regarding Ole Henningsen's crop circle experiment, an observation reported in Fyens Stiftstidende from Odense, and a portrait of Per Andersen in Erhvervsbladet. The section also notes that a press release about UFO-Nyt's 40th anniversary did not result in any media coverage.

Peter Nørgaard contributes "Send fluks en ufo" (Send an UFO quickly), a short piece about a humorous request from a "UFO group" of schoolchildren needing information for a report.

Egon Olsen's "Nyt om observationer" (News on observations) details two specific sightings. The first, from Odense on November 22, 1998, describes a vinkelformet (angular) object observed by a couple, which rotated, changed colors (green, yellow, red, blue), and moved vertically before disappearing after approximately 30 minutes. The observer estimated its size between 50 and 100 meters in diameter. The second case, from near Silkeborg on November 14, 1998, describes a car stopping, lights going out, and the radio falling silent for about 10 seconds before normal function resumed, with the observer possibly seeing red lights above trees.

"Ufo-rapporter: Status over rapporter fra 1995 og 1996" by Toke Haunstrup presents a statistical analysis of UFO reports received by SUFOI. The data is categorized into "Identificerede" (identified), "Manglende data" (missing data), and "Uidentificerede" (unidentified). For 1995, there were 162 identified, 107 with missing data, and 8 unidentified reports. For 1996, the numbers were 131 identified, 68 with missing data, and 7 unidentified. The report notes a similarity between 1994 and 1995 data, with 1996 showing a slight difference, which the author intends to investigate further. Table 2 breaks down the identified cases by explanation type, such as projector/laser lights, meteors, aircraft, planets, etc.

The "Aktiviteter" (Activities) section features a report on the "Københavns UFO-Gruppe" (Copenhagen UFO Group) by Toke Haunstrup. A meeting on November 8, 1998, involved socializing, discussions about new observations, and a screening of the science-fiction film "Contact." The next meeting was scheduled for January 12, 1999.

Pages 8 and 9 contain the "Indberetninger i perioden 1/10 - 30/11 1998" (Reports in the period 1/10 - 30/11 1998), a detailed list of UFO sightings reported during October and November 1998. Each entry includes the date, time, duration, location (with postal code and town), number of observers, colors, and any potential identification (e.g., projector lights, aircraft, satellite). A key to status codes (e.g., Alarm modtaget, Skemaer sendt til observatør) and report handlers is also provided.

Page 10 includes a photograph from Politiken dated November 29, 1998, showing a crop circle, with a caption explaining how such formations are made, referencing Ole Henningsen's demonstration. The accompanying text is from Ole Henningsen himself.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the critical examination of UFO phenomena, the distinction between genuine sightings and hoaxes, the role of scientific methodology in ufology, and the reporting of specific UFO sightings and statistical data. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious investigation, advocating for scientific rigor while acknowledging the possibility of genuine unexplained phenomena, as stated in the notable quote: "Despite the many attempts to deceive ufologists, it remains of great value to investigate UFO reports. With the right effort, it will turn out that there is a truth out there."

This issue of SUFOI Nyhedsbrev, dated 1-1999, focuses on UFO phenomena, crop circles, and mysterious sightings. The magazine aims to investigate and provide information on unexplained aerial events.

Article: Bagsiden løser berømt UFO-gåde (Bagsiden Solves Famous UFO Riddle)

This article discusses the phenomenon of crop circles, which are often speculated to be signals or landing sites for UFOs. The magazine previously issued a call for people to help create one. While a method involving a rope and a stamping board is described, the article highlights that Ole Heaningen, co-editor of UFO-Nyt, used a stamping board with his neighbor to create a nine-meter diameter circle with four smaller circles around it on July 26th. The article humorously suggests that this act has solved the 'world-famous mystery of crop circles' thanks to Bagsiden.

Article: Paul Dore and the Spy Satellite

This section details an incident involving Paul Dore, a UFO enthusiast from the UK, who detected a signal from a star 22 light-years away. He initially believed it to be from intelligent extraterrestrial life. However, it was revealed to be a signal from a top-secret US spy satellite, Project 415. Dore was interviewed by US and UK intelligence agencies and was placed under a gag order. His website was subsequently taken down.

Article: Orson Welles and the Martian Invasion

This brief mention refers to Orson Welles' famous 1938 radio broadcast of 'The War of the Worlds,' which simulated a Martian invasion and caused widespread panic. It serves as a historical reference point for the public's fascination with UFOs and extraterrestrial life.

Article: Mysterious Lights Seen Twice at Ryde Skov

This article reports on a mysterious luminous object observed near Ryde Skov. A couple, Birthe and Jørgen Hansen, reported seeing a similar object on two separate occasions. The first sighting was in 1997, and the second was on October 30th, 1998, around 10:30 PM. The object was described as round, luminous, and approximately five to six times larger than the moon, hovering lower in the sky. Ole Henningsen from SUFOI stated that while most observations have natural explanations, some remain unexplained. He suggests that future generations might understand these phenomena.

Article: Fup og fakta (Hoax and Facts)

This section features Ole Henningsen, a local representative for SUFOI, who has been involved with UFOs since 1959. He states that approximately 90% of reported UFO sightings have natural explanations, often due to misinterpretations in darkness. He believes that while flying saucers were a common idea in the past, current theories lean more towards natural phenomena that future humans may understand. He defines a UFO as an aerial phenomenon that cannot be explained even after a thorough investigation.

Article: Mysterious Imprint from Mors

This article discusses a mysterious, fan-shaped imprint found in the soil on a property near Nykøbing. A zoologist, Lars Thomas, consulted by Skandinavisk UFO-information, examined photos of the imprint and concluded it was not made by any known animal. The imprint measured 30x50 cm and was six centimeters deep with clear striber. While the exact cause is unknown, possibilities like a smaller excavator are considered, but the lack of tracks makes this unlikely. The article notes that the SUFOI is open to mechanical explanations but will consider UFOs if no natural explanation is found.

Article: Science Fiction, Future, and UFOs at Youth School

This article highlights a series of events organized by youth school clubs in Randers, Denmark, focusing on the future and science fiction. Events included presentations on youth culture in the year 2000, a science fiction film screening, and a UFO-themed program. The events aimed to engage students with futuristic concepts and the phenomenon of UFOs.

Article: New Course on Life as a String of Pearls

This piece announces a weekend course on spiritual knowledge and practice to be held in Bornholm, Denmark, by Ingelise and Steen Landsy. The course, titled 'Life as a String of Pearls,' will cover topics such as reincarnation, past lives, and human development. It will also touch upon UFOs and the concept of being born from the spiritual world into the physical. The organizers emphasize that while prior knowledge isn't required, an open mind is beneficial.

Article: Experts Have No Explanation for Mysterious Luminous Sphere over Storebælt

This article reports on a sighting of a transparent, luminous sphere with a light in the center that flew slowly and silently past a house near the Storebælt Bridge. The witness, a woman in Halsskov, has reportedly seen three UFOs in her life. Experts consulted by UFO-Nyt found the circumstances mysterious, as the object was not identified. The article notes that the Storebælt Bridge is not only used by regular traffic but also by UFOs, according to UFO-Nyt.

Article: Couple Saw UFO Hovering Over House

This article details an incident in Odense, Denmark, where an elderly couple reported seeing a large, luminous, silent, round object hovering over their house in the early morning hours of November 22nd. The object was estimated to be between 50 and 100 meters in diameter and rotated while emitting colored light. They watched it for about half an hour before it slowly ascended and disappeared into the distance, appearing as a star. Egon Olsen from Skandinavisk Ufo Information is seeking other witnesses to this event, as neither the local police nor the airport received similar reports. The couple has reportedly been unsettled by the experience.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of UFO sightings, the debunking or exploration of mysterious phenomena like crop circles and unexplained lights, and the role of organizations like SUFOI in gathering and disseminating information. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, acknowledging that while many sightings have natural explanations, some remain unexplained and warrant further investigation. There's a clear interest in documenting these events and encouraging public participation in reporting observations.

Title: Viborg Stifts Folkeblad
Issue Date: October 31, 1998
Publisher: SUFOI (Danish Society for UFO Research)
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Main Article: The Boss and the UFOs

The cover story, "Chefen og ufoerne" (The Boss and the UFOs), introduces Jesper Maagaard, a 30-year-old building market manager from Frederiks, Denmark. Despite his seemingly ordinary profession and hobbies (playing badminton and participating in revues), Maagaard holds extraordinary beliefs. He is not just a believer in UFOs; he is convinced that beings from other planets regularly visit Earth with the intention of helping humanity.

Maagaard's conviction is so strong that he has taken the step of questioning the Danish Prime Minister about the government's preparedness for official contact with extraterrestrials. He wants to know what plans are in place should such contact occur.

The IGAP Philosophy

Maagaard's beliefs are rooted in the IGAP (International Get Acquainted Program) philosophy, founded by George Adamski. Adamski, a Polish-American, claimed to have witnessed UFOs and met beings from other planets. The core of the IGAP philosophy is that the universe is a vast, interconnected family, and that humanity is not alone. According to this view, beings from more developed planets visit Earth periodically to offer assistance.

Maagaard explains that his understanding of the universe is not a religious belief, as religions involve worship, whereas IGAP is about understanding the interconnectedness of existence. He states, "It is not a belief. It is an understanding of how the world hangs together."

He believes that humans are not solely products of Earth's evolution but originate from other parts of the universe, and that Earth was colonized when it became habitable. He posits the existence of a "god," but defines it as a cosmic intelligence rather than a deity to be worshipped.

Living Incorrectly

Maagaard feels that humanity is living incorrectly, and that the visitors from other planets are trying to communicate this through phenomena like UFO sightings and crop circles. He believes these visitors are attempting to show us that our problems stem from focusing on symptoms rather than causes. He asserts that beings from other planets live differently, do not experience illness, and are trying to convey that humanity is lagging behind and needs help to progress.

The Challenge of Belief

Maagaard shares his philosophy and lectures about UFOs, often encountering people who, after years of silence, finally share their own experiences with UFOs. He notes that believing in UFOs is difficult because the general public and media often dismiss such accounts. "The truth doesn't sell very well," he remarks.

He draws parallels with the TV series "X-Files," recognizing that there are likely government officials who control information to suppress the truth about UFOs. He sees the series as potentially a way to subtly introduce these concepts to the public.

Maagaard views films and series about alien contact positively, as they help to normalize the idea for people, making them less surprised when actual contact occurs.

UFOs as Transport

While Maagaard has only personally witnessed what he believes to be a UFO once, he is certain of their existence and their benign intentions. He emphasizes that UFOs are merely a "means of transport" for these beings, and the real purpose is to help make Earth a better place. He states, "UFOs are just a means of transport."

His goal is not to convert people to his beliefs but to stimulate thought. He has written an article on the subject for children and has sent letters to all EU heads of government, posing the question: "If UFOs are real, how do we deal with this fact?" He uses the phrase "What if..." to encourage contemplation.

SUFOI Offerings

The issue concludes with a catalog of books, periodicals, and videos related to UFOs and related phenomena available for purchase through SUFOI. This section lists various titles with their order numbers, prices, and brief descriptions, covering topics from UFO data and history to specific sightings and extraterrestrial encounters. The ordering information includes payment details for giro transfers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the belief in extraterrestrial visitation and the potential for humanity to learn from these visitors. The editorial stance, as represented by the featured article and the SUFOI catalog, is one of open inquiry into UFO phenomena, encouraging research, and providing resources for those interested in the subject. There is a clear emphasis on the idea that UFOs are not inherently frightening but represent a potential source of knowledge and assistance for humanity.