UFO Information - 1972 No 06

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO-INFORMATION
Issue: Nr 6
Volume: Årgång 4
Date: September 1972
Publisher: Centralgruppen för UFO-SVERIGE
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of UFO-INFORMATION, published by the central group for UFO-Sweden, presents a collection of articles and reports related to UFO phenomena, aiming to increase knowledge and encourage serious investigation.

Open Letter: It's Time to Start Researching Seriously by Jacques Vallée

Dr. Jacques Vallée, a French researcher based in the USA and a consultant for NASA, argues in an open letter that the time has come for UFO research to move beyond speculation and embrace scientific methods. He criticizes the two extreme theories prevalent among enthusiasts: one that dismisses UFOs as natural phenomena despite their peculiar characteristics, and another that attributes them to extraterrestrial intelligence without scientific basis. Vallée proposes a ten-point research program designed to systematically gather and analyze UFO data. He emphasizes the need for a scientific approach, drawing parallels with the early stages of other scientific fields like aviation and radio astronomy, where amateurs played a crucial role. He stresses that UFO research should not be in opposition to general science but rather integrate with it, utilizing historical, archaeological, philosophical, and mathematical perspectives. The program includes developing data information systems, improving classification, compiling historical reports, translating foreign accounts, analyzing wartime sightings, organizing amateur observation networks, studying sociological patterns related to UFOs, and reorganizing local research efforts.

UFO Crew Visited Swedish Link Station

This article details a remarkable encounter reported by Kjell Näslund, the manager of a telecommunications link station located near Trehörningsjö in northern Ångermanland, Sweden. On the evening of March 12, 1969, Näslund experienced a series of alarms at the station, followed by an unusual light illuminating the area. He then witnessed a large, disc-shaped craft, estimated to be 150 meters in diameter and 5-6 meters high, hovering in a nearby depression. Näslund described seeing small, box-like entities, approximately 130-135 cm tall, moving silently within a tunnel-like opening in the craft. He experienced what he described as telepathic impressions, feeling unable to move and sensing a protective presence from the entities. The craft emitted a grey, dim light, and the entities were described as floating without visible limbs. After about five to ten minutes, the craft ascended and departed northward. Näslund reported the incident to the police and his wife, but initially, his account was met with disbelief. The article also notes that two birch trees near the site showed signs of damage, with their tops broken off at the same height as the broken pine tree, suggesting the craft may have been hovering slightly above ground level.

Other Reports and News

• Car Stopped by Light Phenomenon at Gäddtjärn: A witness from Kramfors reported that on August 1, 1972, their car engine suddenly stopped while driving near Gäddtjärn. The area was illuminated by a strange white and blue light, and the water became agitated. The engine restarted spontaneously once the phenomenon ceased.

• Radioactive Traces on an Island in Norway: Reports from ÖN Kjølsøya in Namsenfjorden, Norway, describe unusual triangular and round indentations found on the island. These traces were discovered after a period of strong TV interference and a local transformer failure. Soil samples from the site reportedly contained 'foreign radioactive particles'.

• Organizational News: The section "ORGANISATIONSNYTT" provides updates on UFO-Sweden's activities. Carl-Axel Jonzon, the editor-in-chief, appeared on TV. The organization has grown to 44 affiliated groups. UFO-Orebro has expanded to 10 members, and the Jönköping group has grown to 20 members. Stockholms UFO-Center is publishing a new magazine called "SUFOC." The organization is also encouraging the formation of new local UFO groups.

• Other Mentions: The issue also briefly mentions a UFO sighting in Östsverige, a report from Kristinehamn, and a discussion about ancient civilizations and time travel.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently advocates for a more rigorous, scientific approach to UFO research, moving away from mere speculation or sensationalism. It highlights the importance of systematic data collection and analysis, as exemplified by Jacques Vallée's open letter. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards the UFO phenomenon, encouraging detailed reporting and investigation, while maintaining a critical perspective. The publication serves as a platform for sharing eyewitness accounts, research findings, and organizational updates within the Swedish UFO community.

This issue of UFO-Information, dated September 1972, features a cover story on an "archaeological discovery" in Ecuador and UFO sightings in Sweden. The magazine delves into various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, including witness accounts, scientific analysis, and the potential connection to psychic experiences.

UFO Sightings in Sweden

The magazine reports on several UFO sightings in Sweden. Two drivers near Nyköping and Nävekvarn, Östsverige, described being followed by an unidentified flying object on the night of June 26th. One witness, Sven Närholm, a metalworker, recounted a similar experience on April 13th, where an oval, blue-green object with a sharp glow followed his car for about 20 kilometers at a low altitude, matching his speed of 80-90 km/h. He also noted radio interference during the encounter. Another sighting occurred on August 4th near Kristinehamn, where Arvid Andersson observed a saucer-shaped object with a dome and small windows moving at high speed.

On August 13th, a bright, red-glowing triangle was reportedly seen over Gällivare/Malmberget and other parts of Lappland for 3-4 hours. Traffic controller Eno Malmroos noted its erratic movement, stopping and starting as if braked, and its altitude of approximately 1,000 meters. The object was not detected by radar in Boden, a case compared to a similar sighting in Härnösand in 1970. On the same evening, witnesses in Dalarna and central Sweden reported a phenomenon resembling bolides or satellite re-entry.

The magazine notes a rise in UFO activity from June 19th to August 14th, after a lull in May-July.

Archaeological Discovery in Ecuador

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to an "archaeological discovery" in Ecuador. An Argentinian archaeologist reportedly found an extensive underground system of passages, including a conference room and a 'library,' located 240 meters beneath the Ecuadorian jungle near the Santiago River. The entrance is described as a quadratically cut opening. The passages have smooth, polished ceilings and walls, with ventilation shafts. One chamber, a 'conference hall,' measures 110 by 130 meters and contains a table made of an unknown, heavy material. A 'zoo' with various species, including extinct animals, is also mentioned. The discovery is linked to the theories of author Erich von Däniken, suggesting Earth was visited by advanced extraterrestrial civilizations.

UFOs and Psychic Phenomena

Captain Ivar Mackay, head of the Society for British UFO Research, is featured discussing his belief in a strong connection between UFOs and psychic phenomena. He suggests that exploring occult phenomena could provide new insights into UFOs. Mackay highlights similarities between UFO behavior and reported psychic events, such as temperature drops during hauntings, levitation, and materialization. He also touches upon the concept of 'parallel worlds' and warns against blind UFO fanaticism.

Mackay discusses phenomena like 'levitation,' where objects or people are lifted, and the idea of UFOs appearing 'out of nowhere' and disappearing, which he categorizes as materialization. He also notes how UFOs appear as small lights that grow into massive objects before shrinking and vanishing, drawing parallels to ectoplasmic manifestations in séances.

Scientific Scrutiny and Critique

Professor J. Allen Hynek, a renowned astronomer who consulted for the U.S. Air Force's 'Blue Book' project for twenty years, presents his critical views in his book 'The UFO-Experience - a Scientific Inquiry.' Hynek emphasizes the need for a scientific approach to UFO phenomena and criticizes the dismissive attitude of the scientific community towards the subject. He argues that many scientists prefer to ignore or ridicule UFO reports rather than investigate them.

Hynek finds the 'Blue Book' project's handling of cases to be problematic, citing the case of Sheriff Dale Spaur. Spaur and other officers observed a large, cone-shaped object, which the 'Blue Book' commission classified as Venus, despite the simultaneous observation of the planet. Hynek criticizes Major Quintanilla, the head of the project, for focusing solely on Spaur's testimony and dismissing other witnesses, leading to public ridicule and the breakdown of Spaur's career and personal life.

Hynek advocates for a rigorous examination of UFO reports, focusing on the background and psychological state of the witnesses. He categorizes sightings based on their 'peculiarity' and 'probability,' distinguishing between 'night observations' and 'daylight discs,' and further classifying them into 'close observations' of the first, second, and third degree, with the third degree including sightings of beings.

Future Perspectives and Other Topics

The magazine also touches upon future perspectives, referencing Gerhard R. Steinhäuser's work, which explores the idea of extraterrestrial civilizations influencing Earth and the concept of time travel. The article mentions H.G. Wells's 'time machine' and its depiction in film and television.

A separate piece, 'NATURKOLLON HUR LÄNGE TILL?' (Nature's Children - How Much Longer?), by Stefan Berndtsson, reflects on the beauty of nature and the threat posed by industrialization and urbanization, questioning how long such idyllic places will remain.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, the potential for advanced extraterrestrial civilizations (both ancient and future), and the critical examination of scientific and governmental approaches to the UFO phenomenon. The magazine appears to advocate for a more open-minded and thorough investigation of UFO reports, challenging the skepticism prevalent in the scientific community and highlighting the importance of witness testimony and detailed analysis. The editorial stance is one of promoting serious research into UFOs while debunking sensationalism and blind fanaticism.

This issue of FLYING OBJECT AGENCY, identified by its issue number '19', delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, media criticism, and astronomical possibilities. The magazine features a cover headline questioning the uniqueness of Earth and exploring the possibility of 'doubles' elsewhere in the universe.

Condon Report Criticisms

The lead article, 'Condon-rapporten hastverk fyllt av brister' (The Condon Report: Hasty Work Full of Flaws), presents criticisms of the Condon Report, which was produced under the leadership of Dr. E. Condons at the University of Colorado. J. Allen Hynek is quoted as stating that the report was a hasty compilation, poorly organized, and based on only 90 cases out of 937 pages, despite the committee having access to 12,000 Air Force cases and numerous reports from private UFO organizations like APRO and NICAP. Hynek questions the significance of the report's findings for 25,000 reported cases. The article suggests that the report dismisses UFOs as unscientific, with its authors resorting to jokes and mockery.

Recommendations for UFO Research

Following the criticism of official UFO investigations, Hynek recommends that UFO enthusiasts form alliances. He highlights three journals he considers exemplary for UFO matters: the English 'Flying Saucer Review' as the foremost, along with the French 'Lumières dans la nuit' and 'Phenomenes spatiaux' for their open-minded approach. The article notes that Sweden has active UFO organizations, specifically mentioning UFO-Sverige in Motala for its pioneering work. The need for systematic, rigorous studies and a unified international terminology for describing and evaluating UFO phenomena is emphasized. Hynek also suggests improving interview techniques, as they are crucial to the investigative process. The article proposes the creation of a common international journal and an institute to coordinate UFO studies, stressing the need for specialists to address the multifaceted nature of the problem and the necessity of data processing to identify common patterns in UFO sightings.

International Cooperation and UN Involvement

Professor Hynek's past discussions with UN Secretary-General U Thant in 1966 regarding international UFO aspects are mentioned. U Thant was reportedly receptive to the idea of a UN body to facilitate communication among researchers. The article poses the question of whether the time is ripe for such an international coordination.

Hynek's Book as a Guide

Professor Hynek's book is described as a captivating read that offers numerous perspectives. It encourages readers to examine the underlying dynamics of official committees and the phenomenon itself. The book is presented as a 'handbook for ufology,' serving as a guide for researchers navigating the complexities of UFO phenomena.

Satirical TV Segment: Flying Object Agency

A fictional segment from a TV-2 program, 'FLYING OBJECT AGENCY', is presented through comic strip-like panels. In this segment, 'space expert' Erogen Smilijov is interviewed by Target Eriksson from FOA (Swedish Defence Materiel Administration). Eriksson claims that UFOs are actually FOA's secret weapon reflex balloons, a statement made at a press conference. Smilijov expresses skepticism, questioning the Swedish government's possession of UFOs reported globally. He highlights the 'New Year's Lights' as a debated phenomenon, which Eriksson allegedly explained as reflex balloons. Smilijov asserts that on the night in question, they had visitors from space. An anonymous FOA spokesperson is quoted as saying that reflex balloons are used to inform the press when FOA faces difficult observations and that these balloons cannot even lift off the ground.

Our Earth Must Have Many Doubles

This article explores the scientific likelihood of life existing on other planets. It cites the work of astronomers like van den Kamp, who suggest that Earth is not unique in the universe. With billions of stars in the Milky Way and countless galaxies, the probability of other planets with similar life-supporting conditions is considered high. The article discusses the concept of a 'middle zone' around stars where conditions might be favorable for life.

SÖKAREN Magazine

The magazine 'SÖKAREN' is introduced as a publication focused on worldview issues. Its past articles have covered topics such as meditation, the concept of God, reincarnation, interviews with J. Allen Hynek and Professor Ian Stevenson, and various accounts of UFO contact and experiences from different cultures. The magazine is published 10 times a year, with subscription prices listed.

UFO-Sverige and UFO-Sveriges Stödfond

UFO-Sverige, C-gruppen, expresses gratitude to its contributors and hopes for continued support. The 'UFO-SVERIGES STÖDFOND' (UFO-Sweden Support Fund) is also mentioned with its address and postgiro number.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue exhibits a critical stance towards official UFO investigations, particularly the Condon Report, and satirizes government explanations for UFO sightings. It promotes independent research and international collaboration in the field. Simultaneously, it engages with scientific perspectives on extraterrestrial life and highlights alternative publications and organizations dedicated to UFO studies. The magazine appears to advocate for a more open and thorough investigation of UFO phenomena, questioning official narratives and encouraging a broader scientific and public discourse.