UFO Information - 1979 No 04

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO-INFORMATION, dated NR 4 1979, is published by UFO-Sverige and focuses on the 'Sirius Mystery'. The cover features a stylized logo, the headline 'UNIDENTIFIED FLYING OBJECTS', and a striking image combining traditional African dancers with a star chart of constellations, highlighting Sirius. The main cover story teases the ancient Dogon people's detailed knowledge of the Sirius planetary system, suggesting modern astronomy is only now confirming it.

Contents and Articles

Editorial and Organization Information

The magazine is described as a journal for current UFO events and increased knowledge about UFO phenomena, serving as the organ for the National Organization UFO-Sweden. It is published six times a year. The editorial address is in Skänninge, Sweden. Key editorial staff include Carl-Axel Jonzon (Editor-in-Chief and Responsible Publisher), Thorvald Berthelsen (covering foreign publications and text editing), and other collaborators like Olle Öhman, Jan Lind, Jan-Ove Sundberg, Carl-Anton Mattson, Tommy Gustavsson, Florent Sickenga, and Christina Thornesköld.

UFO-Sveriges stödfond (Support Fund)

A special fund for grants, UFO-Sveriges stödfond, is detailed. Managed by an independent party, it provides financial support for initiatives aligned with UFO-Sverige's objectives, with an emphasis on transparency for donors. The fund is intended to cover costs for the member magazine and administration, among other things. Readers are encouraged to submit articles and discussion pieces.

International UFO-Congress

An announcement for an international UFO congress organized by Bufora, an English UFO organization, is included. The congress is scheduled for August 26-27, 1979, and will feature Dr. J. Allen Hynek as a speaker. Information is available from Anthony Pace in Eccleshall, Staffordshire, England.

UFOSPACE Newsclipping Journal Advertisement

An advertisement for 'UFOSPACE NEWSCLIPPING JOURNAL' promotes it as the world's largest and most informed UFO journal, scanning thousands of newspapers globally. It covers extraterrestrial life searches, mysteries like the Bermuda Triangle, and more.

Article: 'I tidens ström ryms då och nu och sedan...' (Time's Stream Contains Past, Present, and Future...)

This philosophical piece by Jonzon explores the nature of time, viewing it as a universal law that tends towards rest. The author suggests that future beings might be able to travel back in time and influence the present, potentially explaining UFO phenomena. The article challenges conventional notions of time, proposing that all time exists simultaneously and that future 'humans' could visit us to improve the present for their own future.

Article: 'Sirius-mysteriet' (The Sirius Mystery)

This extensive article, based on Robert K.G. Temple's book 'The Sirius Mystery', investigates the ancient Dogon people's astronomical knowledge concerning the star Sirius. Temple's research suggests the Dogons possessed knowledge of Sirius B (a white dwarf star invisible to the naked eye) and potentially Sirius C, dating back over 5,000 years, possibly originating from ancient Egypt. The article details the Dogon's star names, their understanding of Sirius B's orbital period (50 years), and its comparison to Egyptian deities like Osiris and Anubis. It draws parallels between Dogon traditions, Egyptian mythology, and Greek myths involving figures like Jason and the Argonauts, suggesting a shared ancient astronomical understanding. The article also touches upon the concept of 'heavy stars' and the possibility of super-dense matter.

Article: 'Sirius hos de gamla egypterna' (Sirius in Ancient Egypt)

This section further explores the ancient Egyptian connection to Sirius, identifying it as the most important star in their calendar. It links Sirius to the goddess Isis and her companion Osiris, who is sometimes associated with Orion. The text discusses the 'dog-god' Anubis and his role as a 'horizontal circle' separating the visible and invisible, potentially representing Sirius B. The 'dark ceremony' in ancient Egypt is mentioned as a high form of initiation related to the 'black Osiris' and Isis, hinting at knowledge of Sirius B. The article posits that modern astronomical understanding of white dwarfs and super-dense matter is necessary to comprehend these ancient concepts.

Article: 'Den tunga stjärnan' (The Heavy Star)

This part of the Sirius mystery article discusses the concept of a 'heavy star' in Babylonian mythology, possibly referring to Sirius B. It links this to Gilgamesh's dream and the idea of super-dense matter. The article also explores the Sumerian god An and his daughter Bau, who is associated with the dog star and the Annunaki, the 'fifty great gods', potentially connecting to Sirius B's 50-year orbit.

Article: 'Orakelcentrat' (Oracle Centers)

This section examines ancient oracle centers in Greece and their potential geodetic significance, relating them to ancient Egypt and the star Sirius. Locations like Dodona, Delphi, Delos, and Omphalos are discussed in relation to their geographical positions and possible connections to astronomical observations and ancient belief systems.

Article: 'Dogonernas ursprung' (Dogon Origins)

This section traces the potential origins of the Dogon people, suggesting they may be descendants of Greeks from Lemnos who migrated to North Africa and eventually to Mali. Their knowledge of Sirius is theorized to have been passed down from predynastic Egypt.

Article: 'Sture Wickerts klavertramp' (Sture Wickerts' Stumble)

This article presents an interview with Sture Wickerts, identified as the UFO expert for UFO-Sverige and a meteorologist at FOA. Wickerts expresses strong skepticism towards UFO phenomena, stating that 95% of reports are explained by conventional means (satellites, weather balloons). He dismisses the remaining 5% as originating from 'sick or strange people' or those seeking to 'joke'. He firmly denies the existence of 'flying saucers' from outer space, comparing UFO believers to those who believe in mythical creatures like trolls. He asserts that no serious scientist has acknowledged UFOs as extraterrestrial craft, though some have acknowledged the possibility of extraterrestrial life in space.

Article: 'Andra förklaringar' (Other Explanations)

This section offers alternative explanations for the Sirius mystery, suggesting it could be a coincidence between mythological traditions and astronomical facts, or the survival of ancient terrestrial knowledge from a lost civilization. It also notes the possibility of Sirius C being discovered with characteristics matching the Dogon descriptions.

Table: 'Center (väst)'

A table lists various locations (Dodona, Delphi, Delos, etc.) and associates them with tree types (oak, birch, pine, etc.) and planets (Saturn, Sun, Moon, Mars, Jupiter, Venus, Mercury, Earth). This appears to be a geodetic or symbolic mapping system.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the Sirius Mystery, ancient civilizations' astronomical knowledge (particularly the Dogon and Egyptian), the nature of time, and the debate surrounding UFO phenomena. The editorial stance, as represented by the interview with Sture Wickerts, leans towards skepticism regarding UFOs, attributing most sightings to misidentification or hoaxes, while acknowledging the scientific possibility of extraterrestrial life in the universe. However, the extensive coverage of the Sirius Mystery and ancient myths suggests an openness to exploring unconventional explanations for phenomena that challenge current scientific understanding. The magazine promotes UFO-Sverige as an organization for those interested in UFOs and aims to increase knowledge in the field.

Title: UFO-Information
Issue: 1/1979
Publication Date: November 1, 1978
Publisher: UFO-Sverige
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of UFO-Information delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, scientific skepticism, and ancient civilizations, presenting a mix of investigative journalism, scientific theory, and anecdotal evidence.

Article: "Mosquito Researchers" Think Again: About UFOs

This section critically examines the scientific community's often dismissive attitude towards UFO reports. Journalist Lasse Krook provides a sworn statement confirming the accuracy of his interview with Sture Wickerts, who expressed a critical view of UFO phenomena. The article argues that this 'official' attitude is not only disheartening for witnesses but also poses a potential security risk, as it may deter reporting of actual aerial intrusions from foreign countries. The authors suggest that this skepticism, while understandable from a conventional scientific standpoint, can lead to a dangerous dismissal of potentially significant observations.

The article then introduces a theory proposed by researchers Callahan and Mankin from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Their research, published in 'Applied Optics' in November 1978, suggests that UFO-like lights might be explained by an electrical phenomenon known as St. Elmo's fire, combined with the light emitted by swarms of insects. They experimented with insects in strong electrical fields, observing light emissions from their extremities, often blue, but sometimes red, green, or orange. The intensity of this light, when concentrated, could potentially be visible from a distance.

However, the article raises several critical questions about this theory. It points out that high-frequency fields of the required strength are not common in the atmosphere, unlike the intermittent fields during thunderstorms. It also questions why UFOs are reported year-round, while insect swarms are seasonal, and why UFOs are often described as clearly visible, unlike the faint glow of insects. The authors suggest that the scientific community tends to seek natural explanations, even if they seem far-fetched, and that this approach might overlook genuine anomalies.

Article: The Enigmatic Maya People

This extensive series, authored by Carl-Anton Mattsson with photos by Karl-Olov Pettersson, explores the fascinating Maya civilization. The articles detail a trip to Central America in 1978 to study the remnants of this ancient culture.

Maya Civilization Overview

The Maya culture flourished geographically across southeastern Mexico, Guatemala, and into Honduras and El Salvador. It reached its peak between 200 and 900 AD, with cities like Tikal in northern Guatemala being exceptionally significant. Estimates suggest Tikal may have housed between 1 and 1.5 million inhabitants. The ruins of Tikal, spread over 24 km, are described as a vast complex of temples, pyramids, and residential structures, now reclaimed by the dense jungle.

Mayan Astronomy and Mathematics

The Maya possessed remarkable knowledge of astronomy and mathematics. They accurately calculated the length of the year to 365.242 days, very close to modern calculations. They also developed a sophisticated calendar and were among the first to use a symbol for zero, enabling them to perform complex calculations. Their ability to predict solar and lunar eclipses with such precision is highlighted as particularly advanced.

Mysteries of Maya Origins and Contact

The articles touch upon the mystery of the Maya calendar's starting point (3113 BC) and speculate about potential cosmic events or extraterrestrial influence. The Maya's use of only three symbols (oval for zero, dot for one, line for five) for their numerical system is noted, alongside the ongoing challenge of deciphering their hieroglyphic script. The destruction of most Maya codices by a Catholic priest in the 16th century is lamented as a significant loss of historical knowledge.

Archaeological Sites: Tikal and Copan

The author describes visits to Tikal and Copan. Tikal's pyramids, including one 76 meters high, are presented as monumental achievements. Copan, located in a Honduran river valley, is described as a city of immense scale, with its acropolis covering five hectares and built from millions of tons of stone. The Maya's ability to construct these sites without the use of the wheel is emphasized.

Evidence of Ancient Contact?

Intriguing parallels are drawn between Maya culture and other ancient civilizations, including Nordic mythology (e.g., the concept of nine spheres/worlds, world serpents, and gods like Chac and Thor). The presence of bearded figures depicted on stelae in Copan and Quirigua raises questions, as Maya people are not typically bearded. The possibility of visitors from other lands, possibly extraterrestrial, is suggested.

Further evidence for ancient contact is presented through depictions of figures resembling Chinese individuals in Maya art, and a jade head found in Mexico that is described as distinctly Chinese. The article references ancient Chinese texts about a land called 'Fusang' and the possibility of Vimaana-like flying craft described in Vedic texts, suggesting ancient transoceanic contact and cultural exchange dating back over 12,000 years.

Article: Chilean Soldier Aged Instantly by UFO Beam

This report details a highly unusual UFO incident that occurred in Chile in 1977. Corporal Armando Valdes and his men were camped at an altitude of 4,000 meters when they observed two unidentified objects emitting intense light. One object descended, bathing Valdes in a powerful violet light. He then disappeared for approximately 15 minutes. Upon reappearing, he was disoriented, and it was noted that his beard had grown significantly, and his wristwatch had advanced by five days.

Despite military attempts to suppress the report, the account was corroborated by other soldiers and analyzed by a polygraph, which indicated the event was not a hoax. The report also mentions other UFO sightings in Chile around the same time, including a round object near Vilcununango and several UFOs seen flying towards Antarctica from Punta Arenas. A UFO was also photographed over Santiago.

Article: "Headlights" Shot Straight Up!

This section compiles several recent UFO sightings from Sweden.

Bygdeå and Umeå Sighting

On January 20, 1979, multiple witnesses in Bygdeå and Umeå observed a large, luminous yellow object at low altitude. Peter Johansson managed to take 10-15 photos, though the settings were incorrect, and flash was used through window glass, rendering the photos unusable for definitive analysis. The object was described as 'car-sized' and moved in soft waves. Air traffic control at Umeå Airport reported no aircraft in the area at the time, and other potential explanations like military planes or helicopters were ruled out.

Rödlila Klot (Reddish-Purple Sphere)

On September 30, 1978, near Töreboda, Sweden, seven people observed a large, reddish-purple 'star' moving south. It was described as two-thirds the size of a full moon, with smoke trails rising from it. The object disappeared into clouds about 2-3 km south. The observation lasted 1-2 minutes.

"Spotlight" Shot Straight Up!

On November 4, 1978, near Hedenäset, Sweden, a couple driving at night saw a bright, white light resembling a spotlight. The object approached them, then suddenly shot upwards at incredible speed, leaving a trail of red, yellow, and white light for about 2 seconds. The total observation time was about 10 seconds.

Should Have Crashed with Such Low Speed!

On November 18, 1978, near Vilhelmina, Sweden, a cigar-shaped object without wings was observed by Mats Kanon and his family. It was estimated to be about the size of a Metropolitan aircraft and was flying at an altitude of approximately 200 meters. The speed was perceived as so slow that it seemed it should crash, yet it moved horizontally before disappearing. The object was described as silver-colored.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent mystery of UFO phenomena, the challenges of scientific investigation, and the potential for ancient civilizations to hold clues to unexplained aerial phenomena. The magazine's stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging the reporting of sightings while also exploring scientific and historical explanations, even those that challenge conventional understanding. There is a clear emphasis on presenting evidence and theories that might be considered unconventional by mainstream science, suggesting a belief that UFOs represent a genuine, albeit poorly understood, phenomenon.

Title: UFO-Aktuellt
Issue: 1/1979
Date: January 1979
Publisher: UFO-Sverige
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
Price: 15 kr

This issue of UFO-Aktuellt, published by UFO-Sverige, focuses on unexplained aerial phenomena (UAP) with a prominent feature on Elvis Presley's alleged UFO sightings and beliefs. It also includes detailed accounts of several sightings reported in Sweden during late 1978.

Elvis Presley Saw UFO!

The lead article, written by Roger Ersson, delves into the beliefs of Elvis Presley regarding extraterrestrial life and UFOs, based on interviews with his former bodyguards Red West, Sonny West, and Dave Hebler. Presley was reportedly convinced that UFOs and alien beings visited Earth. Dave Hebler recounts Presley's belief that 'they are coming, but they will not harm us. If they make contact, we should not be afraid.' The article also describes an incident in 1966 where Presley witnessed a bright light between trees at his estate, which he identified as a 'flying saucer'. The light moved closer, disappeared, and reappeared, causing Presley to investigate. He later told his bodyguards that the beings would not harm them.

Sightings from Sweden

Långsmalt Gult Objekt (Long, Narrow Yellow Object)

Location: Möklinta, Västmanland, Sweden
Date: November 22, 1978, 07:50
Witness: Ulla-Britt Andersson

Ulla-Britt Andersson reported observing a long, yellow object for about five minutes while having breakfast. The object, estimated to be about half a meter long, moved slowly from southeast to southwest. It took nearly two minutes to cross the width of a barn roof (40 meters long). She also noted three dark smoke puffs from the rear of the object, as if it were correcting its course. The Swedish Air Force in Östersund was notified.

Starkt Ljusken Under (Strong Light Beam Under)

Location: Sala, Västmanland, Sweden
Date: November 24, 1978, 15:15
Witness: Barbro Redlund

Barbro Redlund, along with her neighbor and children, witnessed a strange light phenomenon in the sky over Folkets park. The object had a large light beam underneath and moved slowly, appearing to 'puff' forward with a tail of fire. Its shape was difficult to determine, appearing round one moment and oval the next. It was described as larger than an airplane. The light beam was as large as the object itself. The phenomenon disappeared rapidly, described as vanishing 'like magic'. The total observation time was 4-5 minutes. A helicopter was observed shortly after.

Dags-Observation (Daytime Observation)

Location: Selånger (near Sundsvall), Medelpad, Sweden
Date: December 5, 1978, 14:05
Witnesses: Sune Johansson and 10 schoolchildren

Sune Johansson, a school bus driver, observed three shiny objects in the clear blue sky for approximately 20 minutes. Initially mistaking them for airplanes, he noted their slow movement. Near Töva, the objects stopped and hovered motionless. Johansson estimated their altitude to be between 200 and 400 meters. He observed that the objects disappeared behind a forest area. The distance between the three objects remained constant at about 10-20 meters. Johansson emphasized that the two smaller objects were of the same size and not further away. The objects hovered stably without lateral movement or tilting.

Roterande Objekt (Rotating Object)

Location: Lillån (5 km N. Örebro), Närke, Sweden
Date: December 21, 1978, 23:40
Witnesses: Manne Karlsson and his wife

Manne Karlsson, an electrician, and his wife observed a rotating object for 10-15 minutes at an angle of 35-40 degrees. The object appeared as two stacked discs with a combined apparent size of 20 centimeters. It moved about one meter to the left of a pine tree top. The object rotated, displaying lights in red, blue, green, and yellow colors that swept across the outer edge. The witness noted that the colors disappeared as new ones appeared. It was unclear if the entire object rotated or just the light ramp. The object was observed in clear, starry conditions with temperatures around 20 degrees below zero.

Fru Karlsson reported that the upper and lower segments shifted while her husband retrieved binoculars, with the light between the segments appearing white.

UFO-Sverige's "Handlingsprogram"

The final page promotes UFO-Sverige's new introductory booklet, "Handlingsprogram." This 50-page, illustrated booklet is available for 30 SEK and aims to equip readers with background information on UFOs, techniques for interviewing witnesses, and conducting site investigations. It is presented as a valuable document documenting pioneering work in proving the existence of UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently features witness accounts of unexplained aerial phenomena, often with detailed descriptions of object shapes, movements, and light characteristics. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and documentation of these phenomena, encouraging public engagement and providing resources like the "Handlingsprogram" to educate and involve readers. The inclusion of a celebrity sighting (Elvis Presley) highlights a common theme in UFO literature, aiming to broaden appeal and suggest the significance of the topic.