Magazine Summary
Information
Summary
This issue of Information magazine features the detailed account of the Cisco Grove UFO case from 1964, where Donald Smythe encountered a UFO and its occupants. It also covers the discovery of a mysterious silver sphere by the Betz family in Florida, a UFO sighting over Bariloche, Argentina, causing a power outage, and an extraordinary UFO observation in South Dakota. The magazine highlights the ongoing investigation into these phenomena and the challenges in verifying witness accounts.
Magazine Overview
Title: Information
Issue: No. 1, 1996
Volume: Argång 27
Publisher: UFO-Information
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0346-3540
This issue of *Information* magazine, dated 1996, is the first of volume 27. It is published by UFO-Information and is the oldest UFO magazine in Sweden. The cover features a starry sky with a prominent celestial object and the main headline "Sveriges äldsta UFO-tidskrift" (Sweden's oldest UFO magazine), along with a list of contents for the issue.
Editorial and Subscription Information
The magazine provides subscription details for UFO-Information, covering the period from January to December. The editor and publisher is Kjell Thörnlund, with contact details provided. Other collaborators include Håkan Gustavsson and Fredrik Häger. The editorial team consists of Sören Andersson, Tommy Gustavsson, and Kjell Thörnlund. The postal address is Box 9109, 580 09 Linköping. Subscription and membership cost 110 SEK for a full year. The magazine also promotes a "Jubilee Issue" from 10 years prior, containing significant Swedish UFO cases up to 1979, available for 35 SEK. Additionally, a "Handling Program" (Action Program) guide is offered for 30 SEK, described as an excellent guide to objectives, interview methodology, and fieldwork.
Editorial (Ledare)
Editor Kjell Thörnlund welcomes readers to a new year of UFO-Information. He apologizes for significant delays caused by new printing regulations, which forced them to pay higher prices for printing unless a certain annual volume was met. To compensate, they will switch printers. Issues 3 and 4 of the previous year were combined into a double issue, which will be released soon. While UFO reports in 1996 were not numerous, the magazine plans to launch an "Internet initiative" in early 1997, including a website and links to other UFO organizations.
Reader Contributions and Editorial Policy
The magazine welcomes articles and discussion contributions from its readership. Manuscripts should be typed with maximum line spacing, or written legibly if a typewriter is unavailable. Articles should be submitted on one side of the page only, and authors are responsible for their content. Reprinting material from UFO-Information requires permission from the publisher. Readers are encouraged to send in tips about UFO events reported in local press or heard from others. They are also asked to help facilitate contact with witnesses by noting down phone numbers or postal addresses.
Call for Collaborators
UFO-Information is seeking skilled translators for English, French, German, and Spanish texts. They also wish to connect with UFO enthusiasts who can help investigate and process current UFO cases in their local areas. For more information, readers can call 013-273399 (evenings) or write to UFO-Information.
The magazine is run by volunteers and is non-profit, publishing at least 4 issues per year irregularly.
Key Articles and Reports
The Cisco Grove Case 1964
This extensive report, compiled by Ted Bloecher and Paul Cerny, details the 1964 Cisco Grove UFO incident. The case involves Donald Smythe, a hunter who, while alone in the Cisco Grove area of Northern California, encountered a luminous object and subsequently three non-human entities. Smythe, initially lost after separating from his companions, observed a light moving erratically. He then saw three luminous, rectangular "surfaces" or "plates" on the object. Later, a dark object with a flashing light descended, and two entities emerged, described as "humanoid-like" with large, dark eyes. A third entity, described as "robot-like" with glowing red-orange eyes and a metallic uniform, also appeared. The entities seemed to be examining the surroundings and communicated with the craft via a "hooting sound." Smythe, fearing for his safety, climbed a tree and attempted to scare them away by setting fires. The entities reportedly emitted a gas that caused him to lose consciousness. He also described an incident where the "robot" manipulated embers from a fire with a hand resembling a medieval metal gauntlet. The report notes that Smythe was reluctant to go public with his experience due to fear of ridicule and job loss. The case was previously reported with inaccuracies in APRO Bulletin and John Keel's article in Saga. This report aims to present the most accurate account, based on interviews conducted by Paul Cerny.
Further details include Smythe's description of the entities' appearance, their movements, and their apparent interaction with the environment. He also recounts how he tried to deter them by throwing objects and setting fires. The report mentions that the entities seemed to be trying to climb the tree where Smythe was hiding. The military, including Captain Cloud from McClellan Air Force Base, investigated the incident, and Smythe provided a map of the area. Despite assurances of anonymity, Smythe and his brother were contacted by journalists. A pilo tip from the incident was given to the military and later ended up in the archives of Edward U. Condon.
Aftermath of the Cisco Grove Incident
Fru Smythe reported in 1973 that Don experienced severe physical and emotional reactions after the incident, including nightmares, disorientation, and physical pain. He suffered from recurring nightmares about the "robot" and its glowing eyes. He also developed a ringing in his ears, which he associated with the UFO experience, and would often look up at the sky when it occurred. The report notes that the incident may have had lasting psychological effects on Don.
UFO Over Argentina
This section, sourced from ISCNI*Flash, reports an incident on August 1, 1995, where a passenger jet from Aerolineas Argentinas, with 103 people on board, encountered a luminous object while approaching Bariloche Airport. The object, described as a "spaceship" with multi-colored flashing lights, flew in formation with the jet. The incident caused a power outage at the airport and in the nearby town, disrupting landing procedures. Witnesses included the flight crew, passengers, air traffic control personnel, and ground observers. The object reportedly climbed rapidly and disappeared at high speed.
Extraordinary UFO in S. Dakota
This report, based on an interview by Wanda Sudrala for ISCNI, describes an event on April 15, 1995, near Sturgis, South Dakota. Oliver Puppel observed a large, cylinder-shaped object estimated to be 18 meters wide and 36 meters high. The object displayed five rows of lights (green, blue, red) that oscillated, suggesting a cylindrical form. The object hovered at a distance of about 800 meters, then moved closer, stopping directly in front of Puppel's car. It emitted no sound or exhaust. The lights changed, and the object then moved backward and disappeared into a cloud, followed by a bright yellow light explosion. Puppel was reportedly frightened but managed to speak to his grandmother on his car phone during the sighting.
The Mysterious "Silver Sphere"
This article, from UFO-Information No. 2, 1975, details the discovery of a mysterious silver sphere by the Betz family on March 27, 1974, near Fort George Island, Florida. The sphere, about the size of a bowling ball, was found in a field. It moved on its own, changed direction, and responded to sounds, even mimicking musical notes played by Terry Matthews. The sphere was examined by scientists, including Dr. Carl Williston, who noted its unusual magnetic properties, including a possible third pole not conforming to known physical laws. The sphere's movement patterns were also described as defying known physics, suggesting an internal guidance system. Reports of similar spheres had been received from other parts of the world. The article questions whether this sphere is concrete evidence of extraterrestrial existence.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently focuses on detailed case reports of UFO sightings and encounters, often featuring witness testimonies and investigative findings. There is a clear emphasis on presenting factual accounts and encouraging reader participation through contributions and tips. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into UFO phenomena, aiming to document and analyze these events, even when official channels are perceived as lacking. The magazine also highlights the psychological and physical effects of such encounters on individuals, as seen in the Cisco Grove case aftermath.
This issue of the MUFON UFO Journal, dated February 1994 (Volume 40, Number 4), features a comprehensive special report titled "Varelserna" (The Beings) by Dan Wright. The report, a collaboration between MUFON and the Fund for UFO Research (FUFOR), analyzes 95 reported alien abduction cases based on transcribed interviews, many conducted under hypnosis. The issue also includes a report on UFO sightings in the Andes and an Aboriginal legend.
Special Report: Varelserna (Part 1) by Dan Wright
Dan Wright's extensive report delves into the details of alien abductions, drawing from 317 transcripts from 13 abduction researchers. The data is based on 95 distinct cases, involving 27 males, 58 females, and 10 cases with both male and female subjects.
Kidnapping Location
The majority of abductions (95 cases) occurred in the subject's own home, primarily the bedroom. Fifteen subjects reported other locations, including their cars (10 cases) and cabins or campsites (6 cases).
Unseen Presence
Over a quarter of subjects (28%) perceived the presence of a being before visual confirmation. This pre-cognition was often described as an electric or tingling sensation, a buzzing or humming sound, or an intuitive 'knowing' of an intruder's presence.
Familiarity
While not universal, a significant number of subjects (34 out of 95) reported recognizing their abductors or at least one specific being, a phenomenon David Jacobs terms a 'familiar being.' Telepathic communication of names occurred in 10 cases, and 18 subjects were told they were 'chosen,' 'special,' or 'protected.' These factors combined appeared in 44 cases.
Craft Observation
Only a slight majority of subjects (55%) reported observing an unusual object, even when excluding simple night lights, during or outside of abduction scenarios. Table 1 details the shapes of craft reported in 31 cases where a specific form was discernible. Disc-shaped craft were the most common (47%), followed by spherical (17%) and cylindrical (13%).
Transportation Methods
Surprisingly, many subjects had no memory of boarding or returning from a craft. Of those who recalled being transported, four mentioned a small capsule. Levitation was a more common method, reported by 33 subjects. In 17 cases, subjects were lifted outdoors by a beam of light. In 20 cases, individuals were taken through closed windows or doors without apparent damage.
Dizziness/Nausea
Twenty subjects reported experiencing dizziness or nausea during the episode, most frequently associated with levitation cases.
Examination Room
Subjects often described corridors or tunnels upon entering a craft, with 35 cases noting this detail. Examination rooms were typically sparsely furnished, resembling a doctor's office. The room shape was described as round or dome-shaped in 25 cases, aligning with the prevalence of disc-shaped craft. Room colors were predominantly white (18 cases) or grey (11 cases). Lighting varied, with 25 cases reporting a brightly lit room and 13 cases a dimly lit or dark one. Furnishings included storage units, cabinets, computers, and screens. A central piece of furniture was a table, reported in 52 cases, often described as hard, narrow, and resting on a single pedestal. Table 2 details the room's furnishings.
Scents
Eighteen subjects detected unusual scents. Four reported smelling burnt hair or tissue, while six described an unpleasant odor emanating from the beings themselves.
Other Subjects
In 30 cases, other individuals were observed on the craft, suggesting they too might have been abductees. Communication between these individuals and the subject was rare. A few subjects felt they recognized certain individuals from previous encounters.
Being's Skin
The 'Greys' are a common type, with 38 subjects reporting grey or grey-white skin. Nineteen described beings as entirely 'white.' Other skin colors included dark (18 cases), blue or blue-grey (8 cases), and green or greenish-grey (7 cases). Thirteen subjects reported beings with an aura or 'glow,' and 5 described 'shadow-like' beings. Table 3 illustrates the distribution of skin colors.
Being's Clothing
Surprisingly, 24 subjects reported beings wearing a 'coat,' 'cape,' or 'cloak,' often associated with leader figures. Overalls or 'wetsuits' were reported by 23 subjects. Black or dark clothing was described in 21 cases, followed by white (18), silver (6), and silver-blue or blue-grey (4). Insignia and accessories were noted, including emblems, belts, and a metal pin.
Being's Movement
Beings were observed walking (51%), levitating or floating (41%), moving with a shuffling gait (5%), or with a jerky movement (3%). Table 5 details movement types.
Being's Length and Build
Sixty-six subjects provided length estimates. 57 described beings as 'short' (90-135 cm), 47 as 'tall' (longer than a human or approximately human height), and 10 as 'very tall' (over 180 cm, often exceeding 210 cm). Forty-four subjects described build: 39 noted a 'thin' or 'scrawny' physique, 2 a normal human build, and 10 a 'stocky,' 'muscular,' 'broad,' or 'powerful' build.
Facial Features
Large, black, almond-shaped eyes are common. Eleven cases noted pupils, irises, and whites of the eyes, with 3 reporting 'cat-like' eyes. Eye colors reported were: black (35), green (4), blue (3), and brown (3). Noses were often described as a slight bump with two small nostrils (30 out of 33 cases). Some beings reportedly lacked noses entirely. Mouths were often described as a slit or 'springa' without lips (20 out of 25 cases), or simply a small opening. Ears were either not visible or described as an opening on the side of the head, or small earlobes.
Being's Skin Texture
In six cases, the skin was described as 'semi-transparent' or 'thin,' revealing an underlying grey layer. Seventeen subjects reported 'smooth,' 'plastic-like,' or 'vinyl-like' skin, typically on shorter beings. Fifteen subjects described wrinkled skin, often on older-looking beings. Thirteen subjects felt the beings' skin was cool or cold to the touch.
Summary of Findings
Wright emphasizes that while fantasies and lies have plagued UFO research, the consistency of details across these 95 cases is impressive. He notes specific recurring descriptions, such as unusual odors, which warrant further investigation. The second part of the report will cover 'flock leaders,' communication, consciousness alteration, physical evidence, and sexual elements.
UFO Sighting: The Flying Saucer's Night in the Andes
This section recounts an incident from December 23, 1972, near Córdoba, Argentina, where several men, including Sr Marcello Aballay, witnessed multiple UFOs. They observed a bright, fluorescent white light shaped like a triangle, followed by other disc-shaped objects moving at high speed. One object passed very close, exhibiting unusual maneuverability. The craft were described as having edges of a different color than their core, with one being compared to 'uranium grass green.' The main object was described as semi-transparent, like a cloud, with a darker central area that completely obscured stars.
The Great Shaking: An Aboriginal Legend
This piece, collected by Oscar and Ernestine Little from Hannah Wondy Wolfe, recounts an ancient Aboriginal legend from Western Australia about a cataclysmic event known as 'The Great Shaking.' This event drastically reshaped the landscape, causing mountains to move and the sun's rising and setting points to shift. The legend explains the diversification of tribes and languages following this event.
SAF-Bulletin
This is an announcement for the SOLNA ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY, detailing membership fees and contact information.
B-Post: Do you have a picture in your drawer?
This section is a call for submissions from readers, inviting them to send in photographs of unusual or strange objects for analysis. It highlights the experience of the "ARIKVET FÖR UFO-FORSKNING" (Archive for UFO Research) in evaluating such images, mentioning contacts with professional labs.
Two example photos are included: one from Mora, Sweden, in 1952, described as two unexplained military signal lights, and another captured by Inge Falk, noted as difficult to interpret due to extreme magnification.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the detailed investigation of alien abduction phenomena, UFO sightings, and the analysis of physical evidence and witness testimony. The editorial stance, particularly in Dan Wright's report, is one of serious inquiry into these phenomena, acknowledging the challenges posed by hoaxes but emphasizing the consistency of details in credible cases. The inclusion of an Aboriginal legend and a call for photographic evidence suggests a broad approach to unexplained aerial phenomena and related experiences.
Jag hörde inte det minsta ljud. "Det var det som skrämde mig," berättade han för NICAP-utredaren Paul Cerny. "Jag hörde inte det minsta ljud."
Key Incidents
Donald Smythe reported an encounter with a UFO and three non-human entities while hunting, involving strange lights, a silent craft, and the emission of gas.
The Betz family found a mysterious, self-moving silver sphere that responded to sound and magnetic influence.
A passenger jet and ground personnel observed a luminous object that caused a power outage at the airport.
Oliver Puppel observed a large, cylinder-shaped object with colored lights that caused a power outage and exhibited unusual movements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Cisco Grove case?
The Cisco Grove case is a UFO sighting reported by Donald Smythe in 1964, involving an encounter with a UFO and its occupants, characterized by strange lights, silent craft, and the emission of gas.
What was the mysterious silver sphere found in Florida?
The silver sphere, found by the Betz family in 1974, was a bowling ball-sized object that moved on its own, changed direction, emitted sounds, and responded to magnetic influence, suggesting an extraterrestrial origin.
What were the effects of the UFO sighting over Bariloche, Argentina?
The UFO sighting over Bariloche in 1995 caused a power outage at the airport and surrounding areas, affecting flight operations.
What is the significance of the ISSN number 0346-3540?
The ISSN number 0346-3540 identifies UFO-Information as a periodical publication.
In This Issue
People Mentioned
- Kjell ThörnlundEditor and publisher
- Håkan GustavssonCollaborator
- Fredrik HägerCollaborator
- Sören AnderssonEditor
- Tommy GustavssonEditor
- Donald E. KeyhoeMajor
- Donald SmytheWitness
- Paul CernyField investigator
- David SletteCommittee member
- L. J. LorenzenDirector
- James A. HarderDr.
- Coral LorenzenAuthor
- +13 more
Organisations
- UFO-Information
- NICAP
- APRO
- Flying Saucer Review
- Saga
- The Institute for the Study of Contact with Non-human Intelligence
- ISCNI
- Aerolineas Argentinas
- Omega Minus One
- CUFOS
- National Enquirer
- New York State University
- American Philosophical Society
- Project Blue Book
- +5 more
Locations
- Cisco Grove, USA
- Sacramento, USA
- Bay Area, USA
- Tucson, USA
- Arizona, USA
- California, USA
- Placer County, USA
- Loch Laven, USA
- Route 40, USA
- Kanjonen, USA
- Orangevale, USA
- Westwood, USA
- Kalifornien, USA
- Argentina, Argentina
- +6 more