UFO Mail - No 039 - 2004

Magazine Overview

Title: Skandinavisk UFO Information
Issue: nr. 39
Date: 7. juni 2004
Publisher: Danmarks UFO Forening

This issue of Skandinavisk UFO Information focuses on two main topics: the rare astronomical event of the Venus transit and an unusual sighting of condensation trails. The magazine provides detailed information on observing the Venus transit, offers insights into its historical context, and presents a report on a peculiar atmospheric phenomenon.

Venus Transit: A Rare Celestial Event

The lead article, "Kig ikke direkte på himlen - denne gang!" (Don't look directly at the sky - this time!) by Ole Henningsen, announces the Venus transit on Tuesday, June 8, 2004. This event, where the planet Venus passes in front of the Sun as seen from Earth, is described as a rare occurrence, with the last one taking place on December 6, 1882. The article emphasizes the importance of observing this phenomenon safely, warning readers not to look directly at the Sun without proper eye protection, such as solar eclipse glasses, and advising against using makeshift methods like dark negatives or smoked glass. A recommended safe observation method involves projecting the Sun's image from binoculars onto a white screen.

The transit was visible from approximately 07:19 to 13:32, with Venus appearing as a small dark dot moving across the southern part of the Sun's disk. This event causes a minor dimming of the Sun's brightness by only 1-2%, akin to a mini-solar eclipse.

Public viewing events were organized across Denmark, and for those unable to attend, the phenomenon could be followed online. The Danish National Space Institute, in collaboration with Greve Gymnasium and the Astronomical Society for Køge Bugt, provided live webcasts in both visible light and H-alpha wavelengths, allowing for observation of solar gas eruptions.

Scientifically, Venus transits have been used for distance measurements and studying the planet's atmosphere. The article also highlights a historical "film" created from 147 glass plate negatives taken by American astronomer David Peck Todd on December 6, 1882, during a previous transit. These negatives were later animated to create a visual representation of the event.

The next Venus transit after 2004 is predicted for 2012, but will be best observed from Japan. Subsequent transits are not expected until 2117 and 2125, making the 2004 event a significant opportunity for contemporary observers.

Observation of - Condensation Trail?

Another significant section details an unusual observation reported to SUFOI by two individuals (one 39 years old and another 13 years old, who wished to remain anonymous). The observation took place on May 5, 2004, around 20:40, near Hareskoven in Denmark, in the west, over the sunset.

The witnesses described seeing a small, metallic-like object high in the sky, possibly an aircraft, which appeared to be surrounded by white light, likely due to sunlight reflecting off it. The most striking aspect of the observation was the sudden formation of a condensation trail from right to left. This trail was described as abrupt, rectangular, and lasting only about one second before disappearing completely. Immediately after, a second, similar condensation trail formed and disappeared in the same manner.

The observers estimated the condensation trails to be about 3 millimeters high and 3 centimeters long. They found the rapid formation, abrupt cessation, and quick disappearance of these trails to be highly unusual, unlike typical condensation trails. The observers requested explanations for this phenomenon.

Expert Analysis and Related Phenomena

The magazine consulted the Danish Meteorological Institute (DMI) and NASA regarding the condensation trail report. John Cappelen from DMI's Information Department for Weather and Climate referred to unusual photographs of condensation trails taken by Mikael Schröder in Borbjerg, Denmark, on July 12, 2002. These photos showed similar "square" or rectangular condensation trails.

Patrick Minnis from NASA's Atmospheric Sciences Competency confirmed seeing similar, though less pronounced, condensation trails. He mentioned experiments in 1995 involving two aircraft flying in formation to study such phenomena. The conclusion from these studies was that under specific atmospheric conditions, condensation trails could form rings, resembling smoke rings.

Minnis suggested that Mikael Schröder's photos likely depicted condensation trails influenced by wingtip vortices from aircraft. DMI also pointed to other published foreign photos, including one that bore a strong resemblance to the Danish photos and was linked to a new propulsion method for the mysterious Aurora aircraft.

The article concludes that while condensation trails from aircraft are common, the specific characteristics described in the report—rapid formation, abrupt disappearance, and unusual shapes—make it noteworthy. The magazine encourages readers to share their own observations and experiences.

Call to Action

The issue ends with a call for readers to forward the "ufo-mail" to friends and family, encouraging them to subscribe to receive updates on Danish and international UFO observations and related materials. Subscription information is available at www.ufo.dk.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently covers unexplained aerial phenomena and astronomical events. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting observations and seeking explanations, while also providing factual information on astronomical occurrences like the Venus transit. There is a clear emphasis on safe observation practices and encouraging reader participation through reporting their own sightings and experiences.