UFO Mail - No 089 - 2007

Magazine Overview

Title: Skandinavisk UFO Information
Issue: 89
Date: July 11, 2007
Publisher: Danmarks UFO Forening

This issue of Skandinavisk UFO Information delves into several UFO-related cases, primarily focusing on an investigation into mysterious lights observed over the Baltic Sea and a peculiar sky phenomenon over Iran. It also touches upon the increasing prevalence of potentially fabricated UFO imagery online.

Mystiske lys over Østersøen opklaret

This article, authored by Ole Henningsen, details the investigation into a sighting of mysterious lights over the Baltic Sea on May 23, 2007. The initial report came from John Christiansen, a 35-year-old webdesigner from Bønnet, Falster. Christiansen described seeing five lights ignite sequentially on the southern horizon over the Baltic Sea. He managed to film one of the lights before they disappeared. He noted that the lights did not behave like distress flares and were not seen being launched.

Following an appeal for information, Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI) received reports from 11 additional observers on Lolland and Falster. By analyzing Christiansen's video footage and the directional bearings from multiple witnesses, SUFOI was able to pinpoint the location of the lights over the Baltic Sea, approximately 30 km southeast of Gedser.

To clarify the nature of the sighting, SUFOI contacted Danish military authorities. The Flyvertaktisk Kommando (FTK) in Karup stated that there was no Danish military activity in the air over the area at that time. The Søværnets Operative Kommando (SOK) also confirmed that neither distress flares nor rescue helicopters were deployed in the area. Further inquiries to the Bornholms Marinedistrikt and the coastal watch station in Gedser yielded no relevant information.

The breakthrough came when SUFOI contacted NAVIAIR, the state-owned company responsible for air traffic control in Danish airspace. NAVIAIR provided radar data for the date and time in question. The radar images showed foreign military aircraft activity over land and the Baltic Sea between Stralsund and Rostock in Germany. These aircraft were flying at an altitude of 12,000 feet (approximately 3,650 meters) in German airspace, but were visible on NAVIAIR's radar.

While NAVIAIR could not specify the exact nature of the lights (e.g., flares, searchlights), the timing and direction of the military activity coincided precisely with the witness observations. The article concludes that the observed phenomena were indeed the activities of these foreign military aircraft, possibly related to exercises or security for the upcoming G-8 summit in Rostock.

Mystisk iransk sky

Authored by Lennart Rasmussen, this section reports on a mysterious, bright sky phenomenon observed over Iran on the night of June 15, 2007. Three astronomers—Babak A. Tafreshi, Oshin Zakarian, and Pouria Nazemi—witnessed the event. Tafreshi described the object as initially diffuse and weak, then transforming into a bluish cone that moved at approximately 20 degrees per minute. Another witness, Amir Hossein Abolfath, also described a bluish, fast-moving cloud that was observed by another person 900 km away from Tehran.

The mystery was potentially solved by a rocket launch from Cape Canaveral's Complex 41 on June 15, 2007. An Atlas V rocket was launched to deploy national surveillance satellites. However, a malfunction caused the satellites to enter an incorrect orbit. While the satellites were able to correct their orbits, excess fuel from the rocket was reportedly jettisoned, creating the observed atmospheric phenomenon. Further information is available at a provided URL.

Mærkeligt objekt på internettet

This article by Ole Henningsen addresses the increasing appearance of peculiar "UFO pictures" on the internet, circulating through newsgroups, blogs, and expert websites. The author questions the origin and authenticity of these images, noting that they often appear anonymously.

The article discusses the possibility that these objects are computer-generated. Experts from MUFON (Mutual UFO Network), who work with computer-generated imagery for films, have examined the images. They believe the objects are indeed computer-generated, pointing to technical details in the photographs. MUFON anticipates that video footage of these objects in motion may soon appear online. The article notes that the images often surface anonymously and are shared without the photographer coming forward. The article includes images of what appear to be unusual structures or models, one of which is labeled "Capitola, CA-05-16-07."

One of the images shows a large, rectangular object suspended by cables beneath a helicopter, with a wind turbine in the background. Another image shows a similar suspended rectangular object. The author mentions a personal sighting of a similar "monster" flying past his home on Lolland a week prior to the publication.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts an investigative approach, seeking to explain reported phenomena through logical and evidence-based reasoning, often collaborating with official authorities and experts. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards unexplained phenomena but with a strong emphasis on rigorous investigation and debunking hoaxes or misidentifications. The publication aims to provide clarity and factual explanations for sightings, as demonstrated by the successful resolution of the Baltic Sea lights case. There is also an awareness of the challenges posed by digital manipulation and the need to critically assess online content related to UFOs.

Title: Nyheder fra rummet (News from Space)
Issue: 2007
Date: 2007
Publisher: SUFOI (Society for UFO Research in Denmark)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of 'Nyheder fra rummet' focuses on astronomy, space exploration, and UFO phenomena, featuring news from the Tycho Brahe Planetarium and personal accounts.

Tycho Brahe Medaljen 2007

The main article announces that in April 2007, the Bodil Pedersen Foundation awarded the Tycho Brahe Gold Medal and a grant of 25,000 DKK to astrophysicist Michael J. D. Linden-Vørnle. The award recognizes his persistent efforts to make the universe accessible to everyone, regardless of age. The article traces Linden-Vørnle's lifelong fascination with astronomy, starting from his confirmation day in 1982 when he received his first telescope, and his ambition to become an astronomer.

Professor Henning Jørgensen from the University of Copenhagen highlighted Linden-Vørnle's multifaceted talent in communicating astronomy and space science through books, articles, and lectures during the award ceremony at the Tycho Brahe Planetarium. Linden-Vørnle himself gave a brief presentation after receiving the medal. He is known for his engaging commentary on astronomical events on radio and TV, and for being a sought-after speaker who can explain complex cosmic processes in a clear and accessible manner.

SUFOIs 50 Years Jubilee

The magazine mentions that Michael Linden-Vørnle will give a lecture titled "Are We Alone?" at SUFOI's UFO conference in November, celebrating its 50th anniversary. In this lecture, he will cover the universe's development from the Big Bang to DNA and present the latest findings in astrobiology.

Leadership Change at Tycho Brahe Planetarium

There is a report on a generational shift in the leadership of the Tycho Brahe Planetarium. As of June 1st, adm. dir. Peter O. Sevel has taken over as director, replacing adm. dir. Bjørn Franck Jørgensen, who retired after 20 years. Bjørn Franck Jørgensen is recognized for his over 30 years of work in amateur astronomy, writing, and publishing, significantly contributing to the dissemination of knowledge about astronomy and space.

Peter O. Sevel, the new director, expressed his enthusiasm for leading a modern cultural institution. He believes the planetarium's location and reputation provide a strong foundation for its future. He highlighted the new 3D hall and IMAX theater as offering entertaining and educational experiences about science. Sevel's background includes experience in sales and marketing at the Royal Danish Theatre and a role as Brand Director at UNICEF in New York.

Expanded Leadership Group

The leadership group at the planetarium has also been expanded. The daily management will now include adm. dir. Peter O. Sevel, vicedirector Steen Svendstorp Krener-Iversen (responsible for technology and development), and astrophysicist Michael Linden-Vørnle (responsible for communicating information about Earth and the universe).

Development of the Universe and Life

On June 18th, the planetarium hosted a public lecture by Spanish astrobiologist Juan Pérez Mercader, director of the Center for Astrobiology in Madrid. His center collaborates with ESA and NASA. Mercader also gave a lecture on astrobiology at the Niels Bohr Institute during his visit.

During his lecture, Mercader discussed the optimism surrounding the search for extraterrestrial life, suggesting humanity might be close to discovering non-terrestrial life forms. He emphasized that the search also involves defining what 'life' truly is, as current understanding is based solely on Earth's evolutionary history. He pointed to Mars as a particularly interesting candidate for the search for life, noting geological similarities to certain regions in Spain with iron-rich rocks and adapted bacteria. The red color of Mars is attributed to its iron-rich surface. The search for life generally focuses on carbon-based forms with liquid water, though the possibility of other forms is not excluded.

Mercader also mentioned that recent research from Mars probes indicates the past presence of water on the planet's surface, which disappeared about 3-4 billion years ago. He suggested that early life development on Earth might have had a parallel on Mars, underscoring the importance of continued space exploration. He concluded his lecture by playing a musical piece from the 11th century by the Islamic poet and scientist Omar Jayyam.

Danish Pilot on UFO Experience

This section details a presentation by pilot Dieter Betz to the SUFOI local group 'Storkøbenhavn'. Betz, who has flown approximately 16,000 hours in over 100 types of aircraft, shared a dramatic UFO experience he had 25 years prior while piloting a Boeing 737. He described a bright light appearing at low altitude, illuminating the cockpit intensely, and remaining stationary before moving downwards. He noted that over a hundred passengers and crew members witnessed the event. His full account can be found in 'ufo-nyt' no. 3/2006 and 'UFO-Mail' no. 73.

Betz also shared other experiences involving pilots and mentioned that his interest in UFOs was sparked after a friend sent him a peculiar photograph. This photograph, taken by professional photographer Bjarne Hunnecke at Irma Kød in Avedøre, had previously been examined by SUFOI's photo department without a definitive conclusion.

The event was attended by Michael Jeppesen, a reporter from Ekstra Bladet, who covered the meeting. The following day, Ekstra Bladet featured a large picture and a detailed report with the headline "40 Kinds of Intelligent Life," referencing a response to a question about life in the universe.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently covers advancements in astronomy and space exploration, often linking them to the activities and outreach of the Tycho Brahe Planetarium. There is a clear interest in the search for extraterrestrial life and the scientific discussions surrounding it. The inclusion of a pilot's personal UFO sighting and the coverage by a major newspaper indicate an openness to exploring unexplained aerial phenomena, though presented within the context of SUFOI's UFO research group. The editorial stance appears to be one of informing the public about scientific discoveries while also acknowledging and investigating UFO reports.

Title: Nyheder fra rummet (News from Space)
Issue Date: April 11, 2007
Content Focus: This issue primarily covers a visit by astronauts from the STS-116 space shuttle mission to Denmark and a review of a book on the history of space exploration.

Astronaut Visit to Denmark

The magazine reports on a visit by five astronauts from the STS-116 mission and their mission trainer to Denmark on April 11 and 12, 2007. The astronauts, including Nicholas J. M. Patrick, Joan E. Higginbotham, Christer Fuglesang (ESA-astronaut), Mark L. Polansky (captain), and Robert L. Curbeam, Jr., visited the Tycho Brahe Planetarium in Copenhagen. During a public event, they shared details about their mission aboard the space shuttle Discovery to the International Space Station (ISS) in December 2006. The mission's primary objective was to continue the expansion of the ISS.

The astronauts presented a wide range of video recordings of their diverse activities in and around the ISS, offering a more in-depth look than typically shown on television. They provided their own detailed explanations of these activities, including extensive 'outdoor' spacewalks around the space station. Following their presentation, there was an opportunity for the audience to ask questions.

Among the attendees were ministers Bertel Haarder and Helge Sander. Arla provided samples of their astronaut food, including yogurt and 'rumkugler' (rum balls).

UFO Question

A particular question from an audience member that caused a stir was whether the astronauts had seen any UFOs during their space journey. Captain Mark Polansky responded to this question, stating, "No, we haven't." He elaborated that while he couldn't speak for other astronauts like Gordon Cooper who claimed to have seen or experienced things, he personally had no knowledge of any UFO sightings.

The event was well-attended and included prominent figures in Danish space exploration, such as Christian F. Rovsing, spaceflight writers Helle and Henrik Stub, and members of the Danish Society for Space Research. Several Danish companies involved in space research also had exhibition stands.

Book Review: "Rejsen ud i rummet - de første 50 år"

The issue also features a review of the book "Rejsen ud i rummet - de første 50 år" (The Journey into Space - the first 50 years) by Danish spaceflight writers Helle and Henrik Stub. The book, published in 2007, covers the first 50 years of the space age. It is described as a comprehensive 500-page work available in Danish.

The authors, who are also educators in astronomy, physics, and mathematics, begin the book by detailing the historical starting points and prerequisites for rocketry, and the pioneers in the field. The book then proceeds chronologically through numerous space and rocket projects, both successful and unsuccessful. It includes numerous digressions and remarks that explore various relevant aspects and perspectives of spaceflight history over the past 50 years.

The book covers the Cold War's advancements in space, scientific exploration of planets, stars, and asteroids via space probes, and the use of satellites for military and civilian purposes, all of which impact daily life. It also touches upon the emerging field of space tourism.

A detailed account of the first Scandinavian in space, Swedish ESA astronaut Christer Fuglesang, and his work on the ISS in December 2006 is included. Fuglesang recounts seeing the northern lights over Northern Europe during his mission.

The review notes that while the book covers many aspects of space exploration, the reader might feel they have encountered much of the information before. However, it is praised for its interesting insights and comprehensive overview, especially for those new to the field or seeking an update on the first 50 years of space exploration.

The book is 496 pages long and costs 299 Danish Kroner, published by Gyldendal.

Call to Action

The magazine concludes with a request for readers to forward 'ufo-mail' to friends and family, encouraging them to subscribe to receive free, non-binding updates on Danish and international UFO observations, photographs, celestial phenomena, and offers on UFO-related materials.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to focus on space exploration, astronaut activities, and the history of spaceflight, with a particular interest in UFO phenomena as evidenced by the cover headline and the specific question posed to the astronauts. The editorial stance seems to be informative, aiming to provide readers with detailed accounts of space missions and historical perspectives. The inclusion of the 'ufo-mail' call to action suggests a leaning towards promoting interest in UFO-related content among its readership.