UFO Mail - No 100 - 2008

Magazine Overview

This issue of "Skandinavisk UFO Information" (UFO-Mail nr. 100), dated July 21, 2008, is published by Danmarks UFO Forening. It celebrates its 100th issue with a special offer for subscribers and a look back at its first issue from April 2, 2002. The magazine features a prominent article on a recent UFO sighting and delves deeply into the release of UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) UFO archives.

Varm luft (Hot Air)

This section reports on a dramatic incident that occurred on June 22, 2008, as detailed by Ekstrabladet.dk. A British police helicopter was reportedly on a mission near a military base in Cardiff when an unidentified flying object (UFO) suddenly appeared and headed directly towards the helicopter. The pilot had to perform a sharp evasive maneuver to avoid a collision. The three officers on board recorded the event, but eventually had to abandon the pursuit due to low fuel. A spokesperson for the South Wales Police confirmed that the Air Support Unit had encountered an unusual aerial vehicle and that the relevant authorities were investigating. The officers involved were convinced they had seen a UFO.

The article also touches upon the media's role in sensationalizing such events, noting that The SUN newspaper's original report on the incident was based on a leak. Researchers Gary Anthony and David Clarke, along with SUFOI, investigated the case and suggested that the incident might be linked to a wedding reception where Chinese lanterns (small hot air balloons) were released. Air Traffic Control (ATC) in Cardiff had no record of unusual traffic, but did note the lantern release. The article speculates that The SUN's coverage might have been timed to coincide with the release of the movie "The X-files: I want to believe."

Ført bag lyset (Led Behind the Light)

This section recounts the story of Paul Bennewitz, who in the winter of 1979, observed multi-colored lights near the Manzano Weapons Storage Complex in New Mexico. Bennewitz took hundreds of photographs and filmed hours of footage of these objects. The article promises to detail how American intelligence agencies allegedly attempted to discredit him and distract from the real issue. This story is slated for a future issue of UFO-Nyt.

Nye engelske arkiver offentliggjort (New English Archives Published)

This is a significant portion of the magazine, detailing the public release of UK MoD UFO archives. Ole Henningsen writes about how the British MoD's UFO archives have been made public, generating considerable media attention. UFO researcher Jenny Randles has long advocated for this release, arguing that UFOs posed no threat to national security. Initially, Randles was denied access, with the archives being classified as "classified material."

Ingen rumskibe landet (No Spaceships Landed)

In 1983, Jenny Randles inquired about the MoD's stance on UFO phenomena. The ministry stated that their interest was solely in determining if UFO reports had any defense implications, and that there was no dedicated unit for studying UFOs. They acknowledged strange aerial observations but believed conventional explanations sufficed, with no evidence of landed spaceships. Viscount Long from the MoD indicated a willingness to consider releasing these reports.

Ufo-debat i Overhuset (UFO Debate in the House of Lords)

A debate in the House of Lords in 1982, involving a special UFO study group led by Lord Clancarty, is mentioned. Despite his close ties to the MoD, Admiral Lord Hill-Norton was unaware of the ministry's UFO archives. The intention to release these archives after the debate was delayed and eventually halted by the Falklands War.

David Clarke på banen (David Clarke Enters the Fray)

Thanks to the efforts of a new generation of UFO researchers, led by David Clarke, partial access to the British MoD's UFO archives was gained through the Freedom of Information Act 2000. David Clarke, who holds a Ph.D. in folkloristics and teaches journalism at Sheffield Hallam University, has been instrumental in this process.

Asbestproblemer overvundet (Asbestos Problems Overcome)

This section details a practical challenge in releasing the archives: 24 file cabinets containing reports from the 1970s to 2002 were sealed due to asbestos contamination in the basement of the "Old War Office" in London. After 18 months of work and a cost of 3 million British pounds, the archives were salvaged. They were then scanned and made available online through the National Archives and the MoD's Freedom of Information Act website. The DI55 UFO archive was prioritized for release due to high public interest. A letter from the MoD to David Clarke dated March 26, 2007, confirmed the decision to rescue and digitize these 24 file cabinets.

7.000 rapporter (7,000 Reports)

Dr. David Clarke commented in 2007 that the 24 file cabinets contained approximately 7,000 reports, analyses, and correspondence. He noted that the material, once online, would be valuable, with some reports being entirely new to the public and never before seen by the MoD's UFO Desk. The archives also include 3,000 reports received by the MoD between 1987 and 1997. Clarke hailed the release as a major breakthrough for British ufology and the Freedom of Information Act campaign in the UK.

While initial releases in May 2008 may have been less sensational than some hoped, future releases are expected to contain more concrete and serious information.

Flere rapporter senere (More Reports Later)

The National Archives will be releasing all ministry UFO reports from 1978 onwards over a four-year period. These archives can be accessed at www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/ufos. The Danish press had high hopes for the release, with reports in May 2008 describing "thousands of top-secret documents" about phenomena that could only be explained by extraterrestrial life. The MoD states that 90 percent of reports have logical explanations, with the remaining 10 percent being unexplained but not posing a defense threat.

Korncirkler i arkivet (Crop Circles in the Archive)

Surprisingly, the released files also include reports on English crop circles. One report details a crop circle that appeared in Andover, Hampshire, in August 1985, investigated by the Army Air Corps. An investigation team photographed the circle and noted the wheat was laid down in a complete circular pattern without footprints. The Army's report expressed surprise at the lack of footprints, leading to speculation about a possible official cover-up. A DI55 employee noted in December 1985 that something unusual had occurred, but from a defense perspective, the report caused no concern. The employee also considered the possibility of mini-tornadoes. It would be another five years before the crop circle makers Doug and Dave revealed their role.

David Clarke som konsulent (David Clarke as Consultant)

David Clarke provides a 12-page introduction to UFO investigations and archive releases on The National Archives website. He acts as a consultant for The National Archives (TNA) in this matter. The downloadable documents cover the period from 1978 to 1987. The initial eight files, ranging from 14.6 to 51.7 MB, were initially free but now cost 3.5 pounds per file. The material is presented in negative (white text on black background), making it difficult to read and print without conversion.

Bizarre historier (Bizarre Stories)

Unfortunately, the media, both in Denmark and abroad, focused on the more bizarre aspects of the released UFO reports. The archives contain letters from citizens who claim to have seen or contacted extraterrestrial beings. One British woman described a six-year relationship with an E.T.-like being named Algur from 1975-1981, which ended when Algur was killed. Another report from 1983 tells of a 78-year-old woman who, while fishing, observed aliens in green overalls who were told to leave because they were too old and weak. A document from February 21, 1982, describes a group at a pub reporting an unknown object with green and red blinking lights flying towards Gatwick Airport. Much of the previously classified material consists of correspondence from the public to government officials.

Uddrag af rapport fra de engelske ufo-arkiver (Excerpt from the English UFO Archives Report)

This section includes a scanned excerpt of a report, likely from the MoD archives, concerning Unidentified Flying Objects. It references a report from RNAS Culdrose dated September 13, 1985, which follows up on a UFO report received from LATCO by signal, noting its unusual nature.

Også seriøse tildragelser (Also Serious Incidents)

Dr. David Clarke emphasizes that the released archives also contain cases of interest to more serious UFO researchers. He notes that while many reports are not particularly exciting, some are more interesting. He also points out that the interesting reports do not appear to be thoroughly investigated. Four of the eight initial files released came from the MoD's Air Staff secretariats (DS8 and SEK(AS)), known to UFO researchers as the "UFO-desk." The remaining four files are from DI55, which provided technical and scientific assistance to the "UFO-desk" and was responsible for the "Condign Report" on UFOs. Personal information such as names and addresses of witnesses and MoD personnel have been removed in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act, though experienced researchers may still be able to identify individuals.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently highlights the release and analysis of official UFO documentation, particularly from the UK MoD. There's a recurring theme of media sensationalism versus the more sober, investigative approach of dedicated UFO researchers like David Clarke and Jenny Randles. The publication champions the principles of transparency and the public's right to information, as exemplified by the Freedom of Information Act. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious optimism regarding the value of these archives, acknowledging that while some reports are mundane, others may hold significant clues. The magazine also touches upon the historical context of UFO investigations and the challenges faced by researchers in obtaining and processing information. The publication seems to encourage critical thinking about UFO phenomena, balancing sensational claims with factual reporting and expert analysis.

Title: UFO-Aktuelt
Issue: 1/2009
Publisher: SUFOI
Date: January 2009

This issue of UFO-Aktuelt delves into recent UFO/UAP sightings reported in Denmark, with a significant focus on explaining these phenomena as hot air balloons. It also covers the release of previously classified UK government UFO files by The National Archives. The magazine presents a collection of detailed eyewitness accounts, expert commentary, and SUFOI's investigative conclusions.

UK Government UFO Files Released

The issue begins by highlighting the release of old UFO reports by The National Archives in the UK. Dr. David Clarke discusses the content and background of these new files, which cover the years 1978-2002. These documents are available for download, and a podcast and video featuring Nick Pope, former UFO investigator at the Ministry of Defence, are mentioned as resources for further information. The article suggests that while the initial release might not contain sensational revelations, it is of great interest to UFO enthusiasts, particularly those interested in the historical aspect of government investigations.

Hot Air Balloons: This Summer's Hit!

The main feature of this issue, authored by Ole Henningsen, explores the numerous sightings of luminous phenomena reported in Denmark during the recent months. The primary hypothesis presented is that these sightings are largely due to hot air balloons, especially during warmer weather when more people are outdoors. Several detailed reports from different locations are presented:

Aarhus V, June 16, 2008

A couple reported seeing a light in the sky around 00:45. They described it as a bright spot, about one-sixth the size of the moon, with a warm color similar to a candle flame. Five more lights appeared in a row, moving without sound. The lights moved from southwest to northeast, with a speed that could be attributed to aircraft. The Danish Air Force (FTK) stated they had no aircraft in the air at that time. SUFOI's initial assessment, considering the wind direction, suggested the possibility of small, locally launched hot air balloons.

Aarhus V, June 19, 2008

Another report from Aarhus details an observation by a couple on June 19, 2008, around 00:41. They saw a bright, non-blinding light sphere, warm yellow to orange, flying silently. They initially mistook it for a star. Later, they observed five more light spheres flying in formation. The objects moved in a straight line without changing speed or direction. The observer attempted to photograph the phenomenon with a mobile phone, but the quality was poor. The observer's husband later expressed difficulty in finding a satisfactory explanation, though balloons were considered, he felt the observed objects were different from typical balloons.

Rendbjerg, Egernsund, July 3, 2008

Two couples observed a 'fireball' gliding through the sky at 'helicopter height' near Flensborg Fjord around 23:15. The object moved silently from east to west in a straight line for approximately 5 minutes. Photographs were taken, and analysis by SUFOI's photo department suggested the light source might be a burning/luminous material in a small hot air balloon. The photographer zoomed in, but the camera struggled to focus due to the light conditions.

Odense Area, May 17, 2008

Reports from the Odense area describe luminous white/orange/reddish lights or light spheres observed on the evening of May 17. Toke Haunstrup from SUFOI's report work concluded that these were likely observations of small hot air balloons, with a flight direction from north to south, consistent with the prevailing wind. One observer reported four to five luminous objects moving in formation, with one object accelerating to join the others. They managed to capture footage with a new camera, but the results were not yet analyzed.

Bogense, May 10, 2008

IT-supporter Bernt Augustini reported seeing nine flying objects over Bogense around 22:50. Initially, four orange, constantly lit objects flew in formation, resembling 'panes on a card game.' They then ascended rapidly and faded out. This was followed by two more objects. The entire event lasted about 5 minutes. The observer noted the absence of sound and that it was a completely windless night, leading him to discount aircraft, balloons, or satellites.

Klint, Nykøbing Sjælland, circa 1980

An older report from around 1980 describes an observation by an individual identified as BI. The observer saw a sharp white light above trees that moved upwards and then horizontally across the sky. The light was visible for a prolonged period, eventually blending with the moon's light. The observer recalled receiving an explanation from SUFOI at the time but did not fully understand it and regretted not pursuing it further. The article notes that due to the time elapsed, a precise astronomical explanation is difficult without exact data, but the initial upward movement might suggest a bright planet like Mars, Jupiter, or Saturn.

SUFOI's Standard Response and Investigations

SUFOI provides a standard response to all report submissions, acknowledging the observation and stating that it will be registered and compared with other reports. They mention that many observations can be explained by natural phenomena like aircraft lights, shooting stars, or planets. However, due to limited resources, they cannot investigate every single report. They encourage observers to use their guide for identifying celestial phenomena. In cases with detailed reports, like Bernt Augustini's, SUFOI engages in further correspondence. They point to previous reports and photos of small Thai hot air balloons, suggesting they are increasingly popular and often mistaken for UFOs.

Constructive Reaction and Experiments

Bernt Augustini, the observer from Bogense, responded constructively to SUFOI's suggestions, acknowledging the possibility of small balloons but questioning their brightness and constant light. He planned to conduct his own experiment by launching balloons from Ringe to compare their effects. He noted that some balloons have a flight duration of up to 12 minutes and a flight altitude of 500 meters. His experiment involved launching three hot air balloons from Ringe on June 8, 2008, around 23:00. He provided photos and film, stating that while many might report balloons as UFOs, his experience in Bogense was different due to the significantly brighter, constant light and different flight path.

Another report from Aarslev on Fyn described four white-yellow lights observed for 15-20 minutes. Bernt Augustini commented that this sighting was geographically close to Ringe and the timing was similar, suggesting it might be related to his experiment.

Further Observations and Context

The article mentions that there have been many other observations of hot air balloons during the spring and summer that were not included in this review. German colleagues report up to 40 daily observations of small hot air balloons at certain times. Some areas in Germany have banned balloon launches due to fire risks, especially when fireworks are attached. The authors address the perception that SUFOI might be biased towards explaining all sightings as balloons, clarifying that they simply follow the facts. They also highlight that these balloon observations are interesting in themselves, offering insights into human perception. A website, www.himmellys.dk, is mentioned as a source for balloons and related videos.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout the issue is the investigation of luminous aerial phenomena, with a strong emphasis on identifying hot air balloons as a common explanation for many reported sightings. SUFOI's editorial stance appears to be one of cautious investigation, seeking natural explanations first, while acknowledging the public's fascination with UFOs. They aim to provide factual analysis based on available evidence, even if it means demystifying some sightings. The release of government archives is presented as a valuable resource for historical research into the UFO phenomenon.

Title: UFO-Nyt
Issue: 4, 2008
Publisher: SUFOI
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of UFO-Nyt, published by SUFOI, focuses on photographic analysis and astronomical news. It includes a personal account of a UFO sighting, investigations into reader-submitted photos, and recognition of prominent figures in astronomy.

Personal UAP Sighting Report

The issue begins with a detailed account from 1984 by a witness who, with his then-girlfriend, observed an unidentified object near the Rigshospitalets Kollegium on Jagtvej in Copenhagen. They described the object as being shaped like a fluorescent tube, approximately 2-3 meters long with a 1-meter diameter, possessing a bright core and dimmer edges. The object moved silently and at a low altitude, about two stories high, initially heading directly towards the college building before changing course to follow the facade upwards. Upon reaching the roof, it accelerated away at an immense speed, described as similar to a shooting star. The witness emphasizes that both he and his girlfriend, a doctor, were sober and had no prior belief in the supernatural, and they both saw the exact same phenomenon. The experience left a profound impression on them.

Photo Analysis: Rainbow and UFOs

Under the headline "Nyt fra fotoafdelingen" (News from the photo department), Ole Henningsen presents two cases analyzed by SUFOI's photo consultants. The first case involves Leo Cameo, who photographed a rainbow in Svaneke on June 23, 2008, and later discovered two bright objects in one of the pictures. Initially, these objects were not visible to the naked eye. SUFOI's photo consultants, Hans Bødker and Klaus Silberbauer Andersen, concluded that these were not UFOs but rather raindrops close to the camera lens, illuminated by the camera's flash. They noted that the camera's flash was automatically triggered, supporting their conclusion. Leo Cameo expressed his satisfaction with the thorough investigation and the logical explanation.

The second case involves a photograph taken by a user near Skive on June 20, 2008. The photographer noticed a bright spot between clouds as the sun dipped behind one. This spot was captured by a mobile phone camera. SUFOI's photo consultants determined that this was a solar reflection or lens flare from the mobile phone's objective, caused by the strong sunlight. They provided comparative photos and detailed explanations of how such reflections occur, especially with modern CCD cameras and zoom lenses, and how they can be asymmetrical or appear off-axis.

Tycho Brahe Medal Awarded

Another section highlights the awarding of the Tycho Brahe Medal to space experts Helle and Henrik Stub. The medal was presented at the Tycho Brahe Planetarium on April 24th. Helle and Henrik Stub are recognized for their extensive work in educating the public about astronomy and space exploration through articles, books, and lectures. Their recent book, "Rejsen ud i rummet - de første 50 år" (The journey into space - the first 50 years), published in 2007, is also mentioned.

The article also lists previous recipients of the Tycho Brahe Medal, dating back to 1989, including astrophysicists, scientific societies, educators, and journalists, underscoring the medal's prestige in recognizing contributions to astronomy.

Book Review: "Stora boken om NATURFENOMEN"

Ole Henningsen reviews the Swedish book "Stora boken om NATURFENOMEN" by Clas Svahn, a known UFO colleague and chairman of UFO-Sverige. The book is praised for its engaging presentation of diverse natural phenomena, such as ice circles, ball lightning, and will-o'-the-wisps. Svahn, a journalist and author, is noted for his detailed research, including personal interviews and photographic documentation of unusual natural events. The review specifically mentions an ice circle that formed in the Piteälven river in 1986/87, measuring nearly 50 meters in diameter and rotating at eight times per minute, with an estimated weight of 850 tons.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO-Nyt demonstrates a consistent editorial stance focused on investigating and explaining anomalous phenomena, particularly UFO/UAP sightings and photographic evidence. The magazine prioritizes rational explanations, often involving scientific analysis and expert consultation, as seen in the photo analysis sections. While acknowledging the possibility of unexplained phenomena, the publication leans towards debunking or providing logical explanations for reported sightings. The coverage of astronomical achievements and natural phenomena suggests a broader interest in the unexplained and the wonders of science, aligning with the organization's mission to explore and inform about UFOs and related topics.

Title: UFO-mail
Date: 2008 (implied by book publication date)
Publisher: SUFOI
Character: This issue of UFO-mail focuses on book reviews related to natural phenomena, with a particular emphasis on unusual occurrences that might be mistaken for or related to UFO sightings. It also includes a call to action for readers to share the newsletter.

Book Review: Stora boken om Naturfenomen by Clas Svahn

The issue begins with a detailed review of Clas Svahn's book, "Stora boken om Naturfenomen" (The Big Book of Natural Phenomena). The reviewer highlights how the book starts by discussing unique ice and snow phenomena, such as large, round, rotating ice floes found in frozen rivers. The author himself reportedly experienced a 'carousel ride' on one of these floes. The book delves into how these phenomena, along with others like gas emissions from lake bottoms creating the appearance of holes in the ice, are explained scientifically. It is noted that meteorites or other celestial objects have never been found in connection with these ice holes.

The book's approach is characterized by its thorough documentation, with explanations of phenomena consistently supported by references to sources, often based on the author's personal interviews with observers and researchers. A particularly interesting chapter for UFO enthusiasts discusses lightning and electrical discharges in the atmosphere, including the phenomenon of ball lightning, for which the book allegedly shows several purported images.

Other topics covered in Svahn's book include migrating stones in deserts, floating islands, large flying turf islands, unusual waterspouts, giant hailstones, natural snowballs, and atmospheric mirages. The book, spanning 192 pages, covers a wide range of subjects.

A photograph accompanying the review, taken by Carl-Anton Mattsson, shows what is described as a 'landed spacecraft?' on the vast salt flat of Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia. This salt flat, measuring 100 km by nearly as long, is also mentioned as a potential emergency landing site for the American space shuttle. The review clarifies that the 'landed vessel' is actually an island in the lake, a visual illusion caused by mirages that disappears as one gets closer.

The author places significant emphasis on eyewitness accounts of natural phenomena created by natural forces, which may appear incredible at first glance. The reviewer notes that the book's credibility is enhanced by the fact that not all phenomena are given an explanation.

Nearly every page of the book is said to contain a drawing or photograph to support or illustrate the text. The reviewer acknowledges that the book is "very Swedish" and covers many natural phenomena not easily experienced in Denmark, such as dramatic rivers or mountains. However, the reviewer suggests that the book's unusual content deserves to be published in other languages, including Danish, in a revised edition. The reviewer's initial reaction of enthusiasm remains strong.

Book Review: Lichtspiele in der Luft

SUFOI also recommends "Lichtspiele in der Luft: Atmosphärische Optik für Einsteiger" (Light Plays in the Air: Atmospheric Optics for Beginners). This is described as a German, academic publication aimed at beginners, covering natural light phenomena. The review provides a link to its website (www.astro.ku.dk/lys/) for information on phenomena like rainbows, the northern lights, halos, and sunsets. It also mentions that the book has been reviewed on www.pro-physik.de and can be ordered from Amazon.de.

Call to Action: Share UFO-mail

The issue concludes with a request for readers to forward the "ufo-mail" to their family, friends, and acquaintances. This is to allow others to receive the free and non-binding UFO-mail, which contains updates on Danish and international UFO observations, photographs, atmospheric phenomena, and special offers on UFO-related materials.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme in this issue is the exploration of unusual natural phenomena and how they are documented and explained, often drawing parallels to unexplained aerial phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of curiosity and a desire to provide well-researched information, acknowledging both scientific explanations and the value of eyewitness accounts. There is an openness to phenomena that might seem extraordinary, and a promotion of sharing information within the UFO community. The recommendation of books suggests an interest in educating readers about both terrestrial and potentially extraterrestrial mysteries.