UFO Mail - No 114 - 2010

Magazine Overview

Title: Skandinavisk UFO Information
Issue: UFO-Mail nr. 114
Date: 7. Januar 2010
Publisher: Danmarks UFO Forening

This issue of Skandinavisk UFO Information focuses on a DR2 television program titled 'DR2 Tema: UFOerne vender tilbage - UFOer over Danmark,' which was broadcast on January 9, 2010. The magazine provides details about the program's content, participants, and the context surrounding UFO investigations.

DR2 Tema: UFOerne vender tilbage - UFOer over Danmark

The main feature of this issue is the upcoming DR2 broadcast on January 9, 2010, at 20:00. This themed evening revisits three programs about UFOs that were first aired on November 29, 2008. The program includes contributions from Nick Pope, who worked at the British Ministry of Defence's 'ufo-desk' from 1991 to 1994. The article notes that the British Ministry of Defence has recently closed this 'ufo-desk' and officially ceased its investigations into UFO reports.

Nick Pope is presented as a key figure, seen as number 2 from the right in a photograph from SUFOI's 50th-anniversary conference. Per Andersen, who was responsible for the organization of that event, is also mentioned. Ole Retsbo, the director of DR2 Tema, is credited with the program's direction and was present at the conference to film material that would be used in a 'Temalørdag' (Themed Saturday) program about UFOs.

Other SUFOI members participating in the DR2 program include Ole Henningsen, Toke Haunstrup, and Kim Møller Hansen.

Program Details for the Themed Evening

The issue outlines the program schedule for the DR2 themed evening:

• 20:01 En verden af UFOer (A World of UFOs): This segment covers the history of UFOs, sensational eyewitness accounts, military UFO offices (likened to 'The X-Files'), and a vast network of UFO investigators. It mentions the first UFO sighting on June 24, 1947, and the US Air Force's 'UFO office,' as well as UFOs being discussed at the UN General Assembly.
• 20:40 UFOer, løgne og den kolde krig (UFOs, Lies, and the Cold War): This German documentary explores how the US military and CIA took UFOs seriously during the Cold War, questioning whether they were secret Soviet weapons or extraterrestrial threats. It delves into the truth and lies within classified UFO reports.
• 21:30 UFOer over Danmark (UFOs over Denmark): This segment focuses on Danish UFO cases, including the UFO crash at Amager Fælled, Danish jet fighters on UFO hunts, and the mysterious 'Sølvhatten' (Silver Hat) report from Falster. It references newspaper reports from 1946 about 'ghost rockets' and highlights the work of UFO detectives from SUFOI over the past 50 years.

Notable Danish contributors mentioned include Ole Henningsen, a retired bank manager from Lolland-Falster, and Ole J. Knudsen, a planetarium director and head of the alarm center at SUFOI, who has investigated hundreds of UFO mysteries.

The Spiral Phenomenon

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a spectacular light phenomenon observed in Northern Scandinavia on December 9, 2009. Initially, many observers were mystified, with some speculating about UFOs. However, investigations by SUFOI and other organizations pointed towards a missile launch. The phenomenon was later confirmed by the Russian Ministry of Defence as a failed test launch of a missile from a submarine.

The article explains that the spiral shape was not unusual for failed rocket launches. It details how particles emitted from the rotating rocket in the upper atmosphere created this visual effect. The magazine provides links to various photos and videos of the phenomenon from Norway and Sweden, as well as information from the Andøya Rocket Range (ARR) in Norway and NASA.

It is noted that the Russian military initially denied knowledge of the launch, but later confirmed it. The article also mentions that the missile's guidance system failed, leading to the uncontrolled release of fuel and the resulting spiral formation. The issue includes a quote from Clas Svahn (UFO-Sverige) describing the sighting of the light rising from the horizon and beginning to rotate.

Criticism of DR2's UFO Coverage

The magazine addresses a complaint filed with DR regarding the presentation of UFOs during the November 29, 2008, themed evening. The complaint alleged that the program lacked objectivity and was unscientific. DR rejected the complaint, stating that the program featured a balanced mix of Danish and international contributions and perspectives. SUFOI, in its commentary, supports the program's director, Ole Retsbo, for his serious and balanced approach to the controversial topic, while lamenting that some circles prefer sensational claims over factual assessments.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a serious and critical approach to UFO research, emphasizing the collection and analysis of evidence. It highlights the work of Danish UFO organizations like SUFOI and UFO-Sverige. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into UFO phenomena, while also being critical of sensationalism and misinformation. The coverage of the DR2 program and the detailed analysis of the Scandinavian spiral phenomenon underscore the magazine's commitment to exploring UFO-related events and their explanations, whether mundane or extraordinary.

Title: UFO-Nyt
Issue: 1/2010 (Volume 38)
Publisher: SUFOI
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
Date: January 2010

This issue of UFO-Nyt delves into various aerial phenomena and UFO-related investigations, with a central focus on a widely publicized light event over Norway.

The Norwegian Light Phenomenon: A Russian Rocket Launch

The issue begins by addressing the spectacular light phenomenon observed over Norway on December 9, 2009. Initially, the event generated significant public interest and speculation, with many believing it to be an extraterrestrial encounter. Russian authorities, however, confirmed it as a failed rocket launch. Russian defense analyst Pavel Felgenhauer is quoted stating that such formations are seen when rocket attempts fail in the upper atmosphere, humorously noting that Norwegians at least got to see a fireworks display.

The images and video recordings of this event, captured across northern Norway and Sweden, quickly spread globally via news outlets like DR's TV-Avis and Radioavisen. The internet, particularly YouTube, became a platform for numerous amateur videos, often accompanied by 'spherical' music, linking the phenomenon to UFO concepts. Notably, official bets were placed on the origin of the light, with a Russian rocket launch paying double, while UFOs offered odds of 100 to 1.

Spiritual Interpretations vs. Official Explanations

Different organizations offered their interpretations. Selvet - Danmarks Spirituelle Webmagasin sent out a greeting suggesting that 2010 might be the year humanity welcomes 'brothers and sisters from surrounding planets,' questioning if humanity is ready for peaceful coexistence and if the 'power elite' is deliberately keeping humanity ignorant of other races. Conversely, the Russian military later confirmed it was a rocket launch failure, while 'spiritual sources' maintained it was a 'light greeting' from other planets.

The "Star" and Share International Foundation

Another section discusses the "star" phenomenon reported by Share International Foundation, an organization with roots in theosophy. They claimed a large, glowing spiral seen over Norway on December 9, 2009, was a sign of Maitreya's imminent arrival. They further posited that this "star" was one of four "enormous spaceships" placed around Earth, with numerous photos and videos appearing on YouTube and TV news programs. Share International Magazine reported receiving hundreds of photographs of the "star" in various colors and forms, interpreting the Norwegian spiral as an extension of these spacecraft's work.

Scientific and Skeptical Perspectives

Skeptics suggest that such phenomena might be explained by natural occurrences like wormholes, or simply by misinterpreting astronomical objects. The article cautions against unfounded speculation, urging people to familiarize themselves with basic facts. It also notes that some websites linked the light phenomenon to President Obama's Nobel Peace Prize reception, despite it being held in Oslo.

UFO-Norge's Investigation: The Russian Rocket Connection

SUFOI's partner organization, UFO-Norge, investigated the case. Ole Jonny Brænne from UFO-Norge clarified that the impressive photos of the "light spiral" were taken with a tripod and long exposure, enhancing their appearance. He confirmed that the phenomenon was indeed an ICBM launch from the Russian submarine Dmitry Donskoi, specifically a test of the RSM-56 Bulava weapon system. Brænne also mentioned that similar test launches had occurred previously, such as on November 1, 2009, and that these launches were announced in advance and confirmed by Russia.

Historical Context and Misidentification

UFO researchers in Norway and Sweden have been familiar with such phenomena since the mid-1970s, with rocket launches occurring from secret sites like Plesetsk. The article highlights that the spiral effect is likely caused by the final stage of a rocket either going out of control or engaging a gyro-stabilizing mechanism, a technique used by the Russian space program. It also points out that some individuals misinterpret planets like Venus and Jupiter as UFOs, failing to check their actual positions in the sky.

Other Sightings and Photo Analysis

A Mysterious Sight from the Air

A passenger on a flight between Greenland and Norway photographed an unusual object on November 20, 2009. The German UFO organization CENAP received the inquiry, and Roland Gehardt from CENAP identified the images as similar to those of Russian rocket launches. Jonathan McDowell, a specialist in rocket launch overviews, confirmed it was the launch of Kosmos-2455 with a Soyuz-U rocket from Plesetsk, Russia.

Progress M-03M Supply Ship Launch

An example of sky phenomena is shown in connection with the launch of a Russian Progress M-03M supply ship to the ISS from Baikonur on October 15, 2009. Photos of this event are available online.

Closure of the British UFO Desk

The issue reports on the quiet closure of the British Ministry of Defence's 'UFO Desk' after 50 years. The ministry stated that no UFO report had shown any signs of a potential threat to Great Britain, and that investigating such reports was an inefficient use of resources. The closure was announced discreetly via a Freedom of Information Act document. The news became public through British UFO researcher Dr. David Clarke's blog.

SUFOI's Photo Department Activities

SUFOI's Photo Department has seen a rise in photo and video submissions of unusual aerial phenomena. In 2009, 43 cases were registered, an increase from previous years. This rise is attributed to the increased availability of digital cameras and smartphones. A significant factor is also the increasing popularity of small hot-air balloons, which account for half of the registered photo cases. The department also deals with insufficient data in some submissions and cases that remain unidentified after investigation, such as a small light spot photographed on Bornholm.

Explaining Common Misidentifications

The article clarifies that many photographed phenomena are astronomical objects like Venus and Jupiter, or simply light effects from aircraft. It also addresses "orbs" in photos, explaining them as small particles near the camera lens illuminated by the flash, rather than paranormal entities. The department categorizes photos with insufficient data as "insufficient data" and those that remain unidentified after thorough investigation as "non-identified photos."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO-Nyt demonstrates a clear editorial stance favoring rational explanations for aerial phenomena, often debunking UFO claims by identifying them as known events like rocket launches, atmospheric effects, or misinterpretations of natural objects. While acknowledging the public's fascination with UFOs, the magazine emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation and evidence-based conclusions. The closure of the British UFO Desk is presented as a logical step based on the lack of significant findings over decades. The recurring theme is the critical examination of UFO reports, distinguishing between genuine mysteries and misidentified conventional events.

This issue of SUFOI focuses on the photographic analysis of alleged UFO and UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) sightings, presenting several case studies and expert opinions.

Case Study 1: Danish Sighting (August 23, 2009) The issue begins with a personal account of a photograph taken on August 23, 2009, due to its beautiful clouds. The photographer later discovered a small, dark spot in the image, which they initially considered a potential UFO. However, the low resolution of the image made definitive identification difficult. The photographer speculated it could be a dust particle on the lens or a bird, but ruled out an airplane. The analysis suggests that the object is very small and its nature is uncertain.

Explanation of 'Orbs' The magazine then delves into the phenomenon of 'orbs,' which are often observed as characteristic bright, round markings in photographs, particularly those taken at night or with a flash. These are explained as being caused by small particles in the air very close to the camera's lens, illuminated by the flash. These particles can be dust, smoke, or small water droplets. The article notes that 'orbs' are frequently discussed on international websites in connection with paranormal investigations, but their cause is presented as a simple, verifiable photographic artifact. Demonstrational photos are included to illustrate how shaking a dusty cloth in front of the lens can produce numerous 'orbs' of varying sizes.

Case Study 2: Malaga, Spain (July 2, 2008) This section details a case from Malaga, Spain, where a photographer submitted images taken during twilight. Upon closer examination, large, luminous spheres were observed moving diagonally upwards. The photographer heard no sounds and noted no local events that could explain the phenomenon. The images were sent to SUFOI for analysis. The analysis suggests these are 'orbs' caused by small particles near the camera lens, similar to the general explanation provided earlier. The article mentions that such phenomena are common in digital photography due to the wide depth of field.

Case Study 3: Lanzarote, Spain (March 4, 2009) A photographer on a bus tour in a volcanic area on Lanzarote captured an image of a peculiar flying object above a crater. The photographer checked the bus window for smudges but found none. The object appeared to be moving from right to left, or geographically from north to south. SUFOI's analysis, supported by comparative photos, concluded that this 'peculiar flying thing' was a water droplet on the bus's window. The droplet acted like a lens, inverting and reflecting parts of the surroundings, including the sky and the volcano.

Case Study 4: Fårevejle, Denmark (August 22, 2009) This case involves eight photographs taken on August 22, 2009, of a flying object observed by a couple from their terrace near Sejrøbugten, Fårevejle. The object moved from west to east at what was described as 'helicopter height.' No noise was associated with the object. Initially, they considered it might be a hot air balloon, but the complete stillness of the air made this unlikely. The photos were taken after a few minutes of observation, with the camera being a Nikon D200 with an 18-200mm lens. Some initial photos were shaky due to low ISO settings, while later ones used higher ISO and full telephoto.

Comparative Analysis and Conclusion The issue includes comparative photos, such as one taken by Hansjürgen Köhler from the German organization CENAP, showing a flying insect. This is used to illustrate how small insects can appear in photographs. The analysis of the Fårevejle photos suggests that the object's appearance is consistent with an insect or similar small airborne particle. The article emphasizes that many apparent UFO sightings, when subjected to rigorous photographic analysis, are found to be misidentifications of common phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance The recurring theme throughout this issue is the critical examination of photographic evidence related to UFOs. SUFOI's stance appears to be one of scientific skepticism, aiming to provide rational explanations for anomalous sightings. The magazine highlights the importance of understanding photographic artifacts, such as lens flares, dust particles, and water droplets, which can be easily mistaken for unexplained phenomena. The editorial approach is to educate the public and photographers on how to interpret their images, often concluding that the most plausible explanation involves known natural or technical causes rather than extraterrestrial or paranormal activity.

Title: UFO-mail
Issue: 11 (2009)
Publisher: SUFOI
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of UFO-mail from 2009 delves into various unexplained aerial phenomena reported by observers across Denmark. The primary focus is on a case from Anholt, dated September 19, 2009, which involved photographic evidence of a peculiar green object in the sky. Alongside this, the magazine presents a collection of other recent and historical sighting reports, offering analyses and potential explanations from SUFOI (The Danish UFO Research Society).

Anholt Case: September 19, 2009

The issue highlights a photographic case from Anholt, where a photographer captured images of an object that initially sparked curiosity. After reviewing the observation report, original photographs, and meteorological data, SUFOI concluded that the object was a small hot air balloon launched from the local area. The photographer, after reading SUFOI's detailed report, agreed with this assessment, expressing gratitude for the comprehensive analysis.

The Anholt case was chosen for the "ufo-mail" due to the relatively clear night sky, making it easier to identify the photographed object. The report notes that many other photo and video cases from 2009 involved hot air balloons, often appearing as shaky, small, reddish lights against a dark sky. The Anholt case, however, was considered the most spectacular received by SUFOI's Photo Department in 2009 due to its clarity.

Reflection Phenomena and Photographic Analysis

Subsequent pages detail the investigation into the Anholt photos. The photographer, Søren Fosberg, initially consulted DMI (Danish Meteorological Institute), whose senior climatologist, John Cappelen, suggested it might be a reflection phenomenon within the camera lens. Fosberg was then referred to the Tycho Brahe Planetarium and SUFOI. Fosberg's account describes the object as a seemingly well-defined body among the clouds, which he only noticed when reviewing the photos at home. He noted that other photos taken at the same time did not show the object, suggesting it might have been obscured by clouds.

Further analysis, including the use of filters and contrast enhancement, is presented. The issue explains traditional reflection phenomena, often seen when the sun or another strong light source is in the frame. These reflections typically appear as an inverted image of the light source. The Anholt object's green hue and its apparent position behind clouds were initially puzzling, as reflections are usually not observed behind clouds. However, SUFOI's extensive experiments and a 34-page report concluded that the green marking was indeed a reflection caused by the sharp sun. The report emphasizes that the phenomenon was not directly observed in the sky, which would have attracted significant attention if it were a large, self-luminous object. The green marking was interpreted as an inverted reflection of the sun, so faint that it appeared to be behind the clouds.

Other Reported Sightings

The magazine also features a compilation of numerous other reports from various locations and dates:

• Polderrev Camping, Grenaa (Summer 1993): A report of a large, silent, glowing object with dark windows, described as a classic UFO, observed for several minutes before disappearing.
• Nykøbing F (August 1-5, 1999): An observation of a chrome-like object, resembling a coin or bowler hat, hovering silently for 10-15 minutes.
• København N (1999-2001): A brief sighting of a UFO by a child, which appeared and disappeared quickly.
• Gamtofte, Assens (September 19, 2009): A photographer noticed strange red and green lights on a photo, later identified as a reflection phenomenon.
• Odder (October 5, 2009): Two observations: a luminous sphere moving slowly and an orange object hovering and then moving east.
• Ilskov (October 13, 2009): A meteor with a bright white core and a long, reddish tail, described as more flame-like than a typical shooting star.
• Rødekro (October 13, 2009): Three luminous objects observed rotating and intensifying before disappearing, leaving a smoke trail.
• Frederikshavn (October 14, 2009): An orange light observed hovering and then moving north, with no sound.
• Lyngby (October 14, 2009): A high, elongated star-like object was observed, from which a smaller 'star' emerged and remained stationary.
• Aalbæk (October 17, 2009): Four yellowish-orange lights forming a rectangle, moving south.
• Holsted (October 17, 2009): Three objects moving in a straight line, faster than a satellite.
• Randers SØ (October 29, 2009): A bright light sphere observed, followed by two more, with no sound detected, suggesting high altitude.
• Slagelse (November 14, 2009): Several orange lights observed moving across the sky, with no sound.
• Malling (November 17, 2009): A semi-circular sphere with a red beam was photographed.
• København NV (November 19, 2009): A fire-like sphere observed moving at airplane speed without sound.
• Mønsted, Viborg (November 20, 2009): A clear meteor with atmospheric passage, breaking into pieces.
• Ørnhøj (December 11, 2009): A large 'star' observed changing shape from round to cone or cigar-like, with a faint light.
• Horsens (December 14, 2009): An object moving much faster than the ISS satellite, described as point-like with a possible faint condensation trail.

SUFOI's Role and Methodology

SUFOI plays a crucial role in investigating these reports, often providing detailed analyses and explanations. Their approach involves examining photographic and video evidence, considering meteorological conditions, and consulting with experts. The magazine highlights SUFOI's website (www.ufo.dk) as a resource for further information and for submitting reports. The editorial stance generally leans towards finding rational explanations, often attributing sightings to known phenomena like hot air balloons, reflections, or atmospheric events, while acknowledging the mysterious nature of some observations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the analysis of photographic evidence, the identification of common aerial objects (like hot air balloons), and the distinction between genuine anomalies and natural phenomena or optical illusions. SUFOI's editorial stance is one of thorough investigation and evidence-based conclusions, aiming to demystify UFO reports by providing rational explanations where possible. The magazine encourages public reporting and contributes to a growing database of aerial phenomena observations in Denmark.

Title: UFO-Mail
Issue: 101
Volume: 10
Date: December 2009 - January 2010
Publisher: SUFOI
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of UFO-Mail is dedicated to eyewitness accounts of unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP) reported by Danish observers during the late December 2009 and early January 2010 period. The magazine compiles numerous reports, detailing sightings, object characteristics, and observer reactions.

Eyewitness Reports

Horsens Sightings (December 14, 2009)

Two separate reports from Horsens describe similar phenomena observed on the same night. The first observer noted a powerful orange light, described as twice as bright as the ISS, moving rapidly in a straight line from west-northwest to east-southeast, passing through the constellation Orion. The object was described as having a fixed, slightly elongated shape and a constant brightness, with a speed estimated to be four times that of the ISS. The observer doubted it was a satellite due to its constant illumination and high speed.

The second report from Horsens, from a different observer, also describes an object moving significantly faster than the ISS, estimated at 3-4 times its speed. The color was orange-red to whitish, with constant intensity. The object was observed from overhead to the horizon in approximately 20 seconds. The observer's brother confirmed seeing the object and its high speed. Both observers used "Orbitron" to search for satellites without success and concluded that the object was unlikely to be a satellite due to its low altitude and constant, self-generated light.

Other Danish Sightings

Aabybro (December 15, 2009): A brief report mentions a "giant flash of light" resembling an oversized shooting star.

Herning (December 19, 2009): An observer reported seeing three luminous objects forming a triangle, moving at different speeds. The observer expressed surprise at the sight.

Næstved (December 24, 2009): During a drive home on Christmas Eve, an observer saw a "flying thingest" near Ringstedgade. It was described as large, elliptical, with a strong golden light in the center and blinking edges. It moved slowly and at a low altitude, disappearing quickly.

Dronningmølle (December 25, 2009): An object was observed moving towards the north coast, stopping for a few minutes to shine brightly without sound, before disappearing to the northeast.

Nivå (December 25, 2009): Two individuals walking a dog observed a phenomenon that filled several kilometers of the sky. It was described as having a shape like a coffee filter with diffuse contours, and the light pulsed approximately 150-200 times per minute. The light faded out after 1-2 minutes. The observers could not identify it as any known phenomenon and noted that aircraft noise was not associated with it.

Jyderup (December 31, 2009): An observer saw a brightly shining yellow object with a tail. It flew at a constant altitude for about five minutes and was observed from the southwest. The observer, who was sober, felt the observation was peculiar enough to report.

Virum (December 31, 2009): A clear orange light, larger than a star with flickering orange-yellow light, was seen moving across the sky. The time taken for it to move across the visible sky was approximately 2 minutes.

Bjerringbro (January 1, 2010): On New Year's night, an observer saw a light-orange spot, significantly larger than a bright star, moving steadily west before turning south and disappearing. The object was estimated to be at a height of 2,000-3,000 meters and traveling at 200-400 km/h.

Brøndby (January 1, 2010): Three separate reports from Brøndby describe New Year's night sightings. One report details three orange objects, two stationary and one moving, with a fourth appearing later. They were observed at an altitude of 5-6 km and slowly faded. Another report describes 6-8 yellowish dots appearing at intervals, ascending and disappearing at a high altitude, noted as being higher than normal aircraft. A third report from Brøndby describes three luminous objects that later merged and moved, with one disappearing and a fourth appearing. The duration of this sighting was approximately 7 minutes.

SUFOI Commentary

The SUFOI (Special-Oplysnings-Foreningen I Danmark) provides commentary on some of the reports. For the Brøndby sightings, SUFOI suggests that the descriptions might correspond to observations of small hot air balloons. They encourage readers to check satellite passage times using websites like "www.heavens-above.com" to help identify potential satellite sightings. They also mention the possibility of observing bright flashes from iridium satellites.

Editorial Notes

The editorial section includes a New Year's greeting to the readers from the editors of UFO-Mail. It also features a call to action, encouraging readers to send in their own UFO-related observations, photos, and information to the magazine. The issue includes a photograph of fireworks, likely related to the New Year's Eve context of some reports.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme in this issue is the reporting of unexplained aerial phenomena, primarily characterized by lights and rapid movement, observed across Denmark. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to submit their sightings and providing resources for identifying known objects like satellites. The SUFOI commentary introduces a skeptical but helpful perspective, suggesting possible conventional explanations for some sightings while acknowledging the possibility of the unexplained.