UFO-Nytt - 1978 No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO-NYTT
Issue: 1
Volume: 2
Year: 1978
Publisher: KALMAR BLANDS UFO-FÖRENING (UFO-KO)
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of UFO-NYTT presents a comprehensive look at current UFO events and advancements in understanding the phenomenon. The cover features a dramatic illustration of a UFO emerging from turbulent water, with the headline "Kavalkad över aktuella UFO - händelser och ökad kunskap om UFO - fenomen" (A review of current UFO events and increased knowledge about the UFO phenomenon).

Editorial and Organizational Information

The magazine is an informational and membership publication from the KALMAR BLANDS UFO-FÖRENING (UFO-KO). The editor-in-chief and responsible publisher is Leif Andersson, with Bert Petersson serving as the editorial secretary. The organization's address is Box 3001, 381 03 Kalmar, with a telephone number of 0485-371 48 and a postgiro number of 92 64 11-0. The editorial work is done voluntarily, and the magazine emphasizes that the execution and appearance are secondary to the text material. They also state that spelling and grammatical errors will be tolerated.

Contents and Articles

"DU...." (Editorial)

Leif Andersson's editorial looks forward to a successful UFO year in 1978, highlighting the upcoming European premiere of the UFO movie "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" in Stockholm. He also notes an increase in membership fees for the year, which includes the magazine subscription and other member benefits. He encourages members to pay their 1978 fees promptly.

"Nytt i korthet" (News in Brief)

This section includes a short poem titled "UFO-DIKT" by Gunnar Schelin, which humorously touches upon flying saucers and landing in Borgholm. It also features a "DAGENS SIAMUK" (Today's Siamuk) segment about Borgholm being a center for UFO activity.

"Promenad i rymden" (Stroll in Space)

This article reports on Soviet cosmonauts Jurij Romanenko and Georgij Gretiko leaving the Salyut 6 space station to repair its docking mechanism. The attempt to dock with Soyuz 25 had previously failed.

"Saljut 6 bemannad" (Salyut 6 Manned)

This news report details the successful manning of the Salyut 6 space station by Soviet cosmonauts Jurij Romanenko and Georgij Gretiko, following a previous failed attempt with Soyuz 25. It mentions that another cosmonaut crew might be sent up later.

"Mystiskt ljussken sågs över Gullaskruv" (Mysterious Light Seen Over Gullaskruv)

This report recounts an experience by Sven-Ove Nordkvist near Gullaskruv, Sweden, who witnessed a bright light and experienced radio interference. He described a large, moon-like light with three smaller, pulsating lights around it, calling it a frightening experience.

"UFO-spekulationer" (UFO Speculations)

This article explores various theories about UFOs, questioning whether they are purely material or can exist in spiritual or ethereal forms. It discusses the concept of 'mind over matter' and telekinetic forces as potential explanations for UFO movements. The author speculates that UFOs might transition between material and non-material states, explaining their seemingly impossible maneuvers and speeds. It also touches upon the idea that advanced extraterrestrial cultures might possess strong telekinetic abilities.

"Han hittade en ny planet" (He Found a New Planet)

This piece reports on astronomer Charles Kowal's discovery of a new celestial object while observing through a telescope at the Hale Observatory in Pasadena. The object, located between the orbits of Uranus and Saturn, is estimated to be between 160 and 640 kilometers in diameter. Scientists are unsure of its nature, but it is speculated to be the tenth and smallest planet in our solar system, or possibly an asteroid or comet. The object is approximately 2.4 billion kilometers from Earth and has an orbital period of about 70 years.

"Tefatet flyger men var är koppen" (The Saucer Flies, But Where is the Cup?)

This article revisits the famous Kenneth Arnold sighting of June 24, 1947, which popularized the term 'flying saucer.' It discusses how authorities in the USA and other countries attempted to suppress information about UFO sightings. The article notes that a large investigation in the USA revealed that 15 million Americans claimed to have seen UFOs, with 53% believing they exist. It encourages witnesses to report sightings to UFO organizations rather than government authorities, citing a history of distrust.

"Nu har man lärt sig tyda 'radarspöken'" (Now They've Learned to Interpret 'Radar Ghosts')

This article explains that 'radar ghosts,' or unidentified flying objects detected on radar screens, are often atmospheric phenomena or optical illusions, referred to as 'mirages.' It details how atmospheric conditions can focus radio waves, leading to signals being reflected from distant locations. The article also mentions that birds, particularly large flocks of starlings, can reflect radio waves and appear as 'ghosts' on radar. The phenomenon is attributed to atmospheric heterogeneity, including aerosols, gases, and variations in air density, which can scatter radio waves and create various radar images.

"Närkontakt" (Close Encounter)

This section features an image of three flying saucers and discusses the upcoming film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" directed by Steven Spielberg. The article notes the film's significant budget and suggests it will likely adhere to common UFO mythology. It lists the main actors: Richard Dreyfuss, François Truffaut, and Teri Garr.

UFO-KÖ Meeting Minutes (January 12, 1978)

This section details the minutes from the UFO-KÖ (UFO-KO) annual meeting held on January 12, 1978. Key decisions and discussions included:

• Election of Officers: Arne Arvidsson was elected chairman, and Bert Petersson was elected secretary for the meeting.
• Annual Report and Previous Minutes: The annual report and minutes from the previous meeting were read and approved.
• Financial Report: The organization's balance for 1977 was 10.70 SEK after all debts were paid.
• Membership: Gunnar Schelin was thanked for recruiting new members and selling the magazine. The number of paying members in 1977 was approximately 50.
• Lottery: Christina Isacsson was thanked for organizing and selling a lottery.
• Youth Report: A report on youth activities indicated lively engagement, including the publication of a 6-issue member magazine, two camps, and several meetings.
• Honorary Member: Gunnar Schelin was appointed an honorary member in recognition of his contributions.
• Board Election for 1978: The following were elected to the board: Arne Arvidsson (Chairman), Bert Petersson (Secretary), Sture Johansson & Lisbeth Gardelius (Assistant Secretaries), Ulla-Britt Wahlutanås (Auditor), Sture Johansson (Investigator), Magmus Björkman & Stefan Dombrowsky (Youth Leaders), Leif Andersson (Responsible Publisher), and Rune Sjöstrand & Sune Lindrooz (Election Committee). A vice-chairman position was left open to be filled later if needed.
• Statute Changes: Membership is open to individuals aged 12 and over who pay the annual fee and agree to the statutes. The membership fee for 1978 was set and is to be paid to the postgiro number 92 64 11-0. The clause granting 'family membership' one vote was removed.
• Membership Fees for 1978: The following fees were approved: 45 SEK (1st family member with magazine), 20 SEK (2nd family member without magazine), 10 SEK (youth under 18 without magazine), 25 SEK (youth under 18 with magazine), and 35 SEK (UFO-NYTT subscription only).
• Stugan Report: A report on activities at 'Stugan' indicated that nothing had been done since autumn, with plans for spring including tiling and painting.
• 1978 Program: The program for UFO-KO's 1978 activities was reviewed and approved.
• National Meeting: Leif Andersson and Bert Petersson were selected to attend the national organization's meeting in Stockholm on March 18, with an expense allowance of approximately 400 SEK.
• ICOFF Magazine: It was decided to investigate the possibility of exchanging issues with the ICOFF member magazine, "G.I.C.O.F.F. Information."
• School Activities: The chairman will continue to hold "UFO" as a topic for elective school work.

"FORNTIDENS TEKNIK" (Technology of Antiquity)

This section announces that due to high interest and the difficulty of obtaining the book "Forntidens Teknik," a summary will be published starting in UFO-NYTT issue number 2.

"Ryska forskare avslöjar naturläkarnas hemlighet" (Russian Scientists Reveal the Secret of Natural Healers)

This article explores parapsychological research in the Soviet Union, challenging the notion that communist materialism would be opposed to such studies. It highlights research into 'bioinformation,' including telepathy and the ability of natural healers to diagnose illnesses through touch. Physicist Lev Venciaunas is mentioned as investigating 'paranormal' communication for potential use in space travel. The article discusses experiments showing that plants react to human thoughts and that living organisms may possess an 'energy body' or 'bioplasma' that can exist independently of the physical body, as evidenced by Kirlian photography and 'phantom leaves.' The research also touches upon dowsing and the scientific acceptance of this ability in Russia.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO phenomena from various angles, including eyewitness accounts, scientific investigations, and speculative theories. There is a clear interest in the unexplained and a willingness to consider unconventional explanations, such as extraterrestrial origins or non-material existence. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging reader participation and providing a platform for disseminating information within the UFO community in Sweden. The organization, UFO-KO, is actively engaged in promoting UFO awareness through its magazine, meetings, and participation in national events.

This issue of Dagens Nyheter, dated November 4, 1977, presents a diverse collection of articles covering UFO phenomena, ancient Egyptian mysteries, psychoanalysis, and space exploration.

Articles

The 'Pharaoh's Curse' and Radioactivity

The cover story investigates the phenomenon of the 'Pharaoh's curse,' which supposedly led to the deaths of individuals involved in opening Tutankhamun's tomb. The article explores the theory that ancient Egyptians, being highly intelligent, might have known about radioactivity and used it, possibly through uranium-rich materials or radioactive stones, to protect their tombs. It is speculated that Tutankhamun's amulet, now lost, might have been radioactive. The article also touches upon the potential use of advanced bacterial agents and poisons, including hydrocyanic acid, by ancient Egyptians to deter grave robbers. The captain of the Titanic, Smith, is also mentioned in connection with a mysterious Egyptian mummy and its amulet, suggesting a possible link to the curse.

Dream Interpretation: The Art of Understanding Dreams

This section delves into the psychoanalytic theories of Sigmund Freud regarding dreams. It explains that dreams are psychological processes occurring during sleep, primarily during REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep. Freud considered dreams to be the 'royal road to the unconscious,' revealing hidden desires, conflicts, and repressed thoughts through symbolic imagery. The article highlights Freud's book 'The Interpretation of Dreams' as a seminal work and discusses how dream analysis can provide insight into an individual's subconscious. It also mentions the surrealist movement's fascination with dreams and their influence on art and film. Later research by figures like Calvin S Hall and the use of LSD in exploring the subconscious are also briefly noted.

UFOs: Sightings and Skepticism

Several articles address UFO sightings and the debate surrounding them. One piece discusses how films like 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' could lead to an increase in UFO reports, potentially overwhelming serious researchers with trivial claims. Another article features a letter from a reader questioning whether UFOs are 'signs and wonders' mentioned in the Bible. The response argues for objectivity and highlights that UFOs are not a new phenomenon, citing historical accounts. It also criticizes the idea that UFOs are merely 'heat haze' or atmospheric reflections, presenting several eyewitness accounts of unexplained aerial phenomena. Specific sightings include a large, green light observed for eight hours over Ervalla, Sweden, and an object resembling a 1930s 'ghost flyer' seen in Mjölby.

Space Exploration: Costs and Technologies

This section covers various aspects of space exploration. One article details the cost of a 'space shuttle ticket,' explaining that NASA offers space for scientific equipment, with prices varying based on weight and volume, ranging from 50,000 to 100 million kronor. The European Space Agency (ESA) is mentioned for its significant contribution to the space shuttle project. Another piece reports on the successful maiden flight of the unmanned space shuttle prototype, Enterprise, at Edwards Air Force Base. It discusses the future of reusable spacecraft and the potential for reducing conventional space travel costs. The article also touches upon the industrial interest in utilizing microgravity for product development. A separate article introduces the 'Stardrive' project, a NASA initiative to develop spacecraft propelled by solar wind using large, thin sails, inspired by early concepts from Tsiolkovsky.

Other Briefs

• Unknown Form of Life: A theory from the University of Illinois suggests that a third form of life, distinct from 'higher' plants and animals and bacteria, may have existed on Earth during its early stages.
• Enterprise's Emergency Landing: The unmanned space shuttle Enterprise made an emergency landing at Edwards Air Force Base due to technical issues, with Prince Charles among the spectators.
• 'Vet Ni Det?' (Did You Know?): This section includes short news items, such as the formation of 'space water' from proton streams colliding with electrons in Earth's atmosphere, and a report of a man claiming to have been held aboard a UFO.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine exhibits a strong interest in the unexplained, the paranormal, and scientific advancements, particularly in space. There's a clear inclination towards exploring UFO phenomena, ancient mysteries, and psychological theories like dream interpretation. While some articles present skeptical viewpoints or scientific explanations, the overall tone often leans towards presenting intriguing possibilities and eyewitness accounts, encouraging readers to consider phenomena beyond conventional understanding. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry into both the supernatural and cutting-edge science.

This issue, dated January 13, 1978, focuses heavily on Soviet space achievements, particularly the successful docking of two manned spacecraft with the Salyut 6 space station. It also includes a report from the UFO-KO organization and an update on the Pioneer space missions.

Space Exploration

Cosmonauts Return to Earth

The main headline announces the return of cosmonauts Vladimir Dsjanibekov and Oleg Makarov to Earth after a unique experiment involving the docking of two spacecraft to form a space station. TASS described this as a "crucial step on the path to establishing permanent, manned space stations with interchangeable crews." The two cosmonauts had arrived at the Salyut 6 station five days prior in the Soyuz 27 spacecraft. They joined cosmonauts Jurij Romanenko and Georgij Gretjko, who had been aboard Salyut 6 since December 11th. The successful docking of the three-part complex is seen as paving the way for significantly longer and more complex space missions in the future.

Biological Experiments in Space

On Thursday, the four cosmonauts aboard the Salyut 6 station conducted biological experiments to study the effects of microgravity on cell division in microorganisms. The Soviet press lauded the docking as a major victory for Soviet space research, noting that this was the first time two manned spacecraft had simultaneously docked with a space station. Foreign experts in Moscow considered the experiment "very interesting," highlighting its potential for rescue operations and extended crew stays due to the ability to resupply the station.

New Soyuz Launched

On Tuesday, the Soviet Union launched a new manned spacecraft, Soyuz 27, commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Vladimir Janibekov and with flight engineer Oleg Makarov aboard. The mission's objective was to dock with the Salyut 6 space station, where they would join Romanenko and Gretjko for joint research. The Salyut station was launched in September, and an earlier docking attempt in October had failed due to a malfunctioning coupling device. The success of this mission was likely influenced by the report from Gretjko and Romanenko that the coupling device was functioning again.

Docking in Space

The Soviet spacecraft Soyuz 27 successfully docked with the Salyut 6 space station on Wednesday. This marked the first time in space history that three units—two spacecraft and a space station—had been linked together. Four people are now aboard the space station. In related news, nine Soviet Kosmos satellites (numbered 975 to 963) were launched on Tuesday to explore outer space.

Progress Cargo Ship Launched

On Friday, the Soviet Union launched an unmanned cargo spacecraft, Progress 1, which was scheduled to dock with the Salyut 6 space station. Its purpose was to supply the two cosmonauts, Jurij Romanenko and Georgij Gretjko, with fuel, scientific equipment, and other necessities.

Other News

A Rainbow in Winter

The article notes that while rainbows can appear in winter, they are often not as vibrant as in summer. However, a rare exception occurred recently in Glommersträsk, where a remarkably sharp and colorful rainbow was observed, described by an elderly resident as almost frightening.

A Real Box Office Hit

The science fiction film "Star Wars" has become a major box office success, earning more in eight months than "Jaws" did in eighteen months. According to Variety, "Star Wars" grossed $127 million, compared to "Jaws" at $121.3 million. These figures are for the US and Canada only. Other top-grossing films for the studio include "The Godfather," "The Exorcist," "The Sound of Music," "Gone with the Wind," "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest," "Rocky," and "Love Story."

Pioneer Missions

The American space probe Pioneer 10 has passed Jupiter, and its sister probe, Pioneer 11, is nearing the planet. Jupiter is the largest planet in the solar system, with a volume over 1,000 times that of Earth. Scientists speculate about its core and liken it to a dying miniature sun, surrounded by intense radiation belts. Pioneer 10 has traveled over a billion kilometers and maintained contact with Earth. It weighs 270 kg and is about the size of a small car. The most dangerous part of the journey to Jupiter is the asteroid belt, where microparticles traveling at 61,200 km/h can penetrate thick aluminum. Pioneer 11 will use Jupiter's gravity to accelerate to 175,000 km/h, a speed vastly exceeding that of Earth's fastest aircraft. After passing Jupiter, Pioneer 11 will continue to Saturn, expected to arrive in the autumn of 1973.

UFO-KO Annual Report 1977

Organization and Activities

The UFO-KO (UFO-Sweden) annual report for 1977 details the organization's structure and activities. The board for the year consisted of Arne Arvidsson (Chairman), Bert Petersson (Secretary), Gunnar Schelin (Treasurer), Lisbeth Lilja (Vice Chairman), and Ulla-Britt Wahl-Stavås (Auditor). Youth leaders were Magnus Björkman and Stefan Dombrowsky, and investigation leaders were Gunnar Schelin and Sture Johansson. Leif Andersson was the newspaper publisher.

Meetings and Membership

During 1977, seven recorded meetings, one recorded board meeting, and seven unrecorded board meetings were held. Several attempts to conduct observation nights were hampered by poor weather. The membership remained stable at approximately 50 individuals, with annual fees set at 10 SEK for students, 20 SEK for individuals, and 25 SEK for families. The organization's financial balance after settling debts was 10.76 SEK.

Facilities and Support

UFO-KO was granted use of an air surveillance tower belonging to F12, located in Strandtorp Norrallöckleby. The organization also rented a small cabin nearby, which members renovated through many hours of valuable work. The report expresses gratitude to members who contributed materials and other support.

Youth Activities and Outreach

Youth camps were organized under the leadership of Kurt Andersson and Kristina Isacsson, with Leif Andersson and Bert Petersson serving as cooks. All participants survived, despite initial preparations for potential stomach pumping at the hospital. The organization was represented at the national UFO-Sweden planning conference in Malmö and participated in a course in Köping for investigators.

Fundraising and Media

A lottery was held to support the youth activities. A planning conference was scheduled for October 14, 1978, in Kalmar. An application for radio frequencies was submitted and approved. The newspaper "Barometern" published a notable report titled "Barret," for which the organization expressed thanks. Arne Arvidsson conducted five weekly lessons on UFOs per week in three Kalmar schools, with 31 students participating. The organization's magazine, "UFOnytt," was published six times, edited by Leif Andersson and Bert Petersson, with illustrations by Jörgen Danielsson.

Reports and Gratitude

Several reports on UFO phenomena were received by the organization's investigators. The board concluded by thanking everyone who contributed to the organization's operations and expressed gratitude for the trust shown. The outgoing board offered their resignations.

Events

UFO-Sweden National Meeting

A public event, the UFO-Sweden national meeting, was scheduled for Saturday, March 18, 1978, at Stockholm's Folkets Hus. The event was to start at 14:00 and conclude at 20:00, with a one-hour break. Speakers included Thorvald Berthelsen, Carl-Axel Jonzon, actor Per Ragnar, and representatives from the defense sector. A 45-minute UFO-Sweden film was to be shown. The meeting would conclude with a popular Q&A and debate panel featuring experts such as Sture Wickerts from FOA. Tickets were available for pre-purchase at 20 SEK via postgiro 74 51 90 - 9, Köping UFO-förening. Tickets would be sent by mail upon request.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine strongly emphasizes Soviet space achievements and technological advancements, presenting them as significant milestones. There is a clear focus on the scientific and exploratory aspects of space missions. Simultaneously, the inclusion of the UFO-KO report and the visual display of various unidentified flying object descriptions indicate an interest in the UFO phenomenon, though presented separately from the space news. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on both established scientific endeavors and unexplained phenomena, with a particular pride in Soviet accomplishments in space.