UFO-Nytt - 1981 No 1

Magazine Overview

This issue of Västerbergslagens UFO NYTT from 1981, published by the Västerbergslagens UFO-förening, is a Swedish-language magazine dedicated to UFO phenomena and related topics. It is issued four times a year and costs 30 kronor for membership.

From the Editors

The editorial section, "FRÅN REDAKTIONEN," notes the arrival of a new year and a quieter period for UFO reports compared to the previous autumn. The first issue of the year contains a mix of small items and continues the discussion on the "Torontofallet." The editors mention that the next issue will include translations from UFO-REPORT and international material due to a lack of local reports. They also highlight the success of recent meetings featuring films and express hope for a good turnout at the upcoming meeting on May 15th.

Space Exploration: Voyager and Saturn

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to space exploration, focusing on the Voyager probes. An article titled "1989 har vi sett allt" (In 1989 we have seen everything) discusses the long journey of the Voyager probes, with Voyager 1 having traveled for over three years at an average speed of 180,000 kilometers per hour. An accompanying image shows the trajectory of Voyager from Earth, via Jupiter (passed in 1979), to Saturn.

Another article, "Venus för het" (Venus too hot), details Soviet and American efforts to explore Venus, including the challenges posed by its extreme temperature and dense atmosphere. It mentions the Soviet Venera probes and the American Mariner 10 and other probes that sent back data and images.

The article "USA längst bort" (USA furthest away) contrasts Soviet and American space exploration efforts, noting that while Soviet probes focused on Mars, American probes like Pioneer 10 and 11, and the more advanced Voyager 1 and 2, have ventured much further into the solar system, reaching Jupiter and Saturn. It highlights the immense scale of the solar system and the vast distances involved, noting that it would take 40,000 years for a probe to reach another star system.

A detailed report on Saturn, "Vi har fått veta mer dm Saturnus" (We have learned more about Saturn), discusses the findings from Voyager 1's flyby. It reveals that Saturn is composed primarily of hydrogen and helium, with a density less than water, meaning it would float. New red spots, smaller than Jupiter's, have been observed in its atmosphere. The number of Saturn's moons is now estimated at sixteen, up from ten. The moon Titan is described as having a thick, orange, cloudy atmosphere, but its surface temperature is too cold for life processes, with potential oceans of liquid nitrogen. The magazine also delves into Saturn's famous rings, noting that what were once thought to be six rings are now understood to be at least 90, possibly up to 500 or even a thousand separate rings. The composition of these rings is complex, ranging from dust-like particles to larger blocks, possibly formed from collisions. The article mentions that Voyager 2 is continuing its mission, scheduled to pass Uranus in 1986 and Neptune in 1989.

Personal Encounters and UFO Sightings

The Mann Family Encounter

A prominent article, "VI BLEV JAGADE AV" (WE WERE CHASED BY), recounts a startling experience of the Mann family. While driving near Stanford-in-the-Vale, UK, they witnessed a bright white light that they initially mistook for a car headlight. The light grew larger and was accompanied by a strange humming or swishing sound. The object, described as a "jättelikt ovalt föremål" (gigantic oval object) about thirty meters above the ground, moved slowly and passed directly over their car. The experience caused a time distortion, with the family losing approximately one hour. Following the encounter, several family members reported developing unexplained rashes and a large bruise on John Mann's leg. The incident was investigated by RAF Brize Norton, who found no civilian or military aircraft in the area at the time. The family later underwent hypnosis, which revealed further details about the encounter, including being taken to a different room and experiencing physical sensations.

Other Swedish Sightings

"Såg borlängebon ett 'flygande tefat'" (Borlänge resident saw a 'flying saucer') reports a sighting in Borlänge, Sweden, where a man observed a bright, yellowish, silent flying object with a stable light and no visible wings, moving quickly across the sky.

Another brief account, "Mannen som försvann" (The man who disappeared), describes a personal experience from Norrland, Sweden, where a man encountered a figure who then vanished inexplicably. The witness's mother reported that their dog had been agitated all night.

Other Articles

"VET NI OM ATT JESUS KOMMER SNART?" (DO YOU KNOW THAT JESUS IS COMING SOON?) is a more spiritual article, recounting an incident where a hitchhiker asked the question and then disappeared. The article connects this to a broader theme of divine messages and the imminent return of Jesus.

"Ryssar söker utomjordiska civilisationer" (Russians seek extraterrestrial civilizations) reports on Soviet plans to send radio signals to approximately 15 sun-like stars within 10 to 15 light-years, aiming to contact extraterrestrial civilizations. The project is described as having a low probability of success but is seen as a necessary step in developing new methods for detection.

"Första proto-stjärnan funnen" (First proto-star found) announces the discovery of a proto-star in the Large Magellanic Cloud by astronomers in Australia, providing the first direct evidence of ongoing star formation in other parts of the universe.

Association Activities

"FÖRENINGSTRÄFF I SÖDERBÄRKE" details a meeting of the Västerbergslagens UFO-förening held on April 3rd. Approximately 25 members attended, and Gudrun reported on local events, noting few recent observations. Hans Berglöf mentioned an invitation from Västerås and a report from the national meeting in Stockholm. Bernt reported on the sale of UFO magazines and a discussion about an article from Radio Station HCJB in Quito, Ecuador, which was also broadcast. The meeting concluded with a UFO film titled "Den krympande hämnaren" (The shrinking avenger) and coffee.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO sightings, investigations, and related phenomena, including space exploration and the possibility of extraterrestrial life. There is a clear interest in personal testimonies and detailed accounts of encounters. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into UFOs, presenting both scientific findings from space missions and anecdotal evidence from witnesses. The inclusion of spiritual and religious themes, such as the article about Jesus's imminent return, suggests a broader interest in unexplained phenomena that may extend beyond conventional UFOlogy. The association's stated goals emphasize scientific investigation and public awareness.

This issue of "GITHelg-Extra" from January 6, 1981, focuses on unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and related phenomena, with a prominent cover headline asking if a reported "flying saucer" was actually a DC-9 aircraft. The magazine features several articles detailing sightings, investigations, and research into UFOs in Sweden and internationally.

"Tefatet" - var det en DC 9:a? (Was it a DC 9?)

This article from Borlänge reports on discussions surrounding a "flying saucer" sighting. Kerstina Görlin recounts her seven-year-old grandson, Thomas Persson, seeing a low-flying, silent, yellowish object while sledding. Thomas described it as having a hatch underneath, no visible wings, and making no noise. He also saw a second, louder plane with green and red lights. A theory proposed by DD photographer Per-Olof Eriksson suggests the object was a DC-9 used for pilot training at the local airfield. The article notes that the DC-9 was unusual for the area, was seen circling the field, and had a yellowish interior light, making it appear silent. Separately, Lars Andersson from Kulturarvet in Falun explained a light phenomenon seen in Torsång as signal flares from military exercises. However, a discovery made a month prior in Dådran, where marks were found in ice seemingly from a hot object, remains unexplained.

...eller en meteorit? (...or a meteorite?)

This section reports on sightings in Ludvika of a mysterious flying object. Several people observed it at low altitude moving towards the town. One man, who studies the night sky, was convinced it was a meteorite, noting a visible tail and its low trajectory. The possibility of a meteorite impact is raised.

Medlemskap i Västerbergslagens UFO-förening (Membership in the Västerbergslagens UFO Association)

This is a brief announcement from the UFO association, noting a low number of new members in the first quarter. They remind members to pay their dues and offer to send the magazine to those who may have forgotten to pay. They also encourage members to provide feedback on the magazine and to submit interesting articles or events they encounter.

Lands reporter Inger Wennerlund: "Är jag galen eller var det ett UFO jag såg?" (Am I crazy or did I see a UFO?)

Inger Wennerlund reports on a personal experience where she, her husband Göran, and their son Pelle saw a mysterious object on the third day of Christmas while driving from Norrtälje to Stockholm. They described it as a luminous dome with some kind of stand underneath, emitting lights. Göran noted the absence of engine noise. They observed the object descending from the clouds and passing overhead at approximately 60 km/h. Pelle and Göran saw the dome and lights through the rear window.

Jag kör ifatt taxin (I chase the taxi)

This article continues the story of the UFO sighting by Inger Wennerlund and her family. They noticed a taxi and tried to catch up to it, noting its license plate HNG 441, hoping the driver had seen the object too. After returning to Stockholm, Pelle urged Inger to call the newspaper. Initially hesitant, Inger contacted the newspaper's night editor, who dismissed the sighting. The next day, while visiting relatives, they shared their experience, and were advised to contact UFO organizations. Inger then contacted the Swedish Defence Staff, who referred her to FOA (Swedish Defence Research Agency) department 5, responsible for investigating "oddities." Sture Wickerts at FOA, a meteorologist, promised to check weather data and Arlanda radar. Inger also contacted UFO Eskilstuna, where she learned she was not the only one reporting sightings, and that there had been an increase in observations during the autumn. Wickerts later reported that Arlanda radar showed nothing unusual, the military had no special activity, and the clouds were thin at 250 meters. He mentioned a half-moon with an unusually strong glow. Inger remained unconvinced, and after failing to reach the taxi driver through the vehicle registry, she contacted Radio Stockholm, which stated they did not run such public appeals. Finally, she reached the taxi driver, Christer Malmqvist, who confirmed seeing the object. He initially thought it was a plane but his passenger, Pelle, pointed out its unusual slow speed and lack of a tail. Malmqvist described seeing a ring of multi-colored lights and that the object was silent.

FOA avdelning 5 ska förklara (FOA Department 5 will explain)

This section details Inger Wennerlund's attempts to get an official explanation for her sighting. After being referred to FOA department 5, she spoke with meteorologist Sture Wickerts. She provided a detailed account, and they discussed possibilities like moonlight and cloud cover. Wickerts agreed to check weather and radar data. He later reported that Arlanda radar showed no unusual activity, and the military had no reports. He mentioned thin clouds at 250 meters and a bright half-moon. Inger also contacted Norrtälje Tidning for a notice, but it was never published. She also called Radio Stockholm, which declined to run such appeals.

Äntligen en till som sett (Finally, another witness)

Inger Wennerlund finally reached the taxi driver, Christer Malmqvist, who confirmed seeing the object on December 27, 1980. Malmqvist described the object as unusual, not like a plane, and having no tail. He saw a ring of multi-colored lights. He and his passenger discussed the UFO for the entire drive to Stockholm. Malmqvist's confirmation provided relief to Inger and her family, with Pelle being certain it was a UFO.

Vad är det som händer i mörkaste Småland (What is happening in the darkest Småland)

This article reports on a police pursuit of a "flying saucer" in Ljungby. Police inspectors Stig Carlsson and Torsten Karlsson were on patrol on January 6, 1981, when they observed a circular, intensely deep red object flying at low altitude. They were convinced it was not a natural phenomenon. The object was moving horizontally at a considerable speed. Several other people in the area, including Margareta Johansson and her daughter, also saw the object. Carlsson contacted the control center in Ljungby, which in turn contacted air traffic control at Sturup. They confirmed that the only aircraft in the air was a passenger plane at 10,000 meters, suggesting the UFO was flying much lower. Carlsson dismissed common explanations like rockets, meteors, or weather balloons, based on his experience. He noted that the object did not shed any particles, unlike rockets or comets. Estimating the height was difficult due to the darkness, but the absence of sightings from the high-flying passenger plane indicated the UFO was low.

Han tror inte på flygande tefat... HAN VET ATT DE FINNS... (He doesn't believe in flying saucers... HE KNOWS THEY EXIST...)

This article profiles Boris Jungkvist from Häggvik, Sollentuna, a dedicated UFO researcher. Jungkvist has been researching UFOs since 1949 when he and his family saw a "flying saucer" near Lake Magelungen in Stockholm. He has written two books, "UFO - en fantastisk verklighet" (UFO - a fantastic reality) and "Besökare från kosmos" (Visitors from the cosmos), identifying about twenty common UFO models. He leads the Häggvik UFO research center, with about 170 members nationwide. Members fill out forms detailing their observations. Jungkvist maintains contact with the military, aviation authorities, and meteorological institutes, as well as receiving information from NASA. He estimates that 20% of UFO observations remain unexplained, or "highly explainable" as normal UFOs. He believes evidence is overwhelming, citing thousands of documented sightings, radar confirmations, ground traces, photographs, and even recovered metallic fragments. He emphasizes that many witnesses are military personnel and pilots, whose professional skills make them reliable. Computer analysis has been used to distinguish UFOs from known objects. Typical UFO characteristics include silent flight, rapid acceleration, sharp turns, hovering, self-illumination, and color changes. He also mentions a unique sighting near Lake Närdingen in 1976 of an object shaped like a 1930s De Havilland Tiger Moth biplane. Jungkvist speculates that this might be a tactic to confuse observers about the aliens' true intentions. He suggests aliens may be conducting scientific observations, possibly planning an invasion, and are interested in military installations, power plants, communication systems, and water reserves. The article includes a drawing of what aliens supposedly look like, based on witness reports. It also notes that some areas, like Norrbotten and Småland, have experienced more frequent UFO sightings.

Kulturbiten: Existerar UFOs eller sk flygande tefat? (Culture Bite: Do UFOs Exist or are they Flying Saucers?)

This article discusses the relative scarcity of UFO reports in newspapers today, contrasting it with Boris Jungkvist's findings in his book "Besökare från kosmos." Jungkvist claims that 20-30% of UFO observations have no natural explanation. He believes authorities, particularly the military, suppress UFO information, not just in the US but also in Nordic countries. He questions why more people don't report sightings, suggesting fear of ridicule might be a factor, though he finds this hard to believe. He argues that the existence of other intelligent life in space should make people less afraid to report such encounters. The article describes a typical UFO as being four to five meters in diameter with a dome, capable of silent, rapid, and agile flight, and emitting a humming sound. The beings observed, described as "humanoids," are between 1 and 1.5 meters tall and wear spacesuits. Jungkvist advocates for a scientific UFO research program in Sweden, costing at least 200 million SEK, to understand the phenomenon better. The article concludes by noting that authorities currently state they cannot afford such a program.

Pilot kidnappad av flygande tefat? (Pilot kidnapped by flying saucer?)

This article reports on a UFO incident in Australia. A 20-year-old pilot, Frederick Valentich, flying a small Cessna aircraft off the coast of Victoria, reported seeing a large flying object with "four strong lights" passing about a thousand feet above him. He described it as having a metallic sheen and a green light. His radio contact with Melbourne air traffic control was lost shortly after. Hundreds of people reported seeing UFOs along the Victorian coast following the incident. Despite extensive searches, no trace of Valentich or his aircraft was found. Aviation authorities suggested Valentich might have become disoriented in the dark and mistaken lights reflected in clouds for a UFO. The transcript of his last radio transmission indicates he was concerned about the object and that his engine began to malfunction. He stated the unknown machine was flying above him before radio contact was lost.

TORONTO FALLET. (The Toronto Case.)

This section details a case investigated by CUFORN (Canadian UFO Research Network) involving a woman named Sarah, who underwent hypnosis sessions in Toronto. CUFORN contacted a doctor specializing in hypnosis. Sarah, under hypnosis on October 10, 1979, described being taken through the wall of a UFO into a brightly lit interior with an artificial light. She smelled chicken and felt an unusual sensation with her hands. She spoke of seven "shy-looking" beings, described as tall, oval, about 4 feet high, and crystal-clear with different colors. They communicated telepathically, stating they had taken her for testing and had been to Earth before, planning to return when she was 25. She felt as if she had been aboard for a year. She described the place she was shown as red and non-existent. She also mentioned a sharp light that caused a sunburn on her face and neck, but not her hands, as she wore gloves. In a subsequent session on October 18, 1979, Sarah described a physical examination where instruments were placed in her mouth, and a light directed at her thumbs and index fingers, causing them to bleed. A machine was placed on her head to find out what she "knew." She asked the beings where they were from, but couldn't recall their answer. She saw an ordinary English-speaking man in the craft, who claimed to be there for the same test and whose name started with 'A'. He was from outside her immediate area. On October 24, 1979, Sarah described seeing a "funny man" who followed her from a bakery to her schoolyard. This "MIB" (Man In Black) asked her to move away from her friends and began asking questions about her friends, whom he seemed to believe were dangerous. The man disappeared abruptly. Sarah described him as 6 feet tall, with a dull greyish face, slanted eyes, and wearing a black suit. He had a sly smile, a pointed nose, long fingernails, and his feet pointed outwards at 90 degrees, with shoes having 7-8 cm heels. The article notes that the man's companions were also present, and he warned Sarah that they would pursue her if she didn't share her UFO experience. He seemed surprised by her mention of computers on the UFO.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, the possibility of extraterrestrial visitation, and the perceived secrecy or skepticism from authorities and the public. The magazine presents various accounts, from eyewitness reports of strange aerial phenomena to research and personal experiences. There is an underlying stance that UFOs are a genuine phenomenon worthy of investigation, with a critical view of official explanations and a call for more scientific research. The inclusion of the Toronto case and the MIB encounter suggests an interest in the more sensational and potentially sinister aspects of the UFO phenomenon, including alleged alien abduction and covert government involvement.