UFO-Nytt - 1982 No 2

Magazine Overview

This issue of Västerbergslagens UFO NYTT is a publication from the Västerbergslagens UFO-förening, a Swedish UFO organization. The magazine is issued four times a year. This particular issue, identified by the number 21982, features a variety of articles and reports related to UFO phenomena, biblical interpretations, and space exploration.

From the Editors (Från Redaktionen)

The editorial section introduces the content of this issue, which includes the conclusion of the 'Dolomiterfallet' (Dolomites Incident), a report from South America and the radio station HCJB, and a discussion on UFOs in relation to the Bible. The editors mention a past meeting where questions from a radio station about UFOs and the Bible, specifically the book of Ezekiel, were addressed. They also include a clipping from the station titled "Look up at the sky, we are not alone." The section notes that local UFO events are scarce, with the most interesting being incidents in Röros, Norway, which have not yet been published. Upcoming events include a TV program about UFOs on 'MAGASINET' in early May, featuring representatives from UFO-Sveriges Riksorganisation. A report from the national meeting will be in the next issue. The editorial team consists of Bernt Berglund, Gudrun Andersson, Eivor Johansson, Per-Elis Schröder, and Ing-Marie Strömberg. The magazine's address is Västerbergslagens UFO-förening, Box 71, 77101 Ludvika.

The Dolomites Incident (Dolomiterna)

This section provides a detailed first-person account of a UFO encounter. The narrator describes a machine that began to sway, then ascended rapidly to an altitude of approximately 300 meters before disappearing. The experience left the narrator feeling overwhelmed and sweating profusely, with the air feeling warm. After the mist cleared, the sky was full of stars. The narrator's flashlight failed, and upon reaching their Fiat 600, they were unable to forget the event. To confirm they were awake, they pricked themselves with a needle. They then drove to their aunt's hotel and, the following morning, wrote and sketched their experience. Attempts to share the experience with cousins were met with ridicule, and other serious individuals reacted unhelpfully. Consequently, the narrator decided to keep the experience private. Later, they contacted their daughter in California, who was married to an American, to seek help in contacting an administration dealing with UFO matters. Twenty days after the incident, the narrator returned to the site to photograph marks left by the craft's weight, noting that the grass near where light had streamed out had grown three times as high as the surrounding grass.

The narrator then describes a subsequent trip to California. At San Francisco Airport, a customs official questioned the plants in their bag, which were identified as chrysanthemums intended for their daughter's father-in-law's grave. The official, initially assuming they were marihuana, changed his tone and allowed them to pass. In Sacramento, the narrator and their daughter made copies of their notes and spent the morning writing letters to UFO organizations, but received no replies. This led the narrator to keep the experience to themselves again, though they developed a strong interest in UFOs, despite often finding articles to be nonsensical, considering only a few to be genuine.

The Dire Comets (De ödesdigra kometerna)

This article reviews Nigel Calder's book "Kometen kommer" (The Comet is Coming), as reviewed by Tord Hall. The review discusses how comets were historically viewed as omens of disaster, such as pestilence and war, due to their unpredictable appearances disrupting astrological order. Despite modern understanding of 'hårstjärnorna' (star-haired ones), fear of comets persists. The book highlights Halley's Comet as a recurring motif, appearing approximately every 76 years, with its last visit in 1910 and the next expected in 1986. Halley's work, along with Newton's 1687 publication 'Principia', laid the foundation for classical mechanics. Newton's laws of gravity dictate that comets follow elliptical, parabolic, or hyperbolic paths. The review notes that by the late 1600s, a mathematical basis for comet studies was established, and scientific understanding has grown with technological advancements. Comets are now believed to originate from a cosmic reservoir far beyond the solar system. Calder's book, according to the review, emphasizes the numerous mistakes made by scholars throughout history in explaining comets, presenting it as an amusing parade of errors that is useful for understanding how correct ideas often emerge from many incorrect ones. The reviewer expresses reservations about the Swedish translation, suggesting it contains journalistic elements inappropriate for popular science. The review also defends Newton's theories, stating that his gravitational theory is a good approximation of Einstein's and that his mechanics are sufficient for space travel. The reviewer criticizes the translation for inaccuracies and linguistic issues.

Book Reviews (Brief Mentions)

• Several other books are briefly mentioned with their authors and publishers:
• Isaac Asimov: "Svarta hål och kosmiska ägg" (Black Holes and Cosmic Eggs) - A popular introduction to modern cosmology and astrophysics.
• Doris Lessing: "Planeten Sirius: experiment" (Planet Sirius: Experiment) - A continuation of her 'space fiction' series.
• Robert Silverberg: "Förändringarnas tid" (The Time of Change) - A science fiction book awarded the Nebula Prize.
• Tor Ragnar Gerholm: "Människan och fysiken" (Man and Physics) - An explanation of how modern physics has changed our worldview.
• S-Fairley, J Welfare / Arthur Clarke: "Gåtfulla vårld" (Enigmatic World) - A book about flying saucers, sea monsters, and other mysteries.
• Ake Hallgren: "Liv och död i universum" (Life and Death in the Universe) - An accessible overview of the universe.
• Bernard Fischman: "Mannen som for till månen på sin 10-växlade cykel" (The Man Who Went to the Moon on His 10-Speed Bicycle) - A fantastical book about venturing into the unknown.

Afterthought (Eftertanke)

The author reflects on the aftermath of a UFO sighting. A peculiar consequence was that their watch ran two hours slow each day, necessitating its replacement. The author also experienced fatigue and hair loss, which they treated with honey, coffee, egg yolk, cognac, and garlic pills. Within two months, they felt better and their hair had regrown. Following the sighting, the author purchased a telescope, a regular camera, and a film camera, hoping to photograph or film another UFO, but never had the chance. The experience personally changed the author's values regarding politics and religion, leading to the conclusion that humanity is still very immature and possesses "animal-like tendencies."

Report from Bernt: Contacts with South America, Radio Station HCJB Quito Ecuador

Bernt details his extensive contacts with South America, stemming from his hobby as a shortwave listener (DX-er). He frequently listens to HCJB in Quito, Ecuador, a radio station supported by free churches and various countries. HCJB broadcasts daily Swedish programs, which Bernt listens to and comments on, receiving QSL cards in return. Their correspondence has also touched upon UFO topics. This issue includes a response to a previous letter and an article from a newspaper received via the radio station. The report mentions a discussion about UFOs and a vision of the prophet Ezekiel, initiated by Bernt Berglund in Ludvika, continuing previous discussions with Iris and Christer.

Ongoing Conversation: Ezekiel & UFO

This section delves into questions raised by Bernt regarding UFOs and visions of the prophet Ezekiel in the Old Testament. The discussion, involving Bernt, Iris, and Christer, took place at a UFO meeting with 20-25 participants. The initial part of the conversation focused on chapter 1 of Ezekiel's book. Specific questions were raised about why only verses 1 and 28 were used in previous answers, and the meaning of "a stormwind" (verse 4). The symbolism of "gleaming metal" (verse 4) and the material "chrysoprase" (verse 16) used for the wheels were also discussed, along with the interpretation of "loțar" (wheels/rims) described as high and dreadful (verse 18). Iris's explanation for focusing on the first and last verses was that for Ezekiel, the "forms" through which God manifested Himself were less important than the fact that God revealed Himself and what He intended to convey through the prophet.

Today We Have the Space Shuttle

This section discusses the current state of space exploration, mentioning the Space Shuttle and the upcoming first space platform and space colony. NASA is increasing its efforts to deploy a manned experimental platform in space and is conducting laboratory experiments to understand life mechanisms in space, which are crucial for future populated space colonies. The article describes experiments involving sealed glass flasks containing miniature ecosystems with shrimp, algae, and microorganisms. These flasks, located at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, have maintained balance for over 15 months, a record achievement. Studying these closed environments provides vital knowledge for planning life support in large space colonies.

The Sun Dog Painting (Vädersolstavlan)

A historical account describes unusual phenomena observed over Stockholm on April 20, 1535, at 7 AM: six reddish concentric circles appeared in the sky. Contemporaries interpreted this as a warning sign, and Olaus Petri preached about God's wrath. A painter, traditionally identified as Urban Målare, created a topographical depiction of Stockholm from Mariaberget. Gustav Vasa reportedly wanted to destroy the painting but did not dare, as many believed the phenomenon was a message from God. The "Vädersolstavlan" (Sun Dog Painting) is displayed in Stockholm's Storkyrka.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the intersection of the unexplained (UFOs), historical interpretations (Biblical accounts, ancient phenomena), and scientific endeavors (space exploration). The magazine appears to adopt a stance that is open to investigating UFO phenomena, seeking connections between them and religious texts, while also acknowledging and reporting on scientific progress in space. There's a clear interest in personal testimonies and historical accounts, juxtaposed with discussions on scientific theories and future possibilities in space. The editorial team seems dedicated to exploring these diverse topics for their members.

This issue of KING-CON magazine, dated May 28-31, 1982, focuses on the first Nordic Science Fiction Congress, held between Stockholm and Helsinki. The magazine explores themes of UFOs, alien encounters, and the intersection of science fiction with spirituality and mysticism.

Theological Interpretations and 'New Mysticism'

The issue begins by examining the Book of Ezekiel, interpreting the prophet's visions as divine revelations rather than material phenomena. It contrasts this with the growing trend of 'new mysticism,' which has seen a rise in interest in the occult, spiritualism, and esoteric beliefs, particularly in the late 1970s and early 1980s. This trend is linked to a societal search for meaning beyond materialism, spurred by the perceived emptiness following the optimism of the 1950s and the student revolts of the 1960s.

Madame Helena Petrova Blavatsky and 'The Theosophical Society,' founded in 1875, are cited as early influences, blending Gnosticism, Western atheism, and Eastern mysticism. The popularity of ideas about ancient civilizations like Atlantis and communication with spiritual 'masters' grew through books like "Flying Saucers have landed" and "The Third Eye."

Erich von Däniken is presented as a prominent figure in this 'new mysticism,' with his 'scientific' books selling millions. His theories suggest that religions share a common origin stemming from visits by extraterrestrial beings, and that biblical accounts, such as Elijah's ascension and the opening chapters of Ezekiel, describe encounters with UFOs and flying saucers.

Von Däniken's ideas are further explored in his book "Gudasäd" (God's Seed), where he posits that the force behind the Big Bang was mistakenly personified as God, suggesting it is a neutral force, 'It,' which is both the cause and result of creation. The magazine questions the impersonal nature of 'It' versus the personal nature of humans and God.

Other authors contributing to this genre include W. Raymond Drake, Barry Downing, and R. L. Diones, whose works often blend Eastern science-fiction-Hinduism with beliefs in reincarnation and other dimensions. The magazine criticizes these theories for their methodological flaws, particularly their selective use of evidence and disregard for well-documented historical sources.

Science Fiction and New Religions

The issue also touches upon the development of new religious movements inspired by science fiction. A group of science fiction writers in the late 1940s discussed creating a modern religion based on science fiction concepts and cultic practices derived from psychoanalysis. This led to L. Ron Hubbard's 'Dianetics' and later Scientology, which is described as a dogmatic-free church using 'scientific methods' like auditing with an E-meter to enhance self-esteem. Scientology's concept of 'Thetan' and reincarnation is also mentioned.

UFO Phenomena and the Alan Godfrey Case

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to UFO sightings and alleged alien encounters. The article "Stort hål i stjärnhimlen förbryllar astronomer" (A large hole in the starry sky puzzles astronomers) reports on the discovery of a vast void in the constellation Boötes, approximately 300 million light-years wide, where no galaxies exist.

The central case study is the alleged abduction of Police Constable Alan Godfrey in Todmorden, England, on November 28, 1980. Godfrey reported seeing a strange, hovering object and later, under hypnosis, recounted an experience involving examination by small, robot-like beings with lamp-like heads, led by a being named Josef. The account also mentions a large, dog-like creature.

His story gained public attention, leading to interviews with criminal inspectors and UFO researchers. Godfrey was persuaded to undergo hypnosis, during which he described the interior of a 'flying saucer' and being subjected to procedures, including having something placed around his arm and leg. The hypnosis session had to be terminated due to his elevated heart rate.

Further investigation under hypnosis yielded similar details, though Godfrey expressed fear and reluctance to discuss the 'apparatus' he saw. The magazine presents the testimony of psychiatrist Robert Blair, who found Godfrey's account highly unusual and credible.

To support the credibility of Godfrey's experience, the magazine recounts two similar cases: the Betty and Barney Hill abduction in Portsmouth, USA, in November 1961, and the Fortunato Zanfretta case in Italy in December 1978. In both instances, individuals under hypnosis provided detailed, consistent accounts of alien encounters and examinations.

Alan Godfrey expresses frustration with the public attention his case has drawn, stating he does not read UFO literature and wishes to be left alone. He denies fabricating the story for attention and asserts his integrity as a police officer.

Book Reviews and Congress Information

The issue also includes a section on books, listing titles such as "Rymdens Äventyr" (The Adventure of Space) by Ian Ridpath, "Hjältar och moster på himlavalvet" (Heroes and Monsters in the Firmament) by Maj Samzelius, and various UFO-related books. Information about the KING-CON congress is provided, including the itinerary, cost (650 SEK, excluding the banquet), and contact details for registration.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to adopt a critical stance towards the more speculative and unverified claims within the UFO and 'new mysticism' fields, particularly those of Erich von Däniken, highlighting methodological flaws and potential falsehoods. However, it presents detailed accounts of alleged UFO encounters, such as the Alan Godfrey case, and similar historical incidents, suggesting an openness to investigating such phenomena while maintaining a degree of skepticism. The underlying theme is the human search for meaning, whether through religious faith, scientific inquiry, or speculative exploration of the unknown, and the magazine seems to position itself as a platform for discussing these diverse perspectives within the science fiction community.

This issue, titled "Ett nytt fönster mot rymden" (A New Window to Space), delves into the history and advancements in our understanding of the cosmos, focusing on radio astronomy and space exploration. It covers key discoveries, technological developments, and dramatic events in space.

The Dawn of Radio Astronomy: Karl Jansky's Discovery

The issue begins by recounting the 50th anniversary of the discovery that the universe is expanding, made through optical telescopes. However, it highlights a parallel, revolutionary discovery made by 26-year-old engineer Karl Jansky at Bell Telephone Laboratories (BTL) in 1931: the detection of radio waves from space. Jansky, tasked with investigating radio interference, built a rotating radio antenna on a wooden tripod. While listening to static, he identified a new type of "very faint, very steady hiss." Initially, he noted that the signal varied in strength and seemed to follow the sun's movement. However, further measurements revealed that the direction of the noise was slightly out of sync with the sun's movement, suggesting the source was elsewhere.

Jansky's astronomical studies led him to realize that the apparent rotation of the stars was due to Earth's rotation. He found that his radio noise varied with the same period as the stars' apparent rotation. This led him to suspect, against all odds, that the radio noise originated from a fixed point in space. By analyzing his notes, he calculated that the strongest signals came from the direction of the constellation Sagittarius, which he knew from astronomy books to be the direction of the center of the Milky Way.

This groundbreaking discovery was reported by The New York Times with the headline: "New radio waves traced to center of Milky Way." Jansky's primitive radio telescope was connected to a radio station in New York, allowing listeners worldwide to hear a direct broadcast of radio waves from the center of our galaxy. The origin of these waves remained a mystery, sparking speculation about extraterrestrial contact.

The puzzle of the radio waves' origin was not solved for another ten years. Because Jansky's discovery had no immediate commercial application, it was largely forgotten after the initial excitement. The onset of World War II shifted the focus of radio engineers to radar technology, through which radio waves from the sun were discovered, leading to the dismissal of the 'spirit' hypothesis for Jansky's findings.

During the war, Dutch physicists calculated that, for example, hydrogen atoms could act as small radio transmitters, and hydrogen is the most abundant element in space. They predicted a wavelength of 21 centimeters for this emission. In 1951, Americans Purcell and Ewen detected this "Song of Hydrogen" in space at the predicted wavelength, thus explaining the mystery behind Karl Jansky's discovery. Sadly, Jansky passed away from an incurable kidney disease the year before, never knowing the explanation for his monumental discovery.

Advancements in Radio Telescopes and Cosmic Discoveries

The issue emphasizes the significance of Jansky's discovery, noting that while it was ahead of its time, the past 30 years have vindicated his work. Since the 1950s, larger and larger radio telescopes have been built globally. For a long time, the Jodrell Bank telescope in England, with its 76-meter dish, was the largest. Currently, the world's largest radio telescope is located in Eiffelsberg, near Bonn, Germany, with a 100-meter diameter.

The 1950s saw the mapping of hydrogen distribution in space. In 1960, a new type of object, quasars, were discovered using radio telescopes. Quasars are located billions of light-years away, emit enormous amounts of energy, yet are paradoxically small and recede at incredible speeds. Their origin remains a mystery, but they may have formed at the creation of the universe.

In 1965, Penzias and Wilson detected the cosmic microwave background radiation, which is the radiation left over from the universe's creation. In 1967, radio astronomer Anthony Hewish in England discovered the first neutron star. These are incredibly dense objects; a tablespoon of their material weighs about 40 billion tons. Neutron stars are also called pulsars and are formed when stars explode in supernovae.

During the 1970s, radio telescopes discovered many more molecules in space besides hydrogen, including water and ammonia, and dozens of other molecules essential for life elsewhere in the universe.

In contemporary exploration, radio telescopes play a crucial role in studying black holes, which are completely black and undetectable by optical telescopes.

A Dramatic Spacewalk Incident

The magazine also recounts a dramatic event from the past involving cosmonaut Yuri Romanenko during the Soyuz 26 mission. While performing a spacewalk outside the Salyut 6 space station, Romanenko lost his balance and floated out into space because his safety line was not properly secured. His crewmate, Georgij Gretjko, who was inspecting a malfunctioning docking port, managed to grab Romanenko's lifeline just in time, preventing a potential tragedy and saving his life. This incident, which occurred years earlier, only became widely known recently.

The Space Telescope Project

The issue features the Space Telescope, a project by NASA planned for launch in 1985. This advanced telescope, with a 13.1-meter diameter, is designed to orbit Earth at an altitude of 600 km. It will observe 350 times more of the universe than ground-based telescopes, extending humanity's view to 14 billion light-years. The telescope's primary mirror, a 2.4-meter masterpiece of precision, was ground to a surface smoother than 1/100,000th of a millimeter. The telescope is being built by Lockheed Space & Missiles Company, with the mirror crafted by Perkin-Elmer. The Space Telescope will be launched by the Space Shuttle, allowing for potential servicing by astronauts in orbit.

Book Reviews and Recurring Themes

The issue includes brief descriptions of several books, including "Kometen kommer" by Nigel Calder, "Andromeda anropar" by F-Elliot Hoyle and J. Hoyle, and "Astronomisk uppslagsbok" by Åke Wallenquist. It also lists other books related to astronomy, UFOs, and cars.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes the exploration of space and the scientific endeavor to understand the universe. It highlights the importance of scientific discoveries, technological advancements, and the ongoing quest for knowledge about cosmic phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of fascination with space and a commitment to informing the public about the latest developments in astronomy and space exploration, while also touching upon more speculative topics like UFOs.