UFO-Nytt - 1984 No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: VÄSTERBERGSLAGENS UFO NYTT

Issue: 1984

Publisher: Västerbergslagens UFO-förening

Date: 1984

Content: This issue of the Swedish UFO magazine features a diverse range of articles, from the complexities of quantum mechanics to personal accounts of UFO sightings and psychic phenomena. It also touches upon science fiction and astronomical events.

From the Editors

The editorial section wishes members a Happy New Year 1984 and expresses hope that the magazine will be useful and enjoyable. It announces that the first issue of UFO-NYTT for the year will contain unusual articles. The editors mention an article on quantum mechanics that is described as astonishing, and another about Alve Holmkvist's experiences in Hälsingland, where he allegedly ridiculed UFO research through his contacts with Venus. A story about a 'terrible bloodbath' that occurred 300 years ago is also highlighted, along with an article on UFO-Sweden and its work. A new article from FSR titled 'The Winged Beings at Bluestone Walk' is mentioned, as well as an account of what girls in Rättvik saw. The issue includes the annual report, though interest was reportedly low. Upcoming meetings are announced: a club meeting on March 25th (moved from March 10th) and a new club gathering on June 1st. Special observation evenings are scheduled for March 24th, April 5th, April 28th, and May 20th. Members are encouraged to bring interested friends to recruit new members. The editorial team wishes everyone a good New Year and hopes the magazine will be beneficial.

Membership for 1984 is 40 kronor, or 25 kronor for those under 16. The address for the organization is BOX 71, 77101 Ludvika.

Quantum Mechanics: An Incredible Theory That Works

This article delves into the fascinating and often counter-intuitive world of quantum mechanics. It explains how this physical theory, despite its abstract nature, has enabled practical technologies like modern computers and lasers. The author highlights phenomena such as particles appearing and disappearing, passing through impenetrable barriers, and interacting over vast distances without apparent contact. These phenomena, while observable in laboratories, defy everyday language and understanding.

Newtonian Physics vs. Quantum Mechanics: The article contrasts the deterministic world of Newtonian physics, which describes the motion of macroscopic objects, with the probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics. For electrons orbiting an atom, their position is not a precise geometric curve but rather a 'cloud' of probability. It's only when a measurement is made that a definite property, like position, is observed, but this act of measurement also disrupts the probabilistic state.

The Role of Probability: The author notes that while it might seem like a scientific capitulation to rely on probability, quantum mechanics has proven to be an incredibly effective tool for studying and calculating physical processes at the microscopic level. Technologies like computers and transistors rely on the understanding of semiconductor functions derived from quantum mechanics.

The Uncertainty Principle: The article touches upon Heisenberg's uncertainty principle, which states that certain properties of a particle, such as position and momentum, cannot be known with arbitrary precision simultaneously. The more precisely one measures a particle's position, the less certain one becomes about its speed, and vice versa.

The Tunnel Effect: A key concept explained is the 'tunnel effect,' where particles like alpha particles can seemingly pass through a barrier (like an atomic nucleus) without having enough energy to overcome it. This is explained by the particle's wave function, which has a probability of extending beyond the barrier. This phenomenon is now utilized commercially, for example, in IBM's hyperspeed computer transistors.

Virtual Particles and Vacuum: The article also discusses the concept of 'virtual particles' that constantly pop in and out of existence in a vacuum, making it far from empty. It also introduces the Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen (EPR) paradox, a thought experiment that highlights the non-local correlations predicted by quantum mechanics.

EPR Paradox and Entanglement: The EPR paradox is further explained with the example of two photons emitted from an atom. If these photons are measured for their polarization, and they are entangled, a measurement on one instantaneously influences the state of the other, regardless of the distance separating them. This 'spooky action at a distance' was a point of contention for Einstein.

Polarization Filters: The article uses polarization filters, similar to those in sunglasses, to illustrate how entangled photons behave. If two entangled photons encounter parallel polarization filters, they either both pass or both are blocked, demonstrating a correlation that defies classical probability.

Mysterious Signals and the Speed of Light: The article mentions experiments by Alain Aspect that ruled out 'tuned' filters or signals traveling faster than light. The speed of light is presented as a fundamental constant in modern physics, and faster-than-light signals (tachyons) are considered to violate causality.

Philosophical Implications: The strange implications of quantum mechanics have led many theoretical physicists to develop a philosophical outlook, and it has also attracted interest from proponents of telekinesis and other paranormal phenomena.

Rosario, 12, Moves Objects With Her Gaze

This section reports on Rosario Gonzales, a 12-year-old girl from Mendoza, Argentina, who possesses the ability to levitate objects simply by looking at them. Her family and community are reportedly frightened by this phenomenon, which she cannot control. The ability reportedly manifested when she was eleven, causing a potato to float while she was peeling it. Her father, Geronimo, recounts an incident where a soda bottle flew around the shop. The article notes that Rosario herself is distressed by her ability and wishes to be rid of it. The phenomenon has led to her being ostracized and even reported to the police. A Catholic priest was consulted, who witnessed Rosario levitate a large bottle. The article concludes that this is an unexplained psychic phenomenon, not related to demonic influence.

Russian Space Station 1985

This brief article discusses the Soviet Union's plans for a manned space station, expected to be launched in 1985. It mentions that the Soviets would require a larger rocket than previously used and that a test flight of a model is planned for the current year (1984). The article also notes that the Soviets have hinted at working on a shuttle system. NASA is reportedly building a large organization to plan and coordinate a space station program, with a 'Space Station Task Force' analyzing requirements and a 'Space Station Technology Steering Committee' developing methods and technologies. The article lists desired features for a space station, including a manned system in low Earth orbit, shuttle compatibility, modularity, and long-term operability through service and repair. The final construction phase is slated for 1987, with the first flight planned for 1991. The 'ET' (External Tank) is mentioned as a potential cost-effective component.

The Unknown Worlds: The Appeal of Science Fiction

This article explores the enduring appeal of science fiction, questioning why some people embrace it while others dismiss it as mere fantasy. The author argues that science fiction offers a boundless realm for imagination, where the author and reader define the limits. It highlights that many 'serious' authors, such as Harry Martinson, Doris Lessing, Kurt Vonnegut, and P.C. Jersild, have written science fiction. The article notes that more science fiction is published in the Soviet Union than in the USA. It traces the origins of science fiction to authors like Jules Verne, whose works focused on technology and progress, and H.G. Wells, who emphasized the human impact of technology and lacked Verne's optimism. The article categorizes authors as either 'Verneian' or 'Wellesian' based on their focus. The 1920s and 1930s are identified as a period of significant growth for science fiction, with many stories featuring space travel and alien encounters. The influence of authors like Isaac Asimov and Robert Heinlein, who introduced concepts like the Galactic Empire, is discussed. The article defines 'Sense of Wonder' as a key element of good science fiction, a feeling of awe and fascination that doesn't necessarily involve spaceships or aliens. A short story by Fredrick Brown is presented as an example of this 'Sense of Wonder.' The article also mentions recent highly anticipated books by Isaac Asimov ('Foundation and Earth') and Arthur C. Clarke ('2010: Odyssey Two'), as well as Frank Herbert's 'Dune' series ('Arrakis') and Ursula K. Le Guin's works.

The Unknown Worlds: Creating Science Fiction Adventures

This section discusses the foundational elements of science fiction, attributing its roots to Jules Verne and H.G. Wells. Verne's stories were characterized by fascination with technological advancement and a somewhat detached portrayal of humanity, while Wells focused more on the human condition and the impact of technology, often with less optimism. The article notes that science fiction authors can be categorized as either 'Verneian' or 'Wellesian.' The golden age of science fiction in the 1920s and 1930s is described, with many stories featuring space opera tropes. The influence of Isaac Asimov and Robert Heinlein is highlighted, particularly Asimov's 'Foundation' series, which established a vast galactic empire. The concept of 'Sense of Wonder' is presented as a crucial element of compelling science fiction, evoking a sense of awe and fascination. The article mentions recent works by Isaac Asimov and Arthur C. Clarke, as well as Frank Herbert's 'Dune' series and Ursula K. Le Guin's novels. It concludes by stating that as long as people have visions of the future, science fiction will continue to be written.

We Saw the Terrible Bloodbath in the Valley, Even Though It Happened 300 Years Ago!

This article recounts an extraordinary experience of the Garrett family—Alexander, Doreen, and their children Aileen (11) and James (7)—during their trip to Scotland. While driving through the Glencoe valley, the children, who were allowed to play while their parents had a picnic, witnessed what they believed to be a film reenactment. They described seeing soldiers in red coats and grey trousers with muskets, and a scene of violence where people were being shot and bayoneted. They observed primitive huts, a light, milky fog, and bloodstains on the ground, despite it being September. Aileen described a man with bound hands being forced to kneel and then shot, and a young couple dressed in strange leather-like clothing. The man asked if they were from Appin. The children's perception of a film shoot was so vivid that Aileen remarked on the realism and the snow on the ground, which was not present in reality. The article suggests that the children may have psychically perceived a historical event, the 1692 massacre of the MacDonald clan by English soldiers.

Clarisa Predicts Earthquakes

This article introduces Clarisa Bernhardt, a woman from Los Angeles, California, who possesses the unique ability to accurately predict earthquakes. Initially, authorities dismissed her predictions, but her consistent accuracy has led them to take her warnings seriously. Geologist Roger N. Hunter reportedly considers her the most reliable 'instrument' for earthquake prediction. The article cites several instances of her accurate predictions, including an earthquake on the Azores in 1975, one in Hawaii in 1975, and another in New Guinea in 1976, all with remarkable precision regarding date and, in one case, magnitude. It also details a prediction for California in 1974 that was ignored but occurred exactly as she foretold. Clarisa describes her ability as seeing 'a movie inside my head,' where she suddenly sees where and when an earthquake will occur.

Stolen by Metal: Melted When He Sat On It!

This piece focuses on Thomaz Goutinho, a 33-year-old Brazilian psychic phenomenon. The article claims he can transform a coin into a medal without touching it, make objects levitate, and disappear and reappear telepathically over long distances. He has reportedly been witnessed by researchers from around the world. Dr. Lee Pulos, a psychic researcher from Cambridge University, observed Thomaz pass through a salad bar and witnessed the seat of a metal chair melt when Thomaz sat on it. Parapsychological researcher Claudio Caparelli has also witnessed Thomaz make a Christ portrait bleed on three separate occasions, even managing to photograph the event. The article states that scientists agree Thomaz is unique, possessing abilities that surpass those of other psychics, such as metal bending or clairvoyance.

Solar Eclipse: A Public Spectacle in May 1984

This article announces a partial solar eclipse visible in Sweden on the evening of May 30, 1984. The eclipse will be visible in Falun between 7:19 PM and 8:31 PM, with the maximum coverage of 20.8% occurring at 7:55 PM. The article also mentions four other eclipses in 1984, three of which are lunar eclipses on May 15th, June 13th, and November 8th. The May 15th lunar eclipse is described as a 'penumbral' eclipse, barely visible in Sweden. The remaining solar eclipse on November 22-23 will be total but not visible in Sweden, with the next total solar eclipse visible in Sweden occurring in 2126. The article explains that a solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, casting a shadow. A partial eclipse happens when the Moon covers only a portion of the Sun, while a total eclipse occurs when the entire Sun is obscured.

The Grave of Barbados: An Unknown Force Threw the Coffins Around

This article recounts a mysterious phenomenon associated with a grave vault in Christ Church, Barbados. Built in the early 1700s, the vault became the resting place for members of the Chase family. Starting in 1807, coffins placed in the vault were repeatedly found scattered and overturned, as if by a violent force. Despite efforts to seal the vault, including by Governor Lord Combermere in 1819, the phenomenon persisted. Theories of earthquakes were dismissed as the vault was far above groundwater levels and unaffected by seismic activity. The article notes that two of the deceased had committed suicide, and the Chase family was unpopular, leading to speculation that Mrs. Goddard, one of the buried, might have been responsible for deterring intruders. Curiously, Mrs. Goddard's body was never found after the vault was sealed. The vault is now empty, and locals avoid it, sensing an unknown presence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of unexplained phenomena, scientific inquiry, and speculative theories. There's a clear interest in UFOs, psychic abilities, and the frontiers of physics, particularly quantum mechanics. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards these subjects, presenting accounts and theories without outright dismissal, while also acknowledging the scientific and skeptical viewpoints. The inclusion of articles on science fiction and astronomical events suggests a broader interest in the unknown and the future. The magazine aims to inform its members about these topics, encouraging discussion and further investigation.

This issue of the Swedish UFO magazine, likely titled 'UFO-Aktuellt' or similar given the content and publisher, focuses on significant UFO and paranormal events, with a particular emphasis on Swedish reports and historical connections. The cover boldly proclaims 'A Flying Saucer a Day in Sweden!', suggesting a high frequency of sightings.

The Glencoe Time Slip

The lead story details an extraordinary experience reported by the Garrett family, particularly their children, Aileen and James. While on holiday in Scotland, they claim to have witnessed a spectral reenactment of the 1692 Glencoe massacre. The children described seeing soldiers in red coats, fleeing figures, and a bloody scene. Their account was corroborated by local librarian Jeanne Urquhart, who noted that similar, though less detailed, sightings had been reported in the Glencoe area in 1931 and 1949. Urquhart explained the historical context of the Glencoe massacre, ordered by Minister Dalrymple under the authority of King William III, involving the brutal killing of the MacDonald clan.

The article highlights several factors that made the children's account particularly compelling: they could not have known the historical details beforehand, and their description of the figures speaking to them was unique compared to previous reports. The children's ability to identify specific individuals like 'Alasdair Maclan' and 'John Maclan' further added to the credibility of their story. A research group from the Society for Psychical Research reportedly found the story authentic, unable to explain how the children could have witnessed an event from 1692.

Swedish UFO Sightings and Analysis

The magazine features an article by Olof Lennart Praesto and Gösta Blomquist discussing the prevalence of UFO sightings in Sweden. It states that approximately 300 UFO observations are made annually, with nearly 100 per day worldwide. Stig Aggestad, head of UFO-Sverige's report center, is presented as a key figure in collecting and analyzing these reports. Aggestad, who is CP-damaged and uses a wheelchair, dedicates his life to this work from his home in Strängnäs and Eskilstuna.

Aggestad explains that about 90% of reported sightings have natural explanations, but the remaining 30 are highly interesting. He notes that the military and defense authorities (Försvarsstaben and FOA) show little interest in UFO phenomena, preferring to focus on underwater sightings. Aggestad wishes the military would adopt terms like 'possible UFO' in their vocabulary.

The Sidensjö Incident

A specific case highlighted is the sighting by pensioner Eugen Näslund in Sidensjö. Näslund reported seeing a strong red light and a red, tractor-like object with no wheels on the ground near his home. He described it as having a 'blast furnace' like glow and observed it for 3.5 to 4 minutes before it disappeared. Aggestad is in the process of evaluating this report.

The Hällefors Incident

Considered one of the most credible Swedish UFO cases, the Hällefors incident from 1981 is discussed. Over a hundred people, including police officers, witnessed a cigar-shaped object, 30-40 meters long, hovering at an altitude of about 75 meters for nearly half an hour. The object had illuminated windows and a red rear light, emitting a humming sound. Police investigations and a report to the Swedish Defense Staff found no military activity in the area at the time. The theory of a smuggled, unregistered airship was considered but dismissed by Aggestad due to the object's localized sighting and lack of subsequent appearances.

UFOs and the Paranormal

Another section reviews the book 'Mysterier, underverk och obegripliga ting' (Mysteries, Wonders, and Incomprehensible Things) by John Michell and Robert J M Rickard, which compiles numerous accounts of strange phenomena. The reviewer expresses skepticism but acknowledges the book's fascination.

The magazine also touches upon the broader UFO phenomenon, mentioning former US President Jimmy Carter's belief in UFOs and astronomer Clyde Tombaugh's sighting of luminous triangles. It references the famous Kenneth Arnold sighting in 1947, which popularized the term 'flying saucer'. The article criticizes the UFO 'bluff industry,' including fake photographs and sensationalized books, while acknowledging that some phenomena might be explainable by natural causes like ball lightning or geological effects.

The Bluestone Walk Encounter

A detailed report from Mrs. Jeans Hingley describes an encounter on January 4, 1979, in Bluestone Walk, Rowley Regis, UK. She recounts seeing three small, silver-green beings with luminous, rainbow-colored wings enter her house. The beings, about one meter tall, had silver-green tunics and appeared to communicate telepathically. They referred to themselves as being 'from the sky' and showed interest in earthly matters, including politics and women's rights. They drank water from glasses that mysteriously became empty and showed curiosity about cigarettes, reacting fearfully when one was lit. The beings then departed in a 'spaceship' that left a deep indentation in the grass. Hingley's husband and their dog, Hobo, were also present during parts of the experience.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently presents UFO sightings as credible phenomena, with UFO-Sverige actively collecting and analyzing reports. There is a clear stance that these events are not mere fabrications and warrant serious investigation. The lack of official interest from military and governmental bodies is a recurring point of criticism. The magazine seems to lean towards the belief that UFOs are real, possibly extraterrestrial or related to unknown phenomena, and that the public should be informed about these occurrences. The Glencoe time-slip story, in particular, bridges the gap between historical events and modern paranormal experiences, suggesting a continuity of unexplained phenomena.

Title: UFO-talesman
Issue: 27
Date: December 10, 1983
Publisher: UFO Sverige
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of UFO-talesman, dated December 10, 1983, focuses on a series of unusual aerial sightings reported in Sweden, particularly around the evening of December 7th. The cover headline, 'Rörigt i luften' (Messy in the air), and the question 'Var det det här flickorna såg?' (Was this what the girls saw?) highlight the central theme of unexplained phenomena.

Witness Accounts and Sightings

The Rättvik Girls' Experience

The issue details an account from two girls in Rättvik, 17-year-old Kristina Waxell and 15-year-old Kristina Larsson, who reported seeing strange light phenomena in the sky around 4:30 PM on Wednesday. The report mentions that 'visitors' had left behind cassette tapes that were later found to be damaged, although they were normal before January 4th. One of the drawings on the cover is attributed to Mrs. Hingley, depicting one of the visitors.

Malung Sighting

Ulla Karlsson from Yttermalung described seeing a 'football-like sphere with a tail' sailing in the northwest direction between 5 and 6 PM on Wednesday. She described the sight as fantastic, though it initially frightened her. The report notes that similar celestial phenomena were observed in other parts of Dalarna that evening.

Other Reports

Daike Gruvnas, from Falun, reported seeing two intensely shining light masses in the southern sky between 7 and 8 AM on Wednesday. Astronomer Jan Schober from Stockholm Observatory suggested this was likely the planet Venus, which is currently visible as a bright morning star.

An ambulance plane traveling between Stockholm and Östersund also reported observing a light phenomenon around the same time as the Rättvik sightings. Additionally, strange observations were reported in Eskilstuna and Skultuna, including a cluster of lights and luminous spheres.

Expert Commentary and Analysis

Stig Aggestad, responsible for the report center at the national organization UFO Sverige, commented on the Rättvik sightings. He stated that while approximately eight out of ten such observations have natural explanations, the remaining cases form the basis of their work. UFO Sverige receives about 20 unexplained cases per year and has 3,300 members nationwide. Aggestad also acknowledged that a strong northern lights display occurred on the evening in question, which could potentially explain some sightings.

Visual Evidence

The issue includes several hand-drawn illustrations:

• A sketch of an orange-colored spaceship.
• A drawing of a visitor, attributed to Mrs. Hingley.
• A depiction of grass marks in a lawn, measuring 3.5 x 1.25 meters, suggesting a landing trace.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO-talesman appears to be dedicated to documenting and exploring recent UFO sightings in Sweden. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, presenting witness testimonies and visual evidence while also acknowledging the possibility of natural explanations like the northern lights or planetary visibility. The inclusion of reports from various locations across Sweden suggests a widespread interest in and observation of these phenomena during the period.