UFO-Nytt - 1993 No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO-nytt
Issue: 1
Volume: 1993
Issue Date: January 1993
Publisher: Västerbergslagens UFO-förening
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
Price: 85 SEK (35 SEK for under 16)

This issue of UFO-nytt, the magazine for the Västerbergslagens UFO-förening, is dedicated to exploring various aspects of UFO phenomena, research, and related mysteries. It features articles that question common UFO beliefs, delve into specific historical cases, and report on recent sightings and investigations.

Editorial and Contents

The magazine opens with a foreword reflecting on the end of 1992 and the organization's activities, including positive media attention and invitations for lectures. It notes a shift in UFOlogy towards parapsychological phenomena, a trend some within the organization find questionable for a UFO-focused group. The foreword also touches upon the nature of scientific inquiry and the importance of diverse interests within the field.

The table of contents lists various sections, including 'Foreword, article', 'Animal mutilations', 'Investigation grounds', 'Solving the Roswell Case', 'Clippings', 'Moonrise and moonset etc.', 'From Norway', and 'UFOs - is there an explanation?'.

"Flying Saucers" - Just a Myth?

An article titled '"Saucers" in the article on page 3... "No UFO expert"' by Bernt Berglund from Ludvika, presented at a meeting of the Västerbergslagens UFO-förening, challenges the notion of 'flying saucers'. Berglund, a retired postman with extensive UFO research experience since 1947, cites Frank Scully's 1947 book and Kenneth Arnold's sighting. He references Arthur C. Clarke's 'Mysterious World' and notes that Arnold described the objects' flight by comparing it to a teacup skipping across water. Berglund points out that while the term 'flying saucer' became popular, J. Allen Hynek's calculations suggest Arnold's estimates of size and distance might be incorrect, and the objects may not have flown as fast as perceived. Berglund also mentions Hans Van Kampen's conclusion that Arnold might have seen a formation of F-84 Thunder Jets, which were a military secret at the time. Berglund clarifies that he is not a UFO expert himself but works within the organization and shares information from books. He emphasizes that he does not dismiss the existence of UFOs but rather questions the specific 'flying saucer' interpretation.

UFOlogy and Parapsychology

Gudrun Andersson, chair of the Västerbergslagens UFO-förening, contributes to the discussion, noting the shift in UFOlogy towards parapsychology. She expresses a personal lack of interest in parapsychology, questioning the purpose of a UFO organization if the focus moves away from aerial phenomena. Andersson suggests that if parapsychology is the main interest, joining existing parapsychology organizations might be more efficient. She proposes dividing theories into different groups for individual research and annual reporting. She also reflects on her own journey into UFOlogy, starting with astronomy and questioning humanity's place in the universe, but clarifies that this does not necessarily mean 'flying saucers'. She highlights that current technology is primitive compared to what the future might hold and that many people lose interest due to a lack of tangible evidence or measurement tools.

Andersson also states that groups form UFO SVERIGE and decide their own theories. She believes that if she suspected a connection to geology, she would join a geology association. She expresses a hope for an open-minded approach in 1993.

Söderbärke Meeting Report

A report from a meeting in Söderbärke details Bernt Berglund's presentation where he stated that 'flying saucers' do not exist, but many other unexplained aerial phenomena do. The meeting, attended by about 50 people, included a screening of a video on unexplained aerial phenomena. Berglund's research, supported by UFO researcher Frank Schuller, suggests that UFO research requires knowledge in astronomy, astrology, biology, archaeology, geology, chemistry, religion, and parapsychology.

The report also mentions Gudrun Andersson's role as the UFO log and chair, leading a Q&A session. She explains that the organization's primary task is to collect and present unexplained aerial phenomena from the public, assuring anonymity. Andersson notes that out of 600 reports received, only two were considered serious, indicating the rarity of truly significant UFO sightings. She concludes that while unexplained phenomena are abundant, the chance of seeing a UFO in one's lifetime is minimal.

Torsten Wennsten reports on exciting sightings in the Borlänge-Falun area in January 1985. He also notes the increasing interest in UFOs as a reflection of people seeking different kinds of truths in science, religion, and research.

Animal Mutilations

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the phenomenon of animal mutilations, particularly in the US. The article '1992 INCREASE IN ANIMAL SLAUGHTER MARKEDLY' details cases from Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri between December 1991 and January 1992. Witnesses reported seeing lights and objects in the sky preceding the discovery of mutilated animals. Sheriff Archie Yeasick of Grant Country expressed concern over the lack of tracks around the enclosures. The article references the case of a horse named Lady in San Louis Valley, Colorado, in September 1967, which was found disemboweled with no footprints nearby. Local residents reported seeing small 'jet planes' flying low. The article connects these events to potential UFO involvement.

Investigating for his documentary 'A Strange Harvest' in 1979, the author found witness reports of orange glowing objects hovering over sites where mutilated animals were later discovered. These objects were described as football-field sized and accompanied by 'clusters of lights' from 'silent helicopters'. The reports also mention a strange force and non-earthly beings.

Further details are provided on specific cases, including one in Oregon in 1990 where high heat was evident, and another in Kansas in February 1992, with similar findings. Reports from Calumet, Oklahoma, on February 11, 1992, describe the mutilation of a Brahma heifer, including the removal of its tongue, genitals, and anus with no blood. A subsequent sighting by Travis Dean and his girlfriend involved a bright light, described as '10 times brighter than a star', with multi-colored blinking lights. The object ascended and followed them, later returning after they attempted to approach it.

Investigation Group Activities

The 'Undersökningsgruppen' (Investigation Group) reports on a recent UFO sighting on December 27, 1992. A couple walking their dog witnessed a large, oblong green object with a red ball moving across the sky. The object, observed for about 8-9 seconds, moved from southeast to northeast. Despite the clear sighting, no reports were filed with the central reporting agency. The following morning, another witness reported a large green object with a long tail shining brightly over Stimmerbo. The group questions why more reports were not filed if the phenomenon was widely visible in the Dalarna region, suggesting a potential issue with reporting or visibility. They emphasize the need to actively inform the public about their existence.

Solving the Roswell Case

An article titled 'SOLVING THE ROSWELL CASE' by Ole Jonny Braenne, translated by Gudrun Andersson, provides an overview of the Roswell incident and its coverage in books over the past 12 years. Braenne, who has access to American UFO literature, highlights the growing importance of the July 1947 event for UFO researchers worldwide. The article mentions five books published on the incident, including 'The Roswell Incident' by Charles Berlitz & William L. Moore, 'UFO Crash At Roswell' by Kevin Randle and Ronald Schmitt, and 'The Roswell Report: A Historical Perspective' by CUFOS. It also references 'The Plains of San Augustin Controversy, June 1947' by CUFOS and FUFOR, and 'Crash at Corona' by Stanton T. Friedman & Don Berliner.

The article notes that the testimonies of Gerald Anderson and Betty Barnett are difficult to verify, as none of the 150 people involved could confirm their stories. Gerald Anderson, who was reportedly five years old at the time, claimed to have seen a disc-shaped object near San Augustin. Betty Barnett claimed her deceased husband, Barney, witnessed an object near San Augustin and saw a group of archaeologists present. The 150 individuals, many directly involved with the wreckage, agreed that 'something' crashed on Mac Brazel's ranch and was removed by the RAAF.

The article discusses alternative explanations for the Roswell crash, including weather balloons, Skyhook balloons, an A-bomb test, a Japanese balloon bomb, and a V-2 rocket. However, it points out that Mac Brazel found these explanations inconsistent with what he observed. The sheer amount of material scattered over a large area required 50-60 men for 2-3 days to collect, ruling out simpler explanations. The article concludes that the object that crashed 45 years ago was something unknown.

Annual Meeting Announcement

The magazine concludes with an announcement for the annual meeting of the Västerbergslagens UFO-förening, scheduled for Saturday, February 27th, at 6:00 PM in Stimmerbo Bygdegård, outside Smedjebacken. Members and their partners are invited. A dinner will be served after the meeting, followed by coffee. Attendees are asked to bring their own drinks. The event will also include a lottery and music. Members are requested to RSVP in writing or by calling Gudrun (0240-79135) or Birgitta (0240-23563) as the number of attendees needs to be confirmed for catering. The announcement ends with a warm welcome and an encouragement for strong attendance and good humor.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of UFO-nytt include the questioning of traditional 'flying saucer' narratives, the detailed reporting of animal mutilations, the historical analysis of the Roswell incident, and the reporting of contemporary UFO sightings in Sweden. The editorial stance, as expressed by Gudrun Andersson and Bernt Berglund, appears to be one of critical inquiry, emphasizing the need for rigorous investigation and a focus on unexplained phenomena rather than speculative theories like parapsychology, while still acknowledging the vastness of the unknown in the universe. The magazine aims to be a serious platform for UFOlogy, providing information and fostering discussion among its members.

This issue of the magazine "UFO" from 1993, with the cover headline "Finns det någon därute?" (Is anyone out there?), explores various aspects of astronomy, space, and unidentified flying objects (UFOs). The magazine is published in Swedish and appears to be from Sweden, with a price of 25:-

Articles and Content

"Finns det någon därute?" (Is anyone out there?)

This lead article discusses the fundamental questions about the universe, such as whether space ends and if there is life on other planets. It highlights the requirements for life, such as an atmosphere and a solvent like water, and discusses the challenges of planetary seasons and day lengths. The article mentions double stars as potentially having good planetary systems and notes that billions of solar systems exist in our galaxy. Astronomer Tom Callen from the Naturhistoriska Riksmuseet is interviewed, discussing his work with the planetarium show "Ensam i rymden?" (Alone in space?). He addresses the lack of radio contact, suggesting that intelligent civilizations might use different technologies or not be interested in radio signals. Callen also mentions that thirty-five light-years is a good distance for potential contact, but the time delay for communication is significant. He dismisses the possibility of life on Jupiter due to radioactivity but points to evidence of past water and fossils on Mars, suggesting Earth might be unique in having life within our solar system.

"Utspacead?"

This short piece humorously touches upon the term "outspaced" and its association with space enthusiasts, contrasting it with astrology.

"Sittplats till universum i nya planetariet:"

This section announces the opening of the Naturhistoriska Riksmuseet's new, modern omnitheater with a planetarium in Stockholm on October 16th. The facility will use advanced computer technology to showcase space phenomena, including historical views of the cosmos, other planets, and journeys through space. It will feature omnimax films, not limited to space, with an example being a Rolling Stones concert. Yvonne Edenmark from the museum is quoted. The planetarium also plans to screen "Aniara."

Astronomical Data Tables

Pages 3 and 4 contain detailed tables listing the moon's rise and set times, phases, and directions for January, February, March, and April 1993, for Smedjebacken (Latitud 60°8′N, Longitud 15°25′0). These tables also indicate the visibility of planets like Mars, Jupiter, Venus, and Mercury in relation to the moon.

"Meteorskurar:"

A brief section lists meteor showers: Kvadrantiderna, Virginiderna, and Lyriderna.

"Per-Erik Heden" column

This section provides advice on understanding planetary movements and visibility using the moon's position as a reference. It explains how to interpret underlinings for planets rising later or setting earlier than the moon. It also notes the approximate time a planet or the moon is highest in the south.

"BILDEKALER 25:-"

An advertisement for self-adhesive decals, priced at 25:-, with yellow text on a black background, measuring 40 x 10 cm. Instructions are provided on how to order them via postgiro.

"RAPPORTNYTT FRÅN GRANNLANDET NORGE."

This section compiles UFO reports from Norway:

• Skjåk: On August 30th, two men observed a dark, disk-shaped craft that moved towards them, disappeared behind clouds, reappeared, and then proceeded southeast. It was silent and estimated to be slightly smaller than the moon.
• Hammarøy: On September 7th, a bright, flat light, as wide as the moon, was seen. It pulsed, then disappeared. The estimated distance was 15-20 miles.
• Eksingdalen i Hordaland: On September 21st, a family reported a strange light phenomenon after their pets became agitated. A red light was observed, described as sharp, yellowish-white, and pulsing. A track was found under the window.

"UFO Norge redogör för rapporter från den 15 maj-15 nov.1992."

This section summarizes UFO reports collected by UFO Norge. It also includes information on subscribing to the UFO Norge magazine, costing 80 SEK per year, with a postgiro number and address provided.

"Kalle & Hobbe" comic strip

A comic strip about space, featuring characters Spiff and Hobbe, and a collision of planets.

"Bilderna i Nazca – ett av världens olösta mysterier"

This article discusses the mysterious geoglyphs in Nazca, Peru, including a giant hummingbird, condor, and monkey. It mentions theories that they are part of an astronomical calendar, signals to gods, or traces of extraterrestrials.

"Oförklarliga ljud från eldkulor på himlen"

This piece describes eyewitness accounts of strange sounds from fireballs moving across the sky at high speeds. It notes the paradox that the sound should reach observers long after the fireball has disappeared due to the speed difference between light and sound.

"Rymdkonversation:"

This section offers conversation starters for amateur astronomers about the solar system, including facts about Venus and Mars, and the order of the planets.

"Oidentifierade flygande föremål"

This article details a specific UFO incident from December 29, 1980, involving Betty Cash and Vickie Landrum, who reported being exposed to heat, smoke, and flames from a large, diamond-shaped object near Huffman, Texas. They claimed to have suffered health problems afterward and sued the US government.

"Vad är det?"

This section discusses the growing public interest in UFOs, fueled by media reports. It references Philip J. Klass's book "UFOs—The Public Deceived" and Edward Dolnik's article "Närkontakter" (Close Encounters), which links the increase in UFO reports to deep-seated doomsday fears surrounding the approaching year 2000. Dolnik's research indicates that a significant percentage of American academics believe in extraterrestrial life.

The article also touches upon reports of alien encounters, including alleged abductions and biological experiments. It mentions a case in Switzerland where a man presented numerous photographs and physical evidence of UFOs, which were examined by professionals. Another case from Florida in 1989 describes a man's close encounter with a grey alien.

"UFO i forntid och i nutid"

This section explores historical accounts of UFO sightings, dating back to ancient Egypt, Native American legends, and ancient Rome. It mentions Aztec beliefs about the god Quetzalcoatl arriving in a spaceship. It also covers reports from Basel and Nürnberg in 1561 and 1566, and the "great airship" sightings in the United States in 1896 and 1897, noting the lack of known airship technology at the time.

"Förenta staternas regering utreder"

This article details the US government's early investigations into UFOs. It describes Project Sign, initiated in 1948, and the subsequent Project Grudge, following the death of pilot Captain Thomas Mantell. The article highlights the role of Donald E. Keyhoe's article in "True" magazine in popularizing the term "flying saucers." It also mentions the impact of later articles debunking UFO reports and the subsequent lull in sightings until 1952, a year of intense UFO activity that led to the establishment of "Project Blue Book."

"1952 – ufoobservationernas år"

This section focuses on the surge of UFO reports in 1952, with 1,501 sightings recorded. It details the creation of "Project Blue Book" and describes significant observations, including those over Washington D.C. where unidentified objects were tracked by radar and visually confirmed, evading jet planes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the mystery of UFOs and extraterrestrial life, presenting both contemporary reports and historical accounts. There is a clear interest in scientific explanations, as evidenced by the astronomical data and the discussion of scientific investigations. However, the inclusion of anecdotal evidence, witness testimonies, and historical mysteries suggests an open-minded approach to the subject matter. The magazine seems to aim at informing its readers about UFO phenomena, historical context, and ongoing investigations, while also providing practical information like astronomical data and subscription details. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into unexplained aerial phenomena, acknowledging both the scientific and the more speculative aspects of the topic.

This issue of "UFO" (published by Vakna! in December 1988, issue 24) delves into the scientific and skeptical perspectives on unidentified flying objects (UFOs). The cover asks, "Is there any explanation?" and the content explores various theories and investigations into the phenomenon.

The Condon Report and Scientific Skepticism

The issue begins by referencing the University of Colorado's UFO project, led by physicist Dr. Edward U. Condon. The 1969 Condon Report concluded that studies of UFO reports over the preceding 21 years had not yielded any evidence to change the researchers' views, suggesting further investigation was not scientifically justifiable. This report, according to the article, put an end to the official engagement with UFO research in the United States, though public interest persisted.

Skeptics like the late Dr. Donald H. Menzel, an astronomer at Harvard University, and Philip Klass, a former scientific editor for Aviation Week, are presented as proponents of the view that UFOs are actually "IFOs" (Identified Flying Objects). They argue that upon closer examination, all UFOs are identifiable phenomena or objects, such as weather balloons, advertising planes, helicopters, meteors, or sundogs (parhelia). Klass suggests that UFOs can be natural phenomena or misidentifications, including ball lightning or plasma balls. However, critics point out that plasma accumulations, being highly ionized gases, typically have a very short lifespan, making them unlikely explanations for many sightings.

Philip Klass further explains that people confronted with sudden, unexpected events may be unreliable in their descriptions. He believes that the lack of concrete evidence for UFOs is partly due to the fact that the sky presents an endless variety of peculiar phenomena, leading to misinterpretations. He also notes that as radar systems have become more sophisticated in identifying aircraft, radar observations of UFOs have approached zero, suggesting that if UFOs existed, modern radar should detect more of them.

Terence Hines, author of "Pseudoscience and the Paranormal," is quoted stating that thorough investigations have revealed that even impressive UFO reports have simple, natural explanations. He asserts that eyewitness accounts are characterized by a near-complete lack of credibility, often influenced by conscious or unconscious biases and the expectation of what a UFO should look like.

Theories of Extraterrestrial and Other Origins

Despite the skeptical viewpoints, the article acknowledges the enduring public interest in UFOs. One popular theory posits that UFOs are connected to intelligent beings from outer space. Dr. James McCampbell was a prominent advocate of this idea, warning about the increasing presence of "super-intelligent extraterrestrial beings" in Earth's vicinity. Major Donald E. Keyhoe, a retired marine officer and writer, is credited with popularizing the idea of UFOs as alien spaceships, cautioning that their arrival on Earth could cause widespread fear and hysteria.

Another theory suggests that UFOs are actually higher-order beings inhabiting a "parallel universe." These beings, it is theorized, can manipulate human minds and may be connected to various religious movements, miracles, angels, ghosts, and poltergeists, according to Ronald D. Story in "UFO and the Limits of Science."

The Search for Evidence and Occult Connections

The article questions whether UFOs can be identified, noting that while some researchers believe all UFOs are natural phenomena, others propose unique theories. A 1970 article in "Vakna!" suggested that most UFO reports stem from misidentifications of planets, airplanes, balloons, meteors, or mirages, a conclusion also reached by "Project Blue Book." The article highlights how physical and psychological distortions can lead to misinterpretations of familiar objects seen under unusual circumstances.

Despite the official Condon Report and the decline in UFO reports, interest remains high, partly fueled by a "deep-rooted doomsday fear" associated with the approaching year 2000. The issue also touches upon the idea that governments may have ignored or suppressed evidence of UFOs. Timothy Good, in "Above Top Secret," claims to have found evidence of a "monumental cover-up" regarding UFOs. Gary Kinder's book "Light Years" explores what evidence would be needed to convince authorities of UFO existence, questioning if a UFO landing at the Pentagon or detection by military radar would suffice.

Professor Hines, however, argues that 997 pages of declassified UFO documents from 1949-1979 do not reveal any government cover-ups. He describes the documents as showing moderate interest in the phenomenon but skepticism towards the extraterrestrial hypothesis, refuting claims that the government has hidden the "truth" about UFOs.

Occultism and UFOs

The article then explores the potential link between UFO experiences and occultism. John H. Andrews, in "The Extraterrestrials and Their Reality," suggests similarities between UFO experiences and spiritualism. He thanks "four space people" who shared their experiences and numerous psychics and channels who aided his experiments, as well as "extraterrestrial beings" for their "informative messages." Andrews claims to have received messages from these beings, which include ideas such as the non-existence of death, the absence of good and evil, and the reliability of creation, evolution, and reincarnation. He states that these ETs are not here to control but to guide humanity through Earth's impending catastrophic changes.

The article contrasts these messages with biblical teachings, referencing angels and demons. It notes that the Bible speaks of obedient and disobedient angels, with Satan using his demon angels to mislead humanity with various philosophies and cults that distract from the message of God's heavenly kingdom. The text warns against being misled by "deceptive inspired utterances and teachings of demons," as mentioned by the Apostle Paul.

Conclusion and Recurring Themes

The issue concludes by advising Christians not to waste their time studying such phenomena but to focus on obeying the heavenly angel's command to "fear God and give him glory" because the hour of his judgment has come. The article implies that while many UFO observations can be explained scientifically, some may involve mental or psychological experiences. It reiterates the lack of concrete, verifiable evidence, such as authentic photographs or wreckage, and highlights the role of misinterpretation, deception, and hysteria in the UFO phenomenon. The overall stance leans heavily towards skepticism, emphasizing natural explanations and the unreliability of anecdotal evidence, while acknowledging the persistent public fascination with the subject.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are scientific skepticism towards UFOs, the analysis of eyewitness accounts, the exploration of alternative theories (including extraterrestrial and occult origins), and the critique of pseudoscientific claims. The editorial stance is predominantly skeptical, favoring rational and scientific explanations over extraordinary claims, while acknowledging the enduring public interest and the psychological aspects of belief in UFOs. The magazine presents a balanced view by including both skeptical arguments and the theories proposed by UFO proponents, ultimately leaning towards the former by emphasizing the lack of concrete evidence for extraterrestrial visitation.