UFO-Nytt - 1994 No 4

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO NYTT
Issue: Number 4, 1994
Publisher: Västerbergslagens UFO-förening
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of UFO NYTT is a membership magazine for the Västerbergslagens UFO-förening, published four times a year. The cover features the title "UFO NYTT" and a graphic depicting a map-like shape with a UFO and stars, along with an illustration of a figure and text in Swedish.

Table of Contents

The issue includes a foreword, several reports, an article titled "UFO en uppenbarelse" (UFO is an Apparition), a report on a UFO over Santa Rosa Bay, a piece on "Klipp från Hessdalen" (Clips from Hessdalen), an article on "UFO i mytologin" (UFO in Mythology), a profile of Gösta "vollenkungen" Carlsson, and a section on "UFO Sverige" (UFO Sweden).

Membership Information

Membership fees are 85 kr per year, or 35 kr for individuals aged 0-16. The association's address is Västerbergslagens UFO-förening, BOX 99, 77723 SMEDJEBACKEN, with a telephone number of 0240/79135 and a postgiro of 16099-4.

Foreword

Gudrun writes the foreword, noting that observation evenings have begun and were enjoyable, though attendance was low. She encourages others to join, mentioning that they discuss UFOs, drink coffee, and have a good time. Lars Andersson provides astronomical knowledge during these evenings. The foreword also appeals for material for the magazine and expresses hope for reader satisfaction and continued membership in 1995. A Christmas and New Year's greeting is extended.

Reports

Report 1: Erik Andersson (Edsby, 1979)
Erik Andersson recounts an experience from a Friday in 1979, around 7:17 PM to 7:20 PM. While stopped after a 30-mile drive near Edsbyn, he observed a bright, clear horizon with sunlit clouds. He saw an object approaching at high speed from the north, moving directly south. The object had a 110-degree inclination and maintained this speed and inclination when it turned 140 degrees and swerved west, disappearing from sight. He described the object as disk-shaped and moving at high velocity. He questioned his own experience, feeling it was unreal, but concluded that "we are not alone in the universe" and that he could not explain the event, emphasizing that he does not fantasize.

Report 2: Ingemar Carlsson (Sunnanlid, Nora, 1994)
Ingemar Carlsson describes an event on January 14, 1994, around 9:15 PM under a clear, new moon sky. While outside his home, he noticed a blinding white light above the treetops, about 500 meters away. He initially thought it was a TV mast, but the "light ball" continued its path high in the sky, similar to a passenger plane. The object moved in a straight line for 1 minute and 30 seconds, passing directly overhead at the same altitude. It then stopped abruptly for 3-4 seconds, remaining intensely bright and silent. It resumed its course eastward in a straight line at the same speed. The light illuminated a thin cloud bank. He recalled a similar event in January 1993, which he did not connect at the time, but now believes there is a connection between the two observations.

Report 3: Tage (Siljansterassen, 1994)
Tage reports seeing a bright star in the east around 11:00 PM on July 28, 1994. The object moved westward, stopped, and then made a slight backward movement. Using binoculars, he observed thread-like, luminous, wavy threads moving within a decimeter's circumference. After about 15 seconds, it vanished. He contacted Dala Airport, who had no information, and found that UFO inquiries in Ludvika had ceased. He describes the experience as fantastic and seeks information from others who may have witnessed similar phenomena.

Article: Universums uppbyggnad fortfarande mysterium (The Structure of the Universe Still a Mystery)

This article, attributed to WASHINGTON (FLT-AP), discusses the ongoing scientific quest to understand the mysterious matter that constitutes 90% of the universe. Two astronomers, John Bahcall and Francesco Paresce, used the Hubble Space Telescope to search for faint red dwarf stars, which were thought to be a likely candidate for this missing matter. However, their findings indicated that red dwarfs are rare, increasing the mystery. The article suggests that scientists must now look for more exotic explanations for the cold, dark matter.

Article: UFOT ÄR EN UPPENBARELSE (UFO is an Apparition)

This article, sourced from "Illustrerad Vetenskap nr 9/94," explores the nature of UFO sightings and religious apparitions. It posits that individuals who report seeing UFOs or experiencing religious visions are not typically mentally ill or abnormal but are in a unique situation that prompts their minds to create these experiences. The article suggests that these phenomena can be expressions of suppressed aspects of a person's personality or serve as substitutes for qualities the individual lacks. It notes that people tend to experience visions consistent with their existing beliefs, citing the example that Buddhists do not report Marian apparitions.

Article: FOTO AV UFO ÖVER SANTA ROSA BUKTEN (Photo of UFO over Santa Rosa Bay)

Translated by Roger Andersson, this article by Bruce Maccabee details an encounter by Ed Walters on January 12, 1994, around 10:20 AM. Walters, working at his office with a view of Santa Rosa Sound, observed a shiny object that was not a typical aircraft. He described its central part as resembling a rugby ball with rounded ends, or a standing cylinder, with a similar shape across the middle, forming a "knubby plus sign." He had previously filmed UFOs in November 1993 and seen another near Pensacola Beach. Determined to get a good photo, Walters used his Canon camera. As he aimed to take a wide-angle shot, he heard a plane approaching. He then saw the plane and the UFO in his camera's viewfinder and took his first photo. He zoomed in and took a second photo as the plane passed the UFO, with two other planes visible higher up. The planes flew slowly, and Walters observed what he believed to be rockets under their wings, with the leader having red wingtips. The planes were dark gray. He notes that such aerial maneuvers by planes are unusual and might attract attention. After the observation, Walters took more photos to finish the film.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO sightings and related phenomena, presenting personal accounts and investigations. There's an underlying theme that these experiences are real and not easily dismissed as fantasy. The inclusion of the article on dark matter suggests an interest in broader scientific mysteries, though the primary focus remains on UFOlogy. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unexplained aerial phenomena, encouraging reader participation and sharing of experiences.

This issue of the MUFON UFO JOURNAL features several articles and reports on unexplained aerial phenomena (UAP), including photographic analysis of a military jet encountering a UFO, extensive documentation of the Hessdalen light phenomena in Norway, and a discussion on the potential link between UFO sightings and ancient folklore.

F-15 Encounter Analysis

The issue presents an analysis of photographs taken of an F-15 fighter jet in proximity to a UFO. The first photo (Photo No. 1) shows the UFO on the left and the approaching F-15 on the right. Photo No. 2 captures the F-15 obscuring the UFO, with the caption suggesting it was "A most amazing coincidence." Further analysis, including the use of models and calculations based on the F-15's known dimensions (approximately 60 ft or 18.3m in length), suggests that the F-15 was likely an F-15 Eagle or possibly an F-18 Hornet. Through triangulation and estimations of distance based on the photos, the analysis concludes that the F-15 was approximately 9,000 ft (2.7 km) from the camera in the first photo and about 490 meters from the UFO when it was closest. The altitude was estimated to be around 390 meters above sea level. The UFO itself is described as having a series of oval "windows" or features, approximately 5 meters high, with solar glitter and a reflective upper surface.

Hessdalen Light Phenomena

A significant portion of the journal is dedicated to the mysterious light phenomena observed in Hessdalen, Norway. The article highlights that the inhabitants of Hessdalen, a small community of about 200 people, have collectively witnessed thousands of UFO sightings. These phenomena, first observed by farmer Jon Aspås in 1942, became particularly intense in 1981, leading researchers to dub it a "formlig invasion." The lights are described as varying in size (20-30 meters in diameter, sometimes up to 50 meters), shape (often elliptical), and behavior, capable of hovering, moving at high speeds, and appearing at different altitudes. Scientific research has been conducted in Hessdalen since 1981, with instruments registering various data. The article mentions that the phenomena are sometimes described as resembling large aircraft or egg-shaped objects with yellow and red lights. Despite the extensive sightings and research, the exact nature of these phenomena remains a mystery, with speculation ranging from ball lightning and electromagnetic discharges to extraterrestrial visits.

UFOs and Folklore

Another section explores the theory that modern UFO sightings and stories are essentially high-tech versions of ancient folklore. It draws parallels between descriptions of flying saucers and old tales of elves and sprites. The article points to the 1947 sighting by pilot Kennet Arnold, which led to the term "flying saucer," and the subsequent official designation of "unidentified flying objects" (UFOs). It suggests that while some believe UFOs are spacecraft from other planets or travelers from the future, religious researchers are increasingly viewing these accounts as modern manifestations of supernatural beliefs.

Research and Witness Accounts

The journal includes interviews and accounts from various individuals involved in UFO research and witnessing. Leif Havik, an author who grew up with UFO speculation, has written a book on the Hessdalen phenomena and is involved in research efforts. He highlights the technical equipment used at a research station in Hessdalen, including cameras, radar, and seismographs. Professor Yoshi Hiko Ohtsuki from Waseda University in Tokyo has also shown interest in the Hessdalen phenomena, investing in further technical equipment. The article also features the testimony of Hjördis Hokstad, who described seeing a strange, long-armed figure emerge from a craft near her home, and photographer Arne P. Thomassen, who captured 81 images of a UFO over a lake.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed analysis of specific UFO sightings, the persistent nature of unexplained aerial phenomena in locations like Hessdalen, and the ongoing scientific and anecdotal investigation into these events. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry, presenting evidence and witness accounts without outright dismissal, while also acknowledging the speculative nature of some interpretations, particularly the connection to folklore. The journal aims to document and analyze these occurrences, encouraging further research and open-mindedness regarding the possibility of extraterrestrial visitation or other unknown phenomena.

This issue of Illustrerad Vetenskap, dated 9/94, presents a diverse range of topics, from the historical reevaluation of ancient civilizations to contemporary discussions on UFO phenomena and astronomical discoveries. The cover prominently features the headline "Mayas inte fredliga" (Mayas not peaceful), suggesting a critical look at the Maya civilization, alongside a smaller article about new moons discovered around Saturn.

Maya Civilization: Beyond the Peaceful Mystic Image

The article "Mayas inte fredliga" challenges the long-held perception of the Maya as a peaceful, ceremonial society. As researchers become more adept at deciphering their complex hieroglyphs, a darker, more modern picture emerges. These inscriptions reveal a civilization deeply involved in warfare, political machinations, and blood sacrifices. The ceremonial sites were, in fact, centers of state formation. Two major city-states, Tikal in present-day Guatemala and Calakmul in present-day Mexico, were particularly powerful militarily and frequently engaged in conflict. Smaller settlements were forced to form alliances with these superpowers. The Maya system eventually collapsed, with Calakmul falling in the 8th century, followed by the decline of the entire civilization around 800 AD. This information is attributed to Science 941104/TT.

New Moons Discovered Around Saturn

An article titled "Nya månar upptäckta" (New moons discovered) reports on findings by two British astronomers, Mitchell Gordon and Carl Murray. Their analysis of imagery from the American space probe Voyager 2 suggests that Saturn, the second-largest planet in the solar system, possesses more moons than previously believed. The analyses indicate the existence of seven additional moons, beyond the 20 already known, orbiting the planet. While the images are not clear enough to determine the exact size of these new celestial bodies, they are estimated to be 10-20 kilometers in diameter. The definitive confirmation is expected in 2004 when the Cassini space probe passes Saturn. This report is sourced from New Scientist 941105/TT.

UFOs and the Shifting Boundaries of the Unknown

A significant portion of the magazine explores the phenomenon of UFOs and their connection to folklore and human psychology. The article "Gränsen till det okända har flyttats" (The border to the unknown has moved) by Mikael Rothstein, with illustrations by Klaus Westh, posits that humans have always projected their fears and curiosities onto the unknown. In ancient times, the forest and burial mounds were seen as mysterious realms inhabited by supernatural beings. Today, with extensive exploration of the natural world, the focus of speculation has shifted to the universe.

The Folklore Connection: Elves, Trolls, and UFO Beings

The article "Alfer, tomtar och troll påminner om ufovarelser" (Elves, trolls, and goblins resemble UFO beings) draws parallels between modern UFO accounts and ancient Swedish folklore. It suggests that the locations where people report encounters with elves and trolls—such as burial mounds and forest edges—are similar to the places where UFO sightings are reported today. The behavior of alleged UFO beings is also compared to descriptions of mythical creatures, noting similarities in their size, demeanor, and communication methods (often telepathic and illogical).

The text discusses how ancient burial mounds, once seen as mystical dwellings, are now understood as archaeological sites. This demystification has led to a shift in where people perceive the supernatural to reside, with the vastness of space now becoming the new frontier for such beliefs.

Gösta Carlsson: Contactee and Inventor

A prominent feature is the story of Gösta Carlsson, a railway worker from Ängelholm, Sweden, who claims to have received all his inventive ideas from extraterrestrials. The article "Närkontakt med ett UFO" (Close encounter with a UFO) details his experiences, including a purported encounter on May 18, 1946, where he witnessed a disc-shaped craft and beings in a forest clearing. Carlsson claims these beings provided him with the inspiration for medical preparations that became world-renowned, making him a millionaire. He describes his early life as a birdwatcher and forest ranger, which led him to the encounter. The article includes a photograph of Carlsson and mentions his creation of a monument at the site of the encounter. He also recounts being abducted and taken aboard a craft, where he learned about the deaths of two extraterrestrials named Luna and Jurion.

Carlsson's experiences are presented as a continuation of a long tradition of human encounters with the unknown, with the modern interpretation being UFOs rather than mythical beings. His inventions, particularly pollen preparations for allergies, gained international recognition.

UFO Sightings and Analysis by UFO-Sverige

The magazine highlights the work of UFO-Sverige, an organization that archives and analyzes UFO reports. Anders Liljegren, an archivist at UFO-Sverige in Norrköping, explains that the archive holds approximately 13,000 documented UFO reports from Sweden, making it one of the largest in the world. The organization receives contributions from the public as well as official sources. Liljegren notes that UFOs come in various shapes and forms, not just the stereotypical flying saucer. The article also mentions that Dalarna and Småland are considered UFO hotspots in Sweden, with different UFO shapes often associated with distinct sounds.

Clas Svahn, a journalist for Dagens Nyheter and head of UFO-Sverige, is presented as a respected figure in the UFO community due to his objective and critical approach. He states that 95% of reported UFO sightings have natural explanations, but the remaining 5% are of interest. These intriguing cases might involve secret military experiments, unknown natural phenomena, or more exotic possibilities. Svahn admits that after 20 years of studying UFOs, he is more certain than ever that unknown objects are indeed present in Swedish airspace.

Several notable UFO photographs are featured, including:

• Mora, Sweden, 1952: A photograph taken by Nils Frost, described as the best Swedish UFO picture, showing a strange light in the sky.
• McMinnville, USA, 1950: A widely published image of a silver, disc-shaped object, though its authenticity has been debated.
• Ekerö, Sweden, 1993: Images captured by a flight attendant showing two bright, moving lights near the moon.

Natural Explanations and the Unexplained

Clas Svahn emphasizes that UFO-Sverige remains open to all explanations. The organization collaborates with official bodies like Foa, Försvarsstaben (Swedish Defence Staff), and SMHI (Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute). While most sightings are explained by conventional means such as rockets, planets, balloons, or aircraft, Svahn acknowledges the intriguing nature of the unexplained cases.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the theme of the unknown and humanity's attempts to understand it, whether through historical interpretation, scientific inquiry, or the investigation of anomalous phenomena like UFOs. There's a recurring motif of re-evaluating past beliefs and discoveries in light of new information. The magazine adopts an investigative and analytical stance, presenting both factual accounts and speculative theories while maintaining a degree of critical assessment, particularly in the UFO-related articles. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, seeking to demystify the unknown while acknowledging the persistent presence of unexplained events and phenomena.