UFO-Nytt - 1996 No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO NYTT
Issue: 1
Year: 1996
Publisher: Västerbergslagens UFO förening

This issue of UFO NYTT, published by the Västerbergslagens UFO Association, serves as a communication channel for its members, featuring a mix of UFO reports, paranormal discussions, astronomical news, and archaeological interpretations. The magazine aims to inform and engage its readership on topics related to unexplained phenomena.

Table of Contents

The issue includes a detailed table of contents, outlining the various articles and sections:

• Förord (Foreword): An introduction from the association, inviting members to the annual meeting and discussing the magazine's publication.
• Klipp (Clips): Various news clippings.
• Inkomna UFOrapporter (Received UFO Reports): A section dedicated to reader-submitted UFO sightings.
• Projekt Hessdalen (Hessdalen Project): Information about the ongoing investigation in Hessdalen.
• Saxat (Snipped): Miscellaneous articles.
• UFO i Norge (UFO in Norway): A look at UFO phenomena in Norway.
• Rotation motverkar tyngdkraften (Rotation Counteracts Gravity): An article exploring this concept.
• UFO, fantasi & verklighet (UFO, Fantasy & Reality): A discussion on the nature of UFO phenomena.
• Liv på Mars (Life on Mars): An exploration of the possibility of life on Mars.

Editorial and Membership Information

The magazine is published four times a year for the members of the Västerbergslagens UFO förening. The membership fee for 1996 is 100 SEK, with a reduced rate of 35 SEK for members under 16. The association's address is Västerbergslagens UFOförening, box 99, 77723 Smedjebacken, and their telephone number is 0240/79135. An annual meeting is announced for Monday, March 25th at 7:00 PM in the ABF conference hall at Storgatan 19, 4th floor, Ludvika.

Cover Story: Beliefs in Sweden

The main cover story, "Fler tror på utomjordingar och spöken än på en kristen Gud" (More believe in aliens and ghosts than in a Christian God), reports on a study by Uppsala researcher fil. dr. Ulf Sjödins. The study, detailed in his book "En skola - flera världar" (A School - Several Worlds), reveals that 25% of adult Swedes believe aliens visit Earth, and 90% believe in supernatural experiences, while only about 15% believe in a personal God. Sjödins notes that the belief in the occult is not limited to youth, with a significant portion of adults sharing these beliefs. He attributes this trend partly to the decline of authority figures in both the church and science, leaving a void in understanding reality and the supernatural. The study also found that education does not necessarily lead to critical thinking, as previously assumed. Comparing current findings with a 1970s study, Sjödins observed a significant increase in belief in the supernatural. For instance, belief in omens and prophetic dreams rose from approximately 40% to include 45% who answered 'yes, maybe'. Belief in contact with the deceased also increased from 21% to 32% among adults.

UFO Reports and Investigations

Several detailed UFO sighting reports are presented, investigated by field researchers like Gudrun Andersson.

• Lindesberg (November 12, 1995): Helene Bergqvist reported seeing a yellow-white light point that moved erratically, ascended at high speed, and then split into three points that disappeared rapidly. The object was described as having a smaller star-like object following it, and at one point, three points (one large, two small) were observed moving north at high speed.
• Smedjebacken (December 14, 1995): An anonymous witness saw an enormous, strong light above Ringvägen. Later, the object appeared to be triangular with rounded edges, possibly with colored lights. Another witness, Margit Bergqvist, from Smedjebacken on the same date, described seeing a light that moved towards her, followed by an object that detached, resembling headlights. She later observed a large, silver-colored, diamond-shaped surface with antennas.
• Furudal (January 21, 1996): Tommy Källerman reported seeing a bright, white object that moved rapidly, exhibiting sharp turns and emitting star-like sparks. The object's brightness was estimated to be 3-4 times that of Venus, and it was observed at an altitude of approximately 500 meters. It moved systematically, searching sectors, and eventually disappeared. His mother also witnessed the object.

These reports include witness testimonies, times, locations, and descriptions of the phenomena, along with the field researcher's notes and any preliminary checks made (e.g., with the local airport).

Archaeological Interpretations: Chinese Jade Sarcophagi

An article discusses the discovery of 2,100-year-old jade sarcophagi in China, belonging to Prince Liu Sheng and Princess Dou Wan. While Chinese archaeologists identified them as traditional burial artifacts, some Western UFO enthusiasts interpreted the sarcophagi's design, particularly the suits worn by the deceased, as resembling spacesuits. They suggested this as evidence of extraterrestrial visitation in ancient China. However, archaeologists explained that the 'neck supports' were likely headrests, and the use of jade and gold thread reflected the high status of the deceased during the Han Dynasty.

Theoretical Physics: Time Dilation

"Tiden i ett rymdskepp" (Time on a Spaceship) explores the concept of time dilation as described by Einstein's special theory of relativity. It posits that if a spaceship could travel at near light speed, time would pass much slower for the crew compared to those on Earth. For example, a journey to the Andromeda galaxy, which is 2.2 million light-years away, could be experienced as only 2.2 years for the spaceship's occupants.

Astronomy: Hubble's Discoveries and Solar System Structure

"Förbluffande rymdbilder" (Astonishing Space Images) reports on the groundbreaking discoveries made by the Hubble Space Telescope. By observing a seemingly empty point in the universe for ten days, astronomers detected between 1,500 and 2,000 galaxies, suggesting that the universe contains far more galaxies than previously estimated, possibly up to 50 billion, each with 50-100 billion stars. The article also touches upon the typical structure of solar systems, noting that on average, a solar system has 13.5 planets, with zones for rocky planets and icy gas giants. Our solar system, with nine planets, is slightly below average.

Opinion Piece: Anti-Racism

An opinion piece titled "Förklara det här, rasister" (Explain this, racists) by Daniel Svensson argues against racism by highlighting the African origins of humanity and the scientific fact that the 'white race' is a spectrum of colors when light is refracted. The author challenges racists to explain this phenomenon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of unexplained phenomena, scientific inquiry, and personal belief. It presents witness accounts of UFO sightings, often with detailed investigative notes, alongside articles on astronomy and theoretical physics. The editorial stance appears to be open to exploring unconventional ideas while also grounding discussions in scientific and archaeological findings, as seen in the contrasting interpretations of the Chinese sarcophagi and the discussion of relativity. The publication also engages with social issues, as evidenced by the anti-racism piece. The overall tone is informative and investigative, aiming to provide members with a comprehensive overview of topics within the UFO and paranormal community.

This issue of the magazine, dated Tuesday, January 9, 1996, features a prominent article on "PROJEKT HESSDALEN" by Erling Strand of UFO NORGE. The magazine's cover headline is "Förbryllande ljusfenomen" (Bewildering light phenomena), and it includes a price of '10.' and issue number '10' on volume '12'. The publisher is identified as UFO NORGE, and the country of publication is Norway, with the original language being Swedish.

Projekt Hessdalen: An Overview

The article provides a resume of events related to "PROJEKT HESSDALEN" over the past 12 years, intended for new readers and as a refresher for those following the phenomenon. The project was developed by a freelance group led by Erling Strand, involving several prominent UFO researchers. Its primary objective was to investigate the "unknown light phenomena" frequently observed in Hessdalen since December 1981.

Between 1981 and 1985, there were numerous observations of these light phenomena. In the subsequent 8-10 years, activity decreased but continued sporadically. These phenomena have been referred to as UFOs, but to avoid misinterpretation, scientists researching the subject have named it the "Hessdalen phenomenon" (H.P.). As of the article's writing, no definitive and reliable explanation has been found.

Hessdalen, located 30 km northwest of Rörås, is highlighted as a place where these phenomena are observed more often than in other locations worldwide. The project group organized field actions in Hessdalen during the winters of 1984-85, utilizing various instruments and recording multiple observations. A report in English was published in 1985.

The Hessdalen phenomenon garnered significant attention, being presented and discussed at scientific conferences and in various media, including magazines, newspapers, radio, and TV. In March 1994, an international team of 27 scientists from 8 countries was assembled. Plans are also in place to install instruments for long-term monitoring in Hessdalen to aid further research.

Background and Characteristics of the Hessdalen Phenomenon

The phenomenon is typically observed as a light source, sometimes intense enough to illuminate entire areas. The light sources vary in diameter from 1 cm to several meters and can be elliptical, pistol-shaped, or round. The duration of activity ranges from fractions of a second to several hours. The lights can hover motionless for minutes before moving rapidly or spinning. They are often seen near the ground, appearing to follow terrain features. Observers have reported them hovering on hillsides before descending into the valley and disappearing. The Hessdalen phenomenon can also move at high speeds, with radar measurements indicating speeds up to 30,000 km/h.

The name "Hessdalen phenomenon" originates from the Hessdalen valley, a 10-12 km long valley with approximately 200 inhabitants, located in Sörtröndelag. The valley is situated at an altitude of 600-700 meters, flanked by mountains reaching 1000-1100 meters. While the phenomenon is observed globally, Hessdalen is noted as a "UFO window" where it appeared with unusual frequency and duration, approximately 3-4 years, starting in December 1981 and continuing until 1985. During its peak, it was observed up to twice daily or 7-9 times weekly, making Hessdalen unique in this regard. The phenomenon continues, though less intensely.

Previous Investigations and Scientific Interest

It took two years of extensive observations in Hessdalen for scientists to become interested. The first Hessdal project began in 1983 with five individuals. The project was presented at an international congress in England in August 1983, leading to a project plan developed in the autumn of 1983. Participants included representatives from the Swedish Defence Research Agency and university researchers. The plan was presented and discussed with the local population in Hessdalen on November 19, 1983, who welcomed the initiative.

Despite numerous theories from physicists, a definitive explanation for the light phenomena remains elusive. The lack of objective instrumental registration in areas where the phenomena occur has made it difficult for theorists to gather sufficient data for hypotheses. Hessdalen's uniqueness lies in the high probability of witnessing such phenomena.

Meteorite Impact or Ground Fire at Blåbärsåsen?

This section reports on an unusual event near Blåbärsåsen in Sweden, where Sixten Bergström encountered a pillar of smoke near his car. Investigating further, he discovered a crater with glowing stones and a strong gas smell. The heat was so intense that a wooden stick caught fire immediately upon contact with the crater's contents. Bergström theorizes a meteorite impact, as no human activity was present. He connects this to sightings of celestial bodies in the Dalfors and Amungen areas that moved towards Orsa. Rescue Chief Rune Daniels stated that ground fires can persist as long as there is oxygen and combustible material, potentially following ground fissures or tree roots. The possibility of a ground fire since the hunting season, a meteorite impact, or even a UFO are considered, but the cause remains uncertain.

Anthropology: One Ancestor for Modern Humans

A new skull discovery in Ethiopia, dated 2.8 million years old, supports the theory that all later human ancestors originated from the species Australopithecus afarensis. This species became known in 1974 with the discovery of the famous "Lucy" skeleton. Previously, anthropologists debated whether A. afarensis represented one species or multiple, based on size differences in skeletal remains. The new skull, being nearly complete, provides crucial evidence, leading researchers to conclude that Lucy and her contemporaries were a single species and the common ancestor of all later human types.

Ytterbium: A Rare Earth Metal

Ytterbium is a rare earth metal with limited practical applications. A radioactive isotope emits gamma radiation similar to X-rays and has been used in areas without electricity. Discovered in 1878 by Jean-Charles Galissard de Marignac, metallic ytterbium was first produced in 1937 and refined in 1953. Ytterbium is one of four elements named after Ytterby, Sweden. The metal exhibits interesting variations in electrical resistance under pressure. The article also notes its atomic number (70), atomic weight (173.04), melting point (824°C), boiling point (1193°C), and density (7.0).

UFO Reports from Mandal, Norway

This section compiles UFO reports from the Mandal archipelago. Agneta Kjellin reported seeing a yellow-white light from a boat in a bay in the autumn of 1992 or 1993. Later, on July 20, 1995, five people in Mandal witnessed a white-pink and yellowish-white light with orange hues, believed to be from a large object, and a bright object moving over the water. The phenomena lasted about an hour, and the following day, a TV experienced self-initiated power cycles.

Another report from August 19, 1995, describes a powerful light sweeping back and forth, illuminating a cabin. Witnesses initially thought it was a large boat, but upon closer inspection with binoculars, it was identified as a UFO. This object, described as oval with a bulge on top, emitted a strong light. Subsequently, two red cerise-colored "crafts" appeared, moving at high speed and flashing lights. These increased to four. The main "ship" disappeared suddenly, baffling the witnesses. The article notes that the witnesses are intelligent and balanced individuals who were not previously interested in the supernatural.

UFO - Not a Matter of Belief

This opinion piece argues that UFOs are not a matter of belief but of observation. It states that 5-10% of human observations cannot be naturally explained by science. The author suggests that UFOs could be unknown natural phenomena, secret military aircraft, or even interdimensional travelers. The existence of the phenomenon itself is not in doubt, and it is considered arrogant to assume humans understand everything about nature and the universe.

Bewildering Light Phenomena in Ludvika

Residents of Ludvika have reported a blinking light in the night sky above Högberget. Gudrun Andersson of UFO-Bergsdalens Undersökningsgrupp suggests it is likely Venus, attributing the bright and multi-colored appearance to clear, cold air. She notes that other celestial bodies like Sirius, Saturn, and Mercury have also been clearly visible. The article mentions strong public interest in astronomy and recommends an "Astronomical Calendar" for identifying celestial objects.

Rotation Counteracts Gravity?

This article discusses a controversial claim by two Japanese researchers, Hideo Hayasaka and Sakae Takeushi from Tokohu University, who assert that a rotating object loses weight if it spins clockwise. Their results, which showed a very small weight reduction (0.005% for a gyroscope rotating at 13,000 rpm), have generated both attention and skepticism. Critics point out that the results are "too good to be true," with measurements falling too neatly on a straight line. If true, the findings could necessitate revisions to gravitational laws. Experiments by other research groups are underway to verify these claims.

UFO-Sverige: Investigating UFOs

Mats Nilsson, chairman of UFO-Sverige, states that the organization aims to encourage established research into UFOs. UFO-Sverige, founded in 1970, has 25 local chapters and around 2000 members. They maintain a comprehensive database, conduct investigations, and publish the magazine "UFO-aktuellt." Nilsson explains that while many UFO reports have natural explanations (around 95-98%), the remaining unexplained cases are of primary interest. The organization meticulously analyzes reports, considering factors like the observer's credibility, the object's appearance, and any physical or psychological effects on the witness. They note that photographic evidence is less valuable if the observer is alone, as photos can be manipulated.

Psychological Consequences of UFO Experiences

The article includes an account of a woman in Skövde who experienced terrifying nightmares for three days after observing a light phenomenon. While the cause remained unexplained, the nightmares ceased after she discussed her experience. UFO-Sverige currently lacks resources to treat psychological trauma related to UFO experiences.

Why Report?

Mats Nilsson shares examples of UFO experiences, highlighting both unexplained cases and those with natural explanations. He recounts a case where a man reporting UFOs on Gotland turned out to have mistaken boat lanterns. Another report from Falun involved a ground-based object near a lake, later identified as a forest machine. Nilsson questions why people would report such experiences if they weren't true, given the potential negative consequences.

The Roswell Autopsy Film: A Hoax?

The article briefly mentions the Roswell autopsy film, released in recent years, which claims to show the autopsy of an alien. This film was shown on TV4 in Sweden and prompted UFO-Sverige's chairman, Clas Swahn, to comment on it.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO phenomena, presenting various reports, investigations, and scientific discussions. There's a clear emphasis on distinguishing between identified phenomena and truly unexplained sightings. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging scientific investigation while acknowledging the need for rigorous analysis and skepticism. The magazine also touches upon related scientific fields like anthropology and physics, suggesting a broader interest in unexplained phenomena and scientific frontiers. The recurring theme is the persistent mystery of UFOs and the ongoing efforts to understand them.

Title: Illustrerad Vetenskap
Issue: 20
Volume: 24
Date: Undetermined, likely 1995 based on content.
Publisher: Illustrerad Vetenskap
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0347-0055
Price: 20

Cover Story: Jo, det finns liv på Mars!

The cover story, authored by Thomas Pettersson, explores the compelling possibility of life, past or present, on Mars. Researchers are increasingly confident that life exists, not in the form of 'little green men,' but as enormous white worms. This theory is supported by the discovery of extremophile organisms on Earth that thrive beneath the ocean floor, producing black smoke. Scientists speculate that similar life forms may exist on Mars, particularly in subsurface hot springs, as Mars likely had water billions of years ago before freezing over.

The article highlights the ongoing research and upcoming conference at the Ciba Foundation in London, where scientists will discuss extraterrestrial life. It also mentions that particles from Mars may have traveled to Earth via meteorites, potentially seeding life here. The article notes that Mars's surface, once thought sterile, is now understood to potentially harbor life in its subsurface environments.

NASA's Mars Pathfinder mission, scheduled for launch in December, aims to land on Mars in July 1997 to search for evidence of life. This follows the unsuccessful Viking mission in 1975. Despite technological limitations in drilling deep into the Martian surface, the search for life continues.

Article: George Adamski, tefatskulten och Hitlers hemliga vapen

This article delves into the origins of the 'flying saucer' (tefat) phenomenon, largely attributed to George Adamski. Adamski claimed to have met a Venusian named Orthon in 1952, who arrived in a flying saucer. Adamski's subsequent books brought him worldwide fame, leading to a 'tefat cult' movement that attracted many followers and influenced popular culture, including Hollywood.

The article questions the authenticity of Adamski's claims, noting that the term 'UFO' itself implies an unidentified object, and once identified as a 'tefat,' it ceases to be unidentified. It also touches upon the psychologist Carl Gustav Jung's views, suggesting that Jung saw flying saucers as symbols of technological advancement and a modern substitute for metaphysical or religious beliefs, representing a 'savior from space.'

The article also briefly mentions a historical event in Ludvika, Sweden, on March 25th, related to a conference at ABF.

Article: Kratrar på minimåne förvånar forskarna

This piece discusses the surprising discovery of numerous craters on Phobos, the small moon of the asteroid Ida. Despite its small size (1.5 km in diameter), Phobos has over a dozen craters larger than 75 meters, with the largest being 300 meters. Astronomers are puzzled by this, as it suggests the moon is older than expected and its chemical composition does not match Ida's, ruling out it being a fragment of Ida from a collision. The prevailing theory is that both Ida and its moon originated from a larger asteroid that shattered long ago.

Article: Har det funnits en syndaflod?

This article explores the historical and geological basis for the biblical flood narrative. It suggests that the story likely has roots in ancient Mesopotamia, with strong parallels to the Sumerian-Babylonian epic of Gilgamesh. The article points to the Tigris and Euphrates rivers as the likely location of a catastrophic flood around 2900 BC, which may have destroyed the ancient city of Uruk. Such floods were interpreted as divine punishment.

Article: Varför är cirkeln uppdelad i 360 grader?

This short piece explains the origin of the 360-degree circle and the 60-minute hour. It traces these divisions back to the ancient Babylonians, who used a sexagesimal (base-60) number system. This system's influence persists in our modern measurements of time and location.

Article: Får vi mer än ljus från stjärnorna?

This article investigates cosmic rays, radiation originating from space that is distinct from visible light. It explains that while early discoveries of radioactivity hinted at unknown sources, it was physicist Franz Hess's balloon experiments in 1911 that confirmed radiation from the universe. Cosmic rays are primarily composed of hydrogen and helium nuclei traveling at near light speed, with occasional heavier atomic nuclei. Their exact origin is difficult to pinpoint due to deflection by the Milky Way's magnetic field, but they are believed to stem from exploding stars like supernovae and distant galaxies.

Article: Avgörande nytt om ödlornas massdöd

This section discusses new evidence supporting the asteroid impact theory for the extinction of dinosaurs. New measurements of a 180 km wide meteor crater in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, dated to approximately 65 million years ago, strengthen this hypothesis. Analysis of argon isotopes in the crater rock and studies of solidified rock formations (cliffs) that preserve the Earth's magnetic field from that era both align with the impact event.

Article: Klippor döljer 500 miljoner år gammalt vatten

Geologists in Texas have discovered ancient water droplets trapped within rock formations, dating back 500 million years. These droplets, though small, contain water with a salt content similar to modern oceans. Analysis of these ancient water samples is expected to provide insights into the chemical evolution of Earth's oceans and their interaction with the atmosphere over geological time.

Article: Nyfunna grott-målningar överraskar

This article reports on newly discovered cave paintings near Marseille, France, which are now estimated to be 18,000 years old, significantly older than initial estimates of 12,000 years. The caves, discovered by a diver, were submerged beneath the Mediterranean Sea, indicating that the sea level was much lower in the past. The paintings depict seals and penguin-like birds, providing early evidence of these species in the Mediterranean and suggesting a climate similar to Scandinavia during that period.

Article: Planet upptäckt kring annan stjärna

This article reports on the scientific discovery of a planet orbiting the star 51 Pegasi. This finding increases the probability of extraterrestrial life existing in environments similar to our own solar system. The article explains the method used to detect such planets indirectly by observing the star's movement. The newly discovered planet is half the size of Jupiter and orbits its star very closely, raising questions about how such a gas giant could exist so near a star without being consumed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of science, mystery, and the unknown. There's a clear interest in phenomena that challenge conventional understanding, from the possibility of extraterrestrial life on Mars and UFO sightings to ancient geological events and cosmic mysteries. The editorial stance appears to favor scientific investigation and evidence-based reasoning, while acknowledging and exploring popular fascination with unexplained phenomena. The inclusion of articles on archaeology, astronomy, and geology suggests a broad scientific scope, with a particular emphasis on topics that capture public imagination.