UFO-Nytt - 1996 No 2

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO NYTT
Issue: II
Volume: 1996
Publisher: Västerbergslagens UFO förening
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
Cover Headline: UFO NYTT
Cover Description: A teal magazine cover with a black rectangle at the top containing the title 'UFO NYTT'. Below is a black circle depicting a map of an island with a UFO hovering over it and stars scattered across the land. At the bottom, an illustration of a figure with Egyptian-style headdress and crossed arms, with text in Swedish on either side.

Editorial Content

Foreword (FÖRORD)

The foreword, written by Gudrun Andersson, reflects on the history of the Västerbergslagens UFO-förening, which started in 1976 with five women and one man. She recounts the early days, the merger with the Ludvika UFO-förening founded by Juan Manzanares, and the 20 years of existence. Andersson highlights the importance of a critical and educated approach, crediting Johan Kinneryd for fostering this. She acknowledges the fun and camaraderie within the group, despite occasional disagreements on UFO theories. A current challenge is the difficulty in finding new members for the board and working groups, expressing a need for younger, curious individuals to take over the organization's activities. She thanks several individuals who have supported her work over the years.

Editorial Notes and Membership Information

This section provides practical information for members. The magazine is published four times a year. The annual fee for 1996 is 100 SEK for adults and 35 SEK for those under 16. Contact information for Västerbergslagens UFO-förening, including a postal address (BOX 99, SMEDJEBACKEN, 77722) and telephone number (0240/79135), is provided. Upcoming 'Obs kvällar' (observation evenings) are scheduled for May 11th and June 2nd, with the latter concluding the season with a barbecue. Gudrun is mentioned as the contact person for those interested in joining.

Article: 'Vad är UFO?' (What is UFO?)

This article, written by Gudrun Andersson of Västerbergslagens UFO-förening, critiques Paul Hellberg, a personality from Radio Dalarna, for his views on UFOs. Andersson argues that Hellberg's claims about UFOs flying over Falun and Dalarna, and seeing 'space junk' falling in zigzags, are not based on serious research. She states that her organization has repeatedly pointed out that Hellberg does not conduct serious UFO research, and that his 'UFO observations' might be misinterpretations, possibly of balloons or even planets. The article criticizes the use of 'desk work' and emphasizes that the organization has experience building and flying balloons, understanding their behavior. It calls for Radio Dalarna to employ more qualified individuals for their reports and suggests that the public prefers facts over myths and cults. The article reiterates the organization's open-minded approach to UFOs, stating that time will reveal the truth.

Response: 'Avundsjuka, Gudrun' (Envious, Gudrun)

This is a response from Paul Hellberg to Gudrun Andersson's article. Hellberg defends his approach, stating that understanding UFOs requires serious and intensive field research, which he claims his group has been doing for years. He dismisses Andersson's methods, suggesting she continue building homemade balloons. Hellberg asserts that a UFO is an unidentified flying object, and once identified, it is no longer a UFO. He recounts an incident on January 2, 1996, where he commented on a possible UFO over Falun for Radio Dalarna, explaining that UFOs can be extraterrestrial, terrestrial, or human-made, without specifying which type. He criticizes Andersson's 'monopolistic thinking' and 'uninitiated attacks,' calling it envy. Hellberg concludes by stating that his group has no preconceived notions about UFOs and is focused on the question of their origin.

Article: 'Undersökningsgruppen' (Investigation Group)

This section details recent activities and observations from the investigation group. Many calls received were about Venus, with most callers being positive and seeking explanations. Observers have been monitoring the sky, and many were relieved to understand their misinterpretations. The article mentions the newly discovered comet Hyakutake, expected to be visible from March 21st, located east of Arcturus. A specific report from Tällberg on February 13, 1996, describes an unusual, large, blinking star-like object with multi-colored lights that moved about two meters in half an hour. A follow-up observation two nights later showed the object in a similar position, but the blinking had stopped, and it moved further east over a 12-meter-long roof.

Article: 'Ufo-spaning räcker inte, Hellberg' (UFO Spotting Isn't Enough, Hellberg)

This article, attributed to Gudrun Andersson of Västerbergslagens UFO-förening, criticizes Paul Hellberg and his group, 'UFO-luftrumsbevakning.' Andersson argues that Hellberg's claims of having extensive military contacts and his methods of UFO investigation (e.g., observing from a hill) are insufficient, comparing it to a chemist discovering the smallest particle by studying pea soup at home. She emphasizes that understanding the UFO puzzle requires more than just night observations and sophisticated equipment like home video cameras. The article also questions the role of Radio Dalarna in promoting Hellberg's speculative theories over factual reporting, noting that the station last contacted them in 1985. Andersson concludes that true UFOs are those phenomena that remain unexplained even after intense investigation, implying that Hellberg's identified objects are not the true UFO mystery.

Article: 'Hessdalen' (Continuation from previous issue)

This article continues the report on the Hessdalen phenomenon. It details a project conducted in the winter of 1984 (January 21 - February 26) where a caravan equipped with instruments was stationed in Hessdalen, Norway. The project aimed to analyze light spectra, heat radiation, electromagnetic radiation, magnetism, radar reflections, and radioactivity associated with the phenomenon. Forty volunteers participated over six weeks, resulting in 188 observations, 53 of which were classified as 'Hessdalen phenomena.' The article mentions that the findings were published in English by Erling Strand in 1985. Instruments detected objects with clear courses, some moving at speeds up to 30,000 km/h, and recorded electromagnetic frequencies. A second field action took place from January 14-28, 1985, with participants from Norway, Sweden, and Finland, but poor weather limited observations. The article notes that Professor J. Allen Hynek visited Hessdalen in February 1985 and took on the task of starting a support group and writing articles, but unfortunately fell ill and passed away in April 1986.

Hessdalen Project: 1985-1993

Following the initial projects, there was a need to inform scientists about the Hessdalen phenomena to gain serious consideration. The project had been largely dismissed by the media as simply 'UFO.' An intensive information campaign was launched, involving lectures and presentations by project members like Erling Strand, Odd-Gunnar Röed, and Leif Havik at various organizations, schools, and conferences both domestically and internationally. These included events in Budapest (1990), Moscow (1992), Salzburg (1993), Glasgow (1994), and a workshop in Hessdalen itself in 1994. Other conferences mentioned took place in Yorkshire (1986), London (1987), Sheffield (1991), and Lyon (1993). The article also notes that the Hessdalen phenomena have been discussed with researchers and featured in publications like 'Mysteries' (France, May 1993), 'Mas ALLA' (Spain, December 1993), and 'PHYSICS-USPE Khi' (Russia, 1994).

News from Hessdalen

This section includes a photograph of Erling Strand at Hessdalen, holding what is described as the new project. The caption indicates he is on-site with the new project.

Comic Strip: Hagbard

A comic strip titled 'Hagbard' by Chris Browne is included, featuring a humorous dialogue about a father's past.

Article: 'Tittade efter meteoritsskur och fick se cigarrer.' (Looked for meteor shower and saw cigars.)

This article, from the Danish SUFOI, describes an observation made in August 1995 during the Perseid meteor shower. Kim and Susi, lying on their terrace, witnessed an elongated, mahogany-colored phenomenon moving from east to west between 11:30 PM and midnight. It disappeared as if switched off. The object was described as shorter than a cigar and orange-brown, not self-luminous but reflecting another light source. The phenomenon reappeared, with two objects this time, moving parallel to the first. One of the objects made small sways. A week later, they contacted SUFOI. The observers were described as credible and precise. The objects moved quickly, and reconstruction suggested an observation time of 7-8 seconds. Their size was estimated at 12 mm with an outstretched arm, slightly larger than the moon. The observers, living in a residential area with no industrial activity nearby, maintained that the objects were not self-luminous. The article notes a slight difference in the shape description between Kim and Susi, and a minor variation in color.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of UFO NYTT include the investigation of unexplained aerial phenomena, particularly the Hessdalen case, which is covered in detail. There is a strong emphasis on critical thinking and scientific methodology in UFO research, as evidenced by the critique of Paul Hellberg's approach and the promotion of rigorous investigation. The magazine also highlights the importance of member participation and the challenges faced by UFO organizations in maintaining activity and attracting new members. The editorial stance is one of open-mindedness, encouraging members to seek factual explanations while acknowledging that some phenomena remain unexplained. The publication aims to inform its readers about ongoing research, debates within the UFO community, and significant sightings, fostering a sense of shared inquiry.

This issue of NYA RÖN, dated 1995, delves into a variety of intriguing topics ranging from astronomical mysteries to UFO phenomena and ancient civilizations. The magazine features articles on the enigmatic Tunguska comet event, astronomical facts, celestial events, ancient astronomical practices, and UFO reports.

The Tunguska Comet Mystery

The lead article, "Ny mystik kring Tunguskakometen" (New Mystery Around the Tunguska Comet), revisits the 1908 event where a comet fragment impacted in Siberia. The explosion was immense, equivalent to 650 Hiroshima bombs, flattening a vast area and being heard hundreds of kilometers away. However, subsequent expeditions found no trace of the meteorite. The article discusses the theory that the explosion, occurring at an altitude of eight kilometers, disintegrated the meteorite into dust that was then dispersed into the stratosphere. Researchers have looked for evidence in Greenland's ice sheet, which preserves atmospheric traces from millennia. A Danish research group analyzed an ice core from around 1908 and was surprised to find no increased concentration of iridium, a common element in meteorites. One proposed solution is that the comet contained more ice, gas, and organic matter than previously assumed, leaving fewer solid remnants.

Astronomical Facts and Events

Under the section "LITE ASTRONOMI" (A Little Astronomy), the magazine provides several interesting facts. It defines a light-year as the distance light travels in a year, approximately 9.5 trillion kilometers. It lists the distances of various stars from Earth in light-years, such as Proxima Centauri at 4.2 light-years. The article "Vad vet du om PLUTOS vikt?" (What do you know about Pluto's weight?) explains that while early estimates suggested Pluto's mass was similar to Earth's, the discovery of its moon Charon in 1978 revealed Pluto's mass to be only a fraction of Earth's. "Solfläckar" (Sunspots) describes these as cooler, darker areas on the sun's surface. The text also notes that Earth is furthest from the sun on July 5th, marking summer in the Northern Hemisphere and winter in the Southern.

Several upcoming astronomical events are detailed: The Perseid meteor shower on August 12th, with up to 20 meteors per hour, originating from Comet Swift-Tuttle. The autumn equinox on September 22nd. A total lunar eclipse on the night of September 27-28, with totality occurring between 4:19 and 5:29 AM. The next lunar eclipse is on March 24, 1997. A solar eclipse on October 12th, visible from all of Sweden, with the peak around 4:00 PM. The next solar eclipse visible in Sweden is not until October 16, 2126. Daylight saving time ends on October 27th. The Leonids meteor shower occurs around November 17-18, originating from the constellation Leo. The Geminids meteor shower is expected on December 13-14, linked to the small planet Phaeton. The Quadrantids meteor shower is predicted for January 3-4, 1996-1997, from the constellation Boötes.

Ancient Astronomical Observatories

An article titled "Ett av naturens mysterier löst: ETT STRÅLANDE MÖNSTER!" (One of Nature's Mysteries Solved: A Shining Monster!) discusses the discovery of ancient solar observatories in the deserts of Arizona and New Mexico. These sites, used by Native American peoples between 800 and 1450 AD, consist of carvings and symbols in caves that align with sunlight at specific times of the year, particularly solstices and equinoxes. These findings suggest a more advanced civilization than previously believed. American space researcher Dr. Robert Preston identified 14 such observatories, indicating a common calendar and timekeeping system among these ancient peoples.

UFO Reports from Denmark

The section "DANSKA UFORAPPORTER" (Danish UFO Reports) details a significant increase in UFO observations in Denmark during 1995, with 207 reports received by SUFOI between June and November. A notable incident occurred on September 29, 1995, near Give and Vejle, where a man's car experienced a complete electrical failure and a silent, disc-shaped object with circular lamps hovered above it. This event, along with others, prompted SUFOI to launch a thorough investigation. The article also mentions that media interest, including a TV 2 appearance by SUFOI on October 18, 1995, contributed to the rise in reports, with October alone seeing 52 observations.

A Prehistoric Cave Story

"GROTTSAGAN" (The Cave Saga) presents a narrative about a prehistoric cave-dwelling community. It tells the story of a boy named Stråle, born with unusual light skin and hair, who was perceived as different. The story recounts an event where a large, luminous, silent "sun-round sphere" descended from the sky and took Stråle and his mother into the sphere before disappearing. The cave dwellers, deeply affected by this event, etched the image of the sphere into the cave walls and continued to commemorate it annually. The narrative questions whether this is a saga, myth, or a UFO event.

UFO Theories and Biblical Parallels

"UFO-teorier - SPEKULATIONER - SANNING - KULT" (UFO Theories - Speculations - Truth - Cult) explores the nature of UFO observations and their descriptions. The author suggests that people often struggle to describe phenomena outside their normal experience, leading to varied and sometimes imprecise reports. The article draws parallels between UFO accounts and biblical narratives, particularly the prophecies of Ezekiel, questioning if these biblical figures witnessed similar phenomena. It posits that the Bible might contain accounts of visits from higher powers, not necessarily in the context of organized religion, but as a source of wisdom and guidance. The author speculates on the origins of human spiritual seeking, referencing ancient structures like pyramids and temples, and questions why humanity has historically looked upwards. The piece concludes by pondering whether humanity has truly improved over the last 2000 years, given the existence of various societal structures and the potential for higher intelligences to influence lower ones.

Comet Tails and Supernovas

"Riktas kometers svansar alltid bort från solen?" (Are Comet Tails Always Pointed Away From the Sun?) explains that comet tails are formed by solar wind and light pushing gas and dust away from the comet's nucleus, thus always pointing away from the sun. It distinguishes between a gas tail, created by solar wind, and a dust tail, affected by solar radiation pressure, which is often curved. The article notes that comet tails can be as long as the distance from Earth to the sun (about 150 million kilometers).

"Nu ser man explosion för sex miljarder år sedan" (Now We See an Explosion from Six Billion Years Ago) reports on the observation of a distant supernova, a star explosion, by an international group of astronomers using a large telescope in Chile. The light from this explosion, which occurred six billion years ago, before the formation of our solar system, was visible for only about two months. The supernova's light also helped astronomers estimate the distance to its galaxy, which is moving away from us at a significant fraction of the speed of light, aiding in the calculation of the universe's age.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of NYA RÖN demonstrates a consistent interest in unexplained phenomena, astronomical events, and historical mysteries. The magazine appears to present a platform for exploring various theories and reports, encouraging readers to consider different perspectives, from scientific explanations to more speculative interpretations involving ancient history and potential extraterrestrial contact. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, presenting information and posing questions rather than offering definitive answers, particularly in the sections discussing UFOs and the nature of belief.

Title: Illustrerad Vetenskap
Issue: 10/94
Date: October 1994 (inferred from issue number)
Language: Swedish

This issue of Illustrerad Vetenskap covers a diverse range of topics, from archaeological discoveries and historical mysteries to parapsychological phenomena and astronomical observations.

Editorial: Criticism of Unsubstantiated Claims

The editorial section addresses reactions to previous writings, emphasizing the importance of reliable sources. It criticizes individuals who present themselves as authorities on unexplained phenomena without providing factual evidence, suggesting this may be an attempt to protect their 'customer base.' The authors urge readers to be critical of those who write books and produce media based on unsubstantiated claims, noting that while the claims themselves might not be wrong, presenting them as fact without proof is problematic.

Archaeology and History

The Drought That Wiped Out the Maya People

A research group from the University of Florida proposes that a lack of rain was the cause of the Maya civilization's demise. Analysis of sediment from the bottom of Chichancanabsjön in Mexico suggests that the climate was unusually dry between 800-1000 AD, coinciding with the period when the Maya culture vanished. The lakebed's layers of chalk and gypsum provide clues about past climate conditions.

Romans Cursed Their Enemies

During excavations in the Israeli city of Caesarea Maritima, fifty curse tablets were discovered in a well. These lead tablets, dating from the 1st century AD, were inscribed by Roman citizens with the names of their enemies. The tablets were then thrown into the well in the hope that underworld gods or spirits would carry out the curses. This practice is compared to the Athenian tradition of ostracism, where citizens could vote to exile another by writing their name on a pottery shard.

Have We Seen a Meteor Hit the Moon?

While the Moon is heavily cratered, there are few recent documented sightings of meteor impacts. However, a handwritten account from 1178 suggests that five English monks may have witnessed a significant meteor impact on the Moon. The account was recorded by monk Gervase of Canterbury, whose chronicles are considered reliable historical sources. The article notes that it takes an estimated 100,000 years for new large craters to form on the Moon.

The Struggle Over Noah's Ark

Archaeologists are divided over the discovery of what might be the remains of Noah's Ark in Turkey. An American research team found a boat-like rock formation 27 kilometers south of Mount Ararat, near the border with Armenia and Iran. Skeptics argue that the formation is made of stone. While the formation is 157 meters long, matching the biblical description of 300 cubits, its width of 42 meters is debated against the biblical 20 cubits. Local place names, such as one translating to 'crow's landing,' and an area called 'the eight's domain,' are cited as potential supporting evidence.

Astronomy and Geology

Are Meteors Falling to Earth from the Moon?

It is considered likely that some meteors found on Earth originate from the Moon or Mars. Several meteors found on the South Pole's ice are believed to possibly stem from these celestial bodies. The South Pole is a prime location for meteor hunting because the ice is constantly moving towards the coast, burying meteors, which are then exposed over thousands of years by wind erosion. In January 1982, a significant find included a meteor containing anorthosite, a rock type found in lunar mountains.

Younger Meteors Suggest Planetary Origin

Analysis of radioactive elements in some meteors, including one found at the South Pole, indicates an age of only about 1.3 billion years. This is significantly younger than most other meteors, which are around 4.5 billion years old, consistent with the age of the solar system. The younger age suggests these meteors may originate from a planet. The Moon is considered less likely due to its chemical composition and lack of geological activity for the past 3 billion years.

Parapsychology and the Unexplained

Researchers Seek to Explain the Unexplainable

Parapsychology is presented as the scientific study of phenomena that appear to defy conventional explanation, such as premonitions, clairvoyance, telepathy, and psychokinesis. The article notes the difficulty in scientifically measuring these experiences but highlights the persistence of parapsychologists.

#### Telepathy Tests

Telepathy, or thought transference, is a common experience. Experiments have involved one person looking at a picture while another tries to guess its content. Surprisingly, participants often perform better than chance. Even telepathy with sleeping individuals has been tested, with subjects sometimes reporting dreams that match the viewed images, as demonstrated in studies by sleep and dream researcher Montague Ullman.

#### Supernatural Peeking (Psychokinesis)

Psychokinesis is the ability to influence physical objects with the mind. One laboratory experiment involved a psychic influencing a random number generator to produce more 'ones' than 'zeros.' This raised questions about whether the psychic could 'peek' at the generator's output, suggesting a form of clairvoyance. Other phenomena include objects moving on their own, lights flickering, and unexplained noises. A notable case involved a 19-year-old girl, Annemarie, whose presence at a lawyer's office in Bavaria coincided with poltergeist-like activity, which ceased when she left.

#### Ghosts and Poltergeists

These phenomena often occur around individuals experiencing puberty or psychological crises. The article recounts a personal experience of objects moving inexplicably in a shared apartment, attributed by the partner to his deceased mother, referred to as a 'ghost mother-in-law.'

#### Healing and Future Prediction

Healing through touch is discussed as a form of unexplained influence, often attributed to the patient's belief and the healer's suggestion. However, the healer Matthew Manning has demonstrated the ability to heal mice and increase enzyme activity under controlled conditions. The ability to predict the future is also explored, with some mediums claiming this power and ordinary people experiencing premonitions or 'true dreams.' A study after a mining accident in Aberfan, Wales, found that many people had experienced premonitions beforehand, even those not living near the affected area.

Personal Account: A Man's Silhouette in the Cloud

A personal narrative describes an experience in a guest house where a grey-brown whirlwind-like phenomenon appeared in the room. The narrator felt a heavy pressure on their chest and saw the silhouette of a man within the cloud. The phenomenon then moved towards a fireplace, and a transistor radio inexplicably turned on and could not be switched off.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue consistently explores the boundaries between the known and the unknown, presenting scientific investigations into phenomena that challenge conventional understanding. The editorial stance, as expressed in the opening section, is one of caution and a demand for empirical evidence when discussing extraordinary claims. The magazine encourages critical thinking and skepticism towards unsubstantiated narratives, while still acknowledging the existence of unexplained phenomena and the ongoing efforts of researchers to understand them. Themes of ancient civilizations, celestial events, and the human mind's potential are recurring throughout the articles.